"The
Garden Isle"
Kauai is the smallest,
northernmost and the
oldest of the four major Hawaiian Islands, and it is easily the
most pristine. When you think of a classic tropical Paradise,
the lush landscapes of Kauai are what come to mind. In fact,
Kauai’s natural beauty has earned it the nickname "The Garden
Isle", and it is with good reason.
Of its 533 square miles, only 3% of it
is used for commercial and residents, the rest is divided
between agriculture and conservation.
If your idea of a great vacation locale includes breathtaking
mountains and valleys; deep, fertile forests littered with
winding trails; cascading waterfalls; dozens of miles of the
best beaches in the world; and picture-perfect tropical waters
for perfect snorkeling and scuba, then Kauai is for you.
World Famous Beauty
Kauai is home of two of Hawaii's (and the world’s) most
spectacular natural landscapes: Waimea Canyon and Fern Grotto.
Described by Mark Twain as "the Grand Canyon of the Pacific,"
Waimea Canyon will astound you with its rugged, colorful beauty.
Fern Grotto, which you might recognize from Elvis' movie Blue
Hawaii, remains one of the most romantic, tranquil, and exotic
places in the entire world. And you can take a tour of either
one (or both, if you prefer.)
Pure Waters and Forbidden Islands
The warm tropical waters of Kauai offer you several great
locations for snorkeling. Submerge yourself in the crystal clear
waters of the Na Pali coast, the "jewel of Kauai" on the
island's north coast; or venture out to neighboring Ni'ihau, the
privately-owned "Forbidden Island”, for some of the best
snorkeling on earth.
Both locations are home to some incredible sea-life: pods of
wild spinner dolphins, bottlenose dolphins, spotted dolphins and
even resident pilot whales. Na Pali is also noted for its
incredible whale watching tours, which might bring you into
contact with the migrating Pacific humpback whales.
Plenty for You to do
Besides snorkeling (and other water sports), whale
watching, and touring the fabulous landscapes, Kauai offers you
an abundance of other activities as well. From miles of pristine
beaches to a romantic dinner cruise along the beautiful Na Pali
coast to a lazy jaunt up the Wailua River exploring the
rainforest’s waterfalls, you’ll never run out of things to do.
And if you really want to be overwhelmed by nature, take a
helicopter or airplane tour of the island. A treat for
your tastebuds also awaits you, as the fresh island fare served
at Kauai’s festive luaus and resorts will make your mouth
water.
Kauai is also a favorite destination for adventure seekers, with
such “extreme” activities like Ziplining, ATV riding, and
exploring the hidden treasures and secret freshwater pools of
the dense jungles. If you want a real challenge, come take a
Kayak Hike. Kauai's grandeur has also been noticed by Hollywood,
with such films as South Pacific, Jurassic Park, Fantasy
Island and Windtalkers being filmed
here.
If you want to take a drive here it is very interesting.
Although they don't believe in signs, you don't get lost
because all the side roads lead back to the two main roads.
The 53 miles of pristine white beaches is incredible. While
strolling along the beach you may encounter a Hawaiian Monk
Seal basking in the sun. Hawaiian Monk Seals often haul up
on beaches to sleep, sun, or give birth. These critically
endangered marine mammals are protected under federal laws.
You must stay at least 100 feet from them, and remember an
agitated 400- to 600-pound wild animal could be dangerous.
Although so much of this island is under conservation, you
can enjoy horseback riding, biking, fishing, camping, golf,
windsurfing, scuba diving, and much, much more.
