Kauai, Hawaii
Kauai is one of the lesser known of Hawaii's islands. Though it lacks the cosmopolitan vibe of Oahu and the resorts and infrastructure of Maui, this island offers visitors plenty of natural and cultural attractions. It has become a popular island for eco-tourism and adventure travel. Many tourists, though, are simply looking for the quieter, more natural and more peaceful side of Hawaii.
State Parks and Wildlife Refuges
Kauai has more wild landscape than the more tourist-heavy islands like Oahu and Maui. This is evident in places like Huleia National Wildlife Refuge. The refuge is a popular place for bird watchers. There are several scenic lookout points in the area that will appeal to trekkers. Waimea Canyon is another scenic natural destination. This tropical canyon and alpine area is popular with trekkers, who can camp atop the canyon in Koke'e State Park.
Na Pali Coast
The Na Pali Coast was featured in films like Jurassic Park. Thousand foot cliffs drop down to blue sea, creating great photo opportunities. It can be seen from the water, via a sightseeing cruise or by driving along Kauai's Route 550. Helicopter tours are also available. Boat and kayak tours are often the best choice, because these allow visitors to set foot on the secluded beaches that sit between the water and the sheer cliffs.
Water Sports
Like visitors to the other Hawaiian islands, most people come to Kauai to enjoy water-based activities. Kauai's South Shore is the best place to sun, swim and dive. Maha'ulepu Beach is known for its idyllic landscape and calm waters. Po'ipu Beach is popular amongst snorkelers and SCUBA divers. Diving tours run by the islands resorts and dive shops leave daily from Po'ipu.
Waterfalls
Kauai's rugged landscape is home to some of the state's most scenic waterfalls. Kipu Falls, near the South Shore, was the setting for a scene in "Indiana Jones and the Raiders of the Lost Ark." Wailua Falls is a double waterfall that is only a short distance from the city of Lihue. Another convenient waterfall is Opaekaa Falls. It can be seen from an overlook point just off of Highway 580 along the coastline.
Tags: Kauai Hawaii, Pali Coast, seen from, South Shore