We are here in Kauai and a little lost where to eat

Question

Hi! Oddly I cannot find my forum post from when I booked this trip

In any case we checked in today (family of 5, 3 kids) at grand Hyatt poipu.

Can’t figure out where to eat!

The kids are on the picky side don’t really eat seafood but might eat a grilled salmon somewhere. Otherwise they eat vegetarian pizza pasta etc.

Husband eats everything. I am pickier than the kids in some ways lol. No meat no seafood at all but would eat a veggie sushi

Any suggestions places to eat nearby the hotel and also in other parts of the island when we are exploring?

Thank you so much!!

Also would love hikes to do that the kids can handle (about an hour) especially if there’s one with waterfalls !

Answer

Welcome to Kauai! Poipu and the south shore have a good mix of family-friendly restaurants, casual spots, and local Hawaiian cuisine, so you’ll have plenty of options that can satisfy picky eaters, vegetarians, and seafood lovers alike. Since you’re staying at the Grand Hyatt Poipu, you’re in a great central location for exploring nearby restaurants and other parts of the island.

Here are some nearby options close to your hotel that should suit your family’s needs:

Keoki’s Paradise: Very family-friendly, diverse menu with pizza, pasta, and grilled fish options; casual Hawaiian atmosphere.
The Beach House: Scenic oceanfront dining; offers grilled fish, vegetarian dishes, and some pasta options. Great for sunset views.
Living Foods Market & Café: Located in Poipu, good for fresh vegetarian-friendly bowls, sandwiches, and snacks.
JO2 Natural Cuisine: Slightly more upscale, creative menu with vegetarian and pescatarian options; check for sushi rolls or grilled salmon.
Puka Dog: Casual, fun Hawaiian-style hot dogs; kids often enjoy the novelty, and vegetarian options may be available.

For exploring other parts of the island, consider these family-friendly spots:

Hanalei Taro & Juice Company: On the north shore, casual local food with vegetarian-friendly options.
Bar Acuda: In Hanalei, tapas-style small plates, vegetarian options, and seafood for those who eat it.
Kalapaki Joe’s: Near Lihue, family-friendly with pizzas, pasta, and some seafood.
Kauai Juice Co. & Smoothies: Great for quick, healthy meals or snacks while exploring.

For kid-friendly hikes, especially those around an hour long, waterfalls, and accessible paths, consider:

Opaekaa Falls Lookout: Easy paved path with short trails to viewpoints; minimal effort, great for kids, amazing waterfall views.
Waimea Canyon Lookouts & Short Trails: Some short trails near the rim that are under an hour with stunning canyon views.
Wailua Falls: Can be viewed easily from the parking lot; short walk if you want to get closer.
Huleia National Wildlife Refuge Trails: Flat, short, kid-friendly paths through scenic landscapes.

Tips:

Try to plan lunch or early dinner at restaurants with outdoor seating so kids can move around a bit.
Make reservations if possible at popular spots, especially for dinner, as Poipu restaurants can fill up quickly.
Pack snacks and water for hikes; many trails do not have facilities nearby.

Overall, you’ll find plenty of options for both meals and short, manageable hikes. Balancing beach time, short hikes, and scenic drives will give your family a fun and memorable Kauai experience without exhausting anyone.

We are here in Kauai and a little lost where to eat

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