I think you will have a great time on Kaua'i. If you are interested in plants, I recommend a visit to Limahuli garden, on the North shore www.ntbg.org/gardens/limahuli.php You can see native plants which they are working to conserve.

Another protected beach is Salt Pond, on the south shore.

Good choice, elfville!

That is great if that is what you are seeking. I know I saw kids in a canoe, while we were there. We did a helicopter ride it was so awesome. We went with air kauai. That was where you can see the True Kauai and all its beauty. I don't know where "odin" was, I know the one side is not lush at all and one is so pretty. I think he may have been on the drier side. We were on a cruise and that is where we docked and it was so pretty. We went to the beach, and the scenery was great. we rented a car for the day. Have fun. It is a relaxing island.