The Perfect One-Week Kauai Itinerary: Beaches, Boogie Boards & Bucket-List Moments

You know those vacations where you come back home and immediately look up property on Zillow like, “Hmm, maybe I could homeschool the kids and open a smoothie shack in paradise…” Yeah, Kauai does that to you.

My favorite vacation destination is Kauai’s North Shore.  If I won the lottery, I would be on the phone with a realtor in Hanalei within the hour.  I am happiest and most relaxed in Kauai.  I’m a city girl, but I love being outside when I’m in Kauai. 

Most people tend to go to Oahu, but you really must venture to at least one other island, and preferably Kauai.  And if you’ve only got a week on Kauai, this itinerary will help you soak up the magic without the chaos.

First Things First: Rent the Car. No Seriously. Rent It.

There’s no way around this one—you need a rental car on Kauai. Yes, even if you’re a diehard Uber fan or “we’ll wing it” traveler. This island is rural, spread out, and full of hidden gems you can’t access without wheels.

Now, a word of warning: car rental lines at Lihue airport can be a nightmare. Multiple times I’ve spent over an hour in line at Avis… but on my most recent trip, we breezed right through. Who knows? Maybe the rental car gods smiled on me. Or maybe it was 11:37 a.m. on a Tuesday, and I just got lucky.

Rental cars are very affordable on the island, especially if you book in advance. I suggest using RentalCars.com, where you can compare prices from all the major rental car companies. They also have an excellent cancellation policy, typically offering free cancellation up to 48 hours in advance. Plus, they provide a price match guarantee!

Day 0: Arrival, Costco Haul, and Settling In

Most flights land in the afternoon, so this day is about getting your bearings. Pick up your rental car, then make a strategic stop at Costco or Walmart near the airport. Trust me, stocking up here will save you a ton compared to the small (adorable but pricey) grocery stores up north.

Pro tip: Order online ahead of time and swing by for pickup. Boom. You’re winning vacation.

Then, it’s time to drive to your hotel. If you’re staying on the North Shore (which I highly recommend for the first part of your trip), you’re looking at about a one-hour drive depending on how many scenic pullovers and one-lane bridges distract you along the way.

Where to Stay: Split the Island

I always divide my trip between two locations: the laid-back, peaceful North Shore and the sunnier, more resort-y South Shore. This lets you get a taste of both vibes—jungle waterfalls and cliff diving, plus sunset luaus and shaved ice.

North Shore Magic: Days 1–3

I have a whole article about where I recommend staying on Kauai.. If you want a shortcut to the best hotels on the North Shore of Kauai, here are my recommendations!

• 1 Hotel Hanalei Bay
• The Westin Princeville Ocean Resort Villas
• Hanalei Colony Resort

My family and I often debate whether to choose a vacation rental or a hotel, so we typically opt for a vacation rental on the North Shore and a hotel on the South Shore.  Yes, we are high maintenance.

Day 1: Hanalei Bay + Beach Bumming

Start strong with a full beach day at Hanalei Bay. Think: boogie boarding, floating, jumping off the pier, maybe building a sand carrot if your kids are into that.

The views are unreal. If this doesn’t make you fall in love with Kauai, nothing will.

Grab lunch at Hanalei Poke and go slow. Day one is all about easing into the island rhythm.

If your hotel or vacation rental does not offer the beach necessities, you can rent them from a few shops in Hanalei for very affordable prices (roughly $5 per chair/umbrella per day).  We’ve rented from Pedal ’N Paddle and Hanalei Surf Co.  Both places also offer surfboards, snorkels, and other items for rent, but we’ve only rented the chairs and umbrellas.

Pro Tip: When driving to Hanalei and beyond, you will encounter one-lane bridges.  The local etiquette is to let 4 or 5 cars go across, then the other side of the cars will cross.   

Day 2: Tubing Adventure or Kayaking

Time for your first big activity. Kauai Backcountry tubing through old sugar plantation canals is weird, wonderful, and way more fun than you’d think floating in a helmet would be. It’s perfect for families or just adults who never outgrew inner tubes.

Alternatively, if you’re craving a bit more exercise movement (and maybe fewer helmets), go for a guided kayak tour along the Wailua River.

After the morning adventure, it’s time for another beach. There are numerous options on the north shore of Kauai, but I recommend Tunnels Beach for snorkeling (although not ideal for beginners) or returning to Hanalei Bay (my favorite beach). 

Day 3: Waterfall Hike + Chill Afternoon

Set your alarm and hit the trails early before the sun gets too intense and before the parking fills up. The hike to Hanakapiai Falls is stunning if you’re up for a sweat.  If you have little kids, don’t go further than Hanakapiai Beach, or try a lighter alternative like Hoopii Falls Trail. 

Before you drive to any trail, make sure to check current conditions.  Too much rain could cause the trails to close. 

By lunchtime, reward yourself for the hike with a massive shave ice in Hanalei and then a lovely beach nap. That’s what we call balance.

Down South We Go: Days 4–7

Again, I have a whole article about where I recommend staying on Kauai.. If you want a shortcut to the best hotels on the South Shore of Kauai, here are my recommendations!

• Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort & Spa
• Koloa Landing Resort at Poipu, Autograph Collection

Day 4: Hanalei Morning + Drive to South Shore

Spend the morning grabbing last-minute souvenirs in Hanalei.  My family loves the t-shirt options at Hanalei Surf and Backdoor Surf Shop. Then hit the road.

If you’re headed to the Grand Hyatt in Poipu, you’re in for a treat. Not only are the grounds of the hotel gorgeous, but it also puts you close to Shipwreck Beach, where you can watch crazy people cliff dive, or pretend you might do it, then go get a Mai Tai instead.

Evening plan: Book a sunset dinner cruise to see the Nā Pali Coast. I’m not saying it will change your life… but I’m also not not saying that.

Day 5: Waimea Canyon Adventure

Wake up early and head out to what’s often called the Grand Canyon of the Pacific. It’s jaw-droppingly beautiful, and the drive itself is part of the fun, assuming no one in your car gets carsick on windy roads.  The drive from the Grand Hyatt to Waimea Canyon Lookout is an hour and remote.  Make sure you have gas, breakfast, and coffee before you leave Poipu.

You’ll be back in time for lunch and a lazy afternoon at the pool or beach. The Grand Hyatt is maybe the only hotel where I haven’t had problems finding chairs at the pool around lunchtime. 

If you want a beach, go to Poipu Beach Park.  This beach is not only popular for its clear, warm waters and reef-protected swimming areas, great for beginner snorkeling, but also for the opportunity to see Hawaiian monk seals and sea turtles.

A bonus, the beach is well-maintained and has picnic facilities, restrooms, and a lifeguard service. Parking is available, but it can fill up quickly during peak hours.

Day 6: Turtles, Seals, Surf & Luau

Your last full day should be all about soaking it in. Head to the pool or go to your favorite beach on the island and enjoy the beauty of Kauai.

If your crew has energy, consider a surf lesson. Or just let the kids go wild in the waves while you sneak in a Mai Tai and call it a win.

Evening = Luau time. If you are staying at the Grand Hyatt, then an obvious choice is to attend the Luau at the Grand Hyatt. Gorgeous setting, good food, and fire dancers that will have your 6-year-old trying to light sticks on fire in the backyard when you get home.

Yes, Luau is expensive, and yes, it’s cheesy, but in the best way, and absolutely worth doing at least once.

Day 7: Why Can’t We Stay Forever?

Departure day is always the worst day of vacation. This is when I start daydreaming about selling all our stuff and buying a one-bedroom hut with a hammock.

If your flight isn’t until the evening (and many aren’t), squeeze in a final stroll, umbrella drink, or one last dip in the ocean.  As much as I know you don’t want to leave the island, airport security at LIH can be hit or miss.  We have TSA pre-check, and so did everyone else who was at the airport with us. 

It stinks to get to the airport too early, especially an airport like LIH without a lounge or many restaurant options but its better than dealing with missing a flight.  If you haven’t tried the local dish Loco Moco, the café in LIH offers the amazing opportunity. 

Most flights connect through Honolulu, so be ready for a little island-hopping on your way back to reality. If you are a lounge lover like me, you are out of luck in Lihue, but the Plumeria Lounge in Honolulu is acceptable. 

Final Thoughts About One Week In Kauai

Kauai is pure magic. Wild, lush, low-key, and just the right amount of rugged. Whether it’s your first visit or your fifth, it has a way of grabbing hold of your heart and your Zillow app.

So pack your sandals, rent that car, and get ready for a week you’ll never forget. And if you find yourself googling “how to move to Kauai with kids” on Day 7… don’t say I didn’t warn you.

Frequently Asked Questions About a One Week Trip to Kauai

1. Do I really need to rent a car on Kauai?
Yes. A hundred times yes. Unless your dream trip involves staying in one hotel the whole time and skipping all the waterfalls, beaches, and scenic drives, just rent the car. Kauai is rural, and public transport isn’t going to cut it if you want to explore beyond the hotel pool.

2. Is one week enough time in Kauai?
Honestly? You’ll leave wishing you had more time. But yes, one week is enough to experience the island’s best beaches, try an adventure or two, and still relax. This itinerary is designed to give you a mix of downtime and bucket-list fun without burning out.

3. What’s the difference between the North Shore and South Shore?
The North Shore feels more wild, lush, and local—it’s all waterfalls, jungle hikes, and little beach towns like Hanalei. The South Shore is sunnier and more resort-friendly, with family-friendly beaches and fancy luaus. I always split the trip to get the best of both worlds.

4. Can I swim at every beach in Kauai?
Nope! Some beaches (like Hanakāpīʻai Beach) are drop-dead gorgeous but have dangerous currents—look, don’t touch. Stick to lifeguarded spots like Poipu Beach or Hanalei Bay (my favorite beach) if you’re unsure, and always check conditions. Kauai doesn’t mess around when it comes to ocean safety.

5. What should I pack for Kauai?
Reef-safe sunscreen (mandatory, although no one has ever checked, and it’s kinda confusing to know what to buy), a light rain jacket (especially for the North Shore), bug spray, a dry bag, and a big ol’ beach bag for towels and snacks. Oh, and if you’re planning to hike, don’t wear your brand-new white sneakers. You’ll regret it by mile one.

6. What’s the best time of year to visit Kauai?
Kauai is pretty much always beautiful.  I’ve been at the end of May/early June, the end of October, and the middle to end of November, and never had awful weather. 

7. Are luaus worth the money?
If you’re on the fence—yes, do it. Yes, a Luau is pricey, but it’s a whole experience: dinner, music, storytelling, fire dancing, the works.

8. Can I do the Nā Pali Coast hike with kids?
You can start the trail with kids, especially the first two miles to Hanakāpīʻai Beach. But beyond that, it gets intense. Unless your kids are seasoned hikers, I’d recommend stopping at the beach, enjoying the views, and calling it a win.

9. Do I need to worry about cell service or Wi-Fi?
Kauai is not the place to rely on perfect reception. You’ll likely lose service in more remote areas (like Waimea Canyon), and Wi-Fi can be spotty at best in vacation rentals. Download maps ahead of time and take the opportunity to unplug a bit, you’re on island time now.