Summer in Kauai: Sunshine, Snorkeling, and Festive Luaus
Relaxing on Kalapaki Beach in Kauai
Summer in Kauai has a rhythm all its own. Long days, warm trade winds, and the unmistakable feeling of being on an adventure. On this trip, we brought the whole crew - three of our grown daughters, our granddaughter, and my mother. One night, we even wore matching luau outfits—cheesy in the best way—and leaned fully into the spirit of aloha. We shared many special moments on our trip and created memories that will last a lifetime.
The whole crew in Kauai
We stayed at the Marriott Kauai Lagoons – Kalanipu’u in a well-equipped three-bedroom villa overlooking the ocean. The villa offered space for everyone to relax and unwind, and the beautiful ocean view from our lanai quickly became a favorite gathering spot. Each morning began with coffee in hand, listening to the ocean and mapping out the day’s plans together.
Marriott Kaui Lagoons
Our time on the island was a blend of activity and ease. We wandered the lagoon trails near the resort, spotting birds like red-crested cardinals and black-crowned night herons, and of course, the ever-present chickens that made us laugh more than once.
The Great Egret
Smith’s Tropical Paradise
One day we explored Smith’s Tropical Paradise, a lush garden full of native plants, water features, and wildlife. Feeding the ducks and geese was a hit with everyone, and the garden paths led us through both Japanese and Polynesian landscapes. That evening we attended Luau Kalamaku, where the storytelling, music, and fire dancing captured all of our attention. It was colorful, festive, and full of heart.
The cast at Luau Kalamaku
A boat tour of the Nā Pali Coast with Holo Holo Charters was one of the more adventurous parts of our trip. The ocean was choppy that day and I had a fall on board, resulting in scuffed up knees, but the towering cliffs and deep sea caves were stunning, and the sunset on the return made it worth it. Even the less-than-perfect moments added texture to our experience, and the staff from Holo Holo Charters was wonderful.
Nā Pali Coast Tour
Another day brought us to Waimea Canyon, the stunning gorge that is often called the Grand Canyon of the Pacific. This magical destination has panormic views, hiking trails, and places to stop for a picnic.
On our drive back, we stopped at the Kauai Coffee Company for a tasting and picked up a few bags to bring home.
We also enjoyed a day trip and a guided shore snorkeling adventure with Kauai Zodiac Tours at Anini Beach, where we saw sea turtles and bright schools of fish.
Waimea Canyon State Park
Back at the villa, we kept things simple. Grilled dinners, a special birthday party and cake from Orly Patisserie for my husband and our youngest daughter, reading on the deck, and keychain-making by the pool with the resort staff. These small, everyday moments became some of the most meaningful.
Grilling Steaks at the Resort for a Birthday Dinner
Custom Birthday Cake from Orly Patisserie in Kauai
Before we left, we all gathered to share our favorite memories from the trip. Hearing everyone’s reflections was a reminder of what makes travel like this so valuable. It’s not just the place—it’s how it brings you together.
In upcoming posts, I’ll share more about the resort, the luau, our boat cruise, and our visit to Smith Family Garden. If you’re planning a family trip to Kauai, I hope our experience offers some inspiration.
Kauai in summer is full of warmth, color, and quiet magic. It’s a place that invites you to slow down and just be—and that’s exactly what we did.
You might also enjoy these articles:
