Kauaʻi is Hawaiʻi's fourth largest island and is sometimes called the "Garden Island," which is an entirely accurate description. The oldest and northernmost island in the Hawaiian chain is draped in emerald valleys, sharp mountain spires and jagged cliffs aged by time and the elements. Centuries of growth have formed tropical rainforests, forking rivers and cascading waterfalls! Some parts of Kauaʻi are only accessible by sea or air, revealing views beyond your imagination. More than just dramatic beauty, the island is home to a variety of outdoor activities. You can kayak the Wailua River, snorkel on Poʻipū Beach, hike the trails of Kōkeʻe State Park, or go ziplining above Kauaʻi's lush valleys. But, it is the island's laid-back atmosphere and rich culture found in its small towns that make it truly timeless. Explore the regions of Kauaʻi and make your escape to discover the undeniable allure of the isla.

TOP PLACES TO VISIT

Hanalei Valley

Discover the Timeless Beauty of Hanalei Valley

Nestled on the enchanting north shore of Kauai, Hanalei Valley beckons travelers with its lush landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and breathtaking vistas. Step into a world where emerald mountains meet the sparkling waters of the Pacific Ocean, where tradition and modernity intertwine seamlessly, creating an unforgettable destination for exploration and relaxation.

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A Tapestry of Natural Beauty

Hanalei Valley is a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. Immerse yourself in the verdant beauty of the valley, where verdant taro fields carpet the landscape in vibrant shades of green, and cascading waterfalls tumble down sheer cliffs into tranquil pools below. Explore the valley's hidden gems on scenic hikes, where panoramic views of towering mountains and pristine beaches await at every turn.

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Rich Cultural Heritage

Discover the timeless traditions and rich cultural heritage of Hanalei Valley, where the spirit of aloha permeates every aspect of life. Delve into the valley's storied past through visits to historic sites, ancient fishponds, and traditional taro patches, where the legacy of Hawaiian ancestors lives on. Experience the warmth and hospitality of local communities, where music, dance, and storytelling offer a glimpse into the heart and soul of Kauai.

Na Palo Coast State Park

Kauai is known as Hawaii’s “Garden Isle” due to its spectacular and untouched nature. Na Pali is the most famous trek in Hawaii and takes in impressive cliffs, bare-naked beaches, and magical waterfalls.

Hanakapiai Falls

LOCATION

Hanakapiai Falls is situated deep within the lush and rugged terrain of the Na Pali Coast, which is only accessible via hiking trails. The trailhead for Hanakapiai Falls is located at Ke'e Beach on the north shore of Kauai. Permits are required to access

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Hiking Trail

The hike to Hanakapiai Falls is approximately 8 miles round trip (out and back) and is considered moderately difficult. The trail follows the Hanakapiai Stream through dense tropical forest, crossing several streams along the way. Hikers should be prepared for muddy and slippery conditions, especially after rainfall.

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Scenic Beauty

Despite the challenging hike, Hanakapiai Falls rewards hikers with breathtaking natural beauty. The waterfall cascades down a sheer cliff face into a tranquil pool below, surrounded by lush vegetation and towering cliffs. The scene is truly picturesque and offers a serene escape into the heart of Kauai's wilderness.

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Overall, visiting Hanakapiai Falls offers a memorable and rewarding outdoor adventure for those willing to explore the natural beauty of Kauai's Na Pali Coast. 

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• Hanalei-Surf
• Surf-Lessons
• Sunset-Surf

Wailua-Falls

Dramatic waterfalls that are easily accessible at North of Līhuʻe, at the south end of the Wailua River. Wailua Falls, just north of Līhuʻe, is a step off the beaten path. Located at the south end of the Wailua River, it cascades into two streams, dropping 80 feet below. Some even say the distance is more accurately described as 200 feet. Perhaps this is because the size and appearance of the falls is determined by the amount of rainfall farther up the mountains.

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Like other spectacular spots on Kauaʻi used as film locations, Wailua Falls is most recognized in the opening credits of the long-running television show “Fantasy Island.” Easily accessible, Wailua Falls can be seen from the roadside, so you can leave your hiking boots behind. To get there, head north from Līhuʻe and follow Maʻalo Road in Hanamā‘ulu. Travel uphill for about 3 miles. If you visit in the mornings, you may be treated to a rainbow as the sunlight meets the mist of the falls, which makes for an amazing photo opportunity.

Hoopii Falls

Hoʻopiʻi Falls are a series of waterfalls along the Kapaʻa Stream, located near the Kapaʻa town on the east shore. The falls were used as a filming location in Jurassic Park.

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In-Estate- Massage:

We offer the absolute best massage therapists available

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In-Estate-Luau:

We offer the absolute best luau performances and fire shows available

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In-Estate-Yoga:

We offer the absolute best yoga instructors available

Jungle-Locations

Kauai, often referred to as the "Garden Isle," is renowned for its lush jungles and pristine natural beauty. Here's a glimpse into the jungles and verdant landscapes of Kauai:

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Waimea Canyon State Park

While known for its stunning canyon vistas, Waimea Canyon is also surrounded by dense jungle foliage. Trails like the Waipo‘o Falls Trail lead hikers through lush forests, where native flora and fauna thrive in the canyon's rich soil and abundant rainfall.

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Na Pali Coast

Along the rugged Na Pali Coast, dense jungles cling to steep cliffs, creating a dramatic backdrop for adventurers exploring by foot or by boat. Hidden waterfalls cascade down the cliffsides, and lush valleys offer a glimpse into Kauai's untouched wilderness.

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Alakai Swamp

Located in the heart of Kauai, the Alakai Swamp is one of the wettest places on earth and home to a unique montane bog ecosystem. Visitors can hike along boardwalk trails through moss-draped forests, surrounded by native plants like 'ohi'a lehua and native birds like the 'apapane.

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Hanalei Valley

The fertile Hanalei Valley is blanketed in verdant jungle foliage, with taro fields, tropical fruit orchards, and lush forests lining the valley floor. Scenic overlooks offer panoramic views of the valley's jungle-clad mountains and the meandering Hanalei River.

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Wailua River Valley

The Wailua River Valley is another jungle-filled paradise on Kauai, with dense forests flanking the riverbanks. Visitors can explore the valley by kayak or boat, venturing into hidden fern grottos and ancient Hawaiian cultural sites nestled within the jungle.

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Koke'e State Park

In the uplands of Kauai, Koke'e State Park boasts miles of hiking trails winding through misty forests and towering 'ohi'a trees. The park is home to native Hawaiian plants like the rare Kauai bog violet and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding jungle-covered mountains.

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Limahuli Garden and Preserve

This botanical garden on Kauai's north shore showcases the island's diverse native plant species, many of which are found in lush jungle environments. Visitors can wander through tropical gardens, ancient taro terraces, and dense jungle groves while learning about Kauai's unique ecosystems.

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Sunshine-Farmers-Market

“Lucky we live Kauai” is a saying here. It’s flecked with pidgin, which makes it fun, but I think it every day. Kauai’s blessings are many, and one of them is our farmers markets, which are open 365 days a year.

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All markets are outdoors, and some are against dreamy backdrops of mountains, valleys or oceans. Farmers markets are the easiest way to buy super fresh and tasty produce.

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The most popular farmers market in Kauai is on the North Shore in Hanalei. In fact, the Hanalei farmers market was voted one of the Top 5 farmers markets in Hawaii magazine’s Readers Choice Awards. Kilauea, on Kauai’s North Shore, hosts several markets. Kilauea farmers market is held every Thursday and is sponsored by the County of Kauai. Namahana farmers market is located near Kauai Mini Golf and runs two days a week.

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TOP ACTIVITIES

World Class Surfing

Hawaii is a major site for professional surfers and big-wave riders. The north shore of Oahu has the legendary monster surf. Other hotspots include Hookipa Beach in Maui and the north shore of Kauai.

Princeville Makai Golf Course

With a gorgeous location on the north coast of beautiful Kauai, this Robert Trent Jones Jr. designed course features mountain scenery and six holes on the oceanfront.

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Princeville Makai Golf Course, Mr. Robert Trent Jones Jr. first ever solo design, is truly one of the world's most stunning golf and resort location! Makai Course is ranked amongst the Top 100 Greatest Public Golf Courses in America, by Golf Digest, within the Top 3 Best Courses You Can Play in Hawaii by GolfWeek and being named to the list of America's "Top 5 Great Golf Settings" in the world by National Geographic Traveler.

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With our immaculate course conditions and six ocean front holes, and amazing "Aloha Spirit" it is impossible for any other golf course on the Hawaiian islands to rival Princeville Makai's true Hawaiian Golf Adventure! In addition to golf, Princeville Makai Golf Club is also home to Sunset Golf Cart Tours, the Mauka Disc Golf Course, Sunrise Yoga, a popular Tennis facility and many jaw dropping sites for banquets and special celebrations.

Wildlife Tours

Hawaii is home to a variety of rare and endangered species thanks to its rich and varied ecosystem. Sea experiences include whales, turtles, and dolphins while land tours include a colorful spectrum of tropical birds.

Sailing & Yacht Charters

With near year-round trade winds, Hawaii is a great location for those who wish to explore the islands in a yacht. A range of sailing and motor charters are available for a perfect sunny afternoon at sea.

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Many tour operators on Kauai offer boat tours specifically tailored to exploring the Na Pali Coast. These tours typically depart from the west side of the island, such as Port Allen/ Waimea (ALL YEAR LONG) or nearby locations like Hanalei Bay (May - Sept) on the north shore. Some tours include amenities like snorkeling equipment, meals, and knowledgeable guides who provide insights into the area's history and marine life. Smaller boats under 35’ can often access sea caves in the summer months condition dependent. This is always a highlight.

Sunset Cruises

Sunset cruises along the Na Pali Coast offer a romantic and magical experience, as the cliffs are bathed in golden light. Many tour operators that leave from Port Allen in large catamarans offer sunset cruises that include dinner or appetizers, allowing you to enjoy the beauty of the coast as the day comes to a close.

Snorkeling

Boating excursions along the Na Pali Coast often include opportunities for snorkeling. Snorkeling is often done where you can swim among colorful fish, sea turtles, and other marine creatures.

Horseback Riding

With soaring mountain peaks, lush valleys, and gorgeous beaches, Hawaii is a wonderful spot for a scenic horseback ride. Tours are available on all of the islands with some offering horseback riding tours along the beach.

Deep-Sea Fishing

Hawaii is a great destination for a deep-sea fishing adventure, whether you want a relaxing day at sea or some serious game fishing. Expect to find marlin, yellowfin tuna, and dorado to name a few.

ATV-Adventure

Join us for one of our Kauai off-road tours with our premium ATVs. You’ll see lovely ocean views, famous filming locations, Wilcox Tunnel, and all the natural beauty of the Waita Reservoir. Experience the fun of catch and release fishing with traditional bamboo poles. Enjoy the best of Kauai on this 3 hour tour from your own Polaris off-road vehicle! Beverages and locally-made granola are included on the three-hour Kauai off-road ATV tour.

Waterfall Triple Trail Expedition

Waterfall Triple Trail Expedition holds nothing back. Here you’ll find well-maintained top of the line ultra-smooth suspension vehicles.  At nearly double the mileage of our signature tour; we look forward to showing you top quality adventure touring at its finest. A well thought out and crafted route is where great expeditions begin; we have mapped out just that. Traversing the best open view, mountain, and jungle sections of all three of our trail systems combined into one epic trip.

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Our experienced guides will lead you through our expansive 3,000-acre trail system on a working cattle ranch, which is full of breathtaking scenery, blockbuster movie hits, cultural history, and Hawaiian legends. You will navigate your own vehicle throughout the different trails and obstacles to our private waterfall, bamboo jungles, and much more! All vehicle features and terrain obstacles are exciting enough to challenge and thrill beginners to intermediate levels of off-road enthusiasts.

This is also a swimming tour, so be sure to pack towels and wear a swimsuit under your riding clothes. We provide helmets, goggles, bandanas, and a light snack. Closed-toe footwear will be required while swimming. We recommend reef-safe sunscreen and natural locally made insect repellent as well.

Scenic Tour

Join us for a beautiful and breathtaking 3-hour Kauai off-road scenic tour. With diverse landscape, abundant wildlife, and spectacular views makes it one of the premier eco-tour locations in Hawaii. Ride through lush green pastures, venture down into tropical Hule’ia Valley, and ascend under the canopy of the rainforest, as it leads you to the breathtaking backdrop of Mt. Haupu, Kauai’s untouched paradise.  Enjoy the historic landscape with photos of famous movie location backdrops such as Jurassic Park, Mighty Joe Young, Lilo & Stitch, and The Descendants. 

Waterfall Rappel Adventure

It’s not zip lining, it’s not rock climbing… it’s rappelling!

This guided rappel tour takes place on our private property that overlooks the Hule’ia watershed and Ha’upu Mountain range and has two SECRET waterfalls. After a detailed rappel safety lesson, and a practice run on the drywall, guests hike to two secluded waterfalls. We will first rappel the cascading 30′ Bamboo Falls, followed by the towering 60’ Papakolea Falls. Guaranteed to be the most unique experience of your vacation! 

Zipline-Adventure

1: Imagine the thrill of a zipline tour in one of the most beautiful places in the world!  Get up-close with Mt. Wai’ale’ale, deemed one of the wettest spots in the world and the second highest point on the island of Kaua’i. Mt. Wai’ale’ale, with many spectacular waterfalls, is your backdrop as you fly through the air, down a stunning mountainside and over a lush tropical rainforest. With exclusive access to over 17,000 acres of former plantation lands, we offer you a truly unique Kaua’i zipline experience!

Your adventure begins with a fun, informative, scenic ride in our four-wheel drive vehicle. Along the way, your certified guide shares interesting information on island history, culture, flora, and fauna. When you arrive at the first zipline, you receive a thorough briefing, preparing you to soar over tropical forests, streams, and jungles rich with magnificent scenery! Zoom down the mountainside, sailing along on a series of seven ziplines, as you make your way to the valley floor below.

End your zipline tour with a refreshing mountain swim and a delicious lunch under a quiet bamboo grove. Relax, bask in the sun, and soak in the beauty that surrounds you. Take one last dip in our cool mountain swimming hole before heading back to home base! This is truly an incredible journey that leaves you with vacation memories to last a lifetime.

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2: The longest ziplines, and the most unique ziplines — ten lines, four different tours — including tandem, single, superman, seated and even water-zips. And, if you want to, you can even soar upside-down on Kauai’s only pendulum zipline!  Recently, we launched our 3/4 mile long FlyLine…  it’s Kauai’s longest Zipline by far-  the local’s choice!

Ride amazing and thrilling ziplines over scenes so beautiful they were featured in blockbuster movies like Jurassic Park, Raiders of the Lost Ark, and Pirates of the Caribbean.

Your friendly guides will make sure you have the most fun, exciting adventure you’ve ever been on. They’ll share local island knowledge with you…from natural history and folklore to their fave restaurants and food trucks.

Each zipline tour is unique as our lines vary by size, skill-level, and terrain, so there’s a tour for everyone!

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3: The longest ziplining tour in Kauai, including three of the longest individual ziplines on the island! Fly upside down, hands-free, backward, tandem, or superhero style for the ultimate thrill ziplining in Koloa. As you zip along, take in the breathtaking beauty of Kauai’s South Shore, including a lush jungle, the Hoary Head Mountain Range, the Waita Reservoir, and the Koloa Sugar Mill.

Mountain-Tubing-Tour

Witness Kauai’s spectacular, historic engineering feats as you float down the open canals and through five amazing tunnels and flumes engineered and hand-dug circa 1870!

This tubing adventure is perfect for people ages 5 and over and in generally good physical condition. The gently flowing waters, beautiful scenery, flumes, and tunnels create a relaxing, fun, and fascinating experience. And when we say we are unique, we mean it! This is the only tubing activity of this type on Kaua’i, and we are the only eco-tour company with access to these 17,000 acres of former plantation lands.

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Hop on one of our four-wheel-drive vehicles and traverse the former Lihue Plantation lands as we ride deep into Kauai’s pristine emerald, green interior, where your tubing adventure begins! When you arrive at our launch site, grab a tube, don a headlamp, and jump in the gently flowing waters.

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Enjoy the wonder and magic of each tunnel illuminated by your headlamp. At the end of your adventure, you are guided to an enchanted picnic area nearby for a delicious lunch and a cool dip in a natural swimming hole. There’s no better way to experience the Kauai mountains!

Helicopter flights

Highly recommended. There are few helicopter experiences on earth that could be compared to a 45-55 min sightseeing flight on Kauai. Helicopter trips are exceptionally great on Kauai for several compelling reasons:

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• Scenic Beauty: Kauai is renowned for its breathtaking natural landscapes, including lush valleys, cascading waterfalls, rugged sea cliffs, and pristine beaches. A helicopter provides unparalleled aerial views, allowing you to take in the island's stunning beauty from a unique perspective.
• Accessibility to Remote Areas: Much of Kauai's interior is inaccessible by road, making helicopter tours the ideal way to explore remote and inaccessible areas of the island. From the towering sea cliffs of the Na Pali Coast to the hidden valleys of Waimea Canyon, helicopters provide access to some of Kauai's most awe-inspiring sights.
• Informative Commentary: Experienced helicopter pilots often serve as knowledgeable guides, offering informative commentary throughout the tour. They share insights into Kauai's geology, history, culture, and ecology, enriching your experience and providing a deeper understanding of the island's natural wonders.
• Photography Opportunities: Helicopter tours offer unparalleled opportunities for photography enthusiasts to capture stunning aerial shots of Kauai's scenic landscapes. From majestic waterfalls to colorful coral reefs, the bird's-eye view provided by helicopters allows for unique and captivating photographs.
• Luxurious Experience: Many helicopter tour companies on Kauai offer luxurious amenities and services, ensuring a comfortable and memorable experience for passengers. From state-of-the-art helicopters with large viewing windows to attentive staff and personalized service, helicopter tours provide a first-class experience for visitors.

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Private-Chef-App

Often the best meals that happen on Kauai are in-estate. Over a 20 year period Pure Kauai has created a vibrant underground chef scene. Often the best chefs available on island are found in our private villas. Although we have excellent connections, fine dining establishments are limited and reservations are exclusive. Most of our guest prefer the best meals available in the privacy of their accommodations.

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Our chefs are professionally culinary trained and source their ingredients from local farmers, fisherman. Menus are custom created based on guest dietary needs and preferences. The common theme is pacific rim fusion but almost any style of food can be accommodated. 

Farm to Fork Tour: Local Grown Culinary Experience

Alongside your tour guide, you'll navigate the largest gathering of local farmers on Kauai and select fresh island ingredients for your Ohana meal. The motto of the tour is "many hands make light work" and you will embody this motto as every pair on the tour assists in prepping the unique ingredients before combining everyone's efforts to create an amazing farm fresh baked meal to share. 

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Woven into the tour will be lots of Talk Story with the farmers, interesting local history and education on why food security is so important to Kaua'i and the State as a whole. The tour culminates in the chef-guided preparation and consumption of local recipes utilizing the just purchased local ingredients. 

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All participants will get their own grocery tote as a souvenir to remind them to buy local, wherever they go!

Botanical Gardens and Chocolate Tour

Our three-hour walking tour covers every corner of Princeville Botanical Gardens. Your friendly guide will share stories of the gardens’ development and a wealth of fascinating information about the plants. Samples of seasonal fruit samples and homemade honey will keep your energy up as you explore our lush valleys.

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This tour also includes a half-hour chocolate tasting during which you’ll learn about the cacao tree and the history of chocolate making while sampling delicious gourmet chocolates from around the world.

Private Polynesian Luau Performance

Kaua’i’s best Lū’au experience features one of the islands favorite families of entertainment. The Punua family has a history of Hawai’ian shows and Hula instruction on Kaua’i for over 50 years, spanning three generations.

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The family originally performed at the Kaua’i surf Hotel from 1961 through 1974, featuring Vic and Ku’ulei Punua Polynesian shows. Now directed by their children Wallis and Shana, this dance company has won many 1st place awards in Hawai’i’s statewide competitions, as well as entertaining thousands of visitors and has performed for the world’s biggest celebrities.

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Pair one of the following performances with a traditional private chef meal, and your group will have the most authentic, intimate Lū'au experience available on Kaua'i. Bring the Lū'au to you!

Lei Making Workshop

We work with a lovely group of young local women who make lei (traditional flower adornments for neck) and lei po’o (crown-style lei) professionally. They lead workshops for schools and private groups. They provide the blossoms, give tutorial and enjoy assisting the learning process. The best part is, you can wear or exchange your creations and they last days when preserved correctly. Book a photographer to capture candid moments and then portraits with your own creations! 

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Hula Workshop with Fern

Hula is an ancient oral history of Hawai'i expressed energetically through Mele (songs) and dance. Learn about Hula, what it is and how it came to be. In the workshop you will learn songs and dance unique to Kaua'i. You will be provided with written materials to take away. You are welcome to record the songs and video the dance you learn to take this practice home with you. Experince more than just Kaua'i, experience the culture on your next vacation.

In-Home Massages & Facial

Enjoy Kauai's top massage therapists and estheticians in the comfort of your vacation home!

Psychic Intuitive Reading & Sound Healing

One on One Psychic Intuitive Readings & Sound Healing

Experience a private one on one session with the legendary Judea Star  in the comfort of your estate.

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Sessions begin with a 1.5 - 2 hour psychic reading (depending on personal needs). Typically sessions are started without prompts or questions. We go right in, and address energy pathways guided by spirit within the energy body, working with the chakra system specifically. 

This may reveal energy blocks, soul trauma, past life influences, and often come with messages from spirit guides who speak on what is most needed at this time for ones ultimate alignment. Much of the insights that come through will also be validating and empowering, reaffirming the areas that one is already thriving in. 

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You will be guided on how to understand their spirit body and how to recognize the patterns in which we hold energy directly reflect both positive and negative aspects of ones outward reality. By shifting, clearing, and replenishing the energy, we shift the quality of our reality and accelerate the potential of healing on all levels, physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual. 

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There is plenty of time for personal questions at the end of each session. We close the readings feeling more positivity, clarity, understanding, compassion, and empowerment on how to best navigate the journey forward. 

After an energy assessment, you will receive a personalized sound healing using a variety of instruments to re-align the energy pathways so one leaves feeling lighter, clearer, and more refreshed. The sound healing typically takes 20-30 minutes depending on ones needs.

Group Sound Bath

Enjoy a group sound bath in the comfort of your vacation home as a private setting. 

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This is an extensive experience, offering energy clearing with the power of sound. We would arrive 1+ hour prior to beginning for set up. Sound baths are approached as a ceremonial experience with guided meditation that include medicine songs, mantras, crystal singing bowls, crystal singing pyramids, chimes, Himalayan singing bowls, bells, gongs, drums and more! We can include ceremonial cacao for an extra fee.

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The Science Behind Healing

A traditional allopathic perspective is that sound is perceived through the ear. However, as more scientific evidence is emerging, researchers have found that sound is felt physically through vibrations in the body. These vibrations have been found to have a multitude of effects on a person. 

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Most Useful Benefits of Sound Baths or Sound Therapy are: 

• Triggers the relaxation response
• Reduces blood pressure
• Alleviates symptoms of chronic stress
• Releases and harmonizes the mind, body and spirit
• Invites one to experience joy, ease, happiness, and harmony states of being

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Training

• Private Yoga Instruction

Enjoy a complete yoga practice in the comfort of your vacation home.

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• Qi-Gong Instruction

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• Surf Lessons

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• Pilates Training

Mat Pilates strength and conditioning in the comfort of your vacation home. If you property does not have a gym on site, they will bring along the fitness tools needed for your session.

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• Fitness Training

Keep up with your health goals, by securing one of island top personal fitness trainers!

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• Swimming Instruction

One on one swim instruction for children, teens, and adults. Diane offers caring, patient, and safe instruction that will help even the most timid of swimmers learn to enjoy the water. Every beginner class starts with the basics, like becoming comfortable in the water and learning safety and basic strokes, then moves on to stroke development, refinement and improvement, then developing ease and efficiency in the water. 

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• Private Tennis Instruction

Welcome to tennis player’s paradise! Ranked one of the top 50 tennis resorts in the world, we offer the ideal tropical tennis getaway for registered Hanalei Bay Resort Guests and Tennis Members of all levels, with four artificial turf and four hard courts and a Peter Burwash International (PBI), a Troon company, tennis facility. Our resident PBI tennis pro offers private lessons.

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BEST BEACHES

Kauai is renowned for its breathtaking beaches, each offering its own unique charm and character. Here are some of the most notable beaches on the island:

Hanalei Bay

Consistently recognized as one of the best beaches in the USA, Hanalei Beach seems to personify island life in Hawaii. Located in Kauai, this crescent-shaped beach features golden sand, palm trees, and warm, crystal-clear sea water.

Located on Kauai's north shore, Hanalei Bay is one of the most picturesque beaches in Hawaii. It features a crescent-shaped bay surrounded by lush green mountains. The beach offers excellent swimming, snorkeling, and paddle boarding conditions, particularly during the summer months when the waters are calm.

Poipu Beach

Situated on the south shore, Poipu Beach is a favorite among families and snorkelers. It boasts a series of golden sand crescents, clear turquoise waters, and a protected swimming area known as "Baby Beach." Poipu Beach Park also offers picnic facilities, showers, and lifeguard services.

Ke'e Beach

Located at the end of the road on Kauai's north shore, Ke'e Beach is a stunning and tranquil spot ideal for swimming and snorkeling during the summer months. It provides access to the Kalalau Trail and offers breathtaking views of the Na Pali Coast. Permit required

Tunnels Beach (Makua Beach)

Also on the north shore, Tunnels Beach is renowned for its crystal-clear waters and excellent snorkeling opportunities. The beach is named after the underwater lava tubes that create a network of "tunnels" where diverse marine life thrives.

Polihale Beach

Situated on Kauai's west side, Polihale Beach is one of the island's most remote and expansive beaches. Accessible via a rough dirt road, this secluded stretch of golden sand offers stunning sunset views and a sense of serenity.

Lydgate Beach Park

Located on Kauai's east side near Lihue, Lydgate Beach Park is popular among families and snorkelers. The beach features two enclosed swimming areas created by lava rock walls, providing a safe and calm environment for swimming and snorkeling.

Anini Beach

Nestled on Kauai's north shore, Anini Beach is known for its tranquil shallow waters, making it ideal for swimming, windsurfing, and stand-up paddleboarding. The beach is protected by one of Hawaii's largest coral reefs, providing excellent snorkeling opportunities.

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RECOMMENDED RESTAURANTS

Sam's Ocean View

One of the best restaurants in Kapaa, Kauai, and has sensational views of the ocean. A great place for everyday good food including excellent fish and hand-made desserts.

Hukilau Lanai

Lovely restaurant on the oceanfront in Kauai. Serves great seafood with signature desserts of Hawaiian chocolate. Hukilau is known for its excellent service and fine-dining experience.

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FACTS AND TRAVEL TIPS

The history of Kauai, like that of all the Hawaiian Islands, is deeply rooted in the traditions and culture of the native Hawaiian people. Here's an overview of key points in Kauai's history:

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• Ancient Settlement

Kauai was likely settled by Polynesians who arrived in double-hulled canoes around 500-600 AD. These early settlers developed complex agricultural systems, constructed fishponds, and established social structures governed by chiefs.

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• Unification of the Hawaiian Islands

Kauai was one of the last islands to be unified under a single ruler. King Kamehameha I, also known as Kamehameha the Great, launched multiple unsuccessful invasions of Kauai in the late 18th and early 19th centuries. It wasn't until 1810, when King Kaumuali'i of Kauai peacefully surrendered to Kamehameha, that Kauai became part of the unified Kingdom of Hawaii.

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• Missionary Period

In the early 19th century, Christian missionaries from the United States arrived in Hawaii, including Kauai, bringing Christianity, Western education, and new agricultural practices. This period of influence significantly impacted Hawaiian culture and society.

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• Sugar Plantations

Like other Hawaiian Islands, Kauai's economy became dominated by the sugar industry in the mid-19th century. Immigrant labor, primarily from China, Japan, Portugal, and the Philippines, was brought in to work on the plantations. The sugar industry played a crucial role in shaping Kauai's demographic makeup and economy for over a century.

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• World War II

Kauai, like the rest of Hawaii, played a significant role in World War II. The island served as a strategic location for military installations and training grounds. The attack on Pearl Harbor in 1941 led to heightened military presence and defense measures on Kauai.

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• Tourism

After World War II, Hawaii, including Kauai, experienced a surge in tourism. The island's stunning natural beauty, lush landscapes, and pristine beaches attracted visitors from around the world. Tourism became a driving force in Kauai's economy, alongside agriculture.

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• Modern Development

In recent decades, Kauai has experienced significant development and population growth, driven largely by tourism and real estate. Efforts have been made to balance economic development with preserving the island's natural and cultural heritage.

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Throughout its history, Kauai has retained much of its unique character and traditional Hawaiian culture. Today, the island continues to attract visitors seeking to explore its rich history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant communities.

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