Kauai - the oldest of Hawaii's islands Print E-mail
Written by jane69   
Wednesday, 30 March 2005
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Kauai - the oldest of Hawaii's islands
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Kalapaki tropical lagoons
Kalapaki tropical lagoons
Verdant valleys and cascading waterfalls are only the beginning of a long list of fabulous sights. Enjoy also island's blooming flowers, orchids, the romantic sun set or colorful sunrise over the Pacific and crystalline ocean with many fish species.

East side
Bell Stone is a large, smooth stone with sounds like a bell when struck. In ancient times, it was used to announce a royal birth. Kuamo'o Rd., just off Kuhio Hwy., Hwy.56

Fern Grotto is accessible only via Wailua River; this fern fringed cave is popular site for weddings. Hwy. 56, cruise boats and kayak rentals are located on the south side of the Wailua River (before crossing the bridge).
Stop at the scenic lookout on Kuamo'o Rd. and enjoy thunder Opaeka'a Falls.

Sleeping Giant is known as Nounou in Hawaiian, this landmark resembles a giant sleeping on his back. Look inland to see this highly visible mountain along Kuhio Hwy. in the Wailua-Kapa'a area. Waialeale Boat Tours depart every 30 minutes.

Sunrise on Kalapaki beach
Sunrise on Kalapaki beach


Most Kauai visitors arrive via the airport at Lihue.

The white sands and gentle waters of Kalapaki Beach (Nawiliwili Bay) are ideal for sunning. Kalapaki beach also is the home of the Kauai Marriott Resort &Beach Club, and 40 acres of freshwater tropical lagoons that serve as a sanctuary for exotic wildlife. Kuhio Hwy., Rice or Nawiliwili Rd.

Wailua falls
Wailua falls
Wailua Falls, dramatic 80 foot high waterfalls, can be seen from Hwy. 583 or Maalo Road and were used in the opening of the television series Fantasy Island.

Opaekaa Falls is about 1,3 miles from the start of Route 580. The best view is from the path along the highway. Accros the way is a great view of the sacred Wailua River.

South shore
Poipu is the jewel of Kauai's south shore. The coastline is ideal for great swimming and luxurious sunbathing. Explore nearby Koloa Town, with its historic sugar mill (Maluhia Rd.).
One of the "natural wonder" of Kaua'i, Spouting Horn, creates geyser-like effects, created when surf forces water through a lava tube causing a deep, hissing sound. The ancient Hawaiians believed that Kaikapu, a lizard goddess, was trapped by a clever fisherman in the lava tube and the hissing is the sound of her angry roar. Take Po'ipu Rd. from Koloa ant turn right at the sign on Lawai Rd.

Mahaulepu Beach has calm water due to a protective reef and shallow water. There are petroglyphs in the area.

Hawaiian girl
Hawaiian girl
According to legend, the eucalyptus trees, created Tree tunnel, which line Maluhia Road, were planted by Menehune, a legendary race of small people who worked only at night. Turn onto to Maluhia Rd. from Kaumuali'i Hwy., Hwy. 50.

West side
Here you found quiet, rural life. As you drive west on Highway 50, keep watch for the sign to Hanapepe, billed as "Kauai's Biggest Little Town", and also known for its "Swinging Bridge".

Salt Pond is located just beyond Salt Pond Beach Park. The art of salt making is carried on by descendants of ancient salt makers. You must get a permission of the salt makers to enter this area. Take Lele Rd. from Hwy. 50.

The only remaining Russian Fort Elisabeth in Hawaii, it was built by Russian doctor, Georg Scheffer. Turn left at the sign from Hwy. 50 just before entering Waimea town.

It was at the mouth of Waimea Bay that Captain Cook first made landfall in the Sandwich Islands in 1778. Cook was the first westerner to discover the island. It's interesting place to stretch your legs and check the gas tank before continuing on.

Waimea canyon
Waimea canyon
Stay on Kekaha Road further on and you will pass through Kekaha, a country town complete with its own sugar mill and one-story, wooden plantation homes that are still in use. Waimea Canyon Plaza is the last stop before you wind your way up towards ten miles long and about 3600 feet deep, Waimea Canyon, called by Mark Twain the "Grand Canyon of the Pacific".

Beyond Waimea Canyon you passt by Koke'e State Park, home of the Koke'e Lodge and Koke'e Natural History Museum.

Stop on the end of the road at Kalalau Lookout, a few miles beyond Koke's Lodge. On clear days enjoy a spectacular view of knife-edged cliffs and overgrown gorges that drop to the sea 4000 feet below.

By the Robinson family privately owned Ni'ihau Island, also nicknamed "The Forbidden Island", is 17 miles off the west coast of Kauai. Extremely rare and small Ni'ihau Shells are gathered from the island's beaches and painstakingly crafted into leis and necklaces.
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