Our Favorite Rainy Day Activities on Kauai

Just like the rest of the northern hemisphere, Kauai experiences slightly wetter weather and cooler temperatures during the winter months, so it is a good idea to keep this list of our favorite rainy day activities on Kauai close at hand just in case. You know what they say, no rain, no rainbows. Even if you encounter a little wet weather while you're on Kauai, there is no shortage of exciting things to see and fun activities to do year-round. Here is our list of the best rainy day activities and things to do on Kauai in winter.

Taste Paradise

There is nothing better than sampling delicious, locally grown Kauai Coffee at the source to help chase the rainy day blues away. Rain or shine, free samples of our entire line of 100% Kauai Coffee are available from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. daily. From the sweet and fruity Kauai Blue Mountain to the intense and chocolatey dark roast Peaberry, we have a range of options to satisfy any palate. Our island-inspired flavored coffees are a fan favorite as well. Don't miss the Vanilla Macadamia Nut, Toasty Banana Nut Cream, and Coconut Caramel Crunch flavors. During your visit, you can also take a complimentary walking tour, shop for unique coffee gifts, and catch a free daily roasting demonstration. The Kauai Coffee Cafe also serves up tasty lattes, frozen coffee treats, and decadent malasadas (doughnuts) to fuel the rest of your day. If sipping samples has you warmed up and ready for more, sign up for a Coffee on the Brain Tour for in-depth information about the growing Kauai Coffee from Seed to Cup or join us for a behind-the-scenes experience on the Farm Tour. Coffee on the Brain is available Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Sundays from 8:30 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. Farm Tours are available Monday through Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. The Farm Tour tram is covered, so a little wet weather won't stop you from having a fabulous time exploring part of our 3,100-acre coffee farm! [caption id="attachment_3431" align="aligncenter" width="1024"] Photo by Cristofer Jeschke on Unsplash[/caption]

Take a Scenic Drive

The island of Kauai is 552 square miles and only has 75 miles of highway to drive from end to end. This means that you can drive from the north shore of the island all the way around in three hours or less. If you don't like the weather where you are, chances are you can find warmer or cooler temps within a short drive. This is because the Hawaiian Islands contain at least 10 of the world's 14 different climate zones. Not all of them are found on Kauai, but most are so if rain showers get in the way of your planned activities for the day, head to the dryer, more arid south and west shores of the island. Here are a few of our favorite landmarks and natural wonders to take in on a scenic drive.

• Wailua Falls is a dramatic 200-foot waterfall that is easily accessible by car. If you are a Fantasy Island fan, you'll recognize this natural wonder from the opening credits. To get to the Wailua Falls overlook, follow Kuhio highway to the north side of Lihue. Look for the Wailua Falls overlook sign at the base of Maalo Road in Hanamaulu and follow Maalo Road uphill for three miles. Rain will only make the waterfall more dramatic, so it is an excellent diversion on wet weather days. Stay safe by following all posted signs and warnings.
• The Maluhia Road Tree Tunnel is a sight to behold rain or shine. Nearly 500 towering Eucalyptus trees line this picturesque road and create a natural canopy tunnel you can drive through. If your scenic drive takes you south, follow Kaumualii highway and road signs to Poipu. Be careful as you turn right onto Maluhia Road from the highway and watch for oncoming cars as well as pedestrians taking photos.
• Spouting Horn is a natural blowhole and one of the most photographed spots on the island. From Maluhia Road, follow signs south to Poipu and Spouting Horn. When the surf is up, Spouting Horn can project a jet of water nearly 50 feet into the air!

[caption id="attachment_3190" align="aligncenter" width="1024"] Koloa Sugar Company Plantation cane train, Hawaii, 1882 by unknown photographer licensed under public domain[/caption]

Become a History Buff

Kauai is the oldest inhabited island in the Hawaiian Island chain and has a rich and colorful history. Learn all about the early Polynesian explorers, Kauai Monarchs, and Plantation Era history at one of many historical sites and museums. Pass through the charming Old Koloa Town Historical Center, Grove Farm, or Kilohana Plantation to learn more about the history of sugar plantations on Kauai. You might even learn something about Kauai Coffee's history while you're at it. For a Royal history and more, check out the Kauai Museum in Lihue. If nature is your favorite subject, you might enjoy the free exhibit at the Koke'e Natural History Museum located in Koke'e State Park.

Look for Winter Wildlife

The water surrounding the island of Kauai hosts an incredible diversity of sea life year-round, but winter is when the waves really come alive. From endangered sea turtles and monk seals to dolphins, whales, rays, and scores of colorful fish, there is a world of wildlife to see beneath the waves. Watch for Humpback Whales playfully spouting and splashing from November through March. You can see them from the shore or on a boat tour. No matter the weather, winter is a wonderful time to visit the island of Kauai. Fuel your adventures with delicious, island-grown, 100% Kauai Coffee.