Exploring Kauai: Farmers Markets, Canyon Views & the Nā Pali Coas

March 19–21, 2025

After an incredible time on Maui, we hopped over to Kauai for the next leg of our Hawaiian adventure. From farmers markets to hiking Waimea Canyon and cruising the legendary Nā Pali Coast, these first few days were filled with laid-back island charm and epic scenery. Here's a recap of what we explored!

Wednesday, March 19 – Arrival & Local Finds

We had a smooth flight from Maui with Hawaiian Airlines, but things got a bit rocky with the rental car. We called ahead to secure a minivan for our group… only to find out none were available. We ended up with a Mazda CX-90, which was technically large but a tight squeeze. One person even had to ride between the seats—not ideal, but we made it work.

After landing in Lihue, we grabbed a bite at Kauai Diner—an okay spot for a quick meal before diving into the essentials: a grocery run at Safeway and a visit to the Kukui‘ula Farmers Market. This market was a highlight!

• We found the woman who used to make pot pies at the market—she now has her own place!

• Picked up two macadamia nut sticky buns (unreal).

• Enjoyed $8 mango mai tais from a local vendor (yes, please 🍹).

• Also stocked up on a sugarloaf pineapple (the sweetest white pineapple!) and some fresh papaya and green beans.

Pro tip: Have them cut your pineapple for you—it’s vacation, after all.

Thursday, March 20 – Poolside + Low-Key Adventures

This was a slower-paced day to catch our breath. We soaked up the sun by the Airbnb pool and relaxed in the morning before heading out to explore nearby.

We stopped at Spouting Horn, a natural lava tube blowhole that shoots water high into the air with a hiss and rumble—always a fun and easy roadside stop.

For happy hour, we tried Keoki’s Paradise, but once we realized it didn’t have a happy hour menu (and was a bit on the boujee side), we detoured to Isola Cucina, just across the way. Great move! We shared a cheese & bread plate, bruschetta, and a couple of mai tais. Okay, maybe more than a couple—you can guess who ordered extras 😉.

We ended the evening with a local hula performance in the square next to the restaurant and explored some nearby shops. Then it was off to Koloa for ice cream (a must!) and a little more browsing before winding down with dinner back at the Airbnb—leftovers never tasted so good after a full day out.

Friday, March 21 – Canyon Hikes & Coastal Cruising

Today was all about adventure. We set out for Waimea Canyon, often called the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific,” and wow—it lived up to the name.

We started at the Waimea Canyon Overlook, then parked at the Puu Hinahina Lookout to hike the Canyon Trail and the Waipo’o Falls Trail. The views were stunning, especially with the lush greens and dramatic drops of the canyon. Kris and I stopped at the final overlook with Zoey while Abby and Clayton hiked the extra stretch to get closer to the falls.

On the return, we took our time and paused partway for a quick Zoey snack break before making our way back. Such a rewarding hike, and surprisingly manageable with a baby in tow!

We tried to drive out to the Pihea Trail (a top spot to catch views of the Nā Pali Coast), but the road was closed past Kalalau Lookout. Abby and Clayton walked out to the lookout anyway, but it was totally clouded in. Typical Kauai weather!

Dinner that night was at Kauai Island Brewing Company in Port Allen, where the food hit the spot and the service was even better. Our waitress was amazing with Zoey and even gave us great tips—Salt Pond and Baby Beach are perfect spots to take a little one!

To top it all off, Abby and Clayton ended the day with a Makana sunset cruise along the Nā Pali Coast. Imagine dramatic cliffs, sea caves, and the golden glow of a Hawaiian sunset—definitely a bucket-list moment.

🌺 Tips for Visiting Kauai

If you’re planning a trip to Kauai, here are a few travel-friendly tips to help you make the most of your time:

🚗 Rental Car Advice

• Reserve early, and call to confirm if you need a specific vehicle like a minivan. Inventory can be limited, especially for families or groups.

• A midsize SUV is a great compromise between space and handling Kauai’s winding roads.

🥭 Where to Shop & Snack

• Don’t miss the Kukui‘ula Farmers Market (Wednesdays). It’s perfect for picking up fresh local fruit, baked goods, and even handmade cocktails!

• Sugarloaf pineapple is a sweet, low-acid variety unique to Hawaii—try it if you spot it.

🥾 Hiking Essentials

• For Waimea Canyon, wear sturdy shoes and bring plenty of water—even shorter trails can feel longer in the sun.

• Start early in the day to avoid crowds and afternoon clouds (which can obscure scenic lookouts).

• Pihea Trail and Kalalau Lookout offer stunning Nā Pali Coast views—but always check road conditions ahead of time.

🧘 Relaxing with Little Ones

• Traveling with kids? Salt Pond Beach Park and Baby Beach are calm, family-friendly alternatives to Kauai’s more rugged shorelines.

• Many restaurants are very accommodating with children, especially around Poipu and Koloa.

🌅 Best Way to See the Nā Pali Coast

• A sunset catamaran cruise like the one from Makana Charters offers unbeatable views of the cliffs, waterfalls, and sea caves.

• Motion sickness-prone? Consider taking Dramamine or opting for an early morning cruise when the waters are calmer.

✈️ Final Thoughts

Kauai is a mix of wild beauty and slow, local charm. From sticky buns and mango mai tais to canyon hikes and coast cruises, there’s something unforgettable around every corner. Whether you’re traveling as a couple, family, or group, it’s the perfect place to relax and explore.

More from our Kauai trip coming soon—including beach days, shave ice stops, and secret scenic spots!