Tropical Nature as It Was Intended: The Beautiful Island of Kauai

By Shannon Willoby

Photography of Kauai courtesy of Kauai Visitors Bureau
Photography courtesy of Kauai Marriott Resort & Beach Club
Photography courtesy of the National Tropical Botanical Garden
Photography of the Sheraton courtesy of Starwood Hotels & Resorts Hawaii
Photography courtesy of Ho’opulapula Haraguchi Rice Mill
Photography courtesy of Hanalei Colony Resort
Photo by Shannon Willoby
As the setting for over sixty movies, from Elvis Presley’s Blue Hawaii to the more recent Tropic Thunder , first-time visitors to Kauai might be surprised to discover that they’ve already seen some of its beauty through the magic of film. And because Kauai is filled with ecological delights that make for stunning big-screen backdrops, it’s an ideal vacation destination.

Kauai, often called the Garden Island, is a popular tourist spot thanks to its perfect year-round weather of 70–80 degrees, 50 miles of white sandy beaches, the majestic Na Pali coast, Waimea Canyon (nicknamed the Grand Canyon of the Pacific), laid-back atmosphere, and endless outdoor activities, but the island’s ancient myths and culture are also fascinating draws. And with only 3 percent of Kauai developed for commercial and agricultural use, plenty of the island’s natural state is there to see and discover in many ways—hiking, kayaking, snorkeling, sailing, zip-lining, surfing, all-terrain vehicle adventures, horseback riding, nature walks, world-class golf, helicopter tours, and more.

Whether you’re looking for a little family fun or a romantic getaway, read on for tips on where to stay and what to do while you enjoy Hawaii’s oldest and most unspoiled island, Kauai.

Sheraton Kauai Resort
(866) 716-8109
sheraton-kauai.com

If you’re looking for a tropical oceanfront property with an intimate feel, the Sheraton Kauai Resort on Poipu beach is it. Opt for the beach or ocean wing if you want to face the sea or choose the garden wing to overlook a pretty garden and waterfall area. Head to the Sheraton’s Activity Center for snorkeling and scuba equipment, boogie boards, and beach cabana rentals, or take a relaxing walk along Poipu beach. Guests will enjoy a variety of on-site delicious dining options, from Shells Steak and Seafood Restaurant to the more casual al fresco dining choice, Oasis Bar and Grill. For an eco-friendly twist, guests can attend the Sheraton’s Monk Seal Program on Wednesday nights at 6 p.m. This free presentation put on by the Kauai Monk Seal Watch Program teaches about one of the most endangered species on the planet. With only about 1,300 Monk Seals in Hawaii—around 25 in Kauai alone—the Monk Seal Program shows why protecting this species is so important.

Kauai Marriott Resort & Beach Club
(800)-220-2925
marriotthawaii.com

For a luxury property with all the amenities, try the Kauai Marriott Resort and Beach Club. And while the lavish bedding, on-site koi pond, tropical garden, and talkative parrots just outside the lobby are sure to hit big with you, the main attraction just might be the hotel’s pool. With 1.8 million black and light blue mosaic tiles, swim-up hot tubs, and 26,000 square feet of water, it’s the largest single-level pool in the state. But if it’s the beach you’re after, miles and miles of soft sand and swimmable ocean lie just steps behind the pool, which means that much of your time at the Marriott will probably be spent outdoors enjoying the natural beauty of Kauai either from a provided lounge chair with a tropical drink or by taking advantage of the nearby snorkeling, water skiing, hiking, and horseback riding. When you’re ready for a fantastic meal, you’ll get to choose from five open-air restaurants, including the resort’s Aupaka Terrace, where 100 percent biodegradable flatware and to-go containers are used, and the famous beachfront restaurant Duke’s Barefoot Bar and Grill.

Hanalei Colony Resort and Day Spa
(800) 628-3004
hcr.com

Built in 1969, Hanalei Colony Resort just might be Hawaii’s original eco-friendly resort. To its credit, the Hanalei Colony Resort has never offered any in-room distractions, and that includes televisions, phones, and radios. If you absolutely must, Internet access is available, but don’t let anything divert your attention from the beauty of this oceanfront condominium property. Each charming condo is equipped with a full kitchen, perfect for those looking to save some cash by preparing their own meals. For a delicious meal at the resort, head to the Hanalei Gourmet for Mediterranean-inspired fare. Named one of Kauai’s three best restaurants by Honolulu Magazine , the food is accented by the restaurant’s prime beachfront location. Shopping and coffee breaks coexist perfectly at the on-site NaPali Art Gallery and Coffee Shop. But if it’s ultimate indulgence you’re after, treat yourself to the Hanalei Day Spa. A variety of services is offered daily, from luxurious facials to invigorating body wraps. Guests can opt for their massages to be done by a talented therapist either beachside or in the spa.

Holo Holo Charters
(800) 848-6130
holoholocharters.com

Choose the morning Na Pali Snorkel Sail by Holo Holo Charters and you’ll spend five hours out on the ocean admiring the natural beauty of Kauai. You’ll see cascading waterfalls and mysterious sea caves along the cloud-capped Na Pali coast, and possibly even sea turtles, dolphins, or whales may prove the highlight of any trip. Breakfast, lunch, and alcoholic beverages are served on the boat—the latter after snorkeling, of course. Sunset and sightseeing cruises are also available.

Outfitters Kauai
(888) 742-9887
outfitterskauai.com

For an exciting outdoor adventure and a tropical trek down a once-royal river, try the Wailua River Kayak offered by Outfitters Kauai. As you paddle down Wailua River, the vibrant green plants and moss-covered cliffs surround you, making it easy to understand why Hawaiian royalty used to call it home. Once you arrive at your destination, it’s time for an easy to moderate hike (be advised that if it’s recently rained, a muddy trail makes this hike very slippery and a lot harder) led by a friendly guide. The payoff is a breathtaking 100-foot waterfall, swimming hole, and provided lunch—well worth any slips in the mud.

Ho’opulapula Haraguchi Rice Mill
(808) 651-3399
haraguchiricemill.org

Get a taste of Hawaii’s past and present with a tour of historic Haraguchi Rice Mill and Taro farm. As Hawaii’s last standing rice mill, the Haraguchi Rice Mill tour is an entertaining and informative lesson on Hawaii’s agricultural and cultural past. Family-owned, the 1880s rice mill and working taro farm are located in a wildlife refuge filled with nene goose, Koloa duck, and endangered water birds. Try a tasty taro smoothie and a full picnic lunch that includes farm-grown items such as poi, a local Hawaiian favorite made from taro.

Princeville Ranch Adventures
(888) 955-7669
adventureskauai.com

True adventure seekers will love the Jungle Valley Adventure by Princeville Ranch Adventures. Kayak, hike, and zip-line deep into Kauai’s rainforest interior led by knowledgeable and entertaining guides. Two zip-lines await the daring, but if you’re afraid to give it a try, don’t worry. The guides are reassuring and patient regarding any safety questions and fears. After your exhilarating zip, you’ll walk down to a twin waterfall swimming area while the guides set out a lunch of deli sandwiches, chips, and cookies.

Esprit De Corps Riding Academy
(808) 822-4688
kauaihorses.com

Saddle up for A Taste of Kauai horseback tour with Esprit De Corps Riding Academy. After an instruction on the basics, you’ll grab the reins and learn how to make your horse walk, turn, back up, and trot. You’ll get a true riding experience with this tour, and once you’re out on the trail, your guide will tell you stories about the land, point out spots where Jurassic Park was filmed, and even show you which edible fruits you can pick off trees along the way—fresh strawberries, pineapple guavas—yum.

Limahuli Garden and Preserve
(808) 826-1053
ntbg.org

Take a walk through ancient Hawaii at the Limahuli Garden and Preserve. With the Makana Mountain and Pacific Ocean as its backdrop, it’s no wonder the American Horticultural Society named the Limahuli Garden and Preserve the best natural botanical garden in the United States. The garden has a variety of native and invasive species as well as a plantation-era garden and the Limahuli Stream—one of the last untouched waterways left in Hawaii.

Ready to plan your trip? Regardless of how much time you have to spend in Kauai, be sure to sample everything this beautiful island offers, from relaxing beaches and outstanding seafood to outdoor adventures and stunning scenery. And no matter what type of Hawaiian experience you hope to have during your stay, whether it’s tasting local delicacies, participating in your first luau, going on a whale watch (whale season is December–April), or simply relaxing outdoors, the perfect climate and warm waters of the Pacific will make it possible year-round.

Visit the Kauai Visitors Bureau Web site—kauaidiscovery.com—for additional information.