15 BEST Things To Do In Kauai For Free (By An Expert!) 2025
Written By Jenny White | The Kai Life • Posted on December 1, 2024
Looking for the best free things to do in Kauai?
Hawaii is one of those bucket-list destinations where the costs can add up quickly. But here’s the good news from someone who is an avid visitor : you actually don’t have to spend a fortune to have an unforgettable trip to Kauai!
There are plenty of amazing things to do in Kauai for free that let you experience the garden island’s breathtaking beauty without breaking the bank.
We were engaged and also eloped on Tunnels Beach, our favorite place in Kauai.
Out of all my coastal travels, Kauai is the destination that I return to more than any other. From getting engaged to eloping on one of its best beaches, this island holds a really special place in my heart. After countless visits to Kauai, I’ve gotten to know everything from its well-loved landmarks to its hidden treasures.
The best part? Its free adventures aren’t just affordable—they’re some of the things that you’ll want to experience most during your time on the island.
To help you plan your Kauai itinerary, I’ve put together a list of iconic can’t-miss free experiences including some of its best kept secrets that won’t break the bank.
Short on time and looking for the best things for your Kauai trip?
Favorite Free Option :: Spend time daily at the beach
Fun Cheap Option :: Play mini golf in a botanical garden
Best Way To Give Back During Your Visit :: Volunteer to support locals & the island
15 Things To Do In Kauai For Free
From the moment you step off the plane in Lihue, you’ll understand why every moment that you’re in Kauai is a part of the experience.
Whether you’re stepping your feet in the sand on some of its breathtaking beaches, visiting vastly different landscapes all in one day, or experiencing local food & traditions, I hope that this list shared from my own experiences helps to make your visit one of your most memorable trips!
We love to visit Kauai as often as possible and figured out how to regularly travel buy one get one free, and completely on points so that we can go more often. I shared my exact process on how my husband flies to Hawaii for free with me because it works so well for us.
1. Spend Time daily On The Beaches
With over 50 miles in beaches, there is no shortage of absolutely stunning shoreline on Kauai. They all have different vibes and are so fun to experience.
Kauai’s Anini Beach. Image Source : Hawaii Tourism Authority (HTA) / Ben Ono.
Kauai’s beaches are just as diverse as the rest of the island. With some of the best beaches for families, snorkeling and surfing in the world, it truly offers a beach for every kind of visitor.
Here’s a few of my favorite beaches on all sides of the island to check out ::
- North Shore : Anini Beach – family friendly & awesome for snorkeling.
- East Side : Lydgate Beach – With enclosed saltwater pools, it’s considered one of the safest swimming spots on the island.
- South Side : Poipu Beach – Poipu is super popular with its wading pool and the buzz of the beachy town steps away.
- West Side : Salt Pond Beach Park – a quiet locals favorite spot with stunning sunsets
(Mostly) Free.
Almost all beaches on Kauai are free, with the exception of Ke’e Beach and Hāʻena Beach, which in recent years have moved to requiring reservations and payment.
You’ll seriously find gorgeous beaches around every turn.
Some beach parks do close at night, so be sure to check hours before your visit.
The winter months bring STRONG currents, enormous swells and rougher seas.
Be sure to fully investigate the beach you’re visiting. Read posted signs and follow your gut instincts.
Be sure to check safety information for swimming (and even walking!) on the beaches, as Hawaii has strong rip currents and swells, especially in the winter months.
The southern shore is known as the sunny side of the island. Head there if you want the best chances for clear skies!
2. Catch a sunrise & Sunset
On an island that you could technically drive across in 2-4 hours (depending on your route) – it’s totally possible to watch a sunrise AND a sunset in the same day.
Be sure to download a sunlight app like SunTracker or SunSeeker – the locations change pretty drastically on the island throughout the year.
Sunset in Hanalei Bay and Bali Hai. Image source : Hawaii Tourism Authority (HTA) / Tor Johnson
There are incredible spots all around the island to watch the sun do his thing. Some of my favorites have been ::
- Sunrise – Kealia Beach Park, Poipu Beach, Hanalei Bay
- Sunset – Tunnels Beach, Polihale Beach, Poipu Beach
3. Stroll through Kauai’s farmers markets
Also known as the “sunshine markets”, having a lazy day meandering through the Kauai markets is one of my favorite things to do when visiting Kauai.
Browsing a farmer’s market in Kauai. Image Source : Hawaii Tourism Authority (HTA) / Ben Ono.
The sunshine markets are one of the best ways to lean into local life. You’ll meet new friends, taste island favorites and find gifts & goodies all while supporting communities.
Some of my favorites are ::
- Anaina Hou Farmers Market – Saturdays, 9am – noon
- Coconut Market Place Farmers Market – Tuesday & Thursdays, 9am – 1pm
- Grove Farm Park – Saturdays, 9:30am – midday
- Hale Puna Farmers Market – Thursdays, 3pm – 5pm
- Hanalei Farmers Market – Saturdays, 9am – noon
- Kapaa Sunshine Market – Wednesdays, 3pm – 4:30pm
- Princeville Farmers & Art Market – Saturdays, 9:30am – 12:30pm (Check out the Princeville night market on the second Sunday of the month as well, it’s so wonderful!)
- Waipa Farmers Market – Tuesdays, 2pm – dusk
4. Volunteer to support Kauai’s local communities & Land
Volunteering your time is one of the most rewarding free experiences you can have on Kauai. It’s a chance to give back to the island while immersing yourself in its unique community and culture.
Beach clean-ups are one of my favorite ways to give back when visiting a beach.
There are a lot of different volunteer opportunities on the island. Some favorites are ::
- Do a beach cleanup with Surfrider Foundation (or on your own)
- Hang with a pup for the day through the Kauai Humane Society
- Assist at the National Tropical Botanical Gardens
- Help build affordable homes with Habitat For Humanity
5. Spend a day exploring Kauai’s North Shore
Visiting Kauai’s North Shore is a MUST during your visit to Kauai. With its quintessential Kauai charm, views for days, incredible shopping & restaurants, and something new around every corner, it might even become the best part of your trip.
Hanalei Center. Image Source : Hawaii Tourism Authority (HTA) / Tor Johnson.
If you’re staying on the south side, plan to spend an entire day up north. Leave early in the morning to make time stops along the way as things catch your eye. Let the day be lazy and make stops whenever you see something interesting. Definitely pull off to the fruit stands and at the viewpoints.
Kauai’s north shore is unlike anywhere else on the planet, literally one of my favorite places in the world. A few of our favorite things to do are ::
- Visit all of the beaches. We got engaged & married on Tunnels Beach and it’s one we return to time and time again.
- Spend the day exploring Hāen’a State Park. You’ll need an advance reservation, but it’s completely worth it to plan for this.
- Explore Hanalei Town. Shop in the local stores and galleries, and eat your heart out at favorite spots like The Dolphin Restaurant. Catch a sunset at the Hanalei Pier.
6. Enjoy the drive
One of my absolute FAVORITE ways to take in Kauai comes naturally when I go about my trip – enjoy the drive!
Enjoy the drive while you’re in Kauai.
Kauai is named the garden island for a reason. You’ll be immersed in tropical landscapes (screensaver worthy!) as you drive around the island and its rainforests.
Slow down your pace, turn on a local radio station, grab a coconut and make the drive an important part of your entire experience. Keep an eye out for ::
- Rainbow eucalyptus trees
- Gorgeous beaches & landscapes
- Tropical foliage all around you
- Waterfalls
- Fruit stands & local food trucks
- Roaming chickens
7. Explore gorgeous waterfalls
You’ll definitely see waterfalls during your time on Kauai, even if just from a distance. It’s incredible to watch how the landscapes transform after even a quick rainstorm. You can literally see waterfalls appear down the sides of mountains.
Wailua Falls. Image Source : Hawaii Tourism Authority (HTA) / Tor Johnson
Wailua Falls is a waterfall that you can see from the side of the road without a hike in. Visit in the earlier hours in hopes to catch a rainbow!
8. Swim with the fish
Kauai has an abundance of beaches and reefs to explore. If you love to take in a destination with goggles on, you’ll be in heaven.
Bring your gear with you to snorkel for free, or rent it cheaply. Be sure that you’re wearing reef safe sunscreen to protect Hawaii’s ocean life.
Some favorite snorkel spots are ::
- Anini Beach
- Mākua (Tunnels) Beach
- Kēʻē Beach and Hāʻena Beach Park (advanced reservations & fee required)
- Kipu Kai Beach
9. Drive through a tunnel of trees
There’s an actual tree tunnel on Kauai and if you’re spending any time in the Poipu area – it’ll be hard to miss.
The famous tree tunnel on Kauai. Image source : Hawaii Tourism Authority (HTA) / Tor Johnson
Located on Maluhia Road and lined with towering eucalyptus trees, the tunnel feels like something out of a movie. It’s the best welcome and will instantly set the tone for your trip.
Free.
The tree tunnel is located on Maluhia Road, just off of Kaumualii Highway on the way in/out of Koloa & Poipu.
Always open.
Have your tree tunnel song cued up and roll down those windows!
Don’t plan on stopping for pictures, take one in your head instead. Maluhia Road is regularly traveled – tourists stopping here is unsafe and frustrating for locals.
10. See Kauai’s famous spouting horn
Visiting Koloa’s spouting horn is one of the most popular free attractions in Kauai.
It’s mesmerizing to see the force of nature at Spouting Horn. You’ll witness water being shot nearly 60 feet into the air with every wave! This phenomena occurs from a natural lava tube.
The Spouting Horn in Koloa. Image source Hawaii Tourism Authority (HTA) / Daeja Fallas.
There’s multiple viewpoints and informational posts about the Spouting Horn throughout the area.
Free, with a large free parking lot.
The spouting horn is located on the south side, on Lawai Road in Koloa.
Always open.
The best time to visit is during high tide for the tallest spouts.
Sunset is also a magical time to visit and sometimes you’ll catch rainbows in the water as it shoots up!
11. Attend an art night & Walk Across a swinging bridge
Taking a walk across Hanapepe’s famous swinging bridge is timeless fun for all ages, a must-do when you’re on the island.
The swinging bridge in Hanapepe. Image source Hawaii Tourism Authority (HTA) / Tor Johnson + Jakob Owens
Plan a stop to the swinging bridge on a Friday night so that you can experience Hanapepe Art Night! You’ll find a buzz in town with gallery doors open, restaurants full of energy and creatives lining the streets with their crafts, art and music.
12. Take in Kauai’s wildlife – from a distance While Protecting It
There’s so much wildlife to see throughout your adventures in Kauai, and the most important thing to understand is how to take it in while protecting it.
Hawaiian Green Sea Turtle.
Hawaiian’s are passionate about protecting their wildlife and planet earth. The island is home to an abundance of nature including endangered species like Hawaiian monk seals, green sea turtles, humpback whales and a variety of birds. The locals believe that humans are guests on the land, and it’s crucial to respect this as visitors.
NOAA has a great resource with guidelines on viewing marine wildlife in Hawai’i. Also, be sure to check out U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service – they even offer free viewpoints around the island like Kīlauea Point NWR and Hanalei NWR.
Free things to do in Kauai (Still on my own bucket list)
There is such an abundance of activities to do in Kauai that every time I go, I add more to my own bucket list! I love to share these lists and update as I check them off.
13. Hike through paradise
One of my favorite ways to take in a new area is by hiking through it. It’s such a peaceful and authentic way to appreciate the land and take in those views. Walking & hiking is also one of the best ways to keep movement going on your vacation.
Hiking trails in Hawaii offer stunning views.
Even though I’ve visited Kauai many times, I have yet to go for an official hike. Kauai is home to an abundance of scenic trails through rainforests and along coasts. Some on my bucket list are ::
- Kuilau Ridge Trail
- Ho’opi’i Falls Trail (see 2 waterfalls!)
- Sleeping Giant Trail
- Wyllie Beach Hike (beautiful sunsets)
- Queens Bath Trail (closed in winter due to strong ocean conditions)
The Division of Forestry and Wildlife has a wonderful site with an outdoor app and interactive trail maps.
14. Catch the breeze on the Coconut Coast
Spend a morning taking in the views with the ocean breeze as your companion! I’ve technically stepped foot on this trail, but haven’t biked or hiked it.
Biking along the Kapaʻa Bike Path. Image source Hawaii Tourism Authority (HTA) / Tor Johnson
The Kapaʻa Bike Path is a 7.2 mile moderately challenging route that offers up stunning coastal views.
You can walk, jog or bike the trail. With beach parks scattered throughout the route, you could rent a bike and make an entire day out of it.
There’s a lot to see and explore on the Kapaʻa Bike Path. I’ll be using this in-depth guide as a resource when I visit.
Free & open to the public.
Park at Lydgate Beach Park for access to the southern part of the trail.
Park at Waipouli Beach Park at the Lihi Boat Ramp on Kaloloku Road for northern access.
There’s mixed information about the hours that the bike path is open. Some sources say that it’s open 24/7 and others list out hours. Always check signs before entering.
15. Experience free live entertainment at Poipu Shopping Village
In all of our visits to Kauai, we have yet to catch the free entertainment at Poipu Shopping Village, but I’m making it happen next visit and reporting back here!
Hula dancers. Image source Hawaii Tourism Authority (HTA) / Tor Johnson
Getting to experience the deep culture and history of music, dance and expression in Hawaii is an honor as a visitor. It’s such a vibrant way to immerse yourself in Hawaii and gain new appreciation for the culture.
Attending a luau is a great way to take in some history and culture, but it can get pricey. Visit the Poipu Shopping Village on a Monday or Thursday at 5pm for free music and traditional dancing.
Free & open to the public.
The center stage at the Poipu Shopping Village.
Mondays & Thursdays at 5pm.
Make a night of it with dinner and shopping in the village. It’s full of wonderful restaurants and galleries.
Cheap Things To Do In Kauai (Bonus!)
There are a ton of low cost ways to fill up your itinerary on the island. Below is a bonus section with some cheap things to do in Kauai.
16. Visit Kauai’s state parks
One of the things that always surprises me whenever I visit Kauai is how diverse the island is. You can easily go from rainforest to beach to a landscape that looks like you’re in the Grand Canyon in a single day.
Waimea Canyon State Park. Image source Hawaii Tourism Authority (HTA) / Ben Ono
Kauai’s State Parks are some of the best places to experience the landscapes of Kauai. There are 5 state parks on the island that are cheap (many are just $5!) to visit and offer so much to do ::
- Koke’e State Park
- Waimea Canyon State Park
- Ha’ena State Park
- Polihale State Park
- Nāpali Coast State Wilderness Park
17. Have a picnic
Some of our favorite foods to eat time every time we return to Kauai are from small farm stands and food trucks.
The swinging bridge in Hanapepe. Image source Hawaii Tourism Authority (HTA) / Heather Goodman
Plan for some less expensive meals and get the best views by grabbing food to go and having a picnic.
Some of our favorites include ::
- Stop at any farm or fruit stand. Cool off with a coconut after a day in the sun!
- Grab a sandwich and fresh juice from the Moloaa Sunrise Fruit Stand. They offer an abundance of plant based options.
- Puka Dog in Poipu is a must-visit. The humongous hot dogs are so fun & tasty with a variety of toppings and homemade sauces. Cross the street and enjoy yours at a picnic table at the Poipu Beach Park. (They even have a vegan version that will blow your mind!) Pro tip :: Lines get LONG here around normal meal times, opt for mid-afternoon!
18. Go mini golfing in a botanical garden
We LOVE visiting botanical gardens when we travel to tropical destinations. It’s a fun way to learn about native and invasive species, and to enjoy the beauty.
The botanical gardens on Kauai are some of our favorites in the world, and offer excellent tours – but do tend to be expensive.
During our last visit, we stumbled upon the Kauai Mini Golf and Botanical Garden and had the BEST time. At $18/person, it’s a much more affordable way to experience the beauty and education of a botanical garden, plus you’ll enjoy some friendly competition and entertainment.
Although the botanical gardens are gorgeous year round in Hawaii, the spring is when they really bloom. I put together a detailed guide on Hawaii in March – that includes everything you need to know about visiting just before bloom season kicks off.
$18/person
Kauai Mini Golf and Botanical Garden is located in Kilauea.
10am – 5pm, closed on Tuesday. Saturday hours are extended, opening at 9am.
Be sure to read the signs throughout the course – they give an AWESOME history of Kauai and the different plants and wildlife you’ll see.
19. Take a walk & support conservation efforts
The Maha’ulepu Heritage Trail in Poipu is a 2 mile trail that meanders through stunning southern beaches and lookout points. You can even visit
Makauwahi Cave.
The Kōloa Heritage Trail sign. Image source Hawaii Tourism Authority (HTA) / Tor Johnson.
The trail is great for beginners and is the perfect way to catch views while taking a mild stroll.
Visitors are asked to make a $10 donation when enjoying the trail, and the donations go to conservation efforts.
$10 cash donation.
Located on the south side of Kauai. The trail begins at Shipwreck Beach and ends at Mahaulepu Beach (you can start at either location).
The trail is open year-round.
Wear your sunscreen and bring lots of water!
👉 Looking for a scenic tour and love biking? :: I’ve heard wonderful recommendations for this Poipu and Koloa e-bike tour and can’t wait to try it next visit.
20. Catch the views at the Kilauea Lighthouse and Wildlife Refuge
Kauai’s Kilauea Lighthouse and Wildlife Refuge is full of history, incredible views and trails to walk around.
The swinging bridge in Hanapepe. Image source Hawaii Tourism Authority (HTA) / Tor Johnson
The cost is $10/person (+$1 processing fee), which gives you access to the grounds where you can hike the trails, spend time in the visitor center and view wildlife like migratory birds and even look for humpback whales.
$10/person (+$1 processing fee).
The Kilauea Lighthouse and Wildlife Refuge is located in Kilauea.
Open Wednesday – Saturday, 10am – 4pm.
Bring your binoculars! The wildlife refuge has spectacular views off of the 180 foot cliffs. It’s a wonderful place to observe humpback whales, green turtles and even spinner dolphins.
Getting Around Kauai
Kauai is a large island with lots to see and do. You’ll want the freedom to explore the island when you visit, and the easiest way to do this is to rent a car or Turo.
Uber is available in Kauai if you need assistance getting to or from your accommodations or car rental pickup. It tends to be expensive though, and isn’t always reliable.
FAQs
As a frequent Kauai visitor, I’m intimately familiar with the things that come up when planning a trip. Below are answers to some regular questions that I get asked.
Are beaches free in Kauai?
The beaches in Kauai are mostly free and open to the public!
Makua (Tunnels) Beach – my favorite place in Kauai. Image source Hawaii Tourism Authority (HTA) / Tor Johnson.
Over the last few years, Kauai did begin limiting the amount of people visiting two of its popular beach parks, Ke’e Beach and Haena State Park. The reservation system helps to protect the natural environment from overcrowding.
Reservations must be made in advance.
Is there enough to do in Kauai for a week?
There is absolutely enough to do in Kauai for a week! Kauai has an abundance of cultural experiences, beaches, rainforests, trails, historical sites, adventure activities and more – you’ll have plenty of things to fill your itinerary for a week.
Is it easy to get around Kauai without a car?
Kauai is a place that you’ll want to rent a car. Although there is some public transportation on the island, there isn’t enough of it to offer convenience.
Kauai is a big enough island with destinations spread throughout that you’ll want to have a car for your visit.
👉 We’ve had great luck renting cars out of Lihue when we visit the island.
Final Thoughts
Visiting Kauai is a dream vacation. Spending time on the island is the most incredible treat, and something that you’ll remember forever.
Sunset at Poipu Beach. Image source Hawaii Tourism Authority (HTA) / Tor Johnson.
When you visit, you’ll see that it’s a place that welcomes every kind of traveler. Even though the island can be on the expensive side, there are plenty of activities to do that are affordable.
I truly hope that this list of free and cheap things to do in Kauai comes in handy as you build your itinerary! Please feel free to email me if you have questions when you’re planning your trip – I could talk about Kauai all day! jenny[at]thekailife[dot]com
