Famed for its incredible scenery and natural wonders such as Waimea Canyon and the Nā Pali Coast, Kaua‘i is heaven for those who love the great outdoors. The island definitely has its share of rainy days, particularly on the windward side (north and east). The leeward side (south and west) sees much less rain, but wet days do happen there too. In fact, Mount Wai‘ale‘ale is one the wettest places on earth, but without rain Kaua‘i might be called “The Desert Isle” instead of “The Garden Isle.” The weather can change quickly anywhere on Kaua‘i, but in Hawai‘i we consider rain a blessing. There are still plenty of fun and fascinating things to do in Kauai when it rains; here’s just a few.
Kaua‘i Indoor Activities
Leeward Side
If you find yourself wondering what to do in Kauai when it rains, Kaua‘i has several fascinating museums on the leeward side. For a good dose of Hawaiian culture and history, check out the Kaua‘i Museum. Learn all about Kaua‘i’s plantation days at Old Kōloa Town Historical Center, Grove Farm Homestead and Sugar Plantation Museum, and up by Waimea Canyon you can visit the Kokeʻe Natural History Museum. You can treat yourself to a spa day at The Spa at Ko‘a Kea Resort or at the Grand Hyattʻs Anara Spa, both in Pōʻipu. For an exciting and challenging time, head over to the Kauaʻi Escape Room in Līhuʻe.
Windward Side
If it’s raining on the windward side, and there is usually some precipitation almost every day, it’s a fairly safe bet that you’ll find sunshine somewhere on the leeward sides. Check the weather report online or just call a businees in Waimea and ask how the weather is there. If the rain is islandwide, there’s still plenty of things to do in Kauai when it rains on the windward side. Browse the art galleries and eclectic shops of Hanalei, or indulge in an ultra high-end spa day at the St. Regis Hotel’s Halele‘a Spa in Princeville. Eat your way through Hanalei by sampling something small at each restaurant, or cruise down to Kapa‘a and browse through the historic Coconut Marketplace, where you will find loads of shops, eateries, boutiques, and live entertainment.
When There’s Rain, There’s Rainbows
Wet days on Kaua‘i are perfect slowing down and enjoying food, shopping, and taking in museums or art galleries. Of course, you can watch rainbows over the ocean just pull on rain gear and brave the elements. If you still find yourself wondering what to do in Kauai when raining, contact us at ILoveHawaii today and let us help you put together a rainy day plan.
