Natural Wonders of Kauai

Waimea Canyon

Located on Kauai’s West Shore, Waimea Canyon called the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific” is a breathtaking 3000 feet deep chasm with stunning panoramic views of crested buttes, rugged crags, and deep valley gorges. Trek the amazing hiking trails through awesome colors of red, green and beige, and experience the grand vistas of Kauai’s dramatic interior for miles. Take Waimea Canyon Drive to lookout points offering breathtaking views of the canyon or continue into the mountains and explore Kokee State Park. At the end of the road, the famous Kalalau Lookout offers a breathtaking view of Kalalau Valley opening out to the Na Pali Coast. 

Na Pali Coast

Accessible only by sea, air, or an arduous, 11-mile hike, the Na Pali Coast is one of the most spectacular places on earth.  The backdrop for movies like Jurrasic Park,  King Kong, and Raiders of the Lost Ark, it’s an absolute Kauai must-see. Explore pristine beaches, deep valleys, winding mountain trails and the 3,000-foot high sea cliffs that overlook panoramic views of the ocean and valley. Hike the 11-mile Kalalau Trail along the rugged coastline of steep green cliffs and cascading waterfalls, through five lush valleys and ancient Hawaiian ruins to Kalalau Beach

Wailua Falls

Wailua Falls is a spectacular 80-foot waterfall that plunges into the southeast shore of Kauai at the south end of the Wailua River. A 4-mile trip out of Lihue, through rolling hills and valleys surrounded by mountains, Wailua Falls is where ancient royalty dove over the falls to prove their worth. The Wailua Falls are one of Kauai’s little secrets known not only for its flowing beauty, but also ease of access. This waterfall appears on many postcards, print and media collections and was used as the opening scene for the 1970’s Television series Fantasy Island.

Polihale Beach

Once named America’s Best Beach by the Travel Channel, Poipu Beach Park is a popular beach attraction on Kauai’s South Shore. The picturesque white sand beach invites swimming, snorkeling, diving, sunbathing and watching the humpback whales (November through March.) Poipu Beach is also famous for the endangered Hawaiian Monk seals that swim in the waters of Kauai. Polihale Beach is the longest stretch of white sand beach in Hawaii. This is a favorite and beautiful beach for long walks, amazing sunsets and camping with the proper permits. Ocean conditions can be dangerous especially during winter months and high swells. Polihale is exposed to open ocean with no protective reefs and no lifeguard.

By: Cody Woodson