Every month, over 100,000 people arrive on Kauai ready to experience all it has to offer. Most tourists want to enjoy island beaches, sample classic Hawaiian eats, and simply get away from it all. But if you’re not into that kind of thing, taking a journey to the fourth-largest Hawaiian Island might end up being a total bust. Wondering if that might be the case?
To help you out, here’s a look at the top 10 reasons you should definitely not visit Kauai:
You’re Not a Big Fan of Sand
Did you find yourself nodding along in agreement with Anakin Skywalker when he revealed, “I don’t like sand,” in Star Wars: Episode II – Attack of the Clones? If so, Kauai might just be the stuff of nightmares for you. It’s an island, after all, and you know what that means: sand! And lots of it. A truly coarse, rough, and irritating force, sand has an uncanny way of getting absolutely everywhere, resulting in you potentially bringing it home after your trip. To avoid that, just say no to spending your days on all its beautiful sandy beaches.
Fun in the Sun is Just Not Your Jam
Over 50 miles of sandy shores stretch along the coastline of Kauai, opening up the doors to endless fun in the sun. Wait, did you just recoil in horror? If fun in the sun makes you run for the rainy hills, traveling to Kauai might just take the wind out of your sails. The island gets over 240 days of sunshine, after all, so you can bet that it’ll be sunny and warm throughout your trip. Even visiting in the winter cannot guarantee sunshine won’t follow you wherever you go.
Botanical Gardens Squick You Out
Does nothing squick you out more than native plants growing, thriving, and minding their own business? If the answer is a resounding yes, avoid Kauai 100%, or you’ll regret it. Between its botanical gardens and well-maintained parklands, this island has huge stretches of native plants here, there, and absolutely everywhere. So, you really cannot risk it if you’re bound to feel utterly repulsed upon encountering healthy and thriving coconut trees, Hawaiian roses, and so much more.
When Adventure Calls, You Firmly Decline
Ring, ring, it’s adventure calling! Wow, if you just hung up with the quickness, save yourself the trip to Kauai. Mountain hikes. Canal tubing. Zipline rides. Fishing charters. Dolphin tours. Waterfall swims. Surfing lessons. And the list goes on and on. With so many adventures awaiting, you simply cannot land on the island and sit it out. You need to sign up to avoid missing out on all the fun and excitement or the calls will keep coming.
Fresh Island Produce Simply Doesn’t Appeal
Fresh island produce – who needs it? If you’re thinking, “Not me,” your Kauai travels will leave you dodging island-fresh fruits and veggies everywhere you go. Family farm stands show up on all the major roads. Plus, there’s at least one farmer’s market practically every week in each section of the island. Making matters worse, the local restaurants take full advantage of the fresh produce on tap, so you simply cannot escape the island’s bounty.
Homecooked Food Gets You in Your Feelings
Homecooked food often brings a sense of nostalgia as the rich, bold flavors tantalize your tastebuds. But if that experience gets you in your feelings without a way to escape, then perhaps Kauai’s not the way to go. You see, all the local restaurants put their heart and soul into creating homestyle eats that are good enough to make you cry. So, really, the only way to avoid all the heart-wrenchingly delicious fare is to stay safe at home.
Sunset Views Don’t Set Your Heart Free
While on Kauai, each day ends with the sun going down and lighting up the sky in a brilliant array of hues. For many, the sunset views set their heart free, leaving them reflecting on life’s radiant beauty. If that’s not the case for you, staying home might be the best bet. Unless you head to the hotel at the golden hour and duck your head under a pillow, you cannot avoid getting a glimpse of the gorgeous sunset each evening.
Taking It Slow Sounds Like a Nightmare
Life simply slows down while on the island of Kauai. There’s no real reason to rush around. In fact, it’s best to just leisurely move from place to place, so you can enjoy the island life experience to the fullest. So, if the idea of taking it slow gives you the willies, perhaps set your sights on a trip to NYC or some other busy cityscape.
You Say No to ‘Pack It In, Pack It Out’
‘Pack It In, Pack It Out’ is the way to go while visiting Kauai. By taking that approach, you can help preserve the health and beauty of the island for generations to come. If that’s not really your style, save yourself the trouble and enjoy a staycation instead. Acting as a steward of the land is not an option on any of the Hawaiian Islands – or really anywhere your travels take you.
Mahalo Doesn’t Roll Off Your Tongue
As you visit local shops, eateries, and attractions on Kauai, you’ll hear mahalo, or thank you, ring out toward the end of your visit. Gratitude is the name of the game, after all, making the island a truly delightful place to spend your vacation days. If you’re not willing to let your preferred expression of gratitude roll off your tongue as well, then why bother? Just stick to your home turf instead.
By now, you’re undoubtedly sure if a trip to Kauai will delight – or disappoint – you and your travel mates. So, use that knowledge to guide your decisions as you make your upcoming travel plans. That way, you’re not caught off-guard by gorgeous sandy beaches, delicious home-cooked foods, and the like.
