There are two parts to this museum. Every aspect of the island's history, starting at its formation and winding up at present, is covered in the permanent exhibit in the Rice Building. Historic displays include ancient artifacts, scientific diagrams, and turn-of-the-century photographs. The Wilcox Building houses the Mezzanine Gallery, which features an ever-changing display of works by professional and amateur local artists, as well as other exhibits and the gift shop. The museum-sponsored events are geared toward the local community and tourists.
A favorite place for hikers, campers and picnickers, this park is located on the western shore of Kauai. The centerpiece here is the spectacular Waimea Canyon. One of the best ways to see the canyon is to hike the easy Iliau Nature Loop, located between Mile Marker 8 and 9. The Koke'e Natural History Museum, located inside the park, is a great place to learn about the surroundings, research the trails or pick up a map. Kōkeʻe State Park offers an opportunity to connect with nature, explore diverse ecosystems, and experience the awe-inspiring beauty of Hawaii's uplands.
In California, tourists visit the wineries; in Hawaii they tour the coffee plantations. Kauai's largest coffee grower offers free tours around the estate. Visitors sip the finished product, wander among the coffee trees, and learn from the experts how coffee gets to the cup. This company is located on the Koloa Estate, a 3,400-acre estate that is known for its red dirt and pesticide-free practices.
If you want to get an idea of what the island looked like when sugar cane was the main industry, visit this restored historic property. Its many exhibits and displays give hints of what life was like on the sugar plantations of the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Tour the grounds, which at one point spanned 80 acres, or read up on literature. This is, understandably, a very popular destination for people on school field trips, cultural seminars and other educational excursions. Call in advance and reserve a time to tour the grounds.
Located at the northern end of Kauai, Hanalei Bay is a long stretch of mesmerizing beauty. The picturesque setting of Hanalei Bay is perfect for a picnic with the family, and the turquoise sea is ideal for adventure sports. This crescent bay is fringed with palm trees, with the majestic mountains overlooking the beach. Winters bring an ideal atmosphere for surfers, while summers see a surge of swimmers and sailboats here.
Iraivan Temple is a temple dedicated to Lord Shiva on the Kauai Island, Hawaii. Maintained by Kauai’s Hindu monastery, this impressive structure is said to be the first all-stone, white granite structure built in the Western Hemisphere. A magnificent six-sided, single pointed uncut quarts crystal, believed as one of the largest one ever found of its kind forms the centerpiece of this beautiful place. Located near the Wailua River, it is among the must-visit places in Hawaii.
What sort of attraction could possibly have earned a name like Sleeping Giant? A mountain that looks like one, of course. This Kauai landmark can be viewed from the eastern shore of the island. It can also be a day's hike, for anyone with an inclination to see the view from its summit. As with many natural wonders on the Hawaiian Islands, there is a legend to go along with the name of this mountain: a giant named Puni was resting, but somebody decided that they wanted to wake him up. They threw rocks that were intended to rouse Puni from his nap, but instead, lodged in his mouth and suffocated him. Now Puni will sleep forever in his spot by the Wailua River.
Interesting and easily accessible, this wet cave is located along Kuhio Highway at Mile Marker 10. Along the roadside just down the road from Haena Beach Park, this cave is a fascinating spot to observe a spring-fed pond. Hewn by the forces of nature, the wet cave is steeped in lore and legend, and its existence is often attributed to the goddess Pele. Although the cave is fed by springs, tidal movements occasionally dictate its water levels. Parking is easily allowed anywhere near the cave entrance as long as it does not impede traffic.
A favorite place for hikers, campers and picnickers, this park is located on the western shore of Kauai. The centerpiece here is the spectacular Waimea Canyon. One of the best ways to see the canyon is to hike the easy Iliau Nature Loop, located between Mile Marker 8 and 9. The Koke'e Natural History Museum, located inside the park, is a great place to learn about the surroundings, research the trails or pick up a map. Kōkeʻe State Park offers an opportunity to connect with nature, explore diverse ecosystems, and experience the awe-inspiring beauty of Hawaii's uplands.
Shaped like a crescent moon and edged by emerald Ironwood trees, the picturesque Kalihiwai Bay is permeated with a balmy atmosphere. A brilliant surfing destination in winter and a popular spot for fishing and swimming during scorching summers, Kalihiwai Bay boasts clear blue waters which glint marvelously under the Hawaiian sun. The beach adjoining the bay bears pristine white sand, while its warm waters play host to an array of activities like swimming, surfing and kayaking. Flanked by staggering lava cliffs, Kalihiwai Bay is like a scene drawn straight out of a postcard.
The Kalalau Lookout is a breathtaking viewpoint located on the Hawaiian island of Kauai. Situated on the western side of the island within the Koke'e State Park, the lookout offers panoramic views of the famous Na Pali Coast and the Kalalau Valley. The Kalalau Lookout is perched at an elevation of approximately 4,000 feet (1,219 meters), providing a stunning vantage point to admire the dramatic cliffs, lush green valleys, and the vast expanse of the Pacific Ocean. The view is especially remarkable during sunrise and sunset when the changing light casts beautiful hues on the landscape, creating a truly magical atmosphere.
Located at the northern end of Kauai, Hanalei Bay is a long stretch of mesmerizing beauty. The picturesque setting of Hanalei Bay is perfect for a picnic with the family, and the turquoise sea is ideal for adventure sports. This crescent bay is fringed with palm trees, with the majestic mountains overlooking the beach. Winters bring an ideal atmosphere for surfers, while summers see a surge of swimmers and sailboats here.