Duane Godshall

My girlfriend and I are planning a trip to Hawaii in
April and are planning to make a day trip to Kauai.
Any suggestions on what to see and what not to miss?
We are adventurous people and nothing is too off the
beaten path for us. Should we head North, South, East or West?

Melanie Decker

WOW! Kauai in a day. Once you get there, you'll want to spend a month! (It's rated the best island in Hawaii). BUT, if I had to do it in just one day-I would get a car and and cruise over to the Waimea Canyon (on the west side). The views even from your car and the overlooks will be enough. But if you're like me, you'll want to hike around to get closer. I would suggest pulling into Kokee State Park. Go into the information center and look at a trail that best suits your physical ability. We took a 4 mile trail that wasn't like any hiking I've ever done. SO hard, but well worth it. The end result was a TRILLION dollar view of the NaPali coast (the north part of the island that's not accessible by car) and the beautiful crystal blue pacific. I believe that trail was called something like Awawapuhi (?) Trail. After that, you'll be stunned for the rest of your trip. Have fun!

Jackie

We were in Kauai last week and I think you would
regret spending only one day. The previous
writer makes a good case,but let me suggest a
different itinerary for your second day! Get a car
and drive to Hanelei on the northshore(?), It is
very lush and tropical-infact there is a tropical botanical garden which is lovely. the town is
very old Hawaii and not overwhelmed with tourists.
It is wetter on this side of the island so the plant are grand.
Have fun!

Janice Nagano

I would book a helicopter flight if I were you. When we were there last May, we got a terrific view of most of the island via whirlybird! The waterfalls were raging, and we wouldn't have been able to see them except for our birds eye view.

We bought a video of our actual trip and have relived the incredible scenery many times. Make sure that the company you book with offers a video of your actual flight as opposed to a generic video of a helicopter flight (which some do). We had a good time with Safari Helicopters. Ask to sit in the front if you can.

randy

hello!
i agree with all the pre-comments,its a wonderful island.but heres a tip:if you rent a car,be aware of the west side of the island,because there is a military base over there.and if you are getting lost in a no and road,you can get inside by an accident.