Taking a trip to Kauai is always a treat but adding some under-the-radar attractions to your itinerary can make it that much more intriguing! The following are top things to do in Kauai hidden away that you’re going to want to be sure to check out while you’re here. Pack your camera and sense of adventure when you take time to make the most of off-the-beaten-path destinations that might just become your favorite of all time.
Shipwreck Beach at Poipu State Park
In general, Kauai is a destination filled with beaches that tend to be far less crowded than high-volume destinations like Oahu or Maui. Many travelers find this to be a wonderful gift in and of itself, but if you’re looking for even more privacy, tranquility, and off-the-beaten-path seclusion, you’ll want to make your way to Shipwreck Beach at Poipu State Park. This enticing stretch of shoreline offers visitors access to sugar-white sands paired with an impressive backdrop of rugged cliffs. While the visitor numbers fluctuate throughout the day, the trend here is a quiet and welcoming one. Bring a beach chair and settle in to work on your tan or take some time to enjoy snorkeling in the surf. Either way, it’s likely you’ll find yourself lingering longer than you originally planned.
Kilauea Lighthouse and Wildlife Refuge
Within the parameters of the Kilauea Point National Wildlife Refuge, visitors looking for an under-the-radar landmark that’s well worth experiencing can find the Kilauea Lighthouse waiting to be enjoyed. The lighthouse is open to guests almost every day of the week and if you have the energy to make your way to the top observation deck, you’ll be treated to amazing coastline views that showcase the very best Kauai has to offer in abundance. Don’t forget to swing by the visitor center when you’re enjoying one of the best activities in Kauai where naturalists are on hand to answer questions about the many species that thrive within this protected space. Coming this way provides an opportunity to spot everything from passing whales in the water to sights of the red-footed booby depending on what time of year you’re traveling to Kauai.
Maniniholo Dry Cave
Sitting just across the way from Haena Beach on the north side of Kauai, the Maniniholo Dry Cave is a gem of an under-the-radar attraction that visitors are bound to be enthralled by. Boasting dimensions of 300 yard deep, the Maniniholo Dry Cave is designed by nature to include towering ceilings and nearly mystical features that make for fun exploration. Many people that come this way do so with little ones in tow as the cave captivates attention spans and ages of all types. There’s a nearby beach to enjoy as well when you’re ready to move your adventure from underground to in the waves!
Red Dirt Falls in Waimea Canyon
Waimea Canyon is a captivating and well-known Kauai-based landmark, but within the canyon, Red Dirt Falls is one of the lesser-known top things to do in Kauai and just as worth checking out. Make your way to Waimea Canyon State Park to get the adventure started. Don’t be surprised to hear this area referred to as The Grand Canyon of the Pacific. It’s earned this title with good reason. The first things visitors notice in this landscape is the vast amount of bright red rocks and dirt that cover the terrain. It makes for an almost other-worldly sight and one that you’ll definitely want to have your camera on hand for. Visitors can drive quite a way before hitting the trailhead and started to explore on foot. If you drive to the top and come back by vehicle, Red Dirt Falls can be viewed by taking a left at the Y in the road. Many visitors say the scene that awaits looks fairly Martian complete with a cascading waterfall. It’s a view everyone is bound to love!
Makauwahi Cave Trail
Taking to the many trails of Kauai on foot is a popular pastime on this island, and one that can be even more enjoyable when you find under-the-radar routes to explore! The Makauwahi Cave Trail would fall into this category well. This is a trail that leads hikers through a portion of a park that covers 17 acres in total. It’s integrated into the Grove Farm Company and even at the trailhead, visitors are treated to stunning cliff vantage points overlooking amazing waters below. This trail is generally open daily between 10:00 am and 2:00 pm. Plan on setting aside at least 25 minutes of trekking time to enjoy it.
Book Your Stay Today
There’s never been a better time to book your trip to Kauai and knowing you have amazing and luxurious winter rentals in place makes it even better. Reach out to Arrived today to learn more about our many rental options and to begin planning your trip!
