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Bespoke Journeys

3 Days of Adventure in Kaua'i

With jagged mountains towering over ribbons of secret beaches, the Garden Island beckons to adventurous spirits. Grab your courage and choose from a host of adrenaline-pumping excursions, from ziplining and surf lessons to helicopter rides and mountain tubing.

Ziplining and helicopter tours are great ways to experience stunning island views from a new vantage point. Image: Blue HawaiianZiplining and helicopter tours are great ways to experience stunning island views from a new vantage point. Image: Blue Hawaiian
Ziplining and helicopter tours are great ways to experience stunning island views from a new vantage point. Image: Blue Hawaiian

Exploring the Garden Island

The first day in any new location warrants a general tour to understand the lay of the land. And for thrill-seekers, there's no better way to grasp the beauty of Kaua'i than by air.

  • Helicopter Tours: Because much of the island is inaccessible by land, taking flight is a fantastic way to appreciate the splendor of Kaua’i and its dramatic landscape. The Na Pali Coast is unforgettable, with velvety green, mountainous ripples plunging down to deserted white beaches. Your tour will also swing through Waimea Canyon, known as the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific,” and waterfalls made famous by Jurassic Park.

  • Ziplining. Although helicopter rides are exhilarating, ziplining may be the closest you’ll ever feel to flying. Kaua’i has several locations throughout the island, each with varying zip line lengths. And if sitting in a traditional harness isn’t daring enough, you can choose a fly line, which positions you like superman, soaring through the air on your belly. 
Hanalei Bay and Kealia Beach are some of the best areas for surfing on Kaua'i, or float through mountain tunnels on a tube. Image: Go Hawai'iHanalei Bay and Kealia Beach are some of the best areas for surfing on Kaua'i, or float through mountain tunnels on a tube. Image: Go Hawai'i
Hanalei Bay and Kealia Beach are some of the best areas for surfing on Kaua'i, or float through mountain tunnels on a tube. Image: Go Hawai'i

Water Sports

From private boat charters to kayaking, there is a host of ways to see the island from the water. But for those willing to get wet, here are a couple of must-do activities. Learn to ride the waves like a local or travel by water through waterways on a historic plantation.

  • Surf Lessons: With Hawai’i ranking as one of the most famous destinations for surfing, it makes sense to experience the waves in Kaua’i, even if you’re new to the sport. The beauty of the island is that different shores feature varying wave sizes, so beginners might opt for Poipu or Kalapaki, while more seasoned surfers head to the wilder North Shore. Kids 12 years and under can also test their agility, with private or group lessons geared toward younger students.

  • Mountain Tubing. This adventure is more than a summertime float down a lazy river. Guests are transported by ATVs to the launch spot, where they’ll gear up with helmets and headlamps. Although the water moves at a leisurely pace, guests will move through tunnels and canals, savoring picturesque mountain views along the way.
Discover the hidden beaches and waterfalls of Kaua'i - many only accessible off the beaten path, by boat or hiking.Discover the hidden beaches and waterfalls of Kaua'i - many only accessible off the beaten path, by boat or hiking.
Discover the hidden beaches and waterfalls of Kaua'i - many only accessible off the beaten path, by boat or hiking.

Daring Journeys

Kaua’i has no shortage of challenging excursions, but perhaps the most demanding adventures are on foot. With its jagged, 3000-foot mountains, Kauai's Na Pali coast boasts some of the most difficult terrain to navigate and a host of trails for those brave enough to try. Here are some of our local guides' favorite highlights.

  • Kalalau Trail & Crawler’s Ledge. The complete 22-mile trail (roundtrip) is the most notorious on Kaua’i. As you begin at the trailhead, multiple signs warn about difficult conditions, imploring you to stay hydrated and wear hiking boots. This all-day trek has river crossings and a treacherous cliff section, known as Crawler’s Ledge, but the results are worth it. Incredible clifftop views and two secluded beaches reward hikers, with camping permits available for those who want an overnight break.

  • Hanakapi'ai Beach & Falls. Following the Kalalau Trail for the first 2 miles, this excursion features impressive vistas, a secret beach, and a magical mountain waterfall. And don’t be fooled by its popularity—despite being shorter than the Kalalau Trail, this 7.7-mile (round trip) hike requires planning and stamina on wet, slippery trails. Hanakapi'ai Beach is about the halfway point and a good turnaround place for those who want a shorter hike.

  • Wailua Falls Near Līhuʻe.  If dangerous hikes aren’t appealing but you still want to experience the wild beauty of Kaua’i, take a drive to Wailua Falls. The majestic force of the double waterfalls is impressive as they careen off a cliff into a tranquil pool. Visitors are not allowed to hike down to the falls, but the viewing area offers superb photo ops. 



A private villa or vacation rental offers relaxed indoor/outdoor living - the perfect base for your Kaua'i adventure. Featured Haven No. 464401A private villa or vacation rental offers relaxed indoor/outdoor living - the perfect base for your Kaua'i adventure. Featured Haven No. 464401
A private villa or vacation rental offers relaxed indoor/outdoor living - the perfect base for your Kaua'i adventure. Featured Haven No. 464401

Where to Stay in Kaua'i

Your perfect jumping off point for a tropical adventure in Kaua'i? A private villa or vacation rental from our collection of handpicked havens. Outfitted with full kitchen, lanai, and incredible views of the island, your island home will provide a convenient base for exploring and an idyllic retreat for unwinding after an active day of island adventures.

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