How To Beat the Crowds on Kauai

All of the Hawaiian Islands, Kauai included, have two peak seasons: summer and winter. The time between these periods, specifically March to May and September to November, is the best time to visit Kauai, as it’s when the crowds are at their most manageable.

As if the lack of crowds wasn’t enough to convince you, Kauai’s shoulder season often also has the best pricing and the best weather (with the exception of hot and humid September). There really are very few drawbacks to experiencing the Garden Isle during these lesser-visited months.

A trip to Kauai—or anywhere in Hawaii—is typically a big trip for most people. It requires at least a 5-hour flight from Los Angeles, and it often costs quite a bit of money. So it’s no surprise to find out that most visitors try to make the most of their vacation by staying from one weekend and into the next—which also means that the weekends are when the islands are at their busiest. To top that off, that’s when the locals are out exploring too.

For more manageable crowds, hit up Kauai’s biggest attractions during the week—think Waimea Canyon State Park, Na Pali Coast boat tours, and Wailua Falls. There will still be crowds, but they will be doable.

Most of the roads on Kauai are one lane each way. This means that traffic can easily back up, and this is most apparent during school pickup hours (between 1:30pm and 3:30pm on weekdays during the school year). Traffic can come to a complete standstill as parents line up to pick up their kids, with lines often winding out into the main roads.

Kapaa and Lihue are where most of the jams happen, but don’t be surprised if you get caught in other parts of the island as well. If you do, just take a deep breath, turn up the music, and take in the roadside views as you crawl on by.

Some of the best things to do on Kauai can only be done on a guided tour or excursion, such as snorkeling off the Na Pali Coast or taking a helicopter over the island. While all tours have a maximum number of people they can accommodate, it’s often a better experience when the tours aren’t a full house. For your best chance at a partially full excursion, opt for a morning tour time—the earlier the better.

As an added bonus, these early morning tours are often the best, regardless of the number of people. Morning kayak and snorkel tours often have the calmest waters and the most marine activity, while early helicopter tours have lovely natural lighting.

Located on Kauai’s South Shore, Poipu is a gem of a town, with calm beaches, luxury hotels, and loads of restaurants. It’s as convenient as it gets when it comes to a Kauai vacation. But with convenience come the crowds, so it’s a trade-off.

For a more peaceful Kauai getaway, book an accommodation that’s a little off the beaten path. Kilauea on the North Shore has a couple of charming farm cottages, while the Lawai/Kalaheo area in the hills above Poipu keeps you just out of the way of the action.

Waimea Canyon State Park is a must-visit for every Kauai traveler. After all, it’s not called “the Grand Canyon of the Pacific” for nothing. But if everyone is going, that does mean there will inevitably be crowds.

In all honesty, there aren’t a whole lot of ways to avoid the throngs of people at this stunning state park, especially if you’re traveling during peak season. Your best bet is to get there bright and early, close to when the park opens at sunrise. Depending on where you’re staying on the island, this may mean waking up well before the sun.

Instead of getting stuck in traffic on the road, take to the skies on a Kauai helicopter tour. Much of Kauai is inaccessible by road anyway, so you’ll actually get to see more of the island from the air. Sites such as Manawaiopuna Falls (called “Jurassic Park Falls” due to its appearance in the 1993 blockbuster movie) can only be spotted by helicopter or plane.

The bird’s-eye view of the island’s main attractions—including Waimea Canyon State Park, the Hanalei taro fields, and the Na Pali Coast—aren’t too shabby either. And of course, there are no crowds to worry about the entire flight.

First thing’s first, Hanalei Bay is stunning. This crescent-shaped bay framed by lush green cliffs looks plucked out of a storybook. And for that reason, lots of people want to visit and parking can be a struggle.

If you’re not keen on dealing with parking purgatory, head east to the lesser known Anini Beach just a few miles away. While the views aren’t quite the same, they’re definitely stunning in their own way, with equally beautiful Pacific Ocean views. Add that to the fact that it’s one of Kauai’s quietest spots, and you’ve got yourself a Kauai hidden gem for a beach day.

Related: 9 of the Best Beaches on Kauai For Every Type of Traveler

Like Hanalei Bay, the Nounou East Trail is gorgeous. If you find it in yourself to brave the crowds in the parking lot, do it. But if that’s just not something you’re up for, there are many other Kauai hiking trails to explore.

First and foremost, the Nounou East Trail is just one of three trails up the same “Sleeping Giant” mountain. The other two—Nounou West and Nounou Kuamoo—are lovely alternatives with views that are almost as good as the East Trail. Looking for something completely different? The Pihea Trail to the Alakai Swamp Trail in Kokee State Park is 8 miles (12.9 kilometers) of vibrant rainforest, while the Mahaulepu Heritage Trail offers awe-inspiring beach views.

Related: 9 of the Best Hiking Trails on Kauai