If you’re thinking about a trip to Hawaii, you have a lot of great islands to choose from. While Hawaii is made up of more than one hundred islands, about eight of those islands are considered tourist hotspots. As you may have guessed, each island offers something a little different. If you’re looking for a calm, beautiful vacation without all the hustle and bustle of tourist’s traps, consider visiting Kauai. Kauai offers beautiful landscapes, turquoise water and plenty of sunshine. If you’re planning a trip to the “Garden Isle,” consider checking out these attractions:
Hanalei Bay
This pristine spot is a great place to catch some rays. The island juts inward on the northern part of the island, creating a calm bay that’s great for swimming. Take a swim in blue-green waters with the mountains sprawling out in the background. There’s a great beach area that’s usually not too crowded. You won’t find this place overrun by tourist shops and giant air-conditioned malls. There’s one small, older strip mall that sells t-shirts and knick-knacks and that’s about it. You’ll also find a great spot for shaved ice, a Hawaii staple, across from the old school shopping area.
Na Pali Coast
If you’re looking for breathtaking sites, take the time to check out the Na Pali Coast.
The area is one of few untouched areas, which is why you can only access it by foot, boat or helicopter. If you’re hiker, get your hands on a map and pick a few trails to check out. Either way, this protected area is a must-see if you’re visiting Kauai. You’ll find several tour agencies that offer helicopter and boat tours of the area. Be sure to book these tours before you arrive because they tend to fill up fast. Most companies have an online booking feature. In some cases, you’ll make your reservation through the company’s wordpress booking plugin, which is easy to navigate.
Poipu Beach
A lot of mainstream hotels are located along Poipu Beach, so it’s likely you’ll be staying right on the beach. The Poipu area is more populated, so you’ll find more tourist attractions and shopping adventures in this area. It’s a great place to lounge in the sun. Many hotels set out beach chairs for guests and even have wait staff circulating to bring guests food and drinks. The beach is a bit rocky and depending on what time of year you visit, the current might be a bit too strong to wander too far into the ocean, but it’s still an impressive place to relax and take in the sun’s rays.
Waimea Canyon
Known as the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific” this geological wonder is an impressive
site. The canyon stretches across 14 miles of the western part of Kauai and has dozens of easily accessible lookouts and trails. Whether you want to snap a picture and go on your way, or strap on your hiking boots for a more intimate look, you’ll have plenty of options inside the park.
