Are you planning a trip to Kauai for 2024 and want to start working on your Hawaii itinerary? Check out these awesome things to do in Kauai with kids!
This list of the best things to do in Kauai with kids was written by family travel expert Marcie Cheung and may contain affiliate links, which means if you click on the link and purchase the item, I will receive an affiliate commission at no extra cost to you. All opinions remain my own.
Are you planning a trip to Kauai? Still thinking of things to do in Kauai with kids?
You’ve come to the right place! I’ve visited Kauai more than 25 times! Check out this list of the best things to do in Kauai with kids!
If you’re looking for an island getaway that’s relaxing but also has plenty of fun activities for your family, then look no further than beautiful Kauai. The Garden Isle is filled with amazing beaches and lush landscapes that are perfect for exploring.
But what about all those other little people who will be tagging along? There are so many wonderful places on the island where they can have just as much fun as their parents while learning something new at every turn.
If you’re looking for kid-friendly attractions, activities, restaurants, and more, look no further. This list will help you plan your perfect family vacation.
From beaches and waterfalls to luaus and train rides – there’s something for everyone on this island paradise. Kauai’s natural beauty is a big part of what makes every adventure feel magical for kids and adults alike.
Keep scrolling for my top 25 things to do in Kauai.
Need help planning? Save time and money with this Kauai with Kids guidebook!
Want a Hawaii travel guide? I’ve got detailed guides and 7-day itineraries!
25 Best Things to Do in Kauai with Kids
1. Play at Anaina Hou Community Park
One of the best playgrounds on Kauai is at Anaina Hou Community Park up in Kilauea on the North Shore of Kauai.
They do an excellent job of incorporating Hawaiian culture and promoting the concept of reduce, reuse, recycle. Plus, it’s very “Kauai” and includes a play volcano, sugar cane train, canoe, Hawaiian houses, and more.
There’s also a kid-friendly hiking trail, mini-golf, and a skate park. This park is great for the whole family, offering space for kids to play while parents relax nearby.
2. Go Mountain Tubing Down a Sugar Cane Canal
Kauai mountain tubing is a kid-friendly, easy way to have outdoor fun.
This half-day excursion takes you up into lush mountains and launches you onto sugar cane canals where you’ll wear lamps on your heads when going through old irrigation tunnels.
It’s geared for kids ages 5 and up, and it’s the perfect amount of adventure for the whole family.
3. Attend a Hawaiian Luau on Kauai
This is an opportunity for you and your family to experience a new culture. Many authentic luaus across the Hawaiian islands provide fun activities, delicious food (with options like kalua pork), and beautiful scenery along each venue’s grounds before the show starts!
A favorite place I recommend is Smith Family Luau, where you can also explore on foot prior to the festivities beginning—if only because this location has such gorgeous surroundings right outside its doors.
Another favorite Kauai luau is Luau Kalamaku. It’s the only luau on Kauai with a train ride, and the food and show are fabulous.
Finally, I recommend the Ahi Lele Fire Show up on the North Shore. This is the most unique Kauai luau because the entire show features Polynesian fire dancers!
4. Check out Waimea Canyon
The “Grand Canyon of the Pacific” is an awe-inspiring spot on Kauai.
You’ll drive up a windy road where you can see tons of bright red dirt, little waterfalls, and lovely views of the island of Niihau.
Once at the parking lot, it’s just a short walk to viewing platforms that offer incredible vistas into this natural canyon!
This place has something for everyone. Adventuresome families will love hiking, while others will just soak up all the cool photo spots.
Consider getting a rental car to make exploring Waimea Canyon and other remote parts of the island more convenient.
5. Go Kayaking on the Wailua River
Kauai is a great place to go kayaking. There are several great rivers all over Kauai (the Wailua River is the most popular for kayaking) as well as the ocean.
Most families prefer kayaking on the Wailua River because the water is calm. You can either paddle to Fern Grotto or stop by a secret waterfall. This is a great Kauai activity for families.
For safety, don’t forget to pack life vests and car seats if you’re transporting younger kids to the kayak launch site.
6. Shop at Warehouse 3540
What’s not to love about Warehouse 3540 on the South Shore of Kauai? There are tons of small boutiques here that have set up their shop in this huge building.
If you’re looking for upcycled clothing, handmade soaps, or artwork from local artists, this place has it all!
Plus, they offer storytime weekly with games and activities geared toward kids. Who could ask for anything more out of life than being entertained while waiting around to hear stories?!
You can also grab lunch from the local food trucks outside, offering everything from fresh poke to artisan grilled cheese.
7. Play at Poipu Beach Park
Poipu Beach Park is a great place to visit in Kauai for families with children. The weather is usually sunny, so you can enjoy an afternoon picnic by the water without worrying too much about rain or wind!
This good beach is known for its protected swimming areas, making it ideal for babies and toddlers who want to splash safely.
This same park also has new playground structures and renovated restrooms. Plus, there are tons of other things to do in Poipu with kids!
8. Get a Plate Lunch at Mark’s Place
You won’t find an authentic Hawaiian plate lunch or bento box anywhere better than at Mark’s Place. It is located in the industrial section of Puhi, and you’ll have to take a chance on finding it, but when we did, our meal was worth every bite!
They have great food, like their beef stew (which always disappears quickly) and loco moco, which will leave your taste buds singing for more.
Kids love everything, too, since they offer treats such as Butter Mochi, Hawaiian cookies, and locally made Ono Pops, which are delicious and refreshing.
A sweet treat from Mark’s is the perfect reward after a long day of adventures on the island.
9. Take Silly Photos at the Hawaiian Trading Post
I haven’t met a photo op I didn’t like. And the Hawaiian Trading Post in Lawai has the BEST photo props in Hawaii!
Where else can you pose with a giant yellow pineapple, pretend to surf a wave, and take a selfie with a tiki?
Plus, it’s located in the parking lot of a nice souvenir shop that sells cute Aloha shirts and lots of pretty jewelry.
10. Go Ziplining on Kauai
Ziplining has become really popular in Hawaii. One of the best places to zipline in Hawaii is the island of Kauai. That’s because it’s full of lush tropical jungles!
There’s something about feeling like you are flying that appeals to kids, teens, and adults! Strap in for the ride of your life!
There are plenty of Kauai ziplining excursions available, depending on what you are looking for. Some companies even offer tandem options that are better suited for older kids.
11. See a Kauai Waterfall
There are so many waterfalls on Kauai! Some of the best ways to see them are by helicopter, kayak, or hiking.
Mt Waialeale provides an opportunity for many water lovers, as it’s home to the wettest spot on Earth and has tons of hidden waterfalls.
Some other fantastic spots for Kauai waterfalls include Opaekaa Falls, Wailua Falls, and Kipu Falls, which are found along this island paradise.
A helicopter tour is one of the most exciting ways to view these waterfalls, especially those deep in the interior of the island.
12. Relax at Anini Beach
What’s not to love about Anini Beach up in Princeville?
It has a super long fringing reef, and the water is quite shallow. You’ll see families with young kids, windsurfers, and snorkelers—this place has it all!
The best part about visiting Anini Beach is that you can camp right next door for good old-fashioned beach camping fun.
It’s a great option on Kauai’s North Shore if you’re looking to spend a whole week unwinding with the family.
13. Go Hiking with a Rescue Dog
One of the most unique programs on Kauai is through the Kauai Humane Society. They will let you take one of their rescue dogs out for a day of adventure.
The easiest thing to do with your rescue dog is go hiking. There are tons of dog-friendly hiking trails on Kauai.
And if it’s love at first sight, you can request to adopt your dog. I mean, that’s a pretty awesome Kauai souvenir, right?
14. Walk Across the Hanapepe Swinging Bridge
Hanapepe’s swinging bridge is a super easy attraction to do on the South Shore of Kauai.
It’s located at the edge of Kauai’s “biggest little town,” and it’s a surprising hit with kids. My boys love running across it, as long as no people are there.
This little pedestrian crossing connects residents from town with their counterparts living in Hanapepe, so please be respectful when you cross over!
The Hanapepe Swinging Bridge is just one of the many Instagrammable spots in Kauai. Check out other IG-worthy spots in this blog!
15. Try a Puka Dog
Here’s a tip for visiting Poipu, Hawaii: get some hot dogs at Puka Dog.
It’s basically a hot dog stuffed inside a fluffy roll and then filled with condiments for a uniquely tropical meal.
The taste of their locally made mustard will make your mouth water. And if that’s not enough to convince you, then maybe their location on Anthony Bourdain’s favorite place in all of America should do it!
It’s a fun and easy bite to grab when you’re with little kids who need a quick lunch.
16. Ride the Kauai Bike Path
If you visit the East Shore of Kauai, you’ll want to take advantage of their coastal bike path. It’s a great spot for a morning sunrise walk or an extensive bike ride with kids.
The path goes up and down Kauai’s beautiful Coconut Coast with epic ocean views.
There are several bike rental places on Kauai and some of them even have trailers for babies/toddlers. It’s also a great place to push a stroller if you go to Kauai with a baby.
Book a Family Photo Shoot
Whenever we travel, we almost always book a family photo shoot with Flytographer. They are super easy and affordable AND guarantee that I’ll be in some photos. You can get $25 off if you book through this link.
17. Do a Kauai Food Tour
We love to eat while traveling, and even though I’ve been to Kauai more than 25 times, new spots always open up.
So far, we’ve done two different Tasting Kauai food tours that were incredible! They’re an easy way to try the most famous dishes and the best restaurants. The tours focus on all the different areas of Kauai, so it’s easy to fit them into your itinerary.
These tours are one of the best family friendly activities in Kauai for adventurous foodies.
18. Ride a Train
My boys LOVE doing this train ride on Kauai. We do it every trip, and it’s always a huge hit.
You’ll hop on the train and take a leisurely ride around the Kilohana Plantation, where you’ll learn about the different Hawaiian fruits and crops.
And you’ll get to hop off and feed animals mid-way through. It’s on the same grounds as Luau Kalamaku and Kauai Rum (which has free rum tastings)!
19. See Kilauea Lighthouse
When you explore the beautiful coast of Kauai, don’t forget to stop by Kilauea Lighthouse.
This historic landmark is more than 100 years old and it provides a perfect spot for families who want some peace in their day-to walk along its paths or let kids run wild on the grassy field.
Not only does this lighthouse provide breathtaking views, but it also serves as an animal refuge so visitors can get up close with all kinds of birds. It’s a fantastic way to take in views of the entire island from a scenic lookout.
Currently, the Kilaeua Lighthouse is temporarily closed for construction and renovations.
20. Get Shave Ice
My absolute favorite shave ice on Kauai is The Wishing Well up in Hanalei. They use organic syrups and top their shave ice with fresh tropical fruit. It’s incredible!
We also love The Fresh Shave, Wailua Shave Ice, and Waikomo Shave Ice. These are all the best Kauai shave ice spots worth trying!
It’s a refreshing sweet treat that kids will definitely enjoy after a beach day.
21. Visit a Botanical Garden
There are several botanical gardens on Kauai that are worth visiting. Two of the most popular are the Allerton and McBryde Gardens in Poipu.
However, there is also the Na Aina Kai Botanical Garden in Kilauea (which has a special children’s garden) and the Limahuli Garden in Ha’ena.
All of these are great options to visit in Kauai with kids, especially if you’re interested in learning about native plants and how they contribute to Kauai’s natural beauty.
22. Ride an ATV
Kauai is known for its red dirt, so if you’re old enough to handle a little adventure, then put on those shoes and go!
This four-wheel drive will take you through the mountains of Kauai while giving amazing views of both island terrain as well as ocean scenery.
Rain or shine is perfect weather when having fun in these kinds of spots because it gets messy – really dirty. This makes sure that there are no complaints from anyone about how they aren’t enjoying themselves or being bored stiff
23. Check out a Kauai Farmers Market
Kauai has some tasty locally grown produce (including sugarloaf pineapple) and baked goods (like banana bread).
There are farmers’ markets all across Kauai, and it can be a fun experience to taste the difference between organic produce in Hawaii versus what you get at your grocery store back home.
Give your kids some cash and let them choose their own Hawaiian fruit or treats to taste. It’s a great chance to interact with locals and pick up some helpful travel tips about other places to explore around the island.
24. See a Hawaiian Village
If your family wants to learn more about Hawaiian culture, stop by the Kamokila Hawaiian Village.
They have everything set up so you can see how the people of Old Hawaii lived. They offer outrigger canoe tours, Fern Grotto tours, and even access to a private swimming hole.
It’s also a peaceful stop near Hanalei Bay, making it easy to pair with other North Side activities on your itinerary.
25. Visit the Kauai Museum
Visiting museums can be hit or miss, depending on the museum.
The Kauai Museum is pretty cool because it has many displays that highlight the history of sugar cane plantations in Hawaii and also hosts many cultural events throughout the year!
Plus, they have one of the nicest gift shops to find products made in Kauai. It’s a relaxing indoor stop that the whole family can enjoy, especially during the summer months when you’re looking for a break from the midday sun.
Top Things to do in Kauai with Kids FAQs
The most popular Kauai tourist attractions include Waimea Canyon, Spouting Horn, Kilohana Plantation, the Coconut Coast, Kilauea Lighthouse, and Hanalei Bay.
When it’s raining in Kauai, you can head to the Kauai Museum for some indoor fun. There’s also shopping at Kukui Grove, Target, or Warehouse 3540. Or you can do a Wailua River boat ride (it’s covered). If you’re looking for rainy-day activities across the Hawaiian Islands, indoor museums and cultural centers are always a safe bet.
The short answer is yes. If you want to maximize your time in Kauai, renting a car is the easiest way to visit all the places on your itinerary. Otherwise, you can use the bus or call an Uber, but these are both limited in Kauai. A rental car also makes it easier for families to bring strollers, beach gear, and car seats, especially when traveling with young children.
Best Things to do in Kauai with Kids Wrap-Up
Now you know what to do in Kauai with kids of all ages. There are so many kid-friendly activities and attractions.
I hope you’ve found this list of the top 25 things to do with kids in Kauai helpful and informative. There is something for everyone on this list, whether your family likes outdoor activities or a more relaxing vacation.
Whether you are looking for a warm winter destination in the U.S. or want a summer adventure, Kauai is a great option! From tide pools filled with marine life to sea turtles resting on the sand, there are endless ways to connect with nature here.
You might even consider island hopping if you’re planning to visit more than one of the Hawaiian Islands—it’s an excellent way to make the most of your trip.
We also have other content related to Hawaii that may be worth checking out if you’re not just looking for ideas on what to do in Kauai with children.
And don’t forget: enjoying live hula shows with live music, exploring sea caves by boat, and splashing in the waves at your favorite beach are just a few more reasons why Kauai is a dream destination for families.
Looking for more Hawaii travel resources? Learn how to plan a trip to Hawaii, 10 Must-Read Kauai Travel Tips, how to book affordable family photos in Hawaii, Kauai family resorts, how to plan a trip to Hawaii with toddlers, and do you need Hawaii travel insurance.
