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Kauai Travel Guide, Discount & Cheap Kauai Travel & Tourism, Free Kauai Travel Guide Online

Kauai Travel Guide: Discount & Cheap Kauai Travel & Tourism, Free Kauai Travel Guide Online

Northernmost and oldest geologically, Kaua'i is the fourth largest of the major Hawaiian Islands. Nearly circular in shape, Kaua'i's land area encompasses 533 square miles: 25 miles long by 33 miles wide at its farthest points.

Kaua'i is known for its abundance of uncrowded sandy beaches.

Visitors soon learn that mauka means on the mountain side of the road, and makai means on the ocean side. With Lihu'e as the point of origin, it is easy to explore the island by traveling to sites along its eastern and northern coasts, then visiting attractions around Lihu'e itself, and finally traveling out toward the southern and western coasts.

Kaua'i is the most geologically mature of the main Hawaiian Islands with extensive development of broad, lush erosional valleys and coastal features such as sandy beaches. Spectacular Waimea Canyon, at over 2500 feet deep, is Hawaii's largest erosional valley. Nearly 50% of Kaua'i's 111 miles of coastline is lined with beautiful beaches, derived mainly from wave erosion of reef producing coral and algae.

There are mountains, cascading waterfalls, verdant fern grottoes, mist-shrouded caves, and a lighthouse designated a National Historic Landmark. All around the island are scenic overlooks.

Traveling north from Lihu'e, the visitor encounters green pastureland, lush valleys, and untamed tropical wilderness. An area rich in history and legend, this was where one of the first communities of Polynesians settled more than 1,000 years ago. As the road turns west, tracing the island's north shore, there are historic plantation towns and the resort of Princeville. The road then winds upward into the wilds around Ke'e Beach and Na Pali Coast State Park.

The main road south from Lihu'e leads to an area of warmer and drier air in the approach to the region called Po'ipu. The sun shines steadily on the populated, friendly beaches. Condominiums and hotels line the coastline, and an impressive variety of water sports is available.

Heading west along Kaua'i's south shore, town after town of former plantations pass by. At Waimea, a road skirts the rim of magnificent Waimea Canyon beyond which is the crisp, cool climate of Koke'e, 3,000 ft above sea level. Sequoia forests and swamplands are home to unique, indigenous birds and plants.

Kaua'i's weather is nearly perfect year-round with daytime temperatures ranging from the mid 70's to the mid 80's, slightly warmer in the summer. The northeast trade winds provide refreshing breezes. Rain showers usually fall in the evening and early morning hours, predominantly over the mountain ranges. The temperature of the ocean ranges from 68 to 80 degrees.

A Kaua'i rule is that no building is to exceed the height of a coconut tree (between three and four stories.) There is a subdued nightlife on this least commercially developed of the islands, and no opulent shopping malls. Instead, there is the beauty of the unspoiled rainforest, the endless array of spectacular beaches, the grandeur of Waimea Canyon, the drama of the Na Pali Coast and the spectacle of Hanalei's 4,000-foot-high Namolokama mountain range.

Kaua'i is home to numerous golf courses; including three of the top ten rated golf courses in Hawaii. The exquisite coral reefs are teeming with multitudes of colorful fish. Snorkeling is popular in the clear, warm waters of Kaua'i's lagoons. Wildlife preserves protect endangered sealife.

Kaua'i has been a favorite movie location for years. "Blue Hawaii," "Donovan's Reef," "King Kong" all were shot on Kaua'i. So too were "Raiders of the Lost Ark," "Honeymoon in Vegas," Jurassic Park (I and II), and "George of the Jungle." The musical "South Pacific," was filmed where the Hanalei Bay Resort now stands. A favorite activity is a 4-5 hour van tour of the cinema sites, accompanied by commentary and film clips.

The Garden Island of Kaua'i offers a warm welcome to all visitors. It provides a showcase of incomparable natural beauty, unlimited recreational possibilities set within the framework of the traditions and cultural heritage of the ancient Hawaiians. For a family vacation there is no finer venue than the Garden Island of Kaua'i This idyllic island paradise embodies the true spirit of aloha.

Kauai Attractions: Kauai Travel Guide, Discount & Cheap Kauai Travel & Tourism, Free Kauai Travel Guide Online

Main Areas of the Island of Kaua'i

Poipu, a planned community, is Kaua'i's most popular resort, with the widest variety of accommodations, from luxury hotels to B&Bs and condos. It offers 36 holes of golf, 38 tennis courts, and perfect beaches.

Kahaleo/Lawai

: Just a short 10- to 15-minute drive inland from the beach at Poipu lie the more residential communities of Lawai and Kalaheo.

Koloa

is a tiny old town of brightly painted sugar shacks just inland from Poipu Beach is where the Hawaiian sugar industry began more than 150 yeats ago. The mill is closed, and the plantation town is now a major tourist attraction, with small shops, an old general store, and a vintage Texaco gas station complete with a 1930s Model A truck.

The Coconut Coast,

on the east coast of Kaua'i, bustles with traffic, shops, and condos.

The North Shore,

is rainy, lush, and quiet, with spectacular beaches and deep wilderness. Because of its remote location, the North Shore is isolated from the rest of the island.

Lihu'e

is where most visitors arrive. This farm town, and now the county seat, was founded by sugar planters and settled by descendants of Filipino and Japanese cane cutters. It is plain and simple with inexpensive lodging, dining, and island shopping.

Western Kaua'i

: This region, west of Poipu, is more remote and contains one of Hawaii's most spectacular natural wonders, Waimea Canyon (the Grand Canyon of the Pacific); and farther upland and inland, Kokee State Park.

Hanapepe

: was once one of Kaua'i's largest towns. Founded by Chinese rice farmers, it was used as a backdrop for the miniseries The Thornbirds.. It has galleries selling antiques and local art and crafts. Nearby, at Salt Pond Beach Park, Hawaiians since the 17th century have dried a reddish sea salt in shallow, red-clay pans. Swim or snorkel there and observe an ancient industry still in operation.

Waimea

: This little coastal town, the original capital of Kaua'i, is peaceful and quiet

On his search for the Northwest Passage in 1778, British explorer Capt. James Cook dropped anchor at Waimea and discovered a sleepy village of grass shacks. In 1815, the Russians arrived and built a fort (now a national historic landmark).

The Coconut Coast

: The eastern shore of Kaua'i north of Lihu'e contains an expanse of beaches bordering little coastal . This area is popular with budget travelers and contains the island's major shopping areas.

Kapaa

: The center of commerce on the east coast, this restored plantation town looks just like it did hundreds of years ago. However, everything has been rebuilt and carefully restored following the visit by Hurricane Iniki, which destroyed the town in 1992.

The North Shore

: Kaua'i's North Shore may be the most beautiful place in Hawaii. Exotic seabirds, jagged peaks, and wilderness lie beyond the Coconut Coast.

Kilauea

: This village is home to an antique lighthouse, tropical-fruit stands, little stone houses, and Kilauea Point National Wildlife Refuge, a seabird preserve.

Anini Beach

: This residential district on a 2-mile reef (the biggest on Kaua'i) offers the safest swimming and snorkeling on the island. A beach park is open to campers and day-trippers, and there is a boat ramp where locals launch sampans to fish for tuna.

Princeville

: Princeville Resort is Kaua'i's biggest project, an 11,000-acre (4,452ha) development set on a high plain overlooking Hanalei Bay.

Hanalei

: the gateway to the wild Na Pali Coast.. The 2-mile- (3km) long crescent beach, the biggest indentation on Kaua'i's coast, is ideal for families in summer, when the wild surf turns calm.

Haena

: This 4 mile coast has lagoons, bays, beaches, snorkeling, and a botanical garden.

The Na Pali Coast

(na pali means "the cliffs") is a place of extreme beauty and Hawaii's last true wilderness.

Attractions

Bell Stone

The bellstone, when struck sharply, would resonate a note over the entire Wailua Valley. Royal births were announced this way.

Cleopatra's Barge.

Cleopatra's Barge, built in New England in 1816, was the first ocean-going passenger ship built in the United States. In 1820, it was sold to Liholiho (King Kamehameha II) for the sandalwood trade and renamed Ha'aheo o Hawaii (the Pride of Hawaii). Four years later, the ship ran aground on a reef at Hanalei Bay and sank. Since 1996, Smithsonian archeologists have been excavating the wreck at the mouth of the Waioli River.

Fern Grotto

Children love this trip on a flat bottom boat up the Wailua River., accompanied by Hawaiian song and dance. The dewy, fern-fringed cave is an amphitheater filled with ferns and legends.

Grove Farm Homestead

Hwy. 58, 1⁄2 mile south of Nawiliwili Rd.,

Lihu'e, HI,

(808) 245-3202.

Formerly the 80-acre plantation home of George N. Wilcox, Grove Farm Homestead has been preserved as a depiction of life on a sugar plantation. Tours must be booked well in advance.

The Hanalei Pier.

The Hanalei Pier was featured in "South Pacific," filmed there in 1958. The pier was built in 1892 and used by local farmers to ship their rice until it was closed in 1933. After Hurricane Iniki, in 1992, the wooden pier was condemned and rebuilt from concrete.

Hauola Place of Refuge

At the northern end of the Hikina a ka la Heiau, which is part of Lydgate State Park, is Hauola (dew of life), one of two ancient places of refuge on Kaua'i. If a Hawaiian had broken a kapu or belonged to a defeated army, the goal was to gain entry to a sanctuary such as this. After going through rites conducted by priests here, they were free to return to their homes.

Hikina Akala Heiau

The Hikina a ka la (rising of the sun) Heiau is at the north end of the beach at Lydgate State Park. Evidence indicates it was built around 800 A.D. It was built on the first spot in the Wailua area that the rays of the sun touch each morning.

Holo-holo-ku Heiau

Holoholo Ku (run, run stand fast) Heiau, or the site where it formerly existed (a cemetery replaced it around 1890), is about 1/10-mile up Route 580 off Hwy. 56. A large stone adjacent to nearby ruins is the birthstone, the sacred site of royal births on Kaua'i.

Kokee Natural History Museum

at Kokee State Park at the top of Waimea Canyon Road.

Admission is free

808-335-9975.

Daily 10-4.

Hiking maps and park information are also available at the museum.

Part of the beauty of visiting the park and museum is the drive past Waimea Canyon, the "Grand Canyon of the Pacific" . The small museum is devoted to the flora, fauna, and natural history of the area. It also features collections of shells and Hawaiian artifacts.

Ke'e Beach State Park

Western end of Hwy. 56

Ha'ena,HI

You can view the spectacular Na Pali coastline from this perfect beach. This is also where you'll find the start of the difficult 11-mile Kalalau Trail. Another path leads from the beach to an open, grassy meadow with a stone altar called Lohi'au's Hula Platform. It is said that Laka, goddess of the hula, did most of her dancing on this spot. Today's hula practitioners sometimes leave offerings here for her.

Kalalau Lookout

Waimea Canyon Dr., 4 miles north of Koke'e State Park

Waimea,HI

Kalalau Lookout, near the end of the road high above Waimea Canyon, marks the head of a challenging hiking trail that also passes Pu'u-o-Kila Lookout. On a clear day at either spot you can gaze into the valley at sawtooth ridges and waterfalls. Winds are strong.. If you turn your back to the valley and look to the northwest, it is possible to see the sands of Kalalau Beach.

Kilauea Lighthouse and Kilauea Point National Wildlife Refuge

Kilauea Lighthouse Rd.

Kilauea,HI

808 - 8281413

Daily 10 - 4

A beacon for passing air and sea traffic since it was built in 1913, the lighthouse, a National Historic Landmark, still has the largest clamshell lens of any lighthouse in the world, but it has laid its traffic responsibilities aside. It is surrounded by the Kilauea Wildlife Refuge, home to eight species of seabirds, some of them endangered.

Keahua Forestry Arboretum

Keahua Arboretum is home to mango, monkeypod, eucalyptus trees. The streams are filled with life, and there are pools in which to swim. Picnic tables are scattered here and there and just beyond is access to the sacred area of Mt. Waialeale.

Kaua'i Museum

4428 Rice Street.

If you're in Lihu'e, drop in at the Kaua'i Museum, a local history and art museum for the islands of Kaua'i and Niihau. It features a permanent exhibit of geology, flora, fauna, pre-contact Hawaiiana, and artifacts from the missionary and plantation periods .

Old Koloa Town

The town of Koloa was the site of Kaua'i's first sugar plantation, which was built in the 1830s by Ladd and Company.

Koloa History Center

Located in the Old Koloa Town Mall, the tiny history center offers a brief introduction to the history of the area in the form of artifacts from the old plantation days.

Koke'e State Park

Donation suggested. Daily 10-4.

Koke'e State Park, at the north end of Waimea Canyon, is 4,000 ft above sea level, where the air is cool and crisp and the vegetation is evergreens and ferns. This 4,345-acre wilderness park is full of wild fruit, flowers, and colorful rare birds. A 45-mile network of hiking trails takes you to some of Kaua'i's most remote places. Ask about trail conditions at 808/335-5871.

Lydgate State Park

Lydgate offers picnic grounds, an excellent swimming area for the keiki (children), and a wonderful stretch of beach. There is also a playground built by volunteers from the community. The coconut grove here once served as a place of refuge for the ancient Hawaiians. Those who could reach the boundaries of the refuge before being caught were spared punishment or even death for breaking a kapu (law). The Wailua River begins near the north end of the park.

Limahuli Gardens

Hwy. 56

Ha'ena,HI

808 - 8261053

Tues. - Fri. and Sun. 9:30 - 4

This lovely, natural garden is one of five gardens and three preserves known as the National Tropical Botanical Garden. Limahuli's sometimes steep 3⁄4-mile trail passes ancient taro loi (fields), labeled plants and trees, and mountain streams. Picnicking is not allowed here, and reservations are required for guided tours.

Menehune (Alekoko) Fishpond

Legends describe the Menehune, an ancient race of "little people" who made their home on Kaua'i. These mysterious people were thought to be very industrious and used their great strength to accomplish mighty feats overnight. The seaward end of the fish pond was left unfinished because dawn came before the Menehune had completed their work. Many generations later, the wall was completed. However, the stonework was far inferior to that of the Menehune.

Na Pali Coast and State Park

Na Pali Coast,HI

This is Kaua'i's ultimate hiking adventure. The Kalalau Trail dips and rises along the misty, fluted oceanside cliffs, leaving you breathless -- and not just from the climbing. A white-sand beach at the head of Hanakapia'i Valley is a fine stopping point for day hikers

Tour boats no longer take passengers along the Na Pali shore from Hanalei on the north side of the island, but in the summer months, when the ocean is calm, boats run from Port Allen on the west coast, and kayakers can take a guided tour or explore the coast line in their own rental kayak

National Tropical Botanical Gardens

Lawa'i Rd.

Po'ipu,HI

808 - 3327361

252-acre scientific research center (Lawa'i Gardens) and 100-acre estate property (Allerton Gardens) for botany and horticulture. The visitor center showcases 2,600 different plant species, some of them rare and endangered Hawaiian varieties. The grounds are open only for visitors with reservations for the guided 21⁄2-hour walking tour; meet at visitor center across from Spouting Horn parking lot.

Old Kapaa Town

Old Kapa'a is a quaint 19th century plantation town. The streets are lined with a variety of unique shops and an abundance of restaurants.

Poliahu Heiau

Poliahu Heiau was named for the snow goddess of the Island of Hawaii (legend has it she lived on Mauna Kea). The heiau contains several terraces, idol sites, and a "god stone" five feet high. It is the largest heiau on Kaua'i.

Pohaku Ho'ohanau

To ensure that their children would become kings or chiefs, royal Hawaiian women would go to the sacred stones located at the Pohaku Ho'ohanau heiau to give birth.

Princeville

In 1853, R.C. Wyllie started a coffee plantation on the site of what is now Princeville. The coffee plantation failed, but Princeville is now the largest planned development on Kaua'i. It's home to some of Hawaii's finest resorts, golf courses and restaurants. Princeville is also the site of three beaches, A wide reef creates pockets which are good for snorkeling.

Russian Fort Elizabeth State Historical Park

In 1816, Alexander Baranova came to Kaua'i to trade pelts with the Hawaiians. Kaua'i's king, Kaumuali'i, was looking for a trade alliance with the Russians. Baranova wanted to annex the island chain for the Russian Empire. He built two forts on Kaua'i, one at Waimea Bay and the other at Hanalei. His plan failed, and Baranova and his ships left the islands. The Hanalei fort was at Pu'u Poa overlooking the bay. A few rocky outcroppings remain on a flat area near the Princeville Hotel.

Salt Pond

a glimpse of days gone by is available at the ancient Hawaiian salt ponds near Hanapepe. The art of salt-making in earthen pans is still practiced here by families descending from ancient saltmakers, and is a reminder of the rich Hawaiian culture of the island. Enter the salt-making area only if permission is granted by saltmakers.

Smith's Tropical Paradise

174 Wailua Rd.

Kapa'a,HI

808 - 8216895

Daily 8:30 - 4

next to Wailua Marina on the east side of the island, Smith's Tropical Paradise is 30 acres of family fun, with orchards, jungle paths, exotic foliage, tropical birds, ethnic village settings, and tranquil lagoons. A lu'au banquet and live show are offered Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays from 5 to 9, and there is free shuttle service from Wailua. Reservations are essential for the lu'au, shuttle, and show.

Spouting Horn

Lawa'i Bay

Po'ipu,HI

a waterspout that shoots up like a geyser out of an ancient lava tube. Follow the paved walkways around this area, because the rocks are slippery and people have been known to fall. Vendors sell inexpensive souvenirs and costume jewelry here, but you'll also find one of the best selections of rare and treasured Ni'ihau shell necklaces. When purchasing a Ni'ihau shell lei, ask for a certificate of authenticity and an address in case you need to reorder or repair your purchase at a later date.

Waioli Mission House

Call 808-245-3202

listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Built of coral limestone blocks in 1837, its chimney was put in place by the Reverend William Alexander, the first missionary on Kaua'i. The house was restored in 1921, and recently underwent another restoration.. Wai'oli Mission Hall and picturesque Wai'oli Hui'ia Church (founded in 1834) are nearby. All are historic treasures.

Waimea Canyon

Koke'e,HI

Created by an ancient fault in the earth's crust, the canyon has been eroding over the centuries due to weather, wind, and the water of its rivers and streams. The "Grand Canyon of the Pacific" is 3,600 ft deep, 2 miles wide, and 10 miles long. Its deep reds, greens, and browns are always changing in the light.

Kauai Events: Kauai Travel Guide, Discount & Cheap Kauai Travel & Tourism, Free Kauai Travel Guide Online

Events

Hanapepe Art Night on Fridays

Kaua'i's flourishing art community and Hanapepe galleries host the weekly event. Galleries offer art works and other collectibles for sale, and local musicians play in the streets. 808-335-0227

Plantation Life-Styles Walking Tours

Tues., Thurs. & Saturdays at 9am.

This hour and a half historical walking tour of the Waimea Sugar Mill Camp presents the details of life on a Hawaii sugar plantation. 808-338-0006

Island History Lectures

Kaua'i Historical Society sponsors free monthly lectures on varied aspects of island history. Call for schedule 808-245-3373

Kaua'i Museum Tours,

Free Every Tuesday

10 am every Tuesday, tours of the Kaua'i Museum are presented free with admission. Located at 4428 Rice St. in Lihu'e. 808 245-6931

Kokee Natural History Wonder Walks

The Kaua'i Natural History Museum sponsors guided hikes in Kokee State Park. Reservations required. Bring drinking water; wear hiking shoes. a small donation is requested per hiker. 808- 335-9975.

Kaua'i's Farmer's Markets

Featuring Kaua'i's own tropical fruits, sweet corn, and locally grown salad greens among others..

Monday: Koloa Ball Park 12 noon, Kukui Grove 3:00PM

Tuesday: Kaleheo Neighborhood Center 3:30 PM

Wednesday: Kapaa New Town Park 3:00 PM

Thursday: Hanapepe-across from Post Office 4:00 PM

Friday: Lihu'e Vidinha Stadium 3:00 PM

Saturday: Kekaha Neighborhood Center 10:00 AM

January

Christmas Bird Count

Generally held on New Years Day. There is a small contribution to the National Audubon Society. For more information, call Kokee Natural History Museum at 808-335-9975

Rainbow Arts Festival

This day-long festival for children features giant blow up characters and storytelling at Hanapepe park at the river mouth on Kaua'i. Sponsored by Storybook Theatre of Hawaii. Call 808-335-0712

Kaua'i Rodeo

CJM stables in Poipu hosts this annual event. The rodeo runs all day and features paniolo (Hawaiian cowboys). Call 808-742-6096

February

Eat Dessert First

Taste more than 30 different desserts during this fundraising evening of sweet delights.

Waimea Town Celebration TBA

2 days of fun, food, entertainment and sports, in the small town with a big history. Plantation-era style community celebration draws locals and visitors alike. Saturday sports include

canoe races, Annual Captain Cook Fun Run, and Paniolo (Hawaiian Cowboy) Challenge. Call 808-338-9957

March

Prince Kuhio Long Distance Canoe Race

Presented by Garden Island Canoe Racing Association at Hanamaulu Beach.

Spirit of Mardi Gras

Quota International of Kaua'i presents their annual "Spirit of Mardi Gras Festival and Costume Ball."

Prince Kuhio Festival

Held at Prince Kuhio Park in Poipu. Event includes exhibits, special programs honoring Prince Kuhio and outrigger canoe races.

April

Polo Matches, Mid-April through August

Polo matches at Anini Beach polo field held Sundays at 3 pm. Call: 808-822-3740

May

Annual Lei Contest, Kaua'i Museum, May 1

4428 Rice St. in Lihu'e. Includes music, entertainment, local crafts and a look at some of the best leis ever. For more information call 245-6931

Polo Matches, Mid-April through August

Polo matches at Anini Beach polo field held Sundays at 3 pm. Call: 808-822-3740

Annual Prince Albert Music Festival,Princeville Resort

Festivities include classical and Hawaiian music performances, a children's hula, Holoku Tea and fashion show, antique quilt display and music of old Hawaii. Information: 808-826-6439

Annual Banana Poka Festival: This annual event is Kokee Museum's forest

education fair, complete with guided hikes, craft workshops and entertainment. For details call 335-9975.

Memorial Day Yacht Race, Nawiliwili to Hanalei

Nawiliwili Yacht Club sponsors this annual race from Nawiliwili Harbor in Lihu'e to Hanalei Bay. Awards feast follows at the Hanalei Pavilion
.

Polo Matches

Mid-April through August

Polo matches at Anini Beach polo field held Sundays at 3 pm. 808-822-3740

August

Annual Hanalei-Tahiti Fete

Presented by Hanalei Civic Canoe Club at Hanalei Bay. Includes canoe races and all day entertainment.

Trout Fishing,

Kokee State Park

Trout Fishing season begins in Koke'e State Park streams and reservoirs for a limited time. Fishing License required. Call State Dept. of Land and Natural Resources, Aquatic Resources Div. for specifics 274-3344.

Kokee State Park

Trout Fishing season begins in Koke'e State Park streams and reservoirs for a limited time. Fishing License required. Call State Dept. of Land and Natural Resources, Aquatic

Resources Div. for specifics 274-3344.

August

Kaua'i Tahiti Fete,

This annual competition hula event brings Tahiti's best hula dancers to Kaua'i. Both Tahitian and Hawaiian hula is performed during the festival, along with live music, craft fair and food booths. For more details visit their web pages or call 808-826-934
3

Mid-August

Royal Court Investiture Ceremonies The Kaua'i Aloha Festival's Royal Court

will be installed with special ceremonies and traditional Hawaiian protocols in the magnificance of Wailua-nui-a-ho`ano or the "great sacred Wailua." Chants and dances honoring the trilogy of Hawai`i's cultural traditions tell of a Kaua'i of long ago. This is a very special opportunity to experience authentic and traditional culture for both residents and visitors! Free. Processional begins at 9am. Poli`ahu Heiau, Wailua.

Kokee Wonder Walk, August

Guided hike of trails at Kokee State Park. Wonder Walk will begin at the Kokee Natural History Museum promptly at 12:15. $3 donation.

Kokee Natural History Museum 335-9975

Sam Choy's Poke Contest, Mid-August

"Poke"-the Hawaiian delicacy of raw fish is taken to extreme levels in this delicious, annual culinary contest! Open to both professional and amateur chefs, it draws some of the most innovative talent in the Pacific Rim regions. For information, call 821-2070.

Annual Summer Craft Fair

Kaua'i Museum, 4428 Rice St. in Lihu'e. For more information call 245-6931

Kaua'i County Farm Fair

A favorite with children, the county fair features carnival rides, local food, produce, crafts, 4-H livestock displays, and entertainment. Adults may want to check out the orchid and bonsai plant competition.

Magnificent Mango Mini-Feast

Annual Magnificent Mango Mini-Feast held at Borders Book store. Events spotlight the succulent tropical fruit and may include a mini-farmers' market, mango products, mango food sampling, recipe contests and entertainment. Borders Books Music Cafe-246-0862.

September

Mokihana Festival

The highlights of this annual festival are the Kaua'i Composers Contest which spotlights local composers and entertainers and the Ukulele Jam. Many events featured across the island. For more information, view the Mokihana Web Site or call 808-822-2166

Kaua'i Paniolo Ranch Rodeo, Usually held in Sept.

Held at the CJM Country Stables in Poipu. Paniolo: Hawaiian cowboys: compete in rodeo events which range from typical to the uniquely Hawaiian. Call Joyce Miranda at

808-742-6096

October

Aloha Festivities

Aloha Festivities are celebrated throughout Kaua'i in October. A royal court presides over such events as a Royal Ball, horse racing, concerts, hula, tour of heiau (Hawaiian sacred site), fishing tournaments and a Hawaiian sports challenge. Call: 808-944-8857

Taro Festival in Hanalei

The annual Taro Festival celebrates the cultivation of one of old Hawaii's dietary staples. The celebration includes music, hula, food, exhibits and games for keiki (kids). Experience the "Taste of Taro": a feast of taro dishes, and other exotic events around this Polynesian plant.

November

PGA Grand Slam,

One of golf's most prestigious events, the annual Grand Slam features the beautiful Poipu Bay Resort Golf Course. This course is one of several prestigious golf courses located on Kaua'i. Accommodations in Poipu during the Grand Slam are at a premium and generally sell out well before the event. Suite Paradise accommodations are within close proximity to both the Poipu Bay Resort Golf Course, and the Kiahuna Golf Club. For questions regarding accommodations during the Grand Slam contact Suite Paradise at 800-367-8020.

International Film Festival

This annual event specializes in Pacific Rim films and offers a wide assortment of newly released and obscure films. The festival usually lasts a week with films shown at theaters across the island. Admission for most films is free.

December

Holiday Hula Celebration

Annual "Holiday Hula Celebration." Dancers perform a variety of hulas traditional and modern. There will also be a children's Christmas chorale and ukulele group, silent auction, Christmas ornament contest and bake good sale. Guests include Santa bringing goodies for the children. Admission fee. 335-6466.

4th Annual Lighted Christmas Parade

Held at Hofgaard Park in Waimea Town, this community event includes free refreshments and Santa! 808-338-9957

First Night Kaua'i Style, Dec. 31

This Annual New Year's Eve Cultural Festival is usually held in the immediate vicinity of the county facilities on Rice Street, Lihu'e from 6 pm-1:00 am. This family-oriented, alcohol and drug-free New Year's Eve celebration, includes multicultural dance/music, foods, entertainment, crafts and other activities, sponsored by Kaua'i Habitat for Humanity. 1-888-822-7002

Festivals

December:
Bodhi Day ( 808/522-9200), the traditional Buddhist Day of Enlightenment, is celebrated at temples statewide; visitors are welcome.

December:
Festival of Lights ( 808/828-0014). Islands deck out the lights to celebrate the season, with electric light parades, decorated city buildings, and events that last throughout December.

December:
Christmas sees hotels outdoing each other in such extravagant exhibits and events as Santa arriving by outrigger canoe.

January-February:
Chinese New Year Celebrations ( 808/245-6931 Kaua'i) include a Narcissus Festival pageant, coronation ball, cooking demonstrations, fireworks, and lion dances.

Spring

March 26:
Prince Kuhio Day ( 808/822-5521), a local holiday, honors Prince Kuhio, a member of Congress who might have become king if Hawai'i had not become a U.S. territory and later a state. April:
Buddha Day ( 808/536-7044) pageants are staged at island Buddhist temples to celebrate Buddha's birth. May 1:
Lei Day ( 808/547-7393) is an annual flower-filled celebration with music, hula, food, and lei-making competitions and exhibits.

Prince Lot Music Festival

( 808/826-9644) is Princeville's signature event, attracting local musicians and distinguished American composers. There are hula performances and art and cultural exhibits, too.

Summer

June:
King Kamehameha Day ( 808/586-0333) honors the man who united all the islands and became Hawai'i's first king. Parades and fairs abound.

July 4: Independence Day is celebrated with fairs, parades, and, of course, fireworks.

July-August:
Bon Odori Season ( 808/661-4304): Buddhist temples invite everyone to festivals that honor ancestors and feature Japanese o-bon dancing.

August:
Admission Day, the third Friday in August, recognizes Hawai'i's attainment of statehood in 1959.

Fall

September-October: Aloha Festivals ( 808/545-1771), begun in 1946, preserve Hawaiian native culture. Crafts, music, dance, pageantry, street parties, and canoe races are all part of the action.

Arts and Entertainment

Kaua'i Community College Performing Arts Center

3-1901 Kaumuali'i Hwy.

Lihu'e,HI

808 - 2458311

Kaua'i Community College Performing Arts Center provides a venue for Hawaiian music and dance as well as visiting performers.

Nightlife

People on Kaua'i take great pride in their culture and enjoy sharing their traditions with those who come to call. As a result, on the Garden Isle you will find more traditional Hawaiiana and less glitz than on neighboring O'ahu.

Most of the island's dinner and lu'au shows take place within a hotel or resort. Hotel lounges and restaurant bars offer live music with no cover charge.

Sports

Captain Zodiac Raft Expedition

1-800-422-7824.

A boating trip on 23 foot inflatable rubber boats (weather permitting). Children prefer the snorkeling activity to the sightseeing excursion.

Golf

Some of Hawaii's most challenging golf courses are found on Kaua'i. In addition to several outstanding resort courses, there are also some excellent public courses. What puts all these golf courses in a class above those you might play elsewhere, is their location. Most come with an inspiring ocean view or spectacular mountain backdrop.

Horseback Riding

One of the best ways to explore Kaua'i is from horseback. There are scenic trails that follow along the coast. Trips up Hanalei Valley, reveal a place that hasn't changed much in the past one thousand years. Other trails take you to Haupu Valley, along the beach and past the coves of Mahaulepu Beach, or down into Waimea Canyon.

Fishing

Kaua'i is a popular spot for both freshwater and saltwater anglers. Large- and smallmouth bass are taken in Kaua'i's inland reservoirs. Marlin, ahi, ono, and aku are found in abundance off Kaua'i's south and east coasts. There also are special charters available that will carry you near the private island of Niihau for giant tuna and marlin.

Hiking

About 10 percent of Kaua'i is accessible by road.

Write to the Hawaii Geographic Society, P.O. Box 1698, Honolulu, HI 96806, and ask for their information packet..

Three of Kaua'i's best trails:

The Kukui Trail

This 5-mile (round trip) trail drops 2,000 feet into spectacular Waimea Canyon, and offers the shortest route to the canyon floor. There's a large swimming hole at the bottom.

The Kuilau Ridge Trail

This 4.2-mile (round trip) hike offers dramatic views of small waterfalls and a wealth of flora. The trailhead is about a mile beyond the University of Hawaii Agricultural Experimental Station on Route 580.

The Kalalau Trail

This is the original Hawaiian trail into Kalalau Valley, and offers dramatic views of Na Pali Coast and Kee Beach. It begins at Kee Beach where Highway 56 ends. Two miles inland is Hanakapiai Falls, which cascades 300 feet to a pool below.

Windsurfing

Anini Beach Park and Kalapaki Beach are both good places for windsurfing, especially Anini Beach because it said to have more consistent wind. On the south coast, Poipu Beach is also an excellent choice. For the more advanced, Haena Beach on the north shore is a great spot.

Scuba Diving

The best diving on Kaua'i is found along the southern shore because waters are calmer. The water is clear, with visibility averaging about 50 feet, and sea life is abundant.

Kauai Facts: Kauai Travel Guide, Discount & Cheap Kauai Travel & Tourism, Free Kauai Travel Guide Online

Population

: 57,000

Location:

533 sq. miles

Elevation

: 3 miles

Time Zone:

Six hours behind standard time on the
east coast of mainland U.S. When it is noon (EST) in New York City; it is 6:00 AM on the island of Kaua'i. However, Daylight Savings Time is not observed. As a result, the time in summer will be 5 hours behind that of New York City.

Weather:

Average Temperatures:

Month

High

Low

January

78F

64F

February

78F

64F

March

78F

65F

April

79F

67F

May

81F

70F

June

83F

72F

July

84F

73F

August

85F

74F

September

85F

73F

October

83F

71F

November

81F

70F

December

78F

67F

When to Go:

Though Kaua'i's climate is tropical, it actually consists of many distinct microclimates, including sunny dry areas, lush river valleys, temperate foothills and high mountain rain forests. Most of the year, temperatures on Kaua'i range in the 70s, with winter nighttime lows in the 60s.

Thenorth coast beaches are best for surfing in the winter and swimming in the summer. The reverse is true for the south coast beaches. Thus, it is always a good time to visit the island regardless of your recreational interests. The climate is such that the weather is perfect year round.

Summers on Kaua'i bring daytime temperatures in the mid-80s and nighttime lows in the 70s. Even in the middle of Kaua'i's summer, the nearly constant gentle trade winds create a cool balmy climate instead of the oppressive heat common to other tropical destinations.

Holidays

New Year's Day Jan. 1

Martin Luther King, Jr., Day 3rd Mon. in Jan.

President's Day 3rd Mon. in Feb.

Kuhio Day, March 24

Memorial Day last Mon. in May

Kamehameha Day, June 9

Independence Day July 4

Admission Day, 3^rd Friday in August

Labor Day 1st Mon. in Sept.

Discoverer's Day, 2^nd Monday in October

Veteran's Day, November 10

Election Day, November

Thanksgiving Day 4th Thurs. in Nov.

Christmas Day Dec. 25

Mainland-style discount and department stores reached Kaua'i years ago, carrying an all-inclusive selection of moderately priced merchandise. Kaua'i's major shopping centers are open daily from 9 or 10 to 5, although some stay open until 9. Stores are basically clustered around the major resort areas and Lihu'e.

Doctors:

Walk-ins are accepted at
Kaua'i Medical Clinic, 3-3420 Kuhio Hwy. Suite B, Lihu'e (
808/245-1500, or 808/245-1831 after hours)

Emergencies:

Dial 911 for police, fire, and ambulance service. The
Poison Control Center can be reached at
800/362-3585.

Hospitals: Wilcox Health System,

3420 Kuhio Hwy., Lihu'e (
808/245-1100), has emergency services available around the clock.

Police:

For non-emergencies, call
808/245-9711.

Post Office:

The main post office is at 4441 Rice St., Lihu'e. To find the branch office nearest you, call
800/ASK-USPS.

Weather:

For current weather conditions, call
808/245-6001. For marine conditions, call
808/245-3564

Electricity

The U.S. electrical standard is 110 volts/60 cycles AC. Foreign visitors traveling with dual-voltage appliances will not need a converter, but they will need a plug adapter. The standard U.S. electrical outlet takes a plug of two flat pins set parallel to one another.

ATMs

Automated teller machines for easy access to cash are everywhere on the islands. ATMS can be found in shopping centers, small convenience and grocery stores, inside hotels and resorts, as well as outside most bank branches. For a directory of locations, call 800/424-7787 for the Cirrus network or 800/843-7587 for the Plus network.

Divers' Alert

Do not fly for 24 hours after scuba diving.

Telephones

The country code for the United States is 1. The area code for Kaua'i is 808.

Taxes

There is a 4.17% state sales tax on all purchases in Hawaii, including food. A hotel room tax of 7.25%, combined with the sales tax of 4.17%, adds an 11.42% charge to your hotel bill. A $2-per-day road tax is also assessed on each rental vehicle.

Getting There

By Air

Many of the major airline carriers serving Honolulu now fly direct to Kaua'i, sparing visitors the necessity of making a connecting flight out of Honolulu. Island hopping is still easy, with flights departing Honolulu every 20 to 30 minutes daily until mid-evening.

Kaua'i's
Lihu'e Airport (LIH) (808/246-1400) handles most of the air traffic in and out of Kaua'i. Three miles east of the town of Lihu'e, the terminal is spacious and contemporary. Once you arrive, if you have any immediate questions, stop by the
Lihu'e Airport Visitor Information Center (808/246-1440), outside each baggage claim area. Open daily.

North of Lihu'e is
Princeville Airport (HPV), a tiny strip in the middle of rolling ranch lands and sugarcane fields today used primarily by private planes

Hawai'i's major airport is
Honolulu International (HNL), (808/836-6413 or 808/836-6411) on O'ahu, 20 minutes (9 mi) west of Waikiki. Visitors traveling on from there to other islands depart from either the inter-island terminal or the commuter-airline terminal, located in two separate structures adjacent to the main overseas terminal building. Flying time to Honolulu is about 10 hours from New York, 8 hours from Chicago, and 5 hours from Los Angeles.

Transfers Between the Airport and Town

The driving time from Lihu'e Airport to the town of Lihu'e is only five minutes. From Lihu'e to Wailua or Kapa'a driving time is 15 minutes, and to Princeville and Hanalei about 45 minutes.

From Lihu'e south to Po'ipu, the major resort area, is a 30-minute drive. To Waimea it takes one hour, and if you choose the rustic accommodations in the hills of Koke'e, allow a good hour and a half of driving time from Lihu'e.

Check with your hotel or condo to see if it offers free shuttle service from the airport.

Buses run more or less hourly from 5:30am to 6pm. with special rates for students and disabled passengers. They do not, however, accommodate luggage.

By Car

Car-rental companies have offices at both airports on Kaua'i. They'll also provide you with driving directions to your hotel or condo.

By Ship

Another way to visit Kaua'i for a short time is to book passage on an inter-island cruise ship.
American Hawai'i Cruises (Robin St. Wharf, 1380 Port of New Orleans Pl. New Orleans, LA 70130-1890, 800/765-7000) has been conducting seven-day excursions for years. The massive white SS Independence, refurbished in 1997, and the 1,214-passenger MS Patriot, added to the fleet in 2000, leave Honolulu each Saturday, stopping at Nawiliwili on the east coast of Kaua'i, as well as at Maui and Hilo and Kona on the Big Island. At each port of call you may get off the ship for sightseeing and shore excursions.

Getting Around Kaua'i

With little public transportation, rental cars are recommended, but getting around on Kaua'i is easy. Kaua'i's roads almost encircle the entire coastline except for the Na Pali Coast where building roads is not possible.

Driving Around Kaua'i:

A car is recommended as the best way to see the island. There are only two major highways, each beginning in Lihu'e. From Lihu'e Airport, turn right, Continue to the Coconut Coast and through the North Shore and dead-end at Kee Beach, where the Na Pali Coast begins. The breathtaking steep green cliffs of Na Pali provide a natural barrier, limiting access to those walking or traveling via helicopter or boat.

Motorcycle Rentals

are also available.

Other Transportation Options

:
Kaua'i Taxi Company (
808/246-9554) offers taxi, limousine, and airport shuttle service.
Kaua'i Bus (
808/241-6410) operates a fleet of 15 buses that serve the entire island. Space is extremely limited aboard the buses, and they don't stop at any of the resort areas, but they do serve more than a dozen coastal towns between Kekaha, on the southwest shore and Hanalei.

Kauai Kids Activities: Kauai Travel Guide, Discount & Cheap Kauai Travel & Tourism, Free Kauai Travel Guide Online

Kokee Natural History Museum

at Kokee State Park at the top of Waimea Canyon Road.

Admission is free

808-335-9975.

Daily 10-4.

Hiking maps and park information are also available at the museum.

Ke'e Beach State Park

Western end of Hwy. 56

Ha'ena,HI

Kalalau Lookout

Waimea Canyon Dr., 4 miles north of Koke'e State Park

Waimea,HI

Kilauea Lighthouse and Kilauea Point National Wildlife Refuge

Kilauea Lighthouse Rd.

Kilauea,HI

808 - 8281413

Daily 10 - 4

Keahua Forestry Arboretum

Kaua'i Museum

4428 Rice Street.

Old Koloa Town

The town of Koloa was the site of Kaua'i's first sugar plantation, which was built in the 1830s by Ladd and Company.

Koloa History Center

Located in the Old Koloa Town Mall, the tiny history center offers a brief introduction to the history of the area in the form of artifacts from the old plantation days.

Koke'e State Park

Donation suggested. Daily 10-4.

Lydgate State Park

Limahuli Gardens

Hwy. 56

Ha'ena,HI

808 - 8261053

Tues. - Fri. and Sun. 9:30 - 4

Menehune (Alekoko) Fishpond

Na Pali Coast and State Park

Na Pali Coast,HI

National Tropical Botanical Gardens

Lawa'i Rd.

Po'ipu,HI

808 - 3327361

Old Kapaa Town

Old Kapa'a is a quaint 19th century plantation town. The streets are lined with a variety of unique shops and an abundance of restaurants.

Poliahu Heiau

Pohaku Ho'ohanau

To ensure that their children would become kings or chiefs, royal Hawaiian women would go to the sacred stones located at the Pohaku Ho'ohanau heiau to give birth.

Princeville

Russian Fort Elizabeth State Historical Park

Salt Pond

Smith's Tropical Paradise

174 Wailua Rd.

Kapa'a,HI

808 - 8216895

Daily 8:30 - 4

Spouting Horn

Lawa'i Bay

Po'ipu,HI

Waioli Mission House

Call 808-245-3202

Waimea Canyon

Koke'e,HI

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