The Ultimate Kauai Packing List

Last September, my husband and I took our honeymoon to Hawaii for two weeks. We spent one week on Kauai, and it was a trip we will never forget. It’s so easy to get caught up daydreaming about all the exciting things to do, that packing might seem intimidating or overwhelming. Not to fear- I’m here to share all of the products I packed for my trip that I would 100% recommend to anyone spending time on Kauai.

1. The Ultimate Kauai Guidebook: Kauai Revealed by Andrew Doughty

If you buy nothing else on this list, get this book. Trust me when I tell you that this book is the secret to having a fantastic Hawaiian vacation. The author, Andrew, lived in Hawaii for many years and writes funny and informative guidebooks on all the Hawaiian Islands. His book on Kauai is probably the most in-depth. It includes unbiased reviews of restaurants, hotels, and excursions across the island, and includes everything from snorkeling to skydiving. It’s a great addition whether you want to plan several months ahead or on a whim. We brought this book everywhere with us! Make sure you get the most up-to-date version, as he edits information all the time.

Cover of book "Ultimate Kauai Guidebook"
It’s like having a personal tour guide in your pocket!

2. A Lightweight Hiking Backpack

If you are planning on doing some hiking on Kauai, I highly recommend this lightweight backpack. In addition to a waterproof pouch inside (ideal for Kauai’s rainy weather), it also has tons of pockets and storage. It is made of nylon and water resistant, which is great for the jungle or beach trips. We still use this all time for our trips, and it can fold up into a small pouch for easy storage if you want.

Blue hiking backpack, with front pockets and multiple color options.
The ultimate travel backpack.

3. Reef-Safe Sunscreen

Did you know Hawaii banned non-reef safe sunscreen? I recommend this brand– it worked great, is safe for reefs, and smells like a vanilla cupcake! Win-win-win! 

Sunscreen bottle, blue with a sun and coral images. 50 SPF
Sunscreen that smells like vanilla!

4. Underwater Phone Case

I have bought this product several times over. You need this product if you plan on snorkeling or diving and want to snap some awesome underwater footage. It is basically a case that turns your regular phone into an underwater camera. Regular underwater cameras can be really expensive, but this case comes in under $50. I personally haven’t used it diving, but I have many times snorkeling and caught incredible footage of sea life, including turtles! This is absolutely a must buy. A disclaimer, the waves can sometimes make it difficult to use the touch screen underwater, it definitely perfect all the time. But the times it does work you can get some really great photos and videos.

Grey cases that enclose iphone and makes them waterproof for snorkeling or diving
Turn your phone into an underwater camera for less than $50!

5. UV-Protection Swim Shirt

I suggest you pair a good sunscreen with a UV swim shirt for an added layer of protection, from the sun but also the occasional jellyfish. I personally have this one, and its perfect!

For a men’s option, my husband has been using this one just fine as well.

Navy long-sleeve swim shirt with light blue trim on the neck and sides
Swim shirts are an added layer of protection against the Hawaiian sun.

6. A Good Swimsuit

On the topic of swim gear, I absolutely adore this women’s high waisted bathing suit from Amazon. It is very flattering, comfortable, and perfect for a day at the beach in Hawaii!

White flowy bathing suit top and highwaisted bottoms with light blue feathers
A comfortable bathing suit in many patterns. A must-have!

7. Slip-On Water Shoes

These shoes are also a Kauai must! Some beaches can require quite the trek from where you park, and these shoes make it less of a chore. Even when wet, they are perfectly comfortable. We even hiked with them on. Another disclaimer here, Hawaii has incredibly rich, red earth that will stain light shoes. So, either buy dark ones or expect them to be permanently stained(lesson learned). We used them so much that we ended up tossing them at the end of the trip as they were pretty beaten up, but I bought them again for lighter adventures and still love them. For a men’s option I recommend this one.

black water shoes
Great water shoes that come in tons of styles.

8. Snorkel Masks

Even if you aren’t hugely into snorkeling, Kauai has some unbelievable underwater wildlife worth seeing!We love these snorkel masks. The breathing tube can detach, making for easier packing. Also, they come with nice carrying bags you can use to store other stuff as well!

Pink and clear snorkel mask
The perfect snorkel mask!

9. Anti-fog Snorkel Spray

This can sometimes be an afterthought, but having anti-fog spray for your snorkel gear will greatly improve your experience! We have used this spray with great success. And bonus, it’s reef safe! We actually bought this brand at a supermarket in Kauai, but you can also buy it on Amazon. 

Small clear spray bottle with "mask defogger and cleaner" and "reef safe"
The best defogger I have used so far.

I hope you found these recommendations helpful! I have used every single product, and can absolutely recommend they will make your trip easier. Do you have any other products you would add to the list? Let me know in the comments!