The Island of Kauai is the northernmost and oldest of the islands that make up the state of Hawaii, according to the Kauai Visitors Bureau. The island's 550 square miles of land offer a wealth of attractions for tourists that are unique to Kauai. Visitors to these attractions can engage in a variety of activities and experience a vacation that can't be duplicated anywhere else.
Waimea Canyon State Park
Waimea Canyon State Park is about 11 miles north of the town of Kekaha on the west side of Kauai. The Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources oversees the facility. The park serves one of Kauai's unique landforms, a canyon that extends to a depth of 3,600 feet. Visitors to Waimea Canyon State Park can hike to the floor of the canyon via the Kukui Trail. The trail travels 2.5 miles, with more than a 2,400 foot change in elevation from beginning to end. With its rocky terrain, the hike is difficult, but it provides a one-of-a-kind view of Waimea Canyon. The park is open daily, year round, and no entry fee is charged. Restrooms are located at the park, but drinking water isn't available.
Allerton Garden
A section of the National Tropical Botanical Garden, Allerton Garden is in the Lawai Valley, south of the town of Kalaheo on the south shore of Kauai. The U.S. Congress commissioned the park in 1964, making it the first and only tropical botanical garden that has a federal charter. The National Tropical Botanical Garden hosts guided tours of Allerton Garden. The tour includes a tram ride and walk, and lasts about 2 and 1/2 hours. Visitors hear about the history of the park area and learn about many of the tropical plants found throughout the garden. The Allerton Garden is open daily throughout the year, and no admission fee is assessed. The cost of the guided tour was $45 as of October 2010, with reduced rates for children. Reservations are required for the tour. Restrooms and drinking water are located at the gardens,.
Russian Fort Elizabeth State Historical Park
Russian Fort Elizabeth State Historical Park is located along the mouth of the Waimea River off Kaumuali'i Highway on the west side of Kauai. The area is the site of a former Russian military installation built and operated from 1815 to 1817. The spot is the only surviving site of its kind in the state of Hawaii. Visitors can tour the remnants of the facilities in a self-guided walk, with an accompanying brochure to help point out the history and interesting spots at the park. The park also provides views of the Waimea River and the surrounding valley. The park is open daily throughout the year, with no admission fee. Restrooms and drinking water are available.
Tags: Allerton Garden, Waimea Canyon, Canyon State, Canyon State Park, drinking water, open daily