Alec is a landscape photographer and outdoors storyteller with a zeal for pushing boundaries in the wild. He enjoys hiking, backpacking, and visiting remote places, allowing him to photograph locations the rest of the world shies away from. In addition, Alec loves to write about his travels and craft articles that help educate and inspire others to find their joy in nature.
My Favorite Things to do in Kauai
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Happy 2026! This month is flying by, and it's been extra fast with final wedding plans! Yep, you read that right. Jaimie and I are getting married next Monday. *cue fireworks* Not that wedding plan is ever easy, but we're doing it in Costa Rica, so logistics are a bit complicated. Thankfully, we have an amazing wedding planner down there who is making it so much better. (Looking to get married in CR?? Heidy Quesada is incredible!) Next item up: I have about 30 calendars that NEED to be sold. I'm offering 20% off them if you can please take them off my hands. My soon-to-be wife will be very thankful to not come home from our honeymoon and still see them in my office.
These are my favorite things to do in Kauai2025's top trip was definitely Kauai. We spent 9 days on the island, seeing so much beauty! Maybe, just maybe, I can convince you to get out there, too. It's so worth it! Doors off Helicopter Ride around the islandThe most expensive, but thrilling, excursion you can do in Kauai. It's about $400 per person, but it allows you to see the entire island in one fell swoop. Waterfalls. Na Pali Coast. Lush Interior. Turquoise waters. Awesome beaches. Truly a magical experience. Kalalau Trail on the Napali CoastA world-famous trail and one of the most popular hiking trails on Kauai. Most people only go two miles out and then turn around once they reach the beach. You can tack on another 4 by going to a waterfall. The entire trail is open only to backpackers with a permit. It's about 22 miles round trip. You need a permit to hike it, but it's not too hard to get in advance. Boat Cruise along the Napali CoastWant to see the Na Pali Coast, but the $400 helicopter ride is a bit steep? Totally understand. The boat cruise (plus snorkel during the summer months) is a great way to see this beautiful coastline and spend time on the water. This is a longer tour, so you'll get your money's worth (and usually a meal/drinks). Driving up to Waimea Canyon and Koke'e State ParkJust a heads up, this is a winding road, so anyone who gets car sick, be warned. Once you're up high, it's so gorgeous, and the two conjoined state parks are totally different. Waimea Canyon is more desert-like/canyon-like, while Koke'e is green and offers views of the Na Pali Coast after a decent hike. Fresh PokeThere's nothing like fresh ahi tuna when you're on the Hawaiian islands. Half of Jaimie's side went deep-sea fishing and caught tuna, and we made some at our place. Not saying you need to physically bring home the tuna, but if you do, you won't regret it. >> Read my entire list of 16 things to do in Kauai << Gear CornerIf you're already looking ahead to spring, I have 11 hiking items you might find helpful. Enjoy some of my YouTube VideosEnjoy one of these? Please like and subscribe to boost my work for free! Nature Photos and Relaxing Music for Focus, Stress Relief & Meditation (Throw this on while doing chores or making dinner) My first time seeing Polar Bears A few of my favorite winter hikes in Washington 5 days in Alaska seeing bears (hopefully some inspiration for 2026) One more time! Thanks so much! I'll be back in February with tips for visiting Costa Rica! Looking for a follow-along on the Costa Rican trip? Follow on Instagram: @alecoutside Stay safe out there, and remember to get outside and enjoy the fresh air. |
Hi! I'm Alec, an outdoor writer, photographer, and content creator.
Alec is a landscape photographer and outdoors storyteller with a zeal for pushing boundaries in the wild. He enjoys hiking, backpacking, and visiting remote places, allowing him to photograph locations the rest of the world shies away from. In addition, Alec loves to write about his travels and craft articles that help educate and inspire others to find their joy in nature.
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