Kaua‘i
They call Kaua‘i the ‘Garden Isle’, but it’s
like no garden you’ve ever seen before. Its
mountaintops trap the rainclouds that roll
in off the Pacific, so its peaks and valleys are
draped with lush vegetation. Geologically it’s
the oldest of the four main islands of Hawai‘i,
so it’s had plenty of time to develop some
spectacular scenery. Mark Twain described
Waimea Canyon as the ‘Grand Canyon of the
Pacific’, while another highlight is the Napali
Coast, where sheer cliffs rise thousands of feet
straight out of the ocean. This coast is only
accessible by hiking, boat or helicopter, but
it’s well worth the effort. Of course, you don’t
have to travel so extravagantly to appreciate
Kaua‘i’s wonders – hire a bicycle from Kapa’a
and cruise the cycle path that follows the coast
for several kilometres. You’ll find your own
patch of paradise.
Our favourite things to see and do
Kilauea Lighthouse – Built in 1913 as a beacon for travelling ships, its
light was turned off in the 1970s. The view of the rugged northern coastline
and the deep-blue Pacific makes this the perfect spot for photos.
Spouting Horn Blowhole – Located on Kaua‘i’s South Shore, it is
quite spectacular and one of the most photographed spots. The Poipu surf
channels into a natural lava tube here and releases a huge spout of water
during large swells.
Waimea Canyon – Stretching 22 kilometres long, 1.6 kilometres wide
and more than 1100 metres deep, the Waimea Canyon Lookout provides
panoramic views. There are numerous trails to traverse for beginners and
seasoned hikers.
KAUA‘I
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Po’ipu Beach Park
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Napali Coast – The only land access to this enchanted area is via the
Kalalau Trail, an 18 kilometre trail that starts at Kee Beach, crosses five
different valleys and ends at secluded Kalalau Beach. If you don’t feel like
walking, take a cruise for some unforgettable scenery.
Fern Grotto – On Kaua‘i’s east side, accessible only by a short boat trip
up the Wailua River, the grotto is natural lava-rock, lush with hanging ferns
and tropical foliage, cooled by the mists of a waterfall. There was a time
when the grotto was off-limits to all but Hawaiian royalty, but for more
than 50 years, riverboats have provided tours of the site.
Dining – With everything from fine dining to food trucks, you’ll find
something on Kaua‘i to suit your palate. Tahiti Nui in Hanalei and Keoki’s
Paradise in Poipu are two not to be missed. Both offer fresh seafood and
live entertainment just about every night.