Nicknamed the Garden Isle, Kauaʻi is known for its verdant valleys, lush greenery and epic hiking trails. The island is also lined with beautiful beaches. From stretches of soft white sand to rugged coastlines, these are the five best beaches on Kauaʻi, according to our 2026 Readers’ Choice Awards. READ MORE: Get Expert Ocean Safety Tips From the Honolulu Ocean Safety Department 1. Hanalei Bay Our […]
On a trip to Kauaʻi, I woke to the sun illuminating the sky above Kalapakī Beach. From my lānai, I watched locals heading out for morning swims while families wandered onto the sand to begin their day. Even if it’s just for a night or two, there’s something refreshing about trading the bustle of Honolulu for the slower pace of a
This June, Outrigger Kauaʻi Beach Resort & Spa unveiled a transformed property featuring elevated accommodations, refreshed gathering spaces and a new culinary destination. Created in partnership with internationally acclaimed chef Roy Yamaguchi, a pioneer of Hawaiʻi Regional Cuisine, Ocean House by Roy Yamaguchi reflects a shared commitment to highlighting the people, ingredients and traditions that
In a quiet Kaua‘i neighborhood, where plantation-era homes sit beside a modest mix of local shops and businesses, Tip Top Motel, Café, & Bakery endures as a beloved institution. The food is straightforward and comforting, the service warm and unpretentious, and each visit feels like home. As it approaches its 110th anniversary, Tip Top stands
With its peaceful energy, Kauaʻi is often regarded as a place of healing. That energy—mixed with the island’s spiritual retreats, health clubs and unique spa services—has been attracting travelers and locals for years. While the wellness industry has boomed lately—today it’s worth about $2 trillion, according to McKinsey & Co.—communities on the Garden Isle have
From flying saucers and saimin to kūlolo, Kauaʻi is known for a few signature dishes. But beyond its iconic foods, the Garden Isle is also home to unforgettable eateries that are off the beaten path. You just need to know where to look. 1. Japanese Grandma’s Café Tucked in the colorful town of Hanapēpē, Japanese Grandma’s Café serves a blend of authentic and
Kaua‘i’s rainy North Shore is particularly verdant as I make my way to Common Ground in Kīlauea from my home on the south side. The 83-acre property, once home to the Kīlauea Sugar and Guava Kai plantations, has been repurposed as a community gathering place and a starting point for future agricultural projects. The sun-soaked
With its lush rainforests and fewer crowds, Kauaʻi feels wild and uncharted. As the oldest of the main Hawaiian Islands, its beauty has been shaped by millions of years of wind, rain and waves, and its natural wonders are unrivaled. Here are five incredible landmarks on Kauaʻi that you won’t soon forget. 1. Waimea Canyon
In heavenly Hanalei, lush fields of kalo and pristine beaches are set against Kauaʻi’s misty mountains. Before the arrival of Westerners, Hawaiians cultivated kalo in Hanalei Valley on the island’s north shore, creating extensive loʻi (taro fields). Kalo is used to make poi, which continues to be a staple starch in Hawaiian culture. Hanalei was
ICYMI: Running clubs seem to be everywhere. You might have noticed while scrolling on your social media feed that many of your friends and colleagues are active in run clubs. In a place like Hawaiʻi where connection matters, these clubs offer a way to stay active, meet people and experience the Islands on foot. Whether you’re a kamaʻāina or a visitor, most clubs are free and you typically just have
Kauaʻi is one of my favorite Hawaiian Islands to visit—and I’m not alone. The Garden Isle was voted the Best Island in HAWAIʻI Magazine’s Readers’ Choice Awards in 2025. From verdant valleys and majestic coastlines to laid-back and charming towns, Kauaʻi makes for an unforgettable getaway. And while it’s become a popular destination, Kauaʻi still
It’s common to hear people say they are enamored with Poʻipū. With its picturesque beaches, top-notch restaurants and interesting archaeological sites, it’s no surprise. The sunny town on the island’s south shore exudes the warmth and laid-back vibes characteristic of many beach communities in Hawaiʻi. And while Poʻipū is a popular destination among travelers, it
