Each and every Hawaiian Island has its own unique character and personality. Though they are connected as an island chain, they are their own and visiting each reveals the charm that each possesses, and you can feel the differences. Oahu is a busy place with a ton of fun things to do, Maui is very laid back and easy going, the Big Island is very intimate, and Kauai is a carefree environment. There are many traits that makes each island its own, and you have to visit them to discover what makes them so special.
Prior to visiting, travelers pour over pictures, articles, and travel guides to find out what they should do when they arrive, where to eat, and where all the hidden hotspots are. It is also very important to get to know the history of the destination prior to traveling, so you can find historic places and really get to know what makes the islands so special.
The oldest of the Hawaiian Islands, Kauai is not too far from Oahu, and is the closets island to Ni’ihau, known as “The Forbidden Isle”. There is so much to love about Kauai, from its deep history to its scenic beauty, and the fun things to do all over the island.
Before you travel, knowing about the island will get you ready for your trip:
- During the days of the Kingdom of Hawaii, Princeville was the capital city of Kauai.
- Hurricane Iniki struck the island in 1992 releasing thousands of chickens onto the island. Chickens continue to roam free today and are everywhere.
- Mt. Waialeale averages about 460 inches of rainfall each year, making it one of the wettest places on Earth.
- Captain James Cook was the first European to reach Hawaii, when he landed on Kauai in 1778.
- During the unification of the islands, Kauai and Ni’iahu were the last of the islands to be conquered by King Kamehameha the Great.
- Taro production is still a major crop on the island, with about 60% of Hawaii’s Taro coming from the Hanalei Valley on Kauai’s North Shore.
- The Na Pali Coast encompasses 6,175 acres on Northwestern Kauai, with the coastline stretching about 14 miles.
- Kauai has a long history with the film and television industry, and has been featured in more than 70 films and television shows, including: Lilo & Stitch, Jurassic Park, King Kong, Tropic Thunder, Blue Hawaii, and Paradise, Hawaiian Style.
- The island’s costline stretches 111 miles, and nearly 50% of that is untouched, sandy beaches.
- The state bird of Hawaii is the Nene Goose, and Kauai has the largest population of the protected bird.
- Approximately 70% of the island is inaccessible by foot.
Due to the high volume of visitors traveling to Hawaii year round, our Hawaii tours and Hawaii activities sell out quickly. In many cases, tours sell out weeks or months in advance. To ensure your spots on tour, we recommend reserving your tours today. Call our office or book online to take advantage of our low price guarantee today.
back to trip planner