Our Kauai Favorites: Where We Actually Go

Kauai is the most lush, laid-back of the Hawaiian islands — think rainforest vibes, sleepy towns, and dramatic coastlines. It’s not about fancy restaurants or nightlife here; it’s about poke counters, sunsets, and exploring one of the most beautiful islands on earth.

The main tourist hubs are Princeville, Kapaʻa, and Poipu — each with its own vibe.

Princeville & Hanalei 🌴

Princeville sits up on the cliffs of the North Shore. It’s golf-centric, with fewer ocean views, and because it’s the rainforest side, you’ll probably get a little rain each day. Upside? A super strong community, a weekly farmers market, and a cool resort to stop by for a sunset cocktail, Timbers Kauai, perched with epic views. If your up for doing extra research and done some tricky climbs/crawls/scrambles the Queen's Bath is in Princeville. 

The real perk: it’s just down the hill from Hanalei, one of our favorite beach towns in all of Hawaii. We will stop by Hanalei several times on a trip, its a super cute town. Hanalei Bay has a wide, stunning beach that feels like the end of the world. While you’re in town:

• Grab a bowl at Wishing Well Shave Ice

• Hang out on the beaches in Hanalei 

• Stroll the little shops and boutiques

• Stock up at the Hanalei farmers market if you’re there on a Saturday
  
  

👉 Note: the Foodland in Princeville is pricey. Do your big grocery runs in Kapaʻa.

Beaches we love nearby:

• Hanalei Bay – gorgeous, still quiet, end-of-the-road vibes

• Anini Beach – calm snorkeling, very local, chill

Kapaʻa: Our Favorite Base 🏝️

Kapaʻa feels like Kihei on Maui — a central, slightly scrappy beach town with food trucks, poke shops, and a slower pace. It’s also the most affordable place to stay.

Coffee & Breakfast:

• Java Kai (locations in Kapaʻa, Kīlauea, Kōloa) – our daily go-to

• Kalalea Juice Hale – smoothies & açai bowls on the way to Princeville
  
  

Poke & Local Eats:

• Pono Market – classic poke counter

• Kintaro Japanese – local favorite for sushi

• Wailua Drive-In – real local plates

• Food trucks all over town!
  
  

Happy Hour & Dinner:

• Lava Lava Beach Club – toes in the sand, evening live music, happy hour Mai Tais

Quick Tips ✅

• Plan ahead: This island is sleepy — lots of food trucks and poke shops close early.

• Pack for rain: North Shore = daily showers.

• Groceries: Do your shopping in Lihue or Kapaʻa to save money.

• Driving: There’s basically one main road — plan extra time for traffic.

👉 That’s Kauai in a nutshell. Think fewer crowds, more nature, and some of the most jaw-dropping scenery you’ll ever see. Keep it casual, chase sunsets, and don’t leave without at least one poke bowl a day.