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Kauaʻi Island FAQ

What is the time difference from the continental U.S.?
Hawaiʻi follows Hawaiʻi Standard Time (GMT-10 hours), which is five hours behind Eastern Standard Time and two hours behind Pacific Standard Time. Hawaiʻi does not observe Daylight Savings Time, so add one extra hour to the time difference during this period (March–November).
 
Where is the main airport on Kauaʻi?
Kauaʻi’s main airport is Līhuʻe Airport (LIH) in southeastern Līhuʻe. Many airlines now offer direct service to Kauaʻi. Visitors can also fly into Honolulu International Airport (HNL) on Oʻahu, then travel to Kauaʻi.
 
How far is it from Līhuʻe Airport (LIH) to:
Hanapēpē: 30 minutes
Kalalau Lookout: 1 hour, 40 minutes
Kōloa: 25 minutes
Poʻipū: 30 minutes
Princeville: 1 hour
Wailua: 15 minutes
Waimea Canyon: 1 hour, 15 minutes
 
What is the area code for Hawaiʻi Island?
The area code for the state of Hawaiʻi is (808).
 
What is the capital city?
Līhuʻe
 
What languages are spoken there?
English and Hawaiian
 
Do I need a car to get around Kauaʻi?
It’s possible to get around Kauaʻi by shuttle, tour bus, taxi or public transportation system. But to make the most of your time in Kauaʻi, consider renting a car.
 
Where are the major hotel and resort areas on Kauaʻi?
There are five major resort destinations on Kauaʻi: North Shore (Princeville), East Side (Coconut Coast), Līhuʻe (Kalapakī), South Shore (Poʻipū), West Side (Waimea).
 
Do I need my passport to get to Kauaʻi?
Since Hawaiʻi is the 50th state, you don’t need to bring your passport unless you’re visiting from outside the United States or traveling to another country after Hawaiʻi.
 
What should I pack on my trip to Kauaʻi?
It’s warm on Kauaʻi, so pack your summer attire. Bring a light, waterproof jacket or sweater for the evenings, a rain poncho for hiking trails in tropical rainforests and casual dress clothes or resort wear if you plan to experience some fine dining. Suits and ties are rarely worn here. You can buy Aloha Shirts and flip-flops (or slippers, as the locals call them) when you get here.

What is the currency?
The U.S. dollar; traveler’s checks aren’t necessary since credit cards are widely accepted, and ATM machines are everywhere.
 
When is a good time to visit Kauaʻi?
Anytime of year is a good time to visit Kauaʻi. The average temperature ranges between 84 and 69 degrees Fahrenheit. Trade winds keep things comfortable year-round. Whale-watching season begins in December and ends in May. Peak whale-watching months are between January and early April.
 
Where can I stay?
Luxury resorts, hotels, vacation rentals, including cottages, homes and condos, and bed and breakfasts are located throughout the island.
 
Is there Internet access?
Wi-Fi is readily available on Kauaʻi and at many hotels.
 
When and where are Sunshine Markets (Farmers’ Markets) on Kauaʻi?
Remember to get to the Sunshine Markets a little early, giving you first choice at the fresh fruits and vegetables.

Monday: Kōloa Ball Park, Maluhia Road, noon
Tuesday: Kalāheo Neighborhood Center, 3:30pm; Hawaiian Farmers Market, Hanalei at Waipā, 2–4pm
Wednesday: Kapaʻa New Town Park (near the Armory), 3pm
Thursday: Kīlauea Neighborhood Center, 4:30pm; Hanapēpē Town Park (behind the fire station), 3:30–5:30pm
Friday: Vidinha Stadium parking lot on Hoolako Street in Līhuʻe, 3pm
Saturday: Kekaha Neighborhood Center, 9am; Christ Memorial Church in Kīlauea, 9–11am
 
Which beaches have lifeguards on Kauaʻi?
Kekaha Beach, Salt Pond Beach Park, Poʻipū Beach Park, Lydgate, Keālia, Hanalei Bay, Hāʻena Beach Park and Kēʻē Beach (we do not advise going to Queen’s Bath because conditions are dangerous).
 
What are tipping guidelines?
U.S. standards apply: 15–20% on meals, at least $1 per bag for porters and at least $1–2 per night for housekeeping.
 
How can I get hiking/permit information on Kauaʻi?
Please call the State Parks office at (808)-274-3444, where you can obtain hiking and camping permits for the State Parks (Kalalau and Kōkeʻe). If you are interested in obtaining a camping permit in one of the County Parks, please call the County Parks office at (808)-241-4463.
 
Where can I go bird watching on Kauaʻi?
For a nominal entry fee, the Kīlauea National Wildlife Refuge (at the Daniel K. Inouye Kīlauea Point Lighthouse) is a special setting for bird lovers. Framed by breathtaking views of Kauaʻi’s North Shore, Hawaiʻi’s endangered birds can be seen nesting in the cliffs, including the Hawaiian Gallinule, red-footed boobies, tropicbirds, albatrosses and frigate birds.
 
If you have additional questions, please email them to [email protected]