How long does it take to drive around the island of Kauai?


How long does it take to drive around the island of Kauai? Seeing the whole island of Kauai in a day may sound like a lot, but it can indeed be done! Driving around the entire island takes around 2 hours, not including pit stops! If you want to make the most of your drive, the best way is to map out a few points you would like to explore along the route.


Is it better to go to Maui or Kauai?

If you're ready to trade the hustle and bustle for variety and adventure in your life, Maui probably sounds like the perfect escape. If you're looking for something quieter and family-friendly, with plenty of outdoor activities and natural beauty, Kauai is the ideal island paradise.


What are the cons of Kauai?

Kauai, like the other Hawaiian islands, is prone to extreme weather, including hurricanes and torrential rain, which can cause flooding and other disasters. This can disrupt daily life, cause property damage, and make it more challenging to maintain a home.


How easy is it to drive around Kauai?

The northwestern shore of the island, about a quarter of its coastline, is not accessible by vehicle due to the cliffs of the Na Pali Coast. This means that you cannot drive the whole way around the island of Kauai. That said, you can reach its towns and cities via a few Kauai main roads.


How many miles is it to drive around the island of Kauai?

While our island is almost circular, (approximately 25 miles wide and 33 miles long) the Napali coastline prohibits construction of roads from the north shore to the west side, so driving times from one end of the island (Ke'e Beach on the northshore) to the west side (Polihale Beach) will take roughly 2 hours 50 ...


Which is more expensive Maui or Kauai?

Maui is more expensive than Kauai by a decent margin. So your dollar will stretch further on a vacation to Kauai. Usually, the largest vacation expense is going to be your accommodations. According to data from the Hawaii Tourism Authority, Maui has the most expensive average hotel room cost.


What side of Kauai has the best beaches?

Kauai South Shore You'll find tons of incredible beaches, mouthwatering Hawaiian cuisine, stunning wildlife, and exciting shopping opportunities. Whether you are interested in outdoor sports, arts and cultural activities, or simply getting to know the locals, you can really find it all on the South Shore of Kauai.


What is the least touristy part of Kauai?

The West Side of the island, the leeward coast of Kauai, is drier and the mountains in the center of the island block the rest of Kauai from the rain. This is one of the least visited parts of the island, excluding the sights along Highway 550 (like Waimea Canyon and Kokee State Park).


Can you drive completely around Kauai?

The island is circular in shape, with one main road connecting the North Shore and West Side of the island. You cannot drive completely around the island, the rugged and beautiful Na Pali Coast makes that impossible. Drive through quaint coastal towns and rural upcountry neighborhoods while exploring Kauai.


Is 7 days in Kauai too much?

Personally, I feel that Kauai deserves your undivided vacation attention, and even a full devoted week in Kauai will still feel too short. For your 7 day Kauai itinerary, you definitely have time to move around and explore different areas for all the best things to do in Kauai.


How much of Kauai is accessible by car?

Only around 10% of Kauai is accessible by car, and a large proportion is not accessible by foot at all. This means that some of Kauai's most incredible sights must be seen on foot, by boat and from the air!


What is hurricane season in Kauai?

Hawaii's hurricane season runs from June 1 to Nov. 30.


How long does it take to drive to the other side of Kauai?

With so many places to go, you will want to have the freedom of spending as much time exploring as you like. A trip from the north to the south of Kauai spans 119 miles, which should entail about 4 hours of driving.


How long does it take to drive the perimeter of Kauai?

While our island is almost circular, (approximately 25 miles wide and 33 miles long) the Napali coastline prohibits construction of roads from the north shore to the west side, so driving times from one end of the island (Ke'e Beach on the northshore) to the west side (Polihale Beach) will take roughly 2 hours 50 ...


What is Kauai best known for?

Why Kauai, you ask? Well, let's start with the fact that it's known as the “Garden Island,” thanks to its lush greenery and vibrant flowers. But that's not all! Kauai is also famous for its stunning natural attractions, from the majestic Waimea Canyon to the awe-inspiring Napali Coast.


What is the best part about the island of Kauai?

While the entire island of Kauai has incredible waters, the North Shore takes the top prize. The famous Hanalei Bay is located here and draws tons of visitors to surf, swim, or snorkel in the turquoise waves. You can also take advantage of the incredible jungles and breathtaking waterfalls for a true trip to paradise.


What is the prettiest area of Kauai?

Kauai's West Shore The West Shore of Kauai is often underrated, but it's one of the most beautiful places on Earth, in our humble opinion. The West Shore is separated from the north by the Napali Coast, which gives the west a distinct desert-like feel.


Do you really need a car in Kauai?

In short, the answer to whether you need a rental car in Kauai is yes! The areas of population on the island are geographically distant from each other, so unless you're planning on staying in the same place for your entire vacation, you'll need a car to travel from town to town.


What is the famous road in Kauai?

Another famous location of Kauai, the Tree Tunnel Road is another amazing sight to see. The road is covered with tons of eucalyptus trees surrounding both sides of the road and over the road. Beginning off the side of Highway 520, this drive sets the perfect scene for a drive into Kauai's south shore region.


Can you swim in Kauai year round?

With an average ocean temperature of 77F – 83F, Kauai's water temperature is also perfect for swimming year-round! While some beaches can get pretty crowded, you can easily enjoy a peaceful snorkeling session or find a secluded spot with miles of shoreline to settle on.


What is the best month to go to Kauai?

The best time of year to visit Kauai is during off-peak seasons, between September and December or between April and June. During these times you can avoid the crowds and enjoy lower prices on accommodations and excursions. Either way, be sure to book everything far in advance!


Is it expensive in Kauai?

Its stunning natural beauty, pristine beaches, and lush landscapes make it an ideal location for those seeking a high-end vacation experience. However, this luxury comes at a price, and Kauai's reputation as an expensive destination is largely due to its thriving luxury tourism market.


How many days is enough in Kauai?

For a well-rounded experience, spending at least 5-7 days on Kauai is recommended. This allows enough time to explore the island's diverse attractions and participate in various activities while having some downtime for relaxation. If you're short on time, 4-5 days will allow you to see most of the island.


When not to go to Kauai?

Bear in mind that June is also the start of the Kauai hurricane season, which lasts until around November. Chances of severe tropical storms aren't particularly high, but it's still worth considering when booking your trip.


What is the cheapest month to visit Kauai?

The best time of year to visit Kauai is during off-peak seasons, between September and December or between April and June. During these times you can avoid the crowds and enjoy lower prices on accommodations and excursions.