Kauai Dining and Shopping

Experience the Flavors and Finds of Kauai – From Farm to Table, Shop to Shoreline, you’ll find a tremendous selection of Kauai dining and shopping options during your stay with Koloa Kai!

Best Local Eats: A Foodie’s Guide to Kauai

Kauai is a paradise not only for its stunning landscapes but also for its rich culinary scene. From fresh seafood caught daily to farm-to-table cuisine infused with local flavors, Kauai offers a gastronomic adventure that reflects the island’s cultural diversity and natural abundance. Whether you’re a devoted foodie or just someone who loves a good meal, here’s your guide to the best local eats on Kauai.

1. Fresh Seafood

Being surrounded by the Pacific Ocean, Kauai boasts some of the freshest seafood you’ll ever taste. Popular dishes include poke (marinated raw fish), ahi tuna, and opakapaka (pink snapper). For an authentic experience:

  • Koloa Fish Market (Koloa): Famous for its fresh poke bowls and plate lunches.
  • Duke’s Kauai (Lihue): Known for its beachfront dining and ahi dishes.
  • Hanalei Dolphin (Hanalei): Offers fresh sushi and expertly prepared seafood entrees.

2. Farm-to-Table Cuisine

Kauai’s lush landscapes make it a haven for fresh produce, which local chefs transform into memorable dishes. Many restaurants take pride in sourcing their ingredients from nearby farms.

  • The Greenery Café (Kapaa): A cozy spot offering creative vegetarian and vegan options.
  • Bar Acuda (Hanalei): A tapas-style restaurant featuring locally grown produce and fresh fish.
  • Healthy Hut Market and Cafe (Kilauea): Offers organic and locally sourced meals for those on the go.

3. Island Favorites

No visit to Kauai is complete without trying its unique island-style comfort food. From plate lunches to sweet treats, these local staples are a must.

  • Puka Dog (Poipu): Try their Hawaiian-style hot dogs topped with tropical relishes.
  • Hamura Saimin Stand (Lihue): A beloved noodle shop serving traditional saimin bowls.
  • Lappert’s Hawaii (Multiple Locations): Famous for its handcrafted ice cream in tropical flavors.

4. Food Trucks and Casual Eateries

For a more casual yet equally delicious experience, Kauai’s food trucks are hard to beat. They’re scattered across the island, offering a variety of cuisines.

  • Kikuchi’s (Kapaa): A hidden gem for tacos and fresh fish dishes.
  • Aloha Aina Juice Bar (Hanalei): Specializes in fresh acai bowls and smoothies.
  • The Fresh Shave (Kalaheo): Offers artisanal shave ice with organic syrups and local ingredients.

5. Coffee and Desserts

Kauai’s culinary delights extend to its coffee and dessert scene. Local coffee is grown on the island and pairs perfectly with a sweet island treat.

  • Kauai Coffee Company (Kalaheo): Visit the estate for a tour and taste their world-class brews.
  • JoJo’s Shave Ice (Multiple Locations): Known for its layered shave ice with creamy toppings.
  • Midnight Bear Breads (Hanapepe): Artisan breads, pastries, and desserts, this café is a gem for sweet treats and coffee lovers.

Tips for Foodies

  • Try Local Markets: Farmers’ markets across Kauai offer fresh produce, local snacks, and prepared foods.
  • Make Reservations: Popular restaurants can fill up fast, so plan ahead for dinner spots.
  • Be Adventurous: Kauai’s culinary scene blends Hawaiian, Asian, and Western influences. Don’t be afraid to try something new!

Where to Find the Best Coffee on Kauai: A Caffeine Lover’s Guide

The island’s volcanic soil and tropical climate create the perfect environment for growing exceptional coffee beans, making it a destination for coffee connoisseurs. Whether you’re looking for a cozy café to sip a latte or a farm-to-cup experience, here are the best places to find coffee on Kauai.

1. Kauai Coffee Company (Kalaheo)

Kauai Coffee Company is a must-visit for anyone passionate about coffee. As the largest coffee farm in Hawaii, they offer free self-guided tours and tastings. Walk through rows of coffee trees, learn about their sustainable farming practices, and sample a variety of blends. Don’t miss their Estate Reserve collection for a unique, small-batch experience.

2. Java Kai (Kapa’a)

Java Kai is a beloved local spot for its laid-back atmosphere and outstanding coffee. Located in the heart of Kapa’a, this café serves locally roasted beans, making every cup a burst of tropical flavor. Pair your coffee with their house-made pastries, breakfast bowls, or acai smoothies for a perfect start to your day.

3. Small Town Coffee (Kapa’a)

This quirky, artsy café is a hidden gem on Kauai’s East Side. Small Town Coffee is known for its handcrafted espresso drinks and friendly vibes. The café often features local art and has a strong commitment to sustainability, making it a great place to grab a cup of coffee while supporting the local community.

4. Dark Horse Coffee Roasters (Koloa)

Dark Horse Coffee Roasters is another standout in Kapa’a, specializing in craft-roasted coffee with bold, rich flavors. This small, family-owned roastery prides itself on ethical sourcing and small-batch roasting. Their nitro cold brew is particularly popular among locals and visitors alike.

5. Aloha Roastery (Lihue)

Aloha Roastery offers a chic, modern coffeehouse vibe with some of the best brews on the island. With locations in both Lihue and Poipu, they serve high-quality coffee sourced from around the world and roasted locally on Kauai. Their iced lattes and specialty drinks are perfect for a hot day.

6. Hanalei Bread Company (Hanalei)

Tucked away on the North Shore, Hanalei Bread Company is a quaint spot for artisanal coffee and organic baked goods. They use locally roasted beans and offer a variety of creative coffee drinks. Pair your cappuccino with a freshly baked croissant or their famous avocado toast.

7. Midnight Bear Breads (Hanapepe)

For those on the West Side, Midnight Bear Breads in Hanapepe is a delightful stop for coffee and pastries. Known for their artisan breads and desserts, this bakery also brews a stellar cup of coffee using locally sourced beans.

Tips for Coffee Lovers Visiting Kauai

  • Go Farm-to-Cup: Visit Kauai Coffee Company to learn about the island’s coffee-growing process and taste beans grown right on the island.
  • Try Local Beans: Many of the cafés on Kauai use beans grown locally or roasted on the island, offering a unique flavor profile you can’t find elsewhere.
  • Pair with Island Treats: Many coffee shops also serve local favorites like taro scones, lilikoi bars, or banana bread, making your coffee break even more special.

Kauai Souvenirs: Unique Local Finds

Bringing a piece of Kauai home is the perfect way to cherish your visit to the Garden Isle. Known for its rich culture, breathtaking landscapes, and local craftsmanship, Kauai offers an array of unique souvenirs. Here’s a guide to the must-have local finds that capture the essence of the island.

1. Kauai Made Products

The “Kauai Made” program showcases authentic products created by local artisans and businesses. From gourmet foods to handcrafted jewelry, the Kauai Made label guarantees you’re supporting the island’s talented community and taking home a genuine piece of Kauai.

2. Hawaiian Sea Salt

Pa’akai, or Hawaiian sea salt, is a culinary treasure. Available in red (infused with volcanic clay) or black (with activated charcoal), these salts add a touch of Kauai’s essence to your cooking and make for a unique gift.

3. Locally Made Jewelry

Jewelry crafted from Kauai’s natural treasures—like shells, sea glass, and volcanic stones—tells the story of the island’s beauty. Many artisans also offer Niihau shell leis, a rare and luxurious keepsake unique to Hawaii.

4. Kauai Coffee

As home to the largest coffee plantation in the U.S., Kauai offers world-class coffee. Visit the Kauai Coffee Company plantation to taste and purchase premium blends, perfect for the coffee lover in your life.

5. Tropical Fruit Jams and Jellies

Capture the flavors of Kauai with preserves made from fresh local fruits like guava, passionfruit, and mango. These tropical spreads are delicious reminders of your time in paradise.

6. Handcrafted Woodwork

Local artisans create exquisite bowls, utensils, and decorative pieces from native Hawaiian woods like Koa and Milo. These handcrafted items make elegant and timeless souvenirs.

7. Aloha Wear

Bright and colorful Aloha shirts, dresses, and muumuus are quintessential Hawaiian souvenirs. Look for designs featuring Kauai-specific elements like the Nā Pali Coast or tropical flora to make your purchase extra special.

8. Local Artwork

Bring Kauai’s natural beauty home with a piece of local art. From vibrant paintings to stunning photography, galleries and markets across the island feature works by talented Kauai artists.

9. Spa Products

Treat yourself with spa products made on Kauai. Soaps, lotions, and oils infused with tropical scents like coconut, plumeria, and passionfruit allow you to relive the island’s tranquility at home.

10. Hawaiian Music

Hawaiian slack-key guitar and ukulele music capture the spirit of Kauai. CDs or digital albums from local musicians make meaningful gifts or personal mementos.

11. Farmers Market Finds

Explore Kauai’s farmers markets for handmade crafts, fresh produce, and unique products like Kauai-grown vanilla, honey, and artisanal foods.

Where to Shop

  • Local Markets: Hanalei Farmers Market, Kapaa Art Night
  • Specialty Stores: Kauai Coffee Company, Island Soap & Candle Works
  • Art Galleries: Poipu Shopping Village, Hanapepe Art Night
  • Kauai Made Vendors: Available across the island; look for the official Kauai Made logo.

Whether you’re shopping for friends, family, or yourself, these souvenirs are perfect reminders of your time in Kauai. By purchasing local products, you’re also supporting the island’s community and preserving its cultural heritage.