Things to Do in Kapa'a

Located on the east side of Kauai, Kapa’a is a charming beachside community brimming with history and things to do. From guided secret waterfall tours to authentic luaus, Kapa’a, which is the Hawaiian adjective for “solid,” has it all. Whether you’re relocating to the island of Kauai or just visiting, finding the perfect activity to complete your Hawaiian adventure is easier than ever. Here are the best things to do in Kapa'a.

 

The very popular Old Kapa’a Town Art Walk is held on the first Saturday of every month from 5 pm to 9 pm. It is free to walk through the event, which stretches from the First Hawaiian Church to Kela’s Glass. Enjoy free live music and plenty of art displays as you walk along. If you’re feeling hungry, food trucks provide tasty options, most of which are made from locally grown ingredients. You can also shop for crafts and souvenirs made by local artisans.

 

Sleeping Giant Trail is a three-and-a-half-mile trail located near Kapa’a. Named after a local legend that tells the story of a giant who overly feasted at a party and never woke up, the trail is now a popular spot for hiking. Snap pictures and sample Kauai’s exotic plant and bird life during your hike. The hike, which is an out-and-back trail, includes scrambling portions and is generally considered a challenging route. Dogs are also welcome on the trail.

Named the “best luau on Kauai,” the Smith Family Garden Luau honors the Hawaiian spirit of aloha with traditional food, music, and dance. Starting over 50 years ago, four generations of the Smith family have helped keep the event alive and well. Enjoy a delicious feast of Hawaiian offerings, including kalua pig roasted in an underground oven. While you eat, you’ll also be treated to traditional Hawaiian music and dances, including Tahitian drum dances and a Samoan fire knife dance. The Smith Family Garden Luau is truly an event that the whole family will love.

 

Take a trip along the Wailua River in this guided kayak tour from Kayak Adventures. During your tour, you’ll experience a tropical garden paradise filled with palms, ferns, and flowers. Paddle by the cultural Kamokila Village to find a true Hawaiian civilization dating back to the 17th century. After docking your kayak, your tour guide will lead you on a short trek through the Wailua rainforest to find the enchanting Uluwehi Waterfall. This amazing waterfall descends from a height of 125 feet and empties into a natural pool. Here you can take a dip in the pool and explore refreshing waters that are only accessible by foot. This adventure is sure to delight people of all ages.

Big Wave Dave’s is a dive bar in Kapa’a that boasts a diverse menu of American cuisine and delicious drinks. Open until 2 am nightly, this is a great spot to party into the night. Popular favorites include short rib grilled cheese, Hong Kong tacos, and craft lobster rolls. Big Wave Dave’s also offers deals during happy hour and a brunch menu that should not be missed. If you’re looking for a fun night out, Big Wave Dave’s will not disappoint.

Held every Wednesday starting at 3 pm, the Kapa’a Sunshine Market is a collection of local farmers and ranchers selling locally grown and sourced products. Nearly 100 farmers regularly turn up at the market weekly, ranging from backyard farmers to professional farmers. It should be noted that popular vendors at the market typically sell out within 10 to 15 minutes of the event opening.

 

Offering a fresh take on shopping, NoKa Fair is an open-air shopping center located on top of a boardwalk. This up-and-coming center features 19 brightly-colored shipping containers repurposed into shopping stalls. Stroll along the boardwalk to find unique gifts and locally-made Kauai products. There is also a farm-to-table dining experience available here, as well as a farmer’s market.

Kapa’a Town Park is a beautiful park in Kapa’a that serves as an excellent spot to take a break and relax. Enjoy a picnic lunch with your family, or throw a Frisbee around for more excitement. To really experience the park, lie back on the soft grass and look up at the island of clouds passing overhead. This park is also the site of the Kapa’a Farmers Market, which occurs every Wednesday at 3 pm.

Kapa’a Beach Park is the heart of Kapa’a with its white sandy beach and refreshing surf. Locals spend their days soaking up the rays of sunshine and cooling off in the water. Popular activities include beach fishing, jogging, swimming, picnics, and strolls along the sand. Public restrooms and showers are available, as well as picnic tables and BBQ grills. There is also parking available right off the highway. It should be noted that there is no lifeguard on duty here.

From art walks to authentic luaus, Kapa’a on the island of Kauai has everything you need to complete your Hawaiian adventure. While the list above covers most of the top activities in the area, there is still more to discover. If you’re looking for more things to do in Kapa’a, then contact a local real estate agent. Ilona Coffey is a local realtor with years of experience on the island of Kauai. Over the years, she has helped numerous clients find the Hawaiian home of their dreams. Using her knowledge of the local market, Ilona knows what it takes to secure a great deal on a property. If you’re relocating to the area, contact her today to start your Hawaiian adventure.