How To Spend A Week In Kaua’i
Time needed on this island: 1 week
Anyone that has been to Kaua’i knows first-hand how magical and serene this island is. No matter where you go, what road you are driving down, you can’t help but think, “this is where fairytales come from”.
For the last nine days, I spent my time trying to unwind from life back home but spent even more time exploring this island as much as I could.
The below information is a complete guide of the best places to stay, the top rated places to dine and drink, and all there is to see and do. We’ve also included transportation tips, as well as a summary of the history of this beautiful island!
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Where to Stay
NORTH TO PRINCEVILLE AND HANALEI BAY OR SOUTH TO PO’IPU?
There were two big factors going into my decision of which side of the island to stay on: rain and where most of my activities would be. With Mt. Waialeale commanding the north side of the island, its peak, Kawaikini Peak, averaging 400 inches of rain a year, along with the fact that my planned activities fell to the south and the east side of the island, it was an easy choice.
Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort & Spa (Po’Ipu)
With an upbeat vibe and it’s luxe and chic feel, the Grand Hyatt has access to a larger beach, a spa, a golf course, many restaurant options, and late night entertainment. It’s a great all-around choice in Poipu!
Ko’a Kea
Ko’a Kea is rated as one of the top luxury resorts in the world by several travel publications and because it’s a Meritage Property, it means you’re getting comfortable ocean front accommodations and amenities, far less children, and far less noise than other more family-friendly resorts. The downside, it’s one of the more expensive properties to stay at. For eight nights, it was around $5600 for the oceanfront balcony room (though the view was totally worth it).
Other hotels in po’ipu
Kiahuna 323 Sweet Leilani (condo)
Po’ipu Beach Estates (top floor apartment)
hotels in hanalei/Princeville
Pali Ke Kua (condo)
other places in Kaua’i
3 Acre Beach Front Home (Pakala Village)
Beachfront Home (Anini Beach)
Fern Grotto Inn (Kapaa)
Waipouli Beach Resort (condo) (Wailua)
Where to Dine & Drink
One of the biggest costs for me was food. It didn’t matter where I went - grocery stores, cafes, or restaurants - it was all expensive. But, the quality was well worth the price at each place I tried.
Po'ipu/Koloa
I first heard about Kauai Juice Company through their Instagram page and was beyond excited to make a stop (or two) to keep myself as healthy as possible, among all of the dinners I had planned. Aside from the below list I tried, they also had so many more juices, foods, oils, and also Kombucha on tap!
AKALA (top favorite) - One of the best antioxidant juices that I wish I could stock up on at home
MINTACOLADA (top favorite) - Incredibly refreshing and another I wish I could stock up on at home
Island Protein (top favorite) - This is a GREAT protein shake and replaced most of my breakfasts
Daily Wellness (top favorite) - It’s packed with vitamins, antioxidants, and anti-inflammatory elements
Macadamia Nut Pesto Quinoa Salad (top favorite) - This is definitely a must-have. It’s a great lunch-time meal.
Strawberry Chia Parfait (highly recommended) - It’s a great snack/breakfast food
The Coconut Cult - Probiotic Coconut Yogurt (highly recommended)- You only need two tablespoons a day to get the probiotics everyone needs. Make sure to get it on day one of your trip.
Lydgate Farms Hawaiian Chocolate (recommended if you like chocolate) - I’m a big fan of organic chocolate and it’s choc-full of antioxidants
Bread & Butter Pickles (recommended if you like pickles) - They’re really good, but it’s a lot! Unless you’re going to eat them everyday while you’re on vacation, I’d skip it.
Master Cleanse (recommended if needed) - It’s extremely spicy and hard to consume, but it’s great for you.
Dream (recommended if needed) - It doesn’t have a great taste and I’m partial to Melatonin, so it was a “no” for me. However, some people prefer liquids to sublingual dissolves
Liver Cure (not recommended) - Coconut water is just as effective for hangovers and tastes far better
NOTE: All items they sell are gluten-free
LAPPERT’S ICE CREAM
There’s a reason why there’s always a line out the door! Their ice creams and sorbets, not to mention, their pastries (not gluten-free friendly), are to die for. I recommend trying:
Coconut pineapple ice cream (GF)
Strawberry ice cream (GF)
Raspberry sorbet (GF)
Passion Fruit sorbet (GF)
LITTLE FISH COFFEE CO.
This little cafe is always packed with people and for good reason. It’s known for its coffee, it’s smoothies, and its made-to-order sandwiches and salads. I recommend:
“Monkey Nuts” smoothie with coconut flakes, chia seeds, and espresso (GF)
Breakfast sandwich
“Green Machine” smoothie with whey protein
LIVING FOODS MARKET
I fell in love with this market on the second day I was in Kaua’i. They have so many made-to-order foods, as well as healthy grocery staples - it’s like a boutique Whole Foods. The best part, for those who are gluten-free, they have gluten-free pizza crust, which makes for an excellent breakfast pizza (guilty of ordering that twice in a week)! They also have great smoothies (try the green smoothie), teas, and a wide variety of other breakfast and lunch items. I also picked up some healthier snacks from their grocery aisles.
THE BEACH HOUSE
One of the top-rated restaurants on Kaua’i, is also the site of many weddings and other celebrations, offering great views of the island’s sunsets. It definitely has more of a casual feel than I was expecting and the service wasn’t top-notch, but the food, wine, and bar menus made up for it.
I recommend:
Cocktail: No Ka Oi (GF)
Appetizer: Lobster deviled eggs (GF)
Main course: Fire-grilled, center-cut pork loin (GF)
Main course: Fresh Catch and Keahole Lobster
Dessert: Sorbetto Trio (GF)
Note for gluten-free people: They mark their gluten-free items with “GF” and are very good about making sure that food is prepared on a different side of the kitchen.
RED SALT
Nestled in Ko’a Kea’s main building, Red Salt is the only restaurant available on the property, next to the poolside dining. Unfortunately, I found it to be underwhelming, mainly because they didn’t really cater to gluten-free people all that well. I recommend:
Cocktails: The Espresso Martini (off-menu/GF) and the Mai Tai (GF)
Appetizer: The mozzarella, tomato, and basil salad (GF)
Main Courses: Bowl of mushroom bisque (GF) and The Red Salt Burger (according to co-traveler, “it’s $50 of amazingness” )
RUM FIRE
This was the last restaurant I tried in Kauai and as far as service, ambience, and overall food was concerned, it was fantastic. The waiters, as well as the kitchen, were highly accommodating of my Celiac. I recommend:
Main Courses: Kauai Island Salad with chicken and Hawaiian Fresh Fish and Succotash (both GF)
Dessert: Flourless Dark Chocolate Torte (this will say “gluten-free” but it will need to be modified)
Off-menu cocktail: Baileys and Jaeger in a chocolate swirled glass. They use 151 Rum to burn and cinnamon to create the fireworks (GF).
Other Options
Cozy local eatery whipping up hearty American breakfast chow in snug quarters with outdoor seating.
Innovative small plates such as polenta & scallops steal the show at this urban chic eatery.
Per their website, “It’s more than just a meal. It’s a cultural experience. The menu is crafted with inspiration from the team’s travel and cooking adventures. Indulge in some of their favorite flavors and embark on a culinary journey.”
Duane’s Ono Char Burger (No website)
No-frills roadside shack with outdoor picnic tables serving hamburgers, onion rings & shakes. Address: 4-4350 Kuhio Hwy, Anahola
History-minded Hawaiian spot by Roy Yamaguchi for traditional & modern fare with local sourcing.
Grand Hyatt Hotel's tranquil terrace with koi ponds serves breakfast buffets, sandwiches & steaks.
A gourmet good truck with thousands of great reviews!
They are a health-conscious restaurant with the majority of their meals made gluten-free. If they aren’t, they ensure they are prepared in a separate area.
Popular food cart serving up sausages, hot dogs & grilled cheese sandwiches heaped with toppings.
Taco Libre (top-rated)
Mexican food truck with authentic taste and friendly service
Per their description, “Our menu celebrates our local who supply the most fresh ingredients which may be seasonal and their availability is weather dependent. We source our Indian grocery from India through our suppliers in mainland.”
Grand Hyatt destination offers upscale Hawaiian cuisine in open-air thatch huts along a lagoon.
Princeville/Hanalei
Brightly-colored, cash-only food truck serving Indian plates from curries to meats & seafood dishes.
Da Fazenda is a Brazilian Food Truck on the north shore of Kaua’i, in the heart of Hanalei Town.
Modest food stand whipping up health-conscious sweet & savory bowls, plus specialty drinks & coffee.
A variety of shakes & smoothies, plus Hawaiian grilled cheese in quaint digs.
Simple food truck dispensing down-home breakfast dishes, including pancakes, sandwiches & burritos.
A Mediterranean-influenced food truck.
Colorful, energetic coffee shop turning out seafood, local dishes & other comfort fare.
Enduring pit stop dishing out Hawaiian shave ice in unique flavors, açai bowls & organic coffee.
Things to See & Do
There is so much to do on this island and while I covered a fair amount, I know there’s so much I’ve yet to explore. If you’re a first-timer that wants to get the “best of” during your stay, check out my recommendations below:
ALLERTON GARDEN (KOLOA)
For my final day in Kaua’i, I happened to stumble upon the Allerton Garden Tour in one of my official guide maps, which also mapped out movie filming locations all over the island. In this case of these gardens, a lot of movies were filmed there, including Pirates of the Caribbean 4: On Stranger Tides and Jurassic Park. Being the total movie geek I am, I booked the tour online before I went (which is recommended). At $60pp, it was well worth it… once the tour started…
I had about a 40minutes before the tour was to begin, so I decided to walk the grounds (which are free). It’s mating season… and spiders are precious to the ecosystem there… so they’re everywhere… and if I had a choice between running through a zombie-infested haunted house (also a massive fear) or walking under and next to spiderwebs with 4-5-inch-long spiders, I’d choose the house.
After twenty minutes of (what felt like) immersive fear-conquering conditioning (I failed), I walked through the gift shop and to the outdoor waiting area, which in my manic state, checked under the bench before sitting on it. Soon after, the tour guide, Paul, was there to greet our group.
PRO TIP: If anyone chooses to take the tour, call to see when Paul is available. Not only does he have one of the coolest life stories (previous bass player for Weird Al Yankovich and We Five, as well as numerous other well-known bands and artists), but he’s also incredibly engaging and charismatic. He also takes the time to tell you where the best picture spots are/takes the pictures for you.
We pile into the small tour bus and head up into the mountain to reach the private property where the Allerton Gardens are located. On the way there, we see this:
According to the history of the property, “Queen Emma of Hawaii resided above this property for a short period of time in a modest house that was moved to the valley floor and renovated. The entire valley, including what is now the adjacent McBryde Garden, was leased, and later purchased, by the McBryde family in the late 19th century for a sugarcane plantation.
Robert Allerton and his life partner, John Gregg Allerton, came to Kaua’i in 1938 and purchased a relatively small portion of Queen Emma's plantation for a residence and gardens. They quickly began designing the landscape master plan, including individual outdoor atriums, Hawaiian plants, tropical plants from Asia and other Pacific Islands, as well as landscape elements that were considered avant-garde for their day. They had a flair for the dramatic.
Allerton would later join a group of individuals and organizations who were pushing for the establishment of a tropical botanical garden on U.S. soil. In his final year before he died, Allerton was able to witness the charter being granted and the creation of the Pacific Tropical Botanical Garden (now National Tropical Botanical Garden). John Gregg Allerton maintained the garden until his death in 1986, and left it in trust. In the early 1990s, management was assumed by the National Tropical Botanical Garden and the garden was named after its founding fathers.”
After twenty minutes of driving along the ridge line and into the valley, we arrived at the starting point for our tour, which is named “Pump 6”. It’s here that the waterfalls are controlled and unfortunately, it was broken the day we arrived. It’s also the location of the late Queen’s modest house.
In addition to these two landmarks on the property, it also houses a conservation center that protects rare plants from all over the world (including five rare orchids, valued at $50,000 a piece). Impressively, it’s designed to withstand a category 5 hurricane.
After the overview of this area, we began our two-mile trek around the gardens and it was one of the most magical, fairy-tale-like tours we could have taken. Check out the slide show below (note the large-rooted fig tree pictures - part of Jurassic Park was filmed in the roots and surrounding areas of these trees):
BOOK A JURASSIC PARK HELICOPTER TOUR (LIHUE)
About 10%t of the 552-square-mile island is accessible by car, which means you’re either exploring the rest on foot or by air. Knowing that the best way to get the “lay of the land” is by circling the island in a little less than two hours, I chose to make a helicopter tour one of the first things I did.
I booked the “Jurassic Falls Helicopter Landing Adventure” with Kauai’s premiere helicopter tour company, Island Helicopters ($380pp - cash price), and it was one of the best decisions I made.
Not only did I learn so much about the island, but landing onto the exact spot where they filmed part of Jurassic Park was so cool.
PRO TIPS:
Two hours in a helicopter can be a lot. If you’re prone to motion sickness, I’d go for the shorter tour.
WEAR DARK CLOTHING! They advise of this before your tour. The glare from the full windows (as you can see in some of my video) can be bad and if you have any light clothing on, it will not allow for others to take pictures. Dress in all black, from head to toe.
Book this tour at least one month in advance! This tour books up fast!
Consider tipping your pilot! I tipped 20%.
CATCH AS MANY HAWAIIAN SUNSETS AS YOU CAN
GO TO A LUAU (KAPA’A)
If you’ve never been to Hawaii and are planning on going, a luau is one of the first things you should book! Having done a ton of research on who has the best one on the island, I chose the Smith Family Garden Luau, which turned out to go far above and beyond what I had expected.
They say that if you get there when the doors open at 5pm, you can walk the grounds or take the tour, via a motorized tram. DO NOT miss the opportunity to do this! Here’s why…
Promptly an hour later, we were ushered to the dining pavilion where the Imu Ceremony took place. It’s a fun tradition to watch and learn about, though I can’t imagine having to do that five times a week for a few hundred people.
PRO TIP: Get to the pavilion a few minutes early and reserve your seat! These are long, family-style tables and unless you have a large party of six or more, it’s first-come, first served.
When the ceremony concluded, everyone was asked to take their seats because they call you by table to go to the buffet.
The buffet is very gluten-free friendly (everything is labeled) and consists of traditional Hawaiian fare from all nationalities represented on the island: pork, Mahi Mahi, chicken, beef, fried rice, two different kinds of potatoes, different kinds of vegetables and salads, Hawaiian breads, traditional desserts, and all-you-can-drink Mai Tais and non-alcoholic Hawaiian punch.
Dinner lasted about an hour-and-a-half before it was announced we’d be moving into the Luau Amphitheater.
PRO TIP: Get there earlier so you can sit in the first few rows of the middle section - it’s the best viewing area!
GOLF AT A PGA COURSE WITH THE BEST SUNRISES (PO’IPU)
Arguably one of the coolest things we got to do on the island was golf the most beautiful back nine of Poipu Bay Country Club.
For $155pp (which included green fees, cart rental and club rental), I was the first to play the back nine at 7am that morning. And well…
PRO TIP: If you don’t own golf gloves and/or failed to bring any balls, tees, etc., the golf shop has everything you need. There’s also a surprise they give you at the end of your round, which I don’t want to ruin, but it’s very cool!
SHOP FOR LOCAL GOODS
There are very specific things we always look to buy on trips and it usually falls in following categories: Food seasonings, Christmas ornaments, and good skin care. Below are my recommendations on where to go and what to buy:
Whaler’s General Store in Poipu Village: Stock up on teas, rubs, hot sauces, salts, salad dressings, and so much more!
Mālie Organics in the Kukui'ula Village Shopping Center: Stock up on their lotions (we bought two bottles of Coconut and one of the Plumeria), hair care, and face care lines!
Martin and MacArthur in the Kukui'ula Village Shopping Center, as well as the Grand Hyatt: I purchased a hand-painted glass Christmas ornament (we collect Christmas ornaments from around the world)
TAKE A DAY TRIP TO THE NORTH END
There is so much to see on Kaua’i that I’d be remiss in not taking one day to drive to the north end of the island. Below are four stops I highly recommend!
STOP AT THE SCENIC OVERLOOKS
Along the path towards the lighthouse and to Princeville/Hanalei, there are a lot of scenic overlooks you can stop and take pictures at. Since it’s the end of calving season for whales, these weren’t as popular as they were even two weeks earlier. Regardless, stop and take in the beauty!
I love lighthouses. Anywhere you go in the world that has one, will arguably have the best view of its coastline, and there’s something peaceful in that (given that lighthouse caretakers didn’t have a peaceful job during inclement weather).
PRO TIP: There are two parking lots - one for viewing the refuge and one for the lighthouse. Drive past the gates and continue down the road until you end at the parking lot.
KAYAKING AT HANALEI BAY
Friends of our Facebook group recommended a kayaking tour around Hanalei Bay, that it was one of the best things they could have done. Click here for a great tour!
PRINCEVILLE RESORT FOR LUNCH AND BEACH TIME
Good friends of mine recommended that I at least spend an afternoon at Princeville Resort (formerly the St. Regis) and I’m glad I took their suggestion! After lunch at Nalu Kai, I changed into my swimwear and headed to the beach for an hour of sun and sand. The resort’s beach is small but incredibly peaceful, and I was lucky to get the sun I did!
ANAINA HOU MINI GOLF & GARDENS (KAUAI)
On the way up, I had passed by Anaina Hou Mini Golf & Gardens and knew immediately I had to stop on the way back down to my resort. For $14 pp, I played one of the toughest and most beautiful mini golf courses I’ve ever played.
TUBING THROUGH A SUGAR MILL (LIHUE)
Through the power of Instagram, I found a company called “Kauai Back Country Adventures” that does tubing and zip lining excursions. The tubing was of interest because of where it was located: An old sugar mill that Steve Case purchased in 2000 to preserve the land.
The tour starts at their warehouse so you can be fitted with the appropriate hard hat, cave light, and gloves. They also have water shoes for rent (not stylish but practical), along with wet wear (I suggest a long-sleeved rash guard at the very least), sunblock, and bug repellent for sale.
Once you’re fitted, you’re taken to the waiting vans to drive you into the very middle of Kauai where the sugar mill is located. NOTE: If you’re prone to motion sickness, this ride will be difficult for you, as it’s extremely bumpy.
We made one stop at Kilohana Crater (panoramic image above), which was important for three notable reasons: First, the light green area you see in the panoramic picture above, isn’t grass - it’s a kind of moss that grows on the tops of trees, which means if you try to step on it, you can fall as high as 180 feet (great PSA for hikers)! Second: The top of Mount Waialeale (in the background of the panoramic picture) has a swamp that is home to over 100 endangered species (a cool fact to impress friends). Third: Tropic Thunder filmed eighty-percent of their movie in the field of that crater (I geek out over movie facts).
After we took pictures and learned more from the guide about this crater, we went onto the sugar plantation to begin a brief walking tour, then get in our tubes and go.
Some interesting facts about the plantation:
In the 1870s, Chinese workers were coming back from building the transcontinental railway and stopped in Kaua’i for provisions. They saw the sugar mill workers were manually transporting water to the fields and ended up digging five irrigation tunnels (about two-and-a-half miles in-total) to get water to the crops, faster.
The new tunnels were then stocked with prawns, tilapia, small-mouthed bass, and some turtles - all food for workers in the field.
The entire plantation was 17,000 acres, which needed almost two million gallons of water a day. In fact, to make one pound of sugar, you needed almost one ton of that water.
After our tour, we were helped into our tubes (the water was definitely “brisk”) and off we went. For the next 2 1/2 hours, we went down slow rapids, fast rapids, and even a three-foot waterfall. We also went through all five tunnels and through exotic forested areas.
When our tour was over, we were brought in an open-air bus to a picnic area, nestled amongst gigantic trees, for a provided lunch. It was a unique experience and one I’m glad I did.
PRO TIPS:
Definitely wear a swimsuit, a long-sleeved rash guard (found at any surf shop), athletic shorts or other quick-dry clothing, and water shoes.
Make sure to pack your sunscreen, two towels per person (one to dry yourself with and another to wrap yourself in), and cheap sunglasses. Or, bring a change of dry clothes.
You will be able to bring your bag with these items on the van, as they have someone who transports them to the exit location.
If you choose to bring a camera, make sure it’s one that can get wet, that you can strap to yourself.
Book this AT LEAST ONE MONTH IN ADVANCE.
other ideas
Ahi Uila Fire Show and Dinner
The Ahi Uila Fire Show on Kauai stands out for its mesmerizing blend of traditional Polynesian culture and contemporary performance art. Unlike typical fire shows, Ahi Uila's presentation intertwines ancient Hawaiian mythology and storytelling with modern choreography and pyrotechnics. Performers expertly wield flaming poi balls, creating intricate patterns of light and shadow that dance across the night sky, captivating audiences with each flick of the wrist. What truly sets this show apart is its emphasis on cultural authenticity, as it incorporates elements of hula, chanting, and legends passed down through generations, offering spectators a deeply immersive experience that celebrates the rich heritage of the Hawaiian islands.
Air Kauai Helicopter Tour
Soar over the rugged Na Pali Coast for an unparalleled view of the emerald spires and sea cliffs, admire the “Jurassic Park Falls” made famous by the hit film, and fly over the red desert valleys of the Waimea Canyon. It's the best way to see the island in all its glory, with a local perspective thanks to the pilot’s narration.
Farm & Food Tour
Our experience offers a showcase of what grows on Kauai in our regenerative food forest: A collection of exotic and delicious foods brought to Hawai`i from all corners of the globe. Coffee, pineapple, tree tomato, kava, mamak'i, heart of palm, papaya, bananas, and more! More importantly it demonstrates a model for how food can be grown in harmony with nature, planted in concert so there is no need for imported fertilizers and pesticides. The tour concludes with a family style meal to savor and enjoy while celebrating the delicious diversity that exists on Kauai all while exploring our mission here at Common Ground. 100% Island sourced because it should be, from the cooking oil to the seasonings. Feel free to grab beer or wine from the bar to relax into a perfect island evening in a beautiful tropical farm setting.
Kaua’i: Hawaii Movie Tours
See the Garden Island through a filmmaker’s lens on this full-day tour of Kauai’s most famous movie locations. Travel aboard a comfortable minibus to the beaches, towns, waterfalls and lookout points that you may recognize from movies like ‘Blue Hawaii,’ ‘Tropic Thunder,’ ‘Pirates of the Caribbean,’ ‘Castaway’ and ‘Jurassic Park.’ Watch clips on board the bus, and then compare the Hollywood scenes to the breathtaking beauty right before your eyes.
Kaua’i Yoga On the Beach
Invigorate your mind and body with a 1.5-hour beach yoga session in Kauai. Practice right on the sand of glorious Kapaa beach with a friendly, certified instructor, letting the gentle ocean waves and balmy island air inspire guided breathing and stretching. Conclude this morning class with a brief meditation for perfect balance.
Private Waimea Canyon Tour
Experience the best of Kauai on a full-day private tour through the island’s scenic landscape, highlights and historic landmarks. Sample locally-grown beans at the Kauai Coffee Company, and visit old-fashioned Hanapepe; see the last Russian outpost on Hawaii, follow the footsteps of Captain Cook and take in stunning views of Waimea Canyon. Feel the mist off Waipo’o Falls, watch the Spouting Horn lava tube erupt with towering surf and watch for sea turtles in a sheltered cove. (Price is based on a party of four to six passengers.)
Wailua River Kayak and Sacred Fall Hike
Explore the natural beauty of Kauai with a combo hiking and kayaking adventure on the Wailua River. Enjoy a leisurely paddle down this sacred river surrounded by lush tropical scenery, and then disembark for a guided nature hike to a waterfall. Refuel with a picnic lunch, and then take a dip in the refreshing waters of the pool at the base of the falls. No kayaking experience is necessary — just bring your sense of adventure! Choose from a morning or afternoon departure to suit your schedule.
Walking Food Tour Exploring Hanalei
Kauai is filled with fabulous places to eat, but for visitors to the island it can be tricky to know how to find the gems and avoid the tourist traps. This guided tour takes the guesswork out of your trip. You'll enjoy culinary delights while exploring the small town of Hanalei and its best restaurants.
How to Get Around
Once you figure out where you’re staying, you then need to figure out how you’re getting around. I did extensive research on Lyfts and taxis and found both to be few and far between. If they did exist, they were expensive and after eight days, it would have far exceeded the cost of renting a car. I chose to rent a Jeep from Avis for my day excursions. If I went to another property for dinner (which was almost every night), I took the Poipu Shuttle, “Aloha Spirit”, which runs entirely on gratuity. The drivers are friendly and super fun, which made my dinners that much more enjoyable.
PRO TIP: Jeeps are great on gas mileage! Unleaded regular gas in Kauai is close to California prices, but still expensive. For eight days, driving all around the island, I only filled up once, on the way to the airport, to drop the Jeep off.
A History Summary
5 million B.C. - Kaua’i was “born”.
200 A.D. - 600 A.D. - Polynesian inhabitants, originally from the Marquesas Islands, settled on the island, living undisturbed for around 500 years, until a second wave of seafarers arrived by sea-canoe from Tahiti. Many Hawaiian traditions and belief structures are rooted in the religion and practices that arrived with these Tahitians.
1778 - Captain James Cook arrived at Waimea Bay, the first European known to have reached the Hawaiian islands. He named the archipelago the "Sandwich Isles" after his patron, the 6th Earl of Sandwich, George Montagu.
1810 - 1824 - During the reign of King Kamehameha, Kaua’i and Ni’ihau were the last Hawaiian Islands to join his Kingdom of Hawai’i. Their ruler, Kaumuali’i, resisted Kamehameha for years. Kamehameha twice prepared a huge armada of ships and canoes to take the islands by force, and twice failed, once because of a storm, and once because of an epidemic. But in the face of the threat of a further invasion, Kaumuali’i decided to join the kingdom without bloodshed, and became Kamehameha's vassal. He ceded the island to the Kingdom of Hawai’i upon his death.
1815 - A ship from the Russian-American Company was wrecked on the island
1816 - 1817 - Kaumualiʻi signed an agreement to allow the Russians to build Fort Elizabeth, in an attempt to gain support from the Russians against Kamehameha I. Construction began during 1817, but in July of that year, under mounting resistance of Native Hawaiians and American traders, the Russians were expelled. The settlement on Kaua’i was an instance of a Pacific outpost of the Russian Empire.
1820 - The first missionaries arrived and with that, stricter rules on how to conduct a more modest life. It’s because of this that the mu‘umu‘u was born and hula was no longer performed (for a long time).
1835 - 1900 - Old Koloa Town opened a sugar mill. During this span, the number of sugar cane fields grew from 50 acres to 100,000 acres.
1900 - Hawaii became a Territory of the United States, and Hawaii was allowed a delegate to the U.S. Congress.
1906 - 1965 - Kauaʻi Fruit and Land Co. operated in Lawai, building the now-defunct Lawai Pineapple Cannery.
1906 - 1934 - The office of County Clerk was held by John Mahi’ai Kāneakua, who had been active in attempts to restore Queen Liliuokalani to the throne after the U.S. takeover of Hawai’i in 1893.
1933 - Lois Weber made the first film in Kaua’i for the film White Heat.
1959 - Hawaii became the 50th state but also, Hurricane Dot came through and wreaked havoc on buildings and crops.
1982 - Hurricane ‘Iwa struck, to which the President called a state of emergency for the island.
Today - Kaua’i’s biggest revenue generator is tourism.
