Kauai
It is easy to get into the flow here, especially with a day trip down the Wailua River on Kauai's north shore. I booked a day trip with Kayak Kauai for a guided tour to the Secret Waterfall (known to locals as Uluwehi Falls). We launched in Kapa’a...
Lihue, HI 96766, USA
A lot of people throw around the word "authentic" and then book 15,000.00 trips to Tanzania. I can't imagine that is authentic, as people certainly don't bring that home in a year much less in 7 days. Kauai is a beautiful island with great...
Kilauea, HI 96754, USA
We found Anahata Sanctuary by chance while looking for an affordable bed on Kauai's North Shore. With its screened in accommodations surrounded by tropical flowers and fruit, it was perfect for my partner and I who were looking for something close...
Hanalei, HI 96714, USA
"Puff the Magic Dragon, lived by the sea, and frolicked in the autumn mist in a land called Honah Lee" our guide kept on singing this verse as he was pointing out the smokey dragon in front of us, as we visited this wonderful place (viewed from...
3-2600 Kaumualii Hwy #1005, Lihue, HI 96766, USA
There's nothing fancy about the Monday afternoon farmers market in Lihue. It's in the Kmart parking lot. But it's definitely local. Folks set up folding tables and sell their guavas, avocados, birds of paradise flowers, and yes, bananas. Kids buy...
4900 Kuawa Rd, Kilauea, HI 96754, USA
The hedge out front spells, "Aloha" and the open air cafe welcomes visitors to a very Kauai brunch. Gardens full of seasonal vegetables surround the cafe. Diners in shorts, flip-flops, and sundresses sip Akamai juices and dine on lamb burgers and...
Princeville, HI, USA
If there’s paradise on earth, it would be Kauai. It is without a doubt one of the most sublimely serene and beautiful place I’ve had the pleasure of traveling to. Kauai offers everything a traveler could want or need for an ultimate vacation...
Kapaa, HI, HI, USA
Waterfalls mesmerize me. Don't ask me why, they just do. So of course, while exploring as much as we possibly could while on Kauai, we trekked over to Wailea Falls, infamous for the opening scene in Fantasy Island. It was an easy "trek"...
3901 Mokulele Loop, Lihue, HI 96766, USA
Kauai is stunning on the ground, but in the air, it's spectacular. The island's small size becomes its strength as you're able to experience its beauty from afar (pun intended) and can soak up so much more than you could on foot. Head down to the...
Puhi, HI 96766, USA
We knew our 5-year-old would like the train. We didn't know he'd get to drive it. But he did. And we all got to feed the resident goats.
3474 Rice St, Lihue, HI 96766, USA
The beef is local and grass-fed, the french fries and french toast are good, the people are nice, and it's got views of a little bay. We ate one meal here, then another, and another. Sometimes when you find a good thing, you stick with it....
Kilauea Rd, Hawaii 96754, USA
On the north shore of Kauai sits the Kilauea Lighthouse which served as a navigation aide to ships on their way to and from the Orient. It's surrounded by the Kilauea Point National Wildlife Refuge where one can spot all sorts of nesting seabirds....
Waimea, HI, USA
I can't claim to be a Hawaiian shrimp expert, but I've now eaten at the shrimp trucks on Oahu's north shore and at this place in Waimea on Kauai. The sauce here was thicker and butterier, so I'd probably give the edge to Oahu, but this place hit...
Kapiolani Rd, Princeville, HI 96722, USA
For a tourist destination in the US, Queens Bath is pretty unique. And by unique I'm not referring to the cool rock formations, or the dramatic waves that come crashing in from all directions. No, I mean it's unique because it's kinda dangerous if...
Kapaa, HI, HI, USA
I knew Kauai was supposed to be spectacular, but nothing prepared me for the emotional response I would have when setting eyes upon it for the first time. Unless you've been there, it's difficult to describe the sentiments that flood through you...
Kapaa, HI, HI, USA
Lydgate Beach Park has not one but two great playgrounds. If you go to the main beach entrance, you'll find a huge play structure with lots of nooks and crannies and things to climb. But if you miss the turn like we did, you'll get to the Play...
Kilauea, HI 96754, USA
The Kilauea Point National Wildlife Refuge is a federally protected peninsula on the north shore of Kauai. It protects a variety of seabirds, some of which nest on the cliffs surrounding the peninsula. The Kilauea wildlife refuge is one of the...
Kauai Beach Rd, Lihue, HI 96766, USA
Can an event in a ballroom at a huge resort be "authentically" Hawaiian? Surprisingly, I have to say yes. The E Kanikapila Kakou program has been keeping Hawaiian culture alive on Kauai for 29 years. We saw the 4 incredible musicians of the group...
For an early breakfast treat, get some malasadas at the Village Snack and Bakery Shop (a hole-in-the-wall eatery) located in the Ching Young Village Shopping Center. They sell out of them fast every morning, so you need to roll out of bed early....
Hanapepe, HI 96716, USA
While making your way through Kokee State Park on a Harley, there are about a dozen places for that perfect vacation photo. But this particular lookout, with the dramatic lighting and the epic view down toward the Na'Pali Coast, overshadows the...
Hanapepe, HI 96716, USA
Koke'e State Park is home to Kauai's Waimea Canyon, the Grand Canyon of the Pacific. It's easy access by road makes it a popular tourist spot. There is a network of roads and trails with otherworldly vistas that dazzle. If you're looking for a...
Kauai Multiuse Path(Ke Ala Hele Makalae), Hawaii, USA
Ke Ala Hele Makalae, “the path that goes by the coast,” may be one of the most beautiful and expensive bike paths on the planet. At about $5M a mile, it is worth every bit of effort to explore the entire seven miles. When complete, the trail will...
Kilauea, HI 96754, USA
At Banana Joe's, they make their Frosties by putting frozen bananas and pineapple through a juicer. This is what comes out. It's like ice cream. Yum. This is also a good place to get local produce and honey. Essential pit stop on the drive up to...
1610 Haleukana St, Lihue, HI 96766, USA
This takeout place was full of local people during lunch. Off of Highway 50, go west of the Kukui Grove Shopping Center, and south on Puhi Road. It's in a weird industrial area surrounded by cargo trucks, but a great place to stop by for chicken...
5-5468 Kuhio Hwy, Hanalei, HI 96714, USA
I was headed to the pier to photograph my kids jumping off. I was only in ankle deep water and ducked under the pier. This was the view looking out towards the bay. Awesome water colors!
Shipwreck Beach, Hawaii 96756, USA
A short stroll up from the beach near the Hyatt in Poipu brings you to the top of sandstone cliffs the ocean is busy carving. Sit here and ponder your insignificance. Then go back to the beach and build a sandcastle. Bird watchers, I spotted a...
There are some things no matter how touristy one must do. After all, these things became "touristy" for a reason, usually because they're good. Eating shave ice in Hawaii is one of those things. It's not your typical snow cone, the array of...
Lawai Rd, Koloa, HI 96756, USA
You can get close, but it's probably not a good idea to tempt the Spouting Horn along the Poipu coast of Kauai. The blow hole spouts water up to 50 feet when the surf allows, stunning daring viewers who are too close and amusing those far away.
5482 Koloa Rd, Koloa, HI 96756, USA
I rarely get fooled when I follow the local lead and the Koloa Fish Market has my attention. It's easy to start talking about this little fish palace across the street from the post office. Nondescript is telling it like it is. Observing the...
Often described as the Grand Canyon of the Pacific, this 10-mile-long Kauai valley is a kaleidoscopic array of scarlet earth, verdant valleys, and raw volcanic crags. Bands of color streak the corrugated landscape, each representing a different...
Hanalei, HI, USA
Perhaps the most relaxing concert you'll ever attend. Walk into the Hanalei Community Center, take off your shoes, and listen as Doug McMaster gives you some brilliant slack-key guitar, and his wife, Sandy, talks story. Don't mind the roosters...
Kilauea, HI 96754, USA
On a great, sunny day in February, we stopped along the road as we were driving to Hanalei. The waves were calm, the whales plentiful off the coast and the seabirds were in fine form!
After passing Anahola on the Kealia Road on the way to the North Shore of Kauai, be sure to pull over a the Moloa'a juice bar for a smoothie, juice, or other fresh snack made from local tropical deliciousness. Whether starting your day with a...
3838 Wyllie Rd, Princeville, HI 96722, USA
If you want big waves or big cliffs, head to the Napali Coast. If you want white sand and gentle ripples, a more relaxed beach, lay your towel down at Anini Beach on the North Shore. Sometimes the wind picks up a bit, but put on a mask and snorkel...
End of Rte. 560, Hanalei, HI 96714, USA
Flying over the Hawaiian Islands in a helicopter is one of the most thrilling experiences one can enjoy during a trip to Hawaii, providing views of places inaccessible to most travelers. The island of Kauai is especially spectacular. Gliding along...
5-8291 Kuhio Hwy, Hanalei, HI 96714, USA
A good way to explore Hawaii for the first time is by cruise. Try the one week cruise and then stay for another week in your favorite spot. Enjoy the Na Pali Coast State Park. Keep exploring...
2215 Kuai Rd, Koloa, HI 96756, USA
This honu (sea turtle) was playing in the waves in the shallow water. Lots of honu to see here at Brenneke's Beach in Poipu on Kauai
Breathtaking views of the rugged Na Pali Coast from our "doors off" helicopter tour
Hanalei, HI 96714, USA
On weekends locals and tourists alike enjoy the sunset here. Many BBQ at the beach, while others bring their ukulele to play songs. Catch some divers launch themselves off this pier as additional photo opportunity
In the heart of old town Kapaa, the Olympic overlooks Main Street with laid-back Hawaiian style. Upstairs in an old building that's been converted into a collection of ragtag shops, the cafe has a commanding presence. Park and wander along the...
3-5971 Kuhio Hwy, Kapaa, HI 96746, USA
This is where the pig was roasted for our luau, although we never saw him. The luau at Smith's Tropical Garden is much bigger and touristy than I thought, but it's still a family run business, and you can see the care they've taken in perfecting...
5-5070 Kuhio Hwy # B, Hanalei, HI 96714, USA
This little stand is off of the highway, going into Hanalei from Kapaa, close to the Hanalei Bay beach. I had their taro acai bowl, which is like a berry flavored soft serve, and also a lunch of pork wrapped in steamed taro leaf, with a side of...
5190 Kuhio Hwy, Hanalei, HI 96714, USA
The sign above the counter reads, "We are not known for our speed." The same could be said for the entire island, but here the wait is rewarded with island-inspired pizza flavors. The Wild Pig (made with roasted pork) and the Veg-Head (accented...
5-5156 Kuhio Hwy, Hanalei, HI 96714, USA
Custard stuffed French toast in macadamia crust with lilikoi-strawberry syrup. To die for.
Malolo Rd, Hanalei, HI 96714, USA
Rambutan and other exotic fruits and vegetables can all be found at the many farmers' markets on Kauai.
5-5190 Kuhio Hwy, Hanalei, HI 96714, USA
The quintessential "Old Hawaii" Juice Bar in downtown Hanalei between the Post Office and Big Save Market.
3730 Ahukini Rd, Lihue, HI 96766, USA
Take your Kauai exploring to exceptionally new and breathtaking heights. With Blue Hawaiian Helicopter tours, you will climb the highest peaks and drop into uncharted valleys to gaze in amazement at the tropical landscapes and naturally flowing...
Kapaa, HI 96746, USA
Kauai is all about adventure activities, and after awhile the kayaking and ziplining can take a toll on the wallet. Luckily, my favorite experiences there involved little but my own two feet and the setting sun. The rugged, inaccessible Na'Pali...
5-5016 Kuhio Hwy, Hanalei, HI 96714, USA
Opened for just a few hours on Saturday morning, this farmer's market gives you everything you need to start your Kauai day: shell jewelry souvenirs, coconuts juice from actual coconuts, and Hawaiian print shirts.
2827A Poipu Rd, Koloa, HI 96756, USA
A splendid way to idle away the hours in Kauai. Outfitters Kauai, based on the south side of the island, provided an excellent outing starting with bobbing kayaks in a bay of the Pacific ocean, then winding into the Haul'ia River where the ocean...
3580 Kilauea Rd, Kilauea, HI 96754, USA
Park and look at a large rookery for sea birds, continue into the wildlife sanctuary and watch for whales from shore on the lighthouse promontory.
Koloa, HI 96756, USA
Asking your kids to hike is like asking them if they want to get their teeth cleaned. "Nooooooo!" is usually the resounding answer. But in Kauai, I insisted my daughter join me on this easy jaunt along the stunning coastline of the Garden Isle,...
5363A, 5 Kuhio Hwy, Hanalei, HI 96714, USA
We were driving south after a day at Waikoko and Hanalei beaches. It started to rain and the double rainbow and light on my favorite church was perfect and I had to capture it. This church is much photographed and the subject of many paintings.
Hwy 50, Waimea, HI 96796, USA
Spectacular sands—making up the longest stretch of beach in Hawaii—sweep for 15 miles starting here, fringed by postcard-perfect turquoise water. This patch of ocean is rough, rowdy, and perilous: Watch for sneaker waves as you stroll...
Kapaa, HI 96746, USA
A rugged, difficult trail with views that make every step worth it. Surprised to find a bench at the top of the mountain, but a welcoming sight nonetheless. Beautiful views, beautiful weather - Kauai is absolutely amazing.
HI-560, Kapaa, HI 96746, USA
With sand between your toes and frothy waves running over your tired feet, enjoying a long walk on the beach with your beau is about as romantic as life can get. Many hotels make it easy on couples, thanks to their convenient waterfront location,...
5-5070 Kuhio Hwy # B, Hanalei, HI 96714, USA
Ever wonder what Poi tastes like? I did, so I found this food truck and discovered that it's a side dish made with taro root. Just along highway 56, right next to the Hanalei River, the Hanalei Taro & Juice company serves up hot plates of Hawaiian...
3901 Mokulele Loop, Lihue, HI 96766, USA
Hawaii's Garden Island of Kauai is known as the least touristy island in the chain, partially because it's still just so undeveloped. The center of the island, where the wettest spot on the planet resides, is impassable by vehicles and there are...
5520 Ka Haku Rd, Princeville, HI 96722, USA
Tucked among the pristine rain forests of Kauai’s remote North Shore, St. Regis Princeville’s lush 9,000 acres feel like they’re straight out of South Pacific. In fact, the classic musical used neighboring Mount Makana as a...
Koloa, HI 96756, USA
Kukuiula shopping village has a culinary farmers market every Wednesday evening in Poipu, Kauai. Live music, cooking demonstrations and tons of local tropical produce.
3-2087 Kaumualii Hwy, Lihue, HI 96766, USA
I went to a luau in Kauaii and my favorite performers were the fire dancers. So cool!
3-1901 Kaumualii Hwy, Lihue, HI 96766, USA
Celebration of Okinawan culture, Lihue, Hawaii ... with the mountain in the backdrop, the small festival felt enormous yet so zenlike.
Barking Sands Beach, Hawaii 96752, USA
Pacific Missile Range Facility, Barking Sands, Kauai, Hawaii
5-5161 Kuhio Hwy e104, Hanalei, HI 96714, USA
The vintage hula girls were a little hard to find. They were hidden in a glass case behind stores Tiki tableware, vintage Hawaiian shirts, surfer postcards, and flour sack towels. Nevertheless, the ladies hula-ed at delicate touch amidst...
Kapaa, HI 96746, USA
Swift streams and waterfalls continue to carve these vertiginous and rugged valleys as they pour down into the sea. One of the most stunning wilderness areas on earth, it also contains ancient Hawaiian ruins of graves, temples, house platforms,...
Kalapaki Beach, Lihue, HI 96766, USA
I happened to meet some great friends on the bus who invited me to their timeshare at the Marriott Resort on Kalapaki Beach. We had a great day surfing, drinking beer, sitting in hot tubs and eating pomelos.
Wailua Homesteads, HI 96746, USA
On my visit in 2012 to Kauai with my daughter, I drove her up Kuamo'o Road, Hwy 580 to the Keahua Arboretum area to see where her father and I were married in 1984. On my wedding day, my hubby-to-be and I drove my rusted 1957 VW bug across a river...
Hanalei Bay, Hawaii, USA
Kauai's Hanalei Bay may be one of the most magical places on the planet. I swear some of the locals start paddleboarding at sunrise and don't come back in until sundown. I've paddleboarded in calm waters, but this was my first time trying to...
2-3675 Kaumualii Hwy, Lawai, HI 96765, USA
Sans GPS - it's just amazing when you adventure out without a clue or map. Discovering 88 Buddhist shrines perched on a hilltop with a footpath no wider than 10 inches, started in 1904 by Japanese immigrants - replicating the 88 temples in...
Waimea, HI 96796, USA
It's difficult and a little scary, but definitely worth the trek and ability to stare down from 3,000 feet above the sea.
Eleele, HI 96705, USA
With over thirty beaches ringing Kauai, it's hard to have a favorite. Salt Pond is right up there for me. Named for its traditional Hawaiian salt collecting ponds, this beach is protected by an outside reef which makes it great for kids and...
Maalo Rd, Kapaa, HI 96746, USA
Although on the Garden Isle of Kauai there are countless waterfalls, my personal favorite is Wailua Falls near Lihue. I've viewed the falls from helicopter as well as driven to the overlook; however, this image, what I would consider the perfect...
Hanalei, HI 96714, USA
There's a hike for everyone along the spiny Na Pali Coast. Burly backpackers can take on the entire 11-mile Kalalau Trail (which, at certain points, is only about a foot wide—yeesh!). But day-trippers have their pick. For all, start at Ke'e beach,...
Kilauea, HI 96754, USA
Go to Kilauea Point National Wildlife Refuge and the Kilauea Lighthouse before catching this sunset view. The refuge closes at 4 PM daily. Explore Kilauea for a few hours until sundown. For the sunset, find a pullout on Kilauea Road where you can...
4353 Waialo Rd, Eleele, HI 96705, USA
We were on a small zodiac and got real close to the migrating whales, it was a wonderful experience
Kapaa Beach, Hawaii 96746, USA
We chose Kauai for our first visit to the Hawaiian islands for two reasons: first, because my wife's mother had spent time there in the 70's, and second, the island has a reputation (and nickname) for being a "green island" with lush vegetation...
Hoolako St, Lihue, HI 96766, USA
No lions, no tigers, nor bears, but on Kauai, there are lychees, taro, and bananas galore. Come and enjoy the fruits (and vegetables) of the farmers' labor at one of the many Sunshine Markets on Kauai! With the nickname of the Garden Isle, it's no...
3-4131 Kuhio Hwy, Lihue, HI 96766, USA
After a guided drive through Kauai's backcountry, including a stop to view Mount Waiʻaleʻale - its summit is one of the world's rainiest spots, we put on headlamps and water shoes and tubed down the irrigation canals and darkened tunnels of what...
Hanapepe, HI 96716, USA
At the end of the 11-mile Kalalau Trail lies the most perfectest beach. Gorgeous 360 degree views of cliffs and ocean, fine white sand, natural waterfall for your bathing and hydration needs, tropical fruit ripe for the picking, sea caves, and...
