4-Day Kauai Itinerary
Where to stay: Banyon Harbor condos in Lihue – this is a short drive from the airport, within walking distance to the beach and souvenir shops.
Tip: I would highly recommend renting a car. While Ubers are available here, they are very sparse and a bit difficult to come by.
Day 1
Kipu Ranch ATVs
We booked the 8 AM – 1 PM slot for the Kipu Ranch ATV ride to start our first day off with a rush of adventure and excitement while also working up a HUGE appetite for lunch. The beauty seen at this ranch was absolutely beautiful and it was where the first Jurassic Park was filmed. Our tour guides were amazing and honestly just hilarious.
For lunch, we indulged in some of the freshest poke I have ever eaten at Koloa Fish Market. The fish here is some of the best and freshest fish and don’t forget the SPAM!! I tried SPAM here for the first time and all I can say is don’t be too quick to judge because it was quite delicious!
Once we had lunch, we headed back to our condo to change into our bikinis, walk over to Kalapaki beach, and just relax. This is more of a low-key and local beach but the perfect space to lay and relax. This is located right behind Duke’s Kauai bar, so catch the sunset here while sipping on your favorite cocktail or mocktail.
For dinner, I would suggest staying around this area - maybe even staying around this area
Day 2
Catamaran
Catamaran – 6:45 AM – 1 PM Na’pali boat tour and snorkeling; Kauai Sea Tours
We booked the 6:45 - 1 PM boat tour through Kauai Sea Tours for the same reason as Day 1, to work up a huge appetite and have the rest of the day to explore this part of the island. Although it was early, we’re glad we booked for this slot because we got to catch the sunrise two days in a row. This is a boat tour of the Na’pali coast with snorkeling included and it is worth every penny and time. It was amazing watching the dolphins beside us as we were sailing and seeing the views of the cliffs. However, if you’re someone who gets motion sick, take motion sickness medicine!! Even if you’re on the fence about if you’ll need it or not, take it. The waters out by the Na’pali coast are so choppy. I will say, though, don’t let this discredit the beauty of the view when you see the cliffs of Na’pali, and don’t let feeling sick ruin your time on this boat tour.
For lunch, I would suggest Kauai Island Brewery. It’s easy, simple, and right across from Kauai Sea Tours.
For dinner, catch the sunset at Welina Terrace. This is a modern, upscale sushi restaurant so it will be on the higher side for price point but the views from this restaurant are just incredible. I am speechless just trying to type about it! The terrace looks over the ocean and you can see the mountains in the distance. During sunset, the sun starts to set over the ocean and mountains and it is the most picturesque and serene sunset you will ever see.
Day 3
½ day Kayak and waterfall hike tour with lunch
Or drive up the mountain to see the views of the hiking trails
So on our third day, we got up pretty early and we actually drove up to Wailua Falls and the views from the top of the cliffs of where the majority of the hiking trails ended. We drove up to see most of the lookout points, one of the famous ones being Puuo Kila. As you drive up the mountain, you will usually pass signs for the different lookout points where you can stop and see the view.
However, if you’re looking for more of an excursion to do, I would suggest doing a half-day kayak and waterfall tour. Most of these tours have lunch included which is amazing and usually provide all of the equipment needed. What you would have to keep in mind is to bring closed-toed shoes and teva-style sandals if you take a dip in the secret falls after the hike.
Shop around
Dinner – keokis beach
Day 4
Poipu Beach
Lauai @ Sheraton
On the last day, we just grabbed some breakfast from Jack in the Box and headed straight for the beach. Poipu beach is BEAUTIFUL and captures the quintiessential beach backdrop that you would think of when you think of Hawaii. We skipped lunch on this day because we wanted to save our appetite for the Lauai and it was the best decision. Be sure to leave the beach early so you have time to get ready back at the condo and can make it to the Lauai in time!