There are so many fun things to do in Kauai for families! Kauai, also known as the Garden Isle, is a perfect destination for families seeking both adventure and relaxation. With its lush landscapes, stunning beaches, and a plethora of activities, there’s something for everyone in the family to enjoy. From thrilling helicopter tours all over the island to serene beach days, Kauai offers a unique blend of excitement and tranquility that can create unforgettable family memories. Here’s our comprehensive guide to the most fun things to do in Kauai for families!
See The Entire Island With Your Family on a Kauai Helicopter Tour
A Kauai helicopter tour is one of the most exhilarating ways to see the entirety of the eldest island. This experience offers breathtaking aerial views of the island’s diverse landscapes, from the dramatic cliffs of the Na Pali Coast to the lush valleys and waterfalls of Waimea Canyon. For families, this can be an educational adventure, providing a unique perspective that ground tours simply cannot offer– in fact the majority of Kauai is completely inaccessible by any other modality.
As you soar above Kauai, knowledgeable local pilots narrate the journey, sharing fascinating insights about the island’s history, geology, and culture. This can be a wonderful learning opportunity for children and parents alike, as well as a fun family thing to do.
Seek Out Fun Things To Do for Families at Your Kauai Resort
Many Kauai resorts are designed with families in mind, offering a wide range of things to do aimed to keep everyone entertained without having to leave the property. From swimming pools with water slides to organized kids’ clubs, there’s no shortage of fun things to do right at your resort. Family-friendly resorts often provide daily schedules of activities that may include everything from hula lessons and lei-making classes to beach volleyball and guided nature walks. These Kauai things to do for families, not only entertain but also give children a chance to learn about Hawaiian culture and the island’s natural environment.
Many resorts also have on-site rental services for beach gear, bicycles, and even snorkel equipment, making it easy for families to explore the nearby beaches teeming with Kauai’s marine life.
Go For a Fun and Safe Airplane Tour of Kauai and Niihau With Your Family
For families who might prefer a slightly less intense experience than a Kauai helicopter ride, an airplane tour of the island can be a fantastic alternative. These tours offer stunning views of Kauai and some even include a fly by of the neighboring island of Niihau, also known as the Forbidden Isle.
Kauai Airplane tours are generally more stable and less likely to induce motion sickness, making them a great option for younger children or family members who are sensitive to motion. The planes typically have large windows, ensuring everyone has a good view of the incredible scenery below. During an airplane tour, you can expect to see many of the same highlights as a helicopter tour, including the Na Pali Coast and Waimea Canyon. The added bonus, when booking with a local company like Ali’i Air Tours, is flying over Niihau, an island that is privately owned and rarely seen by tourists.
This type of tour is perfect for families in Kauai who want to experience the beauty of the island from above without the intensity of a doors on or off helicopter ride. It’s a safe, enjoyable, and informative way to see the island and explore Niihau on an air tour.
Our Favorite FREE Fun Things To Do in Kauai For Families
Kauai offers plenty of free activities that are perfect things to do for families, making it easy to have a fun-filled vacation without breaking the bank. Two of our favorite free activities are going on a hike and spending a day at the beach.
Hiking in Kauai
Kauai is a hiker’s paradise, with trails that cater to all levels of experience and fitness. One of the most family-friendly hikes is the Maha’ulepu Heritage Trail, which offers relatively easy terrain and stunning coastal views. This trail winds along the southern shore, providing opportunities to see sea cliffs, sand dunes, and even ancient Hawaiian cultural sites. Another great option is the Kuilau Ridge Trail, which takes you through lush rainforests and offers breathtaking vistas of the island’s interior.
Spending Beach Days in Kauai
Spending a day at one of Kauai’s beautiful beaches is a must. Poipu Beach, located on the sunny south shore, is perfect for families with its calm waters and picnic facilities. The beach is also known for its resident Hawaiian monk seals, which can often be seen lounging on the sand.
Another excellent family beach is Lydgate Beach Park on the east side of the island. This beach has a protected swimming area, making it safe for young children. The park also features a large playground, picnic tables, and restrooms, making it an ideal spot for a full day of fun.
Both hiking and beach days provide endless opportunities for families to connect with nature, enjoy the island’s beauty, and spend quality time together without spending a dime. We have written extensively about what some great land and water activities are, in our guide about the best things to do in Kauai (with or without children).
Keep It In The Family With a Private Kauai Air Charter
For families seeking a more personalized and intimate thing to do in Kauai, a private air charter is an exceptional choice. Private Kauai air charters allow you to customize your flight itinerary, ensuring you see the sights that are most important to your family. Whether it’s a specific landmark, a secluded beach, or a particular part of the island, a private charter can cater to your preferences.
These charters offer a level of flexibility and exclusivity that scheduled tours cannot match. You can choose the flight time that suits your family’s schedule, and you’ll have the undivided attention of your pilot, who can provide in-depth commentary and answer all your questions. A private air charter is also a great way to celebrate a special occasion, such as a birthday or anniversary, in a truly unique and memorable way. The experience of flying over Kauai’s stunning landscapes with just your family and the pilot can create cherished memories that will last a lifetime. It is truly one of the most fun things to do in Kauai for families
Kauai is a treasure trove of fun things to do for families that also cater to a wide range of interests and ages. From thrilling helicopter and airplane tours that offer breathtaking views of the island’s natural wonders to free activities like hiking and beach days that allow for quality family time, there’s no shortage of things to do.
Whether you’re staying at a resort with a plethora of amenities or seeking out unique experiences like a private air charter, Kauai provides endless opportunities for families to explore, learn, and bond.
