Are you thinking about planning a trip to Kauai in May? Find out some of the best things to do in Kauai in May that are worth adding to your itinerary!
This list of things to do in Kauai in May was written by Hawaii travel expert Marcie Cheung and contains affiliate links which means if you purchase something from one of my affiliate links, I may earn a small commission that goes back into maintaining this blog.
TL;DR — Kauai in May at a Glance
- Avg daytime temp: 80–82°F | Nights: ~71°F
- Ocean temp: ~78°F (no wetsuit needed)
- Crowds: Shoulder season — noticeably fewer than summer
- Hotel rates: Typically lower than June–August
- Lei Day: May 1, free events at the Kauai Museum in Lihue
- Most important: Mountain tubing books out weeks ahead. Lock it in before you do anything else.
I’ve been to Kauai over 40 times. My grandmother lived there part-time. My mom lives there now. And still, every time I land on the island in May, I feel like I’m getting away with something.
Most families either rush to go in summer (peak prices, peak crowds) or they skip May because they assume it rains. Both are mistakes.
May is a shoulder season month in Hawaii. The winter swells are calming down. The island is obscenely green from the winter rains. Hotel rates haven’t caught up to summer pricing yet.
And on May 1st, you might land right in the middle of Lei Day, which is one of my favorite cultural experiences in all of Hawaii.
I’m a Certified Hawaii Destination Specialist and a professional tourist who has spent more time on Kauai than I can fully account for, and May is one of the months I recommend most.
Here’s exactly what I’d tell you if we were having coffee.
What’s the Weather Like in Kauai in May?
Daytime highs of 80–82°F, nights around 71°F, ocean temperature about 78°F. You’ll swim in a t-shirt, not a wetsuit.
May sits at the tail end of Hawaii’s rainy season, so you will see showers. Kauai earned the “Garden Isle” nickname for a reason.
Mount Waialeale, in the island’s interior, receives over 400 inches of rain per year on average.
But the relentless downpours of January and February are well behind you by May. You’re mostly looking at brief afternoon showers that pass quickly, especially on the south shore.
One thing worth knowing: the north shore (Hanalei, Princeville) is rainier and cloudier than the south shore (Poipu, Koloa).
If you absolutely need sunshine every morning, base yourself in Poipu. If you can handle occasional clouds in exchange for the most dramatic scenery on the island, the north shore is worth it.
The ocean in May is calmer than it is in winter, which matters a lot if you’re planning activities like snorkeling, paddleboarding, or a Na Pali boat tour.
Kauai has some of the best snorkeling in May compared to the other islands. Conditions are good island-wide once the winter swells settle down.
Is May a Good Time to Visit Kauai?
Yes. Arguably the best. Here’s the honest case:
Shoulder season pricing. You’re not paying peak summer rates. Hotels and rental cars both tend to cost less in May than in July or August, and availability is better.
Fewer crowds at the spots that matter. The Sleeping Giant trail, Anini Beach, the Fern Grotto… all of them are calmer in May than they are once summer school break starts. This is not a small thing if you’re traveling with kids.
Calmer ocean. The north shore in particular becomes accessible again in May. Beaches that had rough winter surf are often swimmable and snorkel-able by the time May rolls around.
Lei Day is May 1. This alone makes May special.
The main tradeoff: you may get more clouds than you would in June or July. If that’s a dealbreaker, go in June. If it isn’t, stay in May and enjoy the savings.
What Events Happen in Kauai in May?
Lei Day — May 1
May Day is Lei Day in Hawaii, and I love this holiday in a way that’s hard to fully explain unless you’ve experienced it.
It started in 1927, when a poet named Don Blanding had the idea to create a holiday centered on the Hawaiian tradition of giving and wearing lei.
His colleague Grace Tower Warren coined the phrase “May Day is Lei Day in Hawai’i.” The celebration has been held on May 1 ever since.
On Kauai, the main event is at the Kauai Museum in Lihue. There’s free admission from 10am–1pm, a lei-making contest, hula performances, and cultural demonstrations.
The Kauai Museum also hosts a keiki lei contest (children ages 5 and up can enter). It’s free and community-driven, not a resort production.
Kauai’s island lei is the Mokihana. It’s a small green berry that grows only on Mt. Waialeale, woven into maile leaf.
The scent is somewhere between anise and fennel. It’s unlike any lei you’ll smell on the other islands.
I have 20+ years of hula dancing experience, and watching hula at a community event like this is a different thing entirely from watching a resort show. If your dates line up with May 1, don’t miss it.
More on Hawaiian Lei Day traditions and what to expect →
Mother’s Day
Mother’s Day falls in May, and Kauai is one of the most beautiful places in the world to celebrate it.
Restaurants and resorts put together special menus. Check local listings as you get closer to your trip, because the specifics change year to year.
Ideas for spending Mother’s Day in Hawaii →
What Are the Best Things to Do in Kauai in May?
These are my honest picks. Things I’ve done myself, done with my kids, or consistently recommend to the families I help plan trips for.
1. Mountain Tubing with Kauai Backcountry Adventures
Book this the day you buy your flights. Seriously.
Kauai Backcountry Adventures runs the only mountain tubing experience in all of Hawaii.
You ride a four-wheel drive vehicle deep into the island’s interior, across 17,000 acres of former Lihue Plantation land that most visitors never see.
Then you float 2.5 miles through an irrigation system that was hand-dug in the 1870s, through open canals and tunnels lit only by your headlamp.
My boys have done this twice. The second time, on the drive up, my younger one leaned over and whispered, “Is this the one with the tunnels?” When I said yes, he pumped his fist. That’s the only review that matters to me.
The tour is about 3 hours total, includes a picnic lunch and a swim in a natural pool at the end. Kids need to be at least 5 years old and 43 inches tall. Weight limit is 300 lbs.
It books out weeks in advance, sometimes months. May is a popular month. Do not wait.
Check availability and current rates on Hawaii Tours →
2. Na Pali Coast Boat Tour
There are no roads to the Na Pali Coast. Your options are helicopter, the 11-mile Kalalau Trail (a serious multi-day hike), or a boat tour. For families, the boat wins.
The cliffs drop nearly 4,000 feet straight into the Pacific. Most tours include snorkeling stops in caves and coves that are only accessible from the water. Spinner dolphins are a common sighting.
I’ve done this tour in multiple seasons, and May is one of the better months. The ocean on the Na Pali side has calmed down from the winter swells, so the ride is more comfortable.
If anyone in your family gets motion sick, book a morning tour (the water is typically calmer) and consider sea sickness medication the night before.
Browse Na Pali Coast tours on Viator →
3. Kayak to Secret Falls (Uluwehi Falls)
Kauai has the only navigable rivers in Hawaii, and the Wailua River is the most popular for good reason.
Paddle upstream, hike through the rainforest, and you arrive at Uluwehi Falls. It’s a 120-foot waterfall with a freshwater swimming pool at the base.
The hike portion is not difficult, but the trail is muddy in May. Wear shoes you’re okay ruining, or waterproof sandals with ankle straps. Budget a solid half-day.
The waterfalls are running strong in May because of the winter rains, and the greenery is at its most lush.
This is better for kids who are comfortable on uneven, wet terrain — maybe 7 and up, depending on the kid.
Find kayak tours on Get Your Guide →
4. Anini Beach
If you’ve been stressing about which Kauai beach to take young kids to, this is it.
Anini Beach is protected by one of the longest fringing reefs in Hawaii. The water inside the reef stays calm even when the ocean outside is rough.
My boys spent a whole afternoon at Anini when they were little (snorkeling, chasing fish, wading) without me having to worry about waves knocking them over.
You can also paddleboard, windsurf, and fish here. There are camping sites if that’s your thing. No fee to visit. Bring your own snorkel gear or pick some up at a local shop.
5. Smith’s Fern Grotto Wailua River Cruise
I want to be honest about this one: reviews are mixed. I’ve been doing it since I was a kid and the experience has changed a lot since the 90s.
The Fern Grotto itself is beautiful. It’s a natural lava rock cave where ferns grow down from the ceiling, formed over millions of years.
The Smith family has been running boat tours to the grotto since 1946, nearly 80 years, which is remarkable.
But the experience is touristy in a way that some people love and others find underwhelming.
The boat is a large open-air vessel with live music and hula demonstrations. The walk to the grotto is flat and easy.
You stand on a viewing platform and look up at the ferns while the crew sings a Hawaiian wedding song. It’s lovely. It’s also quick, and you can’t go down into the grotto itself.
My take: worth doing once if you enjoy cultural experiences and relaxed tours. Skip it if you’re looking for adventure.
Current pricing: ~$30/adult, ~$15/child (there’s also a separate state park entrance fee for Wailua River State Park paid on arrival). Tours run Monday–Friday only, four times daily.
Check availability on Viator →
6. Ziplining
Kauai has some of the most scenic zipline courses in Hawaii. And not just because of the views, but because of the backdrop.
Kauai Backcountry Adventures runs a seven-line zipline course with Mt. Waialeale and its waterfalls visible the whole way. Koloa Zipline on the south shore is another strong option.
There are height, age, and weight requirements that vary by company. Check those carefully before booking if you have younger kids.
My full breakdown of the best Kauai zipline tours →
7. Hanapepe Swinging Bridge
Free, easy, and my kids think it’s hilarious. And that’s my entire pitch for this one.
The Hanapepe Swinging Bridge was built in the early 1900s so residents could cross the Hanapepe River.
Today it’s a pedestrian footbridge that sways and bounces pretty dramatically as you walk across it. It’s suspended over a beautiful river valley. Takes maybe 2 minutes.
Combine it with a walk through Hanapepe town. There’s a good art gallery row, and Friday night art walks (typically 6–9pm) if your timing works out.
8. Na ‘Aina Kai Botanical Gardens
This 240-acre property on the north shore is one of the island’s most underrated spots.
It has 13 distinct gardens, a hardwood plantation, a desert garden, beaches, a canyon and 120 bronze sculptures scattered throughout the grounds that you’re supposed to find as you walk.
The Under the Rainbow Children’s Garden is a highlight for families. It’s less known than the big-name attractions, which means it’s rarely crowded.
Hours and tours change seasonally. Check naainakai.org before you go.
9. The Sleeping Giant Hike (Nounou Mountain)
This is my go-to recommendation for families who want a real hike but aren’t looking to summit anything terrifying.
There are three trail options up Nounou Mountain. The moderate east or west trail takes you through forest before opening up to views of Mt. Waialeale, the Wailua River, Kapaa, and the ocean.
From below, the mountain’s ridge line looks exactly like a sleeping giant. Once you see it, you can’t unsee it.
The trail is about 1.75 miles each way with roughly 1,000 feet of elevation gain. It’s not difficult, but it can be slippery after rain, which is a real possibility in May. Wear hiking shoes, not flip flops. Bring water.
Cost: free.
10. Stand Up Paddleboarding on the Wailua River
SUP on the ocean is fun. SUP on the Wailua River in May is something else entirely.
The water is flat and calm, the jungle walls close in on both sides, and the only sounds are birds and paddles.
It’s a pace you don’t find anywhere else on this list. Rentals and guided tours are available near the Wailua River marina.
May is one of the better times to try this — the river is full from winter rains but calm enough for beginners.
Kauai May Activities: Quick Comparison
| Activity | Good for Young Kids? | Book Ahead? | Approx. Cost (Adult) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mountain Tubing | Yes (5+, 43″ min) | YES — weeks ahead | Check current rates |
| Na Pali Boat Tour | Yes (varies by tour) | 1–2 weeks ahead | $150–175+ |
| Kayak to Secret Falls | Better for 7+ | A few days ahead | $40–60 |
| Anini Beach | Yes (all ages) | No reservation | Free |
| Fern Grotto Cruise | Yes (all ages) | Same day usually fine | ~$30 (+ state park fee) |
| Zipline | Age/height minimums vary | A few days ahead | $130–200+ |
| Hanapepe Bridge | Yes (all ages) | No reservation | Free |
| Na ‘Aina Kai Gardens | Yes | Check hours ahead | Varies by tour |
| Sleeping Giant Hike | Moderate fitness needed | No reservation | Free |
| SUP on Wailua River | Kids 6+ usually OK | Same day fine | $30–60/hr rental |
Prices are approximate and change. Always check current rates before booking.
Where Should You Stay in Kauai in May?
Where you stay matters more on Kauai than on most Hawaiian islands because the island is long, the roads wind, and driving between coasts takes more time than you think.
South Shore (Poipu/Koloa): Best weather reliability and best family beach access. Poipu Beach has a protected cove that’s excellent for small kids. This is where I’d send most families.
East Side (Kapaa/Wailua): Central location with easy access to the Wailua River activities, the Fern Grotto, kayaking, and the Sleeping Giant. Good value. My personal favorite for repeat visits.
North Shore (Hanalei/Princeville): Dramatic and beautiful, but rainier in May and further from everything. Worth it if the scenery is your priority over convenience.
May is a good time to find deals. I search Expedia for Kauai hotels. It aggregates rates across properties and often surfaces package deals.
My Kauai Travel Guide for Families has specific hotel recommendations by area and budget if you want more than a general overview.
Do You Need a Rental Car in Kauai?
Yes. No exceptions.
Kauai has no public transit worth relying on. The island is long, the activities are spread across four different coasts, and you will not be able to do most of what’s on this list without a car. Uber and Lyft exist but are unreliable outside of Lihue.
I book through Discount Hawaii Car Rental. I’ve used them repeatedly (my mom lives on Kauai, so I’m there a lot), and they consistently have better rates than booking directly through the major rental companies.
Rates in May are lower than summer, so book early to lock in a good price.
You do not need four-wheel drive unless you’re specifically planning to drive to Polihale State Park on the far west end of the island. A standard compact works for everything else.
Should You Book a Family Photo Session?
This is my standing recommendation for every Hawaii trip: yes, book a Flytographer session.
I always do it when I travel because it’s the only guaranteed way I end up in the photos.
The photographers are local, they know where the light falls and which spots photograph beautifully, and the images capture what the trip actually felt like — not just what it looked like.
You can save $20 when you book through my link.
Planning Your Trip: A Few Honest Notes
If this is your first time on Kauai, or you’re overwhelmed by all the options, I have a free 7-day Kauai planning email course that walks you through everything.
You’ll know where to stay, what to prioritize, how to structure your days without burning your family out.
If you’d rather just have someone do the planning for you, I offer personalized Hawaii travel consultations.
I’ll put together a custom plan based on your family’s ages, interests, budget, and how many days you have.
And if you’re already listening to the Hawaii Travel Made Easy podcast, search for the Kauai episodes.
I’ve talked through specific trip planning scenarios that might be exactly what you need to hear.
Frequently Asked Questions About Kauai in May
Is May a good time to visit Kauai with kids?
One of the best. Shoulder season means fewer crowds and lower rates. The ocean calms down from winter swells, making more beaches accessible. The main thing to know is that mountain tubing books out fast. Don’t wait until you arrive to reserve it.
What is the weather like in Kauai in May?
Daytime highs of 80–82°F, nights around 71°F, ocean temperature about 78°F. Expect some showers, especially on the north shore, but nothing like the heavy rain months of January and February. The south shore (Poipu) gets the most consistent sunshine.
Is Kauai crowded in May?
No, and that’s a major selling point. May is a shoulder season month. It’s between the end of spring break and the start of summer vacation. Trails and beaches are noticeably calmer than they are in July and August.
What is Lei Day in Kauai?
Lei Day is celebrated on May 1 across all of Hawaii. On Kauai, the Kauai Museum in Lihue hosts free cultural events including a lei-making contest, hula performances, and community activities. Kauai’s signature lei is the Mokihana berry. It’s a small green berry woven into maile leaf that’s only found on Mt. Waialeale.
What is the best area to stay in Kauai in May?
For families who want reliable sunshine and beach access, the south shore (Poipu) is the safest bet. For central location and good value, the east side (Kapaa/Wailua) is my personal preference. The north shore is beautiful but rainier and more remote.
Can you snorkel in Kauai in May?
Yes. It’s one of the best months for snorkeling on Kauai. The winter swells have settled down, making spots like Anini Beach and Tunnels Beach on the north shore accessible. Water temperature is about 78°F. No wetsuit needed.
How far in advance should you book activities for Kauai in May?
Mountain tubing with Kauai Backcountry Adventures should be booked as soon as you have travel dates. It can sell out weeks in advance. Na Pali boat tours fill up 1–2 weeks out. The Fern Grotto cruise is usually available with a few days notice. Free activities like hiking need no reservation.
Do you need a rental car in Kauai?
Yes. There’s no reliable public transportation on Kauai. You need a car for every activity listed in this post. Book early for the best rates. I use Discount Hawaii Car Rental.
Ready to Plan Your May Trip to Kauai?
The window for Kauai in May is short. You want to be there after the main rainy season settles but before summer rates kick in. It’s one of the best months on the island, and most families don’t realize it.
Lock in mountain tubing first. Check whether May 1st falls within your dates. Find a south shore hotel if sunshine is your priority, east side if you want central access.
If you want a custom plan built around your specific family, I’d love to help. Book a Hawaii travel consultation here, and we’ll map out exactly what your trip should look like.
Or start for free: 7-day Kauai planning course →
Kauai in May is the version of the Garden Isle most people never find. Now you know it exists.
Related: Best Things to Do in Kauai in April | Best Things to Do in Kauai in June | How to Get Around Kauai | Surprising Facts About Kauai | How Many Days Do You Need on Kauai?