Itinerary help

Question

Just looking for some input, open to changes and tips. Staying near Popiu beach. Have a rental car.

Day 1:

AM: Captain Andy boat tour raft cave& snorkel 4 hours

PM: Waimea state park for some hiking, any tips on hikes to do?

Day 2:

AM: early start for North Shore ha ena state park to hike kahula trail- ke e beach to hanakapi'ai 6km round trip, if we add waterfall its 10km, we know we need permit

PM:(1 of 2 afternoons in north shore) to explore kahula lighthouse, secret beach, hanelai bay, and tunnels beach. Will bring snorkel gear.

Day 3:

AM: Drive tree tunnel to Lihue, check out shipwreak beach cliff jumpers and wailea falls. Anything else worth checking out in Lihue or is this already too much?

PM: (2 of 2 afternoons in north shore) to explore kahula lighthouse, secret beach, hanelai bay, and tunnels beach. Will bring snorkel gear.

Day 4: Doing anything that got missed due to weather. Also considering kauai safaris rum tour koala, kayaking at secret falls, a farm tour such as botanicial gardens in princeville, or kelepa ridge trail. Any input on these ideas would be appreciated.

Day 5: Fly out

Answer

Your Kauai itinerary looks ambitious but doable, especially with a rental car. A few adjustments and tips can help maximize your experience without feeling too rushed.

Day 1: Captain Andy’s boat tour is a great start. For Waimea Canyon in the afternoon:

Consider the Canyon Trail to Waipo’o Falls (3.6 miles round trip, moderate). The views are fantastic without overexertion.
The Iliau Nature Loop is short and easy if you prefer something very light before dinner.
Make sure to check sunset times; Waimea Canyon lookout is stunning in late afternoon light.

Day 2: North Shore hike from Ke’e to Hanakapi’ai:

6 km round trip to Hanakapi’ai Beach is doable; adding the waterfall makes it 10 km which could be strenuous if the trail is muddy. Start early to avoid heat.
Remember to obtain your trail permit in advance; they are strictly enforced.
For snorkeling at Tunnels Beach or Haneli Bay in the afternoon, plan 2-3 hours and check currents; mornings tend to be calmer for snorkeling.

Day 3: Drive through the Tree Tunnel and explore Lihue area:

Shipwreck Beach and Waimea Falls are great stops. Waimea Falls requires a park entry fee but is scenic and family-friendly.
Wailua River State Park offers short, easy walks along the river if you want another quick stop.
Depending on timing, Kapa’a town is charming for a coffee or lunch break and local shopping.

Day 4: Flexible day to catch anything missed or try special activities:

Kauai Safari Rum Tour is fun but requires a reservation; check pickup times.
Kayaking to Secret Falls is popular but depends on river conditions; guided tours recommended for safety.
Botanical gardens in Princeville offer a relaxed morning or afternoon if you prefer something low-key.
Kelepa Ridge Trail offers panoramic views but is moderately strenuous; evaluate energy levels before committing.

General Tips:

Traffic is generally light, but mornings are best for hikes and early starts to popular spots.
Pack water, snacks, and sun protection for all hikes and beach visits.
Some North Shore beaches may have strong surf; check conditions if planning to snorkel or swim.
Use your rental car strategically to minimize backtracking; consider grouping nearby attractions in the same half-day.

Overall, your plan balances adventure and relaxation fairly well. Just be flexible and allow extra time for unexpected stops—Kauai’s scenery often tempts spontaneous photo breaks!

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