One of Hawaii’s tropical islands, Kauai is the perfect place to relax and explore. It’s a pristine paradise home to some of the best beaches in the Pacific as well as wild wilderness. In fact, you’ve probably seen Kauai before on the big screen in films like Jurassic Park and Raiders of the Lost Ark.
Kauai isn’t one of the biggest islands in Hawaii at only fifty miles, but it has something for every type of traveler. If you’re planning a visit to this tropical paradise, make sure you do your planning. While it’s wonderful year-round, you don’t want to find the island filled with tourists on your trip. If you’re looking for a luxurious retreat, this guide will share just how to do it on Kauai.
When to Visit
First, let’s discuss the best time to visit Kauai. Like all of Hawaii, the weather is pretty consistent all year round. You can expect it to be pretty warm and humid with temperatures in the 70s and 80s every day. However, you’ll want to avoid the peak tourism season. This season starts during the winter holiday and continues through March, so choose a better time if you can. The best time of year is in the spring or the fall when there are significantly fewer crowds.
Where to Stay
When it comes to accommodation, you have a lot of options. From a luxurious resort on Kauai to eco-lodges, you’ll be able to call your own slice of paradise home for the duration of your getaway. However, you will want to consider what part of the island you want to stay on. Though relatively small, the different areas of the island have unique features and characteristics.
The good news is there are beaches just about everywhere on Kauai. The south side of the island has the most resorts and rental properties, and it also has some of the best beaches and dining. The north shore is home to Hanalei Bay and the Na Pali Coast, but it’s also prone to rain. The north shore is full of secluded, private beaches.
The east coast of the island is also nicknamed “Coconut Coast.” This is where the more affordable accommodations are, and it’s also a good base for seeing the rest of the island. Finally, the west coast is close to Waimea Canyon State Parks, which means it’s ideal for hikers and outdoor adventurers.
Exploring the Island
There are three ways to explore Kauai: by sea, by air, and by land. If you have the time, it’s best to do all three. If not, start by seeing the island by air. You can charter a helicopter ride to see all the sights of the island. These include wonders like sea cliffs, Mountain Waialeale, and waterfalls. Make your reservation for a helicopter tour in advance, if possible, and leave room in your schedule in case any bad weather gets in the way.
It’s also worth exploring the island by sea. Because Kauai has some of the most amazing sea cliffs in the world, you’ll want to take them in from the water. If you can visit between November and April, you might even catch a glimpse of the many humpback whales that spend their winters in Hawaii. Many sailboats leave daily from Port Allen Harbor which is located on the south shore. If you’re feeling adventurous, consider a rafting expedition along the Na Pali Coast.
Finally, the last way to see this gorgeous island is by land. While it’s impossible to fit the entire island into a single trip, you can try to make the most of the time you do have. One of the most famous must-dos is the Waimea Canyon. From there, you’ll want to tour more of Koke’s State Park. Many of the best sights in Hawaii are found just driving along the coast, so consider renting a car if possible.
Conclusion
No matter where you choose to stay or when you choose to visit, you’re sure to be blown away by the beauty of Kauai. There’s a reason so many magnificent films have been shot here, and it’s sure to stick with you forever.
Enjoying the luxurious beaches of Hawaii is never easier than it is in Kauai. Come to see for yourself why so many travelers from around the globe visit this breathtaking place every year. Odds are you’ll never want to leave.