Things to do in Kauai
Kauai is a paradise for outdoor adventurists and draws hikers, surfers, scuba divers and kayakers. Despite being the longest-colonised of the Hawaiian Islands, Kauai's infrastructure isn't as developed as most of its neighbours; visitors to the island come for the natural beauty, rather than resorts and nightlife.
Hiking is one of the most popular activities on Kauai, and a great way to see the spectacular interior of the island. The 11-mile Kalalau Trail is one of the most famous routes, though Waimea Canyon and Koke'e State Park offer slightly easier trails that are suitable for the whole family. Other great outdoor places for families include Lydgate State Park and the Huleia National Wildlife Refuge.
The beaches on Kauai are ideal for watersports, and the south shore offers great opportunities for snorkelling and scuba diving. Dive boats leave daily from Po'ipu, and Ni'ihau is an unforgettable dive site, though more expensive. Many south shore beaches also offer kayak rentals, and visitors can explore the many miles of navigable rivers, either alone or with a guide.
Kalalau Trail
Since 90 per cent of Kauai is inaccessible by road, hiking is a great way to experience the island's celebrated natural bounty. There are a number of good hiking trails around the …
Kalalau Trail
Since 90 per cent of Kauai is inaccessible by road, hiking is a great way to experience the island's celebrated natural bounty. There are a number of good hiking trails around the island, but by far the most famous, and the most popular, is the strenuous 11 mile (about 18km) Kalalau Trail, which winds along the Na Pali Coast. This spectacular coastline is dotted with waterfalls and swift-flowing streams that, over centuries, have cut steep, narrow valleys that terminate in rugged cliffs overhanging the ocean. The trail begins at the end of the road at Kee Beach, and most hikers will opt to camp out for at least one night before returning. It's possible only to hike the first two miles (about 3km) of the trail, which will lead hikers to Hanakapiai Beach, where they'll be greeted by breathtaking views of Kauai's North Shore. Travellers should note that the Kalalau trail will take even well-conditioned hikers a full day to complete, and should not be undertaken lightly; however, those who are willing to put in the effort will be richly rewarded. Permits are required when continuing beyond Hanakapi'ai Valley (two miles into the trail), whether travellers are planning to camp overnight or not, and can be obtained from the State Parks office in Lihue during normal business hours.
Website www.kalalautrail.com
Napali Coast State Wilderness Park
A rugged coast of extreme beauty, the Na Pali Coastline stretches 15 miles (24km) from Ke'e Beach all the way to Polihale State Park on the island of Kauai. The rugged cliffs creat…
Napali Coast State Wilderness Park
A rugged coast of extreme beauty, the Na Pali Coastline stretches 15 miles (24km) from Ke'e Beach all the way to Polihale State Park on the island of Kauai. The rugged cliffs create a paradise of peaks and valleys, bubbling streams and dramatic waterfalls. The area is inaccessible by car; the Kalalau Trail from the end of Hawaii Route 56 (called the Kuhio Highway) provides the only land access for hikers, traversing 11 miles (18km) and crossing five major valleys before reaching Kalalau Beach at the base of Kalalau Valley. A popular way to explore the Na Pali Coast is by kayak as the original islanders did; this option is allowed by permit between May and September.
Website dlnr.hawaii.gov/dsp/parks/kauai/napali-coast-state-wilderness-park/park-info/