15 of the Top Things To Do on Kauai Per Viator Travelers
Ask frequent visitors to Hawaii what their favorite island is and plenty will say Kauai. After all, not only is this lush island ridiculously scenic, but it’s also full of fun things to see and do. But where to start? While any Kauai travel guide will offer suggestions for what to experience on the Garden Island, sometimes the best recommendations come from fellow travelers.
Viator reviewers have rated these Kauai adventures as some of the best things to do for any Kauai itinerary. Whether looking for a romantic evening or seeking your next great thrill, these highly rated experiences offer something for everyone.
1. Zipline over the Waita Reservoir
What?: Get the ultimate endorphin rush on a zipline adventure over the Waita Reservoir. Soar through the skies above Kauai’s famously magnificent scenery and choose from eight ziplines, ranging from a seated option to the more adventurous belly-down, arms-outstretched position.
When?: Ziplining experiences are usually available Monday to Saturday from early morning until late afternoon. Be sure to check age and health restrictions before you book.
What one reviewer said: “It was amazing; the views were spectacular! Multiple ziplines with various styles of sailing through the air.” Elizabeth_H, January 2025
2. Boat along the Na Pali Coast
What?: The Na Pali Coast is one of the top attractions on Kauai, but there’s no way to get there by road. While some travelers hike in, another option to see this famously beautiful stretch of coastline is on a boat tour, during which your guide will help you spot some of the area’s incredible marine life.
When?: Boat tours are available year-round with morning and afternoon departures, but be aware that tours can be postponed due to adverse weather conditions.
What one reviewer said: “We saw spinner dolphins, humpback whales and a baby humpback and sea caves, not to mention the gorgeous Na Pali Coast! The crew were so knowledgeable and friendly and funny!” Alicia_J, February 2025
3. Raft and snorkel near the Na Pali Coast
What?: A motorized raft tour is a wet and wild way to see the Na Pali Coast. Traveling by raft is not only a lot of fun, but it’s also easier to get close to sea caves and waterfalls that are inaccessible to larger vessels.
When?: Rafting adventures are available daily throughout the year with morning and afternoon departures.
What one reviewer said: “The rafting experience was one of the most fun and adventurous things we’ve ever done!” Adam_S, February 2025
4. Take a helicopter ride over Kauai
What?: Book a helicopter tour to experience the wonder of the island from above and spot Kauai landmarks along the way. Soar over the massive Waimea Canyon and see perspectives of the remote Na Pali Coast that aren’t visible from land or sea.
When?: Helicopter rides are available morning and afternoon throughout the year, conditions permitting. If possible, aim for clear conditions for the best views.
What one reviewer said: “This was an experience of a lifetime! The pilot was skilled and provided narration when needed but also quiet time to contemplate the beauty surrounding us.” Ellen_M, February 2025
5. See top Kauai highlights in just one day
What?: If you’re short on time, a Kauai sightseeing tour will ensure you see many local highlights in just one day. Marvel at the size of the Waimea Canyon, enjoy lunch in the old-timey Old Koloa Town, sip fresh java at the Kauai Coffee Company, and watch the Spouting Horn shoot seawater into the sky.
When?: Full-day tours typically last around 10 hours and operate on select days, so check ahead to find one that fits your Kauai itinerary best.
What one reviewer said: "Having never been to Kauai before, the tour showed us a large section of the island and gave us an easy way to see major sights." John_J, February 2025
6. Kayak along the Wailua River
What?: One of the best ways to see the Wailua River Valley is by kayak—and you don't have to be an expert to paddle along this scenic river. Take a guided kayaking tour along the Wailua’s calm waters and spot wildlife along the way, before stopping to cool off at Secret Falls.
When?: Excursions usually take place on weekdays in the early morning or early afternoon and last for about five hours.
What one reviewer said: “This was a great way to learn about the plants, trees, waterfall, and Hawaiian history. Our guide shared lots of stories and information.” Maria_W, February 2025
7. Cycle downhill through the Waimea Canyon
What?: The Waimea Canyon—often referred to as the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific”—is one of the must-see places on Kauai. A thrilling way to experience it is on a downhill bike ride, which will take you into the depths of this colorful canyon without requiring much peddling.
When?: Guided tours operate on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and select Mondays. Tours offer the safest way to experience this route and typically provide a cycling kit.
What one reviewer said: “So fun, gorgeous views, and you don’t have to be a great biker to go and enjoy this.” Kami_B, December 2024
8. Watch live performances at a traditional luau
What?: Attending a luau is among the top cultural experiences in Hawaii, and most combine huge feasts with live entertainment. The Luau Ka Hikina is no exception. It includes a traditional lei greeting, hula performances, and a buffet-style dinner featuring plenty of tasty Hawaiian dishes.
When?: Luau Ka Hikina takes place on Tuesday and Thursday evenings throughout the year. Monday and Wednesday luaus are added from mid-May to mid-August.
What one reviewer said: “The show and the food was excellent, from the hula dancers to the fire dance, stories of their ancestors and the beautiful music they perform.” Mitch_T, February 2025
9. Enjoy the sunset on a dinner cruise of the Na Pali Coast
What?: Add a dash of romance to your vacation on a sunset dinner cruise along the Na Pali Coast; enjoy scenic landscape views and colorful skies while you dine and sip mai tais. This experience is great for couples and fun for groups, thanks to great photo opportunities and the chance to spot marine life frolicking in the surf.
When?: Cruises depart most evenings just before sunset.
What one reviewer said: “Obviously the main draw is the spectacular scenery, but the crew of the Leila really make this experience special.” Brendan_O, August 2024
10. Spot marine life aboard a whale-watching cruise
What?: While Kauai cruises are great for taking in the scenery, they also offer the chance to spot whales, dolphins, and more marine life. Experience the wonder of seeing whales in the wild on a whale-watching cruise: Look out for migrating humpbacks, while listening to commentary on these majestic creatures.
When?: Whale-watching season usually runs from November or December until March or April.
What one reviewer said: “We saw majestic humpbacks … one breached in front of us and two tailed their flippers around and around. It was beautiful.” Robert_H, February 2025
11. Explore Hanalei’s culinary scene
What?: Go beyond Kauai’s tourist spots while filling up on tasty treats in Hanalei; you may recognize the name from the song "Puff the Magic Dragon." A food-focused walking tour led by a local guide will take you to the best places to eat and drink around town, all beyond the typical traveler route.
When?: Come when you’re hungry: Food tours are usually available from Friday to Tuesday throughout the year.
What one reviewer said: “The food was delicious and we learned a lot about Hanalei and local Kauai food culture.” Heather_G, June 2024
12. Wander the Princeville Botanical Gardens
What?: It should come as little surprise that Kauai has some fabulous gardens—this is the “Garden Island,” after all. The Princeville Botanical Gardens are among the finest, offering lush scenery and walking tours, during which you can sample farm-produced fruit, honey, and chocolate.
When?: Tours typically run on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday mornings.
What one reviewer said: “The gardens are gorgeous and our guide Sherrie was knowledgeable, friendly, and funny! The fruits and chocolate tastings were great and it gave you time to just stop and enjoy your surroundings and learn a little something too!!” Anne_S, February 2025
13. Learn to surf on the coast of Hanalei Bay
What?: Surfing is one of the best Kauai activities for active travelers, and you don’t have to be an expert to try it for yourself thanks to the availability of private surfing classes. Designed with beginners in mind, small group lessons will help you hone your surf skills with a certified instructor.
When?: Surfing lessons are available on weekday mornings and afternoons throughout the year and on Saturdays from late spring to December.
What one reviewer said: “We took this tour on our honeymoon and man was it great. I’ll never forget standing up on my first wave.” Laurence_K, October 2024
14. Scuba dive off the coast of Kauai
What?: While there’s plenty of gorgeous scenery on land, the waters off the coast of Kauai are equally magical. Spot colorful sea life for yourself on a shallow-water diving tour suitable for first-time divers ready to learn the basics of diving with a PADI instructor.
When?: Lessons are available most weekdays and on some Saturdays in the morning and afternoon.
What one reviewer said: “We saw so many turtles and schools of fish … Would recommend it for any first timers!” Victor_Y, July 2024
15. Rappel down secret waterfalls
What?: Go beyond the Kauai sightseeing trail and try a rappelling excursion down not one but two waterfalls. Head to a private property where the waterfalls are located, the tallest of which is around 60 feet (18.2 meters). Strap on your harness and rappel down into their depths, with the help of an instructor who will show you the ropes—literally.
When?: Rappelling experiences are held Monday to Saturday in the morning and afternoon.
What one reviewer said: “Great experience! I was so nervous, but ended up having a great time!” Laura_W, August 2024
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