PARKS

Kaua'i has some of the most beautiful parks in all of the Hawaiian islands.

Ha'ena State Park - 6.7 a.

This pretty little park is located across the street from the Maniholo Dry Cave. There are full facilities here and camping is allowed with a permit. The park is located near the end of Kuhio Highway (Highway 560) approximately a mile before the road ends at Ke'e beach.

Koke'e State Park - 4,345.0 a.

One of several sweeping vistas at Koke'e State Park

Past Waimea Canyon State Park and at the end of Highway 550, lies Koke'e State Park, Kauai's hiking mecca. At the 18 mile marker (and within a short walk), the park affords expansive views of the lush Kalalau Valley from a 4000 feet elevation lookout. The Kalalau Valley is the largest on the entire island and the colors are resplendent with vivid hues of green and red. No matter how many fantastic photos we take of this valley, they never seem to translate the immense beauty that it projects in person. A definite "must see". As always, the earlier you go, the better chances you have of viewing the entire valley before the clouds roll in. The park also hosts the famous Alakai Swamp Trail where many rare and endangered native Hawaiian plants exist. This trail consists of an fantastic hike through an incredibly unique ecosystem. We strongly suggest a visit to the Koke'e Museum as well. Here, you can see informative displays, books, maps and various local arts and crafts. The staff is quite knowledgeable and is able to answer most questions concerning the local flora and fauna. Picnicking and camping is allowed here and the park also has a lodge (Koke'e Lodge - 335-6061) where you can get a bite to eat.

Hiker at start of Kalalau Trail

Na Pali Coast State Park - 6,175.0 a.

This park is home to the world renowned Kalalau Trail, an 11-mile trek that follows the northern Kauai coast. The hike is strenuous and cad be extremely slippery if there has been recent precipitation (which is often). So, good footwear is recommended. Most of the foot traffic is within the first two miles to Hanakapi'ai Beach/Valley (see Hike below), since day use permits are required for hikers proceeding beyond Hanakapi'ai Valley. Several commercial boating companies provide day expeditions to various areas along the trail. Helicopters are also available for aerial sight seeing. Although they allow for views that would otherwise be impossible to see, we find the "chop-chop-chop" of the whirring blades an annoying sound which continually interrupts the otherwise tranquil beauty. There is no drinking water available and all water must be treated. The trailhead is at end of Kuhio Highway (Hwy. 560) near Ke'e Beach.

Polihale State Park - 137.7 a.

This state park is located at the end of an old, dirt cane road and passage can be difficult if heavy rain showers have occurred. If a visitor is prudent, problems getting to Polihale are well worth the trouble, as you will be rewarded with an expansive beach and stunning Pali's literally jutting out of the north end of the beach. Picnicking, tent camping and trailer camping are allowed. See our Southwest Beaches for more detailed information on this area.

Wailua River State Park - 1,092.6 a.

Consisting of a variety of natural and cultural sites, a visit to Wailua River State Park can certainly take up the greater part of a day or two. Skip Smith's Tropical Paradise Cruise (1+ hr for $16) and rent your own kayak at one of the many businesses near the mouth of the Wailua. Then, under your own power and your own time frame, you can see the Fern Grotto, an unusual fern covered cave. Be sure to stay to the right side, as boat cruises and water skiers can be frequent interruptions to the otherwise quiet riparian zone. When the river eventually splits, take the right fork to an island where a short trail will lead you to a beautiful waterfall and pool.

Cultural sites in the area include the Wailua Complex of Heiau (located on Kuamo'o Road) which consists of places of worship and refuge, birthstones and a bellstone which was struck in ancient times to signal the birth of a new chief. Continue up Kuamo'o Road to the 'Opaeka'a Falls Lookout where you can view scenic falls of the same name.

Famous Wailua Falls (seen in the opening credits of Fantasy Island) can be viewed by returning to Highway 56 and taking Ma'alo Road. The falls cascade over 80 feet and are quite incredible if recent rains have fortified the flow.

Waimea Canyon State Park - 1,866.4 a.

Beautiful overlooks and sweeping vistas of the deep and colorful gorge can be had at this state treasure. Several nature trails are available and views of Ni'ihau Island (the Forbidden Island) can be seen.

BIKING

With steep cliffs, slippery trails, and dense foliage, mountain biking in Kaua'i can be challenging...even for the best technical riders. Be prepared to "hike your bike" A LOT and be covered from head to toe in "red" mud. Also, don't forget to bring your tools and plenty of food and water (thank heavens for Camelbacks). Mountain biking in Kaua'i is NOT for the faint of heart. But, for the courageous, your efforts will be well rewarded with surreal vistas and peaceful rides through tropical forests.

Moalepe Trail - Wailua, Kaua'i (2.5 miles one-way)

How to get there: From Kuhio Highway 56, turn onto Kuamo'o Road (Hwy 580) approximately 2.75 miles. Take a right onto Kamalua Road (Hwy 581). Proceed to the end and then turn left onto Olohena Road. Continue to the trail head where Olohena Road ends and turns into Waipouli Rd.

Level: Beginner

This trail intersects Kuilau Trail at the top and is one of the best ways to access the Kaulau trail. The trail has several places where hiking your bike will be necessary due to quagmires created by horse traffic. Views are fantastic and the trail can be extended by tacking on the Kuilau Trail.

Powerline Trail - Princeville, Kaua'i (13 miles)

How to get there: From east side of Kaua'i on Hwy 56, turn up Hwy 580 onto Kuamo'o Road which is approximately 6 miles to the Keahua Arboretum. The trail head is .1 mile past the river crossing. From the Princeville side (north) turn at Kapa'ka Street and proceed aprox 1.8 miles to the trail head.

Level: Intermediate

This is a difficult and very technical trail with a lot of abrasive lava rock and plenty of "hike your bike" sections too. Caution is advised while navigating the down hill sections, especially after a hard rain. Fantastic views at the top, which include Wai'ale'ale (the wettest place on earth). Riders are rewarded with a long downhill ride to Princeville.

Kuilau Ridge Trail - Wailua, Kaua'i (2.2 miles one-way)

How to get there: From Kuhio Highway 56, turn onto Kuamo'o Road (Hwy 580) for approximately 6 miles. The trail head is on the right.

Level: Intermediate

This trail is steep and consists of several downhill sections which make it practically impassable when wet. However the views of the valleys are incredible and the trail can be quite fun when it hasn't rained recently.

Kuamo'o-Nounou Trail - Wailua, Kaua'i (2.3 miles)

How to get there: From Highway 56, turn onto Kuamo'o Road (Hwy 580). Continue approximately 2.3 miles to trail head. There is plenty of parking along Kuamo'o Road.

Level: Intermediate

Another technical trail with a lot of exposed rocks and roots. Great views can be had from several spots along the trail.

Kalepa Ridge Trail - Hanama'ulu, Kauai (3 miles on-way)

How to get there: Off of Highway 56, approximately .4 miles up from the stop light heading into Lihu'e turn right on Hulei Road. There is a school opposite this road. Follow the road until you reach a crossroad. The entrance is at the road with the cable across it. Ride up this road approximately .5 mile to the trail entrance, which is off to the right at the hairpin.

Unfortunately, this trail has become very eroded by irresponsible dirt bikers, but the views are fantastic!

For more information on bike rentals, trips and trails in Kaua'i, please visit the following shops:

Pedal 'n Paddle
Ching Young Village
P.O. Box 1413
Hanalei, Kaua'i 96714
Phone: 808-826-9069
http://pedalnpaddle.com

Activity Warehouse
788 Kuhio Hwy.
Kapa'a, Kaua'i
Phone: 808-822-4000
http://www.travelhawaii.com/kauai_act.php

Ray's Rentals & Activities
4-1345 Kuhio Hwy.
Kapa'a, Kaua'i
Phone: 808-822-5700

Outfitters Kauai
2827A Po'ipu Rd.
PO Box 1149
Po'ipu, Kaua'i 96756
Phone: 808-742-9667
http://www.outfitterskauai.com

Kauai Cycle and Tour
1379 Kuhio Hwy.
Kapa'a, Kaua'i 96746
Phone: 808-821-2115
http://www.bikehawaii.com/kauaicycle

GOLF

Kauai's tropical climate is perfect for keeping things lush and green, so it is no wonder that some of the most lovely and challenging courses in the world are located here. Many of the courses offer reduced rates beginning at noon and some continue to drop the greens fees the later the tee time is. If you're willing to play in the "heat of the day", you can save yourself up to almost $100 a round.

Princeville Resort
Prince Golf & Country Club
http://www.princeville.com/prince_course.html
5-3900 Kuhio Hwy
Princeville, Kauai 96722
Phone: (808) 826-5000

Princeville Resort
Makai Golf Course
http://www.princeville.com/makai_course.html
3080 Lei papa Rd
Princeville, Kauai 96722
Phone: (808) 826-3580

Kiahuna Golf Club
http://www.kiahunagolf.com
2545 Kiahuna Plantation Dr.
Koloa, Kauai 96756
Phone: (808) 742-9595

Po'ipu Bay Resort Golf Course
http://kauai.hyatt.com/property/sportsrelax/golf
1571 Po'ipu Road
Koloa, Kauai 96756
Phone: 808-742-8711

Puakea Golf Course
http://www.puakeagolf.com
4150 Nuhou Rd.
Lihu'e, Kauai 96766
Phone: (808) 245-8756
Toll Free: (866) 773-5554

Kauai Lagoons Resort Golf Course
http://www.kauailagoonsgolf.com
Kiele Course
3351 Hoolaulea Way
Lihu'e, Kauai
Phone: (808) 241-6000

Kauai Lagoons Resort Golf Course
http://www.kauailagoonsgolf.com
Mokihana Course
3351 Hoolaulea Way
Lihu'e, Kauai
Phone: (808) 241-6000

Wailua Golf Course
3-5351Kuhio Hwy
Kapa'a, Kauai 96746
Phone: (808) 241-6666

Kukuiolono Golf Course
854 Pu'u Road
Kalaheo, Kauai
Phone: (808) 332-9151

HIKING

There are entire websites devoted to hiking in Kaua'i as well as several terrific publications providing excellent maps and descriptions for the dozens of trails that are available. If your time on Kaua'i is limited, and you're looking for some of the best trails, below are a few of our favorites.

Nounou Mountain Trail - East (Sleeping Giant)

Nounou Mountain (Sleeping Giant)

Vista at end of Nounou Mountain Trail

This trail is located along a mountain ridge between Wailua and Kapa'a. From a distance, the mountain looks like the figure of a man sleeping on his back. Several Hawaiian legends revolve around Nounou Mountain. One is that Nounou, a giant, ate constantly and the villagers of Wailua grew weary of feeding him. So, they tricked him into eating vast quantities of rocks that were hidden in fish and poi. Eventually, the giant was so full that he fell into a deep sleep and, to this day, has yet to wake up.

To get to the trailhead, drive north from Lihu'e on Highway 56 for approximately 8 miles. Turn left onto Haleilio Road and continue until the road begins to curve to the left. There will be a marked trailhead on your right next to a road that passes a Department of Water pump. There is parking on the shoulder across the road.

Begin the hike by following a switch-backed trail for approximately a mile (there are distance markers at 0.25 mile intervals) and 800 feet of elevation gain to a set of picnic tables. Note that shortly before the picnic tables a trail will join in from the right (bear left). This is an access trail from one of two alternative trailheads. Continue with a faint trail past the small meadow with the picnic tables for another 0.1 mile to the top. The summit itself is marked with a concrete block and is slightly overgrown. The trail can be quite slippery if recent rains have occurred. But, the views at the end of the trail are incredible and include a panoramic vista that reaches all the way to the Hoary Head Range (including Queen Elizabeth's profile, if you know where to look!).

Alakai Swamp Trail

Alakai Swamp trail

Kilohana Vista with views of Hanalei Bay at end of Alakai Swamp trail

The Alakai'i Swamp, the highest swamp in the world, is located in Koke'e State Park near Mt. Wai'ale'ale, the wettest place on earth. Many of the plants and animals found in the swamp are found no where else in the world.

This trail is about 8 miles round trip and is best started early in the morning before the clouds roll in. Portions of the trail consist of a boardwalk, but much of the trail is often wet, VERY slippery and quite muddy. If you are not concerned about permanently stained clothes, we suggest foregoing anything light colored.....there's a reason why they use the red dirt of Kauai to dye t-shirts!

The trail starts at a parking and turnaround area 1/4 mile north of the Na Pali Kona Forest Reserve entrance sign. Lock any valuables in your trunk, bring plenty of water, food, a hat, sunscreen and wet weather clothing, then start up Mohihi Camp 10 Road. The trail continues along a ridge line with breathtaking views of the Na Pali coast. It then breaks from the ridge and begins to descend into the swamp. It is important to stay on marked trails, not only for safety, but to minimize damage to the fragile swamp ecosystem. The trail will eventually end at amazing Kilohana vista on the edge of Wainiha Pali. From here, on a clear day, you can see all the way to Hanalei Bay.

Caution: Please be sure to clean your shoes before you begin this hike so that introduction of foreign species to the ecosystem can be minimized.

Awa'awa'puhi Trail

This hike, also located in Koke'e State Park, offers magnificent views of the Nualolo and Awa'awa'puhi valleys. The beginning of the trail is fairly broad and actually ascends for a short while before beginning a long and continuous descent. Don't forget to stop at the Koke'e Museum to get a directory BEFORE departing, as there a several places labeled along the trail with corresponding numbers. You will pass through thick tree groves and miniature forests of fiddlehead ferns. You may even see feral goats feeding along the steep hillsides. A handrail marks the rim of the cliff (2500 feet above the ocean), and on a clear day, stunning north coast views can be had. If you're lucky to arrive when the sun is out, take pictures FAST. Cloud cover can rapidly appear from out of nowhere and soon the sweeping vistas are nothing more than dense fog in front of you with the annoying sound of helicopters "chop-chop-chopping" overhead. The vista is a good place to eat some food and prepare yourself for the hike back.

Kalalau Trail (Ke'e Beach to Hanakapi'ai)

Hanakapi'ai Valley

The Kalalau Trail provides the only land access to this part of the rugged coast. The entire 11 mile trail traverses 5 valleys before ending at Kalalau Beach where it is blocked by the palis.

Originally built in the late 1800s, portions of the trail were rebuilt in the 1930s. A similar foot trail linked earlier Hawaiian settlements along the coastline.

The trailhead begins where Highway 560 ends, near Haena, on the North Shore of Kaua'i. Ke'e Beach, a beautiful little beach is also located close by. The Ke'e Beach to Hanakapi'ai section (2 miles) is a popular day hike for most hikers. The first half mile will reward you with excellent views of the coast. The summer sand beach at Hanakapi'ai is a popular destination for day hikers. Swimming or wading can be dangerous here. The surf and rip currents are variable and often extremely treacherous, but worst in winter when high surf conditions prevail. DROWNINGS OCCUR HERE REGULARLY!

An unmaintained 2-mile trail into Hanakapi'ai Valley leads to a waterfall. After crossing the stream about a mile up the valley, the trail becomes more difficult as it meanders over rocks and fallen trees. The upper half of this trail should be hiked only in good weather to avoid dangerous flash floods and falling rocks.

Kuilau Ridge Trail

Picnic Area at Kuilau Ridge Trail

This beautiful 4.2 mile (round trip) hike has a gradual incline that takes you through island forests, various tropical undergrowth, and the chance to view avian species of all kinds.

To get to the trailhead, take Highway 56 to Highway 580, just north of the Wailua river. Turn inland onto 580 and continue on past the University of Hawaii at Manoa, Kauai Research station. The trailhead is on the left side and parking can be found at Keahua Arboretum.

Eventually, you'll reach a clearly with some picnic tables. This is a good place to each lunch and take in the vistas before proceeding. You'll see Mt. Wai'ale'ale in the distance and brief glimpses of Kapa'a and Lihu'e on this hike as well.

Canyon Trail

The Canyon Trail is 3.4 mile roundtrip trail located in Koke'e State Park. The trail spurs off of Cliff Trail which is a short, easy trail leading to an overlook of Waimea Canyon. From here, you may see feral goats clinging precariously to the cliff walls. The trail starts at the Halemanu trailhead right off Koke'e Road. Proceed down the dirt Halemanu Road, and end at the Cliff Trail overlook, for a pleasant two hour round-trip stroll. The more ambitious can spur off to the Canyon Trail.

The most popular, is a scenic trail spurring off the Cliff Trail to follow the north rim of Waimea Canyon. Half-way through, picnic at Waipo'o Falls. The trail ends at Kumuwela Lookout with a beautiful view that cross-cuts the island through Waimea Canyon, from the mountain to the ocean.

HORSEBACK RIDING

In 1803, Richard Cleveland brought the first horses to the Hawaiian Islands on a brig named the "Lelia Byrd". Eventually, these horses would become the working companions of Hawaii's cowboys called the "Paniolo". Hawaii's paniolo history is a rich story of hard work in rugged conditions, ingenuity, perseverance, love and respect for the land, and the unmatched relationship between paniolo and their horses. Today, these same values are nurtured within the rural ranching lifestyle that is so much a part of the state. Time-honored arts of Hawaiian saddlery, feather lei and lauhala weaving have been joined by new ranch adventures and ecotourism.

Are you ready to explore paths rich in botanical treasures, winding along peaceful streams or rugged trails along canyon walls? These experiences and more can be had through the following ranches listed below.

CJM Stables
P.O. Box 1346
Koloa, HI 96756
Phone: (808) 742-6096
Fax: (808) 742-6015
Website: http://www.cjmstables.com/

Silver Falls Ranch
P.O. Box 692
Kilauea, HI 96754
Phone: (808) 828-6718
Fax: (808) 828-0131
Email: Info@SilverFallsRanch.com
Website: http://www.silverfallsranch.com/

Esprit De Corps Riding Academy
Kapa'a, Kauai, Hawaii 96746
Phone: (808) 822-4688
Fax (808) 822-2309
Website: http://www.kauaihorses.com/

Princeville Ranch Stables
P.O. Box 888
Hanalei, HI 96714
Phone: (808) 826-6777
Phone: (808) 826-7473
Fax: (808) 826-7210
Email: pstable@aloha.net
Website: http://princevilleranch.com/

KAYAKING

Like everything else, kayaking in Kaua'i is pure heaven. Whether you want to experience the Wailua river's luscious riparian vegetation and a short hike to the Secret Falls at the end (which aren't so "secret" as there are plenty of people) or an all day excursion on the Na Pali coast where ocean caves, pristine coral reefs and secluded beaches are waiting to be explored.... the following businesses can offer guided tours and/or rental equipment.

Kayak Hanalei
P.O. Box 90
Hanalei, HI. 96714
Phone: (808) 826-1881
Website: http://kayakhanalei.com/

Kayak Adventures, Inc.
P.O. Box 223184
Princeville, HI  96722
Phone: 808-826-9340
Fax: 808-826-4243

Outfitters Kauai
2827A Po'ipu Rd
PO Box 1149
Po'ipu Beach, HI 96756
Phone: (808)742-9667
Toll free: (888)742-9887
Fax: (808)742-8842
Email: info@outfitterskauai.com
Website: http://www.outfitterskauai.com/

Kayak Wailua
Phone: (808) 822-3388
Email: kayak@kayakwailua.com
Website: http://kayakwailua.com/

SCUBA

Hawaiian Monk Seal during a dive

Scuba is a fantastic way to experience the beauty and diversity of Kauai's reefs. Dive companies operate year round and cater to both beginner and certified divers. The best shore dives are typically at Tunnels Beach, where divers can explore the maze of underwater archways, and at Old Koloa Landing, where sea turtles and eels are commonly seen.  Reachable only by boat, are the Na Pali Coast and Ni'ihau. Diving the Na Pali coastline offers the opportunity to hear the call of humpback whales during their annual migration and Blue Dolphin Charters is the ONLY boat that offers dives off the Na Pali coast. Ni'ihau, known as the "forbidden island", is about 90 minutes by boat from Port Allen.  Ni'ihau dives offer excellent visibility with common sightings of monk seals, sharks and rays.

The following dive operators are rated the highest on the island and will provide recommendations based on diver ability, weather and ocean conditions:

Blue Dolphin Charters
P.O. Box 869
Ele'ele, Kauai 96705
Toll Free: 877-511-1311
Phone: 808-335-5553
Website: http://www.kauaiboats.com/

Sea Sports Divers
2827 Po'ipu Rd.
Koloa, Kauai 96756
Website: http://www.seasportdivers.com/

Fathom Five
3450 Po'ipu Road
P.O. Box 907
Koloa, Kauai 96756
Website: http://www.fathomfive.com/

SURFING

No one knows exactly when "stand-up" surfing started, but there is no doubt that surfing was the sport of Hawaiian kings and queens. Captain King (from the Cook's Voyages) was the first Western man to describe surfing in one of his journal entries. Through the centuries, monarchs perfected the art of "he'e nalu" (wave-sliding) and Queen Kaahumanu, the Queen Regent and favorite wife of Kamehameha the Great, was an enthusiastic surfer. Thankfully, surfing is now enjoyed all over the world by anyone brave and talented enough to get on a board.

With an average ocean temperature of 75 degrees and perfect waves, Kaua'i is a great place for surfers of all abilities. If you would like to learn how to surf while visiting Kaua'i, a good place to start is the Kaua'i Surf School. If you already know how to surf or body board, check with the local surf shops to see which locations and conditions are best for you.

We also suggest visiting the information packed Surfer News Network website which provides everything imaginable concerning surfing conditions in Hawai'i. For $24 a year, they even have live streaming surf cams of the major beaches on Oahu.

The Kauai Surf School
P.O. Box 220
Koloa, Kauai 96756
Phone: (808) 332-7411
Email: kauaisurfschool@hotmail.com
Website: http://www.kauaisurfschool.com/

Kai Kane Hanalei
P.O. Box 1436
Hanalei, Kauai 96714
Phone: (808) 826-5594

Kauai Water Ski & Surf Co
4-356 Kuhhio Hwy
Kapa'a, Kauai
Phone: (808) 82-3574

Nukumoi Beach & Surf Shop
2080 Hoone Rd
Koloa, Kauai 96756
Phone: (808) 742-8019

Progressive Expressions Inc
Old Koloa Town
Koloa, Kauai 96756
Phone: (808) 742-6041

Seasport Divers
2827 Po'ipu Rd.
Koloa, Kauai 96756
Website: http://www.seasportdivers.com

TENNIS

The Kauai County Parks and Recreation Department, 4444 Rice St., Suite 150, Lihu'e (808-241-6670 ), has a list of the nine county tennis courts around the island, all of which are free and open to the public. Private courts that are open to the public include:

Kauai Marriott Resort and Beach Club
http://marriott.com/property/propertyPage/LIHHI
Kalapaki Beach
3610 Rice Street
Lihu'e, Kauai 96766
Phone: (808) 245-5050

Hanalei Bay Resort Tennis Club
http://www.hanaleibayresort.com
5380 Honoiki Road
P.O. Box 220
Hanalei, Kauai 96714
Phone: (808) 826-6522

Hyatt Regency Kauai Resort & Spa - Tennis Gardens
http://kauai.hyatt.com
1571 Po'ipu Road
Koloa, Kauai 96756
Phone: (808) 742-1234

Radisson Kauai Beach Resort
4331 Kauai Beach Drive
Lihu'e, Kaua'i 96766-9159
Phone: (808) 245-1955

Kiahuna Tennis Club
2290 Po'ipu Road
Po'ipu, Kauai 96756
Phone: (808) 742-9533