The Eastside of Kauai is midway between the lush North Shore and sunny Southside, making it the ideal location for visiting many unique aspects of the island. Ask our knowledgeable concierge about water sports, activities and excursions. Explore the area’s historical sites and preserved parks, including waterfalls, the Wailua River, Fern Grotto, and an ancient Hawaiian village.
After a greeting by traditional Hawaiian musicians playing beautiful island songs, admire a lava rock grotto covered with tropical ferns. Located at the south side of the historic, sacred Wailua River, the area serves as a natural amphitheater, providing powerful acoustics. The trip up the river takes about 40 minutes via a long flat-bottom riverboat. Boats depart every 30 minutes.
Kauai Coffee started in the early 1800’s as McBryde Sugar Company, one of the first sugar growers in Hawaii. It became Kauai Coffee in 1987, creating the delicious estate coffee is now known for. Stop by for a tour, partake in some coffee samples, and wander leisurely through their Gift Shop and Museum.
This prominent landmark was used to light the way for mariners back in 1913, serving as a pivotal navigation aid for ships sailing along the Orient run. The lighthouse remains functional and was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1979. It is the northernmost point of the main Hawaiian Islands and a popular destination for sighting rare sea birds and whale watching.
This quaint but charming museum provides programs and exhibitions focused on Kauai’ s ecology, geology and climatology. The Kokee Museum also provides basic information on trail conditions in Waimea Canyon and the surrounding Kokee State Parks. When looking for educational things to do in Kauai, this is certainly a top pick!
The Na Pali Coast has cliffs towering 3,000 feet into the air, dropping into lush valleys, with mysterious sea caves and numerous waterfalls. This is a popular destination for hiking, camping, and outdoor activities. Take a helicopter, catamaran or zodiac ride to truly experience the beauty of the Na Pali Coast.
In Wailua River State Park, enjoy a stunning 151–foot waterfall that flows over basalt from ancient volcanic eruptions. In Hawaiian, the name “Opaekaa” means rolling shrimp, “opae” being “shrimp,” and “ka’a” for “rolling.” The name dates back to days when the native freshwater shrimp were plentiful in the stream and were seen rolling and tumbling down the falls.
Take a guided tour through beautiful gardens, experience rare, exotic plants and fauna, learn how native plants have been used by many cultures for medicinal purposes, and discover how to process cacao into homemade chocolate. This tour comes highly recommended by many visitors to the island of Kauai.
The sacred Wailua River Valley, a space once reserved only for Hawaiian Royalty, is home to the famed Smith Family Garden Luau. Carrying on a family tradition that began over 60 years ago, food, music, dance, and much more are shared with all who attend this unparalleled Hawaiian celebration. A luau is one event you must experience when visiting Kauai!
On Plantation Hale Suites oceanfront property you’ll find savory Kauai dining at Hukilau Lanai, a popular restaurant serving seafood, steak, dangerously good pupus, and gluten-free options too. With nightly entertainment and a great wine menu, Hukilau Lanai is one of the best restaurants in all of Kauai.
520 Aleka Loop, Kapaa, HI 96746 | (808) 822-0600
A local favorite since 1973, the Bull Shed Restaurant is known for its quality steaks and seafood. Diners can enjoy a special “Catch of the Day” or choose from one of the delicious combination dinners or beef entrees at this local Kapa’a dining destination.
4-796 Kuhio Hwy, Kapaʻa, HI 96746 | (808)822-3791
Executive Chef Mark Arriola serves up a takeout menu of breakfast, lunch and dinner options using the bounty of the island. Perfect for a picnic on the beach, or anywhere you choose, you can enjoy Kauai's finest flavors without all the fuss.
4331 Kauai Beach Drive, Lihue, Kauai, HI 96766
Café Portofino provides a Riviera-like atmosphere with a combination of al fresco and salon dining. There is a variety of specialty pasta, fresh seafood, and veal, homemade gelato and fruit sorbets are prepared daily, and a cappuccino and espresso bar allows you to linger longer over exotic coffees and desserts after dinner.
3481 Ho’olaulea Way, Lihue, HI 96766 | (808) 245-2121
Steps from the beach, with dramatic views of Nawiliwili Bay, Duke’s Barefoot Bar is the perfect spot to waltz in sans shoes and enjoy a cocktail or two. Enjoy a menu including sandwiches, burgers, fish tacos, pizza, Hawaiian local plates and pupus. Don’t forget to order a slice of their famous Hula Pie!
3610 Rice St., Lihue, HI 96766 | (808) 246-9599
Located in the Kukui’ula Village Mall, Merriman’s offers a fine dining experience upstairs with Merriman’s Fish House, as well as a more casual café style dining downstairs with Merriman’s Gourmet Pizza and Burgers. Both menus feature a “Farm to Table” dining concept, with at least 90% of ingredients coming from local sources using sustainable methods.
2829 Ala Kalanikaumaka St., Koloa, HI 96756 | (808) 742-8385
This restaurant is a favorite amongst locals and visitors alike due to its spectacular oceanfront setting on the south shore. A consistent winner of Honolulu Magazine’s Hale Aina Gold Award for Best Kauai Restaurant, The Beach House has earned a worthy reputation. Chef Todd Barrett is known for his creative twists on island favorites.
5022 Lawai Rd., Koloa, HI 96756 | (808) 742-1424
Downtown Kapaa offers a variety of specialty shops and island eateries. There’s also a sporting goods store that carries everything you need to purchase or rent for aquatic activities. Authentic Hawaiian items like vintage maps, fine art, and handcrafted jewelry are also available here.
Downtown Kapaa offers a variety of specialty shops and island eateries. There’s also a sporting goods store that carries everything you need to purchase or rent for aquatic activities. Authentic Hawaiian items like vintage maps, fine art, and handcrafted jewelry are also available here.
2600 Kaumualii Hwy #3, Lihue, HI 96766
