While we already have a post of ‘How To Spend 6 Days in Kauai‘, we decided to do this post because of our recent trip on the Garden Isle. We spent a total of two nights at Waimea Plantation Cottage and explored a few spots in Kauai. This was our first time staying on the West side of the island which was off the beaten path yet, absolutely magical!
When traveling we typically are on-the-go trying to make tours in a timely manner but in this case, we reveal how we explored enough of Kauai while also being stress-free. This is a realistic itinerary that you’ll actually enjoy without having to rush from place to place.
DAY 1
We arrived in the morning (9 am) and ate at a local favorite “Tip Top Cafe” before heading off to the west side, where we were staying. Before reaching our destination of Waimea Plantation Cottages, we took a detour up Waimea Canyon because it was the clearest day we’ve ever seen on Kauai. Taking advantage of clear weather definitely can make or break an experience.
As mentioned, we took this trip slow and planned our trip for flexibility. Spending a couple of hours taking photos, driving through Waimea Canyon and taking our time was serene! We ended that day watching a sunset at the cottages after visiting Waimea Canyon and Kalalau Lookout.
WAIMEA CANYON STATE PARK
KALALAU LOOKOUT
WATCH THE SUNSET ON THE BEACH
DAY 2
Our first day was tranquil and laid back while our second day started off quick! We woke up at 6 am, caught the sunrise and headed to Kikiaola Small Boat Harbor without any coffee. Reason being, we were about to embark on a bumpy adventure with Na Pali Pirates. Na Pali Pirates took us on a 5 hour trip through seal cliff waterfalls, caves, and took us to a snorkeling spot.
After having a grand time on the speed boat, we drove to Wailua Falls and Opaeka’a Falls to take a few pictures and sightsee around Lihue. By the late afternoon, we headed back to get ready for a Luau to end the end.
NA PALI COAST BOAT TOUR & SNORKELING
WAILUA FALLS
OPAEKA’A FALLS
LAUA TO END THE NIGHT
If you’re able to stay longer in Kauai, we highly suggest doing so. You can most likely do these ‘ Top 10 Things You Must Do in Kauai‘ within 4 days and still be able to enjoy it all. As of May 2019, the Wet and dry caves are currently closed at the moment which is why it’s not included in this list. Although, it is a nice and easily manageable spot for families, along with a nice beach to play and snorkel in nearby.
We aren’t too keen on hiking which is why we didn’t include any. However, we always love hearing about hike-worthy trails – which is one of the things Kauai is known for. Mahalo for reading!
MORE KAUAI RELATED POSTS
10 Best Things To Do in Kauai
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(opens in a new tab)Kauai Travel Guide
48 Hours in Kauai
WHERE TO STAY IN KAUAI
Koloa Landing Resort
Waimea Plantation Cottages
Courtyard Kauai
Airbnb in Kauai
There are Airbnb’s available throughout Kauai. If you’re not familiar with Airbnb, it’s an online marketplace for arranging or offering lodging, primarily homestays, or tourism experiences. Get $40 off your first booking at any Airbnb in Kauai!
For more places to stay in Kauai, Booking.com offers hotels, apartments, and hostels. You get free cancellation on most rooms and the best price guarantee!
Booking.com
2026 Updated Information
Tip Top Cafe: Still going strong in Lihue. Open Tuesday through Saturday (closed Mondays), 7:00 AM to 1:30 PM. Their banana macadamia nut pancakes and oxtail soup remain local favorites. Located at 3173 Akahi St, Lihue.
Waimea Plantation Cottages: Now operating as a Coast Resort, the historic oceanfront cottages are still welcoming guests. They are currently offering a “Hawaii Nei Special” with up to 26% off best available rates for stays through December 2026. Call 800-716-6199 or visit waimeaplantationcottages.com for reservations.
Waimea Canyon: The “Grand Canyon of the Pacific” remains free to enter, though there is a parking fee of $5 per vehicle for non-residents. The lookout points are open daily and the canyon is best viewed in the morning before clouds roll in, which this post nails perfectly with the early morning arrival strategy.
2026 Updated Information
Tip Top Cafe: Still going strong in Lihue. Open Tuesday through Saturday (closed Mondays), 7:00 AM to 1:30 PM. Their banana macadamia nut pancakes and oxtail soup remain local favorites. Located at 3173 Akahi St, Lihue.
Waimea Plantation Cottages: Now operating as a Coast Resort, the historic oceanfront cottages are still welcoming guests. They are currently offering a “Hawaii Nei Special” with up to 26% off best available rates for stays through December 2026. Call 800-716-6199 or visit waimeaplantationcottages.com for reservations.
Waimea Canyon: The “Grand Canyon of the Pacific” remains free to enter, though there is a parking fee of $5 per vehicle for non-residents. The lookout points are open daily and the canyon is best viewed in the morning before clouds roll in, which this post nails perfectly with the early morning arrival strategy.
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