Planning a family vacation to Kauai? Whether you’re traveling with toddlers, teens, or grandparents, Kauai is full of family-friendly activities that everyone can enjoy. From calm beaches perfect for kids to scenic boat tours, lush garden hikes, and authentic cultural experiences, Kauai offers a wide variety of things to do for families. In this guide, we cover the best family activities in Kauai — including can’t-miss beaches, safe hiking trails, wildlife encounters, and fun food stops — so you can plan a trip that’s safe, exciting, and unforgettable.
Before we dive in, have you seen our ranked lists? They might add more context and information for your trip.
Top Kid-Friendly Hotels in Kauai for Your Next Family Vacation
Best places to take kids in Kauai
Amazing family friendly beaches in Kauai
1. Take a Napali Coast Tour
No trip to Kauai is complete without experiencing the majestic Napali Coast — and a Napali Coast boat tour is one of the best things families can do on the island.
The coastline, with its towering sea cliffs, cascading waterfalls, sea caves, and lush valleys, is best seen from the water. Depending on your family’s interests and the ages of your kids, there are several options:
- Snorkel tours (perfect for older kids who are comfortable in the water)
- Power raft and snorkel tours (for a more adventurous ride and access to sea caves)
- Helicopter tours (an unforgettable aerial view of the entire coast)
- Sunset dinner cruises (a more relaxed way to enjoy the coast’s beauty)
Departure Points:
- Most tours leave from Port Allen in Eleele on Kauai’s west side.
- Summer-only tours from Hanalei Bay on the North Shore offer shorter travel times to the coast, with calmer waters for boat trips.
2. Visit the Spouting Horn Blowhole
Another family favorite near Poipu is the dramatic Spouting Horn Blowhole. This natural wonder occurs when waves crash into underwater lava tubes, forcing water to shoot high into the air through a natural opening in the rocks.
Located just a few minutes’ drive from Poipu Beach, the Spouting Horn is easy to visit and makes for a memorable photo stop. Kids will love watching the ocean “breathe” and hearing the loud, dragon-like hissing sound that sometimes accompanies the bursts.
- Tip: Visit during high tide for the most impressive displays.
- Bonus: Nearby local vendors often sell handmade crafts, perfect for picking up a Kauai souvenir.
3. Relax and Play at Hanalei Bay
Hanalei Bay is one of Kauai’s most famous beaches — and it’s a fantastic spot for families, especially during the summer months when the water is typically calm.
Stretching nearly two miles, the beach offers soft white sand and shallow entry points perfect for young swimmers. Families usually prefer parking near the east side by Hanalei Pier and Black Pot Beach Park for easier access and great views.
- Summer: Calm waters ideal for swimming, paddleboarding, and playing along the shore.
- Winter: Large waves and strong currents make Hanalei Bay unsafe for young swimmers. Always check surf reports.
Directions: Public parking available near Black Pot Beach, Hanalei Bay.
Tip: The pier is a popular spot for kids to jump off into the water — but parents should supervise closely.
Related: Best Kid-Friendly Kauai Beaches
4. Explore the Napali Coast Wilderness Area
The Napali Coast is one of the most iconic and photographed parts of Kauai. Spanning 17 miles of rugged cliffs, waterfalls, and lush valleys, this protected wilderness area is a must-see for families who enjoy outdoor adventures and breathtaking scenery.
Families can experience the Napali Coast in a few ways:
- Boat tours: Many tours depart from nearby harbors and are a family-friendly way to see sea caves, waterfalls, and towering cliffs.
- Hiking: If your children are older and experienced hikers, portions of the Napali Coast can be accessed by hiking the Kalalau Trail (permit required for full trail).
- Helicopter tours: For a bird’s-eye view, helicopter rides offer incredible family sightseeing, though age limits and costs vary.
Good to know: The Napali Coast is remote and there are no roads into it. Proper planning and safety precautions are important when visiting with children.
5. Visit Ke’e Beach
Located at the end of Kauai’s Kuhio Highway, Ha’ena State Park is a cultural and natural treasure. Families can explore working lo’i kalo (taro patches), ancient heiau (temples), and scenic trailheads leading to some of Kauai’s best hiking and beach spots.
The highlight for families is Ke’e Beach, a small, protected bay backed by towering cliffs.
- Kid-friendly snorkeling: The reef at Ke’e Beach creates a calm lagoon perfect for snorkeling and swimming, especially in the summer months.
- Amenities: Lifeguards, restrooms, and showers make it an easy destination for families.
- Seasonal conditions: Winter surf can be dangerous. Always check surf reports before swimming.
Important: Entry and parking reservations are required for Ha’ena State Park. A shuttle service is also available and recommended during busy seasons.
Hiking option: From Ke’e Beach, families can hike part of the Kalalau Trail:
- Ke’e Beach to Hanakapi’ai Beach (2 miles one way): A moderately challenging hike with incredible coast views.
- Waterfall hike (8 miles roundtrip): Best for older kids and experienced hikers; plan for a full day.
6. Watch Surfers at Shipwreck Beach
While Poipu Beach is often the go-to for family swimming, Shipwreck Beach offers a more adventurous, rugged alternative just east of Poipu.
Located in front of the Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort, Shipwreck Beach is popular with locals for surfing and bodyboarding. It’s not a recommended swimming beach for families due to strong surf and lack of a lifeguard, but it’s a fantastic place for:
- Beachcombing
- Watching surfers tackle the waves
- Spectacular sunset viewing
Facilities include restrooms, showers, picnic tables, and a large public parking lot, making it a convenient stop even with young kids.
Safety note: Always check current ocean conditions before approaching the water.
7. View the Twin Streams of Wailua Falls
Another must-see, family-friendly natural attraction is Wailua Falls, located just south of the Wailua River. These iconic waterfalls plunge over 80 feet into a deep pool below, often splitting into two streams depending on recent rainfall.
Families can view the falls safely from a designated lookout area right off the road — no hiking required. It’s a quick, memorable stop that’s perfect for snapping photos or simply taking in the power of Kauai’s natural landscapes.
- Rainy days: The falls are especially dramatic after heavy rain, with a roaring, misty cascade.
- Dry season: The falls may be less intense but remain beautiful and photogenic.
Tip: Parking is limited. Try visiting early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy cooler temperatures.
8. Take a Scenic Stop at ʻŌpaekaʻa Falls
Families who want to enjoy Kauai’s natural beauty without a long hike should head to ʻŌpaekaʻa Falls, one of the island’s most easily accessible waterfalls.
Located just a short drive inland from Kapa’a, the roadside lookout provides a perfect family-friendly stop. The falls themselves are an impressive 151 feet tall and 40 feet wide, flowing year-round thanks to Kauai’s abundant rainfall.
Directions: ʻŌpaekaʻa Falls, accessible from Kuamoʻo Road (Route 580).
Bonus Tip: Directly across the street from the waterfall viewing area is a lookout over the Wailua River — you can often see kayakers paddling through the calm waters.
9. Visit the Kilauea Point Lighthouse and Wildlife Refuge
Families visiting Kauai’s North Shore should not miss the Kilauea Point National Wildlife Refuge, home to the historic Kilauea Point Lighthouse. Built in 1913, the lighthouse sits atop dramatic 180-foot cliffs, offering stunning coastal views and incredible wildlife encounters.
Beyond the lighthouse itself, the refuge is a sanctuary for native seabirds. Kids and parents alike can watch red-footed boobies soar overhead and, with a bit of luck, spot Hawai’i’s state bird, the endangered nēnē goose.
Important: Reservations are required to enter the Kilauea Point National Wildlife Refuge. Plan ahead, especially during peak seasons.
Tip for families: Bring binoculars for better wildlife viewing, and note that strong winds are common at the cliffs.
10. Spend a Day at Anini Beach
If you’re searching for a calm, family-friendly beach away from crowds, Anini Beach should be high on your Kauai itinerary.
Located near Kilauea, Anini Beach features:
- Calm, shallow waters thanks to the island’s largest offshore reef
- Long stretches of soft white sand
- A grassy park area for picnicking and play
These features make Anini Beach a top pick for families with young kids. Unlike many other North Shore beaches, Anini stays relatively calm even in winter, although caution is always advised.
What to bring: There are no food trucks or restaurants nearby, so pack your own lunch, snacks, and drinks for a full day of fun.
Bonus Tip: Snorkeling is excellent here during summer, especially for beginners.
Related: Top Family-Friendly Beaches in Kauai
11. Eat Like a Local at Kapa’a Food Truck Parks
Kapa’a Town on Kauai’s east coast is often called the island’s unofficial capital of food trucks. The variety and sheer number of trucks make Kapa’a a must-visit for families looking for a casual, affordable meal.
Two main clusters of food trucks are easy to find:
- Near Kapa’a Beach Park: Ideal for grabbing a bite before or after a beach visit.
- Near All Saints Church: Offers a wide range of options from fresh poke bowls to plate lunches, smoothies, and desserts.
Tip: Seating is often casual (think picnic tables or bring-your-own beach chairs), so be prepared for a relaxed outdoor dining experience.
12. Explore the History of Old Koloa Town
Families interested in Kauai’s cultural history should make a stop at Historic Koloa Town. Established in 1835, Koloa was the site of Hawaii’s first successful sugarcane plantation, marking the start of a pivotal era in the islands’ history.
Today, visitors can walk the charming streets lined with plantation-era buildings, explore the Old Sugar Mill Memorial, and enjoy shopping at the Old Koloa Town Shops. It’s a quick but meaningful way to introduce kids to Hawaii’s plantation heritage.
Tip for families: Before heading to nearby Poipu Beach, stop in Koloa for a local-style plate lunch from Koloa Fish Market or one of the many popular Koloa food trucks. Don’t miss sampling shave ice, a classic Kauai treat — the South Shore is home to some of the island’s best spots.
13. Discover Limahuli Garden & Preserve
For a slower-paced day that still immerses families in Kauai’s history and beauty, a visit to Limahuli Garden & Preserve is perfect. This award-winning botanical garden in Ha’ena Valley protects endangered native plants, ancient agricultural terraces, and important cultural sites.
Families visiting Limahuli can enjoy:
- Self-guided walking tours (around 1.5 hours) through lush valleys and historic taro fields.
- Learning opportunities about how native Hawaiians sustainably lived off the land.
- Wildlife spotting of native birds and plant species rarely seen elsewhere.
Limahuli offers a meaningful way to connect with Hawaii’s environment and culture beyond the beach — and provides a tranquil break from the more adventurous outings.
Tip: Bring water, wear good walking shoes, and come early to beat the midday heat.
14. Enjoy a Relaxing Day at Ha’ena Beach Park
Just before you reach Ha’ena State Park, Ha’ena Beach Park offers families a more casual beach day — no reservation required.
Why Ha’ena Beach is great for families:
- Easy access: Located right off Kuhio Highway.
- Facilities: Restrooms, showers, and a snack trailer selling fresh fruit and simple snacks.
- Lifeguards on duty: Adding an extra layer of safety for families with younger children.
- Long sandy beach: Perfect for beach walks and building sandcastles.
During calm ocean conditions, kids can swim here, but parents should be cautious — strong currents are common during the winter. Always swim near the lifeguard stand.
Many families use Ha’ena Beach Park as a launching point for:
- Picnics under the cliffs (pali)
- Walking down the beach to nearby Tunnels (Makua Beach) for snorkeling.
Parking tip: The small lot fills up fast. Arrive early to secure a spot or be prepared for roadside parking along the highway.
15. Explore the Maniniholo Dry Cave
Located directly across from Ha’ena Beach Park, the Maniniholo Dry Cave is a quick and fun stop for families exploring Kauai’s North Shore. The cave features a wide, sandy-floored chamber with a low ceiling, easily accessible just steps from the parking area.
Kids will love walking inside the cool, dim cave and imagining the Hawaiian legends tied to its creation. According to local folklore, ancient Polynesian settlers chased the mythical Menehune through tunnels that once connected to the North Shore. After escaping, the Menehune collapsed the cave’s ceiling, creating the dry cavern seen today.
Tip for families: Bring flashlights for extra fun exploring, but note that the cave is generally bright enough during the daytime to walk safely.
16. See the Menehune Fishpond Overlook
Families driving near Līhu‘e should make a short stop at the Menehune Fishpond Overlook, a fascinating historical site perfect for a quick educational visit.
Known locally as Alekoko Fishpond, legend says the pond was built overnight by the mythical Menehune, Hawaii’s ancient master builders. In reality, this centuries-old aquaculture pond was ingeniously engineered to trap and raise fish, providing food for ancient Hawaiian communities.
- Location: Just west of Līhu‘e off of Hulemalu Road.
- Tip for families: The overlook has ample parking and interpretive signs, making it an easy and informative stop.
This quick detour offers a glimpse into the island’s ancient ingenuity — a great way to mix history into your family adventure.
17. Ride the Kauai Plantation Railway at Kilohana Plantation
For younger kids (and train enthusiasts of all ages), the Kauai Plantation Railway is a must-do experience.
Located at Kilohana Plantation near Līhu‘e, the vintage-style train ride tours through 105 acres of working farmland. Families can see fields of sugarcane, pineapple, bananas, and tropical flowers, and may even get a chance to feed goats, pigs, and sheep at a stop along the way.
- Train Rides: About 40 minutes long.
- Extras: Kilohana Plantation also has shops, a historic home, and a restaurant, making it a nice half-day outing.
Tip: Book ahead during holiday periods, as family-friendly time slots tend to fill up quickly.
18. Swim and Play at Poipu Beach Park
Poipu Beach Park is one of the most family-friendly beaches in all of Hawaii and a top pick for visiting families.
The beach is split into multiple small coves, offering something for everyone:
- A protected keiki (kids) swimming area that’s naturally sheltered from waves.
- Gentle snorkeling areas with clear waters and colorful fish.
- A wide sandy beach perfect for building sandcastles and beach games.
Facilities include lifeguards, restrooms, showers, shaded picnic tables, and a playground — making it easy to spend the entire day here with kids.
Tip for families: Monk seals sometimes come ashore to rest here (more on that next!), so always observe posted signs and give the animals plenty of space.
Related: Best Kid-Friendly Beaches in Kauai
19. Stroll the Waimea Pier and Beach Park
On Kauai’s west side, Waimea Beach Park and its historic Waimea Pier offer a quieter, less touristy beach experience.
The pier, once a bustling hub during the island’s sugar plantation days, now serves as a scenic walkway where families can:
- Take in panoramic ocean views.
- Watch the sunset over Niihau (the Forbidden Island).
- Fish or simply enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
Waimea Beach Park has restrooms, showers, and grassy areas — perfect for a beach picnic after exploring nearby attractions like Waimea Canyon.
Tip: The beach has darker volcanic sand and is less ideal for swimming due to occasional strong currents, but it’s perfect for playing in the shallows and relaxing.
20. Hike to Ho’opi’i Falls
For adventurous families with older kids, the Ho’opi’i Falls hike offers a moderate, memorable trek through lush Kauai forests.
The trail leads to two picturesque waterfalls:
- The first waterfall is smaller and easier to access.
- The second waterfall features a more dramatic cascade into a large swimming hole (swimming is at your own risk and conditions vary depending on rainfall).
- Length: About 2 miles round trip.
- Difficulty: Moderate — not stroller-friendly.
- Tip: The trail can be muddy after rain, so wear sturdy shoes.
Safety note: Always check local conditions and respect posted signs. Some parts of the trail can be slippery, especially near the falls.
21. Watch Hawaiian Monk Seals at Poipu Beach
One of the most exciting wildlife encounters for kids visiting Kauai is seeing an endangered Hawaiian monk seal up close — and Poipu Beach is one of the best places to spot them.
Monk seals often come ashore to rest on the sand, especially near the keiki lagoon area. When a seal is spotted, volunteers usually rope off the area to ensure the animal is left undisturbed.
Family guidelines:
- Stay at least 50 feet away.
- Never attempt to touch or feed the seals.
- Respect barriers and signs set up by volunteers.
Teaching kids to observe respectfully helps preserve this endangered species for future generations.
22. Visit Kōkeʻe State Park and Kalalau Lookout
For families who want breathtaking mountain views without strenuous hiking, a trip up to Kōkeʻe State Park is a must.
Located above Waimea Canyon, Kōkeʻe offers:
- Easy nature trails suitable for kids.
- A small natural history museum.
- A cool escape from the coastal heat.
The highlight for many visitors is the Kalalau Lookout, where you can gaze across the emerald cliffs of the Kalalau Valley all the way to the Pacific Ocean.
Tip for families: Morning visits usually offer clearer views before the clouds roll in.
Facilities at the park include restrooms, a lodge restaurant, and picnic areas. If your kids are up for it, consider adding a short nature trail hike before heading back down.
23. Experience Smith’s Family Garden Luau
A trip to Kauai wouldn’t be complete without experiencing an authentic Hawaiian luau, and Smith’s Family Garden Luau is one of the most family-friendly options on the island.
Set in a 30-acre botanical garden along the Wailua River, the evening includes:
- A traditional Hawaiian buffet dinner with kid-friendly options.
- Live music and a Polynesian show featuring hula, fire-knife dancing, and storytelling.
- A tram or leisurely walk through the beautifully landscaped gardens.
Tip for families: Arrive early to explore the gardens before dinner. Kids will love spotting peacocks, ducks, and native plants.
Reservations: Strongly recommended, especially during peak seasons.
24. Take the Wailua River Boat Tour to Fern Grotto
Another family favorite adventure is the Wailua River Fern Grotto boat tour, a calm and scenic way to explore Kauai’s lush interior.
This leisurely river cruise takes families up the Wailua River, surrounded by dense jungle landscapes, to the Fern Grotto — a lava rock cave draped in hanging ferns. Along the way, guides share local legends and live Hawaiian music is performed on board.
- Tour length: About 1.5 hours round trip.
- Good for: All ages, including young kids and grandparents.
Tip: Bring mosquito repellent, especially if you plan to walk into the grotto area.
This tour offers an easy, accessible way to experience Kauai’s beauty without needing to hike or paddle.
25. Explore Glass Beach
Glass Beach, located near Port Allen on Kauai’s south shore, offers a quick and unique stop that’s especially fun for kids.
Instead of typical sand, the shoreline here is covered in millions of tiny pieces of sea glass, smoothed and polished by the ocean over decades. Colors range from white and brown to rare blues and greens.
- Important note for families: Leave the sea glass behind — it’s illegal to take glass from the beach.
Tip: Visit in the morning for better lighting to see the colors sparkle.
While not a swimming beach, Glass Beach is a fascinating place for beachcombing, photography, and a quick educational lesson on recycling and nature’s ability to reclaim human-made materials.
Plan Your Perfect Family Vacation to Kauai
Kauai is packed with unforgettable experiences for families — from calm beaches and scenic hikes to unique wildlife encounters and cultural shows. Have you seen our ranked lists? They might add more context and information for your trip.
Top Kid-Friendly Hotels in Kauai for Your Next Family Vacation
Best places to take kids in Kauai
Amazing family friendly beaches in Kauai
For detailed visitor info, check out the Wikivoyage page on Kauai.
