Kauai with a Toddler
Introduction
18 months after, we came on vacation with the whole family in Kauai because when closedown started here in March 2020 here was our last visit. We did actually manage one other, small vacation last summer but it was our first full week off since the Before Times. Back to the island where we went on our babymoon (now with a 2-year-old)
I was so sure Id be able to write about our journey while we were still in Kauai after we got home, but with the cold and newer season changes happening upon return— well, here it is finally. It is a beautiful house, seated and bright with the breeze flowing through louvered windows and I am thankful. Hearing roosters crow outside and the birds chirp, seeing a bowl of fresh farmer’s market tomatoes with my toddler — that makes this memory even more magical. That my baby is now in the next room over napping after a full morning playing in the sunshine.
Our Kauai Experience
You jump to removing the higher plane for an extra day (in our case) but then commence worrying about replacing a lost bottle or expected thermal and thank dang they have it when you get back. Since we had a companion pass and some flight credit we needed to use on domestic flights, Kauai was a no brainer. We were grateful Ian was under two and we could fly him as a lap infant. With the month of June being our last opportunity to cash in a freebie while I could sucker him on he still nearly got us to buy him out.
A quick search had confirmed that Kauai was the island for us — our friends who had been before had also been gushing about it. The visit paid off and we had great views of the nice, more remote landscapes. It poured with ran and the weather was kind unpredictable…But we had the best time and cannot wait to go back. Kauai was a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation, without that overly touristy/resort-y/cliché Hawaii feeling that many say comes with a trip to the Aloha state. Already, we dream about hopping on over to the other Hawaiian islands.
Kilauea Lighthouse
Kilauea Lighthouse — A must visit with a toddler when in Kauai Positioned atop a cliff perched high above the depths of the ocean this location is much more than just about the light house, but rather, the views it provides. The bird sanctuary, which is home to an amazing array of birds,is the primary draw here. You’ll also be able to view an albatross take off and soar over the stunning North Shore with provided binoculars.
Its setting amid vegetation may add to the attraction — but it’s worth noting that some of those plants, such as the albizia trees near Kalihiwai Bridge, are known invasives. The island is spending $3 million to kick these plants to the curb, but it’s hard to argue they’re not stunning. Booking : Reservations are a must and will costs slightly so when you go thinking of some fee you will have to pay before entering. Kilauea Located at the very end of the Hawaiian islands, Kilauea is an additional parent-toddler paradise.
Waimea Canyon/ Kokee State Parks.
The fairytale Waimea Canyon and Kokee State Park with kids Nicknamed the Grand Canyon of the Pacific, Waimea (Wai-may-ah) Canyon This is one massive gorge 10 miles long, 3,000 feet wide and some 3,600 feet deep. The area is surrounded by gorgeous bays, with lookout points and waterfalls for you to take a moment and step back. The scenic drive along the coast ends at Ha’ena State Park, with beach access offering a perfect place to picnic or jump into the surf (if conditions are safe) while admiring the Napali Coast in all its majesty. The single spot on land where you can see the Napali Coast without going by helicopter or watercraft rides.
The park also has good food to keep you going and when your ready for a break. Sure, you could eat the Portuguese bean soup an Instagram was ~literally~ meant for (you’ve probably seen it on your feed), but we told you to order that elsewhere; eat the burger or indulge in a piece of chocolate coconut pie instead The Kalalau Trail is a glorious day hike, but the adventure may be too steep for toddler tummies! The park also has kayaking and ziplining for families that want some more excitement.
Visiting on a sunny day will definitely be better and will give you the full feel of what these parks have to offer in natural beauty. The parks are both designed to entertain families, whether they’re out hiking or simply enjoying the drive. This is a perfect place for families to couples with amazing natural beauty and some great safe adventure making it one of your top choices for Kauai.
Kauai with a Toddler
Beaches
Today I am sharing the beaches of Kauai fun and not-so-fun of having toddlers around. The water, my daughter loved but the sand, not so much making our beach trips a little difficult to enjoy. Still, so long as she was not allowed to plant her feet on the sand, she was content. That said, Kauai has numerous types of beaches from those that are not kid friendly to family friendly and perfect for your kids.
Azul (aged 3 years): a beach with sand to build castles, some splashing in the water, and maybe just a light dunk or boogieboard riding for the brave. And since we have tons of free room to run and play these beach outings quickly turned into… the 1 thing we do on the island. We found beaches that suited our needs best, which was lovely as we were able to find some where they toddler could paddle in safety.
Hanalei Bay
Hanalei Bay is one of the top places to visit in Kauai with toddlers This picturesque cove is framed by verdant mountains. The still waters make it an ideal place to relax and there is a du Hmmmmm calm water so good for relaxing, and theres a peir to go walk on without all the tourists going HIPPEYYYY. It is generally a calm place, perfect for couples and families with kids as the beach provides enough room to play. There are restrooms, plenty of parking (though it fills up during peak hours).
It’s not exactly the beach you’d go to for a good surf, but there are a few surf spots where you can watch from your waterfront deck with full ocean views of North Shore riders. Your ample pleasures include long sections of golden sand, with plenty of room to enjoy great views (such as Bali Hai) It would be hard to find a more beautiful place for families wanting an escape � Just be aware that parts such as the pavilion and pier have recently been damaged by a storm, but not to fear, you can still find ways out to the beach.
Along the way, stop off at Kalalea Juice Hale for a snack or a revitalizing beverage to-go, or go ahead and drive all the way up to Nourish Hanalei. Heading South, Stop in at Anakē’s Juice Bar for a quick refresher.
Poipu Beach
It is situated in Poipu Beach, which makes this place a family-friendly destination for Kauai visitors particularly if you come here with young children. The beach has a protected area that offers mild surf and waves for toddlers to wade in. In general, the atmosphere is more on the relaxed side by virtue of its location on the south shore of Kauai which enjoys great weather most of the time. There is also much parking available, and the beach has a lifeguard on duty for safety. There is even a grass park and play equipment for kids to run around on in the shade.
Poipu Beach • one of the “only” beaches for wildlife viewing You may even see a sea turtle or monk seal sunbathing on the beach. You might hope to see them, even when you are snorkeling close by. The sand is soft and there are really shallow spots perfect for kids to play in while the parents look at the view! With no so wild animals to see, we took turns snorkeling while our daughter played along the beach and were amazed at all of the colorful fish right off shore.
But you know poipu beach itself is breath-taking when drenched in the early morning light… — and then there are the sunsets): And if you happen by Poipu Beach late afternoon, well, keep an eye on that western horizon. We were North Shore people/traders, but could not resist driving down to Poipu! This makes it truly a family dream—plenty of places to relax, step back and view, see animals from every environment (all very kid-friendly). Just remember to give the mon
Anini Beach
More of a family beach, particularly if you have young children. Anini Beach This is a peaceful and safe beach, as its waters are shallow. This was a favourite for us, as the water is so flat and shallow it is hard to see most important with Chance on one side and Indigo on the other. We arrived at the end of the dirt road to find a little boat ramp accessory in the cove with plenty of shade under big trees. There was plenty of, which just added to the isolation and meant we were able to properly unwind.
Anini Beach — For those who absolutely love snorkeling, Anifi Beach is right up your alley. We saw some colorful fish and a sea turtle from the shore! SwimmingIf you are a parent and want to have a blast in the water there is plenty of it to swim, but at some areas where you setup tent, need to swim quite a bit to reach the coral reef. For my own part, I stayed near the edge where I could paddle against the current, too afraid to go out of my depth in case it carried me away.
Located on the north shore, Anini Beach extends over 3 miles providing space for families to have some privacy. The quiet waves ensure that small children were easily able to play in the water, while we relaxed in the ample shade beside. There is even a part of grass right by the water! Our daughter loved to crawl around there and get a bit of fresh air. This is possibly one of the most protected, safe beaches that we visited and it was perfect for a quiet day out families. You might even see some crabs, which our friend Caleb was so pumped about!
Lydgate Beach
Lydgate Beach, Kauai Lydgate beach is a fantastic place to start your adventures after landing in Kauai with a 2 year old. This beach is quite close to the airport and provides beautiful views of sunrise, with also a chance to do some nice snorkelling. The settlement has quiet mangrove-like forests and the beach is popular due to its swimming lagoons, being perfect for families with young children. A lagoon so still it is perfect for toddlers with their floaties, a safe place to start to trust the water.
The soft sand, mixed in with just a few rocks here and there is making for a picture perfect standing! Families can relax and spread around the tranquil waters of a generous pool or super gentle small pool. There is ample parking, all are welcome at this park which even!allows grills and offers space for families convenient picnicking on the shore. Overime, volcanic rock formed a natural barrier to create calm waters that are ideal for snorkeling and perfect for seeing several species of fish ( Photo: David Green).
Luring travelers to the remote northern coast of Kauai, Anini Beach is a peaceful escape from the more crowded shores along the east. A true jewel, it is famed for its shallow water and abundant marine life, making it an excellent snorkeling site that caters to families looking for a safe and fun day at sea. Young children can wade, with supervision and /or swimming aid and the gentle waves make it safe. Known for its transparent waters, which reveal some colorful fish and other marine things without the need for expensive goggles, is Anini Beach.
