Kauai is my second favorite island, besides Oahu of course! I’ve been a few times and my heart still yearns to go back; it’s hard to resist the natural beauty and tranquility that the island offers.
While the Hawaiian Islands are generally an expensive place to vacation, there are a bunch of things to see and do that won’t cost you a dime. Here are 9 free things to do on Kauai!
Free Things To Do On Kauai
1. Drive up to Waimea Canyon
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I have to start with Waimea Canyon of course, it’s one of the most incredible sights on the island! Nicknamed the Grand Canyon of the Pacific, make sure to head to the western end of the island to see this natural wonder.
2. Watch a live Tahitian performance
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Poipu Shopping Village actually has free live entertainment every Monday and Thursday at 4:30pm. From Tahitian performances, to knife fire dancing and live music, there’s something different to see at the center courtyard every week.
3. Visit Wailua Falls
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Located in Lihue, this 173 foot waterfall is a must-see. It’s been featured in many movies and one of the main attractions on the island.
4. Check out Kauai’s Hindu Monastery
Located in Kapaa, we visited this site on our drive up to Princeville on my most recent trip to Kauai. This beautiful monastery was freely open to visitors, where you could walk to grounds and even enter the monastery if you wish. While we don’t practice Hinduism, we thought it was a beautiful and peaceful location, and a nice stop at the beginning of our location.
5. Witness The Spouting Horn
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Situated on the southern coast, a lava shelf in this area naturally eroded and created an opening where the ocean springs through, known as The Spouting Horn. With it’s audible groaning and occasional eruptions, it’s gained quite the popularity over the years. Just make sure to admire from afar; the ocean can be dangerous and tourists have lost their lives by stepping over the fenced barriers and getting too close.
6. Come hungry to the Kauai Culinary Market
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Located at The Shops at Kukui’ula, this culinary market is held weekly on Wednesdays from 3:30pm – 6:00pm, with live cooking demonstrations at 5:00pm. Come here for a farmer’s market experience and take a look at a bunch of local grown food, with fresh fruits, vegetables, jam, spices, and more!
7. Marvel at Shipwreck Beach
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There are a ton of beaches on Kauai, don’t explore just one! If you need a place to start though, Shipwreck Beach is a popular location for visitors and locals alike. It’s a hotspot for bodyboarders because of the shore break, and it’s conveniently located in front of The Grand Hyatt.
8. Take pictures at Hanalei Lookout
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Hanalei is one of my favorite areas of the island! If you’re headed in that direction, make sure to stop at The Hanalei Lookout. The view of the valley is beautiful, and definitely worth a couple of pictures.
9. Visit the Blue Room Kauai
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Waikapalae cave, also known as “The Blue Room”, was a gorgeous blue grotto on the northern coast of the island. The sun reflecting off the wet cave resulted in a vibrant blue hue, and while diminishing water levels have lessened the effect, it can still be a wonder under the right conditions. Swimming is also discouraged, but is doesn’t hurt to take a gander if you are in the area.
