Kauai 20 Years Later

Question

It has been 20 years since my girlfriend and I visited Kauai. A lot has changed since then, We are now married and have three kids and are planning to come out this June (entire family). Last time we stayed in Kapaa and I liked the fact that it was in the middle which made trips to the south and north easier. We are going to stay at the Waipouli Beach Resort. I'm looking for recommendations on boat cruise/snorkle trips that ideally don't break the bank. Is there a luau that we can catch that does not require us to eat there (kids are still in the picky stage)? We did not do kayaking the last time we were there. Is there a company that you can recommend for that? And lastly, I believe we boogey-boarded at Kealia Beach. Is it still safe to do that there? If not, do you have another recommendation. Thanks in advance.

Answer

Welcome back to Kauai! It’s wonderful that you are returning with your family after 20 years. Staying at Waipouli Beach Resort in Kapaa is a great choice, as it provides a central location for exploring both the north and south shores of the island, making daily excursions convenient.

For boat cruises and snorkeling trips that are budget-friendly, there are several operators that cater to families and offer good value:

Kauai Sea Tours: Offers morning and afternoon snorkel trips along the Na Pali Coast with options for families. Their smaller boats make for a more personal experience.
Captain Andy’s Sailing Adventures: Provides both sail and snorkeling trips, including kid-friendly options. Prices are reasonable for the duration and amenities included.
Kauai Atlantis Submarine Tours: If snorkeling isn’t ideal for all family members, this is an exciting underwater experience that avoids swimming yet allows you to see tropical fish and reefs.

Regarding luaus, if you want the cultural experience without committing the kids to a full meal:

Smith’s Tropical Paradise Luau: Offers a tour-only option where you can attend the show and enjoy the dancing and music without purchasing the full buffet. It’s educational and entertaining for kids.
Luau Kalamaku at Kilohana Plantation: While this is farther from Kapaa, they sometimes allow attendees to watch the performance without dining, but it’s best to call ahead to confirm availability for non-dining tickets.

Kayaking is a great addition for your family, especially in Kauai’s scenic rivers and coastal areas. Recommended companies include:

Kayak Kauai Tours: Offers guided tours on the Wailua River, which is calm and scenic, suitable for families with children. They also provide options for combined kayak and hike adventures to waterfalls.
Smith Family Adventures: Specializes in family-friendly kayaking and snorkeling trips along the Wailua River and nearby areas, with experienced guides and safety equipment for kids.

Regarding boogie-boarding, Kealia Beach is still accessible, but conditions can vary. The beach has strong currents at times, so it’s best to check daily surf reports and consider the following alternatives if you want safer options for kids:

Lydgate Beach Park (Kapaa): Features a protected swimming and wave pool area that is ideal for kids learning to boogie-board or body surf.
Poipu Beach (South Shore): Has a gentle, family-friendly cove area suitable for boogie-boarding, snorkeling, and swimming, with lifeguards on duty.
Hanalei Bay (North Shore): Usually has bigger waves, better for experienced boarders. Suitable for older kids or adults, but less ideal for younger children.

Overall, staying in Kapaa allows you to access all major regions conveniently. You can mix in a few days of snorkeling or sailing trips, enjoy cultural shows without committing to full luaus, try kayaking on the calm Wailua River, and find safe beaches for boogie-boarding that suit your kids’ abilities. Always check current ocean conditions, as Kauai’s waves and currents can vary significantly in June.

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