Insider Tips for a Family Adventure in Kauai

1. Baby Beach: A small, secluded beach located on the south shore in Poipu. Known for its shallow, calm waters, it’s an ideal spot for families with young children. Insider tip: go during low tide.

2. Hanalei Bay: Known for its turquoise blue water in the summer. It’s my favorite place to swim on the island. Insider tip: There are little parking areas every few blocks of Weke Rd.

3. Polihale Beach: Located on the west side of the island, it has miles and miles of powdery white sand, and often, you will be the only one there. It’s down a bumpy dirt road, so an SUV or jeep is ideal.

4. Sunset boat tour: Take an epic sunset tour of the Napali Coast with Captain Andy. Such a memorable experience.

5. Kayak and hike on Wailua River: Fun little adventure. Kayak on the Wailua River and hike to Secret Falls. Hike is easy, so it’s good for young children.

6. Hike the Kaulalu trail and swim at Ke’e Beach: Requires a reservation to visit. The hike is great and has stunning views, but I wouldn’t call it easy. There is a beach just two miles in and a waterfall at the four-mile mark. When you’re done, swim at Ke’e Beach.

7. Maha'ulepu Heritage Hike: An easy hike along the coast and has gorgeous views. Great for kids. The entrance is to the left of the Hyatt, right by Shipwrecks Beach.

8. Poipu Beach Park: It can be crowded, but it has good snorkeling, and there are almost always turtles or monk seals beached on the sand.

9. Spouting Horn: Natural blowhole where water shoots up through a lava tube as high as 50 feet in the air. Sometimes, you will hear a hiss, which legend says is the ancient lizard Kaikapu.

Breakfast

• Kalaheo Cafe: This is a “must-visit” local eatery known for its hearty breakfast options, such as macadamia nut pancakes, omelets and cinnamon rolls. It’s a little out of the way, but trust me, it’s worth the drive.

• Holo Holo Grill: Poolside grill located at Koloa Landing Resort. It’s a true hidden gem with yummy breakfast options. Eggs Benedict is my fave.

• Eden Coffee: Local coffee truck, friendly staff and tasty lattes.

Lunch & dinner

• Mucho Aloha: Cool location in Koloa under the Monkey Pod trees, good micro beers and food like tacos and nachos.

• Dukes is always our first stop after we land. We love the open-air and ocean views in front of Kalapaki Beach.

• Bubba’s: Great burgers. Fast casual spot with locations in Poipu and Kapaa.

• Beach House: Splurge and go for dinner, or go for cocktails and watch an epic sunset. It’s the perfect spot for family or engagement pics.

• Koloa Pizza Kitchen: Awesome pizza in the heart of Koloa Town.

• Tropical Taco: Crispy tacos, freshly made tortilla chips in Hanalei. So good.

Dessert

• Lapperts: Tasty Hawaiian-made ice cream. There’s always a long line, but it’s worth the wait.