16 Fun Things to Do in Kauai When it Rains
Kauai, an island paradise known for its beauty and tropical climate, can be quite a disappointment when it rains.
But don’t let a little precipitation damper your vacation! With a little bit of creativity, you can make the most of the rain and have a memorable time on the island.
Our guide to the best things to do in Kauai when it rains will ensure a fun-filled day, no matter the weather.
So pack your raincoat and get ready to explore this tropical island paradise, rain or shine!
1. Relax at a Spa
When it’s raining outside and you are looking for something to do, don’t despair – there are plenty of spas to try out!
The ANARA Spa at the Grand Hyatt Kauai is the perfect place for an unforgettable relaxation experience.
Their treatments feature island-fresh botanics and whether you opt for a massage, facial, or body treatment, you will undoubtedly be overflowing with serenity and rejuvenation once you’re done.
Or experience those authentic Hawaiian vibes you’ve been dreaming of at The Spa at Ko’a Kea and get pampered from head to toe with their wide range of treatments.
Get ready to be swept away into a blissful spa paradise!
2. Explore Your Hotel
Rain’s got you in a slump? Instead of moping around, explore your resort and take part in some group activities.
It may be your chance to learn how to play the ukulele or dance the hula. Maybe you could even roll up your sleeves and make some leis!
Or if that doesn’t tickle your fancy, take a dip in the pool – you’re bound to get wet anyway so you might as well embrace it.
3. Go on a Wild Ride
Even when the rain clouds roll in, there is still plenty to do in Kauai. Don’t let the wet weather dampen your spirit of adventure – why not hop aboard an ATV tour?
Zip past plantations and up to an active volcano as you go off-roading through the tropics!
Rain may bring a chill to the air, but with a tour guide full of enthusiasm guiding you, you can be sure that you’ll still feel the heat of Hawaii’s warm hospitality.
4. Experience a Luau
Get out of the rain and into the rhythms of Hawaii with a visit to Luau Kalamaku! Enjoy an imu roast pig ceremony, truly mouth-watering island cuisine, and a show that will leave you in awe.
The expertly choreographed performance includes everything from hula dancers to flame throwers.
So don your brightest jacket and get ready for a night of enchantment that’s sure to beat any rainy day blues.
Tip: Check out our guide on the best luaus to go to on Kauai.
5. Go Shopping
When the skies open up, take your opportunity for some serious shopping.
Wallow in the wide array of local handcrafted souvenirs, artworks, and all sorts of tasty treats.
If you’re in search of a family-friendly vibe, Coconut Marketplace provides hula shows and live music to keep everyone entertained.
For an alternative shopping experience with unique eateries, events and boutiques galore, Kukui Grove is Lihue’s go-to spot.
Feeling florally inspired? Look no further than Poipu Shopping Village for its chain of stores and restaurants set amongst beautiful blooms.
6. Check Out the Art Galleries
Rather than see the rain as an obstacle, use it as an opportunity to explore Kauai’s vibrant art scene.
Make your way through the island to discover local galleries like Halelea Gallery, Latitudes Gallery, and Aloha Images Gallery – that’ll sure put those drops of rain to shame!
7. Explore the Museums
The good news about getting rained out in Kauai is that there’s so much to do inside!
Take the Kauai Museum, for example: with every nook and cranny loaded with rich Hawaiian history, sounds like you’ll have plenty of time to reacquaint yourself with this amazing island paradise.
Make sure your museum itinerary also includes the Koke’e Natural History Museum. It’s not often the sun takes a break – make the most of it!
8. Book a Food Tour
Booking a food tour is the perfect way to enjoy the island’s unique local cuisine.
Sample artisan dishes on the south shore, explore coastal favorites and fresh ocean delights on the north shore, or discover traditional and modern flavors blended together in unexpected ways on the west shore.
With an experienced guide by your side, you can meet chefs, farmers and fellow foodies, no matter what Mother Nature throws at you.
9. Satisfy Your Sweet Tooth
For a truly unique experience, head to Princeville Botanical Gardens and prepare your taste buds for sweet indulgence when the skies are gray.
On this tropical tour of Kauai’s garden terraces and valley floor, get to know the native flora while you enjoy honey and fresh fruit.
But that’s not all – stuff your face with some of the world’s finest chocolates! Learn about how cocoa beans are transformed into mouth-watering delights.
10. Visit a Plantation
If you find yourself stuck indoors due to the unpredictable Kauai weather, then a visit to Kilohana Plantation is the perfect way to make a rainy day more interesting.
This 27,000-acre former sugar plantation may be over a century old, but it still has plenty of attractions for kids and adults alike.
You’ll find everything from flavorsome restaurants to a soothing spa and even a working steam train.
Plus, let’s not forget about the Tudor mansion and sprawling tropical gardens – all of which are perfect for taking Instagram-worthy pictures.
11. Go for Happy Hour
One thing that never fails is heading out for nibbles and drinks during happy hour.
While there are many fantastic spots for happy hour specials – such as Happy Talk Lounge Restaurant & Bar or Duke’s – you really can’t go wrong with friends, affordable drinks, and excellent light bites.
Rainy days on Kauai don’t have to be dampened – you just need to get out of the hotel!
12. Go Rum Tasting
Make your way over to the Koloa Rum Company Store & Tasting Room. Here, you’ll get to sample some of their delectable locally-made rum, crafted using pure rainwater from Mount Waialeale and Hawaiian sugar cane.
And with daily scheduled tastings every hour, how can you say no? They also offer ready-to-drink cocktails and mouth-watering rum cakes – what a way to spend a rainy afternoon!
13. Go Whale Watching
While it may seem counter-intuitive to go on a boat in the rain, whale watching is about as much fun wet or dry.
From December to May, the island of Kauai is transformed into a mecca for whale watchers.
Set sail on a boat tour and see migrating humpback whales playing in their natural habitat or breaching out of the water
Fourteen passengers per group guarantee that you won’t miss out on any sightings.
14. Go Coffee Tasting
Forget the blah weather and transport yourself to a caffeine-fueled paradise.
Set your taste buds free at the Kauai Coffee Company in Kalaheo – not only are they the largest coffee grower in the U.S, they offer free self-guided tours of their orchard!
Go educate yourself on how your daily cup o’ joe is made – from farm to table almost – and chat with the knowledgeable guides.
Stock up at their gift shop for special treats that’ll keep your tastebuds singing throughout your stay.
15. Charter a Fishing Boat
Don’t get stuck indoors due to a rainy day in Kauai; go on an adventure and catch your dinner instead.
With this private fishing charter, you can potentially be reelin’ in striped marlin, mahi mahi, and more – plus spectacular scenery typically reserved for postcards.
16. Go Scuba Diving
So, you’re in Kauai and it’s raining cats and dogs? Don’t worry; you don’t have to stay inside! Submerge yourself underwater with a scuba diving tour.
With only four divers per group, you’ll get the full experience: expert instruction on diving safety and detailed marine ecology and fish identification briefing.
Then make your way down to a maximum depth of 40 feet and watch as the vibrant colors come alive beneath you.
Don’t wait for clear skies to start living – take advantage of a rainy day and go scuba diving!
