After months of planning your dream wedding, there’s nothing more rewarding than whisking away to a dreamy destination to kick off your new life chapter together. With its scenic views, expansive beaches and other-worldly hikes, Kauai is the perfect place to relax, rejuvenate and tap into your adventurous side. Known as the Garden Isle, immerse yourself in the lush vegetation and crystal-clear ocean while forming lifelong memories with each other. Here are some ideas to make your next romantic trip amazing.
Where to stay
South shore
Just beyond the infamous Tree Tunnel lies Koloa and Poipu, the perfect homebase for your week of adventure. The Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort and Spa offers a luxurious stay with expansive views of Kauai's south shore. Taking a stroll at sunrise or sunset is enough to take one’s breath away with the property’s amazing beachfront views. If you’d like to stay close to home, guests can also opt to dedicate a day to hitting the course at Poipu Bay Golf or having a day of rejuvenation at the Anara Spa. The property also offers multi-level pools, including an adults-only area, lazy river pool, a150 ft. waterslide and even a saltwater lagoon. Not feeling the pool? They also have walking access to Shipwreck Beach, where you can tan and watch bodysurfers play in the waves.
The Koloa Landing Resort offers luxurious resort rooms of villa options to find the perfect accommodation to fit your honeymoon needs. Its 25-acre property offers an award-winning pool and the perfect sunset view at their “Sunset Wall” – the perfect location to grab a cocktail and soak in the relaxation of paradise. The Sheraton Kauai Resort is another beachfront property nestled right on the shores of Poipu Beach. Enjoy many amenities including a sunset dinner at their signature restaurant, RumFire, or relaxing by the pool in a shaded cabana with a Mai Tai in hand.
North shore
The North Shore of Kauai is well-known for its picturesque views of Hanalei Bay and lush scenery. The Princeville Resort provides guests with the ultimate luxury experience, including their own private beach and an infinity pool to snap the ultimate North Shore photo memory. The Westin Princeville Ocean Resort Villas provides cliffside views and provides close access to multiple Hanalei and Princeville activities.
1 Hotel Hanalei Bay is a new property on the north shore of Kauai that promotes wellness as their top priority. While taking it Kauai's natural wonders, enjoy their farm-to-table dining experiences, treatment at their Bamford Wellness Spa and immersive experiences to boost your well-being.
Get outside and take in the views
No matter where you are on the island, views of Kauai’s mountainous terrain and lush vegetation follow. But specific areas of the island provide even more awe-inspiring features. When exploring Kauai's eastern coast, don’t forget to make a stop at the island’s double-tiered waterfall, Wailua Falls. Kauai's west side is home to the famous Waimea Canyon, known as The Grand Canyon of the Pacific, where you can take in the views of Hawaii’s famous red dirt, vegetation and waterfalls. Drive a little further up the road to Kalalau Lookout for sunset and a breathtaking view of the Nāpali Coast. Don’t forget to ensure that you follow parking signs to ensure you Travel Pono.
Kauai is also home to some of the best hikes. Take a look at some of our favorite hikes across the island at our Island Guide.
Make lifetime memories with these unique activities
One of the most popular activities when visiting Kauai is taking an immersive boat tour along the jaw-dropping Napali Coast. Start the morning at sunrise and spend the day feeling the ocean breeze and exploring the towering cliffs and sea caves along the coast. Keep the adventure going with mountain tubing at Kauai Backcountry Adventures. Float down the open canals and tunnels of the historic Lihue Plantation – it’s the perfect blend of exploration and relaxation.
If you’re looking for an exhilarating experience and aren’t afraid to get a little muddy, visit Kipu Ranch Adventures in Lihue for an amazing ATV experience where you’ll be able to explore Kauai's lush landscape and also see their private waterfall. Princeville Ranch offers an opportunity to take in the views of Kauai's North Shore while riding horseback.
If you’re looking for a break from the outdoors, make sure to check out Koloa Rum for their tasting tour. Their tasting room is at the 105-acre Kilohana Plantation where you’ll be able to experience the ambience of Kauai's old plantation era and sample their amazing product.
Do as the locals do
Kauai is one of the least developed main islands of Hawaii. Their small quaint towns are the best way to immerse yourself into the island lifestyle and support local. Wander around Kapaa and delight in the tastes of the Islands at places like Java Kai Café and Kauai Juice Company. Rent a bike or take a stroll along Ke Ala Hele Makalae, an easy paved walk and bike path that gives everyone access to view the beautiful coastline of Kauai’s east shore. As you head towards Kauai's west side, make a stop at Hanapepe, an old sugar plantation town that features art galleries, restaurants, boutiques and the Hanapepe Swinging Bridge. Head on over to Old Koloa Town for another stop that will take you back to the plantation era. Shop and enjoy this historic little town or satisfy your appetite nearby with a cluster of local food trucks. For more food truck favorites, see our Island Guide.