We're leaving in two weeks and three days--yeah! I've been reading Ultimate Kauai and have done some searches here, but I'm still undecided about what activities we'll do during our 5 day stay. So far we're definitely doing a hike one day and spa/pool/relaxing one day.

I've had some interest in kayaking or snorkeling or a cruise to see the North Shore, but I'm worried that the surf might be too bad to enjoy that. Input?

What are your top two/three MUST DO activities in Kauai? We're late twenties, like to do active things but also take it easy. Not really interested in botanical gardens or bird watching or things like that.

Thanks for the help! I can't wait for this trip!

Take a drive to Ke'e Beach; located at the foot of the Kalalau Trail on the Napali Coast. Great snorkeling (ocean conditions permitting) inside the reef.

We're at the height of the winter surf season here (pardon the pun!), especially on the north shore. Come up and see the massive surf, but don't plan to snorkel.

While the east, west and north shores are usually experiencing pounding surf in the winter, the south side (Po`ipu) enjoys just 1-3 ft surf. Definitely snorkel-able. 8-)

As for must-do activities in the winter here, kayaking the rivers is fun (but not if the water is brown...google for leptosporosis, and you'll know what I'm talking about....ewwwwwwwww!), and a Na Pali cruise (if weather/surf permit). And the ATV tours at Kipu Ranch -- fun, fun, fun!

You mention you aren't into birdwatching, but I'd still recommend a visit to Kilauea Lighthouse. You'll see birds there, like you've never seen before. We're in the midst of the winter migration -- plenny nesting seabirds (albatross, frigates, etc.).

Have a _great_ visit!

"auntiemaria"---I am also heading to Kaua'i, but in March. Is the surf still usually up at that time? How about the best (day)hikes on the island? Any favorite restaurants? Thanks for any info...

I'd plan more than one day for spa/pool/beach/relax for sure! It's the number one "must do" for me while I'm there.

Too bad you're not into botanical gardens. Kaua'i has amazing gardens that are very cool. Limahuli on the north shore and Allerton on the south shore are what I consider must dos.

Take a drive up to the north shore and watch the surf come in at Hanalei Bay.

Hike the Maha'ulepu Beach area jsut east of the Hyatt on the south shore.

Take a drive up to Waimea canyon EARLY in the morning to beat the clouds. Drive to the end and then walk on the usually closed road until you get to the ultimate lookout spot in the world.

Have the lilkoi chiffon pie at Hamura's Saimin after you have devoured a bowl of the special saimin, chicken and beef skewers and deep fried wontons.

-Bill

We will be on Kauai next month and plan to do all that Bill suggests, and also a NaPali cruise (weather permitting). Bill and others, have you been to the Grove Farm Homestead? We were thinking of that in addition to Allerton Gardens.
For entertainment, thanks to advice from Auntie Maria, we are looking forward to seeing The Happy Hawaiians on Sunday PM at the Tahiti Nui, and Leilani Rivera Bond and her dancers at the Hyatt's Seaview Terrace on Saturday evening.

Just took the helicopter tour two days ago. Fantastic. The only way to see Kauai. I used Jack Harter and they were great. If you're into a real thrill ride, book the 4 passenger, no doors chopper. Scared the hell out of me for the first few minutes, then it was unbelieveable.

Also, a great (couple hour) hike is up the "Sleeping Giant." It is only 1.75 miles, but 1000 feet up. The views from top are amazing.

Enjoy.

ttt

A helicopter ride over the Napili coast.

Lucky you! I just wish we were heading back soon. My top musts are similar to others - #1 Helicopter ride - just awesome and well worth the $, #2 - Waimea Canyon - an incredible sight #3 - Ke'e Beach to watch the surf and the drive there is fabulous too #4Lighthouse and bird sanctuary on the east side of island - makes a good stop on the way to Ke'e Beach (sorry, don't know the name of the Lighthouse).

Enjoy!

Hike the NaPali coast. Our family did this about 10 years ago and it was one of the best hikes ever. We did the day hike, but you can backpack overnight. The day hike was gorgeous.