Kauai Holidays

Why choose Kauai for a holiday?

• A striking mix of coastline, cliffs, waterfalls and red-rock scenery
• A slower, more romantic atmosphere than the more urban Hawaii options
• Plenty to do outdoors without the island feeling overdeveloped
• Good variety for couples, scenic breaks and laid-back beach time
• Strong appeal for Kauai island holidays if you want nature to lead the trip

What should you see and do on Kauai?

Begin with the headline landscapes

The island’s nickname, The Garden Island, makes sense once you start getting around. Waimea Canyon State Park is one of the standout sights, known for its deep red tones and broad valley views, while the Na Pali Coast brings the more dramatic side of Kauai into focus with steep green cliffs and one of the island’s best-known coastal settings.

Spread the smaller sights across the week

Kauai is better when the stops are broken up rather than rushed. Places such as Wailua Falls, Spouting Horn, Tree Tunnel, Koloa Landing, Lawai International Centre and Kukuiolono Park are all worth knowing, but they fit more naturally when folded into a slower day instead of treated like a checklist.

Let the coastline set the tone

A lot of the island’s appeal comes from how easy it is to shift between sightseeing and doing very little. One beach session, one scenic drive, then an unplanned stop for lunch is often enough. A beach holiday works naturally here, especially if the main aim is to spend more time outside than indoors.

Keep one part of the trip for quiet evenings

Kauai doesn’t need much dressing up. This is an island where a good dinner and an early night can feel exactly right after a day out, which is one reason it often appeals for a honeymoon.

Where should you stay on Kauai?

The choice of base can change the shape of the trip quite a bit, because Kauai is less about city access and more about how you want your days to unfold.

• A coastal base works well if the holiday is mainly about beach time and a slower daily rhythm
• A position that helps with driving can make more sense if you want to see several parts of the island
• For luxury stays, the real difference usually comes down to privacy, service and the feel of the setting rather than sheer size

If you’re travelling on deals, it still pays to look closely at where the hotel sits. A lower rate can lose some of its appeal if too much of the holiday ends up spent on the road.

How to plan and book Kauai holidays with Southall Travel

• Southall Travel can help you decide whether Kauai works better on its own or as part of a Hawaii split with Oahu, Maui or the Island of Hawaii
• If scenery is the priority, Southall Travel can help narrow the hotel choice to places that match the quieter pace most people want here
• For current fares, hotel options and package availability, call Southall Travel last minute on 0208 843 4444

Check the latest official travel advice before booking and again before travel, including entry requirements.