You’re having a great time on your Kauai vacation, and suddenly, it starts raining! Oh no, what to do? Well, if the weather impedes your vacation plans, never fear, we’ve compiled a list of things to do in Kauai when it rains! From souvenir shopping to rum tasting, strolling a museum to seeing a movie in a historic movie theater, you can do all sorts of activities if rain foils your outdoor plans.
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In This Piece
- See a Movie at the Historic Waimea Theater
- Kauai Museum
- Shopping in Kauai
- Rum Tasting at Koloa Rum
- Other Rainy Day Activities
- Book Your Kauai Vacation Today!
- Frequently Asked Questions About Things to Do in Kauai When it Rains
See a Movie at the Historic Waimea Theater
Perhaps one of the most quintessential rainy day activities is seeing a movie, and Kauai has a historic movie theater, the Waimea Theater, that has been operating since 1938! This theater features recent releases, as well as concerts and film festivals. Not only do you get to have a fun night out at the movies when you visit this theater, but you are helping support a beloved community establishment, as well. So grab some popcorn and a fountain drink and enjoy the show!
- Admission: $10 adults; $9 for students, military, and seniors; $8 for children aged 5-10 yrs
- Location: 9691 Kaumualii Hwy, Waimea, HI 96796
- Hours: Schedule depends on movie start time, see website for more details
Kauai Museum
A rainy day is a perfect opportunity to visit the Kauai Museum! This museum has been a place to showcase the history of Kauai since 1954. You can take a self-guided tour or, for a more interactive experience, have one of the docents guide you with their deep expertise and knowledge. Finally, not only does the museum have wonderful exhibits but it also hosts weekly classes - such as weaving, and lei making - for both its members and the public!
- Admission: $15 for adults; $12 for seniors; $10 for students; free for children 7 and under.
- Location: 4428 Rice St, Lihue, HI 96766
- Hours: Monday – Friday, 9 AM to 4 PM. Saturday, 9 AM to 2 PM.
Shopping in Kauai
One of the most tried and true rainy day activities is a good shopping trip! Kauai has some lovely shopping centers - The Shops and Kukuiula and the Poipu Shopping Village - just waiting for you to pick up a delightful souvenir to remember your time on the island. They have everything from local boutiques, art galleries, large chain stores, and eclectic shops, to restaurants and cafes! So, if you are feeling the need for some retail therapy, then a jaunt to these shopping centers will do just the trick.
The Shops at Kukui'ula
- Location: 2829 Ala Kalanikaumaka Suite B204 Poʻipu, HI 96756
- Hours: Open daily, 10 AM to 9 PM.
Poipu Shopping Village
- Location: 2360 Kiahuna Plantation Drive Poipu, Kauai, HI 96756
- Hours: Monday – Saturday, 9:30 AM to 9 PM. Sunday 10 AM to 7 PM.
Rum Tasting at Koloa Rum
Want a taste of Kauai distilled rum? If you’re over 21, then head over to the Koloa Rum Tasting Room & Company Store! This rum is made from pure sugarcane and rainwater from Mount Wai’ale’ale, distilled in a vintage copper pot, and bottled on site. It doesn’t get more local than that! Sample single-batch Hawaiian rums, cocktails, and other tasty treats such as rum cakes and fudge sauce. Make your reservations online, and enjoy this delicious spirit made right here on the island!
- Admission: $5
- Location: 3-2087 Kaumualii Highway Lihue, HI 96766
- Hours: Monday - Saturday, 10 AM to 5 PM.
Other Rainy Day Activities
Discover more rainy day activities with these resources:
- Your Local Guide to a Spa Day in Kauai
- Your Local Guide to the Best Breakfast on Kauai
- Best Restaurants on Kauai
- A Guide to Great Breweries on Kauai
Book Your Kauai Vacation Today!
Featured Rental: Kiahuna Ocean View
Kauai is an incredible destination to visit, no matter the weather. At Kauai Vacation Rentals, our properties offer you a home away from home during your trip! We have a variety of amenities, including homes within walking distance of the ocean, as well as properties featuring a pool or hot tub. Each of our rentals comes with a fully equipped kitchen and comfortable common areas, perfect for relaxing after a long day of fun activities or on a rainy afternoon.
We are confident that you will enjoy your stay at our vacation rentals and leave with unforgettable memories of your time in Kauai. Browse and book one of our vacation rentals today!
Frequently Asked Questions About Things to Do in Kauai When it Rains
When is the rainy season on Kauai?
The rainy season is from November to March, which also coincides with its busiest season. Don’t fret, though, rain showers usually only last a portion of the day, not the entire day.
Do Kauai Vacation Rentals' properties have things for me to do while it rains?
One of the great advantages of staying in a Kauai Vacation Rentals home is the range of amenities that make even a rainy day feel cozy. Our properties come with fully equipped kitchens, allowing you to prepare delicious meals, and comfortable living rooms where you can unwind and relax. Many of our rentals feature flat-screen TVs with streaming services, so you can catch up on your favorite shows or enjoy a movie. Additionally, you can choose a rental with a covered lanai, providing a peaceful space to relax and watch the weather change, whether it's rain or sunshine.