Slip Away to Kaua'i, Hawaii's "Garden Isle"

Situated on the north west portion of the Hawaiian Islands sits one of the most beautiful places you will ever find, the island of Kaua'i. The oldest of the Hawaiian islands is known for its breathtaking mix of mountain, white sand beaches, and lush tropics that combine to give you a feel on untouched beauty and wonder. With so many amazing experiences to unlock it is the perfect destination for your next vacation. And here are just a few of the highlights!

Napali Coast

This part of the island is one you have probably seen many times in your life already, but not in the fully range of beauty you will experience in-person. Jenny did a great job telling us about Napali is a previous post:

​Perhaps one of the most iconic images of Hawaii is Kaua’i’s Napali Coast. Movies like Jurassic Park, South Pacific, and Raiders of the Lost Ark have all been filmed in Kaua’i and feature some of the dramatic scenery you’ll find. While you can access part of the rugged coast by hiking the Kalalau Trail, the easiest ways to see the coastline is by air or by sea.

​Taking a catamaran tour and snorkeling trip allows you to not only see these beautiful cliffs and valleys, but to get up close to them and experience it all first hand. Many of these trips will take you alongside many of the sea cliffs, isolated beaches, valleys and waterfalls, and rugged inlets along the coast where you can see how the ocean and volcanic activity formed this one of a kind landform.

Waiema Canyon

Often described at the "Grand Canyon of the Pacific", Waiema Canyon offers an opportunity to take a peak into the natural wonder that is Hawaii. The name "Waiema" means "reddish water" and refers to the erosion that helped create the canyon.

Stretching 14 miles long, one mile wide and more than 3,600 feet deep, the Waimea Canyon Lookout provides panoramic views of crested buttes, rugged crags and deep valley gorges. The grand inland vistas go on for miles. 

North Shore

It seems like every island in Hawaii has a beautiful area known as "North Shore" an Kuau'i is no different. Kauai's dramatic North Shore is an enchanting setting full of rugged mountains, lush taro fields, heavenly beaches and spectacular sea cliffs. 

The North Shore area offers many great activities and sights to see. From Kilauea Point Lighthouse you can take in the beauty of the surround wildlife preserve and perhaps catch a glimpse of a few whale in the distance. Lumahai Beach offers some of the most beautiful beach options you will find anywhere on the Hawaiian Islands. And Hanalei offers you an amazing little Hawaiian town full of colorful shops and amazing food.

South Shore

The sunny South Shore of Kauai is home to historic Old Koloa Town and the resort area of Poipu. Here you can start off a truly Hawaiian experience by visiting the Koloa Heritage Trail. The trail is a 14-stop, self-guided 10-mile tour of the Koloa and Poipu area’s most important cultural, historical and geological sites, with descriptive plaques that explain each spot’s significance.

Along the trail you can make stops at well-known destinations like Spouting Horn, a natural lava tube that has become a blowhole for water during tides and swells. Nearby is Poipu Beach, home to endangered monk seals and right next to some amazing shopping, dining, and golf options. You can also visit Kihahouna Heiau, an ancient Hawaiian temple.

---

Coconut Coast

Known for the large number of coconut trees the grow amongst the beautiful resorts, the east side of the island is actually the most populated portion. Here you will find some of the beat beaches on the island and during the right time of the year you will be able to spot some whales on the horizon.

The Coconut Coast is also home to many activities and attractions. You can take a kayaking adventure down the Wailua River, Hawaii's only navigable river. You can also take a hike up Nounou Mountain, or the "Sleeping Giant" as the locals call it. Want a unique wedding experience? Why not get married at the Fern Grotto-- an amazing lava grotto covered in hanginf ferns.

Kaua'i offers many amazing experiences for a Hawaiian vacation. What I love most of all is its untouched beauty and seemingly endless connection with nature. To me the spirit of Hawaii is alive and well on the island of Kaua'i.

---

About the Author

Jennifer Whitney, Owner and Travel Advisor
Jenn has a passion for travel. She loves helping families create amazing memories while exploring the world.  From fun family road trips through the mountains of California, to climbing Machu Pichu, conquering Disney Parks, and even sailing the seas, she has either been there or helped a family get there! Jenn is an Accredited Cruise Counselor, Hawaii Destination Specialist, Certified Sandals Specialist and graduate of the Disney College of Knowledge. She also holds a Bachelors Degree in Business Administration from the University of North Texas and lives in The Woodlands, Texas.