1. The best guidebook for descriptions, pictures and great ideas on what to do and where to stay is the Ultimate Kaua'i blue guidebook – can be found at any bookstores and libraries. Check out their website also at wizardpub.com.2. See the Na Pali Coast, either by boat or by helicopter by air the views are spectacular, but the ride is shorter than by boat which also stops and lets you do some snorkeling. Another way to see it is a hike along the Kalalau Trail, though long and sometimes strenuous, it's a fabulous day trip or several day trek. (See My Journey to Kalalau)
3. Explore / view the Waimea Canyon, see the beautiful Kalalau Valley View, and then take the Pihea Trail at the end of the road which goes along the valley rim - breathtaking views! Awesome scenery and views with some great hiking trails. One of the best tropical mountain and ocean views ever from Pihea Vista.
4. Visit / swim in Queen's Bath, a beautiful and fun lava rock tide pool just below the Princeville area.
5. Take a jeep ride up the back roads beyond Keahua Arboretum (west of Wailua) into the tropical jungle areas near Waialeale.
6. Visit Wailua Falls and Kipu Falls. The second has a fun rope to swing into the pool below the falls. (Note: Kipu Falls is privately owned and is now closed)
7. If you like gardens, arrange a tour of the McBryde NTBG Gardens in Lawai. Hundreds of acres of tropical beauty shared by only a few people.
8. Take a drive up the beautiful Hanalei Valley a little way.
9. Great beaches:
North Shore: Ke’e, Ha’ena, Lumahai, Hanalei Bay, Hideaways, Secret, Anini, Moloa'a, Donkey.
South Shore: Poipu, Maha’ulepu, Polihale.
10. Rent a car, unless your idea of seeing Hawaii is laying by the pool and walking on one beach. (Not a bad relaxing vacation but why come all the way to Hawaii to do what you can do anywhere?) Taxi and buses won't get you around nearly as well, and to some places, not at all. Kauai is for the nature lover - get out and see it!
11. Great pizza can be had at the Brick Oven in Kalaheo and Kapa'a.
See also:
My Favorite Island: Kaua'i
