Kaua‘i Welcomes Visitors as Progress Continues

What Visitors Need to Know

Updated 23 September 2026 | 4:00 p.m. HST

Kauaʻi continues to make significant progress following Hurricane Lowell. Most accommodations, restaurants, shops, tours, and activities have reopened and are welcoming visitors.

Some areas still have limited access. Hā‘ena and Wainiha remain closed to local traffic only. While most hotels and activities have reopened, visitors are encouraged to confirm their plans, follow all restrictions, and travel with patience and aloha.

Before You Travel

  • Confirm that your accommodations are available and able to host you.
  • Confirm flights, activities, transportation and other essential parts of your itinerary directly with providers. Visit Open Kauaʻi for information about businesses and visitor experiences that are operating.
  • Check Hawaiʻi State Parks notices before visiting a park or trail.
  • Reconfirm plans as your arrival date approaches.

 

If essential parts of your itinerary are unavailable, the Hawaiʻi Tourism Authority recommends rescheduling your Kauaʻi visit instead of canceling your Hawaiʻi trip.

Current Conditions at a Glance

  • Visitor businesses: Most businesses across Kauaʻi have reopened and are welcoming visitors. Hours, amenities, and operating capacity may vary.
  • North Shore access: Hanalei Town and Bay is open and accessible.
  • Parks and trails: Portions of Wailua River State Park have reopened with restrictions. All other state parks, Kōkeʻe Road, trails, and all state-park camping on Kauaʻi remain closed. Check current notices before departing.

  Map of Kaua‘i showing restricted areas due to Hurricane Lowell  

Traveling Around Kauaʻi

  • Travel with patience and flexibility as conditions may continue to evolve.
  • Respect closures, posted signs, and "local traffic only" designations.
  • Do not enter affected communities to view storm damage.

Supporting Kauaʻi's Communities

Visiting responsibly and supporting local businesses can make a meaningful difference for Kauaʻi's employees, families, and communities.

  • Dine at locally owned restaurants.
  • Shop at local stores and markets.
  • Book activities with operating local providers.
  • Be patient with employees and businesses managing limited staffing, supplies, or services.
  • Be flexible if plans need to change.

Ways to Give Back

The people of Hawaiʻi are grateful for the outpouring of support from visitors and friends around the world. If you are moved to help, please consider a financial donation through American Red Cross | Hawaiʻi Community Foundation Stronger Hawaiʻi Fund | The Salvation Army

 

This page will be updated as conditions change. Last updated 23 September 2026 | 4:00 p.m. HST.