Find out what events are on during your stay, and learn about art nights, bon dances, theater, rodeos, and a variety of entertainment in Poipu and on Kauai. You will have the opportunity to live like a local and experience Kauai in yet another way.
E Kanikapila Kakou
Seventeen people attended the first E Kanikapila Kakou (Let`s Strike Up the Music), held the evening after Christmas in 1983.
Since then, it has grown to become Kauai`s premier celebration of Hawaiian music, hula, oral history, and storytelling.
Held on Monday evenings from mid-January through March each year, the event features a talk story/sing-along format and performances by stars in the local music industry.
Past headliners include Kealii Reichel, Jerry Santos, Willy K, Cyril Pahinui, Robert Cazimero, Eddie Kamae, Brother Noland, Jeff Peterson, and Raiatea Helm.
In addition to learning one or two songs from the artists, including the translations and correct pronunciations of Hawaiian lyrics, the audience is encouraged to share personal stories and ask about the song`s background, including what inspired them and if there is any history or kaona (hidden meanings) behind them.
Location: Kauai Beach Resort
Waimea Town Celebration – Every February on Kauai’s West Side
Each February, the historic plantation town of Waimea hosts Kauai’s largest and longest-running festival — a multi-day celebration honoring the area’s rich culture and history, including the arrival of Captain Cook and the legacy of King Kaumualii.
The week-long event packs in concerts, hula, lei-making, ukulele contests, canoe races, marathons, paniolo events, and a classic carnival with local food vendors, rides, and games. The Historic Waimea Theater typically hosts special evenings featuring film, music, and cultural performances. Many events are free, and the whole celebration is rooted in genuine community spirit rather than tourist pageantry — a rare and welcome thing.
Location: Waimea, 19 miles from Poipu
Kauai Community Players
Since 1962, the Kauai Community Players have been the beating heart of live theater on the island — a beloved institution that draws local actors, musicians, directors, and designers together for productions ranging from classic plays to contemporary musicals. Their home, the Puhi Theatrical Warehouse, is a beautifully renovated space with a 200-seat auditorium, full lighting and sound, and all the backstage trappings of a proper theater.
Beyond performances, KCP offers theater workshops for children and acting classes for adults, keeping the arts alive and accessible across generations. Tickets can be purchased online or at the box office — buy in advance, as shows sell out regularly.
Location: Puhi (14 miles from Poipu)
Phone: 808-245-7700
Movies Filmed on Kauai
Kauai’s breathtaking beauty, diverse landscapes, and lush jungles have made it a favorite filming location for Hollywood for decades. From towering cliffs to golden beaches, the island has played stand-in for Central America, Africa, Polynesia, and even the mythical planet of Avatar.
Here’s a look at some of the blockbuster films and classic favorites that chose Kauai as their stunning backdrop:
Major Blockbusters
Jurassic Park Series (Jurassic Park I, The Lost World, Jurassic Park III, Jurassic World)
– Kauai’s thick rainforests and dramatic valleys were the perfect setting for Isla Nublar’s dinosaur adventures.
Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides
– The crew brought Captain Jack Sparrow to Kauai’s remote beaches and towering waterfalls.
Avatar
– James Cameron used the island’s lush landscapes as part of the inspiration and scenery for Pandora.
Raiders of the Lost Ark
– The famous opening jungle chase scene was filmed in Kauai’s Huleia National Wildlife Refuge.
King Kong (1976 version)
– Hanapepe Valley was transformed into Skull Island.
Heartfelt Favorites
The Descendants
– This Academy Award-winning film starring George Clooney captures modern-day life on Kauai.
Soul Surfer
– The inspiring true story of surfer Bethany Hamilton was filmed on Kauai’s beautiful beaches.
Six Days, Seven Nights
– Harrison Ford and Anne Heche crash-land on a deserted tropical island — played, of course, by Kauai.
Tropic Thunder
– This comedy adventure used the rugged Kauai landscape to hilarious effect.
Family-Friendly Classics
Disney’s Lilo & Stitch
– While animated, the town of Hanapepe heavily inspired the movie’s setting.
Blue Hawaii
– Elvis Presley’s iconic movie features scenes filmed along Kauai’s Coconut Coast.
South Pacific
– The beaches and mountains of Kauai starred as the island of Bali Hai.
Hidden Gems and Vintage Hits
Hook
– Steven Spielberg’s magical retelling of Peter Pan made use of Kauai’s dramatic cliffs.
Mighty Joe Young
– This giant gorilla tale included several jungle scenes filmed on island.
Donovan’s Reef
– John Wayne’s 1963 classic was filmed here, showcasing the relaxed island life.
Outbreak
– Dustin Hoffman’s race to stop a deadly virus included Kauai jungle scenes doubling for Africa.
Plan Your Own Movie Tour!
Many visitors love to explore the film sites while vacationing on Kauai. Popular spots like Allerton Garden, Hanalei Bay, and the Nā Pali Coast are recognizable the moment you see them.
Tip: Some local tour companies even offer “Hollywood Movie Tours” if you want to sit back, relax, and soak it all in.
Kauai’s Nightlife
Kauai is known for its beautiful natural scenery, but when the sun goes down, there are still plenty of exciting things to do. Some of Kauai`s bars offer live entertainment on a regular basis, from hula shows to live music. Here are some of the best bars on Kauai to visit if you`re looking for a fun night out with live entertainment:
1. Tahiti Nui: This iconic bar in Hanalei has been around for over 50 years and is known for its lively atmosphere and live music. The bar features a stage that hosts local musicians, making it a great spot to enjoy some island-style tunes with a fun crowd. They have live music almost every night of the week, with a variety of genres from Reggae to Rock.
2. Duke’s Kauai: This beachfront bar and restaurant, located in Lihue, is a great spot to grab a drink and enjoy live music on select evenings. They offer daily live music from 4 pm to 6 pm at the Barefoot bar, where you can enjoy some Hawaiian music and hula dancers with a beautiful view of Kalapaki Beach.
3. Kalapaki Joe’s: This sports bar is located in Lihue and offers live music on select nights of the week. They have a huge selection of beers, along with delicious pub fare and a great atmosphere that makes it a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
4. Trees Lounge: Located in Kapaa, Trees Lounge is a fun place to hang out with friends and listen to some live music. They have a varied schedule of events, including local live music acts and karaoke nights. There is always a lively crowd here, making it a great spot to meet new people and have some fun.
5. Rob’s Good Times Grill: Located in Lihue, this bar is a favorite among locals for its live music and karaoke nights. They have daily live music starting at 6 pm, along with karaoke on select nights. The bar has a fun, casual atmosphere, making it a great spot for a night out with friends. In conclusion, if you’re looking for live entertainment on Kauai, these bars are some of the best places to go. The lively atmosphere and talented performers make for a fun night out that you won`t soon forget.