Aloha Adventure: 10 Days in Hawaii

Travel to Kauai, pick up your rental car, and head to Princeville. We didn’t spend much time in Princeville because of where we stayed, but looking back, I wish we had spent a few days in this area to explore before moving to a different hotel. Princeville is beautiful and relaxing, with its own lively downtown area. Staying elsewhere on the island often means a longer commute to this part of Kauai.

Depending on your arrival time and energy level, you may want to opt for a hike in Wailua Homesteads Park, making sure to stop along the way to snap photos of the many waterfalls.

If you’re too tired from traveling to hit the trails, head to your accommodations and get settled in. Once you’ve unpacked, go out for dinner and catch the sunset. Happy Talk Lounge is a great spot to grab a bite while soaking in the incredible views.

Today is the perfect day to explore Kauai’s beaches—both the well-known spots and the hidden gems—but start the morning with a delicious breakfast first. Grab a bite at Nourish and take in the views before heading out for the day.

I recommend starting early, as parking in Princeville is limited. Begin at Hideaways Beach (if you’re staying at 1 Hotel Hanalei, it’s just down the cliff). Otherwise, you’ll need to drive and park nearby. The trail down is steep, muddy, and can be slippery, so be sure to wear appropriate shoes and bring water and snorkel gear—you’ll want to experience everything this beach has to offer.

After snorkeling and relaxing at Hideaways, head to Queen’s Bath (if it’s open), or stop by Anini Beach, known for its calm, shallow waters and excellent snorkeling. Finish the beach tour at Secret Beach, also known as Kauapea Beach. Parking here can be tricky, so arriving early is key. If you’re staying at 1 Hotel Hanalei, you could also reverse this order and start your morning at Secret Beach instead.

After a full morning of beach time and snorkeling, grab lunch at Java Kai or the Kilauea Fish Market, then make your way to the Kilauea Lighthouse (advance tickets are required). Beyond its beauty, the lighthouse is also a fantastic spot for birdwatching if that interests you.

Finally, head back to the hotel to unwind and freshen up before enjoying a delicious dinner at Tahiti Nui or The Hanalei Dolphin.

Today can be a slower-paced day after the activity-packed itinerary yesterday. Sleep in, revisit any beaches you may have missed, or—if you managed to see them all—check out Tunnels Beach or walk to Puu Poa Beach for a peaceful morning snorkel. Grab breakfast at Java Kai or North Shore Bowls before heading out.

This is also a great day to book a helicopter tour. While we didn’t personally do this, it’s one of Kauai’s most beloved experiences and offers an unforgettable perspective of the island.

If helicopters aren’t your thing, consider kayaking down the Hanalei River instead. There are excellent tours led by knowledgeable locals that make for a memorable experience. After kayaking, spend some time exploring historic Hanalei Town and enjoy a meal at Kalypso Island Bar and Grill, or any other delicious restaurant.

Your time in Princeville has come to an end, and it’s time to head to the other side of Kauai. Grab breakfast and hit the road! If you’re up for one last adventure before leaving the North Shore, consider hiking the Kalalau Trail. The full trail spans 10 miles along the Nā Pali Coast, but even a short hike rewards you with incredible views.

Be sure to stop at the Hanalei Valley Lookout to snap a photo and take in the scenery before continuing south. The drive to Poipu Beach takes about an hour, and along the way you can stop at Wailua Homesteads Park or enjoy the scenic drive through the Tree Tunnel in Koloa.

Once you’ve checked in, spend the afternoon however you’re feeling—relax at Poipu or Shipwreck Beach, browse the shops at Kukuiʻula, or explore Poipu Shopping Village. End the day with a memorable dinner at Tidepools, then turn in early to rest up for the days ahead.

Today is an adventure day—and an especially good one. Grab breakfast and pack a snack for later before heading to Waimea Canyon State Park, often called the Grand Canyon of the Pacific. While it’s not as large or as old as the Grand Canyon in Arizona, it’s no less breathtaking. There are plenty of scenic pull-offs and viewpoints along the way, so even if hiking isn’t your thing, you’ll still be able to fully take in the beauty.

I highly recommend stopping at the Red Dirt Waterfall. It’s right along the roadside and easy to miss, but well worth the stop. Be sure to wear clothes and shoes, you don’t mind getting stained, as the red dirt can be messy.

We chose to hike the Awaʻawapuhi Trail, which led to a stunning overlook of the Nā Pali Coast. The trail is well-maintained, moderately challenging, and about six miles round-trip. The payoff at the end is absolutely worth it, though if you’re afraid of heights, the final viewpoint can be a bit nerve-wracking.

After hiking, stopping at overlooks, and snapping photos along the way, grab lunch at Kōkeʻe Lodge within Waimea Canyon State Park. Then head back to your hotel to relax and freshen up before watching the sunset over dinner at the Beach House Restaurant.

Get ready for your last full day in Kauai—and possibly the most fun. Grab breakfast and head to Kauai Backcountry Adventures for a tubing experience through gently flowing waters. The tunnels and flumes were engineered and hand-dug in the 1870s, and were once used to irrigate sugar crops. Today, the plantation, tunnels, and surrounding land are preserved and no longer in production.

The tour provides everything you need, including a tube, helmet, headlamp, and snacks and water. You will get wet, so plan accordingly. Wear a swimsuit or clothes you don’t mind getting wet, bring a change of clothes for afterward, and consider water shoes (available to rent on-site). It’s truly a 10/10 experience.

After tubing, head back to the hotel to freshen up before your sunset cruise along the Nā Pali Coast with Holo Holo Charters. This was an incredible experience—the staff were friendly, knowledgeable, and surprisingly great photographers. The food and drinks were excellent, the views were unbeatable, and we were even lucky enough to spot dolphins and whales. It’s the perfect way to end your time in Kauai.

Today you’re headed to Maui, but if you have time before your flight, consider hiking the Sleeping Giant Trail. Local legend tells of a giant who indulged a little too much at a party held in his honor, lay down to rest, and never woke up. From a distance, the mountain resembles a sleeping figure. We absolutely loved this hike, and it was especially beautiful at sunrise.

After the hike, head to the airport and fly to Maui. Once you arrive and pick up your rental car, stop by Paia Fish Market for a quick yet reliably delicious meal before heading to your hotel. Turn in early and try to plan ahead for the next day by picking up snacks or lunch for your mini road trip.

Today is a big driving day and not for the faint of heart—or for those who get carsick or feel nervous on narrow, winding roads. The Road to Hana is approximately 64 miles long, with over 600 curves and more than 50 one-lane bridges, so be sure to start early, take your time, and stay attentive. You can choose to drive the entire route or explore just a portion of it. Be sure to fill up on gas beforehand, as stations are few and far between.

While it may sound intimidating, the Road to Hana is well worth it. Along the way, you’ll find black sand beaches, lush rainforests, hiking trails, blowholes, and famous banana bread stands. If you’re in the mood for a hike, consider the Waiheʻe Ridge Trail. It’s steep and can be muddy, but the views are absolutely incredible. After your hike, continue along the Road to Hana or turn back and grab lunch at Tin Roof.

Spend the afternoon snorkeling or exploring the historic town of Lahaina, including a visit to the iconic Banyan Tree. End the day with dinner at Star Noodle, then head to bed early to rest up for the next adventure.

You’ll wake up even earlier than the day before to head to Haleakalā for sunrise above the clouds. A reservation or permit is required, but it’s truly an unforgettable experience. Another popular option is to take a guided tour bus to the summit and bike down afterward. We chose to hike a portion of the Sliding Sands Trail, an iconic trek into the volcanic crater that feels almost Martian in landscape. The full hike takes an entire day, so we completed just a section of it. If you’re not a morning person, Haleakalā is also stunning at sunset.

Afterward, stop by Maui Brewing Co. for lunch and a local beer, then return to your hotel for ocean-view massages and a relaxing afternoon lounging by the pool or beach.

Since this is your last night in Hawaii, end the trip on a high note. Celebrate with a luau, or enjoy a memorable dinner at Merriman’s, Lineage, or the iconic Mama’s Fish House.

Today is a bittersweet day, so take the time to savor every moment before heading home. Enjoy a sunrise walk along the beach, indulge in one last massage, and grab breakfast—or a delicious pie—from Leoda’s Kitchen and Pie Shop. Fit in some final shopping in Lahaina and don’t forget to treat yourself to a Dole Whip before making your way to the airport.