In just 25 days I will be hopping on a plane and heading to the beautiful tropical paradise that is Jamaica. In an effort to make sure we see and do everything we can, trip planning has become our daily down time task. Trying to find adventures, where to eat, where to get the best cocktails, how to see it like a local; anything that we definitely want on the Jamaica Bucket list. But planning can prove quite difficult with a million websites and everyones reviews and season deals…exciting, but EXHAUSTING. Why am I babbling about Jamaica and trip planning? Because I’ve put together this Quick Guide to Kauai to help you plan your own paradise trip! Kauai was an amazing vacation, experience, and overall surrendering to the sun gods I experienced last year. I want to make sure you too have a place to find tips for when you begin your Kauai, Hawaii vacation!
Depart
I traveled to Kauai in October and it was perfect. Not only was the weather perfect between warm and random 2 minute rain showers to cool the air, but airfare and hotel rates drop at this time. If you travel to the island as your winter getaway (December – February) just be forewarned prices are at their highest.
Stay
There are a lot of places to stay on the island of Kauai but (completely biased) I would choose The Kiahuna Plantation. You’re right on the ocean with the only direct access to Poipu beach and the room had a full kitchen and a patio out to a gorgeous backyard. As if that wasn’t great enough, the beach at the back of the Plantation is home to two gorgeous and huge sea turtles that live in the reef right off shore. Every morning you can snorkel just 30 feet out and watch the turtles swim about in the reef.
Adventure
Waimea Canyon State Park: This is one of my favorite places I’ve ever been. The overwhelming colors of red and green mountain kissing the bright blue sky are a photographers dream. Plus the thousands of free roaming chickens that live among the canyon are pretty hilarious on your way up to the peak lookout.
Kalalau Lookout: This is not just another lookout in the Waimea Canyon State Park. This view looks out over the heart of the Kalalau Valley, a breathtakingly beautiful scene. Want a sneak peak? Just watch Mighty Joe Young, Jurassic Park, King Kong, and many other movies filmed here.
Surfing in Hanalei Bay: On the north shore of the “garden island” lives the surf dream of Hanalei Bay. A 2 mile half moon crescent with a mixture of the best of both worlds, sand and mountains. We rented boards and surfed for hours before heading to eat. Catch it at the right season and you’ll be watching pro surfers and sportsman alike.
Kilauea Lighthouse: While we didn’t get up close (we were just passing by) the lighthouse was classic, white body, red top, and standing tall along its cliff. It’s said the shores at the light house is a great place to spot seals and humpback whales.
Wailua Falls: Just north of Lihue lies Wailua Falls a little off the beaten path. The waterfall cascades into two streams about a 200foot drop into the pool of water below.
Spouting Horn: Large hole in the middle of amazing rocks that spouts water insanely high in the air when the waves come crashing in. Simple as that, cool as that. Insert dirty joke here.
Coconut Festival: The beginning of October every year, Kauai hosts their traditional Coconut Festival. It’s full of Hawaiian culture, dancing, amazing food, fire throwing and naturally ending in the climbing of an insanely high coconut tree with just a piece of fabric…AH-MAZING.
Eat
Paco’s Tacos: An unexpected mexican hit! This truck and the truck below were parked in a rock filled lot with a few park tables and a whole lotta free ranging chickens.
Little Greek Town: The “G” Spot- Fresh baked bread, organic grass fed beef, friendly staff, this is the truck to stop at. Although it’s slightly higher priced for food trucks, you’ll realize it’s totally worth it when they hand you the toddler sized delicious gyro.
Duke’s Kauai: Talk about prime real estate, there’s nothing like sucking down a MaiThai, looking out over Hanalei Bay. It’s the simplest decision…amazing view, friendly service, delicious food and a beach trip to follow lunch. Amazing.
Marriman’s Gourmet Pizza & Burgers: We stumbled upon this restaurant in a sort of outdoor shopping center while exploring the area. Their food was delicious. I ordered a gourmet pizza with pesto, pineapples, and Hawaiian barbacoa. A little pricier but a great find.
Spam: I’ll admit, I did not eat spam while in Hawaii. I KNOW… how very unadventerous and anti foodie traveler of me. I’m disappointed in myself. However we really didn’t have a chance to indulge in the spam world BUT my love did find THE cookbook…
Why Go?
Because the islands are full of mystery and wonder. Because waterfalls and tropical drinks views are around every corner. Because it’s the beautiful islands vacation without having to exchange money or get a passport. Because Jack Johnson is a possible sighting. Because it’s Hawaii.
Random Tip
When you get to a small one lane bridge, use HI bridge etiquette: all cars on one side cross then all cars on the other cross.
*All photos are my own. If you wish to use any please email me at onebroadsjourney@gmail.com and site the original website(onebroadsjourney.com). Thank you.
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