Kauai

Facts Kauai

• Kauai is the oldest and, at around 1,430 square kilometers, the fourth largest island in Hawaii.
• The island boasts a diverse landscape with spectacular mountain ranges, lush rainforests, deeply carved valleys and impressive coastlines.
• Kauai is home to several nature reserves, including Kokee State Park, the Alakaʻi Wilderness Preserve and Hanalei National Wildlife Refuge , which help protect the island’s unique flora and fauna.
• Popular attractions include Waimea Canyon, the breathtaking Napali Coast with its steep cliffs and secluded beaches and the famous Hanalei beach.
• The economy of Kauai is mainly influenced by tourism, agriculture (especially sugar cane and pineapple) and the military bases.
• The more than 70,000 inhabitants of the island are culturally diverse and are made up of native Hawaiians, immigrants from various parts of the world and mainland Americans.
• A car is definitely recommended for exploring Kauai. However, as only 10% of the land mass is accessible, sightseeing flights by helicopter or smaller aircraft are also offered in Lihue.
• Kauai is often used as a backdrop for film and television productions. Various Hollywood films (Jurassic Park, King Kong, Indiana Jones, The Tributes of Panem – Catching Fire, South Pacific, Pirates of the Caribbean, Avatar, The Descendants) and TV series (Lost) have been filmed here.
• The rain on Kauai is often of particular intensity and beauty, with the north side typically receiving more rain than the south side. The area around Mount Waialeale (Waiʻaleʻale) in Kokee State Park in the middle of the island is considered one of the rainiest places on earth.

Travel time Kauai

The tropical climate on Kauai is generally pleasant all year round, with temperatures rarely dropping below 20 degrees Celsius (68 degrees Fahrenheit). However, the main tourist season is often from December to March and from June to September.

Events Kauai

All holidays as in Hawaii and the United States of America.

December – April: Whale season

Lihue (Līhuʻe) is a city on the island of Kauai. It is the capital of Kauai County and is located on the southeast coast of the island.

Sights & Facts

• Lihue is an important commercial and business center for the island of Kauai.
• The island’s only airport, Lihue Airport (IATA code: LIH), is also located here.
• The city itself offers a mix of local culture, history and modern amenities.
• Attractions include historic sites such as the Kilohana Estate , which showcases 19th century plantation architecture, and the Kauai Museum , which provides an insight into the island’s history and culture.
• The scenic beauty around Lihue is impressive, with breathtaking beaches, lush vegetation and spectacular views of the sea.
• Popular activities in the area include hiking, water sports such as surfing and snorkeling as well as boat trips along the coast.

The Wailua River is an important river on the island of Kauai. It stretches for about 32 km from its source in the central mountains of the island to its mouth in Wailua Bay on the east coast.

Sights & Facts

• The river is not only scenic, but also of cultural and historical importance to the indigenous people of Hawaii.
• The Wailua River and the surrounding valley offer a variety of outdoor activities and attractions.
• One of the most famous sights along the river is the Fern Grotto , a natural cave with hanging ferns and an amphitheater-like entrance that is often used for weddings and other events.
• The Wailua River and its valley are also rich in historical sites, including ancient Hawaiian fishponds, temples and petroglyphs.
• Among the most famous sites are the Wailua Complex of Heiau (Hikinaakalã Heiau) , a series of religious sites dedicated to the Hawaiian deity Kane, and the Kamokila Hawaiian Village , a replica of a traditional Hawaiian village.
• In addition, the Wailua River offers numerous recreational opportunities such as kayaking, stand-up paddle boarding, fishing and hiking in the surrounding valleys and mountains.

Wailua Falls is one of the most famous and impressive waterfalls on the island of Kauai in Hawaii. They are located in the Wailua River State Park near the town of Lihue.

Sights & Facts

• The Wailua Falls plunge about 25 meters over a steep cliff into a deep pool.
• They are not only famous for their natural beauty, but also for their cultural significance.
• The waterfalls have served as the backdrop for various films and TV series, including the famous TV series “Fantasy Island”.
• Wailua Falls is easily accessible from the road and there is a viewpoint from which visitors can enjoy spectacular views of the majestic falls and the surrounding landscape.
• There are also hiking trails nearby where you can explore the area further and view the waterfalls from different angles.

Kapaa (Kapaʻa) is a lively town on the east coast of the island of Kauai in Hawaii. It is located roughly halfway between the northern and southern tip of the island and is a popular destination for tourists.

Sights & Facts

• Kapaa Beach Park a is a picturesque beach park. It is ideal for swimming, snorkeling and sunbathing.
• The Old Town Kapaa Art Walk is an artistic tour where local artists and artisans present their works in various galleries, stores and public places. It usually takes place on the first Saturday of the month.
• Another spectacular waterfall near Kapaa besides the Wailua Falls is the Opaekaa Falls (ʻŌpaekaʻa Falls) .
• A popular activity in Kapaa is cycling along the coastal road, which offers breathtaking views of the sea and the surrounding landscape.
• Kapaa regularly hosts farmers’ and craft markets where visitors can discover local products, handicrafts and culinary delights.

The Kilauea Lighthouse (Kīlauea Lighthouse) is a historic lighthouse on the north coast of Kauai. It stands on a cliff called Kilauea Point and offers a breathtaking view of the ocean and the surrounding landscape.

Sights & Facts

• The lighthouse was built in 1913 and served as a navigational aid for ships approaching the north coast of Kauai until 1976.
• Today, the Kilauea Lighthouse is a popular tourist attraction and a symbol of Kauai’s maritime history.
• Visitors can tour the lighthouse grounds, which are managed by the US Fish and Wildlife Service.
• During the whale season, this is an excellent opportunity for whale watching, as the waters off Kauai are a popular spot for humpback whales.
• The surroundings of Kilauea Point are also impressive, with steep cliffs, lush vegetation and spectacular views of the sea.
• There are also hiking trails where visitors can explore the natural beauty of the region.
• The rocky island of Moku’Ae’Ae lies about a mile north of the coast in front of the lighthouse. The Moku‘Ae‘Ae Rock Islet Seabird Sanctuary is a nature reserve known for its important role as a breeding ground for seabirds.

Hanalei is a picturesque village on the north coast of the island of Kauai in Hawaii. It is located in a breathtaking bay, surrounded by green mountains and lush vegetation. Hanalei is known for its natural beauty, relaxed atmosphere and rich cultural history.

Sights & Facts

• Hanalei Bay is a beautiful beach that invites you to swim, surf, paddle and relax. Hanalei Bay is known for its gentle waves and clear, turquoise waters.
• Hanalei Pier is a historic jetty that is ideal for fishing, sunset watching and photography. From here you have a wonderful view of the surrounding mountains and the bay.
• Ching Young Village is a charming shopping district with stores, restaurants and galleries where visitors can discover local handicrafts and culinary delights.
• The Hanalei Valley Lookout is a viewpoint along the road that offers spectacular views of the Hanalei Valley and the surrounding mountains. The view of the terraced rice fields in the valley is particularly impressive.
• Hanalei is also rich in cultural events and activities, including Hawaiian music and dance performances as well as traditional festivals and celebrations.

Tunnels Beach, also known as Makua Beach, is a beautiful beach on the north shore of Kauai. It is located near the village of Hanalei and is known for its natural beauty, turquoise waters and fantastic snorkeling and diving opportunities.

Sights & Facts

• The name “Tunnels Beach” is derived from the reefs that line the beach and form tunnels and caves under the water.
• These reef formations are a paradise for snorkelers and divers and are home to a wide variety of marine life, including colorful fish, sea turtles and even the occasional manta ray.
• The clear water and the rich underwater world make Tunnels Beach one of the best snorkeling and diving spots on Kauai.
• Tunnels Beach also offers wonderful opportunities for sunbathing, picnicking and relaxing on the beach. The surroundings are picturesque and peaceful, ideal for a relaxing day by the sea.
• Although the conditions are not always ideal, Tunnels Beach also attracts surfers, especially in the winter months when the waves are bigger.
• The dramatic backdrop of Tunnels Beach with its high cliffs, lush forests and azure waters makes it a popular destination for nature lovers and photographers.
• Adjacent to Tunnels Beach are other beautiful beaches: Kepuhi Beach , Wainiha Beach and Lumaha’i Beach .

The Kalalau Trail is a legendary hiking trail along the Napali Coast on Kauai. It is considered one of the most beautiful and challenging hiking trails in the world and leads through some of Kauai’s most spectacular landscapes, including steep cliffs, deep valleys, lush rainforests and secluded beaches.

Sights & Facts

• The Kalalau Trail is approx. 22 miles (approx. 35 km) long. It is demanding and requires a good level of fitness and hiking experience.
• The path is often narrow and rocky, and in some places steep slopes and streams have to be crossed.
• Hikers who wish to walk the entire Kalalau Trail require a special permit, which must be reserved in advance. This serves to control visitor numbers and protect the sensitive ecosystem along the trail.
• Along the Kalalau Trail, hikers are rewarded with spectacular views of the Napali Coast, steep cliffs, deep valleys and secluded beaches such as Hanakapiai Beach (Hanakāpīʻai Beach) and Kalalau Beach . Waterfalls and lush rainforests line the way.
• Most hikers plan to hike the Kalalau Trail in two or more days and camp at selected spots along the way. There are state-run campsites in Hanakoa Valley and on Kalalau Beach, but these must be reserved.
• In addition to the Kalalau Trail, the trail to Hanakapiai Falls (Hanakāpīʻai Falls) is also a well-known hiking trail on Kauai.

Kee Beach (Ke’e Beach) is a picturesque beach on the north coast of Kauai. It is located at the end of the Kuhio Highway, which runs along the spectacular Napali Coast. Kee Beach is known for its natural beauty, turquoise waters and tranquil atmosphere.

Sights & Facts

• Kee Beach offers excellent snorkeling opportunities, especially along the reef that surrounds the bay. Visitors can discover a variety of marine life such as colorful fish, corals and occasionally even sea turtles.
• Although conditions can vary depending on the weather and tides, swimming at Kee Beach is usually safe, especially in the summer months when the water is calmer.
• Kee Beach is the starting point for the Kalalau Trail.
• The beach is also a great place to watch the sun set over the Pacific. The dramatic backdrop of the Napali Coast provides an impressive backdrop for this natural spectacle.

Waimea Canyon is one of the most outstanding natural attractions on Kauai. It is often referred to as the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific” and offers a spectacular landscape with deep gorges, colorful rock formations and lush vegetation.

Sights & Facts

• Waimea Canyon is located in the west of Kauai and stretches over a length of about 22 kilometers. It can be reached via Waimea Canyon Drive, a picturesque road that leads from the coast to the viewpoint in the canyon.
• The canyon is up to 1,097 meters deep and was formed many millions of years ago by the erosion of the Waimea River and geological activities such as volcanic eruptions.
• The word “Waimea” comes from the Hawaiian language and has a meaning that refers to the land and nature. It is often translated as “red water” or “dried up water”.
• Several viewpoints along Waimea Canyon Drive offer spectacular views of the canyon and the surrounding landscape. The Waimea Canyon Lookout and Pu’u Hinahina viewpoints are particularly popular.
• Waimea Canyon offers a variety of hiking trails for all levels of experience. The most popular routes include the Canyon Trail , the Awa’awapuhi Trail and the Kukui Trail .
• Waimea Canyon impresses with its variety of colors and textures, from the red and orange rock walls to the lush green forests that surround the canyon. The scenery is particularly impressive at sunset, when the colors of the canyon become even more intense.
• Waimea Canyon also has a rich history and cultural significance for the Native Hawaiians. Near the canyon are archaeological sites and historical monuments that tell of the island’s past.

Poipu Beach Park (Poʻipū Beach Park) is a popular beach park on the south coast of the island of Kauai in Hawaii. It is located near the town of Koloa and is known for its beautiful landscape, clear water and wide range of leisure activities.

Sights & Facts

• Poipu Beach Park includes several beaches, including the popular Poipu Beach , Brennecke’s Beach and Shipwreck Beach .
• Poipu Beach is an excellent place for snorkeling and diving, especially along the coral reef off the coast. Visitors can discover a variety of marine life, including tropical fish, sea turtles and corals.
• Brennecke’s Beach and Shipwreck Beach are popular with surfers and bodyboarders, especially in the winter months when the waves are higher.
• Poipu Beach Park offers various facilities for visitors, including toilets, showers, picnic areas and barbecue facilities. Lifeguards are on site to ensure the safety of visitors.
• In addition to beach activities, the park also offers opportunities for hiking, jogging and picnicking in the picturesque surroundings.
• Poipu Beach also offers a good backdrop for watching the sunset.

Kokee State Park (Kōkeʻe State Park) is a popular nature reserve on the island of Kauai. The park is located in the western part of the island and offers a breathtaking landscape with lush rainforests, spectacular gorges and numerous hiking trails for visitors of all fitness levels.

Sights & Facts

• Kokee State Park covers an area of approximately 4,345 hectares and is located in the Waimea Canyon and Napali Coast Mountains.
• It offers its visitors a variety of leisure activities such as hiking, camping, picnicking, bird watching and photography.
• The park is home to a variety of bird species, including endemic species such as the Hawaiian amakihi and the Hawaiian iwi.
• The park has visitor centers, picnic areas, toilets and campsites for overnight guests.
• The visitor centers offer information about the park, its history, geology, flora and fauna.
• The area around Mount Waialeale (Waiʻaleʻale) in the middle of the island is considered one of the rainiest places in the world.

The Napali Coast (Nāpali Coast), also known as the Na Pali Coast (Nā Pali Coast), is a breathtaking coastal region in the northwest of the island of Kauai in Hawaii. This unspoiled and dramatic landscape is famous for its steep cliffs, emerald green valleys, hidden beaches and crystal clear waters.

Sights & Facts

• The Napali Coast stretches for about 27 kilometers along the northwest coast of Kauai, starting at Kee Beach and ending at Polihale State Park .
• It is characterized by steep cliffs that rise up to 1,200 metres from sea level.
• The landscape of the Napali Coast has been shaped by thousands of years of erosion, with the steep cliffs formed by the interaction of volcanic activity and erosion.
• The Napali Coast is not accessible by land and can only be explored via hiking trails, boat tours or helicopter flights. The most popular hiking trails along the coast are the Kalalau Trail and the Awa’awapuhi Trail .
• Popular activities on the Napali Coast include hiking, camping, boat tours, snorkeling, kayaking and helicopter tours.
• The Napali Coast is home to many animal species, including dolphins, sea turtles and a variety of seabirds. During the whale season, humpback whales can also be observed in the waters off the coast.
• It has great cultural significance for the indigenous people of Hawaii and is rich in historical sites, caves and archaeological finds.
• Honopu Beach is a secluded and breathtakingly beautiful beach in the middle of the Napali Coast. It cannot be reached by land and has been the location for films such as “King Kong” and “The Hunger Games – Catching Fire”.