How To Travel To Kaua'i, Hawai'i More Mindfully
Enjoying the beauty of Hanakapi'ai Falls. Click on my photos to pin on Pinterest!
Kauai, Hawaii is one of the most magical places I’ve ever had the pleasure of visiting. The island radiates beauty, abundance, diversity, and positive energy and it’s important to keep it that way. Below are some helpful tips on how to visit Kauai more mindfully so you can enjoy your visit and leave a positive impact.
This post contains affiliate links. This means that if you make a purchase, I may receive a small commission at no additional cost to you. Erin Molstad is a participant in the Tripadvisor Affiliate Programs, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for me to earn fees by linking to tripadvisor.com and affiliated sites at no cost to you. I only recommend services I believe in and appreciate your support!
1. Support Local Businesses
There are so many amazing local businesses to support in Kauai. Some of my favorites are Holy Grail Donuts, Java Kai, and the Kauai Diner. There are also several wonderful farmers markets around the island where you can try local fruits and vegetables, pick up a gorgeous flower bouquet, grab a bite to eat, and even buy art from local artists. I visited Waipā farmers market in Hanalei on my visit and loved it!
2. Tip Service Workers Well
While you’re supporting the local businesses, make sure to tip the service workers well. This is money that goes straight to locals and Native Hawaiians who work in the industry. Make sure to bring extra cash so you can tip for other services other than just restaurants, like shuttle services and boat tours.
Volunteering with Surfrider Foundation Kaua'i Chapter to do Net Patrol
3. Volunteer
A great way to give back while visiting Kauai is to take some time to volunteer. There are many volunteer opportunities, like beach clean ups, native plant protection, community workday, or even make a donation to the Kauai Humane Society and take one of the shelter dogs out on a field trip for the day. We volunteered with Surfrider Foundation Kauai Chapter to do Net Patrol for an afternoon during our visit. We picked up plastic along a remote beach and cleared the commercial fishing gear that washes up to shore. This volunteering opportunity takes place every Wednesday afternoon and they are always looking for volunteers. You can sign up here!
Na Pali Region
4. Respect the Land & Wildlife
It’s incredibly important to respect the land and wildlife in Kauai. The “āina”, which is the Hawaiian word for “land”, is sacred and spiritual. You are a guest to the island. Please stay on the path while hiking. Do not go off paths and create your own. At the beginning of trails, you’ll find a spot to wipe your shoes, to prevent the spread of invasive species around Kauai’s delicate ecosystem. Do not remove rocks and sand from the beaches. It is legend that this brings bad luck, and you don’t want to mess with Pele. If you see a sea turtle or Hawaiian monk seal at the beach, keep your distance and this will ensure that you and the animals stay safe. While in the ocean, wear reef safe sunscreen. This helps to protect coral reefs and allows ocean life to thrive. Finally, leave no trace. It’s very simple. Anything you bring on a hiking trail or to the beach, you must pack out.
Native hibiscus flower
5. Follow the Rules
Following the rules goes hand in hand with respecting the land. Some rules that are important to follow in Kauai are making sure to only park in designated parking areas. This means no parking on the side of the road, where not allowed or blocking driveways of the locals. To keep trails from overcrowding and protected from erosion, make sure to get permits and entry passes where needed. One of our favorite hikes is the Kalalau Trail, starting at Ke’e Beach in Ha’ena State Park to the beautiful Hanakapi'ai Falls. This hike requires an entry pass, so make sure to plan ahead if you want to experience one of my favorite hikes of all time. Finally, stay off sacred land and do not trespass while exploring.
Beginning of Kalalau Trail
6. Stay Informed
The weather in Kauai can change quickly, especially in the mountains or in the ocean. Stay informed of the weather, because flash flooding can occur while on the trails and can be dangerous and even life threatening. While at the beach, stay aware of any ocean advisories and rip currents. People can get pulled out in the blink of an eye if they’re not careful. If you stay informed and don’t test the limits, you’ll be good to go.
View of Na Pali Coast with Makana Charters
7. Learn About Kaua'i’s History
Do a little research of Kauai’s history before your trip to help fully embrace the culture and beauty Kauai has to offer. While visiting, there are several museums to check out which are very informative, like Kōkeʻe Natural History Museum and Kauai Museum. Another fun way to learn more about Kauai's history is by taking a boat tour of the Na Pali Coast with Makana Charters, a native Hawaiian-owned family business. Their crew is incredibly knowledgeable and shared many great stories about their families, the history of Kauai, and the land.
Hiking with our reusable water bottles on Kalalau Trail
8. Be Sustainable
Be sustainable on your visit. A few easy ways to be sustainable is by bringing reusable water bottles, so you don’t have to buy single-use plastic. You should also turn lights off when not in use and open up windows instead of using air conditioning. Kauai is doing their part to be sustainable by banning polystyrene take out containers as well as plastic bags at stores. If you’re planning on doing any shopping, bring along a reusable bag. Doing this as well as volunteering and supporting local businesses is a great way to be a more mindful and sustainable tourist.
9. Respect Island Time
Leave the hustle and bustle behind, you’re on island time now. Don’t expect restaurants to be open all night. Many places close around 7pm, so the locals can enjoy their family time. You can make dinner reservations in advance if you’re worried about getting a spot at your favorite place. Expect traffic to be slow and plan for extra time getting to and from places, especially if you’re traveling from one end of the island to the other. Make sure to relax, you’re on vacation! You’ll miss the beautiful rainbows if you’re rushing everywhere. Take it all in, enjoy the scenery, and give grace.
Na Pali Coast from Kalalau Valley Lookout
10. Take Action to Protect
Finally, you can always take action to help protect Kauai and the environment. A few causes to donate to or take action on are Na Pali Coast ‘Ohana, Protect U.S. Waters from New Offshore Drilling, and Mālama Kauaʻi. I highly recommend checking these out.
Sidewalk sea turtle in Hanalei
Overall Thoughts
Kauai is such a special place. It’s truly one of a kind. There will always be a discussion on how ethical tourism is, not only to Hawaii but all over the world. Some say there is no good that comes from it, while others welcome it as long as you’re mindful and respectful. We are only on this planet for so long, I believe you should go out and explore it, learn new cultures, create new friendships, and give back every chance you get. Traveling can really open your mind, heighten your empathy, and make you appreciate the world and other people. If you’re lucky enough to get the opportunity to travel somewhere new, take it, and do so mindfully.
Camera used to document my travels: Canon EOS 5D Mark IV 35mm lens, Olympus Om-1 35mm film camera, and iPhone
