Kauai is a pristine paradise and one of the most captivating islands in the Hawaiian archipelago—from its jagged Na Pali coast to picture perfect Hanalei Bay to tumbling Wailua Falls. Kauai was the first Hawaiian island to rise from the Pacific Ocean millions of years ago, and travel to Kauai still evokes that prehistoric wilderness. (It’s no surprise that Steven Spielberg favored the island for his epics: Jurassic Park, Raiders of the Lost Ark, and Hook.) Fifty miles of immaculate, white sand beaches ring the island beckoning to surfers and sun-tanners alike. But not everything is wilderness--luxury resorts abound, as do world-class restaurants and golf courses with spectacular ocean views. Check out the Travel + Leisure Kauai travel guide to get the best hotels, restaurants and sights.
Things Not to Miss in Kauai
• Hike the sweeping Kalalau Trail along the Na Pali Coast
• Take a helicopter ride over Waimea Canyon State Park
• Munch on a shave ice from one of the beachside food trucks
• Try surfing at Poipu Beach or Hanalei Bay
• Enjoy lunch in the charming old towns of Hanapepe and Koloa
• Swim at Wailua Falls
When to Go to Kauai
The weather in Kauai is pretty consistently hot and humid year-round with temperatures sitting between 70°F to 85°F. High tourist season is during the winter holidays from December to March. However, the driest and most pleasant seasons in Kauai are the spring and fall, when the tourists have gone home, and prices are cheaper. It’s best to visit Kauai during April-June or September-November.
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