Private Kauai Highlights- Featuring Waimea Canyon
Active
7h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Our tours are lead by a small local family owned business with over 20 years of experience in the field. This is not your ordinary tour. We crafted this experience as if we were going on it. We believe in quality over quantity, and we want to deliver more than what you dreamed of. Make sure to let us know if you want to customize your experience. Our tours support small Kauai owned businesses.
Our excursion visits several lookouts at the famous mini Grand Canyon of the Pacific, the powerful Spouting horn, the breathtaking Kalalau Valley lookout (weather permitting), and charming Hanapepe town. Enjoy freshly made treats at a local bakery (optional), and locally sourced lunch up in the mountain.
Take the day off from driving and see Kauai through local eyes.
We offer free hotel (south and east only), airport, and harbor pick up and drop off. Guests coming from the north meet us in Kapaa in a central location TBA. Contact us direct if your party is larger than 5.
Available options
Private Kauai Highlights
Pickup included
What's included
Private transportation
Map of Kauai
Bottled water
Entrance to the Waimea Canyon & Kokee State Park
Air-conditioned vehicle
Pick up and drop off at the harbor for cruise ship passengers
Surprise!
Detailed itinerary
1
This beautiful verdant valley is the perfect preamble to the Waimea Canyon. It is partially owned by the Robinson family and the home of Jurassic falls. We will stop here for about 5-10 minutes to take pictures.
2
Time to step back in time and visit Historic Hanapepe town, revitalized after World War II and turned into an artsy haven. Here you will be able to enjoy some fresh made local pastries and beverages, walk the swinging bridge that crosses the Hanapepe River, built in 1912, visit some art galleries, and shop for locally made souvenirs and crafts. If you love Lilo and Stich, this is the town that inspired that film. Hanapepe is an authentic town full of historic charm, unlike any other on Kauai.
3
Stop 3
Waimea Canyon State Park is one of Kauai's natural wonders, known as the mini Grand Canyon of the Pacific. Marvel at this geological gem from various lookouts as we ascend the mountain to about 3800' in elevation. We will get out of the van in various locations for amazing picture ops. The main Canyon lookout is closed for restoration until December 2025. Please know the Canyon is about 15 miles long and 2 miles wide, therefore you can still enjoy phenomenal views from many spots as you go up the Canyon road.
Majestic beauty at its finest!
4
Stop 4
We will continue to ascend the mountain past the Waimea Canyon State Park to explore the high forest of Kokee. Weather permitting (Not guarantee) you will marvel at the breathtaking Kalalau Valley lookout, the largest valley of the famous Nepali coast. We will stop for lunch at the Kokee Lodge, originally built in the 1930s as a hunting lodge. Their food is made with locally grown ingredients and it tastes like home.
5
Stop 5
Last but not least in our agenda, we will visit the Spouting horn in Poipu. This stunning natural beauty is the product of a now extinct volcano; a water blow hole that can reach heights up to 20 feet. Experience the power of nature as the water spouts like a geyser. On our way out of Poipu, we will drive through the famous Tree tunnel.
What's not included
Gratuities
Lunch
Available languages
Audio guide
EN
ES
Guide guide
EN
ES
Reviews breakdown
Viator
5.0
13 reviews
5★
13
4★
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Tripadvisor
5.0
32 reviews
5★
32
4★
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Important information
Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Important notes
We will be sending you a text message the day before your tour to check in with you, and provide details about your activity such as our pick up location and time, what to bring and any changes if applicable. Make sure to provide us with a good cell phone number for US travelers or a WhatsApp number to contact you.
If you have any questions and/or need immediate assistance send us a text message at +1 (808) 652-2247
About Kauai
Kauai, known as the Garden Isle, is the oldest and fourth largest of the main Hawaiian Islands. It is renowned for its lush landscapes, dramatic cliffs, and pristine beaches, offering a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation. The island is less developed than its neighbors, providing a more secluded and tranquil experience.
Top Attractions
Waimea Canyon
Known as the 'Grand Canyon of the Pacific,' Waimea Canyon offers breathtaking views and hiking trails through its vibrantly colored cliffs and lush valleys.
Nature
Half day to full day
Free to enter, parking fees may apply
Na Pali Coast
The Na Pali Coast is famous for its dramatic cliffs, lush valleys, and secluded beaches. It can be explored by hiking, boat tours, or helicopter tours.
Nature
Full day
Free for hiking, boat tours and helicopter tours range from $150 to $300 per person
Wailua River State Park
This state park offers access to the Wailua River, with activities like kayaking, paddleboarding, and visiting the Fern Grotto and Opaekaa Falls.
Nature
Half day
Free to enter, activities have separate fees
Must-Try Local Dishes
Poke
A Hawaiian dish made with raw fish, usually tuna, marinated in soy sauce, sesame oil, and green onions. Served over rice or as a salad.
Lunch/Dinner
Contains fish, gluten-free if soy sauce is replaced
Loco Moco
A Hawaiian comfort food made with white rice, topped with a hamburger patty, a fried egg, and brown gravy.
Lunch/Dinner
Contains beef, can be made vegetarian
Popular Activities
Hiking
Kayaking
Ziplining
Beachcombing
Spa treatments
Sunset watching
Hula performances
Cultural tours
Best Time to Visit
April to June, September to November
These months offer pleasant weather with fewer tourists, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing. The weather is warm but not too hot, and the island is lush and green.
22-29°C
72-84°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: English
- Widely spoken: Hawaiian, Japanese, Tagalog
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
US Dollar (USD)
Time Zone
Hawaii-Aleutian Time Zone (HST, GMT-10:00)
Electricity
120VV, 60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Kauai is generally safe, but travelers should be cautious of natural hazards and take precautions to ensure a safe visit.
Important Precautions:
- • Be cautious of strong ocean currents and rip tides
- • Carry enough water and sunscreen when hiking
- • Secure valuables in rental cars
Getting there
By air
- Lihue Airport • 3 km (2 miles) from Lihue
By bus
Lihue, Kapaa, Princeville
Getting around
Public transport
The Kauai Bus system connects major towns and attractions but has infrequent schedules. Plan your trips accordingly.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Lihue
Kapaa
Princeville
Day trips
Niihau
18 miles (29 km) from Kauai • Full day
Known as the 'Forbidden Island,' Niihau is a privately owned island with a rich Hawaiian cultural heritage. Visitors can take guided tours to experience the island's traditional way of life.
Hanapepe
12 miles (19 km) from Lihue • Half day
A charming town with a rich history and a vibrant arts scene. Visitors can explore art galleries, historic sites, and enjoy local dining.
Festivals
Kauai Moolelo Festival • June
Kauai Coffee Festival • May
Pro tips
- Rent a car to explore the island at your own pace
- Visit the Waimea Canyon and Na Pali Coast for stunning landscapes and hiking trails
- Try local dishes like poke and loco moco for an authentic Hawaiian culinary experience
- Respect the island's natural beauty and cultural heritage by following the 'Leave No Trace' principle
- Book tours and accommodations in advance, especially during peak seasons
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
