Five Things to do in Kauai During Cruise

Explore Cruises to Hawaii Itineraries

Surround yourself with luxurious rainforests, breathtaking waterfalls, and dramatic coastlines to have an unforgettable experience in Kauai's Hawaiian paradise. Wrap yourself in the delicate Kauai breeze and immerse yourself in the tropical goodness of this magical island. A visit to this lush, dreamy island is a gateway to multiple fun activities.

Being docked on Kauai during a cruise is like a dream come true. Listed below are some things to do in Kauai on a cruise that will guarantee an otherworldly experience. Make timeless memories with your loved ones as you embark on this unforgettable journey.

5 Top Things to do in Kauai, Hawaii During a Cruise

1. Make your way to the Kalapaki Beach and have a surreal experience

Kalapaki Beach, close to the Nawiliwili Harbor, is a perfect place to start your Kauai cruise vacation. The beach is stationed in front of the luxurious Kauai Marriott Resort, and there is a myriad of dining and shopping options. This picturesque masterpiece is bound to leave you in awe.

Due to its crystal-clear blue water and breathtaking views, the cove is one of the island's most popular sunbathing sites. This place has it all, from taking pictures of the bay's gorgeous green mountains with magnificent sailing boats in the foreground to enjoying a serene picnic on the stretch of grass.

Soak up the rays on the beach, and leave all your worries behind while enjoying your favorite ice cream. Experience the scenic sunset after spending your day surfing. Dine at one of the beach's cafés and restaurants after having a fun-filled shopping experience. This is one of the best things to do near the Kauai cruise port.

2. The drive to Waimea Canyon is scenic and one of its kind

This place is paradise on earth for adventurers. From significant parks to mesmerizing sunsets, this uncharted scenic gem will leave you in a state of awe.

One can easily access the illustrious Na Pali coast and witness sheer deep jungle cliffs, deserted beaches, enthralling red gorges, forgotten surf breaks, chart-topping panoramas, waterfalls, and an endless expanse of ocean in its full glory. Waimea Canyon is approximately an hour's drive from Nawiliwili Harbor.

3. Kayak along the Wailua River

When in Hawaii, one cannot miss out on kayaking. The Wailua River is a short drive from the Nawiliwili Harbor and is stationed north of Lihue and should be on your to-do list when in Kauai.

The calm and the smoothly flowing Wailua River is Hawaii's only navigable stream. Driving around Kauai is fun, but nothing comes close to grabbing a kayak and cruising around the island. It allows you to bask in the serenity of water at your own pace. Aside from adrenaline-pumping activities, there are two gorgeous waterfalls along the river that you may like to explore. Wailua State Park is a major tourist destination due to the Wailua and Opaeka'a Waterfalls. It is one of the most incredible experiences.

You can also plan a hike to the Secret Falls, explore Kamokila Hawaiian village, and let yourself loose in the arms of mother nature. The geological wonder of the fern grotto cave is like a cherry on the top. Don't forget to pack a riverside picnic and relish the cherished time with your loved ones.

4. Visiting Kauai Coffee Plantation is a must

The largest coffee farm in the United States is Kauai Coffee Plantation. The plantation boasts over 4 million coffee trees on 3100 acres, producing more than half of all Hawaiian coffee. Wow!

Don't forget to take a self-guided or guided tour of the plantation to learn about coffee cultivation, harvesting, and roasting. It is indeed fascinating. Try all of the coffee flavors brewed on this farm to immerse fully into the aroma of coffee beans. You can also purchase your favorites at the end of the sampling.

Kauai coffee plantation is positioned on the way to Waimea or Kokee State Park, southwest of Kauai. Visiting this plantation is a no-brainer if you want to learn about coffee and sample some. In addition, the plantation's breathtaking views are reason enough to pay a visit.

5. When in Kauai, take note of the Sprouting Horn

This blowhole formed by years of wave action on the lava rock shelf of the coastline is, without doubt, one of Kauai's most photographed locations.

Water vigorously spouts from a narrow opening above the lava rock coast. This can shoot up to 50 feet into the air. A hissing and roaring sound is produced in the process, which is scintillating.

The blowhole's sounds come with an intriguing backstory. According to legend, a massive lizard once guarded the area. A young boy once tricked it into entering a narrow tube, where it got stuck. The locals believe the roaring sound of the spewing horn is thought to represent the lizard's breathing and hissing. During their season, which runs from December to April, whales can be seen on the drive from Poipu. Sounds wonderful, right?