Kilauea HawaiiATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Kilauea, Hawaii.
1. Hawaiian Organic Noni
SUSTAINABLE ORGANIC FARM
Hawaiian Organic Noni offers visitors an engaging farm tour through lush orchards where guests learn about sustainable agriculture and the healing properties of the noni fruit. Visitors can explore the serene landscapes while unraveling the secrets of organic farming practices. The experience provides both educational value and a peaceful connection with Hawaii's natural environment.
2. Sugarloaf Pineapple Farm
FAMILY-OWNED PINEAPPLE EXPERIENCE
Sugarloaf Pineapple Farm provides an interactive tour in a family-owned setting where visitors can participate in planting and picking activities. Guests enjoy tastings of the farm's signature low-acidity pineapples while learning about cultivation methods and history. The experience is topped off with frozen pineapple treats enjoyed amidst the beautiful, lush fields.
3. Garden Island Chocolate
TROPICAL CHOCOLATE TASTING
Garden Island Chocolate offers a delectable tasting tour showcasing locally grown and produced Hawaiian chocolate. Visitors learn about the chocolate-making process from bean to bar while sampling a variety of tropical-infused chocolate creations. The experience provides insight into sustainable cacao farming practices unique to Kauai's climate and terrain.
4. Kilauea Lighthouse and Wildlife Refuge
HISTORIC MARITIME LANDMARK
Kilauea Lighthouse stands as a historic maritime landmark offering spectacular coastal views and opportunities to observe diverse seabird species. Built in 1913, this restored lighthouse provides visitors with insights into Hawaii's maritime history and conservation efforts. The surrounding wildlife refuge serves as a protected habitat for native birds including red-footed boobies, Hawaiian geese, and albatrosses.
5. Historic Kilauea Town
CHARMING CULTURAL HUB
Historic Kilauea Town presents a charming collection of historic buildings, local shops, and cultural sites reflecting the area's rich heritage. Visitors can wander through the quaint streets exploring boutique stores, art galleries, and local eateries housed in preserved structures. The town offers a glimpse into plantation-era Hawaii while showcasing contemporary island culture and community life.
6. Stone Dam and Scenic Walks
TRANQUIL NATURE TRAILS
Stone Dam features a series of scenic walking paths alongside historic water management structures dating back to plantation days. Visitors can enjoy peaceful strolls through lush vegetation while observing native wildlife and the engineering marvel of the stone dam system. The well-maintained trails offer varying difficulty levels, making them accessible for different fitness capabilities while providing serene natural experiences.
7. Hanalei Spirits Tour and Tasting
LOCAL CRAFT DISTILLERY
Hanalei Spirits offers visitors an immersive tour and tasting experience showcasing locally distilled spirits crafted using Hawaiian ingredients. Guests learn about traditional and modern distillation techniques while sampling various spirits that capture the essence of Kauai's tropical flavors. The facility provides insight into the art of spirit-making while highlighting the island's agricultural bounty and craftsmanship.
8. Na Aina Kai Botanical Gardens
SCULPTURAL GARDEN PARADISE
Na Aina Kai Botanical Gardens spans 240 acres featuring diverse plant collections, artistic sculptures, and a hardwood plantation showcasing Hawaii's horticultural diversity. Guided tours provide visitors with detailed information about the garden's thoughtful design, rare plant species, and artistic elements integrated throughout the landscape. The gardens offer a peaceful retreat where natural beauty and human creativity merge in a harmonious setting.
9. Anaina Hou Community Park
FAMILY-FRIENDLY RECREATIONAL SPACE
Anaina Hou Community Park serves as a vibrant community hub offering various recreational amenities including a unique mini-golf course, playgrounds, and hiking trails. Families particularly enjoy the facility's well-designed spaces that cater to multiple interests and age groups in a beautiful natural setting. The park regularly hosts community events and workshops that showcase local culture and sustainable practices.
10. Common Ground Kauai
SUSTAINABLE AGRICULTURE CENTER
Common Ground Kauai operates on a former guava plantation now transformed into an innovative hub for sustainable agriculture and community engagement. Visitors can enjoy farm-to-table dining experiences featuring ingredients grown on-site while learning about regenerative farming methods. The center regularly hosts educational programs and events aimed at promoting environmental stewardship and connection to local food systems.
11. Secret Falls
HIDDEN TROPICAL CASCADE
Secret Falls offers adventurous visitors a rewarding hiking destination featuring a picturesque waterfall nestled in Kauai's lush interior landscape. Reaching this natural wonder typically involves a combination of kayaking and hiking, adding to the sense of discovery and accomplishment. The falls create a perfect natural swimming area where visitors can cool off after their journey while surrounded by verdant tropical vegetation.
12. Kilauea Volcano
ACTIVE GEOLOGICAL WONDER
Kilauea Volcano stands as one of the world's most active volcanoes, offering visitors spectacular views of unique geological formations and sometimes flowing lava. The site holds deep significance in Hawaiian culture and natural history, featuring prominently in local mythology and traditions. Visitors can explore numerous hiking trails ranging from easy walks to challenging treks through varying landscapes including rainforests, deserts, and volcanic craters.
13. Kauai Chocolate Farm Tasting Tour
SWEET EDUCATIONAL EXPERIENCE
Kauai Chocolate Farm Tasting Tour provides visitors with an immersive journey through the chocolate-making process from tree to finished product. Participants sample various chocolate creations while learning about cultivation practices specific to Hawaii's tropical climate. The tour highlights sustainable farming methods and the unique characteristics that make Hawaiian chocolate distinct in the global market.
14. Fern Grotto Cruise
SCENIC RIVER JOURNEY
Fern Grotto Cruise takes visitors on a relaxing boat journey along the Wailua River to a unique natural lava-rock grotto draped with tropical ferns. The experience typically includes traditional Hawaiian music and dance performances that showcase the island's rich cultural heritage. Upon reaching the grotto, guests are treated to the site's natural acoustics and lush surroundings that create a magical atmosphere.
15. Hawaii Volcanoes National Park Flight
AERIAL VOLCANIC ADVENTURE
Hawaii Volcanoes National Park Flight provides a breathtaking helicopter journey over the ever-changing scenery of black sand beaches and active volcanic areas. Passengers witness the caldera of Kilauea volcano and the Pu'u'o'o volcanic cone from a perspective impossible to achieve from the ground. The aerial tour showcases both new and old lava fields, offering a comprehensive understanding of how these powerful natural forces continuously reshape the Hawaiian landscape.