The island of Kauai may be small, but it has a lot packed into it. Quieter and more laid back, this island offers some prime relaxation, some great natural beauty, and a variety of unique spots to eat.

Divided into 3 areas with a ring road, you'll likely find yourself based in the north (ranier), east (windier) or south (sunnier). I've broken these spots into those 3 sections. 

Kauai for first timers

Edged by the famed Na Pali Coast, basing yourself in the north might mean more rain, but plenty to do in Princeville and Hanalei. Even a short hike on the Kalalauu Trail on the Na Pali coast will be amazing with views down the sheer cliffs (if you can make it to the first beach, bonus!). Take a boat ride and explore the ridges from the water--and also, do the helicopter tour. It's worth it! You'll visit great spots on the island including places where Jurassic Park were filmed. The winding, single-lane roads to Hanalei are quaint, so don't be in a rush to get there.

The sunnier south side is definitely the spot for beach time. Poipu is a great spot to stay, enjoy some great meals, and relax in the sunshine. Heading further west, check out Waimea Canyon (Kauai's answer to the Grand Canyon) and a hike to see the Na Pali Coast from the west side. Wear sturdy shoes with good grip--it's a steep drop on the Awa'awapuhi Trail. Get there early to have a less crowded hike.

Lihue is where you'll fly in to, and there's a variety of  spots to grab a bite and explore. Take a kayak trip into the central hills, a helecopter ride to explore the island, and grab fresh fruit and shave ice on the garden part of the island.

The Westin Princeville Ocean Resort Villas

Hanalei Bay Resort

Sheraton Kauai Coconut Beach Resort

Marriott's Kaua'i Beach Club

The Royal Sonesta Kaua'i Resort Lihue

Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort & Spa

Sheraton Kauai Resort

Kiahuna Plantation Resort Kauai by Outrigger

Nā Pali Coast State Wilderness Park

Hanalei Beach

Hanalei Farmers Market

Bar Acuda

Hanalei Bread Company

Wake Up Delicious (Home Of Trucking Delicious)

Queen’s Bath

Hideaway Beach

Tahiti Nui

Rainbow Shave Ice Princeville

Kalihiwai Beach

Kauapea (Secret) Beach Trail Head

808 Grill

Moloaa Sunrise Fruit Stand

Kaua'i Sugarloaf Pineapple Farm

Kalalea Mountain

Anahola Beach

Sam's Ocean View Restaurant Kapaa Kauai

Wailua Shave Ice

JO2 Natural Cuisine

Passion Bakery Cafe

Ali'i Kayaks

Wailua River State Park

'Opaeka'a Falls

Blue Hawaiian Helicopters

Kalapaki Beach

Aloha Aina Juice Cafe

Kountry Kitchen

Tree Tunnel

Poipu Beach

Sueoka Store

Koloa Fish Market

Maha'ulepu Heritage Trail

Dark Horse Coffee Roasters

Eating House 1849 Koloa

Merriman's Kauai

Da Crack Mexican Grinds

The Fresh Shave

Kiawe Roots

Hanapepe Valley Lookout

Warehouse 3540

Waimea Canyon State Park

Awa'awapuhi Trailhead

Kalalau Lookout