Kauai Travelers Recommend

Kauai is an island for the senses – velvet-green mountains roll down to meet the ocean, fringed by swaying palm trees; it’s like something out of the movies, and it is: South Pacific, Jurassic Park – you wouldn’t be surprised to meet Elvis strumming a guitar or one of those dinosaurs. To get a feel for the incredible landscape of The Garden Isle, take a sightseeing flight over Kauai. You’ll see Waimea Canyon, dubbed the Grand Canyon of the Pacific; Waialeale Crater, the wettest place on Earth and waterfalls and coastline to fill any digital camera’s memory. If planes are too tame for you, make like a bird yourself on the ziplines, harnessing up and riding high above rivers, canyons and waterfalls of Kalihiwai Valley. Or if you just prefer to be amongst the peace and wonder of nature, bike or hike through Waimea Canyon or to Kalihiwai Falls. If you fancy a bit of kayaking, head for the Hule’la River and paddle deep into the heart of the jungle.

Kauai has no shortage of sun and sand, but it also has the third highest level of rainfall of anyplace on the planet -- and that means waterfalls. Made iconic by its appearance in the opening credits of Fantasy Island, Wailua is what comes to mind when you think of picturesque Hawaiian waterfalls. The falls are 80 feet of rushing water descending from a sheer cliff, flowing into the Wailua River. The backdrop to Elvis Presley in Blue Hawaii, Opaeka’a Falls is located on the south end of Kapaa Town, Opaeka’a can be seen from the highway as well as from a little known trail. The trail is a bit treacherous, so be cautious if you choose to venture forth. If you’re up for a little more adventure, Hanakapi’ai Falls is well worth the trek. The trail to the falls is not for beginners and the final leg of the hike is a strenuous multi-hour trek, but the view will reward the effort.