Life can be a little strenuous at times, and we are all in need of a vacation every now and then. When choosing the perfect spot for your dream take-off, the number of locations that flood your search bar can be a little overwhelming. Don’t worry, however, because we have your once-in-a-lifetime vacation wrapped up in this blog.
Kauai, the garden isle, is full of adventure, breathtaking views of gardens and mountaintops, and several eateries that you won’t be able to get enough of. Some words can’t even begin to describe the feeling you’ll get simply by looking at all of the beauty of this island. If you’re a hiker, if you’re a foodie, if you admire pristine beaches, or if you can’t get enough of radiating sun and tropical gardens — Kauai is the one vacation that you cannot pass up.
Here are 11 reasons why Kauai is your wonderland of a vacation:
Waimea Canyon
Pictures cannot do this view the justice it deserves, but it definitely hits on some of the beauty that Waimea Canyon has to offer. On Kauai’s west shore, find yourself looking out into the scenery of this 13-mile long canyon. If you’re looking for the sight that will truly leave you speechless, this lookout is what you need.
Glass Beach
Where sea glass meets your feet and it…doesn’t hurt? Glass Beach is a beautiful beach located on the south shore of Kauai. You’ll find little black grains from lava rock as well as glass that has been smoothed over by the ocean waters breaking against the shore. An amazing landscape for pictures, or simply a great spot to fill some momentos in a small jar to take home with you.
Allerton and McBryde Garden
Kauai isn’t called “the garden isle” for no reason. This island is full of tropical oases and gardens throughout the land. Take a tour through the McBryde Garden and get your fill of the Hawaiian flowers and wildlife, or take a tour through Allerton Garden and satisfy your soul with tropical plants and fig trees. For movie lovers, Allerton Garden’s fig trees could be spotted in Jurassic Park!
Garden Island Chocolate
You’re on vacation… It’s only right to indulge in a little chocolate fun, right? Garden Island Chocolate offers an educational tour of Cacao Beans and chocolate goodness! Where else can you fully take in the beautiful flavors of our favorite sweet treat (and superfood) while learning the process behind it? Don’t stray away from the hot chocolate, it truly is a fan favorite.
CJM Country Stables
There’s nothing quite like riding through horseback in the jungle leaves of a tropical island. CJM Country Stables is a horseback riding experience in Kauai that will let you see the island from a whole new perspective. Trying new adventures and having these opportunities are a huge part of what makes Kauai so full of excitement! Plus, the views on these tours will leave you in awe.
Kilohana Plantation
If this picture doesn’t make you want to visit the Kilohana Plantation, we don’t know what will. The Kilohana Estate offers a variety of activities you can enjoy on your vacation. Do a little shopping at Clayworks at Kilohana and make pottery by hand, tour around the land on the Kauai Plantation Railway, indulge in a little rum and safari exploration with Kauai Safaris, watch the incredible Luau Kalamaku and celebrate Hawaiian culture, get your munch on at the Plantation House at Gaylord’s, or simply just take tours of the estate. A neverending list of fun and excitement — this is a true experience like no other.
Blue Hawaiian Helicopters
If you’re in Kauai and you want to see views like you never have before, do the helicopter tour. Blue Hawaiian Helicopters will show you scenic landscapes and the best exploration that the island has to offer. Fly up in the sky and get the chance to see unbelievable views such as; Manawaiopuna Falls, Hanapepe Valley, Na Pali Coast, and Waimea Canyon!
Kauai Backcountry Adventures
Tubing trips and ziplining through the jungle that is Kauai? YES! Kauai Backcountry Adventures is a family-friendly adventure that completes every vacation. Go mountain tubing through Kauai’s open canals for 3 to 5 hours or go ziplining to get that up close and personal experience with the forestry of Kauai!
Ko Bakery
When you’re not adventuring in Kauai, get a sweet treat at Ko Bakery. The baked goods and desserts on this island are really something to write home about. Cinnamon rolls, biscotti, and cheesecakes will keep your belly full of the island’s delights. Nothing like you’ve ever tasted.
Waikomo Shave Ice
Because what’s visiting Kauai without indulging in a little shave ice!! Waikomo Shave Ice is the pick-me-up you need to begin or end your day. Shave Ice is a popular sweet treat, so grab your spoon and fill your mouth with the flavors of Kauai.
Beach House Restaurant
A restaurant on the beach? Count us in. Beach House Restaurant gives you a magical oceanfront setting – the cherry on top of the cake. Indulge in Seafood Linguini or Pumpkin Patch Ravioli as you stare into the deep blue waters next to you. The ideal restaurant if you can’t get enough of the beach.
From delicious sweet bites to adrenaline-pumping adventure, Kauai has everything you need for the once-in-a-lifetime vacation you’ve been hoping for. Venture through the several hikes you can do on the island, splash along its incredible beaches, and take some of the most exciting and unique tours that you just can’t find anywhere else.
For more unique fun: Check out the Samoan FireKnife Experience and Workshop – play with fire and admire the technique and culture of this stunning island.