Kauai, the oldest landmass in the Hawaiian island chain, can be characterized by its geographically outward, dramatic yet mature, nature. With lush rainforests, rugged mountain peaks, misty waterfalls, plunging valleys, and serrated cliffs, Kauai’s rainy and difficult-to-reach topography deprive it of the massive crowds its adjacent islands receive. While other islands attract visitors with flashy resorts and easily-accessible tourist draws, Kauai, though not lacking its own resorts or tourists, is a natural beauty offering unparalleled views and experiences to those who make the effort to venture off the beaten path.
Na Pali coastline
Kauai and outdoor adventure go hand-in-hand. Visit Kauai if you want ample opportunities to enjoy zip lining, hiking, horseback riding, snorkeling, kayaking, golfing, and incredible views accessible by helicopter.
Helicopter ride over the Na Pali Coast
Once you’ve seen the famous Na Pali Coast and Waimea Canyon by air, discover some of the world’s best beaches.
Waimea Canyon State Park on a cloudy day with waterfall and river
In Hanalei Bay on the North Shore, choosing which direction to point your camera becomes your most difficult decision. On land, you can view waterfalls plunging from volcanic ridges. Toward the sea, surfers, swimmers, kayakers, canoers, and fishermen splash in the sparkling blue water.
Waioli Beach Park in Hanalei Bay
Besides providing picture-perfect palm trees, Poipu Beach on the South Shore offers a sandy-bottomed pool and a lava-rock jetty.
Coconut Palm trees on the sandy Poipu beach in Hawaii
Known as the Garden Isle, fragrant Kauai has several tropical gardens. Take as many deep breaths of the earthy floral perfume as you’d like in some of the famous gardens on the island: the Jurassic Kahili Ranch garden, the Limahuli Garden & Preserve, and/or the Allerton Garden near Poipu Beach to name a few.
Jurassic Kahili Ranch where several Jurassic Park movies were filmed
The island has been a backdrop for many well-known movies, including Jurassic World (2015) on Mount Waialeale, Olokele Valley; Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides (2011) at the Allerton Garden and caves at Waikapala’e; and Raiders of the Lost Ark (1981) on the Huleia River and Kipu Ranch.
Despite all the hustle and bustle brought by the Hollywood jet set, Kauai maintains a laid-back atmosphere where no town population is above 10,000 people and no building is taller than a palm tree.
If you’re craving a sleepy getaway, that offers breathtaking experiences at your choosing Kauai is your perfect paradise.
For more information, visit http://www.kauai.com/.