Kauai

Exploring the Garden Isle in the "Rainbow State".

Dark blue beaches, lush rainforests, inactive volcanoes, and fresh fish are just a glimpse of what this island in Hawaii has to offer.

I had the fantastic opportunity to travel to Hawaii this past year, fulfilling a dream destination with my favorite travel partner—my mom. We explored the island from coast to coast, so let me share highlights from this unforgettable mother-daughter trip!

South Shore - Koloa, Poipu, Lihue:

We stayed in a charming condo in Koloa, just a twenty-five-minute drive from Lihue Airport. Driving around in our rented Jeep, with lush greenery, tall palm trees, and volcanic mountains surrounding us, felt surreal. Our accommodation was right by the water, allowing us to hear the waves crashing against the rocky coast. The dramatic black lava rock formations created a stunning landscape, and we had a scenic walking path nearby, leading us to the dark stones jutting over the sea where we could watch the ocean and enjoy breathtaking sunsets.

Shipwreck Beach, our first spot, welcomed us with stunning views and gentle waves. It was perfect for relaxing and people-watching, and we even witnessed a small wedding ceremony—an idyllic romantic setting for any couple. The rocky cliffs also offered panoramic views that were simply spectacular. With the weather shifting between sunshine and light showers, rainbows frequently graced the sky, exemplifying the beauty of the "Rainbow State."

Old Koloa Town was a quaint village filled with delightful shops, cafes, and restaurants. We found our daily caffeine fix at Java Kai, serving delicious coffee and healthy breakfast options. I adored Big Monster Sushi, a food truck with a wide selection of rolls at great prices. Fresh fish, sushi, and poke bowls are abundant in Hawaii, and they’re simply unbeatable. Another highlight was the Koloa Sugar Mill, the first thriving sugar plantation, where we explored the grounds and enjoyed rum tastings.

A short drive took us to Poipu, home to the gorgeous Poipu Beach. Its soft sands were perfect for lounging, especially with the adorable sea turtles nesting and resting on the shore. The water was ideal for snorkeling, making it a popular hangout spot. We also tried Puka Dog, famous for its Hawaiian-style hot dogs, and indulged in the iconic Hawaiian shaved ice available at numerous local stands. Our visit to the Allerton and McBryde Gardens revealed a stunning garden space bordered by trees, with the ocean just across the road. We stumbled upon an outdoor market featuring handmade jewelry and crafts, along with a local dance group performing traditional Hawaiian hula—a wonderful glimpse into Hawaiian culture.

East Coast - Wailua, Kapa'a, Anahola:

We began our exploration with a guided kayak and hiking tour in the Wailua River Valley. Our tour with Kayak Wailua was unforgettable! Tandem kayaking down the winding river, flanked by lush mountains, was breathtaking. After our hour-long paddle, we hiked through the forest to reach Secret Falls—a stunning waterfall for a refreshing dip in its cool green waters. I highly recommend this adventure; it's an incredible way to immerse yourself in the island's natural beauty. Fun fact: besides sea turtles, the island is also home to wild chickens and boars, which roam freely everywhere!

Eager for more waterfalls, we visited a lookout spot with a clear view of 'Opaeka'a Falls, standing at an impressive 151 feet tall, slightly larger than the falls we had just seen. Although we didn’t experience it ourselves, we heard many rave about the Smiths Family Garden Luau for an authentic Hawaiian luau experience.

Nestled along the East Shore, between Kapa'a and Anahola, lies the tranquil Donkey Beach—a hidden gem inviting visitors to unwind in a serene setting. It’s perfect for sunbathing, but not swimming as the currents are very strong.

For those seeking activity, the Kapa'a bike trail, known as Ke Ala Hele Makalae, offers a delightful 7.6-mile pathway, ideal for biking along the picturesque coastline from Lydgate Beach to Donkey Beach.

North Shore - Princeville, Hanalei, Haena, Kilauea:

The North Shore boasts a wealth of attractions. The Kilauea Lighthouse, near the Kilauea Point National Wildlife Refuge, provides stunning views of the rocky coastline, large lighthouse and ocean waves.

Anini Beach, just a short drive from Princeville, is perfect for snorkeling in its crystal-clear waters. The vibrant coral reef is home to colorful fish, and I was lucky enough to spot an eel gliding among them.

Exploring Hanalei, a charming town filled with shops and eateries, was delightful. We enjoyed a delicious meal from Chicken in a Barrel, a local barbecue favorite. Nearby Hanalei Bay featured calm green waters and a long pier, with the mountains framing it breathtakingly. It’s bustling with families and sailboats, and you could easily spend hours soaking in the sights.

We also visited the elegant 1 Hotel Hanalei for sunset drinks. The ambiance, with expansive glass windows and a balcony overlooking the gorgeous inlet, felt surreal. Sipping a French 75 as the sun set over the Pacific was a treasured experience.

Princeville is another town that offers a variety of restaurants and is characterized by luxury homes, golf courses, and condominiums. Queens Bath tide pools are a popular tourist spot, where you can swim in the large tide pools. It's always a good idea to check in advance whether this spot is safe to swim in at the time you plan to be there.

Continuing towards Ha'ena, we paused at Tunnels Beach—the location that inspired the infamous movie "Soul Surfer." The beach is stunning, although swimming is dangerous due to rip currents. The contrast of golden sands with emerald mountains, sapphire waters and black lava rocks was breathtaking. Just across the road lies the famed Ha'ena Dry Cave, where the air turns cool the second you step in, and the cavernous entrance turns into a small tunnel going deeper a considerable distance.

West Coast - Waimea and Na Pali:

The Na Pali Coast is a spectacular adventure I eagerly awaited. We opted for a thrilling boat tour on a catamaran, taking in the dramatic landscape of towering cliffs, lush valleys, waterfalls, and sea caves. It’s a sight that truly defies description. We explored a couple of caves and encountered sea turtles and dolphins, and even had the chance to jump into the open ocean. This area is steeped in history, once inhabited by ancient indigenous peoples.

Another breathtaking spot is the Waimea Canyon, which is technically part of the Na Pali Coast. It's known as the Grand Canyon of the Pacific, which isn't far from the truth. You can drive up to the lookout, where breathtaking views await you as you ascend higher up the canyon. The top, accessible by a short walk, offers an incredible view of the large canyon. It was misty when we arrived, but five minutes later, it cleared to reveal a stunning array of colors, ranging from dark greens to intense oranges and muted yellows.

To end our day, we visited The Barrel Taps Waimea, a barbecue spot within the Waimea Plantation Cottages. The food was outstanding, and the view was perfect as we savored our meals alongside a refreshing beer, making it an ideal conclusion to a memorable day of exploration.

Overall, this trip was truly outstanding, and I wish I could experience it all over again. Kauai is such a breathtaking little island, filled with incredible sights and welcoming locals. I’m especially grateful to the island's residents for their fantastic recommendations, which transformed our journey into an unforgettable adventure that will forever hold a special place in my heart!