Kauai Island – also known as the “Garden Isle,” geologically the oldest among the Hawaiian Islands and one of the most captivating places in the Pacific. A vacation in Kauai can be described in one word – unbelievable.
Blessed with majestic landscapes, breathtaking coastlines, sea cliffs, grand canyons, beaches, waterfalls, and parks, it is the perfect place for your Hawaii vacation.
Geography of Kauai Island
At approximately 6 million years old, Kauai is the oldest island in the Hawaiian archipelago. It was formed as a result of the interaction of the Pacific Plate with the Hawaii hotspot. The island has an area of 562.3 square miles (1,456.4 square km.)
Some of the most popular tourist spots in Kauai are the Waimea Canyon and the Na Pali Coast. Tagged as the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific,” Waimea Canyon is 16 kilometers long and 3,000 feet deep. Right off the bat, one of the first things that you will notice is the stunning red color of its landscape.
The Na Pali Coast is a popular destination for visitors who want to see its awesome sea cliffs, beautiful clear water beaches, and scenic hiking trails. It is also the perfect spot for kayak tours and snorkeling.
History of Kauai
The island of Kauai was among the last islands to join the Kingdom of Hawaii during the reign of King Kamehameha. For years the island’s ruler, Kaumuali’i resisted the influence of the king. Kamehameha tried to take the island by force with his huge armada of ships and canoes.
The first attempt did not succeed due to a storm, while the second one failed due to an epidemic. But with the threat of further invasion, Kaumuali’i eventually ceded the island upon his death in 1824.
Fun Things to Do On Kauai
HELICOPTER TOURS
Nothing is more spectacular than a bird’s eye view of Kauai Island. See from up above the majestic Waimea Canyon, also known as the Grand Canyon of the Pacific, with its impressive landscapes and vibrant red color.
From your helicopter seat, view the grandiose Na Pali Coast and its towering sea cliffs and emerald green valleys. To the north is the Hanalei Valley, where you can find large fields of the delicious taro vegetable (one of Hawaii’s favorite foods).
If you want a more thrilling adventure, you can opt for a doors-off helicopter tour. Feel the cool breeze and get the best panoramic views as you fly above scenic spots in Kauai. You can choose between the A-Star and the Hughes 500 helicopters.
SNORKELING/SCUBA DIVING
You will go onboard a catamaran and set sail towards the Na Pali Coast. The crew will give information about the place and the sights that you will see. Before you embark on your underwater adventure, you will be provided breakfast with coffee, tea, or juice.
When you reach the spot, it’s time to have some underwater fun! See dolphins, tropical species of fish, and coral reefs. If you don’t have the necessary equipment, don’t worry. Underwater camera, wetsuit, snorkeling and scuba equipment rentals are available.
LUAU PARTY
Experience a Hawaiian luau – a party/feast which features both food and entertainment. Enjoy a night of good food, fun, and the best performances by the people of Hawaii. All these with the beautiful sunset, the palm trees, and the beach as background. Nice!
Have some appetizers – potato macaroni salad, Kauai fresh green salad, papaya seed dressing, and vegetarian tofu salad. The main course includes Lomi Lomi Salmon, Teriyaki chicken, Kalua pork, taro rolls, steamed jasmine rice, vegetable chow mein, and yellow curry ratatouille.
The delicious desserts are the following: chocolate fudge brownies, banana cream pie, haupia, coconut cake, rice pudding, and pineapple upside down cake. Choose among the refreshing beverages: Blue Hawaii, Mai Tai, wine, beer, soft drinks, fruit punch, coffee, or tea.
Watch graceful hula dancers as they perform to the Hawaiian beat. Marvel at the skills of the fire dancers and poi ball twirlers. Experience first-hand the rich culture and history of Hawaii.
SUNSET CRUISE
What better way to spend your Hawaii vacation than to have a romantic sunset cruise. Have a breathtaking view of the sunset in Kauai as you sail the waters of the Pacific Ocean. Tour the beautiful Na Pali Coast, with its clear waters and awesome rock formations.
Sit back and relax as you and your loved one enjoy the relaxing cruise. To complement the romantic atmosphere, wine, appetizers, and champagne will be served. And, if you visit Kauai from December to April, there is a good chance you will see the gentle giants of the Pacific – the 40-ton Humpback whales as they migrate from their feeding grounds in Alaska.
KAUAI MOVIE TOUR ADVENTURE
The picturesque sceneries of Kauai Island make it a perfect location for Hollywood blockbuster movies. Some of these films are Jurassic Park, Indiana Jones: Raiders of the Lost Ark, King Kong, Six Days Seven Nights, Lilo & Stitch, The Descendants, just to name a few.
An air-conditioned minibus will take you to Kauai’ famous movie locations. Tour guides will give information and trivia about the place, while video clips of the movies will be shown. Some of these sites are the Wailua Falls, Hanamaulu Bay, Kapaa Town, Tahiti Nui, Hanalei Pier, Hanalei Valley, and Moloaa Bay.
KAYAK
This activity is ideal for families or large groups. Explore the scenic Hanalei River and Bay Reef Lagoon. See amazing wildlife in their natural habitat such as turtles, different species of fish, and birds.
You will be accompanied by a tour guide who will give information about the area. Equipment such as flotation devices and snorkeling gear will be provided. Do not forget to bring a camera so you can take photos of your memorable adventure in Hawaii.
HORSEBACK RIDE
Imagine yourself on a horseback ride while enjoying the sights of Kauai. You will be accompanied by an experienced guide as you tour the mountains, valleys, and the ocean. Orientation and safety briefing will be provided on site. Just a reminder, it is advised that you wear comfortable shoes (sneakers) during the tour.
Explore the beautiful north shore of Kauai Island. See the waterfalls, rainforests, and lush foliage. Enjoy a picnic with family and friends as you savor the beautiful sceneries of Hawaii. Feel the Aloha spirit as you marvel at the beauty of Mother Nature.
ZIP LINE
Traverse along bridge walks and zip-line over a canopy of tree tops. Glide 80 feet above the ground and have a bird’s eye view of the surrounding flora and fauna. To make it more exciting, you can go side by side with your loved one while holding hands.
Conclusion
Kauai is one of the most picturesque islands in the Hawaiian archipelago. Grand canyons, awesome sea cliffs, majestic landscapes, beautiful beaches, and scenic hiking trails – you will see all these if you choose Kauai for your Hawaii vacation.
There are a lot of fun things to do in Kauai: helicopter tours, sunset cruise, snorkeling/scuba diving, luau party, movie tour adventure, kayak, horseback ride, and zip line. Have a great time with family and friends. So don’t miss out on this adventure of a lifetime. Have a vacation in Kauai now.
