How to Spend Spring Break on Kauai

If your dream spring break includes lounging on palm-lined beaches, ocean adventures, and gorgeous tropical scenery, Kauai covers all the bases. The laid-back Garden Isle is undeveloped compared to other Hawaiian hot spots and makes a great option for families. Here are your best bets. 

Catch Some Waves on Hanalei Bay

Shallow water and small waves make Kauai’s Hanalei Bay on the North Shore a perfect place to learn to surf. Book a group or private lessons to get an overview of surfing safety and then practice basic moves such as paddling, standing up, and balancing in a low-stress setting. 

Snorkel Among Green Sea Turtles

There's nothing quite like swimming alongside a Hawaiian green sea turtle. These gentle giants of the reef often can be seen at Kauai’s top snorkeling spots, from Tunnels Beach and Queen’s Bath on the North Shore to Lawai Beach near Koloa.

Zipline Through the Treetops

Get an adrenaline rush plus aerial views of Kauai’s rain-soaked tropical forests on a zipline tour. Fly superhero-style or upside down on the island’s longest ziplines near Koloa, or soar above the historic Kipu Ranch. 

See the Na Pali Coast from a Catamaran

There are no roads to reach Kauai’s most spectacular scenery—the sea cliffs, spires, and valleys of the Na Pali Coast. Instead, admire the view on a catamaran cruise that sails by the landscape. Many tours include snorkeling stops, or you can opt for a sunset dinner cruise if you prefer not to get wet. 

Party at a Traditional Hawaiian Luau

Celebrate spring break in true island style at a family-friendly Hawaiian luau. Most luaus include a feast of specialties such as pig roasted in a pit oven called an imu, mahi mahi, and fresh fruit, followed by a show featuring traditional Polynesian dancers, drumming, and flame twirling.