Kauai, HI

What to do in Kauai, HI

Mokihana Helicopter Tour

See amazing sights that even the most intrepid hiking trails can't reach. Fly from the Manawaipana Falls and the velvety folds of the Waimea Canyon to the wind-sculpted face of the Na Pali Coast and on to the "wettest spot on earth." Mount Waialeale, including many other highlights along the way.

Na Pali Expedition

Cruise along the Na Pali coast for the best view of the island's marine wildlife including dolphins, schools of flying fish, whales, and razorback turtles. You'll also visit sea caves and snorkel offshore, picnic in a rain-forest, and venture into the ethereally beautiful Fern Grotto. Guides recount fascinating stories about the local legends behind the various sights.

Waimea Canyon

Take a guided drive through the island to Waimea Canyon, Hanalei Bay, Wailua, and the Fern Grotto. Four-wheel drive vehicles take you off the beaten path into Kauai's magnificent wilderness. Have a waterside picnic lunch and enjoy your guide's tales of the Polynesian past and present-day Hawaii.

Plantation Backroads

Take an air-conditioned ride in a 4X4 to an area of incredible beauty along cane roads that have been off limits to all but the cane workers for years. Learn about the local history as you meander along scenic back roads all the way to Kilohana Crater. At the top, you get a 360°F view that is unbeatable. Head on through old Koloa Town -Hawaii's first plantation settlement, past the old mill, and on to the rugged coastline of Maha'ulepu.

Hiking

This is the ultimate way to see the island's hidden beauty, since only about 10% of Kauai is accessible by paved roads. The 5-mile Kukui Trail, which drops 2,000 feet into the Waimea Canyon, is the shortest route to the canyon floor - where hikers are rewarded with a large swimming hole. The 4.2-mile Kuilau Ridge Trail offers romantic views of waterfalls and vibrant flowers. The Kalalau Trail offers spectacular views of Na Pali Coast and Kee Beach.

Scuba Diving

There are several excellent dive sites along the shore, and many scuba centers will take you out to dive in offshore waters. The warm, tropical waters are filled with lava ridges, pinnacles, archways, caves, and caverns formed by molten lava. There are also coral reefs, cowry shells, and some 680 species of tropical fish!.

Golf

Courses are plentiful, both public and resort-owned, 9- and 18-hole. Inspiring views of seascapes and mountain ranges are a bonus to almost every hole.

Horseback Riding

Saddle up for a horseback ride and have one of the fantasy experiences of a lifetime. Few things are more exhilarating than riding a horse through rain forests and across a shore being pounded by the surf. The entire time, you'll be surrounded by stupendous scenery and lots of wildlife.

Shopping

When it comes to shopping, what Kauai lacks in alternatives it makes up for in character. There are a few major malls, but don't overlook the delightful mom-and-pop shops and family-run boutiques. The famous shell jewelry from nearby Niihau is often sold at the outdoor market, along with rare Hawaiian prints, patchwork quilts, cotton kimonos, and hand-etched scrimshaw.