First time in Kauai

Question

Hi! We’re visiting in April and staying at Grand Hyatt for 4 days and 3 nights. Any itinerary/ restaurant recommendations? My kids are 9 and 11. Thank u so much!

Answer

How exciting! Kauai is a beautiful island with plenty of family-friendly activities, and staying at the Grand Hyatt is a great choice – it's located in a central spot in Poipu with easy access to many of the island’s top attractions. Here's a suggested itinerary with recommendations for things to do, along with some great restaurant options for you and your kids to enjoy.

Day 1: Arrival & Relaxing at the Resort

Since you’ll be arriving and checking in, spend the first day relaxing and enjoying the amenities at the Grand Hyatt. The resort is very family-friendly, with a large pool area that includes a lazy river, waterslides, and lagoons where your kids can have fun. You can also take a walk along the nearby Shipwreck Beach for some great views.

Day 2: Waimea Canyon & Koke’e State Park

Start your day with a trip to the famous Waimea Canyon, often called the "Grand Canyon of the Pacific." It’s a bit of a drive from Poipu (about 1.5 hours), but the views are absolutely stunning, and the kids will enjoy looking out over the expansive canyon. You can take a short hike along the Waimea Canyon Lookout Trail or visit the Koke'e State Park for more scenic views and accessible trails. The Shannon's Flat Trail is easy and perfect for kids, with a nice spot to picnic while enjoying the views.

Day 3: Napali Coast Boat Tour & Beach Time

In the morning, consider taking a boat tour of the famous Napali Coast. It’s a must-see, with its towering cliffs and pristine beaches. Many companies offer family-friendly boat tours, where you can see the coastline and maybe even spot dolphins, sea turtles, or whales (if you're visiting during the right season). These boat tours can be a great way to experience the island's natural beauty.

In the afternoon, head back to the resort and enjoy some relaxation time at Poipu Beach, one of the best beaches for families in Kauai. The water is calm and perfect for swimming or snorkeling. There’s also a natural tide pool where kids can safely spot fish and other marine life.

Day 4: Kauai Coffee Company & Departure

On your last day, take a short drive to the Kauai Coffee Company, which offers free tours and tastings. It's a great way to learn about Kauai’s coffee culture while enjoying some beautiful scenery. Your kids might enjoy seeing the coffee plants and trying out the different flavors. Then, depending on your departure time, you can relax at the resort or visit Allerton Garden at the nearby National Tropical Botanical Garden, which has a family-friendly walking tour and is just a short drive from the Grand Hyatt.

Restaurant Recommendations

Keoki’s Paradise - Located in Poipu, this restaurant has a lively atmosphere with Hawaiian-inspired cuisine, perfect for families. The outdoor seating area is great, and the kids will love the hula dancers and the tropical surroundings.
The Beach House - Also in Poipu, this spot offers oceanfront dining with great seafood and views of the sunset. It’s casual but beautiful, and the kids can enjoy the nearby beach before or after the meal.
Rob’s Good Times Grill - If you're in the mood for something more casual, this local spot is perfect for a relaxed meal. It offers burgers, seafood, and other comfort foods in a family-friendly setting.
Lappert’s Ice Cream - No trip to Kauai is complete without some local ice cream! Stop by Lappert’s for a scoop of delicious ice cream or sorbet. There’s a shop in Hanapepe as well as in Poipu.

Additional Activities for Kids

Mini-Golf at Kauai Lagoons Golf Club - A fun activity for families with kids of all ages. The course is scenic and very family-friendly.
Kauai Sea Tours - If your kids enjoy snorkeling, a family-friendly snorkeling tour would be a fantastic addition to your trip. The tours to Nualolo Kai on the Napali Coast are great, and the tour operators are experienced with children.
Poipu Beach Park - A great spot for a picnic, playing in the sand, and swimming. It’s also a good place for kids to spot monk seals that occasionally haul up onto the beach to sunbathe.

There’s a lot to see and do in Kauai that’s family-friendly, and staying at the Grand Hyatt will give you a comfortable base to relax and enjoy your vacation. I hope this gives you some ideas for your trip, and you and your family will have a wonderful time!