Kauai Attractions
The island of Kauai is one of the greenest and lushest in the state of Hawaii, popular among outdoor enthusiasts and people looking for remote and picture-perfect tropical beaches. Most people who visit Kauai stay either in the Poipu, Lihue or Kapaa areas.
Kauai attractions range from an amazing array of natural sights like waterfalls, rainforests, rivers, white-sand beaches, steep sea cliffs, hidden caves and even a canyon, to man-made attractions such as museums and temples. Kauai sightseeing never gets boring, especially if you enjoy hiking and exploring tropical surroundings and nature. Below is a list of some of the best things to do on Kauai.
Fern Grotto
Fern Grotto, a fern-fringed lava cave on Wailua River, was once an exclusive destination for Hawaiian royalty. Today, music is often times played in it because of the amazing acoustics of the cave.
Kalalau Trail
The Kalalau Trail is the most popular hike on Kauai. The 11-mile (18 km) trail leads along the majestic Na Pali Coast, which is considered by many to be one of the most beautiful coastlines in the world.
Kauai Coffee Company
The Kauai Coffee Company is a great place to visit if you like coffee. Here you can taste a variety of estate-grown coffees for free and do a self-guided walking tour through their garden.
Kilauea Lighthouse
Located on Kauai's north shore, the Kilauea Lighthouse stands at the northernmost point of the eight main Hawaiian Islands. The area is now part a wildlife refuge and a great place for bird-watching.
Koke'e State Park
With its 19 trails leading through scenic landscapes, Kokee State Park is a hiker's and explorer's paradise. The park's main attractions are the native plants, birds and beautiful views.
Mount Wai'ale'ale
Taking sunny pictures of Mount Wai'ale'ale proves to be difficult. In fact, it is one of the wettest locations on Earth, receiving about 450 inches (11,430 mm) of rain each year.
Na Pali Coast State Park
This timeless stretch of coastline is one of the most popular and beloved natural attractions on Kauai. The views are simply spectacular, with dramatic sea cliffs towering above crystal clear waters.
Russian Fort Elizabeth State Historical Park
The only site with remains of a Russian fort in Hawaii, the Russian Fort Elizabeth State Historical Park sits on the eastern bank of the mouth of the Waimea River. The fort originally had walls 20 feet (6 m) high.
Spouting Horn
One of Kauai's natural wonders, this blowhole can shoot water up to 50 feet (15 m) into the air when waves crash into it. The best time to see this natural phenomenon is during high tide and high surf.
Wailua River
This is the only navigable river in the entire state of Hawaii. Two main waterfalls plus the rains from Mount Waialeale, the wettest location on Earth, help feed the river. Rent a kayak or do a boat tour to explore it.
Waimea Canyon State Park
This amazing chasm has already made a big impression on author Mark Twain, who called it the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific.” It is one of Kauai's most outstanding natural features.
