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Kauai Family Vacation
Kauai is a wonderful place to take a family on vacation. First
of all, everyone loves the Islands of Hawaii - and parents and kids
of all ages love the beach! And luckily for you, Kauai has
literally dozens of beaches that offer the best in sunbathing,
swimming (to include calm waters for the young ones), snorkeling,
and just plain relaxing. Beyond the beaches, there are so many
great activities and attractions that are sure to entertain anyone
in your family.
Lydgate Beach
 Check
out our Kauai Beach Guide for a detailed run-down of the best
beaches on the island as well as photos and maps to help you plan
your beach outings. The best family-friendly beach on the
island is Lydgate Beach Park in the town of Kapa'a, on the east
shore. Typically calm and clear, Lydgate Beach has several
man-made rock walls that form a barrier to the oceans waves.
The sheltered pools are a favorite for young swimmers and beginning
snorkelers. Shady trees and grassy areas also make for an ideal
picnic spot. Additionally there are picnic pavilions with
tables, bike paths and plenty of public parking. Facilities include
bathrooms and showers. Lydgate is baby stroller accessible.
View map.
Ke'e Beach
 Another very popular beach is Ke'e Beach in the northwestern corner
of the island (in fact, it's at the very end of Route 560).
Ke'e boasts white sand with a ring of shady trees. There are
no facilities to mention other than several port-a-potties in the
parking lot. But, what Ke'e is famous for is a large shallow
reef that provides a relatively protected swimming area and a great
opportunity for snorkeling. Amateur and advanced snorkelers
alike will enjoy Ke'e. This is a very popular beach and
parking is very tight (the lot is small and road narrow) - so come
early, or park some distance away and walk.
View Map.
Kamalani Playground
 Immediately
adjacent Lydgate Beach is the Kamalani Playground. This
elaborate playground was a community project, built by the parents
and used by the children of Kaua'i. There are mazes, special slides,
swings and much more. Parents can relax in the beautifully
landscaped Japanese garden while their children play. More than
7,000 people helped to create this playground in 1994. In addition
to the playground equipment and structures, Kamalani features a lot
of artwork created by the local kids when the park was built.
Admission is free.
View map.
Na Pali Coast and Waimea Canyon
 Grade-school kids all the way through adolescents will be captivated
by the sights of the Na Pali Coast and Waimea Canyon. This
adventure starts with a drive to the southwestern part of Kauai.
From the town of Waimea, take Route 550 (Waimea Canyon Drive).
This road winds its way up to a an eventual altitude of 4,ooo feet
offering sweeping views of the southern coast behind you and the
geological marvel Waimea Canyon to your right. Ultimately, the
road ends many miles further at the incredible Pu'u o Kila
Lookout with fantastic views of Kalalau Valley and the Na Pali
Coast. Along the road are many scenic overlooks, the large
Waimea Canyon Lookout with observation platform and bathrooms, and
many hiking trails (from very short walks to demanding
all-day-affairs). You could spend several days exploring all
this area has to offer.
Activities
For older kids or very active families, consider engaging in some of
Kauai's many activities. Some can be participated in by
yourselves like snorkeling or hiking. Others will require
renting equipment or joining a group guided tour such as kayaking.
Kayaking is very popular in Kauai. The most famous (and
challenging) Kayak trip is the expedition-like voyage from Ke'e,
paralleling the Na Pali Coast, all the way to Polihale Beach in the
southwest - 13 miles of kayaking will offer you some of the tastiest
and inaccessible views the island has to offer. Other kayak
trips for the more tame at heart include kayaking up one of Kauai's
many rivers such as the Wailua River (most popular), Hanalei River,
Huleia River, and Kalihiwai River (shortest trip). Most of
Kauai's adventures can be classified as Eco-Tours - that is,
environmentally friendly outdoor adventures that are fun for the
whole family. Check out the best Kauai
family-friendly activities.
Secret Falls Hike and Paddle
 Discover Jungle Falls – Kayak, Hike & Swim: This exclusive one-way
paddle brings you into the Hule'ia National Wildlife Refuge, home to
many of Hawaii's native wetland birds and plants. At the trailhead,
you'll take a 10-minute hike through a tropical forest. Your
first stop will be at the lower falls to cool off and take photos
before reaching the awesome 50-foot Jungle Falls. This is where you
can swim beneath the cascading falls, laugh, have fun and enjoy your
own private paradise.
Blue Lagoon Kayak Adventure
 Take a guided kayak and snorkeling tour along the scenic Hanalei
River and Bay Reef Lagoon! Bird and turtle watch on the
beautiful white sand beach, snorkel the beautiful waters and enjoy
views of colorful reef fish, or paddle out in a surf kayak and surf
the gentle waves of the bay – perfect adventure for all ages!
Na Pali Explorer Ocean Rafting
 Explore
exquisite valleys, waterfalls, and secluded beaches and enter the
spectacular sea caves (weather permitting) of the Na Pali Coastline.
Dolphins and sea turtles are frequent companions during this
expedition. Land at *Nu'alolo Kai, an otherwise inaccessible
beach for a hike to the ruins of an ancient Hawaiian fishing
village. Here, enjoy a refreshing swim and snorkel on the
protected reef where crystal waters teem with fish, coral
formations, sea turtles and other marine life.
Na Pali Coast Tour & Niihau
 Na
Pali Coast is a "must see" on Kauai. This fifteen-mile stretch of
rugged coastline on the northwest shore of Kaua'i is an
awe-inspiring sight from the sea. After sightseeing and hearing the
history of the Na Pali Coast, you will head across the channel to
the Ni'ihau. Ni'ihau is called the 'Forbidden Isle' because
only those of true Hawaiian ancestry may live there. Visiting this
part of the island chain is a very special experience. Relax, float
and watch the comings and goings of the aquatic world. You may even
see one of the curious Hawaiian Monk Seals that inhabit these
waters. After snorkeling, enjoy a delicious lunch
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