Kauai Travel Forum

Any suggestions on the "Must see and Do" in Kauai? My husband and myself are leaving on July 3rd for the vacation of our dreams. THis was a last minute trip so I haven't had much time to research the area. We love the outdoors and great food. Snorkeling,zipline,kayak,hiking, body surfing and oh yea relaxing. We will be staying at a time share in the Princeville area.
Thanks in advance for any travel tips. I have been going over a copy of Kauai Revealed and now think 1 week is only going to scrape the surface.

I agree, one week is so little time on such a beautiful island! When my wife and I went a few years ago, we also spent one week, and we will return next year, for 10 days-2 weeks.

We stayed Near Poipu Beach. If you like good food, there is a restaurant not far from Poipu called the Beach House Restaurant.It is expensive, but has great food. Also, in front of it is a wonderful and popular snorkeling spot. You can enjoy good food and snorkel all in one location! Plus, it is not far from the spouting horn.

I hope you have a wonderful time!

David

I think 1 week is plenty of time to be in Kauai is not that big of an island. Staying in Princeville area is nice. Go further west along the north coast until the road runs out and there is a decent snorkeling area right there. I haven't been hiking there but in that same area, you see many people hiking up thru the lush greenery.
I have photos & tips posted on my Kauai page. I did dine at the Beach House on the south shore and it amazing with it's open dining area and you are right at the ocean. Wonderful sunsets.
Have a great time!

We just returned from Kauai; we stayed for 10 days and I felt it wasn't enough! You're right, you only scratch the surface. You definitely want to factor in "veg" time -- plus if you're active there is plenty to see and do.

For bodysurfing, my husband really enjoyed Shipwreck Beach, in Poipu. There is a beautiful hike at the end of the beach, called the Maha'ulepu Heritage Trail, with interesting geological formations. Make sure to do the hike in late afternoon, as the cliffs look more spectacular.

Grace is probably referring to the Kalalau Trail, which is at the end of Ke'e Beach, literally the end of the road. The hike is not difficult, but start out very early (we started about 7:30 am) to secure a parking spot, plus to escape the heat of the day. The only thing that is difficult about the trail is that there are many exposed roots and very large rocks. You will also have to ford a stream as well, so bring water shoes or take your chances as the rocks are extremely slippery. You can hike until the first beach, which most people do, then after that you need a permit. If you're into backpacking, it's a really spectacular hike after the first beach and you can camp. You do get a glimpse of the Na'Pali Cliffs.

Kauai Revealed is really the only book you need. Recommended for Shave Ice: Wishing Well Shave Ice in Hanalei; as the book states, the guy runs weird hours, we found him open at 8:00 am one day. Worth the trouble. Good eats in Hanalei: Barcuda, Bubba's, Polynesia Cafe (try the traditional Hawaiian plate) and for a nice "fancy" dinner out, Nanea at the Westin, Princeville. A must-try is the Kilauea Fish Market and their Ahi Wraps. Also, try to hit the Kilauea Farmer's Market for local produce and goodies for the condo, Thursdays at 4:30 sharp (get there at 4:00 to scope out what you want to buy, as it's a frenzy when the selling starts)

In Lihue, I recommend Mark's Place for a fantastic plate lunch -- they're only open for lunch. Also, stock up at Costco if you have a membership; we found it's got the best deals on the island for food and necessities.

South island good eats: Tidepools at the Hyatt, as well as Yum Cha at the Hyatt, wonderful pan Asian food. In Kapa'a, the Olympic Cafe is awesome, as well as Over the Moon Bakery for baked goods.

For good deals on car rentals: http://www.discounthawaiicarrental.com/
I know the website looks simplistic, but we got a good deal and had no problems as well as friends of ours use it all the time -- it's usually through Budget Rent-a-Car.

You're going to have an amazing time! Please e-mail me if you have any questions.

Musts:

1. Hike the trail along the Na Pali Coast
2. Drive to Waimea Canyon, one of the world's most scenic canyons.
3. Hike out to the Kalalau Lookout in Kokee State park, for one of the best views in the world.
4. If you can swing it from a budget standpoint, do a helicopter tour of the island.