Hi,

We are going to Kauai in 2 weeks, staying at the Marriott in Lihue. Husband is attending a conference and we will only have 1 day or 1 1/2 day free.

What do you recommend is a must see, considering we don't have much time to tour the island? We are travelling with a toddler so won't be doing any sports or hiking. Husband would like to snorkel, I want to see some falls (Wailua or Opaekaa??) and Waimea canyon.

Any suggestions?

For scenery on Kauai: a drive north to Ke'e Beach is a must-do, in my opinion. You can stop at both Wailua and Opaeka'a Falls along the way. If you only have time for one drive I would rate this more scenic that Waimea Canyon.

(Hint: if you are continuing on to the North Shore from Opaeka'a FAlls, go the "back way" thru Wailua which is a pretty detour through a residential neighborhood (where I used to live!) When you exit the falls turn right onto Kuamo'o Rd/580. Then right again at the Wailua Country Store (Kamalu Rd/Hwy 581). Follow 581 (sort of bearing right at all times) it will come out in the north end of congested Kapaa Town and you will be back on the main highway again and miss lots of traffic.

Lydgate Park would be fun with toddler, there is a very shallow rock-enclosed keiki pool there. Husband could snorkel in the larger enclosed pool. Across from Lydgate is Kamalani Playground, wonderful for little kids. Hidden away about 1/2 mile south of the Lydgate Park lifeguard tower is Kamalani Play Bridge, a must-see with a toddler.

Across the highway from Lydgate you could stop in the parking lot to Smiths Tropical Paradise and look at the screaming peacocks, kids love them! Take some bread to feed.

The Marriott has a kiddie pool. Also a huge grassy lawn with lounge chairs. The KAuai MArriott in Lihue is my favorite hotel on Kauai.

If you're going to see anything it has to be Kauai's north shore. Drive north and take in the sights. Possible places to stop are: Ke'e Beach (parking is tough get their early)Haena Beach (dry cave is right across the street), Hanalei (the town and beach/ pier), Anini Beach for snorkeling (this beach is very protected and the water is calm enough for you to take a dip with the little one while dad snorkels), Kilauea Lighthouse. Both the falls you mentioned are right off the road, you can hit them on your way back.

I think we'll be staying there about the same time as you -- from 7/21-28. Friends that usually stay there every year just love the place.

another vote for heading to North Shore and the great beaches and funky towns. There are several nice family beaches along the way. We love Kealia beach and Ke'e but it does get crowded early but the drive is worth it. Also a stop at the lighthouse is lovely. not open but it is a a bird sanctuary and the scenery is wonderful.