Often referred to as "The Garden Island," the mountainous island of Kauai is a tropical paradise unlike any other in the world. Whether you're an avid surfer or are simply searching for an exotic getaway, the white sandy beaches and luscious jungles of Kauai are certain to exceed your expectations. Here are 10 quick tips to help transform your trip to the Garden Island into the epic vacation of a lifetime!
1. Hit the beach!
Kauai is home to fifty miles of picturesque white sandy beaches, providing opportunities for sunbathing, snorkeling, boogie boarding, and other activities without the major crowds of the more populated islands. All sides of the landmass have superb beaches, lagoons, and reefs; don't wait to explore the scenic coastline.
2. Explore the Extraordinary Gardens of the Garden Island
Kauai is home to three of America's five National Tropical Botanical Gardens. McBryde Garden houses the largest collection of native Hawaiian flora on the planet, while the Allerton Garden is home to the magnificent Moreton Fig trees which were made famous in the film 'Jurassic Park'. All are open to tours and are a fantastic place to pass an afternoon.
3. Check out Waimea Canyon
On the western side of the island lies Waimea Canyon, "The Grand Canyon of the Pacific." Over a mile wide and 3,000 feet deep, the canyon is a geological wonder and one of the true gems of Kauai. Tours are available to take visitors right to the edge of the multi-hued steep cliffs of the canyon, providing excellent views of the entire western shoreline.
4. Explore the Holo Holo Koloa Scenic Byway
This 19-mile scenic road stretches along the magnificent coastline of the Koloa Plain on the South Shore of the island. The road links historic and culturally significant sites with modern attractions such as the Allerton and McBryde Gardens, providing visitors with a scenic drive and fantastic way to pass the afternoon.
5. Check Out the Kauai Nightlife
After the sun fades over the western shore of Kauai, the island comes to life. Most restaurants, resorts, and lounges offer live Hawaiian music Thursday-Sunday, and each town has hot spots that begin to heat up after dark.
6. Take a Boat or Helicopter Tour
The Hawaiian Islands offer some of the most breathtaking scenery in all of the world, and Kauai may just be the most beautiful of all. Tours are available with numerous boating, sailing, and helicopter companies which provide a spectacular view of the island. These affordable experiences create memories that are sure to last a lifetime.
7. Treat Yourself at a World Class Spa
There are numerous world-class day spas on the island, each offering a wide range of amenities. There are not many better ways to relax than a four-hand massage by the beach at the renowned Hanalei Day Spa.
8. Surf's up!
Kauai's beaches have produced some of the best amateur and professional surfers of all time. Swells vary in size at different beaches and throughout the year, but during the winter months waves on the North Shore become much larger and attract world-class surfers.
9. Discover Kauai's Cuisine
Hotels and resorts may have quality dining options available, but visitors of the island will be rewarded if they venture out and explore the local restaurants and eateries that Kauai has to offer. Using only the freshest local ingredients and Kauai-caught fish, we recommend Merriman's Fish House if you're on the South Side of the island.
10. Prepare for Incremental Weather
Kauai is often referred to as the wettest spot on Earth, and the rainy season from November-March often brings daily showers. In the more mountainous regions the temperatures drop in the evenings, it's best to be prepared and bring a jacket and proper clothing so your experience isn't dampened by the weather.
Use these 10 quick tips to maximize your enjoyment of the island and have a truly epic vacation on Kauai!