North Shore Kauai Tour

Kalalea Mountain, Kauai Rock Climbing - Before exploring the stunning beaches on this tour, make a stop to admire the Kalalea Mountain Range.

Moloa’a Beach - Remember the 1963 show Gilligan’s Island? This charming beach was the filming location for the first season!

Enjoy a walk on the beach where Gilligan and his crew began their adventures.

Kāhili Beach - Also known as Rock Quarry Beach due to a former quarry nearby, this secluded rural beach offers natural beauty without facilities.

If time permits, wade through the stream if it’s low and explore the far left side of the beach. There’s a large rock to climb for a spectacular view of the bay.

Kilauea Point National Wildlife Refuge - Situated at the end of a scenic peninsula, this refuge is home to a variety of local seabirds. Depending on the season, thousands of birds can be seen on the cliffs or in the sky. In the waters below, watch for spinner dolphins and monk seals in their natural environment.

Kauapea (Secret) Beach Trail Head - Enjoy a short, 15-minute hike to a secluded white sand beach. Why is it called a secret?

Previously unknown, it was a popular nudist beach for hippies. Now, it’s known as Kauapea and celebrated for its stunning beauty.

Anini Beach - Get ready to snorkel! Anini Beach features the largest coral reef in Hawai’i and is one of the top snorkeling spots in Kaua’i.

Hanalei Valley Lookout - As you drive to Hanalei, you’ll see a shopping center for Princeville on your right and a scenic viewpoint on your left.

Stop for a breathtaking view of Hanalei Valley with taro fields below and lush mountains in the background.

Okolehao Trail - The Okolehau Hike is a challenging 5-mile trek with significant elevation gain.

For a quick walk, hike the first half mile to an electric pole for an overlook of the Hanalei Valley.

Hanalei - Hanalei is a charming seaside town with a famous pier, restaurants, and shopping.

It’s a great spot to grab lunch or pick up picnic supplies for a meal on the pier.

Kahalahala Beach - Just past Hanalei is Kahalahala Beach. The trail leads through a forested area to a pristine beach.

This is where Nellie Forebrush sang “I’m Gonna Wash That Man Right Outta My Hair” in South Pacific.

Lumaha’i Beach - This expansive, white sand beach is one of Kauai’s most beautiful. However, the steep sand slope creates a strong undertow and powerful waves.

Tunnels Beach - Tunnels is ideal for snorkeling and diving, with underwater lava tubes and abundant sea life.

It’s consistently ranked as one of the best snorkeling spots on the island.

Haena Beach Park - Strong currents make Ha’ena Beach unsuitable for casual swimming, but surfers often enjoy the waves.

Wet and Dry Caves, Kauai - Visit Maniniholo, a cave that is the remains of an old lava tube, showcasing Kauai’s volcanic history.

Limahuli Garden and Preserve - If hiking isn’t appealing, consider a stroll in the Limahuli Botanical Garden next to Ha’ena State Park.

The garden features endangered plants and native Hawaiian flora and fauna.

Ha’ena State Park - Located at the end of the road, this popular state park features Ke’e Beach and the Kalalau Trail, one of Hawai’i’s most ambitious hikes. The 11-mile trail follows the steep cliffs of the Na Pali Coast.

Hanalei - Begin the return to Kapa’a with two stops. First, revisit Hanalei to see the historic pier.

Hanalei Pier - Dating back to the late 1800s, this picturesque pier extends into Hanalei Bay and has appeared in films like Beachheads, South Pacific, and The Descendants.

Aloha Ola Farms – Farmstand @ Anaina Hou Community Park - This farm-to-table stand offers tropical smoothies, fresh juices, and frozen treats, along with a variety of local fruits and vegetables.

Kapaʻa - After a refreshing treat, head back to Kapa’a.

On the return drive, hear stories about King Kamehameha and his attempts to invade Kaua’i.

Wailua Valley & Waterfalls Tour

Wailua Falls - Wailua Falls is a stunning 173-foot waterfall surrounded by jungle forest.

It’s a quick photo opportunity as there’s no hiking to the falls.

It’s one of the island’s most impressive falls, so be sure to stop.

Lydgate Beach Park - Lydgate Park is a fun place for kids of all ages. Little ones will love the Kamalani playground.

There are also rock-enclosed pools for safe and enjoyable swimming.

The pools allow reef fish to come and go freely.

Holoholoku Heiau - An ancient Hawaiian temple in Wailua River State Park, Holoholokū Heiau was a sacred site for Kauaʻi’s aliʻi (chiefly class) and royal births. Today, its stone platform is a powerful reminder of the island’s spiritual and political history.

Poli’ahu Heiau - A sacred temple site within the Wailua Complex of Heiaus, Poliʻahu Heiau was dedicated to ritual and chiefly ceremonies. Though only stone foundations remain, the site holds strong spiritual significance and reflects Kauaʻi’s ancient ruling center along the Wailua River.

‘Opaeka’a Falls - Located in Wailua River State Park, ‘Opaeka’a Falls is a spectacular 150-ft waterfall flowing over volcanic basalt rocks.

This is another photo stop right next to the parking lot as there’s no hike to the falls.

Kauai’s Hindu Monastery - On the outskirts of Wailua State Park, you’ll find a 363-acre Hindu monastery, one of the holiest sites in Hinduism.

The Kadavul Temple houses the largest quartz crystal on earth, surrounded by 108 golden statues of the Hindu god Siva.

Kuilau Ridge Trail - The Kuilau Ridge hike is a relatively flat trail with a shaded path through an old-growth forest.

It’s quite long, but hiking the first mile is recommended.

Keahua Arboretum - More of a leisurely walk than a hike, this area features local plant species like monkeypod trees. You might even spot a rainbow eucalyptus tree!

Sleeping Giant Trail - The Sleeping Giant (Nounou Mountain) - West Trailhead is the easiest of three hikes.

Ho’opi’i Falls - For a waterfall hike, skip Sleeping Giant and head to Ho’opi’i Waterfall Hike.

The trail meanders through a forest to two waterfalls.

To swim, continue past the first fall to the second, where a rope swing lets you jump into the pool below.

Kapaa - Kapa’a Town is a seaside neighborhood with charming restaurants, hotels, and historic landmarks.

Spend the afternoon exploring these sites, visiting local shops, and trying Hawaiian food!

Pono Market - Pono Market is recommended for a poke plate lunch, but there are many cute cafes and restaurants in Kapa’a. Choose your favorite and refuel.

Poipu & Koloa Town Tour

Poipu - Enjoy a quick adventure through ancient Hawaiian Heiau, a blowhole, a tropical garden, snorkeling beaches, mini hikes, and a scenic drive to an ancient fishpond.

Prince Kuhio Park - Learn about Prince Kuhio and his heroic legacy!

Lawa’i Beach - Swim at one of South Kauai’s most picturesque beaches. You might even spot a turtle!

Spouting Horn - Watch as this blowhole, with an intriguing legend, shoots water up to 50 feet high!

The Spa at Koloa Landing - Discover why this location was once a key stop for trading routes between the Americas and Asia.

Kāneiʻolouma Heiau - At Kaneiolouma Cultural Complex, explore an ancient fishing village from the 1400s spanning 13 acres. Discover:

• remains of houses
• fishponds
• religious shrines
• altars with carved idols undisturbed for centuries

Poipu Beach - Poipu Beach is ideal for snorkeling or relaxing and enjoying the scenery.

The water can be choppy in spring and summer, but calmer in fall and winter.

Shipwreck Beach - Begin your visit to Shipwrecks with a hike on the Maha’ulepu Heritage Trail for stunning panoramic bay views.

The path leads to the top of a large rock cliff, offering breathtaking views.

Makauwahi Cave Trail - Just a few miles from Shipwreck Beach is Makauwahi Cave, a fascinating sinkhole inside a large limestone cave.

Geologists believe the cave began forming up to 400,000 years ago as a sand dune. Today, it’s one of Hawai’i’s richest fossil sites!

Puu Wanawana - Stop to see the Pu’uwanawana cinder cone, a mini-volcano.

This cinder cone, along with lava rocks on the beach and other volcanic features, tells the story of Hawai’i’s formation.

Koloa Jodo Mission - This tour is rich in history, and the Koloa Jodo Mission Buddhist Temple is no exception.

Built in 1910 by Japanese immigrants who worked in the sugar cane fields, it’s a small temple with a big history.

Koloa - End your day by visiting the unique shops and boutiques in Old Koloa Town.

Take your time to explore the town’s unique heritage. There are also great spots for dinner.

Koloa Fish Market is recommended for phenomenal poke bowls and local food plates.

Menehune Fish Pond - After visiting Koloa Town, take a bonus drive a couple of miles out to see a beautiful valley with a historically significant fishpond.

This ancient fishpond was said to be created by the legendary Menehune, believed to be Hawai’i’s first inhabitants.

The fishpond is a masterpiece of ancient Hawaiian engineering, surrounded by beautiful scenery.

Poipu - After exploring Koloa Town or visiting the fishpond, head towards Lihue or return to Poipu to end your day at the beach, enjoy dinner, or shop.

Waimea Canyon & Na Pali Coast Tour

Kauai Coffee Company - Check out the app for more info!

Russian Fort Elizabeth State Historical Park - Check out the app for more info!

Waimea - In Waimea Town, there are local places to shop and eat.

Stop for a quick snack, but save this spot for the return trip. We’ll guide you back!

Red Dirt Waterfall - Unlike typical Hawaiian waterfalls, this one flows through Kauai’s red dirt instead of lush jungle. Stop for a quick picture before continuing into the park.

Iliau Nature Loop Trail - On the trail, explore interpretive signs about native plants.

The trail is named after the rare iliau or Kaua’i greensword, found only on Kaua’i.

Waimea Canyon Lookout - The first of two lookouts for Waimea Canyon offers some of the best views on a clear day.

Stand atop the lookout to admire this natural wonder.

Waipo’o Falls Trail - We’ll guide you to a small parking lot for a view of an 800-foot waterfall cascading into the canyon.

Pu’u Hinahina Lookout - The second lookout for Waimea Canyon. At the parking lot’s end is the trailhead for Canyon Trail.

Trail signs can be confusing, so read the app’s Hiking Highlights before starting.

Canyon Trail - The first major hike of the day! The trail starts at the parking lot and leads about ¾ of a mile through lush jungle to Cliff Viewpoint.

Kōkeʻe Lodge - The lodge and museum at Koke’e are on a small mountain plateau. The lodge offers decent food if you’re hungry.

Sometimes there’s live music! The museum displays native plants, animals, and birds.

Kalalau Lookout - Enjoy your first view of the glorious Na Pali Coast.

Don’t worry if dense fog obscures the view; it’s common at this altitude.

Wait a few minutes as the fog often comes and goes.

Pu’u O Kila Lookout - From this lookout, enjoy views of the iconic Na Pali coast.

You can also see Mt. Wai’ale’ale’s peak and Alaka’i Swamp, one of the wettest places on earth with about 450 inches of rain annually.

JoJo’s Shave Ice - Their shave ice comes in a variety of tropical and traditional flavors. Try a combo with vanilla or macadamia nut ice cream. The small size is perfect for sharing.

Kiki a Ola (Menehune Ditch) - At the mountain’s base, past the old swinging bridge, discover the Menehune Ditch, a fascinating part of Kauai’s past.

You might wonder what’s special about a ditch?

We’ll share the story of the Menehune who built this ditch thousands of years ago.

Captain James Cook Statue - In 1778, Captain Cook was the first Westerner to discover Hawaii.

Cook first set foot in Hawai’i here in Waimea. We’ll point out his statue in town.

Hanapepe - In Hanapepe, explore quaint art boutiques, restaurants, murals, and Talk Story, the westernmost bookstore in the U.S.

Feel free to stop anytime during the drive through town.

Hanapepe Swinging Bridge - Check out a cool swinging bridge in Hanapepe. Look for the sign while walking around town.

Lawai - Hanapepe is just minutes from Lawai, where the tour began. We’ll guide you back with a fun story about Kauai’s “state bird.”

• Tours NEVER expire
• Turn-by-turn audio navigation using GPS
• Offline map (map and GPS work completely offline – no wifi or data needed)
• Freedom to explore at your own pace
• Tour highlights with activity and restaurant recommendations
• All 4 Shaka Guide audio driving tours for Kauai
• Audio narration with stories and music

• Car rental
• Meals

Experience the finest of the Garden Isle’s scenery, culture, and hidden gems with this comprehensive self-guided audio tour package. Discover verdant valleys, stunning waterfalls, breathtaking coastlines, and historic towns—all at your own pace with engaging GPS-triggered narration that brings Kauai’s tales to life.

Enjoy complete flexibility: begin any tour whenever you wish, take scenic detours, pause for hikes or photos, and spend time at delightful local spots without the limitations of a group. With offline GPS navigation, expert insights, and lifetime access, you have the freedom to explore both famous landmarks and hidden treasures anywhere on the island.

Included tours:

• North Shore Kauai Driving Tour
• Waimea & Na Pali Driving Tour
• Wailua Valley & Waterfalls Tour
• Poipu & Koloa Driving Tour

Simply add the bundle, download the tours, and set off on multiple unforgettable adventures across Kauai—your journey, your way.

• Get Started Easily: • Book Your Tour: Receive a confirmation and easy instructions via email. • Download the App: Follow the simple steps in your email. • Redeem the Tour: Use the redeem code in your email to redeem the tour in the app. • Prepare Ahead: Download the tour using strong Wi-Fi.
• Begin Your Journey: • Select Your Tour: Go to the My Stuff tab in the Shaka Guide app to launch the tour. • Start the Tour: Select the tour starting point and follow the GPS instructions. • Follow Shaka Guide: Stick to the suggested route and speed for the best experience.
• Why Choose Our Audio Tour: • Cost-Efficient: One tour for the entire vehicle—no per-person fees! • Ultimate Flexibility: Start, pause, and resume on your schedule. • Convenience: Use the tour any day, over multiple days if needed.
• Top Features: • Hands-Free: The tour works automatically - GPS-activated stories, directions, and music play as you drive for a seamless experience. • Works Offline: No need for continuous wifi or data. • Reliable Support: Get help via call, chat, or email.
• Private and Personalized: • Crowd-Free: Enjoy a private tour with just your group. • Customizable Stops: Pick the stops you want and skip the ones you don’t!
• The Ultimate Guided Tour: • Detailed Itinerary: Includes travel tips and recommendations. • Engaging Narration: Captivating stories and history.
• What Our Users Say: • “A fantastic way to explore! Easy to use and very informative.” • “Loved the flexibility to stop and go as we pleased. Highly recommend!”

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.