City Guide: Kaua'i, HI
Known as the “Garden Isle,” Kauai is stunning, refreshing, and invigorating - need I say more? In case I do, I will add - Hawaiian culture values “ohana” (family), and you can really feel that love and adoration as you witness the locals interact with “keiki” (children). Kauai is a welcoming place for a family vacation and the perfect spot to slow down and reconnect.
Between 100k and 140k people visit Kauai each month. It would be natural to think the island would feel “touristy.” We found this far from the truth, and instead, the natural charm and traditions seem to be preserved. In fact, I was surprised at how rural the island felt, with long stretches of road without any buildings. It truly felt like a getaway, and we quickly eased into ‘island time’!
We have created the perfect 5 day Kauai Itinerary for your family, using many of the toddler-friendly suggestions below!
Lihue Airport (LIH)
Kauai is serviced by the Lihue Airport (LIH) on the island's southeast coast. It is a tiny airport, with only eight gates. You will be at baggage claim within minutes of disembarkation. Upon departure, you should know that check-in and TSA are located outdoors, in a pavilion. Your bags will need to be scanned for agriculture (anything pulpy is a no-go), which can cause slowdowns.
Additionally, the airport is under construction, which causes a little congestion and navigational confusion. The airport is busy for its size, especially right before take-off. Give yourself peace of mind and arrive up to one to two hours early, longer if traveling during the holidays.
Transportation
Most visitors rent a car to explore the island or get a taxi/rideshare to their resort and stay put for the most part. However, due to supply and demand, car rentals can be pricey - or downright cost-prohibitive. In response, the island has created a website helping visitors find transportation on the island. There is also a bus system, which can be accessed using the Kauai Bus App. However, frequency is limited, sometimes an hour in between pickups. It makes the most sense to rent a vehicle with a toddler - consider renting a local’s car for your visit, using the car-sharing app, Turo.
Strollers & Carriers
While Kauai is a world-class destination, part of its charm is that it is untouched, rugged, and rural. This also means sidewalks and paved walkways are few and far between. Expect to walk on sand, rocks, and dirt everywhere, except at resort properties. On the other hand, the hikes are unreal! For these reasons, we would suggest bringing a backpack-style hiking carrier over a stroller for your visit to Kauai. An umbrella-style stroller may come in handy around a resort property.
Packing Suggestions
It goes without saying - pack a hat, swimsuit, sunglasses, and sunscreen. Better yet, purchase sunscreen on the island, as they only sell reef-safe options. Bring water shoes and snorkel gear if you plan on snorkeling on your own. Interested in hiking? We strongly recommend mosquito repellent and hiking boots (not sneakers) as the daily tropical rain mixed with the shady canopies make for slippery terrain.
Chris carrying our son in a hiking backpack
Toddler Rental Equipment
Unable to pack everything you need? Rent Babygear has everything you need from life vests to pack-n-plays, high chairs, beach toys, and shade. Use “NANASLIST” for 10% off. Another convenient rental option is BabyQuip.
Otherwise, just eight minutes from the airport are Costco, Target, Walmart, and several thrift stores to pick up anything you didn’t have the space to pack. We picked up some great beach toys for $1 at a local thrift store and donated them to other kids at our resort when we left. Many resorts will have sunscreen and pool floaties for rent or purchase. However, depending on the size of your toddler, they may not have appropriate swim floaties. Call ahead to see what they offer.
Babysitters
Because Kauai is small, it does not have many childcare options. Even locals have a challenging time finding care for their children. However, we were delighted with the services provided by Happy Kids Kauai (part of Happy Kids Maui). Our sitter, Lorna, was easy to schedule with prior to our visit and sent texts and pictures of our toddlers when we were out. We felt our kids were in great hands and enjoyed their time with her. She even brought them small gifts on our last day.
Just know that the locals run on island time, and your babysitter, tour, dinner reservations, and other planned events may not start on time. As long as you go into it with a flexible attitude, you will enjoy yourself!
We have compiled our top choices for toddler-friendly fun in Kauai, HI. To make your life a little easier, we have also added every location mentioned on the interactive google map at the very bottom of this page.
Best Places to Stay in Kauai with a Toddler
For the ability to visit all areas of the island during your stay, I would recommend the Poipu/Koloa area. If you are planning an extended trip and want to change locations during your visit, then Princeville/Hanalei areas in the north are also a good choice. Both have stunning views and swimmable beaches, and there are enough restaurants and stores to keep things exciting. The north tends to have rougher water and get more rain in the winter, so keep that in mind if you are looking for a sunny vacation.
Suggested Lodging: Grand Hyatt Kauai (check out our review) or any one of the great Airbnb options
I wouldn’t suggest staying in Lihue toward the east of the island unless you want to spend equal time in both the north and south and have a car to travel. Though not a large city by any means, Lihue seems to be the island’s version of a business center. When you arrive, I would suggest a quick grocery stop and then head out to the more quaint villages.
Did you know you cannot circumnavigate the island by car? That’s right! The canyons and ravines make it, so the island's northwest side (in the Koke’e State Park region) is largely unnavigable by vehicle.
Best Indoor Activities with a Toddler
Bad news first - there really isn’t much to do with a toddler indoors. Even McDonald’s doesn’t have a play place. If you gotta get out but need to stay inside, I suggest Waimea Theater and hope they have something toddler-friendly playing that week. The Kauai Museum in Lihue would be your next best option and a bonus that kids under seven years are free. Or post up at one of the restaurants highlighted below and play a game.
Ready for the good news? There is so much to do outside (see below), and you are probably visiting to enjoy nature anyway! Even when it rains, it usually doesn’t last for long, and it is reasonably warm. Grab an umbrella and comfortable weatherproof shoes, and embrace the adventure.
Best Outdoor Activities with a Toddler
Parks & Playgrounds
Kamalani Playground (across from Lydgate Beach Park) - This massive playground is unlike any you have ever been to, with its maze-like wooden structure and unique apparatuses. There are abundant seating areas for caregivers. Your toddler (and older kids) will be entertained for hours and not want to leave. There is also an inclusive playground area scheduled to be open in Spring 2022.
Anaina Hou Community Playground - Highlighting the best of Hawaii history, including volcanoes, canoes, and a sugarcane train! Open Sunday-Friday 8:30am-4:30pm.
Kukui Grove Center (mall) Keiki Korner - If you need a quick stretch break, this play area will fit the bill with a small slide and climbing areas. Located outside the Spectrum store.
Poipu Beach Playground - A small but new play structure with a bit of shade. If you want a beach, grassy area to run around, and playground, this will fit the bill! There is a toddler play cove around the east side of the beach.
Activities & Excursions
Kilohana Plantation ($) - The grounds of this establishment are both expansive and picturesque. They offer Koloa Rum Tasting and a Rum Safari (21+), a fancy restaurant, a luau, and a plantation train ride through the farmlands, where your family can feed pigs, goats, sheep, and a donkey.
Tahitian dancing and live music - Every Monday and Thursday at 5pm, enjoy free live entertainment, including Tahitian dancing, fire knife dancers, and music at the Poipu Shopping Village
Luau ($) - We love a good luau! Sure we get that they are “touristy,” but they are also educational, awe-inspiring, and tasty! Of course, luaus are likely one of the pricier things you might do on your vacation. Our favorite budget-conscious luau’s on Kauai are the Smith’s Garden Luau (under 3yrs are free, and 3-6 yrs are only $25) and Luau Makaiwa (under 4yrs are free, and 4-12yrs are $65), though there are plenty others luaus to consider. Keep in mind that luaus tend to start around sunset, and with jet lag, you may want to consider a luau close to your hotel, or make this a date night and get a babysitter to stay with the little ones.
Smith’s Wailua River Cruise to the Fern Grotto ($ 2+) - Along the gentle 2-mile journey to the grotto, guests will take a hula lesson, hear cultural stories, and learn about the hanging ferns growing upside-down in the grotto! This 1.5 hr trip is perfect for all ages!
Farmer’s Markets - We enjoyed picking out the perfect pineapple and drinking from a freshly cut coconut at the Kauai Culinary Market at the Kukuiula Shopping Village. There are markets all around the island throughout the week! Stock up on delicious tropical produce!
Na Tina Kai Botanical Garden and Sculpture Park - Exotic and tropical flora at every turn! The self-guided tour is perfect for families with little ones. Be sure to plan ahead as reservations are required.
Hikes & Lookouts
Waimea Canyon Lookout ($ Parking) - Probably the most well-known view on the island, a stunning expanse that rivals the Grand Canyon. Follow the signs for the lookout, and pay for a parking pass (good throughout the park). There is an easy short walk up to the lookout - no need to bring the carrier here.
Opaekaa Falls View - Just about two miles inland from Wailua, this lookout has well-marked signage for those wishing to catch a view of the 151-foot waterfall. Difficult to see when it is cloudy or misty - best to stop by on a clear day.
Iliau Nature Loop Trail - An easy 0.4-mile hike that can take 10-15 minutes and provides a few great lookouts. Many signs help hikers identify plants along the way. A carrier isn't necessary if your toddler is sure on their feet and will hold your hand.
Maha’ulepu Heritage Trail - At 3.7 miles, out and back, this is a moderate hike with some unsure footing. Hikers recommend beating the heat by heading out early, bringing water, and wearing close-toed shoes. There are beautiful views of the ocean from the cliffs, tide pools, lava formations, and a lot of wind! We recommend your toddler be in a backpack-style hiking carrier for this one.
Puu Poa Beach Trail - A short and easy 1.6 mile, out and back trail with easy terrain, even shortly after rain. This trail drops you off at a small beach with some toddler-friendly areas. To reach the trailhead, pass the closed gate on the right, and another closed gate a few hundred feet down the trail. The gates are to stop vehicles only.
Kailua Ridge Trail - This lush 3.6-mile, out and back hike is easy to moderate, with some slick areas and foliage reminiscent of Jurassic Park. Hikers recommend good hiking shoes that can get muddy, water, sun protection, and snacks. Definitely bring a hiking backpack to carry your toddler, though there may be some areas they can walk themselves, depending on the recent weather.
Beaches
Anini Beach (Summer only) - With white sand and calm, shallow waters, this tranquil beach is perfect for your little one to explore the ocean without the crowds! Beware, in the winter, the beaches in the north can be dangerous. While there is no lifeguard on site, there are restrooms, showers, and picnic tables.
Hanalei Bay (Summer only) - Amazing views, lots of beach to spread out, calm waters for toddlers, and surfable waves for the older ones! There are endless options at this world-class beach! Rent boards at nearby Hanalei Surfboard Rentals. Toward the west side of the beach, there is a river inlet perfect for toddlers, and to the far east, the Hanalei Pier area has very calm waters. You will also get a stunning sunset from this beach! While there is no lifeguard on site, there are restrooms, showers, and picnic tables.
Lydgate Beach Park - Two rock-enclosed lagoons create the ideal environment for little ones to try out snorkeling. Your family is covered with a lifeguard on duty, restrooms, showers, picnic tables, and the massive Kamalani playground (noted above)!
Poipu Beach - Not only will you see gorgeous waters, but you are likely to see turtles and endangered monk seals enjoying this beach! The east side of the beach has a shallow toddler area protected by rocks. Nearby, you can grab some grub at a deli or sit down for a meal at Brennecke’s Beach Broiler. This beach has a lifeguard, restrooms, showers, and picnic tables.
Salt Pond Beach - Two great beach activities at one beach! Toddlers can snorkel or swim on the western side of the beach and check out the tide pools on the eastern side. Lifeguards, restrooms, showers, and picnic tables are available.
Toddler-Friendly Restaurants
Tiki Iniki - This tiki restaurant has strong drinks for the parents and welcomes kids! We enjoyed the Teriyaki Burger and Kalua Pork Mix Plate. Our son loved the mashed purple sweet potatoes!
Tahiti Nui - A casual restaurant with a Tahitian vibe and extensive cocktail menu. It gets busy at night with live music starting at 6:30pm, so bring your family early as there may be a wait, and they do not take reservations.
Keoki’s Paradise (Koloa location) - The vibe is iconically Hawaiian, and the live music establishes a laid-back mood. While our meals were small for the price, we enjoyed our time! Our toddler ate some of our food and a side of steamed veggies. We celebrated a birthday and were treated to a Hula Pie, which was enough to feed two families! Reservations recommended.
Food Trucks - You can’t visit without checking out the food truck scene! We recommend going to food truck parks located all over all the island - even picky eaters will have great options!
Kenji Burger (multiple locations) - Satisfying Asian fusion burgers and sushi at the most reasonable prices we have seen in all of Kauai!
Cabana Bar and Grill - A good restaurant with a straightforward menu and an area for kids to play!
Island Taco - Don’t expect “Mexican” food here, but instead delicious island-style pork tacos! A casual grab-n-go stand with some outdoor seating. The tortilla chips have the perfect balance of crispy and salty.
Kauai’i Island Brewery & Grill - This friendly brewery has a kid’s menu and some pinball machines that might entertain your little one for a bit.
Bubba Burger - A burger joint with a sarcastic vibe and greasy burgers that some swear by! The burgers are small, but they warn you so you can make the right choice for your family. Order online to avoid any long lines.
Breakfast - There are so many cute and tasty little breakfast cafes on the island. Our favorites for Anuenue Cafe and Little Fish Coffee in Poipu, and Kauai Bakery and Coffee in Lihue.
Shave Ice - In Hawaii, do as the locals do - eat shave ice! There are many good locations, but here are a few - Wailua Shave Ice, Wishing Well Shave Ice, JoJo’s Shave Ice, and The Fresh Shave.
Adult Adventures
If it’s in the cards to get a babysitter for your kid(s), check out these 21+ or otherwise not suitable for toddler restaurants and experiences:
Koloa Rum Tasting (Free) - A true adults-only activity on the Kilohana Plantation Grounds. You will need to sign up for a tasting time at the gift shop, which runs every half hour. We loved the history and the booze from our tasting and wished we had purchased more rum cakes!
Hiking - Get out there and enjoy the rugged trails that would be too nerve-wracking with a toddler! The once-in-a-lifetime views at the end of the Awa’awapuhi Trail, the double waterfalls on the Wailua Falls Trail, or the secluded pool on the Queen's Bath Trail (caution: gates are closed when it is too dangerous to visit).
Snorkeling/Scuba Diving - Due to the calmer waters, the south side of the island has better snorkeling in the winter, though we heard Tunnels Beach was teeming with sea life when we visited in late March. We saw the most beautiful schools of fish and a sea turtle on our baby-free excursion to Koloa Landing and Lawa’i Beach. But bring your snorkel gear to any beach, and you are likely to find sea life hanging around the rocks and reefs.
Take a Tour ($) - Leave all the logistics to someone else! These moments are precious! Take a boat tour to Na Pali Kai (not sponsored), where you can explore one of the island’s best beaches, explore sea caves, and go dolphin watching. Or enjoy a mountain tubing adventure through Kauai’s abandoned sugar cane flumes - you can even bring your five years and older kids on this easygoing float. Our friends loved their combined hike and kayak tour through the lush rainforest to Secret Falls.
Dinner - Have a slow, relaxing dinner without accidentally kneeing a high chair. Our mouths are watering looking at the great options at The Beach House, Bar Acuda, JO2 Restaurant, and The Eating House.
Enjoying the sand and sea at Hanalei Bay.
Check out the perfect 5 day Kauai Itinerary for your family, using many of the toddler-friendly suggestions below!
This interactive google map has every location listed in this blog to make your trip that much easier. Click the “expand” square in the top right banner. Be sure to save the link to this page or save the map to “Your Places” in Google Maps, to use on your trip!
What do you think of this list? Any place you would add? Share in the comments!
