Kauai Is Open: Here's Our Top 5 Things to Do on the Island
All is calm on Kauai—and being reunited with paradise has never felt so good. Whether you're planning to stay on Kauai or do a little island hopping, if you're looking for laid-back, lush adventure Kauai is the perfect next destination. From more secluded finds to iconic must-see spots, Kauai has so much magnificent nature to explore. Here are our top five things to do now on the gorgeous "Garden Island."
#1 Trek the Pier at Hanalei Bay
A popular landmark, the Hanalei Pier was originally built in 1882. However, its most recent version is just a few years old. The pier was used for many years as a loading point for sugar ships. Today, the shallow area near the pier is a popular spot for family swimming with a nice mix of hot and cool water where the pier meets the ocean, and the pier attracts everyone from kayakers to those who like to fish.
#2 Go Wild at Wailua Falls
With this excursion, you're stepping into a piece of television history. These beautiful 173-foot falls located on the Wailua River were featured in the opening credits for "Fantasy Island" back in the day. This is a magical setting where you can pack along your own picnic basket and umbrella for a private lunch in paradise.
#3 Visit the Koloa Rum Company
Featuring a taproom and shop, this vibrant and welcoming distillery—this is the first licensed distillery on the island of Kauai—is the perfect spot to sip some island sunshine straight into your soul. Koloa also offers rare treats like rum fudge sauce, cakes, jellies, jams, syrups and more. Make sure to book your tour ahead of time to confirm availability.
#4 Explore the Princeville Botanical Gardens
You'll be convinced that the Garden of Eden is real when you step foot inside the Princeville Botanical Gardens for a walk through paradise. Located on Kauai's north shore, this beautiful estate is owned locally by the Robertson family. It features incredible tropical landscaping that flows into two steep valleys—and taking a chocolate tour is a must. The treats to collect along the way include homegrown honey, fresh fruit samples and homespun chocolates. You'll also learn the history and folklore behind popular native Hawaiian greenery. Book your tour ahead of time to confirm availability.
#5 Hang Around Old Koloa Town
Old Koloa Town is a plantation-era village that is alive with lovely shops, restaurants and historical landmarks. It's a great place to sample some Kona coffee, munch on some Hawaiian shaved ice, snag some locally made soaps, pick up some authentic pearl earrings to take home and soak up what small-town life looks like in paradise. You'll find little tidbits of history celebrating Koloa's status as the home of Hawaii's first successful sugar mill peppered throughout your journey.
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