No items found.

Best Hiking Trails in Kaua’i

Our guide to exploring popular and lesser-known trails on Hawaii's Garden Isle


With more trails than stoplights, Kaua’i is a far cry from the bustle of Waikiki or romantic resort life of Maui’s west coast. “The Garden Isle” is best known for its natural and untouched beauty, making it our favorite island for the adventurous and outdoor-minded traveler. Thus, it should come as no surprise that many members of the Switchback Travel team have spent time on Kaua’i, logging trail miles on the lush east side and the dramatic N? Pali Coast, up to the rain-soaked Alaka’i Swamp and into the depths of Waimea Canyon. In fact, we’ve hiked every single trail on this list (how’s that for boots on the ground!?), which range from popular tracks to lesser-known—but must-do—gems. Before you head out, make sure to scan the hiking logistics below the picks for important information regarding culture, weather, reservations, gear, and more.

If your interested in learning more, you can find the complete article written by Jenny Abegg here.

LAST UPDATED

December 3, 2023

Written by
Photo thumbnail Blog Author

Switch Back Travel

Media Mentions from Switch Back Travel

Authentic gear reviews and travel guides for the modern adventurer.

Explore More Content

Media Mentions

Lucky for us trail-goers, Amazon’s Big Spring Sale has hundreds of hiking products on sale, and here are 15 of the best deals to stock up for this season’s outdoor adventures.

Travel + Leisure
Media Mentions from Travel + Leisure

Media Mentions

Lastly, before receiving Sawyer filters here, Sinchu Al-Haggi, a village of 9 compounds and 121 residents relied exclusively on drinking straight from these 2 open wells.

Water Charity

Media Mentions

In the meantime, bring your baggage, so that when you are ready, you can learn to let go and carry your weight. Trust me, you’ll unpack things in due time when it’s all done.

Ben Kirkland