Things To Do
Chicken In a Barrel BBQ & Da Pizza Place
The most convenient place to eat during your stay is right on property at Waimea Plantation Cottages. They serve island-style barbecue, pizza, and casual favorites from 8:30 am to 8:00 pm Monday-Thursday, and 8:30 am to 9:00 pm Friday-Sunday. It’s an easy option for breakfast, lunch, dinner, or a quick bite between activities.
Japanese Grandma's Cafe
15 Minute Drive One of our favorite places to eat on the south shore, Japanese Grandma’s Café serves fresh sushi, ramen, and seasonal Japanese-inspired dishes in a cozy garden setting. It’s a local favorite and tends to fill up quickly, so be sure to make a reservation in advance.
Na Pali Coast Boat Tour
15 Minute Drive One of the best ways to experience Kauai is from the water. Several companies offer boat tours along the stunning Na Pali Coast, where you’ll see dramatic cliffs, waterfalls, sea caves, and maybe even dolphins or sea turtles. Most tours depart from Port Allen Harbor on the south shore, about 15 minutes from Waimea Plantation Cottages. Whether you choose snorkeling or a sunset cruise, it’s an unforgettable adventure.
Kauai Coffee Company
17 Minute Drive Kauai Coffee Company is the largest coffee farm in the United States. Visitors can stroll through the coffee fields on a self-guided tour, learn how beans are grown and roasted, and enjoy free tastings of their many varieties. It’s a fun stop for coffee lovers and a great way to experience a unique part of the island’s culture.
Waimea Canyon State Park
20 Minute Drive Known as the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific,” Waimea Canyon stretches 14 miles long and plunges up to 3,600 feet deep. Its colorful red and green cliffs, waterfalls, and dramatic lookouts make it one of Kauai’s must-see sights, whether you take a short drive to the overlooks or explore one of the hiking trails.
Poipu Beach
35 Minute Drive Located on Kauai’s sunny south shore, Poipu Beach is one of the island’s most popular spots for swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing in the sun. Its calm, protected waters make it family-friendly, and it’s not uncommon to spot Hawaiian monk seals or sea turtles resting on the sand. The area also offers plenty of great shopping and dining options, making it easy to turn a beach day into a full afternoon or evening out.
Spouting Horn
40 Minute Drive Spouting Horn is a dramatic ocean blowhole where waves force water up through a natural lava tube, shooting up to 50 feet in the air with a deep hissing roar. Hawaiian legend says the sound is the cry of a giant lizard trapped inside. Visit in the late afternoon for the best chance of catching a rainbow in the mist.
Ziplining (Outfitters Kauai)
40 Minute Drive Soar through Kauai’s lush jungles on one of the island’s most popular zipline adventures. This experience includes multiple courses, featuring Hawaii’s longest zipline, a tandem line with sweeping views of Kipu Ranch, and even a water landing that ends with a refreshing dip in a bamboo pool. It’s a thrilling way to see the island from above and a favorite for both visitors and local families.
Off-Road 4x4 ATV Tours (Kipu Ranch Adventures)
40 Minute Drive Explore thousands of acres of private ranch land on a guided ATV or UTV tour through lush valleys, tropical forests, and historic sites. You’ll drive through movie-famous landscapes, splash through streams, and take in sweeping views of Kauai’s dramatic scenery. It’s a fun and adventurous way to experience a different side of the island.
Mountain Tubing
45 Minute Drive Float through a network of historic sugar plantation canals, tunnels, and flumes on this one-of-a-kind Kauai adventure. Set against the backdrop of Mt. Waialeale, the tour takes you deep into the island’s lush interior with fun guides leading the way. The experience includes a refreshing swim and lunch, making it one of the most popular activities on Kauai.
Wailua River Kayak
55 Minute Drive Paddle along Kauai’s only navigable river, winding through lush jungle scenery and towering cliffs. Many tours include a short hike to Secret Falls, where you can cool off with a swim beneath a 120 foot waterfall for an unforgettable island adventure.
Kokeʻe State Park
1 Hour Drive Located above Waimea Canyon, Koke‘e State Park is home to breathtaking mountain vistas, native forests, and more than 40 miles of hiking trails. Visitors can explore short scenic walks or challenging treks, spot native birds, and enjoy sweeping views of the Na Pali Coast from lookout points like Kalalau and Pu‘u o Kila.
Hanalei Bay
1 Hour 45 Minute Drive On Kauai’s North Shore, Hanalei Bay is a stunning two-mile stretch of golden sand backed by lush mountains and waterfalls. It’s perfect for swimming, paddleboarding, or just relaxing on the beach, and the nearby town of Hanalei offers great shops, cafés, and a laid-back vibe.