When planning for a trip to Hawaii, if your like most people you look at the islands of Oahu, Maui, or maybe the Big Island. If you do not include the island of Kauai on you list, you may be missing the most perfect vacation getaway. Known as the the "garden island", Kauai is the oldest island in the Hawaiian chain, and for the people who have visited there, most say it is the best. The island is synonymous with beauty; with lush jungle mountains, stunning waterfalls, remote white sand beaches, and some of the friendliest people you will ever meet. It's location as the northern most island, and over 80% of the island unreachable by road, give it a a feel that you have paradise all to yourself. Words cannot describe the simple beauty of this island, but National Geographic continues to vote this tiny island in the Pacific as one of the Top 50 Places in the World to Visit, Live and Play. Here are just a few of best places to see and experience if your lucky enough to visit this paradise. After exploring Kauai, you too may just forget about the rest of the world.
Waimea Canyon State Park
Waimea is the largest canyon in the Pacific and will undoubtedly capture your gaze, with its 10 mile long stretch at a mile wide and measuring more than 3500 feet deep. The history of Kauai can be seen in the walls and crags of the canyon as you explore the more than 45 miles of trails. This is a truly remarkable sight, offering numerous scenic overlooks and photo opportunities.
Surrounding the Waimea Canyon is the Kokee State Park which occupies 4345 acres. Norfork pines, Koa hardwoods, native plants and wildlife are just a small fraction of what you will see here. A great way to explore the canyon and state park is to hit the trails. There are dozens of hiking trails for every level of expertise. A popular hike is the Pihea Alakai Boardwalk Trail, which is a must do while visiting Kauai. This hike is a challenging yet rewarding hike that will take you to the edge of one of the most spectacular valleys and on a clear day vistas of Hanalei Bay and as far as the Kilauea Light House.
The Napali Coast
The Napali Coast is a fifteen mile coastline that stretches from the north end of the island at Kee beach to the west side at Polihale beach. The Napali coast is accessible only by boat with the exception of the 12 mile stretch of coastline along the Kalalau Trail. This remarkable coast carved out by years of erosion is made up of sheer sea cliffs rising to heights of 4000 feet, hanging valleys, sea caves, and cascading waterfalls that make their way to the ocean from thousands of feet above.
The Kakakau Trail provides the only land access to the Napali Coast. The trail begins at Kee Beach in Haena and ending after a challenging 11 miles at Kalalau Beach. The 11-mile trail is graded but almost never level as it crisscrosses above towering sea cliffs and through lush valleys, dropping to sea level on the beaches of Hanakapiai and Kaalau. Don your hiking shoes and trek the first two miles into Hanakapiai Beach, kayak the coast during the calm of the summer months or book a boat or helicopter trip to experience one of the many wonders of Kauai.
Wailua Falls
The Wailua Falls are one of Kauai's little secrets known not only for its flowing beauty, but also ease of access. This 140 foot waterfall appears on many postcards, print, and media collections and was used as the opening scene on the Television series Fantasy Island. These easy to photograph falls will involve no hiking. The size and the appearance of the falls is determined by the amount of rainfall further up the mountains.
Hanalei Valley and the North Shore
The valley is one of the most beautiful and lush places in all Hawaii and some argue the world. Hanalei is surrounded by majestic mountains and countless cascading waterfalls that drain into the lush valley, taro fields, and rivers below. If that doesn't bring you to your senses then perhaps Hanalei Bay with its perfect swimming waves and soft white sands may entice you. You will also want to spend some time on the Hanalei Bay and explore the eight mile scenic drive from the town of Hanalei to the end of the road at Kee Beach.
Polihale Beach
This stunning beach is the longest stretch of white sand beach in Hawaii. Located at the end of an old dirt cane haul road off the last stretch of highway on the West Side. This is a favorite and beautiful beach for long walks, amazing sunsets and camping with the proper permits. Ocean conditions can be dangerous especially during the winter months. Polihale is exposed to the open ocean with no protective reefs and no lifeguard.
Along with all these natural wonders there are numerous activities and fun things to do. So experience Kauai for yourself and create your own Best of Kauai List.
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