What's There to Do in Kauai???
May 17th, 2014, 07:12 AM
#1
Original Poster
What's There to Do in Kauai???
As some of you know, in August I’ll be marrying my partner of 20 years in an intimate ceremony on the shores of Hanalei Bay. We’ll be hosting twelve family members and friends in four North Shore condos – three at Orchid Point (one 3-bedroom and (2) two-bedrooms), and one 2-bedroom unit next door at Sealodge. We’ll have a little dinner reception at the Westin Hotel.
Everyone will stay at least 8 days, but they’ll arrive at different times—some arriving ten days before the wedding, and leaving right afterwards—others arriving right before the wedding and staying for a week afterwards. Only one of our guests has ever visited Kauai, so we’ve decided to rent minivans and provide optional guided tours for those who want to see our favorite places.
I thought these might help others with their planning.
TOUR #1: Waterfalls, Coffee, and Waimea Canyon
(8 AM departure)
• The early start is so we can stop at Kountry Kitchen in Kapa’a for breakfast. Portions are huge & the fruit salads are wonderful. But the star attraction here is the pancakes. My fave is a combo of banana & macadamia nuts. One pancake is my limit—they’re that big.
• Kauai Coffee plantation for tasting and a quick walking tour of the plantation (Great gift shop!!!)
• Waimea Canyon/Kokee State Park—“the Grand Canyon of the Pacific” (the lookouts are easily accessed)
• From Koke’e Park you’ll see the spectacular Kalalau Lookout
-- Those who wish can hike the spectacular “Canyon Trail.” The 90-minute hike is rated “moderate” (which means it’s not flat, and includes a few slightly steep spots, but it’s no “difficult.” It goes along the rim of the canyon and ends with breathtaking views.
-- Those not wanting to hike can sit and wait at the lodge. (Sneakers are necessary for this hike—no flip-flops for the hikers.)
• We’ll stop for dinner on the way back—Hamura’s Saimin or the Shrimp Station. This will be a long, full day.
TOUR #2: LUMAHAI and KE’E BEACH
You’ll cross seven one-lane bridges and see some of Kauai’s most lush scenery. The first stop will be Lumahai Beach—where Mitzi Gaynor washed that man right out of her hair in the movie “South Pacific.” This is a perfect spot for swimming or sitting under a shady palm tree.
The next stop will be Ke’e Beach. This is literally the end of the road—it’s as far as you can travel by car. A five-minute walk along the surf at Ke’e will afford magnificent views of the Napali cliffs. The snorkeling in summer is typically quite good here, as is the swimming.
Ke’e Beach is the start of the world-famous Kalalau Trail. The trail is extremely demanding and not recommended for novice hikers. Those who wish to can hike the first mile, which will bring you to spectacular views. It will take close to an hour—and involves climbing over boulders and large tree limbs. (If you want to do the hike to the beach it will take all day. That would be an “on-your-own” activity.)
Tour #3: Hindu Temple and Optional Kuilau Trail Hike
The Hindu Temple and its setting are stunning. It is being meticulously hand-carved using only techniques that would have been available in ancient times, and it’s almost finished. Tours are offered once a week—typically Wednesday mornings at 9—but that will have to be confirmed. I’LL NEED TO KNOW AT LEAST TWO WEEKS IN ADVANCE IF YOU WANT TO DO THIS.
Note: some basic information about Hinduism will be provided, but there’s no proselytizing. Donations are accepted, but there’s no pressure to contribute.
The Kuilaui Trail (not to be confused with the much-more-demanding Kalalau Trail) is rated “moderate difficulty.” It has a few somewhat steep areas—but you are rewarded with spectacular views of lush, verdant mountains and valleys.
Tour #4: Waterfalls and Menehune Fishpond Overlook
Note: This tour requires little or no walking
• Opeaka’a Falls and the ancient sacred site across the road, overlooking Wailua River
• Wailua Falls (featured on the opening of the TV show “Fantasy Island”)
• Menehune Fishpond (beautiful views of a pond built in a stunning setting by ancient Hawaiians)
• Anini Lighthouse and bird sanctuary
Tour #5 Shopping Trip
You’ll stop to browse the shops in quaint Kapa’a then continue on to the best shopping on island: Walmart & Costco!!! They have the same souvenirs, T-shirts, aloha shirts, coffees, candies, etc. as everywhere else—but at much better prices.
SUGGESTIONS FOR ACTIVITIES TO DO ON YOUR OWN
Take a boat to see the magnificent Napali Coast (HIGHLY RECOMMENDED)
Captain Sundown
(no snorkeling, 3 hours)
https://www.captainsundown.com/3-hr-sunset-sail/
(with snorkeling, 6 hours)
https://www.captainsundown.com/6-hr-snorkel-sail/
Napali Tours
(with snorkeling, 3 – 4 hours):
http://www.napalitours.com/adventure...rkel-adventure
or sightseeing at sunset (no snorkeling, 2 hours):
http://www.napalitours.com/adventure...a-pali-sunset- tours
Napali Catamaran
(tour only)
http://www.napalicatamaran.com/tour/
(Note: depending on ocean conditions this is usually more of an “adventure” than a relaxing sail. You WILL get wet. You’ll see other boat tours advertised—but these are the only ones that leave from the North Shore. The others are more than an hour drive each way. ADVANCE RESERVATIONS ARE MANDATORY. They always sell out. FYI, I went with Captain Sundown and they were great.)
Rent a bike in Kapa’a and ride the path that passes Kealia Beach
Take a helicopter ride
Go to the Smith Family Luau (you can go for the dinner & show—or just the show—but reservations are a must) www.smithskauai.com/luau.html
Zipline
Horseback Riding
Kayak the Wailua River to Secret Falls – where you can swim beneath a waterfall.
Kayak (or stand on a surfboard) to explore the Hanalei River into the bay
Cruise the Wailua River to the Fern Grotto
This is a pleasant, relaxing trip with live traditional music and hula. The fern grotto was damaged in a storm and is slowly growing back. It’s not spectacular, but the point of this excursion is a laid-back relaxing 80-minute boat ride.
http://www.smithskauai.com/fern_grotto.html
Kauai Museum – for those interested in the island’s history
Farmer’s Markets (fun to browse & buy produce sold from the back of the farmers’ trucks) http://realkauai.com/FarmersMarkets/
I especially like Saturday morning in Hanalei and Thursday morning in Kilauea, and Saturday (9:30-1PM) at Kauai Community College (lots of crafts and prepared food, in addition to produce) http://www.kauaicommunitymarket.org
And …
• Watch the sunset at Bali Hai and Hanalei Bay
• Tour Rum Factory
• Golf – or Putt Putt Golf
• The Grove Homestead (http://grovefarm.org) 2-hour guided tours (M, W, Th @ 10am & 1pm) the turn-of-the-centure home of a sugar plantation owner; learn about Kauai history
• Kauai Museum
• Nani Kai Botanic/Sculpture Garden
• Limahuli Botanic Gardens (North Shore)
• Allerton Gardens (South Shore)
• Check out the historic info @ the gazebo at St. Regis Hotel (great views, too)
Views/Scenic Overlooks:
• Spouting Horn
• Menehune Fish Ponds
• Hanalei Overlook
Favorite North Shore Beaches:
• Haena
• Tunnels (Makua)
• Lumahai
• Ke’e
• Hanalei Bay
• Anini
• Kealia
Everyone will stay at least 8 days, but they’ll arrive at different times—some arriving ten days before the wedding, and leaving right afterwards—others arriving right before the wedding and staying for a week afterwards. Only one of our guests has ever visited Kauai, so we’ve decided to rent minivans and provide optional guided tours for those who want to see our favorite places.
I thought these might help others with their planning.
TOUR #1: Waterfalls, Coffee, and Waimea Canyon
(8 AM departure)
• The early start is so we can stop at Kountry Kitchen in Kapa’a for breakfast. Portions are huge & the fruit salads are wonderful. But the star attraction here is the pancakes. My fave is a combo of banana & macadamia nuts. One pancake is my limit—they’re that big.
• Kauai Coffee plantation for tasting and a quick walking tour of the plantation (Great gift shop!!!)
• Waimea Canyon/Kokee State Park—“the Grand Canyon of the Pacific” (the lookouts are easily accessed)
• From Koke’e Park you’ll see the spectacular Kalalau Lookout
-- Those who wish can hike the spectacular “Canyon Trail.” The 90-minute hike is rated “moderate” (which means it’s not flat, and includes a few slightly steep spots, but it’s no “difficult.” It goes along the rim of the canyon and ends with breathtaking views.
-- Those not wanting to hike can sit and wait at the lodge. (Sneakers are necessary for this hike—no flip-flops for the hikers.)
• We’ll stop for dinner on the way back—Hamura’s Saimin or the Shrimp Station. This will be a long, full day.
TOUR #2: LUMAHAI and KE’E BEACH
You’ll cross seven one-lane bridges and see some of Kauai’s most lush scenery. The first stop will be Lumahai Beach—where Mitzi Gaynor washed that man right out of her hair in the movie “South Pacific.” This is a perfect spot for swimming or sitting under a shady palm tree.
The next stop will be Ke’e Beach. This is literally the end of the road—it’s as far as you can travel by car. A five-minute walk along the surf at Ke’e will afford magnificent views of the Napali cliffs. The snorkeling in summer is typically quite good here, as is the swimming.
Ke’e Beach is the start of the world-famous Kalalau Trail. The trail is extremely demanding and not recommended for novice hikers. Those who wish to can hike the first mile, which will bring you to spectacular views. It will take close to an hour—and involves climbing over boulders and large tree limbs. (If you want to do the hike to the beach it will take all day. That would be an “on-your-own” activity.)
Tour #3: Hindu Temple and Optional Kuilau Trail Hike
The Hindu Temple and its setting are stunning. It is being meticulously hand-carved using only techniques that would have been available in ancient times, and it’s almost finished. Tours are offered once a week—typically Wednesday mornings at 9—but that will have to be confirmed. I’LL NEED TO KNOW AT LEAST TWO WEEKS IN ADVANCE IF YOU WANT TO DO THIS.
Note: some basic information about Hinduism will be provided, but there’s no proselytizing. Donations are accepted, but there’s no pressure to contribute.
The Kuilaui Trail (not to be confused with the much-more-demanding Kalalau Trail) is rated “moderate difficulty.” It has a few somewhat steep areas—but you are rewarded with spectacular views of lush, verdant mountains and valleys.
Tour #4: Waterfalls and Menehune Fishpond Overlook
Note: This tour requires little or no walking
• Opeaka’a Falls and the ancient sacred site across the road, overlooking Wailua River
• Wailua Falls (featured on the opening of the TV show “Fantasy Island”)
• Menehune Fishpond (beautiful views of a pond built in a stunning setting by ancient Hawaiians)
• Anini Lighthouse and bird sanctuary
Tour #5 Shopping Trip
You’ll stop to browse the shops in quaint Kapa’a then continue on to the best shopping on island: Walmart & Costco!!! They have the same souvenirs, T-shirts, aloha shirts, coffees, candies, etc. as everywhere else—but at much better prices.
SUGGESTIONS FOR ACTIVITIES TO DO ON YOUR OWN
Take a boat to see the magnificent Napali Coast (HIGHLY RECOMMENDED)
Captain Sundown
(no snorkeling, 3 hours)
https://www.captainsundown.com/3-hr-sunset-sail/
(with snorkeling, 6 hours)
https://www.captainsundown.com/6-hr-snorkel-sail/
Napali Tours
(with snorkeling, 3 – 4 hours):
http://www.napalitours.com/adventure...rkel-adventure
or sightseeing at sunset (no snorkeling, 2 hours):
http://www.napalitours.com/adventure...a-pali-sunset- tours
Napali Catamaran
(tour only)
http://www.napalicatamaran.com/tour/
(Note: depending on ocean conditions this is usually more of an “adventure” than a relaxing sail. You WILL get wet. You’ll see other boat tours advertised—but these are the only ones that leave from the North Shore. The others are more than an hour drive each way. ADVANCE RESERVATIONS ARE MANDATORY. They always sell out. FYI, I went with Captain Sundown and they were great.)
Rent a bike in Kapa’a and ride the path that passes Kealia Beach
Take a helicopter ride
Go to the Smith Family Luau (you can go for the dinner & show—or just the show—but reservations are a must) www.smithskauai.com/luau.html
Zipline
Horseback Riding
Kayak the Wailua River to Secret Falls – where you can swim beneath a waterfall.
Kayak (or stand on a surfboard) to explore the Hanalei River into the bay
Cruise the Wailua River to the Fern Grotto
This is a pleasant, relaxing trip with live traditional music and hula. The fern grotto was damaged in a storm and is slowly growing back. It’s not spectacular, but the point of this excursion is a laid-back relaxing 80-minute boat ride.
http://www.smithskauai.com/fern_grotto.html
Kauai Museum – for those interested in the island’s history
Farmer’s Markets (fun to browse & buy produce sold from the back of the farmers’ trucks) http://realkauai.com/FarmersMarkets/
I especially like Saturday morning in Hanalei and Thursday morning in Kilauea, and Saturday (9:30-1PM) at Kauai Community College (lots of crafts and prepared food, in addition to produce) http://www.kauaicommunitymarket.org
And …
• Watch the sunset at Bali Hai and Hanalei Bay
• Tour Rum Factory
• Golf – or Putt Putt Golf
• The Grove Homestead (http://grovefarm.org) 2-hour guided tours (M, W, Th @ 10am & 1pm) the turn-of-the-centure home of a sugar plantation owner; learn about Kauai history
• Kauai Museum
• Nani Kai Botanic/Sculpture Garden
• Limahuli Botanic Gardens (North Shore)
• Allerton Gardens (South Shore)
• Check out the historic info @ the gazebo at St. Regis Hotel (great views, too)
Views/Scenic Overlooks:
• Spouting Horn
• Menehune Fish Ponds
• Hanalei Overlook
Favorite North Shore Beaches:
• Haena
• Tunnels (Makua)
• Lumahai
• Ke’e
• Hanalei Bay
• Anini
• Kealia
Thanks Sondgoc.
May 17th, 2014, 11:12 AM
#3
Original Poster
Thanks, Tom.
FYI, I left off Maha'ulepu (which is one of my favorite places) and Polihale -- because we can't do them with the rental minivans because of the poor conditions of the roads.
FYI, I left off Maha'ulepu (which is one of my favorite places) and Polihale -- because we can't do them with the rental minivans because of the poor conditions of the roads.
May 17th, 2014, 03:55 PM
#5
Original Poster
Thanks, rncheryl. I AM getting excited!!!
I included the helicopter tour under "things to do on your own." (I'm not paying for twelve helicopter rides!!!) But I'll tell anyone who's interested to check out Jack Harter. Thanks.
I'm pushing for people to do a Napali boat ride, but didn't mention Holo Holo because it leaves from the south shore--and we'll be north. I had a great time with Captain Andy.
FYI, the age group will range from my twenty-something nieces and nephews to my soon-to-be 87-year old mother-in-law.
I included the helicopter tour under "things to do on your own." (I'm not paying for twelve helicopter rides!!!) But I'll tell anyone who's interested to check out Jack Harter. Thanks.
I'm pushing for people to do a Napali boat ride, but didn't mention Holo Holo because it leaves from the south shore--and we'll be north. I had a great time with Captain Andy.
FYI, the age group will range from my twenty-something nieces and nephews to my soon-to-be 87-year old mother-in-law.
May 18th, 2014, 11:19 AM
#6
Join Date: Sep 2005
Posts: 3,287
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
Well Holo Holo now had a rigid hull inflatable that leaves from the North Shore, read about in on TA, gets good reviews.
Also I know you are staying north but Captain Andy's has two new boats that are very spacious and serve hot food instead of the make your own sandwich deal. The Southern Star and his new Northern Star. On the SS dinner cruise they serve steak and shrimp, on the morning cruise burgers and maybe chicken.
Also I know you are staying north but Captain Andy's has two new boats that are very spacious and serve hot food instead of the make your own sandwich deal. The Southern Star and his new Northern Star. On the SS dinner cruise they serve steak and shrimp, on the morning cruise burgers and maybe chicken.
May 19th, 2014, 11:19 AM
#8
Original Poster
I partly did this post because I still know people who choose Maui over Kauai because "there's nothing to do there!"
jamie99 -- Thanks for the info!
and sf7307 -- Thanks for the congrats!!!
Gosh, when I did the Napali cruises (twice) they were SO rocky -- I can't imagine eating dinner! Maybe I just hit some rough seas.
jamie99 -- Thanks for the info!
and sf7307 -- Thanks for the congrats!!!
Gosh, when I did the Napali cruises (twice) they were SO rocky -- I can't imagine eating dinner! Maybe I just hit some rough seas.
May 19th, 2014, 12:39 PM
#9
Join Date: May 2003
Posts: 11,326
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
Congratulations SongDoc! We are going to Kauai at Thanksgiving and I now have a list of more things to do than we can fit in - guess that leaves things to do for the next time, right?
I hope you'll do a report of the wedding - sounds like such a fun event! I am very happy for you!
I hope you'll do a report of the wedding - sounds like such a fun event! I am very happy for you!
May 19th, 2014, 01:40 PM
#10
Join Date: Nov 2011
Posts: 11,375
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
Went out with Captan Andy's maybe 7? years ago - on the Trimaran - and it was great. We went diving but the snorkeling was just as good really. Had multiple turtle sightings (good look in Hawaii) and dolphins/porpises swimming along with the boat.
May 19th, 2014, 10:46 PM
#13
Join Date: Jun 2003
Posts: 2,082
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
on our last trip to Kauai we did the Maha'ulepu Heritage trail. We did NOT run into any bad roads. We just drove past the golf course at the hyatt and parked in a lot. Where are the bad roads that I have heard/read about? I also want to thank you for your wonderful hints on things to see and do on Kauai our favorite island. I love your reports. Best wishes....
May 21st, 2014, 03:11 PM
#14
Original Poster
Thanks, everyone, for the nice wishes. I truly never thought I would live to see the day when I would I be allowed to marry.
Shar -- I appreciate the kind words! The way you accessed Maha'ulepu requires (I'm guessing) a 5 - 6 mile walk. Most people continue on the dirt road past the Grand Hyatt, navigate the horrendous potholes, and park in one of the two parking lots that allow close, easy access to the cliffs. It's just a few steps from the parking lots to the beach where they can set up chairs and coolers, etc. The most dramatic part of the walk -- to the end of the cliffs -- is only around a one-mile walk from the parking lots I'm referencing. But I'm really glad you reminded me that it is possible to get those views -- without the potholes--if you're willing to walk that far. Unfortunately, 5 - 6 miles is too far to walk for most of my guests.
I love seeing turtles in the ocean! Last time I was a Maha'ulepu I saw a monk seal swimming. I've seen them quite a few times lounging on the beach--but this was the first time I saw one in the water!
Shar -- I appreciate the kind words! The way you accessed Maha'ulepu requires (I'm guessing) a 5 - 6 mile walk. Most people continue on the dirt road past the Grand Hyatt, navigate the horrendous potholes, and park in one of the two parking lots that allow close, easy access to the cliffs. It's just a few steps from the parking lots to the beach where they can set up chairs and coolers, etc. The most dramatic part of the walk -- to the end of the cliffs -- is only around a one-mile walk from the parking lots I'm referencing. But I'm really glad you reminded me that it is possible to get those views -- without the potholes--if you're willing to walk that far. Unfortunately, 5 - 6 miles is too far to walk for most of my guests.
I love seeing turtles in the ocean! Last time I was a Maha'ulepu I saw a monk seal swimming. I've seen them quite a few times lounging on the beach--but this was the first time I saw one in the water!
Jun 4th, 2014, 06:37 AM
#17
Join Date: Oct 2004
Posts: 87
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
So awesome of you to put this list together, such aloha spirit! I have not been on these boards for quite some time but I have come back to plan for August as well (although we will be on the Big Island) Congratulations on your up coming wedding! After reading all your contributions and trip reports over the years it is so wonderful to hear you are tying the knot on Kauai. We were married at A-bay in Waikoloa in 1994 so I can tell you first hand there is nothing like a wedding ceremony in Hawaii.
Ho'omaika'i 'Ana
Ho'omaika'i 'Ana
