The Green Garden Isle

With the nickname “Garden Isle” it is probably no surprise that this particular island is a green sight punctuated with lush tropical rainforests, stunning mountain views, and breathtaking beaches. Visitors will enjoy the untouched Na Pali Coast cliffs as well as other national treasures. Kauai is Hawaii’s oldest island thought to have been created via volcanic eruption some 10 million years ago. Olokele Volcano once stood more than 10,000 feet above sea level, but the years and water have eroded her down to nearly half that. Her two remaining peeks, Wai’ale’ale and Kawaikini, are now sinking into what is called the Alaka’I Swamp. The age has had a remarkable geographic anomaly of breaking down the sand on the 110-miles of coastline – more than any other island.

Kauai Must See

Waimea Canyon is a must do for every visitor. Waimea is Hawaii’s equivalent of the Grand Canyon with 3,000 clifs and lush foliage. Hikers will find waterfalls spread throughout the canyon. Regardless of your desire to hike, visitors of all abilities will be able to venture and see some truly spectacular scenary. Kalalau Valley and Pu’u O Kila Lookout are accessible right off Highway 550. Opaeka’a Falls is another must visit. This area is one of the wettest areas on earth and as a result, is home to cascading waterfalls along the mountainsides.

Kauai Activities

Princeville offers the beaches of Hanalei Bay, Po’ipu, and Hanapepe where Hollywood’s stars flock to own vacation homes and movies opt to shoot. In addition to all the regular beach and water sports, Princeville is home to Princeville Ranch Adventures, a family owned 2,500 acre ranch located on the North Shore. Princeville Ranch offers ziplining, 4x4 off-roading, horseback riding, hiking and kayaking adventures. Eco enthusiasts may enjoy the Skyline Poipu tour. Poipu offers an adventure zipline taking guests over 8 (or 5 for the family fun tour) lines over breathtaking mountain, ocean and valley backdrops. The Kokee Natural History Museum offers visitors a unique look into Kauai’s wilderness parks, native birds and plants. Speaking of native wildlife and natural flora, guests of our Kauai villas can experience the tranquility of the Green Garden Isle on botanical tours at the National Tropical Botanical Garden. This is a network of gardens and preserves throughout the island that offer a lush tropical escape to enjoy.

Kauai Golf

Kauai is home to nine golf courses of varying levels and desires. The North Shore (Princeville) offers the Makai Golf Club designed by Jack Nicklaus and Robert Trent Jones. This course is frequented by PGA golfers. Other options include the Club at Kukuiula (Koloa), Hokuala Kauai (Lihue), Kauai Lagoons (Lihue), Kiahuna (Koloa), Poipu Bay (Koloa), and Wailua (Lihue).

When to Go

Kauai hosts several large events throughout the year: Waimea Town Celebration (February), Prince Albert Music Festival (June), Kauai Mokihana Festival (September), and Koke’e Museum’s Emalani Festival (October). The best times to visit are mid-March – mid-July and September – November. December – March is the rainy season, so expect to get during this time of year.

Travel Tips

• Average temperature ranges between 70°-80°F year-round.
• Hawaii observes Hawaii Standard Time (5 hours behind Eastern Standard).
• Area code for Hawaii is 808.
• The main airport is Lihue Airport, which services non-stop service by a few carriers. Honolulu International (on the island of Oahu) is also an option with a short 25-minute flight to Kauai.
• It is best to rent a car on Kauai to give you flexibility for all your adventures off your Kauai vacation rental property.