Kauai is a good low-key spot.  There aren’t an overwhelming amount of activities, but there are parks, beaches and things to see and do for the whole family.  We stayed in a VRBO and cooked meals there, this worked great because dining options are limited and have very short hours compared to other islands so it was helpful to be able to make food when we needed to.  We were also walking distance to beaches with turtles, running trails near the hotel and a short drive to the town/stores. If you want to program each day with activities, this may not be the right destination, but for a more laid back trip with kids, this worked great.

• Coffee plantation tour:

  • Access: A beautiful drive along the coast led to the plantation.  It didn’t require a reservation, though we were told it filled up early. We arrived when it opened and bought tickets. 

  • Layout: We followed the self-guided tour which had good signs and was very informative. It was a good path to follow and easy to navigate with a stroller. Interactive stations at kid level were throughout so they could view and touch drying coffee beans and learn about the process.

  • Amenities:

    • There is a small café with very limited seating.  Almost all of the items are coffee or dessert, so plan accordingly to get a seat and if you have a little kiddo as they don’t have much for children.

    • Bathroom was small, I ended up changing our daughter in the car because that was easier.

    • Not much shade along the path and it felt very warm, even early on in the day (as to be expected).

• Waiamea Canyon/Park

  • Access: Winding drive up the mountain to access the park.  Signage was good enough, but not great.  Phone service didn’t work for us (AT&T) at all and we had two cars and got separated, so it was a bit tricky. There aren’t easy places to pull off for the first part of the drive up so if baby needs something, have it within arms reach.

  • Layout: Overlook is somewhat stroller friendly but there are steps and rocks so carrying baby is the way to go. Steep drop offs in parts so keep kiddos close.

    • There are lots of roosters running around, they don’t bother anyone but could be scary for kids who don’t like them.

    • The views of the canyon are absolutely stunning! Really fun to go see it.  We didn’t do a full hike but there are several available. 

  • Amenities: There’s a big park with picnic tables right off the main entrance road.  It has some shade and a lot of parking and space to run.  We stopped here and ate the picnic we brought. Food options within the park are limited so bring what you want.  There is a small coffee shop and a café also.

    • Parking at the lookout is crazy.  There are not many spots and there are a ton of people. They also ticket actively so if you think you can sneak a quick peek and not pay, you’re wrong, we don’t know who was patrolling but we got a warning note after 10 minutes.  We paid.  We were told if it isn’t displayed they check back and ticket.

    • Bring more water than you think, it was pretty dry and hot with the wind.

• Smith’s Luau

  • Access: Must drive and park.  They have a very easy process to park you in the first open spot.

  • Layout: Very large property (3 acres with gardens, ponds, bridges, animals-it’s really amazing!).  Bring a stroller if you have kids as even the walk from the parking lot is a bit far, then inside its on multiple acres with gorgeous gardens and a path that winds through all of the different areas of the property. The dining pavilion is in the center and restrooms are a short distance from there. Adjacent to the restrooms is the Luau performance amphitheater. Strollers cannot go into this area, you park them outside and walk up the stairs to enter.

  • Amenities: Kids 3 and under were free when we went. Food and drinks are included, as is the show. Worth the price.

• Turtle cove beach

  • Access: Some parking in a lot, street parking, or walk from area.

  • Layout: Small beach cove with a barrier makes it very warm, calm waters. A large playground on cushioned ground is nearby. Picnic structures with tables are behind the beach with views of the water, just across the street from Puka Dog.

  • Amenities: Shower area to rinse off. Didn’t use the bathrooms so cannot comment on those.