How easy is it to drive around Kauai?

The northwestern shore of the island, about a quarter of its coastline, is not accessible by vehicle due to the cliffs of the Na Pali Coast. This means that you cannot drive the whole way around the island of Kauai. That said, you can reach its towns and cities via a few Kauai main roads.



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Seeing the whole island of Kauai in a day may sound like a lot, but it can indeed be done! Driving around the entire island takes around 2 hours, not including pit stops! If you want to make the most of your drive, the best way is to map out a few points you would like to explore along the route.

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Only around 10% of Kauai is accessible by car, and a large proportion is not accessible by foot at all. This means that some of Kauai's most incredible sights must be seen on foot, by boat and from the air!

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North Shore Mobility Study Kauai's narrow roads, unique terrain, and limited parking contribute to many issues when it comes to navigating the north shore smoothly and safely.

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Do I need a 4wd vehicle anywhere on Kauai? No - any rental car type will get you where you need to go, as long as you stay on the paved roads. There are some road restrictions on Kauai where rental cars are not allowed, and you would need to check at the counter when you pick up your vehicle.

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Taxis and ride share options from the airport are the most direct options for those without a rental car, but they can often be expensive. Don't forget that there are shared airport shuttles on Kaua?i that can get you from the airport to your hotel for a reasonable price.

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Remember you are on vacation, and driving on Kauai is unlike driving on the mainland. Our roadways, for the most part, are two lanes with little or no shoulder. Please use caution and be respectful of pedestrians and bicyclists. Kauai is a small island community.

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While our island is almost circular, (approximately 25 miles wide and 33 miles long) the Napali coastline prohibits construction of roads from the north shore to the west side, so driving times from one end of the island (Ke'e Beach on the northshore) to the west side (Polihale Beach) will take roughly 2 hours 50 ...

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For a well-rounded experience, spending at least 5-7 days on Kauai is recommended. This allows enough time to explore the island's diverse attractions and participate in various activities while having some downtime for relaxation. If you're short on time, 4-5 days will allow you to see most of the island.

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If you're ready to trade the hustle and bustle for variety and adventure in your life, Maui probably sounds like the perfect escape. If you're looking for something quieter and family-friendly, with plenty of outdoor activities and natural beauty, Kauai is the ideal island paradise.

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The best time of year to visit Kauai is during off-peak seasons, between September and December or between April and June. During these times you can avoid the crowds and enjoy lower prices on accommodations and excursions. Either way, be sure to book everything far in advance!

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Personally, I feel that Kauai deserves your undivided vacation attention, and even a full devoted week in Kauai will still feel too short. For your 7 day Kauai itinerary, you definitely have time to move around and explore different areas for all the best things to do in Kauai.

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Kauai Slow Season: Late Fall and Winter While there may not be a “bad” time to visit Kauai, the late fall and winter months can be considered the island's low season. From October to December, Kauai experiences slightly higher rainfall, which can lead to more overcast days.

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Kauai is the winner It has a variety of views and terrain to see. Rocky coastlines, beautiful beaches, lush jungles, and mountains and valleys. There is so much to see and do.

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SUVs on Kauai With an SUV, you'll be able to navigate most of the island's roads. Another advantage of an SUV is that they are widely available for rent on the island. Many rental companies offer a range of SUVs at affordable rates, so you can easily find one that suits your needs and budget.

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The most spectacular place to visit on Kauai is without a doubt Waimea Canyon. This 10-mile-long, one mile-wide, and 3,000-feet deep gorge is sure to take your breath away. There is a reason why the canyon is on every Kauai bucket list.

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The West Side of the island, the leeward coast of Kauai, is drier and the mountains in the center of the island block the rest of Kauai from the rain. This is one of the least visited parts of the island, excluding the sights along Highway 550 (like Waimea Canyon and Kokee State Park).

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Peace and Quiet: While Kaua?i is a popular tourist destination, it is generally less crowded and more laid-back than Maui. This makes it a great choice for travelers looking for a quieter, more relaxed vacation.

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Another famous location of Kauai, the Tree Tunnel Road is another amazing sight to see. The road is covered with tons of eucalyptus trees surrounding both sides of the road and over the road. Beginning off the side of Highway 520, this drive sets the perfect scene for a drive into Kauai's south shore region.

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Having a car at your fingertips on Kauai makes all the difference in your island experience. Kaui has one major thoroughfare — the Kuhio Highway — and it takes just under 3 hours to travel from the North Shore's Haena to the West Side's Polihale.

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Embark on a captivating journey through Kauai's rich history with our 20-mile scenic Hop on hop off Kauai Tour. Experience the birthplace and cherished playground of the esteemed kings, immersing yourself in the local heritage that has shaped this remarkable destination.

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With much of the Aloha State easing its travel restrictions, visitor numbers — and rental car prices — are skyrocketing. During the pandemic, rental car companies were forced to sell vehicles and thin out their fleets when a lack of visitors left them with nowhere to park all of the unused cars.

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