Some people love Kauai more than any other island. Many people plan for their periodic annual vacation time, and Hawaii is an enduringly popular destination for tourists.
Kauai is the fourth largest of the main islands that make up Hawaii. It is known as the 'Garden Island' due to its green valleys, jagged cliffs, waterfalls, and tropical rainforests.
Even if you're renting a luxury villa or staying at a posh resort, if you are an adventure buff looking forward to an adrenaline-filled vacation, here are ten things to do in Kauai that you're sure to enjoy.
1. Hiking the Kalalau Trail
The Na Pali Coast is an exquisite natural wonder and hiking the 11-mile Kalalau Trail, which leads to it, is the best way to take in this majestic coastline.
The soaring cliffs, blue waters, pristine Hawaiian scenery, streams and waterfalls within the valleys and untouched wilderness are just some of the natural wonders you will encounter.
You can opt to cover the entire 11-mile hike across the Na Pali Coast or settle on the first two glorious miles.
If you want to hike more without covering the whole Coast, then you can go for just the first four miles to Hanakapi’ai Falls.
2. Catch the Sunrise at Larsen’s Beach
Larsen's Beach is an out-of-the-way stretch of white sand that offers quiet ocean views and walks.
For early risers visiting Kauai, this can be a wonderful place to start their day on the Garden Isle. Since the beach is east-facing, you can wake up early and catch the sunrise.
Once the sun has risen, you will likely have the Beach to yourself or a few other souls. Bring a book or paper and read in silence, or enjoy some semi-private sunbathing.
3. Have Fun in The Water at Shipwreck’s Beach
If you are a surfer or surfing enthusiast, visiting Shipwreck's Beach near Poipu will be a fun outing in Kauai.
The Beach features waves that crash along the shoreline and reef, beckoning the surfer or boogie boarder to catch a ride.
Should you only fancy watching, head over to the rock formation next to the Beach and climb up the trail for a fantastic view.
Due to the breaking surf, it's not suitable for swimming or children, as the waves and currents that surfers love make it treacherous for casual beachgoers.
4. Get to the Top of the Sleeping Giant
Behind Wailua, the mountains form the shape of a sleeping giant, as best seen from the city of Kapa'a perspective below.
The Sleeping Gant is a 3.5-mile moderate-level hike. The trail terminates at the top of the Nounou mountain, which has a stunning view and is a favorite picnic spot.
The terrain is known to become muddy and slippery, so plan your hike with that in mind.
5. Kayak Along the Wailua River
The 100-foot Uluwehi Falls, nicknamed 'Secret Falls,' is breathtaking.
While the falls are an open secret, getting to them is still not easy. If you have the time, you can opt for a guided tour or set up a kayaking excursion along the Wailua River and then take a short hike to the waterfall.
As you head to the waterfall, you will be kayaking upstream, so prepare for a ride against the current.
6. Witness the Waimea Canyon's Dramatic Vistas
If you are a landscape buff, taking in the colorful ravines of Waimea Canyon is a must.
Waimea Canyon is ten miles long and more than 3,600 feet deep. It bursts with colors that rival the Grand Canyon, and the image will stay with you for a long time. Hence its nickname, "Grand Canyon of the Pacific."
Remember to carry a jacket as it can get windy at the higher viewing sights.
7. Jump into the Queen’s Bath
The Queen's Bath is a pool created by the ocean water coming in with the tide and crashing over a natural pool in the rocky shoreline. Technically, it is a sinkhole with rocks around it shaped in a way that allows the pooling of water by waves washing over the rocks.
The visceral nature of the waves crashing into it (especially during the cooler months) makes diving into the pool an adrenalin adventure.
It's important to note that this water can be too rough during the winter to make swimming in the bath safe, so please be sure to check the day's surf report to swim safely.
8. Take a Hardcore Hike to Blue Hole of Mt. Waialeale
Some waterfalls in Kauai require an extremely difficult hike to reach. If you are an adventure buff, a trip to the Blue Hole of Mt. Waialeale will get your adrenaline pumping.
The Blue Hole is where the falls come down the wall, which is one of the wettest places on Earth.
The hike to the Blue Hole is tricky and can be dangerous. You can get lost in the jungle and face flash floods. It's a good idea to secure a local guide or only go if you're an experienced hiker.
9. A Kauai Helicopter Tour
Taking a helicopter tour around Kauai will allow you to see waterfalls that are otherwise inaccessible.
The pilot can also descend into the ravine of Waimea Canyon, which gives a much closer look at the colorful landscape.
To make the flight even more exhilarating, choose a doors-off helicopter tour. Wow!
10. Check out the Spouting Horn
The Spouting Horn is an extremely popular photography attraction located on the South Shore of Kauai.
The horn is a lava tube that shoots water up when the waves crash against the shore, creating a blowhole of sorts. The magnificent jet of water can reach as high as 50 feet.
If you're lucky, you can also spot humpback whales when you visit between December and May.
So, are you ready to explore Kauai? We hope so, as it's a special Hawaiian island, unique in the chain and all the world.
Exotic Estates goes above and beyond to service the needs of its discerning travelers looking for quality vacation rentals. Talk to us today for a tailored luxury Kauai holiday experience filled with adventure.
