Attractions for Guests of Kauai Vacation Rentals

Kauai, the "Garden Isle," is the oldest of the Hawaiian Islands. The island is famous for its pristine beaches, dramatic cliffs, dense tropical foliage, awe-inspiring canyons, and majestic mountain ranges. Vacationers can experience the awesome natural beauty of the island while enjoying Kauai activities such as swimming, surfing, snorkeling, kayaking, deep-sea fishing, wind surfing, golfing, or just basking in the Pacific sun. Other Kauai adventures include scuba diving, ATV tours, horseback riding, hiking, and whale watching tours. The island's small size makes most Kauai activities accessibly by car within one to two hours.

There are many ways to see the natural spectacle that is Kauai. The dramatic Na Pali Coast, dominating Kauai's northwestern shore, is famous for its spectacular waterfalls, cliffs, and hidden caves that lead to secluded swimming and snorkeling spots. Vacationers staying in Kauai vacation rental homes can see the spectacular Na Pali coastline from an excursion boat or from the air.

Helicopter tours of Kauai, which leave from Princeville on the North Shore and from Lihue on the East Shore, cost about $225 to $250 per person. Kauai helicopter tour companies include Safari Helicopters (800-326-3356), Will Squyres Helicopters (888-245-HELI), Island Helicopters (800-829-5999), Air Kauai (800-972-4666), and Jack Harter Helicopters (888-245-2001).

On Kauai's east side is the famous Wailua Falls on the Wailua River. The falls are best seen from the road, just a short trip from Lihue. You may recognize them from the opening sequence of the television series Fantasy Island.

Visit one of the National Tropical Botanical Gardens for a look at the rich flora of the "Garden Isle." Situated in the picturesque Lawai Valley on the South Shore of Kauai, the McBryde and Allerton Gardens (808-742-2623) encompass more than 252 acres of garden and natural preserve. Visits to Allerton Gardens are by guided tour only. The Limahuli Garden and Preserve (808-826-1053) on the North Shore extends over 1,000 acres in a verdant tropical valley covering three distinct ecological zones.

A popular Kauai North Shore attraction is the Kilauea Lighthouse and Wildlife Refuge. Although the lighthouse no longer operates as a beacon for ships, the promontory offers beautiful vistas and a natural habitat for native birds.

On the west side of the island, vacationers who rent a condo in Kauai can visit one of the most popular Kauai attractions, spectacular Waimea Canyon, known as the "Grand Canyon of the Pacific." Take Waimea Canyon Road from the small town of Waimea and stop at the scenic overlooks along the way. At the very end of the road, past the park headquarters, don't miss the stunning views of the Na Pali Coast from the Pu'uo Kila Lookout. Keep in mind that temperatures in the canyon are about 10 to 15 degrees cooler than those on the coast.

Kauai shopping is a delight with specialty shops offering souvenirs, aloha wear, jewelry, gifts, home accessories, Hawaiian arts and crafts, and more.

Vacationers staying in Kapaa vacation rentals will find a variety of Kauai shops and restaurants at the Kinipopo Shopping Village, the Wailua Shopping Plaza, and the Coconut Marketplace. In the Lihue and the Kalapaki area, visitors renting a Kauai condo will find country stores, galleries, gift shops, and farmers' markets. The Kauai Museum offers a great selection of Hawaiian crafts.

Guests of South Shore Kauai condo rentals will enjoy the Kauai restaurants and shops at the Poipu Shopping Village, offering a wide range of gift choices including Hawaiian handmade paper, unique jewelry, children's items, apparel, candles, and soaps. Several surf shops offer surfwear, swimwear, and water sports equipment. Nearby, Old Koloa Town offers island apparel, Kauai-made crafts, and a selection of eateries.

More great Kauai shopping can be found on the west side of the island in Hanapepe, where the Friday Art Night features a block party atmosphere with art galleries, live music, and refreshments.

A Kauai luau is a great way to enjoy traditional Hawaiian foods along with an exciting show celebrating the song and dance of the varied cultures that make up Hawaii. Popular Kauai luaus include Smith's Garden Luau (808-821-6895) and the Coconut Beach Luau (808-946-1000), both on the east side of the island, and the Pa'ian O' Hanalei beachside luau at the Princeville Resort (877-946-7233) on Kauai's North Shore.

Whether your idea of paradise includes total relaxation or active adventure, Kauai vacations offer the ultimate getaway. Reserve your vacation rental in Kauai today for an unforgettable vacation!