Things To Do in Kauai for Couples
Looking for the perfect romantic escape? Look no further than Kauai. With its dramatic cliffs, lush valleys, cascading waterfalls, and pristine beaches, Kauai sets the stage for unforgettable moments for couples. Whether you’re seeking thrilling adventures or serene moments of connection, this island paradise offers a diverse array of experiences tailored for two. Get ready to discover the most captivating things to do in Kauai for couples, promising a blend of natural beauty, exhilarating activities, and intimate charm.
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A Quick Introduction to Kauai, Hawaii
kauai, hawaii is a couple’s paradise
Known as the “Garden Isle,” Kauai is the oldest and fourth largest of the main Hawaiian Islands, boasting a breathtaking tapestry of emerald valleys, dramatic cliffs, and cascading waterfalls carved over millennia. Fun fact: it’s so lush that it’s often called the wettest spot on Earth, with Mount Wai’ale’ale receiving an average of 450 inches of rain annually! This abundance of water has also created the only consistently navigable rivers in Hawaii, perfect for exploring. Interestingly, due to its stunning and diverse landscapes, Kauai has served as the backdrop for over 60 Hollywood movies, including Jurassic Park and Pirates of the Caribbean.
view of grand hyatt kauai room balcony
flights to kauai, hawaii
Hop on a plane and get ready for paradise! Flying to Kauai typically means landing at Lihue Airport (LIH), the main gateway to the Garden Isle. You’ll find a good mix of major airlines like Hawaiian, American, Delta, United, Southwest, and Alaska all offering flights, often with connections through hubs like Los Angeles or Phoenix. For those lucky enough to snag a direct flight, especially from the West Coast, you could be touching down in Kauai in around 5-6 hours from cities like Phoenix. Keep an eye out for deals, and remember that booking in advance or considering travel during the shoulder seasons (April-June, September-November) might help you find more budget-friendly options for your romantic escape.
best months to visit kauai
While Kauai is a year-round tropical paradise, if you’re aiming for the sweet spot for your romantic getaway, consider visiting during the shoulder seasons: April-June or September-early October. These months typically offer the best balance of pleasant weather with less rainfall and fewer crowds compared to the peak summer and winter holiday periods. You’ll generally find warm, sunny days perfect for exploring, and potentially better deals on flights and accommodations. However, keep in mind that Kauai is lush for a reason, and a little rain can happen any time, often adding to the island’s magical ambiance with rainbows and vibrant greenery!
We personally went in May and loved it.
Things To Do in Kauai for Couples
OK cute couples, let’s go over some of the best things to do in Kauai. I’m going to separate this into a few categories, from scenic activities to romantic, relaxing activities to bucket-list adventures. All of these can create amazing memories for you and your boo.
relaxing/romantic activities
tropical massages at the anara spa
Highly recommend booking a couples massage at the Anara Spa, at the Grand Hyatt Kauai. This resort is located ocean side, on the south side of the island. Whether you choose to stay here or not (you should!!!), highly recommend this activity. It was literally the best massage I’ve ever had. It was open to beautiful private landscaping where I heard wind and the birds and the relaxing spa music, and my masseuse was so talented. You get to enjoy a eucalyptus scented steam room, dry sauna, hot tubs, pools, and a magical volcanic shower in the dressing room. This is definitely one of the best things to do in Kauai for couples.
eat at tidepools (& maybe see famous people!!)
Tidepools isn’t just a restaurant; it’s an experience tailor-made for romance. Imagine dining in a thatched-roof bungalow that appears to float above a tranquil koi-filled lagoon, with the gentle sounds of a nearby waterfall creating a soothing ambiance. The setting alone feels like stepping into a secluded Hawaiian village, offering an intimate and enchanting atmosphere perfect for a couples’ night out. Savor contemporary Hawaiian cuisine featuring fresh, island-inspired dishes, from delectable seafood to succulent steaks, all while enjoying exceptional service in this truly unique and picturesque location. Tidepools offers a sensory experience that goes beyond just a meal, making it a memorable and romantic activity for any couple visiting Kauai. It’s actually one of the most highly-rated restaurants in Hawaii, and many famous people have dined here (I actually sat near reality TV stars during my stay haha).
relax at the beautiful tunnels beach
Ugh, this beach was stunning. This is Tunnels Beach, located on the North of Kauai. It takes a bit to get too, but it’s worth it. There are some “secret” parking spots online, but don’t listen to those please, those are near people’s houses. Park at the Ha’ena Beach Park and walk along the beach to get to this beautiful area. It’s perfect for relaxing together and SNORKELING. As always with snorkeling, don’t step on reefs. We brought our own gear with us and it was so worth it. This beach park does have bathrooms and outdoor showers!
book a stay at a romantic resort
I know you’ve heard me talk about The Grand Hyatt Kauai enough by now, but no you haven’t. This is where you need to stay if you want a romantic couple’s getaway in Kauai. Don’t try to save money in Kauai with your stay- just trust me on this one. From the insanely large property to the landscaping to the restaurants to the private beach to the running and hiking trails to the pools, this place has it all. You NEED to stay here. One of the best things to do in Kauai for couples is JUST CHILL AT YOUR RESORT.
bucket list adventures in kauai
boat tour of the na pali coast
Cruising along the breathtaking Na Pali Coast on a raft tour is an absolute must on your list of things to do in Kauai for couples. Feel the refreshing spray of the Pacific as you zip past towering emerald cliffs, hidden sea caves, and cascading waterfalls plunging into the turquoise waters below. The nimble raft allows you to get up close and personal with this dramatic coastline, offering unparalleled views and the chance to spot playful dolphins and even majestic sea turtles. It’s an exhilarating and unforgettable way to experience the raw beauty of Kauai.
Soar above the dramatic, untouched beauty of the Na Pali Coast on a helicopter tour for an unparalleled perspective. From high above, the jagged emerald cliffs, cascading waterfalls plunging into the turquoise Pacific, and hidden valleys unfold in a breathtaking panorama that simply can’t be experienced any other way. It’s a thrilling and awe-inspiring adventure, offering incredible photo opportunities and a sense of the sheer scale and grandeur of this iconic coastline. Prepare to be mesmerized by this unforgettable bird’s-eye view of Kauai’s natural wonder. Such an amazing experience for a couple.
na pali coast hike: the kalalau trail
Embarking on the legendary Kalalau Trail is an adventure of a lifetime, a challenging yet profoundly rewarding trek along the breathtaking Na Pali Coast. This demanding 11-mile (one-way) trail winds its way through lush valleys, over steep cliffs, and past pristine beaches, offering unparalleled views of the dramatic coastline, cascading waterfalls, and the vast Pacific Ocean. For those who venture even a portion of it, the Kalalau Trail provides an immersive experience in Kauai’s raw beauty, a test of endurance, and an unforgettable connection with nature’s grandeur. (Note: Permits and careful planning are essential for this hike.)
other scenic adventures on kauai to do as a couple
visit waimea canyon and kokee state parks
For couples who love to explore nature together, hiking Waimea Canyon and Kōkeʻe State Parks offers an unforgettable adventure. Prepare to be awestruck by the sheer scale and vibrant hues of the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific” as you traverse trails along its rim, offering breathtaking panoramic vistas. Then, venture into the lush, misty forests of Kōkeʻe, where winding paths lead to dramatic overlooks of the Na Pali Coast and through fragrant native flora. Each park presents a unique landscape and a range of trails, from leisurely strolls to more challenging climbs, promising shared moments of discovery and stunning natural beauty.
visit kauai coffee company
Visiting the Kauai Coffee Company is a delightful experience for any couple, especially those who appreciate a good brew and stunning scenery. Imagine strolling hand-in-hand through the sprawling coffee orchards, the rich aroma of roasting beans filling the air. You can take a self-guided tour to learn about the coffee-making process, from bean to cup, and then indulge in a tasting of their diverse roasts and flavored coffees on the open-air lanai, all while enjoying panoramic views of the plantation. It’s a relaxed and sensory experience, perfect for a leisurely morning or afternoon together, and a chance to bring home a taste of Kauai.
see wailua falls
Witnessing the majestic Wailua Falls is a truly captivating experience, and one of my favorite things to do in Kauai as a couple. These iconic twin waterfalls dramatically cascade 80 feet into a lush pool below, creating a scene of serene beauty and raw power. The sight and sound of the water thundering down is simply breathtaking. It’s a quintessential Kauai moment, offering a perfect photo opportunity and a chance to connect with the island’s natural splendor.
Final Thoughts about Things To Do in Kauai for Couples
Kauai, the “Garden Isle,” offers a stunning backdrop for a romantic getaway. From breathtaking natural wonders to intimate experiences, this island paradise has something for every couple. Imagine soaring above the dramatic Na Pali Coast on a helicopter tour, getting up close and personal with its majestic cliffs and waterfalls on a raft trip, or hiking through the lush landscapes of Waimea Canyon and Kōkeʻe State Parks, hand-in-hand.
Coffee lovers can savor the aromatic experience of visiting the Kauai Coffee Company, strolling through the orchards and enjoying panoramic views. For a dose of iconic beauty, witnessing the cascading Wailua Falls is a must. And for the adventurous duo, even a portion of the legendary Kalalau Trail promises unforgettable shared moments amidst stunning scenery. Whether you’re seeking thrilling explorations or tranquil moments together, Kauai sets the stage for a truly memorable romantic escape.