Things to Do in Kauai Hawaii: A Peaceful North Shore Adventure for Families
Craving a quieter corner of Maui that’s just as magical, without the crowds? Welcome to Kauai, a breezy little beach village nestled on the North Shore. With its laid-back vibe, coastal beauty, and close proximity to big adventures, Kauai is one of those places that makes you want to ditch the itinerary and just be.
From epic hikes to art galleries and beach treks with the kids, here are the best things to do in Kauai Hawaii when you want fresh air, movement, and those unforgettable island moments.
Surf North Shore Waves in Kauai for Epic Family Fun
Surfing is practically a rite of passage when you’re on Maui, especially in Kauai, where trade winds and warm waters create ideal conditions. The North Shore is world-famous for its surf breaks, and spots like Ho’okipa Beach Park and the legendary Jaws Beach are just a walk or short drive away.
Even if you’re not riding the waves, it’s worth bringing the family down to watch the surfers and kiteboarders in action. We packed snacks, laid out a towel, and let the kids watch in awe (while mom and dad soaked in the breeze).
Best Hiking Trails Near Kauai with Volcano Views
If you’ve got little ones who love to explore or older kids who need to burn energy, Kauai’s surrounding terrain is a dream. We loved starting the day with a beach jog (even walking in the sand is a workout), and if you’re up for a real adventure, Haleakalā National Park is just a short drive away.
Family-Friendly Fitness Highlights:
- Beach treks with amazing sunrise views
- Hiking Haleakalā’s diverse terrain, from rainforest to volcanic craters
- Day hikes to Ka Luu o Ka Oo or waterfall pools
- Spotting native wildlife and rare plants
- Cooling off in freshwater streams and falls
Whether you hike for an hour or stay all day, this is one of the most awe-inspiring things to do in Kauai Hawaii for nature-loving families.
Snorkeling & Scuba – Dive Into Maui’s Underwater World
You don’t have to go far to experience Maui’s marine magic. Near Kauai, several local companies offer snorkeling and scuba diving tours, complete with equipment and family-friendly instruction. You’ll likely see sea turtles, monk seals, coral reefs, and maybe even a dolphin or two.
For experienced divers, the Lanai Cathedrals are a bucket-list spot just a short boat ride away. While we didn’t dive this one (hello, toddler life), we heard it’s as stunning as it sounds, imagine underwater lava tubes glowing like stained glass.
Zip-Lining – Adrenaline with a View (and a Workout!)
Let’s be honest, if you’ve got tweens or teens, zip-lining is probably already on their Maui wish list. The Haleakalā Skyline Tour is just 15 minutes from Kauai and offers five zip-line crossings with increasing difficulty. Bonus: you’ll get a little hike in, too!
It’s a great mix of fitness, fresh air, and family bonding, and yes, I may have screamed on the first one, but I’d do it again in a heartbeat.
Walk or Bike to Paia for Local Eats and Boutique Finds
Need a slow, simple morning? One of our favorite things to do in Kauai Hawaii with kids was walking or biking the easy 2-mile roundtrip to Paia Town—just enough movement to feel refreshed and explore without rushing. From handmade shops to fresh fruit cafés, this mellow outing gave us that perfect island-style reset.
Why Families Love Biking or Walking to Paia:
- The perfect balance of movement and island-style relaxation
- A fun and manageable trek for little legs or strollers
- Plenty of kid-friendly cafés and juice spots
- Unique locally-owned boutiques and surf shops
- A chance to slow down and explore at your own pace
Discover Kauai’s Art, Culture and Cowboy Heritage
Looking for a break from the beach? You’ll find cultural gems nearby that add depth to your trip. Explore art galleries in Paia, or head to Makawao, Maui’s paniolo (cowboy) town. Our littles loved watching the horses at Piʻiholo Ranch, and there are trail rides for older kids and teens.
Cap off your day with a visit to the Maui Arts and Cultural Center in Kahului, if you time it right, you can catch hula shows, ukulele concerts, or family-friendly performances that bring Hawaiian culture to life.
From surfing world-class waves to strolling into town for poke and art, the things to do in Kauai Hawaii are all about balance: adventure and stillness, nature and culture, movement and meaning. It’s not just what you do here, it’s how it feels while you do it. And trust me, that feeling? It stays with you long after you leave.
