As you guys know, I recently traveled to Kauai and stayed at the beautiful St. Regis Princeville Resort. We had such an amazing time exploring and discovering Kauai for the first time, so we did a lot of research beforehand on things to do. But one of the best ways to get to know a new place is by asking the locals, and ask we certainly did haha. So today I thought I might share with you some of our favorite things to do on Kauai.

THINGS TO DO IN KAUAI:

Queen's Bath:
Hidden within Princeville on the North Shore, a short drive from the St. Regis lies a unique tide pool surrounded by indigenous black rock (pictured in these images) known as Queen's Bath. This area is accessible via a slippery and muddy hike down so beware, especially if it has rained lately. Ben and I had to take off our sandals and be ok with getting ourselves (and our clothes) completely muddy. You have to take it really slow so as not to slide on your butt haha. But if you're able, the beautiful views are totally worth it! Also, I'd recommend going early in the morning. You don't want to be stuck down there after the sun goes down or when the tide is high. So if you go, just be careful!

Hike to Hanakapiai Falls:
While we weren't able to hike this beautiful trail during our stay, we heard it is just gorgeous! It's eight miles round-trip (two miles to Hanakapia'i Beach plus two more up the valley to the Falls and back). It's very remote and secluded, so be sure to bring water!

Hanalei River:
This gorgeous river is approximately five minutes from the St. Regis Princeville and its calm waters and scenic mountain and water views are perfect for paddling down. You can easily rent a paddle board in Hanalei Town and spend your afternoon floating in the sun.

Wai Pa Farmers Market:
Every Tuesday at 2pm you can shop local vendors offering lush fresh flowers, organic fruits and veggies and fun crafts at Wai Pa Farmers Market. I definitely recommend stopping by and getting a frozen chocolate covered banana and some local tropical flowers to brighten your day!

Bike The Royal Coconut Coast:
One of my favorite things that Ben and I did while visiting Kauai was rent beach cruisers and ride North along the oceanfront Coconut Coast. We rented ours from Hele On in Old Kapaa Town. After you've had you're fair share of the ocean breeze and views, head to Java Kai for the best coffee in town (and shop their sister boutique next door, Shipwrecked Boutique, or grab a juice from Kauai Juice Co. around back. If you're looking for some good ol' fashioned BBQ, check out Chicken in a Barrel down the road.

Wailua Falls:
Located near Lihue at the end of a beautiful winding road lies Wailua Falls, a 173-foot waterfall. You can view this beauty from the top, so no hiking necessary. But if you wish, there are paths that lead to the bottom but they can be muddy and slippery, so be prepared.

Waimea Canyon:
Known as the "Grand Canyon" of Kauai, this geological wonder stretches over fourteen miles long. You can drive through on the main road, Waimea Canyon Road to several lookout points which offer beautiful dramatic views of the canyon and Waipoo Falls in the distance. The road continues into the mountains and ends at Kokee State Park. There are several trails you can traverse as well, from those for beginners to those for more seasoned hikers.

Spouting Horn Blowhole:
If you head to the South Shore, be sure to check out Spouting Horn Blowhole. It's a beautiful spot to watch the sun set and is great for watching for humpback whales from December to May.

If you are looking for beaches to visit, you should check out my post here on my top five favorite beaches in Kauai.