Keeping Everyone Happy On Kauai

Kauai, Hawaii – Image courtesy Hawaii Tourism Authority/Tor Johnson

It’s always an enriching experience, traveling with the family, and when you’ve selected a destination as overflowing with family-friendly activities as Kauai, you avoid many of the headaches that stem from having to plan outings for a vast age difference. As the leader of the pack, you’ve taken on the responsibility of planning an itinerary that everyone can enjoy together; from the culturally-relevant to the once-in-a-lifetime sights and sounds, you’ve got a myriad of options on the island that won’t be accompanied by any resistance! Time is at a premium on vacation, so to save you some, we’ve assembled a greatest hits list of activities for this truly spectacular place, so that when you decide to leave your Kauai Beach Resort, you’ll know that you’re primed for a memory-making excursion that will produce stories you’ll tell for years to come.

Na Pali Coast, Kauai – Image courtesy Hawaii Tourism Authority/Robert Coello

Whale Watching They’re the gentle giants of the deep, and if you find yourself ducking out to Kauai for a winter vacation, you’ll be in the perfect position to catch a glimpse of some beautiful whales. Your kids will love being out on the water, and when you witness a whale breach in the wild, or see a stream of mist shoot skyward from the surface of the Pacific, you’ll all be truly awestruck. There are many companies that offer whale watching tours during this time, so pick one that suits your fancy, and prepare yourself for your first encounter with one of nature’s most majestic creatures.

Waimea Canyon, Kauai – Image courtesy Hawaii Tourism Authority/Tor Johnson

Visit Waimea Valley Depending on the age of your children, yanking them away from the beach may be a difficult task (you may also find yourself struggling with the notion when you’ve been enjoying the bliss of these peerless coasts), but if you’re hoping to experience a bit of inland Kauai, there is no place more fit for an afternoon than the Waimea Canyon. Used in television shows and films, this area is filled with waterfalls, luscious green jungles, a vast array of colored flowers, and stunning wildlife. As you walk around this area, your kids will develop a further appreciation of natural beauty, while you and your spouse bask in the pleasure of watching them open their eyes to the wonders of the world.

Kalapaki Bay, Kauai – Image courtesy Hawaii Tourism Authority/Robert Coello

Family Surfing Lessons If your kids are old enough, and you’re feeling adventurous enough, heading out to the water and surfing on Kauai can be a great team-building exercise! Kauai has many gentle breaks that are perfect for beginners, and with all of you guys supporting one another, you may find it easier than you initially thought! Once you stand up on your board and coast back to the shore, you’ll have a sense of accomplishment that you’ll carry with you forever! Poipu Beach Park on the island’s South Shore has several spots that are ideal for getting your feet wet. Make sure you read the surf report prior to paddling out so that you and yours have a safe, fun time riding the swells.

Makua Beach, Kauai – Image courtesy Hawaii Tourism Authority/Tor Johnson

See Some Authentic Hula Dancing Many are familiar with what the hula is, but have never seen it performed properly! If you’re looking for something to do at night and are hoping to gain a better understanding of Hawaiian culture, heading down to the Kilohana Plantation and taking part in the Luau Kalamaku is a terrific idea. With the torches lit, the Pua’a (roasted pig cooked in an underground over) on a spit, and the sound of the ukelele filling the air, you’ll understand where the laid-back Aloha spirit derives from. If you’re given the opportunity, jump up and share your own interpretation of this classic dance move amongst new friends.

With so many options, you’ll find your itinerary packed to the brim. You’ll rest easy, however, knowing that Kauai’s famously picturesque beaches are always there for you and your family to enjoy!

For more information, check out our Kuaui Trip Reports, from families who’ve visited Kauai with kids…

*Many thanks to Aqua Resorts for this great information about family travel to Kauai.