Krista & Aaron
Things To Do
Hanakāpīʻai Falls
The first 2 miles of this hike is part of the Kalalau trail - The trail we went on and got engaged at the end! While we aren't recommending doing the full 3 day hike, the first 2 miles & 2 miles to Hanakapiai Falls make a great day hike (8 miles round trip, 4 round trip to Hanakapiai beach). You have to reserve a permit 30 days in advance for this hike, and they do sell out very quickly. We don't recommend doing this the day of the wedding - it is definitely a full day activity. To access Ke'e beach you will need this permit as well. This is a must - do activity if you like hiking. *Please do not attempt to swim at Hanakapiai beach, Ke'e beach is great for swimming.
Hanalei Bay
We think Hanalei Bay is Hawaii’s crown jewel. You will have to see for yourself, but walking the beach in Hanalei will make you feel like you are walking in heaven - it is just that breathtaking. You will see why Kauai’s North Shore has become our favorite part of the world when you see Hanalei Bay. In the summer it is a great beach for swimming, and family friendly. It is also just a short walk to Hanalei Town shopping and restaurants.
The Hanalei Dolphin Restaurant
If you want the best sushi of your life...you have to try the Dolphin. They do not take reservations, it is first come first serve. PRO TIP - show up at 4:30 and put your name on the list to be seated when they open at 5. Spend your day at Hanalei Beach, bring a quick change of clothes or cover up. Sitting at the sushi bar is highly recommended. Oh, and make sure to order the Omakase. You will likely find us here...it is our favorite restaurant on the island.
Wailua River
OK - this "excursion" is one of our favorite day activities. You can rent your own kayak or paddle board and experience it without a tour guide, or you can sign up for the kayak tour. Either way, heading down the river, then hiking to a secret waterfall is an amazing way to spend the day. We personally have never done the tour - we like having our own time and paddle boarding, but if you're bringing kids, or simply like a tour guide I provided a link to Kayak Kauai! It's about a 45 minute kayak ~2 miles, followed by a 1 mile hike that is mostly flat, and then back. After, we recommend rewarding yourself with a nice cold beer and lunch at Napali Brewery in Kapaa!
Napali Brewing Co.
One of the newer places on the island. The IPA is a must try - even if you're not an IPA person! There are a few breweries on the island, but this is our personal favorite. It is one of those places you walk in and you're immediately treated like family, or as the Hawaiians say 'Ohana.
Tahiti Nui
Situated in Hanalei Town - this place is perfect for our dive bar lovers. Its best to go on Fridays nights - closed on Saturdays. There's live music and a great vibe. Also the food is amazing, not to mention they are famous for their Mai Tai's. Krista's favorite dish here is the Tuna Carpaccio. We've gone back there a few times just for that. It was featured in the movie "The Descendants" with George Clooney. We recommend watching that movie while planning your trip!
Lava Lava Beach Club
Fun outdoor, beach setting restaurant. Live music & yard games.
Ching Young Village Shopping Center
For all our guests who love shopping - this shopping center has just about everything from jewelry, art, aloha inspired clothing and souvenirs to bring back home.
Kalalea Juice Hale
A great place for Acai bowls.
Kauai Humane Society
Take a shelter dog on a field trip! Foster a dog for a day and bring them on your day of activities. $40 donation to the humane society.
Welina Terrace
This is one of the fine dining restaurants on the island. It's situated in the 1 Hotel overlooking Hanalei Bay. Reservations are required and they do book up fast. The food is incredible - but the view is magic. Make sure you go at sunset.
Common Ground Kauai
During the week, our wedding venue does a farm and food tour. You get a tour of the property and meal at the end.
Waimea Canyon State Park
Nicknamed the “Grand Canyon of Kauai”. Located on the west side of the island, this offers many beautiful lookouts and different hikes.
Anini Beach
Located near Princeville. Anini Beach is a great beach for swimming and for kids.
Kauaʻi Coffee Company
At Kauai Coffee Company you can take self guided walking tours, do a coffee tasting, and ship some excellent coffee back home. It is the largest coffee farm in the United States. This would be a great stop before or after visiting Waimea Canyon.
Wishing Well Shave Ice
You can’t go to Hawaii without trying “Shave Ice”. Not to be confused with “shaved ice”, the Hawaiians call it “Shave Ice”. ;)
Poipu Beach
On Hawaii’s South Shore you’ll find Poipu Beach. Here you’ll likely see sleeping Hawaiian Monk Seals, and lots of turtles! It’s a great place to snorkel, and lifeguard protected for safety. Family friendly and an umbrella is a must for some shade! It’s very close to Koloa Town, where you’ll find great restaurants and some high end shopping.