Destination Highlight: Kauai, Hawaii
A place to start your planning including snorkeling, hiking, viewpoints, and restaurants
Snorkeling
Tunnels Beach: Located on the North Shore, this beach offers crystal-clear water vibrant coral reefs and opportunities to spot tropical fish, sea turtles and monk seals.
Poipu Beach Park: Located on the South Shore, Poipu has a protected cove providing calm waters, great for snorkelers of all skill levels. Find colorful fish, eels and octopus.
Ke’e Beach: Located on the North Shore, this destination offers snorkeling with vibrant coral reefs, tropical fish and opportunities for dolphin and ray spotting.
Lawai Beach: Located near Poipu, check out the underwater lava rubes along with colorful fish, eels and sea turtles. This is also a great spot for snorkelers of all skill levels due to calm waters.
Viewpoints
Waimea Canyon State Park: Known as the ‘Grand Canyon of the Pacific,’ take a drive along the canyon rim and stop at various lookout points.
Hanalei Valley Lookout: Located on the North Shore, this lookout offers panoramic views.
Hiking
Na Pali Coastline: For experienced hikers, tackle Kalalau Trail, a 11 mile (one way) trail along the Na Pali Coastline. A valid permit is required to hike beyond the first two miles. If you aren’t up for such a rigorous trail, check out Awa’awapuhi Trail which is 6 miles round trip, which still offers stunning views.
Waimea Canyon: Though the rim offers great drive up viewpoints, exploring Waimea Canyon on food is spectacular. Canyon Trail and Cliff Trail offer excelled viewpoints and showcase the colorful geological formation.
Restaurants
The Beach House Restaurant: Enjoy a delicious seafood meal oceanfront
Merriman’s Fish House: Showcases farm-to-table cuisine with focus on local ingredients
Red Salt: Offers contemporary dining experience with emphasis on fresh, local ingredients.
Eating House 1849: Offers Hawaiian and international flavors, paying homage to Hawaii’s culinary history.
For ideas on how to find other great restaurants during your trip check out How to Find Great Food in a New Destination