Things to Do
We're so grateful that friends and family are making the journey to Hawai'i to celebrate our wedding! We know many of you will be turning this into a full holiday, and we hope you have the most beautiful time exploring the island. This will be our first time on Kaua'i too, so we're just as excited to discover it alongside you. Below are some recommendations that we've gathered from plenty of research to help you make the most of your stay.
Where to Eat
Please note: Restaurants do close earlier than most places on the mainland. Reservations are encouraged.
Casual & Quick
Dolphin Fish Market
Small to-go kitchen with crab sushi rolls and poké by the pound. Sit-down dinner at night with river views.
Wishing Well Shave Ice & Coffee
Organic shave ice truck plus a coffee shop around the corner. Great for a lazy afternoon.
Food Trucks in Hanalei
- Trucking Delicious
- Turmeric
- Fresh Bite Kauai
- Holey Grail Donuts
- Tiki Tzatziki (Greek)
Sit Down Dining
Restaurants do close earlier than most places on the mainland. Reservations are encouraged.
Fine Dining
Welina Terrace at 1 Hotel Hanalei Bay
Open-air restaurant offering Japanese-inspired small plates, handcrafted cocktails, and live local music.
Common Ground
Seasonal, gluten-free, and cow-dairy-free dining experience that uses 100% locally sourced ingredients from their own farm and neighboring Hawaiian producers.
Activities
Adventure Tours
Go Blue Adventure — Zodiac Boat tour of the Nā Pali Coast (Recommended!)
"I've done this tour twice... an absolute MUST when in Kauai. Disclaimer for guests prone to seasickness: this ride is for adventure seekers and definitely can get bumpy. Reserve in advance!"
Napali Coast Tours
Explore all the best ways to visit the Napali Coast by boat. Pick the boat type and price right for you!
Explore the secluded trails of the North Shore.
Hiking
Waimea Canyon State Park — the "Grand Canyon" of Hawaii
Kalalua Lookout — Koke State Park
Awa'awapuhi Trail
Hāʻena State Park Access
Snorkel. Hike. Preserve. A lot of pre-planning goes into visiting, but it's well worth it.
Surfing
Various adventure rentals.
Kayaking
They offer morning and afternoon guided tours as well as rental options if you'd prefer to take a DIY trip. You can launch your kayak right from their dock and either paddle upriver to Hanalei Bridge or downriver to Hanalei Bay.
Others
Field Trips for Shelter Dogs
Give a shelter dog a break from the kennels and take them on an adventure with you.
Town Activities
Sightseeing in Hanalei
Hanalei Valley Lookout
A 10-min stop off the side of the road for beautiful views and photos. Kuhio Highway, Princeville across from the shopping center.
Kilauea Lighthouse
Expect to spend 30 minutes taking in the views and walking the area. Entry reservations are required ($10 for visitors age 16+). Open Wed–Sat 10am–4pm.
Hāʻena State Park Access
Snorkel. Hike. Preserve. A lot of pre-planning goes into visiting, but it's well worth it.
Relaxation
Spas
Honest Rituals Kauai
A beautiful small spa right in Princeville, known for buccal facials, sculptural massages, and the best pedicures on the island.
Bamford Wellness Spa @ 1 Hotel Hanalei Bay
This is the easiest option if you're staying at 1 Hotel. The Lomi Lomi massage comes highly recommended.
Hanalei Day Spa
The only spa on the island offering massages in private A-frame huts right on the beach.
Beaches
Hanalei Bay
Long stretches of sand, mountain views, and surfers of all skill levels. Food options within walking distance.
Hideaways Beach
Quieter than most, with a short trek down. Valet for free at the 1 Hotel Hanalei Bay.
Ke'e Beach
Reservations required. At the base of the Nā Pali Coast trail. The most beautiful sunset spot on the island. Great snorkeling when conditions permit. Book passes up to 30 days in advance.
Tunnels Beach
Named for the lava tubes just below the water. Great for watching experienced surfers. Go early for parking.
Poipu Beach (South Shore)
Sunny when the North Shore is rainy. Family-friendly, great for snorkeling.
designed with love by nicole.
creative direction by jared.
built by her bridesmaid megan.