Kauai is the northwestern-most and oldest of Hawaii's major islands. Called the Garden Island, it is covered with lush greenery and tropical plants, watered regularly by abundant rainfall. As the oldest of the islands, it has been changed the most by the forces of erosion, and this has resulted in natural wonders such as Waimea Canyon and the Na Pali Coast. It is also home to more sandy beaches than any other major island in the Hawaiian chain.
In short, compared to Oahu, Maui or the Big Island, Kauai is smaller, less populated, more rural, and more laid back. That's why it's the favorite destination for many visitors to Hawaii, and for many Hawaii residents as well.
People come to Kauai primarily for one thing: the beaches with their great snorkeling, surfing, swimming and sunning. But Kauai also boasts more navigable rivers than the other Hawaiian Islands making kayaking very popular. If the surf is calm you can even combine a river run with time paddling the bays and ocean shoreline. You'll find kayak rentals near the mouth of the most popular rivers. Kauai has great hiking and mountain biking trails as well.
Go where no other boats can. Plan your kayaking vacation with our expert tips on how to choose the right type of trip and find recommended tours.
Add to your family-friendly beach list with this round-up of favorite beaches from TravelMuse.
Most popular bookmarks from Trips to Kauai
Add the TravelMuse Bookmarker to your browser and instantly add any page on the Web to your trip research.
Add the Bookmarker