Why Kauai?
If you’re looking for the feel of old Hawaii without the mega resorts, Kauai should be your pick. Drop down any path on the side of the “highway” and it’ll likely lead to you to an empty beach, each with its own character and few if any people.
In fact Kauai has the most beaches of any of the Hawaiian islands. While the beach may not be swimmable due to the crazy waves (check out the world renowned surfers at Hanalei Bay) and potential deadly currents, you may end up having it nearly all to yourself. Well maybe!
If you like hiking, try the Napali coast
- hiking the Napali coast
- the views
Or the Waimea Canyon
Food – don’t expect, nor will you want to, sit down to fancy eats. Kauai is the place to drop in on the local bakery that serves up locally roasted coffee and delicious treats. When done well, you can’t beat the ubiquitous coconut shrimp. Or knock on the back door of a fish shop for sushi. Roadside fruit stands and farmer’s markets are in abundance. And of course there’s the epitome of Hawaiian cooking The Plate Lunch – served up in styrofoam containers and heavy on the starch. The mains run from fish to chicken or pork served in a Japanese, Chinese, Philipino or Hawaiian style. For dessert a refreshing shave ice.
- coconut shrimp
- bakery with humour
- legendary for ramen
- plate lunch
- plate lunch
- shave ice
- street food – grilled squid
- local kombucha
- roadside fruit stands
So go ahead rent a house
Basic Information: beaches and hikes
Farmers markets easy chart of the markets on the island or more markets on the island
Favourite Food Places
Koloa Fish Market pick up lunch for the beach (south shore)
Anuenue Cafe great for breakfast or lunch
Hanapepe Friday Night Festival Main street comes alive with food vendors and art for sale
Kilauea Bakery and Pau Hana Pizza great coffee, baked goods and pizza
The Bistro simple food when you feel like sitting down for a bite to eat
Kilauea Fish Market the price is right & the fish tacos are great
Hamura Saimin close to airport, old style diner to get you in the aloha spirit
The Fish Market Maui (yes it is in kauai) try the sushi or poke