Fuel your list of things to do on Kauai with this guide to Kapaa area attractions. Should you decide to stay, our new Eastside Collection of Kauai vacation rentals features dazzling Hale Awaphui with two-bedrooms and central air-conditioning. Now with special introductory rates not to be missed.
Destination Guide to Kapaa
From buzzy stores, to sun drenched beaches and hikes with a view, Kapaa features something for everyone. Here is our insider list of what’s happening.
Walk or Bike the Kauai Coastal Path.
Embrace the ocean as you walk or ride next to the shore. Pack a swimsuit to enjoy the Kauai beaches along the way and bring a picnic lunch. Seldom hilly and free of cars, the Kauai Path stretches for miles between Lydgate Park, Kapaa town and all the way north to Donkey Beach. Bicycle rentals are available at Coconut Coasters.
Try Kauai Hiking at Sleeping Giant.
Take the East Trail which is the more moderate route and has a 960 foot elevation gain to the top of the giant’s head. A 360 degree view awaits you. See our six tips to enjoy this exhilarating hike.
Take a Boat Ride to Fern Grotto on the Wailua River.
Step back in time with this classic Hawaii experience. Operated by the Smith family since 1946, their open air boat tours to the Fern Grotto depart four times daily from the Wailua Marina State Park. Entertainment on board features Hawaiian musicians and hula dancers.
Pick your Favorite Eastside Kauai Beaches.
- Kapaa Beach Park: In the olden days this is where canoes stopped to get their bearings before making a beeline directly across the channel to Oahu. Located in the heart of Kapaa town.
- Fuji Beach: Famous for its long limestone shelf that creates a shallow tide pool for all ages to enjoy. You can drive right up to the sand making it accessible for everyone.
- Kealia Beach: Picture perfect and 150 feet wide and a half-mile long, this is the first beach north of Kapaa. There is a lifeguard, restrooms and picnic shelters.
- Lydgate: A place for family celebrations and Hawaiian culture for centuries. Long ago the ancient Hawaiians built their Hikinaakala Heiau (temple) on this splendid Kauai beach to honor the sun. Perfect for all ages with snorkeling and a seawater pool.
- Donkey Beach: Also known as Kuna Bay, this beautiful Kauai beach has pristine sand shaded by ironwood trees. This is where the Kauai Coastal Path ends. No lifeguard is on duty and swimming is not recommended.
Find Inner Om at a Hindu Temple.
No matter what your religious belief, you can learn something new or find serenity visiting here. Founded in 1970, two traditional Saivite Hindu temples are located on the monastery’s 363 acres. The lush temple grounds, with views of Wailua River, are open to the public daily.
Play the Wailua Golf Course.
Arnold Palmer called the 17th hole one of his favorites. This municipal Kauai golf course plays more like one at a 5-star resort. The front nine are flatter with ocean views. Look for more hills on the back nine. Fairways are forgiving and still challenging for all levels with great par 3’s.