Book for a month, you’ll need it. Kauai is a miniature world, with a stunning array of features you won’t see anywhere else on Earth. The island is crowned by a big complex of mountain and ridges which spread like a flower across the inland, and in the west, reaches the Pacific. There are five regions in Kauai which are all different, all beautiful, and all fascinating.

This is the sort of place you really have to explore and enjoy:

1. Natural Kauai

You can almost feel the desperation of the photographers and artists, trying to do Kauai justice. The place is a riot of color, constantly evolving every day into new, spectacular visions. Even the vegetation produces a few rainbows of its own. Kauai, like Hawaii, has its own unique wildlife and plants. If you’re not surrounded by birds of paradise, you’re surrounded by flowers. On foot, on bike, car or by helicopter, it’s incredible.

2. Kauai beaches

Kauai has 50 miles of beaches, all dazzling. These are the real white sand beaches, and they come with some of the Pacific’s most magical waters, a true array of beauty and secret places. These beaches are one of the reasons visitors don’t want to leave Kauai, and it will take you about a quarter of a second to figure out why. Swim, snorkel, scuba, gossip with the dolphins, and have a ball.

Important: These are real surf beaches, sometimes with monster waves. Kauai tries hard to make sure its guests stay safe, and these giants are definitely better appreciated from a safe distance.

3. Kauai culture

If you’re not familiar with the various different types of Polynesian culture, this culture goes a long way beyond the tourist image. A very rough parallel would be Native American culture, with a huge range of oral traditions and tales Aesop would have appreciated. Look and learn, because this is very much a living culture, with a lot to give.

4. Kauai food

One of the great joys of Kauai is the food. No amount of description really expresses the quality of this food. This is real tropical food, it’s healthy, it’s natural, and it’s delicious. The combination of luxury, beauty and fabulous food may make you want to stay for an extra decade or so, but that’s normal.

5. Kauai shopping

Equally addictive as the island itself, the shopping is a good mix of fun and fascination. They do things well on Kauai, and the shopping is no exception. If you actually need a Wal-Mart, they’ve got one, but the shopping on Kauai is also regional, and you’ll instantly see the difference between real Hawaiian and the imitations. It’s no contest. From eco-shoes to mind-blowing glassware, the best is on offer.

The Hanalei Bridge built in 1912 (15 ton limit) is the first in a series of seven one lane bridges that must be crossed to reach the end of the road, or Ke’e beach (and the beginning of the Kalalau Trail). A certain amount of “bridge etiquette” is needed to maintain the peace. Most vehicles
cross in groups, when in doubt “YIELD”.

I heard that the Wainiha Bridge on the north shore was actually lowered from a 8 ton bridge to a 6 ton bridge. Probably due to the beating it takes from traffic and the elements. This bridge is actually two bridges a short one and a long one, with a little center patch in between. Crossing can be tricky, especially during summertime when traffic is high. You have traffic from both directions plus a road from the inland valley that intersect into the center of both bridges.

Hanalei Bridge, Kauai

The “Fall Down” bridge still has historical damage from a tsunami back in 1957. Part on bridge railing is actually pointing downward, then it appears stone was placed in the missing void of the old bridge to complete the rail. The Fall Down bridge is located toward the end of Hanalei Bay.

As you leave Princeville the first bridge starts with the Hanalei Bridge, I think they might even call it the Hanalei Hertitage Bridge now. Anyway remember bridge etiquette, 5-7 vehicles is considered local courtesy. Then let the oncoming traffic cross the bridge.

There are numerous locations on the Garden Isle you can take surf lessons. From Hanalei Bay on the North shore to Poipu Beach on the South shore. The best spots for beginning surfers are the areas of the beach with a sand bottom and no coral reef. Most of the surf schools utilize “soft top” surfboards for beginners. Points to look for when searching for a surf school. Make sure the instructors are CPR and first aid trained, and lifeguard certified.

Hanalei Bay Surfers

The Hanalei Bay area on the north shore of Kauai has some great surf schools to experience. One of the best is the Hawaiian School of Surfing, which is owned and operated by Titus Kinimaka. Small group or private lessons are available. Lessons are taught in Hanalei Bay with a wide variety of beginner friendly surf spots. The locations are sand bottom breaks not coral. Beginner lessons last around 90 minutes. After your lesson is over they let use their equipment for the entire day at no extra cost to you. Telephone (808) 821-1003.

Kauai Surf School is located in Poipu on the South shore of the island. They offer both group and private lessons to the beginning or intermediate surfer. Kauai Surf School offers all the necessary equipment, including beginner surfboard, reef shoes, rash guard. Children ages 9 and up are welcome. Group lessons last for 90 minutes with 30 minutes of free surfing after your lesson. Reservations must be made in advance at 808-651-6032.

Surf n Sol Kauai offers all inclusive surf trip packages. Packages include meals, transportation to and from the airport, surf lessons, yoga, massage. And a day trip to the Napali Coast, and another north shore beach. Check them out at www.surfnsol.com.

In the winter months surfing the north shore of Kauai is only recommended for advanced skill level surfers. Rip currents and large waves can be dangerous for beginners.

A little know fact is that Kauai grows sixty percent of the state of Hawaii’s coffee. Since the 1800s Kauai was the first of the Hawaiian islands to produce coffee commercially. Kauai coffee is a 100% U.S. product, and estate coffee workers are some of the highest paid in the world. Most coffees found on Kauai are usually organically grown, and use hydroelectric generators to power all operations. Harvest time on Kauai is usually October through December. Coffee plantations in Kauai cultivate upwards of 3,400 acres.

Several varieties of coffee are grown on Kauai. Seed types include Catuai, Typica, Blue Mountain,and Mundo Novo. Tours are usually offered at most of Kauai’s coffee plantations along with free samples. Many of these are self guided walking tours. Nothing taste like a fresh cup of Kauai coffee, from coffee beans grown perfectly in rich volcanic soil.

The Koa Plantation offers private tours which can be arranged by contact the Koa Planation directly at 866-562-5282. The plantation is located in the town of Captain Cook on the south side of the island.

The Kauai Coffee company is another coffee plantation that offers tours. You can take a self guided walking tour through the different varieties of coffee trees. Signs display the five coffee types, and the process. Learn about the history of the coffee grown on the estate. The process of coffee from blossom, to harvesting, and then to processing and roasting.

At the Kauai Coffee company visitors center you can sample their entire line of coffees grown on the estate. Every bean is grown right at the plantation, no imported beans are used.

Located around 17 miles from the Lihue airport, on Kauai’s southwest side. Just off highway 50 which is the main highway on the way to Waimea.

The Tropical Taco truck used to be an actual delivery truck, painted  green and white with red hubcaps. The truck drove all around the North Shore of Kauai to the different beaches selling delicious tacos  for over twenty years. Now  days Tropical Taco is a sit-down restaurant located in Halele’a Building in Hanalei Town.

Some of the favorites on the menu include the original Tropical Taco. This is a beef taco with a thick handmade tortilla, then it’s filled with beans, lettuce, salsa, cheese and sour cream. The Fish Taco uses the Freshest Island Fish grilled or dipped in beer batter, fried to golden brown and filled with the works. All fish is caught by local fisherman. The Fat Jack is a 10 inch flour tortilla wrapped around beans, cheese, and beef, deep fried, then topped with lettuce, salsa, cheese, and sour cream.

If your heading north to Hanalei, then Tropical Taco is a must stop for lunch or dinner.  Located just south of town about 1.2 miles from the old Hanalei bridge. Look for the sign.

As a kid I remember my Dad taking me on part of the Kalalau Trail,  located along the Napali Coast on the island of Kauai.  I remembered the trail being super high cliffs with a single narrow trail in some places. The wind felt like it could blow me off the trail into the ocean, and jagged lava rocks below. Many years later I found out it was not my imagination; but this is a tough hike.  The cliffs a hundreds of feet directly above the ocean and rocks in some areas. Hiking the Kalalau trail should be a considered a tough hike, and for the experienced hiker.

You need to be in good shape to make this hike and take plenty of fresh water. Extreme cliffs are throughout the entire 11 mile hike, and a one-day round trip day hike is not recommended.  Plan on camping on the beach at Kalalau On parts of the trail the streams run over the trail, and can become  muddy.  Strong currents and flash flooding that can occur at river crossings. Dangerous shorebreak and riptides at Hanakapi`ai and Kalalau beaches.  Shorebreak can be head high or higher at times on these beaches.

The Napali Coast and the Kalalau Trail has to be one of the most beautiful places in the world. Water runs down the steep green fern covered mountain sides.  There are views for miles of both the blue pacific ocean and the lush covered cliffs of the Napali Coast.  The trail head begins at Ke’ee Beach, located in Ha’ena State Park. The trailhead starts where the road ends, then continues in and around several valleys and cliffs ending at Kalalau Beach.

Information regarding permits from Hawaii State Parks.

Permits Required: Obtain all permits from the Honolulu or Lihu’e State Parks office. Camping fees for Na Pali Coast are $10.00 per person per night. A maximum stay of 5 nights is allowed in Na Pali Coast State Park. Within the 5-night maximum, no 2 consecutive nights are allowed at Hanakoa.

Day-use hiking permits are required when continuing beyond Hanakapi’ai valley, even if overnight camping is not planned. Permits can be obtained from the State Parks office in Lihue.

Facilities: The authorized camping areas along the trail do not have tables or drinking water. Composting toilets are available at Hanakapi’ai, Hanakoa, and Kalalau. All camping areas are located on shaded terraces near streams.

Driving Directions: The trail begins in Ha’ena State Park at the northwest end of Kuhio Highway (Route 56) about 41 miles (a 1 1/2-hour drive) from Lihu’e Airport. Leaving vehicles overnight at the trailhead is not recommended.

Go to the beach! Kauai has more than 50 miles of gorgeous white sand beaches to choose from – more beach per mile than any other island in Hawaii! Altogether, 43 white sand beaches beckon to wile away the day. Kauai’s beaches are destinations to be explored and  discovered.

Historical Kauai – There are many places to visit, from Grove Farm in Lihue.  The Grove Farm is one of Hawaii’s earliest sugar plantations, and offers a museum display of Kauai’s heritage.

Waioli Mission in Hanalei is where the Wilcox family, one of Kauai’s most influential families, moved to the island in the 1800s. This historic New England-style home was shipped in pieces from Boston around Cape Horn and today stands as a showcase of koa wood furniture and other artifacts from that era.

Garden Isle Waterfalls. Kauai’s waterfalls are a year-round display of nature’s ability to keep the Garden Isle green and vibrant. In Lihue, one can drive right up to picturesque Wailua Falls. Other falls include Hanakapi’ai Falls, Kalihiwai Falls, Kapa’a Stream Falls, Kipu Falls, ‘Opeaka’a Falls and there are many more.

Kayak – Rent a kayak and leisurely paddle along one of the gentle rivers bordered by lush, tropical foliage. Or, journey by riverboat up the Wailua River to the famous Fern Grotto. In this beautiful, jungle-like setting, a natural amphitheater has been formed creating remarkable acoustics.

Explore the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific.” Waimea Canyon is a sightseer’s paradise – a mile wide, 10 miles long and more than 3,500-feet deep. Take in the stunning views from the lookouts or hike into the crater. The Kalalau Lookout is especially memorable with an unforgettable view of the once cultivated valley that descends 4,000-feet to the Pacific blue. After sightseeing, enjoy a picnic lunch at the top of the crater in Kokee State Park.

Take a Kauai Helicopter Tour. Fly above the vast scenic terrain of Kauai’s lush valleys and mountains. These helicopters have floor to ceiling windows to provide the best views.  Air-conditioned cabins, 2-way intercom system with the pilot, and noise canceling headsets. Some of the sights you will see on a Kauai helicopter tour include. Kipu Kai and the Tunnel of Trees, Hanapepe Valley and Manawaiopuna Falls, Olokele Canyon,  Waimea Canyon (known as  the Grand Canyon of the Pacific), Napali Coast seaside cliffs and valleys, sandy beaches, Hanalei Valley, Mt. Waialeale (the wettest place on earth) and Wailua Falls.  Some of the tours even include flying into the center of the dormant crater with 5000 ft. walls and waterfalls surrounding you. A once in a lifetime adventure.

Information for planning your vacation to Hanalei Bay, Kauai.  Hanalei Bay is one of the most scenic areas on the island of Kauai.  Hanalei Bay is located on the North end of the island which is the wet side of Kauai, and more lush.  The islands climate is pleasant, the scenery is postcard perfect and the tropical nature is second to none.  There is a wide variety of outdoor activities to do here on the island.  Kauai has 43  beautiful white sand beaches, and Hanalei Bay is known for walking, sight seeing, golf, surfing, swimming, diving, sailing, fishing, boating, kayaking and just relaxing on the beach. The reefs around the North Shore are known for their snorkeling. Be sure to bring a good snorkel mask for snorkeling vacations.

Hanalei has many types of accommodations to suit everyones taste and pocket book.  The Hanalei Bay Resort offers condo rentals with ocean and mountain views.  Rooms at the resort range from one bedrooms to three bedrooms and a loft.  Most of the condos have full kitchens, which is helpful for the budget minded traveler.  Just down to road is the

Westin Villas Princeville pool

Westin Princeville Ocean Resort Villas, which are a bit more upscale in taste.  The Westin Princeville Ocean Resort Villas rests on a cliff on Kauai’s breathtakingly beautiful North Shore. Suspended high above the crystal clear waters of the Pacific, the resort is set against the majestic mountains of Namolokama and Makana, and is just a few miles from Hanalei Bay and the world-famous Napali Coast.

Hanalei Bay beachfront rental property

If you prefer privacy of a private residence,  rental homes are available around the entire Hanalei Bay and Princeville area.  A river front cottage can be found for around $850. u.s. per week up to a 4000 square foot house for around $3200. U.S. per week.  Each one of these rental properties is unique and charming in its own way.  Read details regarding location views and other details before buying.  Typing the address into Google maps has always helped me make a decision before renting a private home.  Hanalei North Shore Properties can help you further in this area, their direct number is 1 (800) 488-3336, or local (808) 826-9622.

If your staying in the area for more than a week, a condo (with a kitchen) or rental property is the way to go in my opinion.  When you consider eating out three meals per day this adds up quick for a family.  A location with a kitchen allows you to do bit a grocery shopping and save big on your food bill while on vacation.  Most of the rental properties include frigs, stoves, ovens, microwaves and plates, forks, knifes, spoons, etc.  Usually almost everything you would be able to find in your  home kitchen.