The best family activities on Kauai
Adventures from Mauka to Makai
With so many sights and landscapes, explore the best family activities on Kauai to find that perfect tour. And what the island may lack in size, it makes up for in activities. Kauai’s landscape hosts family-appropriate activities from mauka to makai at roughly thirty-three miles long and twenty-five miles wide.
Adventure through rainforests on an ATV tour or family-friendly excursions to waterfalls. And create memories you won’t forget, ziplining over jungle canopies and mountain tubing through historical irrigation systems. Explore the remote coast of Kauai on one of our snorkeling tours and come face-to-face with schools of colorful fish, sea turtles, and brilliant seascapes. Or gift your family with the cultural experience of a luau, and enjoy traditional Hawaiian food while you learn about the culture and history of the islands through mesmerizing dances.
Whether you are looking for a cultural, adventurous, or relaxing vacation, our tours provide options for all kinds of family-friendly activities. And the convenience of getting around a small island means you can fit even more into your trip!
Our Most Recommended Kauai Family Tours
You and your family will love spending time on the island of Kauai. There are many great activities for all ages, protected beaches for swimming, and splendid resorts tailored to families. You will love this quiet island.
Most Fun Family Tours with Kids
Having fun with your children is the #1 priority on vacation to Hawaii, and we can help you deliver on that. Check out some of the adventures, sightseeing tours, luaus, and ziplines that will put a happy smile on everyoneʻs face.
FAQ For Families Visiting Kauai
What are some popular family activities on Kauai?
Kauai offers a wide range of family-friendly activities, including:
- Beaches: Enjoy swimming, snorkeling, and building sandcastles at family-friendly beaches such as Poipu Beach, Lydgate Beach Park, and Anini Beach.
- Boat Tours: Take a boat tour along the stunning Na Pali Coast, where you can spot dolphins, sea turtles, and even whales during the migration season.
- Hiking: Explore the beautiful landscapes of Kauai with family-friendly hikes, such as the Maha’ulepu Heritage Trail, Sleeping Giant Trail, and Kuilau Ridge Trail.
- Kauai Plantation Railway: Ride a historic train through the Kilohana Plantation, learning about the island’s agricultural history and enjoying the scenic views.
- Smith Family Garden Luau: Experience a traditional Hawaiian luau with delicious food and engaging cultural performances suitable for the whole family.
- Waimea Canyon: Discover the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific” with various lookout points and easy hikes suitable for children.
Are there any kid-friendly snorkeling spots on Kauai?
Yes, Kauai has several kid-friendly snorkeling spots, including:
- Poipu Beach: This beach has a protected area with calm waters, making it ideal for kids to snorkel and see colorful fish and sea turtles.
- Lydgate Beach Park: With its rock-enclosed swimming area and calm waters, this beach provides a safe environment for children to snorkel.
- Anini Beach: Featuring a large fringing reef, Anini Beach offers shallow waters and gentle waves, perfect for young snorkelers.
Always supervise children closely while snorkeling and be aware of changing ocean conditions.
Are there any family-friendly zipline tours on Kauai?
Yes, there are several family-friendly zipline tours on Kauai, such as:
- Koloa Zipline: Offering a variety of ziplines and a unique “Flyin’ Kauaian” harness that allows you to zip hands-free, Koloa Zipline is suitable for children aged 7 and older.
- Princeville Ranch Adventures: This tour combines ziplining with a short hike and a swim in a waterfall-fed swimming hole, suitable for children aged 8 and older.
- Skyline Eco-Adventures: With a range of zipline options, including some designed for children aged 8 and older, Skyline Eco-Adventures provides a thrilling experience for the whole family.
Check the specific age, weight, and height requirements for each tour to ensure that it is suitable for your children.
What are some educational activities for families on Kauai?
Kauai offers several educational activities for families, including:
- Kauai Museum: Learn about Kauai’s history, art, and culture through exhibits and hands-on activities suitable for children.
- Limahuli Garden and Preserve: Explore this botanical garden, part of the National Tropical Botanical Garden, featuring native Hawaiian plants and a self-guided tour highlighting the cultural and ecological history of the area.
- Kilauea Point National Wildlife Refuge: Visit this refuge to observe native Hawaiian birds and learn about the island’s unique wildlife and ecosystems.