Learn about Kauai Island's many attractions and activities including museums, beaches, parks, playgrounds and water sports for families with kids.
On the North shore, kids can enjoy the Kilauea Point National Wildlife Refuge. Here, kids can see thousands of native sea birds as well as dolphins and whales circling in the Pacific Ocean. The refuge is open daily and offers several exhibits and a visitor center. There are always volunteers available to answer questions and give tours. Also on the North shore is the Na Aina Kai Botanical Gardens. Life-sized statues decorate the gardens and there is a big, sandy beach. Kids can enjoy both as soon as they navigate their way through the Poinciana Hedge maze.
On the West side, kids can check out the Kokee Natural History Museum in the Kokee State Park. The museum is open daily and admission is free. Some of the museum's exhibits include: Hawaiian stone artifacts, shells of Kauai, and also, native birds of the island.
The South shore is home to the Koloa History Center. It offers a history of the area as well as maps. Another attraction on the South shore is the Poipu Beach. This is a wonderful beach for kids to play at due to the many water activities available such as surfing and snorkeling. If the kids are too small for those activities, they can play at the Baby Beach, which is the shallowest section of Poipu Beach. The tiny waves make a great place for toddlers to splash.
Coconut Coast offers something that most children will enjoy, the Children's Discovery Museum. Here, there is something for every age. There are numerous historical and archeological activities and even a planetarium. Kids can also check out Marine Life and delve into the ongoing educational opportunities. The museum is host to many different exhibits that constantly change to keep it interesting. Also on Coconut Coast, is the Wailua Riverstate Park. Kids and their families can enjoy the big picnic areas and campgrounds. Other activities at Coconut Coast are kayaking, waterskiing and hiking trails.
The West side of Kauai Island offers Hanapepe Valley Lookout, a valley overlooking hills, lush gardens and exotic landscapes. Kids have a unique interest in this place because it's the home of Steven Spielberg's movie, Jurassic Park.
In Lihue Kalapaki, kids will absolutely adore the Lydgate State Park as it's decorated with many picnic grounds, swimming areas and scenic beaches. On the north end of Lydgate Park is the Kamalani Playground. Kids will love to wisp down the volcano slide, adore artwork and venture through mazes. In addition, they can enjoy the Kamalani Kai Bridge and the bike trail.
Families can enjoy many activities on Kauai Island. Activities such as boat excursions, horseback riding, helicopter rides, surfing, fishing, windsurfing, scuba diving, camping and hiking trails are found throughout Kauai Island.
