Introduction to Kauai

Soft tropical air, sunrise bird song, essences of ginger and plumeria, sparkling waterfalls -- Kauai, 90 miles from Oahu, is an island paradise and the oldest in the Hawaiian chain. Moody rainforests, majestic cliffs, emerald valleys, swaying palm trees, and spectacular golden beaches await. You'll encounter quiet spots in the forest where you can listen to the rain dance on the leaves, and lazy days that end with the sun sinking into the Pacific amid a glorious tropical blaze.

Things to Do

With 50 miles of beaches, Kauai's possibilities run the gamut, including swimming in the gentle waves at Hanalei Beach, sunning on the golden sands at the wild Polihale State Park, or riding the waves on the North Shore. Inland, Hawaiian history unfolds at Kauai Museum and the archaeological sites at Wailua River State Park. Adventurers should explore the reddish lava beds of Waimea Canyon, the Grand Canyon of the Pacific. Stop by the road to view the canyon, hike down into it, or swoop through it by helicopter.

Shopping

At Kauai's small, tasteful boutiques, you can satisfy your yen for shopping in concentrated spurts around the island. Seek out Niihau-shell leis, woodwork, and coconut products in downtown Lihue, or rummage through the antique picture frames, lacquer boxes, beaded bags, and jewelry emporiums in Poipu Shopping Village. For more stylish and sophisticated shops and galleries, head to mainstay Kong Lung on the North Shore, or hunt for bargains in the thrift stores in Kilauea.

Nightlife and Entertainment

In Lihue, the hotels and resorts are the primary players for music, dancing, and bars -- after sunset. Sip mai tais and listen to live jazz with sunset views in Poipu, or check out the Poipu Shopping Village for slack-key, reggae and a free Tahitian dance performance every Tuesday. The Coconut Coast towns of Wailua, Waipouli, and Kapaa offer sunset torch-lighting ceremonies, with music and dancing. Head for Coconut Marketplace for a free hula show.

Restaurants and Dining

Kauai offers a world of ethnic cuisines, with Asian, Polynesian, Mexican, Central American, and European. Enjoy zesty Italian in a sumptuous setting on North Shore, with a view of the Waialeale waterfalls, or splash out for seared ahi while gazing at the ocean in Poipu. Away from the beach, join the locals for a tasty pork, beef, or chicken plate-lunch at a counter in Lihue. Don't leave Kauai without trying a refreshing shave ice, found at roadside stores and vans.