Unique and Fun Things to do in Kauai, HI
Kauai is the oldest of the original islands of Hawaii, and looking around; it is easy to see how well the island has aged. As beautiful as Kauai sounds on its own, the island is known as the garden isle. With beautiful greens and waves surrounding the island, it will make leaving one of the hardest things you will ever have to do!
Allerton Garden
Once the site of a private estate, Allerton Garden is now a member of the National Tropical Botanical Garden. Located on the South Shore of the island, the Gardens are made up of a series of unique outdoor venues that include fountains, statues, and exotic plantings of both rare and native plants. Be sure to call ahead though, as advance reservations are required for entrance.
Hanalei Bay
While you can’t go wrong when going to the beach on Kauai, we would like to mention Hanalei Bay as a place to check out. Located on the North Shore of the island, the large bay has a number of great beaches and is protected by coral reefs. Additionally, while conditions get a little rougher during the winter, they remain manageable, making this a great place to visit year-round.
Kilauea Lighthouse
Built in 1913, the Kilauea Lighthouse is located high above the ocean on the North Shore of Kauai. While the original light has been replaced, it remains an active lighthouse, assisting local sailors. However, you should head here for the amazing views this site offers, as well as the chance to see the native fauna from one of the nearby wildlife sanctuaries.
Na Pali Coast and State Park
As any local will tell you, one of the best parts of Hawaii is the hiking. With Kauai being one of the most naturally preserved islands in the state, there are some really great hikes to be found there. One of the greatest hikes I’ve ever seen can be found along the Na Pali Coast and State Park. Be warned, though: many people find the hikes here to be very difficult and there is some risk involved with cliffside trails and the danger of flash floods. However, if you are aware of these and prepare yourself adequately, the experience is well worth it.
Kuilau Ridge Trail
If you’re looking for something a little less strenuous than the Na Pali hikes, then the Kuilau Ridge Trail is right for you. A relatively easy hike, it starts out gentle and has a consistent incline, which can be tiring over time. Luckily, though, there is also a great picnic area about halfway up that will let you stop and get some rest if you need it. Overall, the hike should take about three hours, during which you’ll get to see amazing views of the coast, valleys, and mountains.
Waimea Canyon
When you go to Hawaii, you probably don’t expect to hear much about the Grand Canyon. However, Waimea Canyon might make you think of the giant Arizona gorge, given the nickname “Grand Canyon of the Pacific” by none other than Mark Twain. Even though the entire island is only 26 miles across, the canyon measures 10 miles long, a mile wide, and about 3600 feet deep. Unlike the dusty Canyon on the mainland, though, Waimea canyon is covered with lush vegetation coloring the canyon shades of red, green, blue, gray, and purple. This is truly a must-see attraction while you’re on Kauai.
Queen’s Bath
Located on the North Shore of Kauai, the Queen’s Bath is a relatively large tide pool housed right up against the ocean. The level of the pool depends on the level of the ocean and the time of year. During the summer months, this is a great place to visit, as you can see some amazing marine life right in the clear waters of the bath. However, it is extremely important to realize that it is very dangerous during the winter months, as the water is rougher and the waves reach higher on the rocks. This is a great place to visit from April to August, but we do not recommend going outside of those months.
Limahuli Garden and Preserve
Hidden away in the Limahuli Valley is the gem that is the Limahuli Garden and Preserve. With the stated mission of protecting Hawaii’s native species and conserving the tropical ecosystem, this is a spectacular sight to see. A member of the National Tropical Botanical Garden, the 17-acre site has labeled the plants for the education of visitors. You have the option of taking a guided tour or guiding yourself, but you will need to make a reservation to gain entry.
Kamokila Hawaiian Village
Erected on the site of an ancient Hawaiian village, this present-day compound features replica homes and community buildings that you would find in such a village. Located along the Wailua River, the Kamokila Hawaiian Village teaches visitors about the islands before they encountered Western Civilization. In addition to taking in numerous demonstrations ranging from cloth to poi-making, visitors should be sure to try some of the fruit that grows there.