The sea cliffs of Kauai's west side tower above the wild and beautiful ocean, sometimes reaching as high as 4,000 feet (1219.2 meters) above sea level. They give Na Pali its name, which is Hawaiian for "The Cliffs." The rugged cliffs and lush tropical vegetation truly make the Na Pali coast one of the most unspoiled and gorgeous in the world. In addition to being considered one of the most beautiful coastlines in the world, this 17-mile (16.37-kilometer) stretch also offers some of the world's best hiking. Less hardy sightseers will want to tour the area by helicopter or boat.
Although wintertime waves can be prohibitively big, summer and spring snorkeling on this beach is considered the best that Kaua'i has to offer. The beach is a vision: turquoise water and golden sand against a brilliant backdrop of towering black cliffs. When the water is calm (as it often is in the summer), it is possible to see hundreds of tropical fish. The best and safest snorkeling is by the reef. Always check with locals and lifeguards before entering the water - and do not touch the coral reef.
A number of seabirds, including shearwaters, red-footed boobies and albatross can be seen at this reserve. Indigenous plant life also thrives. While experts will probably come prepared, regular tourists will appreciate the on-loan binoculars and the refuge's volunteer staff. Sometimes whales or other inhabitants of the sea can be glimpsed in the waters below Lighthouse Point. Do not forget to stop by the old lighthouse (an attraction in its own right) before leaving.
Old Koloa Town, a historic town which is usually visited by locals as well as the tourists wanting to shop, eat or just have a tour of the island’s historical buildings. However, it is the Historic Center where one gain some knowledge about the town through the artifacts and the photographic displays. Patrons can also buy some local fresh fruits and vegetables here or can also shop for souvenirs and other local products. You can also spend your time indulging yourself in some authentic flavors at the various restaurants here. One of the most happening areas on the island, Old Koloa Town is a must visit during your time in Kauai.
A perfect date with marvelous views of the setting sun and gently lashing waves can be experienced at Hanalei Beach. Walk on the soft sand or rest on the sea shore to enjoy a quiet and tranquil moment. The bay is protected ensuring the waters are not too choppy and this makes it safe for children to paddle boat in the not too deep areas. Numerous options exist around to grab a bite after an enjoyable day at the beach.
Known as the "Grand Canyon of the Pacific," Waimea Canyon State Park boasts rugged cliffs, verdant valleys, and cascading waterfalls that stretch as far as the eye can see. This park also comprises beautiful hiking trails that are sure to soothe your eyes and calm your mind. The exhilarating Waipo'o Falls Trail and the tranquil Kukui Trail feature a rare variety of flora and fauna that are truly worth admiring. This canyon also offers a breathtaking view of Waimea Canyon’s colorful gorge. Here, you can take a scenic drive whilst also capturing amazing photographs. While you will come across several viewpoints, the viewpoint of Ni‘ihau Island is to look out for. Those interested can indulge in fishing and hunting activities during the specified seasons. Waimea Canyon State Park is a great place to set up a picnic with your loved ones and admire the beauty of nature.
The three specialized sections of this company provide visitors with a complete look around the island of Kauai. Kauai Mountain Tours offers four-wheel-drive tours and hiking excursions around Palii-Kona Forest Reserve and Koke'e Park. Kauai Backroads goes where no tour company has gone before, trekking around private property and bumpy back roads. SeaFun Kauai provides tourists with the opportunity to snorkel the top spots off the Kauai coast. Take one tour or all three. The photo ops are endless.
Head for marine adventures with Blue Ocean Adventure Tours. Not only does the tour company organize snorkelling tours where patrons can have a glimpse of more than 200 species of local marine life including sea turtles and dolphins but boating tours where one can learn more about the history of the fishing villages on the Napali Coast. Private charters can also be organized and the snorkelling tours are suitable for children and adults alike. Whether you want to spend quality time with your partner or your family, a trip with Blue Ocean Adventure Tours will certainly delight you.
Art House Hawaii is a famous art studio and gallery which showcases the contemporary creations that were conceptualized and made by Julie Berg, the gallery's owner. She is known for her oil paintings, using an array of textures to convey the mood and the message of her paintings. In addition to her work the gallery also exhibits the works of other local artists like Joe Kattan, Camille Paige, and Kim Bass. The gallery also operates as a jamming space wherein local musicians jam, adding an extra dimension to this artsy place.
The presence of native Hawaiian tour guides adds an element to these tours that you cannot find elsewhere. In addition to gaining knowledge about the ecology and current situation in Kaua'i, participants in these excursions also gain insight into Hawaii's past. The ship captains, all native Hawaiians, share Hawaiian legends, natural history and familial anecdotes with passengers. The tours venture along the Na Pali coastline, home to sea caves and spinner dolphins, whales and waterfalls.
The aim of Captain Andy and his stalwart crew is to ensure that each guest has the maximum amount of fun. People who want to cruise and play will probably be more than happy with the Captain's itinerary. Sunset sails, whale watches, day cruises and half-day sailing adventures are offered. All of them provide the opportunity to spot whales (in season), spinner dolphins or other beloved Hawaiian marine denizens. Day cruises offer a buffet lunch; evening cruises include cocktails.
Kauai, thought by many to be the most gorgeous island paradise in the world, has been the scene of many, well, scenes. Movie scenes, that is. Blockbuster films such as "Jurassic Park", "Honeymoon in Vegas" and "Raiders of the Lost Ark" have been shot on Kauai, Hawaii's oldest island. The state's only movie tour operator provides high-energy, family-oriented tours of Kauai's most famous movie locations—and some lesser-known ones, as well. New in the autumn of 2002: sites from "The Time Machine" and "Lilo & Stitch".