Ep. 140: Planning Your First Trip to Kauai? Here’s 7 Must-Know Travel Tips Before Visiting

First Time to Kauai

[00:00:00] Bryan Murphy: In this episode, you’ll discover the seven critical mistakes people make when planning their first trip, Toku, and exactly how to avoid them. So your vacation is stress free and unforgettable.

[00:00:13] Bryan Murphy: Aloha and welcome to Hawaii’s Best, the podcast that helps you discover the best of Hawaii. Here you’ll get travel tips, the latest news and everything you need to plan an unforgettable trip to Hawaii.

[00:00:27] Bryan Murphy: Aloha. I’m Brian, dad of three and a certified Hawaii destination expert and your guide to the best of Hawaii. Having visited Hawaii over 30 so times, honestly, I. Lost track. But in this episode, I’ll help you discover exactly when to book your rental car to avoid costly mistakes and how choosing the right side of Kauai can make or break your family’s vacation in simple ways your family can support local businesses and enjoy authentic Hawaiian experiences.

[00:00:56] Bryan Murphy: Welcome to episode one 40 of Hawaii’s Best, and on this show we often feature local businesses and voices who share their unique perspectives on visiting Hawaii, helping you travel with aloha Today, it’s just me and I’ll be sharing some of my experience traveling to Hawaii many times. And we’ll be talking about seven must no tips to make your family’s first visit to ye smooth, stress-free and memorable.

[00:01:22] Bryan Murphy: Planning your family’s first trip to YE can easily become overwhelming with all the information out there, and especially if you’re not sure where to start. And by the end of this episode, you’ll know if you’re making any of the most common planning mistakes and more importantly, exactly how to avoid them.

[00:01:40] Bryan Murphy: In a previous episode that I’ll link in the show notes below, we did an overview of Kauai and what to expect and what to know when visiting Kauai. This episode is based on more tips on planning your first trip to Kauai. Now you’ve probably heard Kauai call the garden aisle. It has lush, breathtaking landscapes, incredible greenery, beautiful beaches.

[00:02:05] Bryan Murphy: And a genuinely relaxed Hawaiian vibe. I remember my first trip to Kauai and landing at the airport in Lihue, and it was like an airport I’ve never been to before. You know, we puddle hopped over from Honolulu and Lihue just has a different feel. It’s really cool when you come in and it’s just got this laid back.

[00:02:24] Bryan Murphy: Some of it’s inside, some of it’s outside small airport. It was really cool coming into that airport for the first time. Now these tips aren’t just based on my opinion and experiences though. I’ll share some of those, but they’re backed by recent research, local insights and real data from trusted sources like the Hawaii Tourism Authority and the Hawaii Visitors Bureau.

[00:02:45] Bryan Murphy: Alright, let’s get to tip number one is book your rental car early. Like early, early. Kauai isn’t the kind of destination where you can just land at the airport and easily find cars waiting for you. It’s really quite the opposite actually. If you wait too long, you risk not only paying potentially twice as much or more, but also potentially not getting a car at all.

[00:03:10] Bryan Murphy: In 2023 alone, the island had over 1.35 million visitors, according to the HTA, the Hawaii Tourism Authority. And because Kaia is the smallest of the main islands, it has fewer car rentals available compared to Oahu and Maui. Demand goes way up During peak travel seasons like summer break and winter holidays, this demand leads to shortages and shortages mean the car rentals can and do raise prices significantly.

[00:03:41] Bryan Murphy: I. Recent research from kayak.com shows rental car prices on Kauai jump between a hundred and 200% if you book at the last minute during these busy seasons. So that means the same car that might have cost your family $400 could easily end up costing 800 or even $1,200 just because you waited until the last few weeks to book.

[00:04:04] Bryan Murphy: To avoid this, definitely would recommend you book your rental car between three to six months ahead of your trip, probably closer to that six month mark, especially if you’re traveling in June, July, August, or around the holidays in December, early January. Booking early not only saves your family money.

[00:04:23] Bryan Murphy: It also guarantees you’ll actually have transportation to explore the island freely. Something you’ll definitely need and definitely want on Kauai because the public transportation isn’t as robust as if you’re staying in Honolulu on ahu. Tip number two is understand Kauai’s weather patterns. Kauai is a small island, but the weather can vary dramatically depending on.

[00:04:49] Bryan Murphy: Where you are and what side of the island. So one side of the island can be very sunny and clear while the other side can be rainy and windy. In fact, mount Y-L-A-L-A located near the center of Koi averages over 450 inches of rain each year. Make it at one of the wettest spots on the planet. That means the north shore areas like Princeville or ha lei tend to be lush, green and rainy.

[00:05:14] Bryan Murphy: And on the other hand, south Shore, like Poipu is usually sunny and dry and calm. So knowing this ahead of time helps you plan your family’s activities even better. So if the forecast calls for rain on the North Shore, you can pack up your gear and head south. Usually poi PO’s sunny beaches are always the safest bet when weather gets unpredictable.

[00:05:37] Bryan Murphy: Tip number three, respect local culture. In practice responsible tourism. With limited resources, a fragile ecosystem, and communities deeply connected to their cultural traditions. It’s actually a real issue for locals and Hawaiians living on Kauai. According to a recent HTA survey 68. Percent of Kauai residents express concerns about visitors who aren’t sensitive to local culture or careful with the environment.

[00:06:07] Bryan Murphy: One of the ways to travel responsibly is simply by learning a few basic Hawaiian phrases, words like Aloha. Hello, Mahalo. Thank you. And malama ina caring for the land can go a long way with locals. It’s also important to always clean up after yourself, whether you’re going out on the trail or on one of the beaches.

[00:06:27] Bryan Murphy: These simple actions help preserve Kauai’s beauty and show respect for the community you’re visiting. It’s important to wherever we go to show Aloha. A smile. A grading can go a long way in making your trip to Kauai even better. Tip number four, plan your activities and reservations early. A common mistake first time visitors make is assuming they can just show up and easily book a popular activity or attraction.

[00:06:54] Bryan Murphy: But the reality is Kauai is a little different. Many of the best experiences require reservations weeks or even months. In advance. A recent Expedia Insights report found that 85% of first time visitors underestimate how early you need to book popular activities. So things like luaus, Nepali coasts, boat tours, and helicopter tours regularly sell out weeks ahead, sometimes months, especially during busy seasons.

[00:07:20] Bryan Murphy: One of Kauai’s most famous state parks and a state park now requires reservations just to enter. If you wait until the last minute, chances are high, you’ll miss out to avoid disappointment. Book the must do activities for your family four to eight weeks before your trip. By reserving early, you’ll guarantee your family won’t miss out, and you’ll save yourself some headache of scrambling the last minute to find backup plans, and that’s never fun.

[00:07:46] Bryan Murphy: But you don’t wanna over schedule two. So get those must-dos. Maybe you want to do a luau or a special boat tour, something like that. You know, get those main ones, but then don’t overbook your itinerary as well, because that can be just as stressful. Alright, tip number five. Choose the right side of the island for your family.

[00:08:08] Bryan Murphy: First time visitors often struggle with this, and it makes sense because Kauai isn’t big, but each side of the island has its own pros and cons. According to a recent TripAdvisor travel form data, about 65% of first time visitors feel unsure about where to stay. So let’s go ahead and quickly break it down.

[00:08:26] Bryan Murphy: The North Shore, like I mentioned earlier, areas like Haole and Princeville is famous for its stunning scenery. I mean, you got beautiful beaches, lush mountains, but it also rains more frequently up on the North shore, and there are fewer amenities as well. If you want to hike or enjoy lush rainforest views and don’t mind occasional rain, this could definitely be a great fit for you.

[00:08:47] Bryan Murphy: The South Shore probably a little bit more popular, more re resorts, especially Poipu is sunnier and drier. It also has calmer waters, more resorts and plenty of family friendly beaches and restaurants as well. So it’s probably the easiest choice for families with younger kids. I definitely would recommend staying on the South Shore.

[00:09:06] Bryan Murphy: The east side around Kapa is similar. It offers more budget friendly lodging options and is conveniently located halfway between north and south. It’s a good compromise, especially if you plan to explore all around the island. Lastly, the west side, near y Mea is quiet. It’s remote. It’s great for exploring during the day.

[00:09:26] Bryan Murphy: You know, you get a day trip to Yia Canyon, but it has fewer accommodations and amenities. Probably not ideal for an extended family stay. So for most families, I usually recommend sail on the South Shore, POI P or East Side Kapa. Both areas are pretty convenient, good weather, and you’ve got plenty of amenities to keep your vacation relaxing and enjoyable.

[00:09:50] Bryan Murphy: Tip number six, support local businesses for authentic family experiences. One of the simplest, yet probably most impactful, memorable things your family can do when staying in Hawaii or. Especially Kauai is choosing to spend your money at locally owned businesses. It’s not just good for your vacation experience, but it definitely benefits the local community as well.

[00:10:12] Bryan Murphy: Research from the American Independent Business Alliance shows that spending that local businesses creates three times more economic benefit for the community than spinning at big chains or larger tour operators. If you can definitely support local. And beyond the economic benefits, local businesses offer unique experiences that you won’t find anywhere else.

[00:10:35] Bryan Murphy: That local touch, they share authentic Hawaiian culture, meaningful stories and personal connections that I. Bigger companies often can’t match. So this could be as simple as you know for your family. This might mean checking out farmer’s markets like the Hoole Farmer’s Market or the Kauai Community Market.

[00:10:53] Bryan Murphy: In La Hui you’ll find fresh produce, handmade products and get to meet the local farmers and artisans and get to talk story a little bit, which is kind of cool. You can also try booking your tours with activities through locally owned operators. Whether it’s snorkeling, hikes, or cultural tours. Choosing a local company gives you a richer, more personal experience, and it’s those connections that you’ll take home with you, those connections with those who live Kauai.

[00:11:22] Bryan Murphy: The final tip, and probably maybe one of the most important tips is prioritize safety on your outdoor adventures. Kauai is beautiful, but it’s also. Can be unpredictable, dangerous, especially when it involves the ocean or hiking trails. According to the Kauai Fire Department Ocean Safety Division, the island averages more than 200 ocean rescues per year.

[00:11:45] Bryan Murphy: The ocean in Kauai can look calm, it can look inviting, but there are and can be strong currents and sudden waves. So checking daily ocean conditions and carefully following any posted beach signs can make all the difference. In keeping your family safe. And another note just about beaches is always swim.

[00:12:03] Bryan Murphy: If you’re gonna get on the water, always swim at beaches where there is a lifeguard stand that just ensures your safety for yourself and for your family. I. The same caution applies to Kauai’s hiking trails. Trails can get slippery fast, and like I mentioned, it can get pretty wet in Kauai, especially along cliffs or near waterfalls.

[00:12:23] Bryan Murphy: In fact, there’s about 150 to 200 hiking injuries per year on Kauai trails alone. Choose hiking trails that fit your family’s fitness and experience levels. If it’s raining or if storms are forecasted. Save the hiking for another day if you’re going to the beach. One phrase that the Hawaii Lifeguard Association always likes to say is, if in doubt, don’t go out and really heat to that as well.

[00:12:47] Bryan Murphy: So your safety and your family safety matter more than any photo opportunity or sightseeing. Adventure. All right, there you have it. The seven essential tips every family needs to know before visiting Kauai for the very first time. And just a quick recap. Number one, book your rental car super early to save money and headaches.

[00:13:05] Bryan Murphy: Number two, understand kauai’s unique weather patterns so you can plan your days wisely. Number three, show respect for local culture by practicing responsible tourism and learning a few Hawaiian phrases like Aloha, mahalo, and malama ina. Number four, reserve your must do activities. Weeks to months in advance.

[00:13:25] Bryan Murphy: Number five, choose the best side of the island for your family’s needs and interests and budget. Number six, support local businesses whenever possible for truly meaningful experiences. And number seven, always prioritize safety in the ocean and along UA East Trails. I hope these insights help you and your family enjoy a smooth, stress-free and unforgettable visit to Kauai.

[00:13:48] Bryan Murphy: And if you found today’s episode valuable, please take a quick second to follow the podcast right on the app that you’re listening to right now. That way you’ll never miss an episode, and you’ll be up to date on the best of Hawaii’s travel tips. And until next time, as always. Live with Aloha

[00:14:09] Bryan Murphy: Mala for listening to this episode of Hawaii’s. Best to stay up to date on future episodes. Hit follow on your podcast app. Hawaii’s Best is a production of shore break media group with editing by easy podcast solutions and music courtesy of our friends. Stick figure.