Kauai, Hawaii

Best time to travel: If you're looking for the best combination of good weather, fewer crowds, and better prices, late April to early June or September to early December are the optimal times to visit the South Shore of Kauai. This gives you ideal conditions for enjoying the island's natural beauty without the hassle of peak season crowds. Plus, accommodations tend to be more affordable during these months. Peak season = Summer (June to August) and the Holidays (December to early January)

Estimated Pricing:

Mid-range: $2,055 – $4,065 per person**
Luxury: $4,065 – $6,315 per person**

**Airfare is not included in the estimated pricing, as fare pricing can vary significantly depending on your departure city

Day 1

Arrival & Relaxation at the Hotel

Arrive in Kauai: Fly into Lihue Airport (LIH), where you'll be greeted with the island's lush landscapes and refreshing trade winds.
Hotel Check-in: Choose a beachside resort such as the Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort & Spa (Poipu), Koloa Landing Resort, or the 1 Hotel Hanalei Bay (North Shore), depending on your preferred area of the island.
Evening: Unwind and explore your resort. Take a leisurely walk along the beach or watch the sunset. Enjoy a relaxing dinner at the hotel or a nearby beach restaurant.

Day 2

Beach Day & Hotel Amenities

Morning: Start your day with a delicious breakfast at the hotel or a local café. Spend the morning lounging by the beach or pool, with optional water activities like stand-up paddleboarding or kayaking.
Afternoon: Head to Poipu Beach (South Shore) for sunbathing, swimming, and people-watching. Poipu is known for its calm waters and is a great place to spot sea turtles and monk seals. Or Hanalei Bay (North Shore)
Evening: Enjoy a sunset dinner at The Beach House (South Shore), offering oceanfront views and fresh seafood. Or at Bar Acuda in the North Shore for some delicious tapas.

Day 3

Snorkeling Adventure

Morning: After breakfast, head to one of Kauai's top snorkeling spots, like Tunnels Beach (North Shore) or Kīlauea Lighthouse. Both are known for crystal-clear waters and vibrant marine life. Rent snorkeling gear or join a guided snorkeling tour.
Lunch: Pack a picnic or stop by a beachside restaurant. Consider Hanalei Bay for a relaxing lunch by the water after your snorkeling adventure.
Afternoon: Continue exploring the water by either snorkeling again or enjoying the beach.
Evening: Return to your hotel for some downtime, then enjoy a casual dinner in Hanalei Town or back at your resort.

Day 4

Helicopter Tour of Nā Pali Coast

Morning: Get an early start and head to Princeville Airport (North Shore) for your helicopter tour of the Nā Pali Coast. This tour offers breathtaking views of the rugged coastline, waterfalls, and hidden beaches.
Afternoon: Spend the afternoon at leisure, either relaxing at the hotel.
Evening: Enjoy a sunset cruise along the Nā Pali Coast or relax at the resort.

Day 5

Adventure or Explore More Beaches

Morning: Take a scenic drive to Ke’e Beach or Hanalei Bay, depending on your location. Both beaches are perfect for beach walks, swimming, and relaxation.
- For adventure: Consider a guided hike on the Kalalau Trail, which starts at Ke’e Beach and offers incredible views of the Nā Pali Coast. The full trail is a multi-day hike, but you can do a short section, like the first 2 miles to Hanakapiai Beach.
- For relaxation: Take a more leisurely approach, lounging by the beach or enjoying the resort amenities, such as a spa treatment or a yoga class.
Afternoon: Spend the afternoon enjoying some free time. You could opt for a kayak tour down the Wailua River or visit Allerton Garden in the National Tropical Botanical Garden to see some of Kauai’s rarest plant species.
Evening: End your day with a traditional Hawaiian luau at your resort or a local venue, where you can enjoy live music, hula dancing, and delicious Hawaiian food.

Day 6

Departure Day

Morning: Enjoy one last breakfast on the island, whether it's on your resort’s patio or at a local café.
Before You Go: If time allows, take a final walk on the beach or do some last-minute shopping for souvenirs like locally made jewelry, artwork, or Kauai coffee.
Departure: Head to Lihue Airport for your flight home.

The Details

1. Accommodation (5 nights)

Mid-range Hotels/Resorts:
- Approx. $300–$600 per night for a standard room
- Total for 5 nights: $1,500–$3,000
Luxury Resorts:
- Approx. $600–$1,500 per night
- Total for 5 nights: $3,000–$7,500

2. Activities

Helicopter Tour of Nā Pali Coast: $275–$350 per person
Snorkeling Excursion: $100–$150 per person
Beach Activities and Rentals
- Stand-up Paddleboard, Kayak, or Beach Chair Rentals: $25–$50 per day per rental
Sunset Cruise: $80–$150 per person
Luau Dinner Experience: $100–$150 per person

3. Meals

Breakfast:
- Hotel breakfast (Buffet or à la carte): $20–$40 per person per day
- Total for 5 days: $200–$400 per person
Lunch:
- Average meal at a casual restaurant or café: $15–$25 per person
- Total for 5 days (2 people): $150–$250
Dinner:
- Mid-range restaurant: $30–$60 per person
- Total for 5 dinners (2 people): $300–$600
Total for meals for 2 people (5 days): $650–$1,250

4. Transportation

Car Rental (pending car type):
- $75–$200 per day
- Total for 5 days: $375-$1000
Gas:
- For a 5-day rental, expect to pay around $50–$100+ for gas, depending on your driving.
Parking:
- If you're staying at a resort, parking can range from $15–$45+ per day (or included in the resort fee).
- Total for 5 days: $75–$225

5. Miscellaneous

Souvenirs and extra activities:
- $50–$200 for local crafts, Hawaiian jewelry, coffee, etc.

Estimated Total Cost (for 2 people):

Accommodation:
- Mid-range: $1,500–$3,000
- Luxury: $3,000–$7,500
Activities (Helicopter Tour, Snorkeling, Luau, etc.): $1,410–$2,350
Meals: $650–$1,250
Transportation (Car Rental, Gas, Parking): $500-$1325
Miscellaneous (Souvenirs, etc.): $50–$200

Grand Total (per person):

Mid-range: $2,055 – $4,065
Luxury: $4,065 – $6,315

These estimates are based on general pricing and can vary depending on the time of year, specific bookings, single vs double occupancy, and personal preferences. Booking in advance, especially for accommodation and activities, can help manage costs.