For those of you traveling with young Keiki (children), Kauai is an extremely kid-friendly island. From the beaches to the mountains there is fun to be had at every age. If you’re lucky enough to find yourself in Poipu, we’ve put together a collection of the best kid-friendly activities that the whole family will enjoy!
BABIES – TODDLERS:
Coastal Stroll – Beginning at Shipwrecks Beach is a winding walking path that stretches from the Hyatt Resort & Spa and up towards Poipu Beach Park. The walk consists of a mild to moderate trail with both paved and unpaved paths, and (of course) incredible coastal views. The entire pathway loops back to Shipwrecks if you’re feeling ambitious!
Spouting Horn – Make lasting memories at the iconic Spouting Horn blowhole, located across the street from Allerton Botanical Gardens. Legend has it a giant lizard is stuck beneath the lava shelf and as she roars her breath sprays up and out of the lava tube. Depending on the day, the blowhole can shoot hundreds of feet high! Authentic souvenirs are also available the Spouting Horn shops.
Kauai Culinary Farmer’s Market – Every Wednesday from 3:30 pm – 6:00 pm visitors can enjoy the culinary market at The Shops at Kukuiula. Bring the kids down to enjoy live music, delicious food and get a feel for the local flavor!
PRE-TEEN:
Take a tour of the Koloa History Center– a free outdoor exhibit showcasing Kauai’s sugar plantation days. Then walk through quaint Old Koloa Town, where Hawaii’s first successful sugar plantation came into being.
Nukumoi Surf Co. – Gear up and hit the water! Nukumoi Surf Co. has just about every beach necessity from fins and snorkels to masks and surfboards. Head across the street to Brennecke’s Beach where you are guaranteed to see some Honu (green sea turtle).
Mahaulepu Heritage Trail & Makauwahi Cave Tours – Down an island style dirt road past the Grand Hyatt Resort & Spa guests will find the quiet Mahaulepu Beach. Along the scenic coastline is a trail that spans a few miles in either direction. Located at the beginning of the trail is the Makauwahi Sinkhole, where Hawaii’s largest limestone cave can be found. Learn about ancient rituals, fossils and what Kauai was like thousands of years ago. See their website for daily tour information.
Helicopter Tours – See the craggy mountainsides and vibrant greens of the Na Pali Coast from high above. Enjoy sights of majestic waterfalls, pristine coastline and magnificent cliffs.
TEENAGER:
Surf Lessons – These folks are the best in the business. Located to the left of the Sheraton Hotel, Kauai Surf School is a group of passionate and local instructors who are known for their friendly and helpful attitudes. Paddling out has never been so fun!
Kauai ATV – Enjoy a day of guided all terrain vehicles winding around waterfalls, movie sites, jungle landscapes, and a 1/2 mile tunnel through the Ha’upu mountain range. A fantastic behind-the-scenes look at the land.
Koloa Bass Fishing – Families can enjoy a fun activity hidden away from crowds, at the Waita Reservoir. Here is the largest inland body of fresh water in the state of Hawaii. This secluded hideaway is ideal for sightseeing and recreational activities. Enjoy our bass boat or Sun Tracker in this tropical paradise with catch & release fishing.
Na Pali Boat Trip – Seeing Kauai from the ocean is truly unlike anything you’ve ever experienced. The dramatic coastline and intense natural colors are sure to leave you speechless. A few of our favorite charter companies consist of Holo Holo Charters, Captain Andy’s, Blue Dolphin Charters and Kauai Sea Tours. If you’re on Kauai during whale season (link) then prepare for a real treat as these guides know the migration paths like the back of their hand.
Ziplining – The happy medium between skydiving and a helicopter tour, Ziplining is sure to get your heart racing. Choose from one of these amazing companies who offer beautiful back mountain views high above lush canopies, jungles and rivers: Outfitters Kauai, Koloa Zipline, Skyline EcoAdventures. Outfitters Kauai also specializes in bike tours, a second fast-paced alternative for thrill seekers.
ALL AGES AROUND THE ISLAND:
Allerton Garden – Home to the famous “Jurassic Park tree” Allerton Gardens is a great place to bring the family. Complete with a walking tour of the fruitful grounds, this garden is home to a number of exotic species found only on Kauai. Cross their signature bridge over a babbling river and be sure to snap a photo of the picture-perfect beach.
Ride the Aloha Spirit Trolley – With its signature thatched roof and green coat of paint, the festive Aloha Spirit Trolley can be seen giving visitors free rides around Poipu everyday. The perfect way to get a lay of the land in a relaxed environment. Be sure to smile and wave as you pass The Shops at Kukuiula!
Kayak Wailua River – Meet in the middle (between Poipu and Hanalei) to enjoy the beautiful stretch of Wailua River. Enjoy a guided tour up river towards the mountains and Fern Grotto or take it further and include a hike to secret waterfalls.
Koke’e State Park Discovery Center – High up in the dewy mountains of Koke’e is the Koke’e Museum. This also acts as the Discovery Center for children and visitors. Learn about the local flora and fauna, weather patterns and what makes Koke’e so unique to Hawaii.
Kilohana Train Hike and Orchard Tour – All aboard! Located on the beautiful Kilohana grounds, the Kilohana Train Hike and Orchard Tour offers an interactive way to explore the island. Guests can ride the train, hike in the rainforest
and enjoy a gourmet picnic. In addition to disembarking and spending some time with the pigs, goats, sheep, cattle and horses. For more information about adult-themed rides ask about their Happy Hour Luau Express Train!
Historic Hanapepe Art Night – Every Friday night from 6-9pm head west to Historic Hanapepe Town where you will find their weekly Art Night. The quaint main street is lined with local artists, food trucks and live music. Stop by the famous Hanapepe Swinging Bridge for an extra element of fun.