You and Your Girlfriends Need to Book a Vacation to This Island Stat

Sanuk Surfer, Kiana Fores, in Hanalei Bay

(Image credit: Bryce Johnson)

published 16 February 2017

You may recognize it from being the backdrop in some *major* Hollywood films—Jurassic World, Pirates of the Caribbean, Lilo & Stitch (yes, really), just to name a few—but this Hawaiian Island doesn't just exist in the movies...it actually does exist. It's Kauaʻi, and it is *the* spot for you and your friends' next getaway.

But don't take it from us. Sanuk (opens in new tab) Surfer Kiana Fore is native to Kauaʻi and gave us the ultimate must-dos on the island—because everyone wants the intel from the locals, right?

The Hanalei Pier - aka the perfect spot to check the surf and see the sun rise. — The Hanalei Pier, the perfect spot to check the surf and see the sun rise.

Also known to the locals as "The Pier," Hanalei Bay is the ideal beach spot. Whether you are getting up to see the sunrise or wanting to get the perfect boomerang moment jumping off the pier, the Hanalei Pier is a must.

And for all of the surfers out there—Hanalei Pier is the only place on the island where you can see all of the waves and really check the surf.

Kiana Fores checking out the surf in the Sanuk Yoga Sling 2 — Kiana Fores checking out the surf in Sanuk.

The Farmer's Market

Colorful Instagram of organic vegetables? Yes please.

It's Kiana's go-to every weekend to support all of the local community farms, and it's a tourist's ultimate spot to get authentic coconuts or fresh guavas.

The Farmer's Market (Kiana is wearing Sanuk's Dree Me Cruiser)

All Kauai's Hikes Lead to Waterfalls...

Literally all of the hiking trails—whether they're 8 minutes or 8 miles—lead to a breathtaking waterfall, and if you're lucky, a waterfall with a rope swing to jump in!

"The Common Grounds hike is like a real life Willy Wonka tropical land"— Kiana Fores

She also recommends the infamous hiking trail "Hanakapiai Hiking Trail (opens in new tab)" or what the locals call "Hanakaps."

The Na Pali Coast Boat Ride

Na Pali Coast Boat Ride, talk about picture perfect moment

Tired of walking? Spend the afternoon riding around the crystal clear waters of the Na Pali coast on a boat.

I mean, who wouldn't want to cruise these waters? Boat Tour recommendation: Go Blue Adventures (opens in new tab).

Every Beach Vacation Needs an Acai Bowl

The island's infamous Wishing Well Shave Ice

Founded by two pro-surfers, every single local will point you in the direction of Wishing Well Shave Ice (opens in new tab) for literally the BEST acai bowl of your life. From drizzled peanut butter to the ultimate snow cone, this is the place to cool down and refuel.

Not to mention this super Instagrammable sign in it's backyard...

The Hanalei Rainbow - Kiana wearing Sanuk

Sunset Yoga

For the ultimate zen experience, you *need* to do yoga. Try it either on the beach or Yoga with Lulu (opens in new tab) (at her studio).

If you're strategic, you can do some yoga while watching sun set on the island. Kiana took us to this beach also known as, "The End of the Road," where surfers go to catch waves (remember Soul Surfer anyone?) and the only location on the island to catch the sunset in the wintertime.

The Island of Green Juice...and Other Amazing Food

Kauai Juice Co - the best organic juice in town

Want a quick ginger shot? Or a full on green juice? Kauai Juice Co adds an entire new meaning to fresh.

Kiana's Recs

For Juice...Kauai Juice Co (opens in new tab).

For Lunch...Kilauea Fish Market (opens in new tab). (Get the ahi wrap!)

For Dinner...The Dolphin (opens in new tab). (They have amazing sushi.)

For Packing...Definitely a pair of Sanuk Sandals, a sarong (a must for the island because you can tie it, wrap it, drape it, etc.), and bikinis...lots of bikinis.

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