Spotlight's Kauai Gold Magazine
Kauai Sightseeing Guide » The Seven Wonders of Kauai
#1 - Napali Coast (The Cliffs)
Majestic sea cliffs rise 4000 ft. above Kaua‘i's uninhabited North Shore. Sea caves, lush hidden valleys, deserted white sand beaches and some of Hawai‘i's most awe inspiring views. Accessible by air, boat or a strenuous 11-mile hike on the Kalalau Trail.
#2 - Kalalau Trail (The Straying)
A full day 11-mile hike traversing five spectacular valleys, over mountain streams and waterfalls, and through the ruins of several ancient Hawaiian settlements. The trail begins at the end of the road in Ha‘ena State Park and ends at Kalalau Beach.
#3 - Kilauea Point National Wildlife Refuge (Spewing)
One of the country's most visited wildlife refuges, this historic lighthouse on Kaua‘i's northern most point is home to nesting seabirds in the cliffs above and whales, dolphins, seals and turtles in the blue-green waters below.
#4 - Waimea Canyon (Reddish Water) / Kokee State Park (To bend, wind)
The Grand Canyon of the Pacific is a geological wonder stretching 10 miles long, 3,600 feet deep and over a mile wide. There are numerous hiking trails, picnic areas and lookouts. The park's headquarters is in Koke‘e.
#5 - Wailua River and Falls (Many waters)
Take a half-mile hike to the lookout above where Hawaiian chiefs once jumped to prove their courage. A short boat trip up Hawai‘i's biggest river takes you to the beautiful Fern Grotto, a massive lava tube festooned with lush tropical flora.
#6 - Mt. Waialeale (Rippling, overflowing waters)
The mountain is the second highest point on Kaua‘i at 5,148 feet and one of the wettest place on Earth with over 400 inches of annual rainfall. The unparalleled beauty of this important watershed area can only be seen from the air.
#7 - Hanalei Bay, River & Valley (Crescent Bay)
Rich in history and beauty, the valley was once home to a large, thriving Hawaiian community. Today, it is where most of the state's taro (poi) is grown. In the 1800s, the bay was an important harbor for whaling and trade vessels.
Photos by Ray Ihori, Blaine Michioka and Wayne Shinbara
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