Getting ashore
Ships call at Nawiliwili Harbor on the south-east coast of Kauai. Check your ship’s notice for the berth and any tender.
Watch-outs
The island is green and very wet in places, so bring a light waterproof. Roads are narrow and winding, and driving times are longer than they look. Book tours in advance.
Lihue and Nawiliwili
Lihue is the island’s county seat, a few minutes away, with shops and the Kauai Museum. Nawiliwili has a small harbour and a beach.
Waimea Canyon
Waimea Canyon , the Grand Canyon of the Pacific, is about an hour’s drive away, with lookouts over the red and green canyon walls.
Na Pali coast
The Na Pali coast is famous for its cliffs and valleys. Boat tours go along the coast in season, and the Kalalau Trail is a challenging hike.
Wailua River
The Wailua River has kayak tours and the Fern Grotto, with boats and walks through the rainforest.
Food & shopping
Hawaiian food includes poke, shave ice and plate lunches. Restaurants in Lihue and the harbour are the easiest choice.
Money & connectivity
The currency is the US dollar. Cards are accepted almost everywhere. Mobile signal is limited in the mountains.
Accessibility & mobility
The harbour and Lihue are flat. Waimea Canyon lookouts are reached by short paths, while the Na Pali trails are steep and rough. Ask your operator for accessible vehicles and boats.