The oldest and the most Northern of the Hawaiian island chain, Kauai is an enchanted garden of ancient beaches and fruit laden jungles. Known for its natural beauty and slower pace, Kauai is where you want to come to unwind and get a little closer to the earth. The island does not offer the nightlife that its neighbor islands do, making Kauai vacation rentals a great choice of accommodation during your stay. Very often located on or close to the beach, you can stroll back to your rental after sunset and enjoy a mellow night in your tropical ‘home’. Despite its overall laid back feeling, the island does offer some great night time entertainment as well as some pretty intense adventures. Here’s a list to get you started as you experience the magic of the Garden Isle.
History
1. Kauai Museum
Tucked away in the bustle of Lihue, the Kauai Museum is a treasure trove of history and information about the Hawaii’s fascinating past. Their permanent collection houses all kinds of artifacts from the days when the Hawaiian people subsisted through rock tools, hunting and gathering. You’ll learn about their sophisticated civilization that was built through simple means. Also on display are rotating exhibits featuring the works of modern Hawaiian artists.
Adventure
2. Na Pali Coast Hike
Meander along the towering cliffs of Na Pali on Kauai’s North Shore, winding through fertile valleys overlooking the vast Pacific from great heights. Not for the faint of heart, this legendary trail can be hiked in stages. Its ultimate destination is Kalalau Valley, a rugged 11 mile (one way) hike by permit only. Hike the first 2 miles of the trail to beautiful Hanakapiai Beach and get a taste of this remote coastline.
Shopping
3. Old Kapaa Town
Park the car and get out and walk around Old Kapaa Town. This northern end of the Kapaa stretch is filled with small shops, quaint restaurants and ocean breezes. When you want a little breather from browsing, walk one block East and you’ll find yourself on the Kauai Path, a paved thoroughfare that borders the sand and ocean. Nothing like shopping in paradise!
Hawaiian Culture
4. Luau at Smith Tropical Garden
Everyone loves a luau and Smith’s Tropical Garden has been offering their version for over 50 years on the sacred Wailua River. It’s a family affair here, where the Smith family carries on the tradition of sharing food, music and dance in a setting complete with a fern grotto. You’ll learn history of the Hawaiian’s as well as hear the tales of the ancient area of Wailua.
Entertainment
5.Tune in to the local radio stations
Entertainment may be sporadic on Kauai, but you’re most likely to hear what is happening during your stay by tuning in to the local radio stations. Kauai is home to the only full powered community radio station, KKCR-FM, where you’ll hear local talk programs, jazz, bluegrass, rock, world and plenty of Hawaiian music in the mornings. KQNG-FM is also another local favorite. The music is more in the mainstream genre, but the mornings with DJ-icon, Ron Wiley, will bring you to the pulse of the island and offer a laugh or two.
Family
6. Lydgate Beach Park
A great beach park for the whole family, Lydgate offers a lifeguarded beach good for snorkeling and swimming. The Kauai Path runs along the coastline, making a smooth route for walkers, joggers, bikers and strollers. Nearby Kamalani Park is the result of a community effort to build an original play scape full of ladders, slides and artistic flair.
7. Explore Kokee
In the high altitude of Kauai’s West side, Kokee is home to native hardwoods, rare and endangered flora and a variety of trails suitable for the whole family. The air is crisp and cool here with plenty of space for picnics and naps in the shade of towering trees. Stop at the Kokee Museum to learn more about Kauai and receive maps on the hiking options available. Drive to the end of the road to get a spectacular view of Kalalau Valley from above. Wow!
Seasonal
8. Whale Watch
It’s that time of year when the whales are at their peak of activity in Hawaiian waters. Jumping, breaching, splashing, mating and birthing their young, Humpback whales come to Hawaii every year to carry out this ancient tradition paramount to their survival. View these incredible animals up close at sea through a boat tour geared toward experiencing whales in their environment. Capt. Andy’s Sailing Adventures has been taking visitors on guided explorations for decades. Their boats offer hydrophones so you can hear the whale songs as they ’sing’ to one another underwater.
Beach
9.Hanalei Bay
This beach has been a source of inspiration for songs and art for eons. A wide and long stretch of beach on Kauai’s North shore, there’s plenty of room to find a spot for yourself and spend the day. Great for sunsets and long walks, it’s also a favorite in the winter for serious surfers. When conditions are small, it’s ideal for young swimmers, too. The nearby village of Hanalei is within walking distance and has a vibe all its own.
10. Mahaulepu
This South shore refuge is a living history rich with the geology of the island. The oceanside Mahaulepu Heritage Trail wanders through millions of years of rock and sand in a dramatic display of time. Get the map for this family walk through the Poipu Beach Resort Association. You can also skip the hike and go straight to the beach. Remote and out of the way, Mahaulepu Beach offers quiet alcoves and sunny seas.