Last Updated on September 24, 2024 by Jade and Deeshen

Are you wondering what to do in Kauai on your last day? Have a late flight and want to maximize your trip? We live in Hawaii and have traveled to Kauai 5+ times, and let us tell you… KAUAI IS HEAVEN ON EARTH. It’s called the Garden Isle for a good reason!

As local and Hawaii travel writers, we’ve curated a list of the best things to do on your last day Kauai to top off your unforgettable Kauai vacation. From witnessing the incredible waterfall at the Waimea Canyon to watching birds at Kilauea Lighthouse – there’s so much you can do!

You can expect our recommendations to be on Kauai outdoor activities, beaches, waterfalls, and beautiful views to connect with nature – because that’s what you came to Kauai for!

What you WON’T find on this list is… we’re not going to recommend shopping indoors or something you can easily do back home.

Readers also love our free Hawaii packing list (the one I wish I had when I first visited Hawaii)!

But first, here are the best tours for Kauai: (yes, you should book in advance and early in your trip!)

• ⭐Kauai: Na Pali Coast Full-Day Boat Tour – Seeing the Napali coast by boat is a must-do in Hawaii! (We LOVED this!) In this tour, you’ll visit see the most beautiful mountain ranges in Hawaii, explore caves by boat, and snorkeling at the Forbidden Isle of Niihau.
  
  
• ⭐Kauai: Best Luau with Buffet Dinner – Kauai’s award-winning luau with graceful hula dancers, traditional fire knife dancing, artisan craft fair, lei greeting, and a buffet!
  
  
• ⭐Kauai: Best Helicopter Tour – See the impressive Jurassic Falls, the expansive Waimea Canyon, and the dramatic cliffs of the Na Pali Coast.

Best things do on Your Last Day in Kauai

Read on for the best outdoor activities in Kauai that are also time friendly for your last day, so that you can easily reach the airport in time for your flight back home.

Your Last Day on Kauai #1 – Waimea Canyon

Visiting Sunrise at Waimea Canyon is one of the most serene experiences you can have on the island. Witness the vibrant hues of the canyon as the sun casts its golden light upon the rugged terrain.

There are three “official” lookout spots from which you can view the Waimea Canyon: the official Waimea Canyon lookout (just past Mile Marker 10 on Hwy. 550); the Puu Ka Pele lookout (a smaller lookout near mile marker 13 on Hwy. 550); and Puu Hinahina Lookout (between mile markers 13-14 on Hwy. In the winter, you’ll see incredible stream.

Waimea Canyon, also known as the “Grand Canyon” of the Pacific was created by the collapse of a volcano that formed the island of Kauai. Lava and rainwater continue to erode the canyon.

If time allows, stop by the Red Dirt Waterfall, Kalalau Lookout, Pu’u O Kila Lookout, or the Hohonu Awawa Lookout for some great views!

Just remember, Waimea Canyon is an hour’s drive from Lihue airport, so only visit if you have a late afternoon or evening flight. Budget at least 1.5 hours to return to Lihue airport as there’s only one route to the airport.

Readers also love our guides on ways how you can visit Hawaii ethically, and is Kauai safe to visit right now.

Your Last Day on Kauai #2 – Poipu Beach

Visit Poipu Beach, one of the most famous beaches in South Kauai. It’s known as one of the rare places in the world where Hawaiian Green Sea Turtles, also know as Honu, who can travel between the spiritual world and the physical world.

You might also be interested in learning the honu spiritual meaning and what you can learn from their wisdom! And if you’re visiting Oahu after Kauai, check out our guide on where to see turtles in Oahu.

Budget at least 40 minutes to drive back from the airport.

Your Last Day on Kauai #3 – Kilauea Point National Wildlife Refuge and Kilauea Lighthouse

For nature enthusiasts, a trip to Kīlauea Point National Wildlife Refuge is a must. Located on the northern-most point of the main Hawaiian islands, this refuge offers spectacular views from atop a 180-foot ocean bluff.

Reservations are required, and we highly recommend reserving your timeslot at least 3 days before.

Marvel at rare seabirds like the red-footed booby and great frigate bird as they soar effortlessly above the cliffs.

Don’t forget to keep an eye out for the Hawaiian goose, also known as nēnē, Hawaii’s state bird!

Your Last Day on Kauai #4 – Watch the Sunrise

You can watch the sunrise anywhere from the EAST side of the island. Anywhere from Anini Beach to Kapa’a to Lihue. Our favorite spots are Lydgate Beach Park and Anini Beach.

Be sure to arrive at the sunrise point at least 40 minutes before sunrise, to allow enough time for parking and the sunrise colors are most vibrant 30 minutes prior to sunrise! If you’re crunched on time in the morning, just pull off to the side of the road anywhere on the east side highway where you can get a clear view of the ocean.

If you’re visiting Oahu after Kauai, also check out our Oahu sunrise guide for the best places to watch sunrise on Oahu.

Your Last Day on Kauai #5 – Anini Beach

After a morning of exploration, unwind at Anini Beach. Whether you prefer to relax on the golden sands, take a refreshing swim in the crystal-clear waters, or snorkel among vibrant coral reefs, Anini Beach has something for everyone.

The Polynesians created a thriving community in Waimea Canyon. Readers also love our guide on who founded Hawaii and led to its discovery!

Your Last Day on Kauai #6 – Chase Waterfalls! Visit ‘Opaeka’a Falls

Did you know you can see waterfalls without hiking in Kauai? ‘Opaeka’a Falls is one of the most accessible waterfalls and the views are simply incredible. Opaekaa Falls is believed to be a sacred site associated with ancient Hawaiian legends and stories.

If you want to learn more about Hawaiian spirituality, check out our articles on lessons from a Hawaii Kahuna, highly revered spiritual healers and the symbolism of Hawaiian Honu.

It’s free and you can park your car right next to the viewpoint platform, and it’s only a 3 minute drive from Wailua River State Park and a 15 minute drive from the airport.

Your Last Day on Kauai #7 – Hanalei Bay

Hanalei Pier and Hanalei Bay boasts some of the most beautiful views on the island and so many outdoor activities.

Choose your adventure: Lounge on the beach or indulge in water activities like SUP paddle boarding or surfing. Be sure to make a quick stop at Hanalei Bay Lookout for the gorgeous views!

After working up an appetite, head to Cafe Tumeric for Hibiscus Ginger Tea with some Indian food, Federico’s Fresh Mex Cuisine for tacos, or Hanalei Bread Company for a delicious grilled cheese sandwich!

Your Last Day on Kauai #8 – Lydgate Beach Park

Enjoy a relaxing day at Lydgate Beach Park with a leisurely bike ride along the coastline, or simply get out on the beach to swim! This sandy beach is absolutely stunning and a perfect way to spend a romantic and relaxing afternoon.

With its convenient location just a 10-minute drive from the airport, Lydgate Beach Park is the ideal spot for a stress-free farewell to Kauai.

Your Last Day on Kauai #9 – Hawaiian Organic Noni Farm Tour

Join a fascinating tour at Hawaiian Organic Noni Farm, where you’ll learn about the incredible health benefits of noni, a native Hawaiian fruit and superfood. Join a free tour and discover the farm’s resident birds, diverse vegetation, sustainable farming practices, and the fascinating Albatross Hawaiian birds!

The farm offers free tours 3x a week on Monday, Wednesdays and Fridays from 10AM-12:30AM.

Hearing Steve, the owner of Hawaiian Organic Noni Farm, speak about the stories of Kauai and the Albatross birds was simply incredible! Although you won’t be able to see the birds, they share the yearly Albatross videos where you can see how the Albatross fly all the way from Alaska to Hawaii to mate and nest! They even share videos of the baby Albatross whom are born on the farm, and they are just precious.

Listening to the stories was quite a spiritual experience and we only wish we got to stay longer! It is a family owned business; it was so nice meeting Steve and his son who were so passionate about Noni. This farm and is only a 30 minute drive from the airport.

Be sure to reserve your free tour in advance and prepare to be captivated by Steve’s stories! (if you forget to reserve, it’s totally fine to show up on the day of – just be sure to show up by 9:45am)

Your Last Day on Kauai #10 – Cliff Views from Princeville or Hanalei

In addition to these five experiences, don’t forget to take some time to relax at your Airbnb. Whether you’re staying in Princeville or another part of the island, soaking in the tranquil surroundings and enjoying activities like meditation or birdwatching can be the perfect way to unwind before your departure.

Please note, the roads on Princeville are private. If you want to spend the majority of your time in the Northshore of Kauai, Princeville is a fantastic place to stay. If you’re not staying in Princville, you can still experience the views by visiting Neighbors coffee shop or getting an acai bowl at Nourish Hanalei.

Your Last Day on Kauai #11 – Indulge in Kauai’s Cafes, Food and Acai Bowls!

We’re always so impressed at Kauai’s culinary scene because Kauai has some of the BEST cafes and restaurants out of all the Hawaiian islands! There’s just something about Kauai that attracts some of the best chefs in the world from fancy restaurants to the best brunch spots!

Treat yourself to a flavorful meal at Alisa Sushi and Thai Bistro (our favorite Thai restaurant among all the Hawaiian islands!), where you’ll savor authentic Thai cuisine made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. It’s the perfect way to end your Kauai adventure on a high note.

The Bottom Line: There are so many Fun Things to do on your Last Day in Kauai!

We hope you found these unforgettable ways to spend your last day in Kauai helpful! Kauai is one of the best islands to travel in Hawaii whether you’re seeking an adventurous or romantic couples getaway, or seeking deeper cultural or spiritual experiences. Book your trip, pack your bags, and get ready for an unforgettable journey in paradise!

Looking to pair your Kauai trip with another island? Oahu is the best island to pair with Kauai where you can see the best sunrises compared to any other Hawaiian island and Hawaiian sea turtles.