Kauai's 5 Must See Tourist Attractions

Kauai, also known as the Garden Isle, is the fourth largest of the Hawaiian Islands. At only 25 miles wide and 33 miles long, it may seem like there couldn’t be much to explore. But that’s really the secret surprise awaiting anyone exploring Hawaii.

Whereas the Waikiki tourist is happy to be stay close to the comforts of their hotel, Kauai visitors can’t but be drawn from their nest, seeking out the scenery that has made Kauai famous in movies like Jurassic Park. The following is a guide to 5 easily accessible, must see natural attractions.

Waimea Canyon

Waimea Canyon is known as the Grand Canyon of the Pacific. How did such a large Canyon manage for form at the center of such a small land mass?

Like much of Hawaii’s impressive scenery, volcanic activity combined with millions of years of wind erosion is the answer.

The drive from sea level to the Canyon will reward you with many memorable views including one of Niihau, the Forbidden Island, where a small Hawaiian community lives mostly isolated from the modern world.

Napali Coast

The Napali Coast is 11 miles of isolated coastline, marked by beautiful cliffs, waterfalls and valleys.

Experienced hikers can follow an ancient hiking trail along the coast to the Kalalau Valley.

Most will experience this region with either a boat or helicopter tour, while casual hikers can do the first couple miles as a day hike to Hanakapiai Falls.

Kilauea Lighthouse

During the winter months thousands of Humpback whales migrate to the warm waters of Hawaii to give birth.

A good place to see them is at the Kilauea Point Nation Wildlife Refuge on the island’s north coast, from the scenic cliffs visitors will also see many seabirds as well as the Nene – the endangered Hawaiian Goose.

Wailua Falls

Kauai has many waterfalls. After periods of rain a drive through the town of Hanalei may include views of a dozen different falls gushing from the north Shore Mountains.

Kauai’s most famous waterfall is Wailua Falls, a pleasant drive through mostly uninhabited countryside ends at the Falls.

Polihale State Park

Kauai is known for its secluded beaches. Polihale State Park marks the end of the longest beach in Hawaii, one that stretches for nearly twelve miles.

Polihale is located on the west side of the island, away from the popular tourist resorts.

Getting to the beach requires driving over a dirt road, but you may even have the beach to yourself.

This post was brought to you by Kuhio Shores Resort, an oceanfront condominium development 50ft from the ocean in Poipu on the south side of Kauai.