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ValueTips:
Kauai •
10 Free (or Low-Cost) Ways
to Enjoy the Island
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Waimea Canyon
Here are ten fun and interesting ways to enjoy Kauai for free (or nearly
free):
1. Explore the “Grand
Canyon of the Pacific:” Waimea Canyon is a sightseer’s paradise—a mile wide, 10 miles long and
more than 3,500-feet deep. Take in the stunning views from the lookouts
or hike into the crater. The Kalalau Lookout is especially memorable,
offering an unforgettable view of the once-cultivated valley that
descends 4,000-feet to the Pacific blue. After sightseeing, enjoy a
picnic lunch atop the crater in
Kokee State Park.
2. Hike Amid
Rainforests and Lush Valleys: Kauai is a hiker’s dream destination, with spectacular
trails that immerse you in the island’s magnificent verdant wilderness.
Hikes range from short, comfortable walks to challenging treks deep into
hidden, waterfall-laden valleys. A must-do for any serious hiker?
World-famous, 11-mile Kalalau Trail, which runs atop cliffs above the
majestic Napali Coast.
3. See Kauai’s
Cherished Sites:
Prince Kuhio Park was home to Hawaii’s last royal heir, Prince Jonah
Kuhio Kalanianaole (1871-1922), who was widely loved as the “People’s
Prince” for his tireless work on behalf of Hawaii’s people. Located near
Lawa‘i, this historical Park features the foundation of Prince Kuhio’s
home, a royal fishpond, a shrine where offerings were made, and heiau
(ancient place of worship) where the kahuna (priests) meditated and
lived. ~ Alekoko Fishpond was built hundreds of years ago for a young
chief and once covered 40 acres, marked by a 2,700-foot long stone wall.
Located in the Huleia National Wildlife Refuge—habitat for endangered
Hawaiian birds—the fishpond is also known as Menehune Fishpond.
According to legend, it was built by the mythical menehune (little
people) of Hawaii. ~ The Wailua River is a beautifully scenic area; it
was considered sacred in ancient times, reserved for the kings and high
chiefs of Kauai. Near the river’s mouth in Lydgate State Park are the
remains of a heiau that was a refuge for those who had broken a kapu
(taboo).
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4. Enjoy Kauai’s
Culture:
Hawaii is the only state with its own music, language and dance. On
Kauai, the host culture of Hawaii can be enjoyed for free or at little
cost. Many hotels offer free hula performances, torch lighting
ceremonies, and lei-making courses, among other cultural offerings.
Coconut Marketplace in Kapa‘a and Harbor Mall in Lihue stage free hula
shows every Wednesday.
5. A Birdwatcher’s
Paradise: For a nominal entry fee, the Kilauea National Wildlife
Refuge is a uniquely special setting for bird lovers. Framed by
breathtaking views of Kauai’s north shore, Hawaii’s endangered birds are
seen nesting in the cliffs, including the Hawaiian Gallinule, red-footed
boobies, tropicbirds, albatrosses, and frigate birds. Look to the ocean
and you have a good chance of seeing Hawaiian monk seals, green sea
turtles, and Hawaiian spinner dolphins.
Also
See: Hawaii Index |
Big Island |
Kauai |
Lanai |
Molokai |
O'ahu | ValueTips:
Big Island,
Kauai,
Maui,
O'ahu
6. A River Runs
Through It:
The only navigable rivers in Hawaii are found—and enjoyed—on
Kauai.
Rent a kayak and paddle in a leisurely fashion along one of the gentle
rivers bordered by lush, tropical foliage. Or journey by riverboat up
the Wailua River to the famous
Fern Grotto. In this beautiful,
jungle-like setting, a natural amphitheater has been formed creating
remarkable acoustics.
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7. A Garden Isle
Waterfall Spectacular:
Kauai’s waterfalls are a year-round display of nature’s ability to keep
the Garden Isle green and vibrant. In Lihue, one can drive right up to
picturesque Wailua Falls. If the 80-foot waterfalls look vaguely
familiar, that’s because it was a fixture in the opening credits of the
1970s TV show Fantasy Island. ~ In scenic Wailua, Opaeka’a Falls
is the island’s most accessible major waterfall. Cascading into a hidden
pool, it’s a wonderful setting for photos. Opaeka‘a means “rolling
shrimp,” which were once abundant in the stream.
8. Discover Kauai’s
Quaint Towns:
Koloa is a historic 19th century plantation town, site of Hawaii’s first
sugar plantation. Every July, Koloa Plantation Days celebrates the
town’s proud heritage. Visitors will find restaurants and specialty
shops amid some of Hawaii’s oldest buildings. ~ Hanapepe exudes an
old-fashioned small-town appeal, with its plantation-era buildings and
slow-paced lifestyle. Every Friday evening, Hanapepe’s nine galleries
open their doors for a night of artistic enjoyment. Stroll along Main
Street to see fine art and listen to live entertainment.
9. Experience Kauai’s
History: The telling of Kauai’s story can be experienced in
museums that offer intriguing exhibits and artifacts. In Lihue, the
Kauai Museum tells the island’s story from its formation and the arrival
of the first Polynesians to more modern times—the start of the sugar
plantation, for example, and exhibits about the various ethnic cultures
that have contributed to its history. ~ Also in Lihue, Grove Farm was
established as one of Hawaii’s earliest sugar plantations; today it
offers a museum display of Kauai’s heritage that highlights the years
from the old sugar days, through the monarchy, to statheood. ~ Hanalei’s
Waioli Mission became home to the influential Wilcox family in the
1800s. This historic New England-style home was shipped in pieces from
Boston around Cape Horn and today stands as a showcase of koa wood
furniture and other artifacts from that era.
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10. Hit the Beach!
Kauai has more than 50 miles of gorgeous white sand beaches to choose
from—more beach per mile than any other island in Hawaii! Altogether, 43
white sand beaches beckon to wile away the day. Whether enjoying the fun
at Poipu or tossing a towel down in a secluded cove at ‘Anini, Kauai’s
range of beaches matches the island’s diversity. For the more
adventurous, rent a snorkel to observe the wonders of Kauai’s underwater
world.
More Info:
Kauai Visitors Bureau
