Top Kauai hotels
This was such a fantastic thing to do, I have absolutely no regrets with my decision. Our pilot was very skilled and knowledgeable with his information that the flight almost wasn't long enough.This is the only way to see the Island of Kauai, you get to view area's that you wouldn't normally even get close too.
This was a flight I was planning, and on the first sunny day, I headed to the airport to hop on for my thrilling flight. I was anxious and impatient to wait until the pilot got back, so shopping down the line at the other air tours, I decided on Air Kauai, a helicopter.But for a different ride, I definately would consider taking the Biplane.
Kipu Falls Zipline Safari with hike and Kayak sounds ideal for a little excitment.You must be able to walk two miles and Kayak for 60 to 90 minutes.The cost of this adventure is $165.00 pp plus 4.167% tax for adults.
I was quite disappointed the last time I visited Kauai--they have totally blocked off Spouting Horn. You used to be able to walk along the lava rocks and get an "up close and personal" view of the blow hole. Now it's fenced off.Even so, Spouting Horn is worth the visit--not just because it's an awesome sight, but because of the sound of the air and the water being forced through the hole, and the sound of the water crashing down on the lava rock is unbelievable.Apparently there used to be a much bigger blow hole in this same lava bench that sprayed much higher and wider than the existing Spouting Horn blow hole. However, one of the managers at the sugar plantation decided to blow-up, thus destroying the blow hole, because the salt water it emitted was destroying a relatively small portion of his crops.Beware of the many vendors selling cheap trinkets and other touristy stuff as you walk...
This is a wonderful beach for small kids and snorkeling. The beach is surrounded by a protective reef which makes for a wonderful swimming beach for the youngin's. The reef also provides pretty good snorkeling. If the surf is too high up on the North shore, or the visibility at Lydgate is bad--the snorkeling is typically much better here. Right next to the beach is a playground for the little ones to romp on, making this the ideal spot for families. They have showers, restrooms, and changing facilities as well as picnic tables.
Waimea Canyon has been called the Grand Canyon of the Pacific--though I think that it is much more beautiful than it's mainland counterpart. At Waimea, there is a rich tapestry of colors that you won't find at the Grand Canyon with the red, iron-rich soil, the green plants, and the blue sky (or if you're there on a cloudy day, a greyish-white sky!). You can see waterfalls dripping down the canyon walls--especially after a rain. Sometimes when you go there, it can be "white out" conditions, meaning you can't see a thing. Don't be discouraged. Just come back later in the day, and it will have cleared up and you'll see some amazing views.There are several hiking trails that start from here and there are many wonderful vantage points along the way and even further up the road from the canyon lookout. As you're driving to the canyon lookout, you can see Ni'ihau. Further up the road, you can...
Ke'e Beach is so tempermental! Some days the water is like glass and you can snorkel. On others the waves pound you into the ground, making this an undesirable swimming beach. The day that we went, it was moderate. Regardless of the surf, Ke'e is gorgeous.Ke'e Beach is the last beach that you can reach by car, and is at the trail head for the Kalalau hiking trail. Many hikers cool off in the water here after a long day of hiking.
Another site that must be seen on Kauai is the 'Opaeka'a Falls in Wailua. I think that the 'Opaeka'a falls are much prettier than the Wailua falls as the area surrounding the falls is much more lush. However, the pool below, unlike the Wailua falls, is totally inaccessible. Just across the street from the falls, there is a lookout over the Wailua River which is quite beautiful.
Kilauea Lighthouse is a landmark on the North shore of Kauai. It is stunningly beautiful perched high above the ocean on a cliff. The white of the lighthouse contrasts nicely with the surrounding blue of the ocean and the green and black of the cliffs. This lighthouse houses the largest clamshell lense in existence today. The lighthouse is no longer in use, and is open to tourists. There is a $3 charge to enter, but the views are well worth it. The lighthouse is adjacent to a bird sanctuary, so you'll enjoy watching the birds dart about.
Kipu falls are absolutely gorgeous and very accessible. They are one of the few falls on the island that you can enter and frolick in. There is a rope swing to use to launch yourself into the pool below, or you can jump off the small cliff. Whichever you choose it's sure to be fun! Again, being 7 months pregnant, I wasn't able to do either. But, it's still worth visiting. The area surrounding the falls and the drive to get there is quite nice.
The Villas at Poipu Kai Poipu
63 Opinions
Hale Ho`o Maha Bed & Breakfast Hanalei
109 Opinions
ResortQuest Islander on the Beach Kapaa
2 Reviews and 725 Opinions The Islander is an unpretentious, comfortable resort hotel with a little funky edge but certainly...
Reviews and photos of Kauai attractions posted by real travelers and locals. The best tips for Kauai sightseeing.
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Q: My wife and I leave tomorrow for a 7 night stay in the Lihue area of Kauai. We've booked a rental car and will be touring the...
A: See my tip for the Luau on Kauai. That's a dining experience you can't miss, and there are several of them which provide some kind of discount ticket.
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