Aloha, friends!
Planning details of clients' trips is actually fun for me, but even if you’re not a planner and don’t like fussing over the details, let me give you an example of how planning will be well worth the effort. I PROMISE!
For example, what comes to mind when you think of Hawaii? For me, it’s palm trees, pineapples, mai tai cocktails – and gorgeous beaches. But Hawaii has so much more to offer besides sun and sand (and a drink in your hand). Sorry, I just had to throw that in there.
Here are 5 incredibly unique things to do on the Garden Isle of Kauai, Hawaii, besides visiting the beach:
- The Nāpali Coast is one of the most recognizable coastlines in the world. Regal mountains and fluted peaks embellished with dramatic sea caves ending abruptly at the sea make it the epitome of paradise. Waterfalls and swift flowing streams continue to cut these narrow valleys while the sea carves cliffs at their mouths.
- For the most visual coverage, consider a plane or helicopter tour. By air you will also view the giant waterfall filmed in Jurassic Park. Although it is an expensive excursion, it is also an unforgettable experience. Many people state they have been brought to tears by witnessing the magnificence of the island. Most plane and helicopter tours of the entire island are around 60 minutes. But to see everything this means limited time at the Nāpali Coast cliffs.
- If you really want to see the cliffs, consider a boat tour. Whether by catamaran (for a leisure viewing at a distance) or an expedition raft (to get you closer to the caves and under the waterfalls), a tour via water ranges from 4-6 hours. Tours can include a snorkel stop, a picnic lunch, or even a sunset dinner cruise.
- The Kalalau Trail is a famous 11-mile hike ONLY for the adventurous who have no fear of heights and enduring stamina. The entire hike along the coastline will take more than a single day and you need a hiking permit to camp overnight along the trail. For those less experienced, there is a sign posted at the 2-mile marker indicating …this is as far as you go.
- The Waimea Canyon is also referred to as the Grand Canyon of the Pacific. It was probably my favorite thing to do and see on Kauai. You could spend an entire day just driving up the winding road to the canyon, stopping at every lookout along the way. The canyon has it all – rustic beauty, waterfalls, and rainbows. If you want to get up close, plan an afternoon to hike the Canyon Trail, which leads to two waterfalls. It’s a strenuous hike, but less than the Kalalau Trail, and definitely worth the sweat and sore muscles to reach the end. (May I suggest researching the alternate starting point. There is a parking lot accessible a bit down the road that gives you a jump-start to the hike. On your hike back, you’ll thank me for mentioning this tip!).
- Red Dirt Falls can easily be seen (and experienced) from a roadside stop along your drive up to Waimea Canyon. Simply park your car alongside the road, step over the guard rail and you will immediately see the waterfall. Spend 20-30 minutes just wandering around the rust-colored dirt surrounding this unusual waterfall. There are even souvenir shops that sell Red Dirt t-shirts, but after a few minutes walking around you can have your own dirt-stained clothes. Be warned; red dirt is everywhere.
- What’s a trip to Hawaii without experiencing an authentic Luau? There are several luaus offered on the island and you can’t go wrong with any of them. My recommendation is Smith’s Family Garden Luau. It’s been family run for over 50 years so they know what they’re doing. Arrive at least 30-60 minutes before the dinner so you have time to explore the 30-acre botanical and cultural garden.
- Shave Ice is another Hawaiian custom, often mistakenly called “shaved ice.” Shave ice is an ice-based dessert made by shaving a block of ice. Although shave ice can resemble a snow cone, snow cones are made with crushed ice. A properly made shave ice product rarely requires a straw, since the flavors are in the ice and not at the bottom of the cup. You really have to experience a genuine shave ice to appreciate the difference. You just can’t leave Hawaii without trying one.
I’m definitely NOT at all suggesting that you skip a day at the beach, but I don’t want you to miss out of some of the more unusual activities and highlights that Kauai has to offer that you won’t find anywhere else in the world. These are only five suggestions, but there are many more non-beach highlights on Kauai. (I actually had a difficult time selecting my Top Five.) If you’re interested in seeing what else Kauai has to offer, I’d love to help plan your trip to this beautiful island. Simply reply to this email and let’s get you there!