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Kauaʻi at a Glance: Garden Isle Facts, Highlights & Must-See Spots
Kauaʻi is the Garden Isle—oldest of the main Hawaiian Islands, the least populated, and a favorite escape for laid-back beach time and jaw-dropping scenery. From the cathedral cliffs of the Nāpali Coast to the russet ridges of Waimea Canyon, the island blends small towns, scenic lookouts, and resort comforts into a relaxed, nature-first vacation.
Quick Island Highlights
- Nāpali Coast: ~6,000+ protected acres on the northwest shore where sea cliffs soar over 4,000 feet above the Pacific—best seen by boat, kayak (seasonal), or air. Explore Nāpali tours.
- Waimea Canyon & Kōkeʻe: Sweeping overlooks, waterfall views, and high-country trails with cooler mountain air.
- Beaches: 111 miles of coastline with many long, undeveloped sandy stretches (always check conditions; surf is highly seasonal on the North Shore).
Did You Know?
- Rainfall records: Mount Waiʻaleʻale is among the wettest places on Earth, feeding countless streams and waterfalls.
- Hurricane ʻIniki (1992): Caused widespread damage; today’s free-roaming chickens are a quirky post-storm legacy seen island-wide.
- Early contact: In 1778, Captain James Cook first made European contact with Hawaiʻi at Waimea, Kauaʻi.
- Unification era: Kauaʻi and Niʻihau were the last islands brought under King Kamehameha’s rule, via negotiation rather than battle.
- Taro country: Hanalei Valley’s working loʻi (taro patches) continue a centuries-old farming tradition.
- Nēnē (state bird): Kauaʻi hosts the largest population; observe respectfully—these native geese are protected.
- On screen: Filming locations span Jurassic Park, Blue Hawaii, Lilo & Stitch, King Kong, Tropic Thunder, and more.
Planning Tips
- How to see more: Pair a Nāpali boat/flight with Waimea Canyon/Kōkeʻe viewpoints, then add mellow beach time.
- Getting around: A car is the easiest way to explore; start early for lighter traffic and easier parking at popular lookouts.
Book Early
Popular experiences often sell out weeks or months ahead. Lock in your dates now—browse Kauaʻi tours & activities or all Hawaiʻi tours and take advantage of our low-price guarantee.