Everyone needs and deserves a well-earned getaway from time to time. While some travelers are drawn to mountains when it’s time to unwind, others can relax best in desert terrain. For those that have a heart for scenic beauty, lush surroundings, and beach scenery, there’s no place better on the map than Kauai. Known as the Garden Isle, Kauai has a way with tropical rainforests, cliffsides, and mountains that’s truly one-of-a-kind. While there’s much to see and do here, the following are the top five tourist attractions Kauai has to check out while you’re in town if you can’t wait to check every must-see destination off your itinerary in authentic island style. Happy travels!
Waimea Canyon
When it comes to scenic island views, there’s hardly a place on Earth as beautiful Waimea Canyon. The sensational landscape that makes up this captivating canyon easily makes it one of the top tourist hot spots guests flock to on Kauai. Many people refer to this destination as the Grand Canyon of the Pacific with good reason. It boasts vast dimensions, lush jungles, and a collection of waterfalls backed by deep black volcanic rock. While sightseeing from the rim is always a treat, there are many tour companies that provide specialized visits to different cascades or trails. Waimea Canyon hosts two well-loved lookouts to make sure you explore and if you’re up for a trek, there’s a seemingly limitless number of hiking trails to enjoy as well.
Polihale State Park
Sitting on the pristine west end of the Nap Pali Coast, Polihale State Park is a preferred destination amongst visitors to Kauai from near and far. Here, guests can indulge their senses in a space dominated by sugar-white sandy beaches and beautiful ridges that captivate the mind and imagination with ease. This is one of the best places to visit in Kauai for those who have a passion for photography thanks to the wild terrain that’s accessible in abundance. Shelling and taking in a spectacular sunset are activities that should not be missed when you find yourself here as well.
Wailua Falls
Cascade hunters just can’t get enough of what Kauai has to offer and amongst the best, Wailua Falls stands out in a crowd. Situated between Hanamaulu and Lihue, Wailua Falls is found just off road 583 and 560. Seeing the falls up close is an incredible scene as water tumbles over rocks to pools that rest 80 feet below. Many tourists choose to pair a visit to Wailua Falls with time kayaking on the nearby Wailua River. There are a variety of tours through this area that highlight the surrounding trails and adventure opportunities if some adrenaline-pumping fun is just your style.
Poipu Beach
Many travelers come to Kauai with visions of days spent leisurely soaking up the sun from a beautiful beach. When this is your vision of a great getaway, there’s no question that Poipu Beach is going to top your list of must-visit destinations. Located on the sunny southern coast of the island, Poipu Beach is renowned as one of the most appealing sand and sun-soaked tourist attractions Kauai offers. Amazing waves, blue water, and an ample amount of sugar-white sand make Poipu Beach as popular with sunbathers as it is swimmers, snorkelers, and surfers. Whatever it is you’ve come to enjoy, Poipu Beach is a place that just doesn’t disappoint.
Na Pali Coast State Park
For the visitor to Kauai that can’t wait to set their sights on the most dramatic scenery, the island has to offer, Na Pali Coast State Park checks every box on the list. Found along the northwest coast of the island, Na Pali Coast State Park is home to rugged cliffs, mesmerizing mountains, lush vegetation and stunning waterfalls to match it all. Many visitors book boat or aerial tours to take in the scenery from a comprehensive vantage point. That said, the park is just as pristine from within its immersive parameters. Home to a variety of wildlife and just as many photo-worthy natural landmarks, Na Pali Coast State Park is a place to explore and enjoy beautiful surroundings to the fullest.
Pack Your Bags and Make Your Way to Kauai
There’s truly never been a better time to pack your suitcase and set your sights on an amazing and well-earned vacation to Hawaii. Whether you’re one for the sun, the sand, the surf, or the best of it all, the island of Kauai and all of the Hawaiian Islands have long proven to be places well worth setting time aside to enjoy.
Knowing you have amazing winter rentals in place to add a luxurious and comfortable touch to the experience only makes it that much better! Let the property professionals at Arrived handle all of your vacation rental details so that when you arrive on the island, all that’s left to do is think about the fun that awaits. Reach out today to learn more about our ever-growing portfolio of property options across Kauai and to begin planning your next amazing trip.
