Kauai, Hawaii Must See Highlights
Waimea Canyon
This breathtaking gorge in the heart of Kauai was dubbed by Mark Twain as the Grand Canyon of the Pacific. At 3,400 feet deep and 10 miles long, it is a spectacular sight with multiple crowning rainbows and multi-hued rockes. Exposed volcanic rock and rich tropical vegetation combine to make this a dramatic sight - on you won't forget.
Wailua River
Wailua River is an 11-mile-long slowly meandering river that starts at the Wai'ale'ale Crater and is fed by several tributaries on its way to the ocean. This is the only navigable river in all of Hawaii. Several forks in the river lead to waterfalls and can be easily explored by kayak or riverboat cruise. At the mouth of the rivers are several large stones with ancient petroglyphs on them. Often, the highlight of this trip is a stop at romantic Fern Grotto.
Fern Grotto
The scenic ride up Wailua River is fascinating, but nothing can prepare you for the tropical beauty of Fern Grotto. This hauntingly beautiful cave was once reserved for Hawaiian royalty only. Lush with ferns and waterfalls, this little paradise with natural acoustics has become a favorite spot for weddings, where professional entertainers will sing traditional Hawaiian songs for the wedding ceremony.
Na Pali Coastline
Explore these towering sea cliffs by air, ocean or even on foot. Helicopter tours allow you to soar high above this world-famous coastline, while a rafting expedition will take you to hidden sea caves and spectacular waterfalls. You can also opt to go ashore for a guided hike to an ancient fishing village.
Hanalei
One of Hawaii's most beautiful beaches is here on Kauai's North Shore. Black Pot Beach is situated on the eastern tip of a two-mile stretch of sand reputed by locals to be the best beach in the islands, offering swimming, body boarding and surfing. Here, the Wailua River makes a dramatic plunge over a high cliff at Opaeka's Falls. The Hanalei Valley Lookout is one of the most photographed spots on the island.
Waterfalls
Kauai is renowned as the Garden Isle thanks to its abundant rainfall. At the center of Kauai is Mt. Wai'ale'ale, one of the most rainiest spots on earth at over 400 inches per year. This creates spectacular waterfalls and rivers, which cascade down the steep sides of this and many other extinct volcanoes. Some of the best waterfalls include the 3,400-foot Mt. Namolokama Falls, Papakolea Falls, Wailua Falla and swimming at Kipu Falls.
Kipu Ranch
This beautiful property is a paradise of tropical fern grottos, manog, guava, papaya, rose apples, breadfruit and Java plum fruit trees, as well as bamboo forests. Kipu Ranch has over 3,000 acres that extend from the Hule'ia River to the top of the Ha'upu Mountains. Guests can tour the forests, vistas, winding rivers, valleys and panoramic views on guided ATV adventures, or as passengers in a 4-wheel-drive vehicle.
Golf at Kauai Lagoons - Kiele Course
Designed by legendary golfer Jack Nicklaus, Kiele weaves its way through mango tree forests, around 40 acres of freshwater lagoons and alongside sheer ocean cliffs. This spectacular and challenging course is only five minutes away from port and cruise lines, like NCL, offer specail rates with complimentary rental clubs, a shared cart, and shuttle service to and from your ship.
Allerton Gardens
Considered one of the world's premier botannical research locations, Allerton Gardens was once a private estate. Now its spectacular landscaping and garden art is open to the public. These outdoor "rooms" were designed with rippling pools, fountains, dramatic sculptures, rare trees, plants and flowers, and stunning, sweeping views from the hills to the sparkling Pacific.
Hanamaulu Ditch
This once private waterway was designed in 1912 as a two-mile stretch of irrigation flumes and canals. Now, for the first time, these private lands are open to visitors. They are invited to float down the tropical waterway through an old Lihu'e sugarcane plantation with spectacular scenery and vistas. The water flows slowly, so the ride is safe and relaxing.
Princeville
Kauai's North Shore may be the most beautiful place in Hawaii with exotic seabirds, a half-moon bay, lush wilderness and cascading waterfalls. Princeville is set on a high plain overlooking Hanalei Bay and is an 11,000 acre development with a resort and two championship golf courses, as well as many first-class amenities.
Mount Wai'ale'ale
Wai'ale'ale ("Rippling Waters"), the central mountain of Kauai, is one of the wettest places on earth. It is the mountain most sacred to the Hawaiian people, being the source of seven rivers. However, no one really climbs this 5,148-foot mountain because of its steep, slippery and cloud-shrouded terrain. But those who wish to view this magnificent summit can take a helicopter expedition and hope for clear weather.
Some content and photos used with permission from Norwegian Cruise Line.
