Welcome to Kauai, Hawaii – a lush paradise that boasts some of the most breathtaking natural beauty in the world. Known as the Garden Island, Kauai offers many hiking trails that wind through verdant rain forests, along rugged coastlines, and up towering mountains. If you’re an adventurous spirit looking for an unforgettable experience, you’re in the right place. In this Kauai hiking guide, we’ll take you through some of the island’s best trails, from leisurely strolls to challenging treks. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a novice, we’ve got something for everyone. So grab your backpack and get ready to explore the stunning landscapes of Kauai on foot.Find Kauai Hiking Trails, maps and directions. Kauai is a small volcanic island with an abundance of natural wonders just waiting for you to to explore.  Kauai Hiking Tips

Awawawapuhi Hike Kauai

Awaawapuhi Nualolo Trail

West Side, Kokee State Park
Waipoo Falls Waimea
Hiking Hanakapiai

Hanakapiai Trail

Na Pali State Park, North Shore

Kalalau Trail

Na Pali Coast Park, North Shore

Kuilau Ridge Trail

Keahua Arboretum, East Side
Waimea Canyon

Kukui Trail

Waimea Canyon, West Side
Mahaulepu Heritage Trail

Mahaulepu Beach Trail

Poipu, South Shore
Moalepe Trail Olohena

Moalepe Trail

Keahua Arboretum, East Side
Hanalei Bay From Okolehao Tra

Okolehao Trail

Hanalei Valley, North Shore
Waialeale Wettest Spot on Earth

Pihea Trail

Kokee State Park, West Side

Sleeping Giant – Nounou Trail East

Wailua Houselots, East Side
kauai.com

Sleeping Giant Trail

Wailua Homesteads, East Side

Hike the rain forest of Kokee, the bogs of the Alakai swamp, and the hanging valleys of the Napali Coast. Kauai hiking trails offer hundreds of trail choices for every level of experience. Hike Kauai Trails and connect with nature. It won’t take long to realize that Kauai is a hiker’s paradise waiting to be explored. Hiking on Kauai allows you to explore areas that are inaccessible by car and allows you to experience a tranquil and peaceful part of our natural environment.

There are hundreds of hiking trails on Kauai with every level of difficulty. Explore flora and fauna unique to this Pacific Island and the many varieties of native plants and animals that make Kauai forest and valleys their home.

Kauai’s hiking trails are an essential part of Hawaiian culture and history. As you hike along some of Kauai’s historical trails, you will find yourself amongst historical and archeological sites. Preserving and respecting these areas and staying safe while exploring are essential.

KAUAI THINGS TO DO

Kauai Hiking Tips

Hiking on Kauai gives you an opportunity to explore areas that are inaccessible by car and allows you to experience a tranquil and peaceful part of our natural environment. There are hundreds of hiking trails on Kauai with every level of difficulty. Explore flora and fauna unique to this Pacific Island and the many varieties of native plants and animals that make Kauai forest and valleys their home.

  • Respect the Land – Kauai’s hiking trails are an important part of Hawaiian culture and history.  As you hike along some of Kauai’s historical trails you will find yourself amongst historic and archeological sites. It is important to preserve and respect these areas as well as stay safe while exploring.  Heading into Kauai’s interior and remote terrain offers domes of the most beautiful backdrops in the world. By doing a little planning and being prepared you will make your hiking trip one of your best Kauai experiences.
  • Hiking Plan  –Always tell someone where you are hiking (name and location of trail) you plan to hike and when you plan on returning. It is best to take a partner and be informed about the trail that you pick and study the route before you set off.
  • Water – When hiking it is important to stay hydrated. Do not wait until you start feeling thirsty to start replacing lost fluid. By the time you are thirsty, you are already dehydrated! Your body can absorb only about one quart of fluid per hour. Drink one-half to one full quart of water or sports drink each and every hour you are hiking in the heat. Carry your water bottle in your hand and drink small amounts often. Make sure if you are drinking water from any streams or fresh water sources you purify your water with a purifier that is certified to filter microbial leptospirosis or giardia (not all do).
  • Food Eating is equally important to both day hikers and overnight backpackers. Carry high-energy, salty snacks as well as meals. The hike out is much easier when you provide your body with enough calories to support the extreme physical activity you are engaged in.
  • Check Weather Check the weather before you set off on your hike.  Kauai Weather Forecast
  • First Aid It is important to know that cuts in tropical climates should be monitored closely. Do not expose open wounds or cuts to river water. Open cuts are highly susceptible to infection that can set in rapidly (one of the most dangerous infections being leptospirosis and one of the most common being staphylococcus or “staph”). It is important not to let an infected wound go untreated.
  • Proper Footwear There are a variety of footwear options to choose from. The best advice is to wear what is comfortable for you. Do not break in new shoes along a hiking trail.
  • Clothing Wear Proper Clothing – Dress in layers so you can protect your skin from the tropical sun. Wearing a hat, sunglasses and sunscreen is recommended. It is always a good idea to have a light rain jacket. Kauai weather changes quickly.