3 of the best hidden hikes on Kauai according to a Hawaii local, plus where to snorkel, see wildlife, and more

Sarah EtinasSep 13, 2022, 18:08 IST

Kauai is filled with wilderness reserves and hiking spots, like the Mahaulepu Heritage Coastal Trail.Michelle Mishina for Insider

Kauai is filled with incredible activities for an outdoorsy vacation, from snorkeling to hiking.
Here's a list of must-do activities from a Hawaii local to help map out your travel itinerary.

As an Oahu local, I've been lucky enough to travel to Kauai more times than I can count. And every time I visit, I find new and incredible things to do. But my favorites are consistently Kauai's outdoor activities. After all, with the beautiful Na Pali Coast, the eye-catching Waimea Canyon, the beaches, the cascading waterfalls, and so much more, why would anyone on the island want to spend time indoors?

Whether you're ready to surf the waves or prefer a leisurely hike with unparalleled views, there's an adventure for every visitor on Kauai. Here are the activities and experiences I recommend on the island.

Soak up the sun at Polihale State Park.

Avoid the crowds by visiting Polihale State Park for much needed beach time.Michelle Mishina for Insider

Hike through Waimea Canyon.

Waimea Canyon was carved thousands of years ago by rivers flowing from Mount Waiʻaleʻale.Tyler Sonnemaker/Insider

Experience Hanapepe Art Night.

Hit the south side of Kauai for a night full of art and community.Michelle Mishina for Insider

Explore and hike Kokee State Park.

Hike the Kalalau Trail along the coastline in Kokee State park.IndustryAndTravel/Shutterstock

Say hello to animals at the Kilauea Point National Wildlife Refuge.

For animal enthusiasts, the Kilauea Point National Wildlife Refuge is a must-stop.Michelle Mishina for Insider

Go mountain tubing in the Wailua River Valley.

Take a guided tubing tour down the winding Wailua River.Khallies/Shutterstock.

Kayak to Secret Falls.

Uluwehi Falls aka Secret Falls is set among lush mountains in Kauai.Mark Wilson/500px/Getty Images

Hike the Mahaulepu Heritage Coastal Trail.

Mahaulepu Heritage Coastal Trail is a hike filled with unbeatable views.Michelle Mishina for Insider

Sail and snorkel along the Na Pali Coast.

Spend a day on the Na Pali Coast and catch a glimpse of local marine life.Alexander Demyanenko/Shutterstock

Visit the Kauai Community College farmers' market.

The Kauai Community College farmers’ market is the perfect place to find fresh produce on the island.Michelle Mishina for Insider

I visit Kauai multiple times a year and these are my 10 favorite places to stay, from a resort with waterslides to a surf shack on Airbnb

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