Getting There

Lihue Airport (LIH) is the main airport on Kauai, with direct flights from major U.S. cities.

The duration of flights to Kauai depends on the departure city and whether the flight is direct or includes layovers. Some estimated flight times from major cities to Kauai:

• Los Angeles: Around 5-6 hours
• San Francisco: Around 5-6 hours
• Seattle: Around 6-7 hours

Direct Flights to Kauai

For those who prefer direct flights, the following airports offer non-stop service to Lihue Airport 

• Los Angeles International Airport (LAX)
• San Francisco International Airport (SFO)
• Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA)
• Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX)
• Denver International Airport (DEN)
• Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD)

Getting around Kauai

From the airport, you can rent a car to explore the island at your own pace. We got trucks so we could mob in the trunk and get all the sun we needed.

Stay in a Condo (VRBO)

Makahuena 2202 offers endless relaxation in a prime Poipu location. This newly remodeled three-bedroom luxury condo features hardwood floors, granite countertops, and new furniture. The bright and inviting living room includes a large flatscreen TV, Bose stereo system, CD/DVD players, and opens to a sunny lanai with garden and pool views, plus an outdoor dining area.

The kitchen boasts new stainless steel appliances, including a French-door fridge and a stove. Located at the southern tip of the island, the condo offers stunning views for both sunrise and sunset and is a short walk to Brennecke’s Beach and Poipu Beach State Park. Additional perks include high-speed internet, free WiFi, and free parking for one vehicle. Highly recommend staying here! We were able to access all of the west island from Poipu. Napali Coast and Waimea Canyon State park are both an hour or less (depending on traffic) from Poipu. 

Stay in a Hotel

Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort & Spa,
This hotel is located right on the coast of Koloa, right next to Shipwreck Beach.

Hit Up Poipu Beach Park This beach is straight-up gorgeous. Perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and even snorkeling. Keep an eye out for sea turtles and Hawaiian monk seals chillin’ on the shore. Oh, and the sunsets? Next level.

Chill at Shipwreck Beach Shipwreck Beach is awesome for more than just its name. It’s a bit more rugged, perfect for a peaceful day out. If you’re up for it, hike up the cliff for insane views.

Hike Maha’ulepu Heritage Trail This trail offers epic views of the coastline and is totally Insta-worthy. It’s an easy hike, but bring water and wear good shoes. You’ll pass by cliffs, beaches, and even some cool archaeological sites.

Snorkel at Lawai Beach If you’re into snorkeling, Lawai Beach is the place to be. It’s got vibrant coral reefs and tons of fish. Just rent some gear from a local shop and dive in.

Must-See Attractions

Waimea Canyon: Known as the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific,” this natural wonder offers stunning vistas and hiking opportunities.

Na Pali Coast: Take a boat tour or hike the Kalalau Trail for breathtaking views of this iconic coastline. We were driving after visiting the canyon and came across the most beautiful, untouched coastline I’ve seen. 

1. Wailua Falls

Just a short drive off the main road, Wailua Falls is a double waterfall that’s super easy to access. It’s a quick stop but definitely worth seeing and snapping a few pics.

2. Opaeka’a Falls

Another beautiful waterfall that’s super easy to get to. There’s a nice lookout point where you can take in the view and get some great photos.

3. Kapa’a Town

This cute town has some awesome food trucks, shops, and beaches. Perfect place to stretch your legs, grab a bite, and maybe even pick up some unique souvenirs.

4. Kealia Beach

Right off the highway, Kealia Beach is a great spot to take a break and watch surfers catch some waves. The beach is long and beautiful, perfect for a walk or a quick dip.

Stay in a Condo (Airbnb)

Located on a quiet cul-de-sac, Blue Hawaii House is a custom-built residence completed in 2008, situated on Kaikio Ewa Place, . Inside, the foyer leads to a spacious dining room and a great room with 20-foot ceilings, a large screen TV, and sea grass-style plantation furniture. The gourmet kitchen has top-notch appliances including an island, gas cooktop, and double ovens. The first floor also includes an office, a laundry room, a bar with a wine fridge, a den with futon couches, and a master suite with a Jacuzzi tub.

The second floor has bedrooms with shared and private bathrooms. A large covered and screened lanai opens to an expansive backyard with garden furniture, an outdoor shower, and a barbecue area. The backyard connects to a park, and the Princeville Shopping Mall, featuring restaurants and a grocery store, is just a three-minute walk away. Anini Beach is also a short 10-minute walk from the house.

1. Hanalei Bath

This stunning bay is perfect for swimming, paddleboarding, and just soaking up the sun. The mountains in the background make it even more epic. Don’t forget to grab a smoothie from one of the local spots!

2. Queen’s Bath

Queen’s Bath is a natural tide pool that’s a must-see. It’s a bit of a hike to get there, but so worth it. Just be super careful because it can get dangerous if the waves are big.

3. Anini Beach

Really close to Princeville and one of the calmer beaches make a stop by Anini Beach totally worth it. It’s a bit off the beaten path but has a very long reef that is absolutely amazing to snorkel at.. The water is usually calm so no lifeguard but keep an eye on currents as you get closer to the outer reefs. 

Munther proposed at Hanalei Bay, on Kauai’s North Shore. A stunning destination known for its two-mile stretch of golden sand, lush mountains, and crystal-clear waters. Picture-perfect, right? The lush greenery right next to the beach made it an unreal backdrop. Could Munther have chosen a better spot?!? It’s the literally the perfect place spot to chill, take a dip, and hang out even when you’re not getting proposed to. I had a 10/10 great time hiding out in the bushes when I was my girl get proposed to. Hanalei Bay is def the place to soak in everything that Hawaii had to offer!