If you are planning a holiday getaway to the eldest Hawaiian Isle– thank goodness there is no shortage of things to do in Kauai in November! November is a wonderful time to visit Kauai, as the island’s weather is typically mild, and the summer crowds have thinned, giving you a more relaxed and intimate experience with the island’s beauty. Kauai offers lush landscapes, dramatic coastlines, and a rich cultural history, making it an ideal destination for outdoor adventures, sightseeing, and relaxation. Whether you’re hiking through canyons, flying over the island’s stunning scenery, or exploring its waters, Kauai offers a variety of activities that can make your November getaway unforgettable. Here are some of the best things to do in Kauai in November.
Exploring the Island By Land
Go Hiking in the Amazing Waimea Canyon
One of Kauai’s most iconic natural landmarks, Waimea Canyon, is often referred to as the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific.” Its vast expanse of red and green cliffs, lush valleys, and striking rock formations creates a stunning backdrop for hiking. There are several trails to explore here, ranging from easy to challenging. For a shorter hike, check out the Waimea Canyon Lookout, where you can marvel at panoramic views of the canyon and its deep ravines. For more experienced hikers, the Awa’awapuhi Trail offers a rewarding trek with even more incredible views. Hiking Waimea Canyon in November means cooler weather and fewer crowds, allowing for a more peaceful experience as you immerse yourself in the island’s rugged beauty.
Walk The Stunning Na Pali Coast
The Na Pali Coast is one of the most dramatic and stunning stretches of coastline in the world, known for its steep emerald cliffs, hidden beaches, and lush valleys. One of the best ways to explore this area is by hiking the Kalalau Trail, a challenging trek that winds along the Na Pali Coast and offers sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean, waterfalls, and untouched beaches. If you’re not up for the full hike, you can still enjoy a portion of the trail, which is accessible for about two miles and offers incredible photo opportunities. The cooler November temperatures make this a perfect time for a scenic walk along the coast without the intense heat of summer.
Exploring the Island By Air
Take Flight on a Helicopter Tour of Kauai
Kauai’s dramatic landscapes—towering waterfalls, rugged coastlines, and lush valleys—are best appreciated from the air. Whether you prefer the thrill of a helicopter tour or want to charter your own private plane, Kauai’s air tours will leave you in awe. Why this is a great thing to do in November is because as the “winter” arrives the weather is generally clear and the island’s landscape is incredibly lush from recent rains– lending itself perfectly to bird’s-eye panoramic views!.
A helicopter tour is one of the most popular ways to see Kauai from a unique perspective. From the air, you’ll get sweeping views of the island’s famous spots, such as the Na Pali Coast, Waimea Canyon, and Manawaiopuna Falls(aka Jurassic Falls, famous from the movie Jurassic Park). Helicopter tours offer a rare chance to explore remote parts of Kauai that are inaccessible by foot, including the island’s hidden valleys, dramatic cliffs, and waterfalls. In November, the island’s rainforests are often lush and vibrant, making for even more spectacular aerial views.
Charter Your Own Private Plane to Island Hop
For those looking to explore more than just Kauai, chartering a private plane is an excellent option for island hopping. With a private charter, you can easily travel to nearby islands like Oahu, Maui, or the Big Island. Fly over the sparkling Pacific Ocean, taking in sweeping aerial views of the islands’ volcanic craters, lush valleys, and turquoise waters. Chartering a plane offers the flexibility to customize your itinerary, making it a perfect option for those who want to experience multiple islands in one trip, all while enjoying a more luxurious and personal travel experience. It is great for those wanting to make the most out of evert\ything they do in Kaui in November!
Exploring the Island By Sea
Surf the Large Winter Swells in Hanalei Bay
November marks the beginning of the winter surf season in Kauai, and Hanalei Bay on the north shore is one of the best places to catch the big waves. The bay’s crescent-shaped beach is a favorite among surfers, especially when the winter swells start rolling in. Hanalei’s long, sandy beach and picturesque backdrop of lush mountains create a stunning setting for surfing, whether you’re an experienced surfer looking for large waves or a beginner wanting to catch smaller swells. Even if you don’t surf, Hanalei Bay is still worth visiting for its beauty and laid-back vibe. In November, the crowds are thinner, allowing you to enjoy the bay’s stunning scenery without the peak season rush.
Go on A Whale Watching Excursion to Spot Humbacks
November is the start of whale watching season in Kauai, when the waters around the island become a migration route for humpback whales. These magnificent creatures travel thousands of miles from Alaska to breed and give birth in the warm waters off Hawaii. Whale watching excursions typically run from November to April, with the peak of the season occurring in January and February. You can embark on a boat tour to see the whales up close, where you may spot them breaching, tail-slapping, or spouting water into the air. It’s an awe-inspiring experience and one of the highlights of visiting Kauai during November.
There Is No Shortage of Things to Do in Kauai in November!
The things to do in Kauai in November offer something for every type of traveler. Whether you’re exploring the island’s rugged landscapes on foot, taking to the skies for a bird’s-eye view, or enjoying the island’s stunning coastline by sea, there’s no shortage of fun things to keep you busy. The very slightly cooler November weather provides the perfect opportunity for hiking, surfing, and sightseeing without the summer crowds. Plus, the start of whale watching season and the island’s lush, green landscapes make this time of year particularly special. Kauai’s natural beauty and variety of outdoor activities make it an ideal destination for an unforgettable November getaway.