Kauai Waimea Canyon and Koke'e Tour
Active
10h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Mark Twain nicknamed Waimea Canyon the "Grand Canyon of the Pacific". Experience nature's grandeur first hand on this guided tour with live narration. Gaze at the red cliffs of Waimea Canyon and enjoy a brief walk along a meandering path in verdant Koke'e State Park. Visit a coffee plantation and sample pure Kauai coffee. Watch the raw power of nature at Spouting Horn.
Available options
Kauai Waimea Canyon and Koke'e Tour
Pickup included
What's included
Pick-up and drop-off at specific Kauai Hotels
Tour narration by a professional driver/guide
Air-conditioned vehicle
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Crashing waves propel majestic jets of salt water through lava rock. One of the most photographed sites on Kauai.
2
Panoramic views of a valley covered in trees and wild green sugarcane. Hanapepe was one of the locations visited by famous explored Charles Wilkes in 1840.
3
Suspension bridge, built in the early 1900s for residents to cross the river.
4
Stop 4
Pass by
Rich in paniolo (Hawaiian cowboy) history, Waimea is quiet town with quaint shops and eateries.
5
Stop 5
Scenic views of the deep valley gorges with it's striking red soil covered in greenery...nicknamed the "The Grand Canyon of the Pacific". Waimea Canyon Lookout will be closed from 4/14/25 through approximately 12/8/25 for slope and foundation repairs. Pu‘uhinahina Lookout, which is already included on the itinerary, will now be the main canyon viewpoint. We’ll also adjust timing slightly to allow for more time at other highlights along the way.
6
Stop 6
Savor a delectable lunch on your own at Koke’e Lodge (with a 10% discount for Polynesian Adventure guests). A $3 donation to the Koke’e Natural History Museum supporting preservation efforts is included in your honor.
Venture down a nature trail in Koke’e State Park for an easy stroll surrounded by native Hawaiian flora and fauna. The first portion of the hike is a gradual uphill stroll for about 30 yards, then the land levels; hugging the contours of the hill.
7
Waimea Canyon lookout point.
8
Relax and sink your toes in the warm sand at this popular beach.
9
Stop 9
Historical trading location, established by Russians during brief stint in Hawaii in 1815.
10
Stop 10
The largest coffee farm in the United States, visit the Kauai Coffee Estate and sample a rich cup of famous Kauai coffee.
What's not included
Gratuities
Port pick-up and drop-off
Lunch
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.6
293 reviews
5★
223
4★
36
3★
23
2★
7
1★
4
Tripadvisor
4.7
223 reviews
5★
189
4★
14
3★
8
2★
7
1★
5
Important information
Service animals allowed
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Please contact the tour provider at minimum of 7 days prior to the tour date for ADA and all special requests.
Important notes
Your tour provider is Polynesian Adventure Tours 1-800-622-3011 or sales@polyad.com. At least (2) days prior to your tour date, you must call or email to schedule your pickup and receive your exact pickup time and meeting spot.
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
