This guide will show you how to plan the perfect 3 days in Kauai itinerary full of gorgeous beaches, gushing waterfalls, and red canyons on Hawaii’s Garden Island. We’ve also included tips like where to stay, what to pack, and how to visit Kauai on a budget.

Kauai’s misty waterfalls, verdant valleys, soaring sea cliffs, and stunning beaches just say “paradise.” This guide to the top things to do in Kauai will make sure you don’t miss any of the bucket list activities here, from epic hikes to thrilling helicopter tours to the best locally sourced coffee.

When you think of a Hawaii vacation, do you immediately see dollar signs? Since it's the northernmost of the major islands (and therefore more remote), Kauai, in particular, can empty wallets pretty quickly. Just like anywhere else, though, exercising control over what you spend makes a huge difference.