Island of Kauai - Travel Tips

Introduction

A law on Kauai states that no building may exceed the height of a coconut tree -- between three and four stories. As a result, the island itself gets all the attention. There's no real nightlife here, or, opulent shopping malls, but there is the beauty of the verdant jungle, the endless succession of spectacular beaches, the grandeur of Waimea Canyon, and the drama of the Na Pali Coast. Princeville frames the natural glory of Hanalei's spectacular 4,000-foot-high Namolokama mountain range.

What To Do

This is the place for active visitors: There are water sports galore; miles of trails through rainforests and along ocean cliffs for hikers, bikers, and horseback riders; and golf options that range from championship links to funky local courses where chickens roam the greens and balls wind up embedded in coconut trees. Kauai is also great for those who need to relax and heal jangled nerves; you'll find miles of sandy beaches, perfect for just sitting and meditating. There are also quiet spots in the forest where you can listen to the rain dance on the leaves, as well as an endless supply of laid-back, lazy days that end with the sun sinking into the Pacific amid a blaze of glorious tropical color.

 

Dining

Duke's Canoe Club (tel. 808/246-9599): Tropical atmosphere overlooking the ocean, great fresh fish at attractive prices, and dependably good meals.

Casa Blanca at Kiahuna (tel. 808/742-2929): This stylish, open-air restaurant overlooking the manicured grounds of the Kiahuna Swim and Tennis Club is a casual, elegant restaurant serving some of the best cuisine on Kauai. The menu offers include a gourmet breakfast, a creative lunch, a tapas menu of small items, and probably the best dinner you will eat on Kauai.

Dondero's (tel. 808/742-1234): If you are looking for a romantic dinner either under the stars overlooking the ocean or tucked away at an intimate table surrounded by inlaid marble floors, ornate imported floor tiles, and Franciscan murals, this is your best bet. All this atmosphere comes with the best Italian cuisine on the island, served with efficiency.

Tidepool Restaurant (tel. 808/742-1234): An ultra-romantic setting (literally hanging over the water), fabulous creative cuisine, and quick, efficient service with a smile make this restaurant in the Grand Hyatt a stand out.

Caffè Coco (tel. 808/822-7990): This gets our vote for the most charming ambience on Kauai. Caffè Coco is just off the main road at the edge of a cane field in Wailua, its backyard shaded by fruit trees, with a view of Sleeping Giant Mountain. Gourmet fare is cooked to order -- and at cafe prices. The food is excellent, with vegetarian and other healthful delights such as spanakopita, homemade chai, Greek salad, fish wraps, macadamia nut?black sesame ahi with wasabi cream, and an excellent tofu-and-roast-veggie wrap.

Blossoming Lotus (tel. 808/822-7678): Even if you are not a vegetarian, you will be pleasantly surprised at the creative cuisine in this elegant eatery in Kapaa. Most people can't believe that healthy, non-meat dishes could be this delicious, and even the desserts look sinful.

La Cascata (tel. 808/826-9644): The North Shore's special-occasion restaurant is sumptuous -- a Sicilian spree in Eden. Try to get here before dark, so you can enjoy the views of Bali Hai, the persimmon-colored sunset, and the waterfalls of Waialeale, all an integral part of the feast. Click your heels on the terra-cotta floors, take in the trompe l'oeil vines, train your eyes through the concertina windows, and pretend you're being served on a terrazzo in Sicily.

Kilauea Fish Market (tel. 808/828-6244): Perfect for a takeout lunch or dinner on the beach, this tiny deli (with a handful of tables outside) pumps out incredibly delicious meals (even dishes for vegetarians) with fresh, healthy, locally grown and caught ingredients.

Entertainment

 

Kauai is known for lots of things: the most beautiful beaches in the state, the magnificent Na Pali Cliffs jutting into the ocean, the incredible rainforests, and the wide panoramas of the Waimea Canyon, but it is not known for a vibrant nightlife. This is a rural island, where work stops when the sun goes down and people go to bed early. There are a few nightlife options, but you pretty much have to search them out and be ready to blend into the island-style options.

 

 

Entry Requirements

Entry requirements for foreign visitors outside of the United States

Under the Visa Waiver Plan, designed to speed up immigration procedures, citizens of Britain, Ireland, Australia, New Zealand and most European countries in possession of full passports do not require visas for trips to the United States of less than ninety days. Visa waiver forms are handed out on incoming planes, and are processed during immigration control at your initial point of arrival on US soil. The form requires details of where you are staying on your first night, and the date you intend to leave the US. You should be able to prove that you have enough money to support yourself while in the US. You may experience difficulties if you admit to being HIV-positive or having AIDS or TB. Part of the form will be attached to your passport, where it must stay until you leave. The same form also covers entry across the land borders with Canada and Mexico.

Citizens of all other countries should contact their local US embassy or consulate for details of current entry requirements. Even those eligible for the visa waiver plan must apply for a free tourist visa if they intend to stay in the US for more than ninety days. Whatever your nationality, visas are not issued to convicted felons or to anybody who owns up to being a communist, fascist or drug dealer.

Money

ATMs-- Hawaii pioneered the use of ATMs more than 2 decades ago, and now they're everywhere. You'll find them at most banks, in supermarkets, at Long's Drugs, and in most resorts and shopping centers. Cirrus (tel. 800/424-7787) and PLUS (tel. 800/843-7587) are the two most popular networks; check the back of your ATM card to see which network your bank belongs to (most banks belong to both these days).

Traveller's Checks-- Traveler's checks are something of an anachronism from the days before the ATM made cash accessible at any time. Traveler's checks used to be the only sound alternative to traveling with dangerously large amounts of cash. They were as reliable as currency, but, unlike cash, could be replaced if lost or stolen.

You can get traveler's checks at almost any bank.

Visa offers traveler's checks at Citibank locations nationwide, as well as at several other banks. The checks come in denominations of $20, $50, $100, $500, and $1,000. Call tel. 800/732-1322 for information. AAA members can obtain Visa checks for a fee (for checks up to $1,500) at most AAA offices or by calling tel. 866/339-3378. MasterCard also offers traveler's checks. Call tel. 800/223-9920 for a location near you.

If you choose to carry traveler's checks, be sure to keep a record of their serial numbers separate from your checks in the event that they are stolen or lost. You'll get a refund faster if you know the numbers.

Emergency

Emergencies-- Dial tel. 911 for police, fire, and ambulance service. The Poison Control Center can be reached at tel. 800/362-3585.

Hospitals-- Wilcox Health System, 3420 Kuhio Hwy., Lihue (tel. 808/245-1100), has emergency services available around the clock.

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Map of Kauai

 

Kauai Weather

 

Weather Averages

Average High Temperatures 78.0°F 25°C 78.0°F 25°C 78.0°F 25°C 79.0°F 26°C 81.0°F 27°C 83.0°F 28°C Average Low Temperatures 65.0°F 18°C 65.0°F 18°C 66.0°F 18°C 68.0°F 20°C 70.0°F 21°C 72.0°F 22°C Average Temperature 72.0°F 22°C 72.0°F 22°C 73.0°F 22°C 74.0°F 23°C 76.0°F 24°C 78.0°F 25°C Average Precipitation 5.4% 3.6% 4.3% 3.0% 2.6% 1.6%

Average High Temperatures 84.0°F 28°C 85.0°F 29°C 85.0°F 29°C 83.0°F 28°C 81.0°F 27°C 79.0°F 26°C Average Low Temperatures 73.0°F 22°C 74.0°F 23°C 73.0°F 22°C 72.0°F 22°C 70.0°F 21°C 67.0°F 19°C Average Temperature 79.0°F 26°C 80.0°F 26°C 79.0°F 26°C 78.0°F 25°C 76.0°F 24°C 73.0°F 22°C Average Precipitation 2.1% 2.0% 2.2% 4.5% 5.4% 5.6%

General Details

Temperature and Climate Zones

Weather on all of the Hawaiian islands is very consistent, with only moderate changes in temperature throughout the year. This is possible due to the year-round warm sea surface temperatures, which keeps the overlying atmosphere warm as well. In practical terms there are only 2 seasons here: the summer months (called Kau in Hawaiian) that extend from May to October and the winter months (Ho'oilo) that run from November to April. The average day-time summer temperature at sea level is 85 degrees F. (29.4 C) while the average day-time winter temperature is 78 degrees (25.6 C). Night-time temperatures are approximately 10 degrees F. lower.

Visitors to Hawaii will find that it is a marvel of nature. As a result of the shielding effect of her volcanic mountains and the differences in weather found at various elevations, there are as many different climate zones here as exist along the entire coast stretching from Alaska to Costa Rica. The islands can be described as an incredibly diverse collection of many micro-environments, each possessing unique weather, plants and animals. To see the full impact of this natural wealth visitors only need to explore the islands by car, or helicopter and they will be struck by the beauty of tropical rain forests, cool alpine regions, stony deserts and sunny beaches, all within the span of just a few short miles.

Rainfall and Storms

Through most of the year Hawaiian weather patterns are effected primarily by high pressure zones in the north Pacific that pump relatively cool, moist trade winds down onto the island's northeastern slopes. This pattern holds true for most of the summer and approximately half of the time in the winter. These winds are forced up-slope by the mountain heights where ultimately their moisture condenses into clouds that produce rain. Most of the rain then falls in the mountains and valleys on the windward (northeastern) side of the islands. It is this weather phenomenon that creates the rich tropical environment of flowers and verdant greens that have made Hawaii famous. The wettest months are from November - March, but these winter rains do not generally disrupt vacationer's plans, since the very localized nature of the weather usually means that if it is raining where you are, there is almost always a sunny spot to be found by a short drive around the coast.

The action of trade winds here means that there is always a cooling breeze. The strength of this wind builds as the heat of the day rises and reaches a peak in the afternoon, only to diminish in the evening and start again the following day. Several times during the year the trade winds will stop completely and the wind will switch around to come out of the south or west, bringing stormy or hot sticky weather. Islanders sometimes call this "Kona" weather, because kona is a polynesian word that means leeward or South, and this points to the direction from which these weather systems arrive. Stormy weather does come to the islands, primarily in the winter and sometimes lingers for several days. Severe storms, however, are not a common occurrence here.

Water and Surf Conditions

Beach-goers will be happy to learn that the temperature of Hawaii's near-shore waters stay comfortable throughout the year. The average year round water temperature is 74 degrees F. (23.3 C), with a summer high of 80 degrees F. (26.7 C). Wave action varies a great deal between winter and summer, and between island coasts. Generally summer waters are very gentle on all beaches. This changes in the winter on many north facing beaches, as storms far out into the Pacific drive ocean swells towards the islands, which build into large breaking waves.

As with island rains, wave conditions are often very localized, so if there is too much surf on your beach, you can usually find calmer water by taking a short drive to a beach that is sheltered from the prevailing surf. Swimmers should keep in mind that h4 currents can make any beach unsafe at any time during the year, but this is particularly true in the winter. When in doubt, simply ask your hotel staff or a local for their recommendations and also watch for warning flags and posted beach conditions.

Hawaii's Mountains and Volcanos

Many visitors to the islands will be drawn to the natural beauty found in the higher elevations such as Kokee on Kauai, or Haleakala on Maui, or Kilauea on the Big Island. In preparing for your trip you'll want to take long pants and several layers of cool weather clothing because the temperature in the higher locations drops 3.5 degrees for every 1,000 feet above sea level that you climb. For example, the summit of Haleakala at an elevation of 10,023 feet can be as much as 30 degrees F. cooler than the resort areas on the coast. Similarly the summit of Kilauea, which is at an elevation of 4,078 feet, can be 14 degrees cooler than the sea level temperature.

You should also be aware that because these peaks rise through the earth's atmosphere, there is less protection at these elevations from the sun's powerful burning rays. This burning effect can be easily masked by the cool temperatures on the mountain, so be sure to use your sun block liberally, and bring your hat and sunglasses.

Fun Things To Do in Kauai

Attractions & Activities

Kauai Attractions

Below are some of Kauai's best natural attractions.

Waterfalls: Rushing waterfalls thundering downward into sparkling freshwater pools are some of Hawaii's most beautiful natural wonders. Kauai is loaded with waterfalls, especially along the North Shore and in the Wailua area, where you'll find 40-foot Opaekaa Falls, probably the best-looking drive-up waterfall on Kauai. With scenic mountain peaks in the background and a restored Hawaiian village on the nearby riverbank, the Opaekaa Falls are what the tourist bureau folks call an eye-popping photo op.

Gardens: The islands are redolent with the sweet scent of flowers. For a glimpse of the full breadth and beauty of Hawaii's spectacular range of tropical flora, we suggest spending an afternoon at a lush garden. Na Aina Kai Botanical Gardens, on some 240 acres sprinkled with about 70 life-size (some larger than life-size) whimsical bronze statues, lies hidden off the beaten path of the North Shore. Other great gardens are Allerton Garden in Poipu and Limahuli outside of Hanalei.

National Wildlife Refuges: Kauai has three wildlife refuges: Kilauea Point, which protects seabirds; Huleia, which shelters endemic Hawaiian birds and wetlands; and Hanalei, which maintains a sheltered area for Hawaiian birds and the watershed.

The Grand Canyon of the Pacific -- Waimea Canyon: This valley, known for its reddish lava beds, reminds everyone who sees it of Arizona's Grand Canyon. Kauai's version is bursting with ever-changing color, just like its namesake, but it's smaller -- only a mile wide, 3,567 feet deep, and 12 miles long. All this grandeur was caused by a massive earthquake that sent existing streams flowing into a single river, which then carved this picturesque canyon. You can stop by the road to view the canyon, hike down into it, or swoop through it by helicopter.

 

Kauai Activities

Below are some of our favorite Kauai experiences.

Hitting the Beach: A beach is a beach is a beach, right? Not on Kauai. With 50 miles of beaches, Kauai offers ocean experiences in all shapes and forms. You can go to a different beach every day during your vacations and still not get tired of seeing them.

Taking the Plunge: Rent a mask, fins, and snorkel. Facedown, you'll float like a leaf on a pond, watching brilliant fish dart here and there in water clear as day; a slow-moving turtle may even stop by to check you out. Faceup, you'll contemplate green-velvet cathedral-like cliffs under a blue sky, with long-tailed tropical birds riding the trade winds.

Feeling History Come Alive: It is possible to walk back in history on Kauai. You can see ancient, ancient history, from the times when the menehune were around, at the Menehune Ditch and Menehune Fishpond. Or experience Hawaiian history at the Kauai Museum, the archaeological sites at Wailua River State Park, and the Ka Ulu O Laka heiau. For more recent history, since the arrival of Captain Cook, check out the Grove Farm Homestead Museum, Kilohana, and the Waioli Mission House Museum.

Going Deep-Sea, Big-Game Fishing: Don't pass up the opportunity to try your luck in the sportfishing capital of the world, where 1,000-pound marlin are taken from the seas just about every month of the year. Not looking to set a world record? Kauai's charter-boat captains specialize in conservation and will be glad to tag and release any fish you angle, letting it go so someone else can have the fun of fighting a big-game fish tomorrow.

Exploring the Grand Canyon of the Pacific: The great gaping gulch known as Waimea Canyon is quite a sight. This valley, known for its reddish lava beds, reminds everyone who sees it of the Grand Canyon. Kauai's version is bursting with ever-changing color, just like its namesake, but it's smaller -- only a mile wide, 3,567 feet deep, and 12 miles long. A massive earthquake sent streams into the single river that ultimately carved this picturesque canyon. Today, the Waimea River -- a silver thread of water in the gorge that's sometimes a trickle, often a torrent, but always there -- keeps cutting the canyon deeper and wider, and nobody can say what the result will be 100 million years from now.

Bidding the Sun Aloha: Polihale State Park hugs Kauai's western shore for some 17 miles. It's a great place to bring a picnic dinner, stretch out on the sand, and toast the sun as it sinks into the Pacific, illuminating the island of Niihau in the distance. Queen's Pond has facilities for camping as well as restrooms, showers, picnic tables, and pavilions.

Soaring Over the Na Pali Coast: This is the only way to see the spectacular, surreal beauty of Kauai. Your helicopter will dip low over razor-thin cliffs, flutter past sparkling waterfalls, and swoop down into the canyons and valleys of the fabled Na Pali Coast. The only problem is that there's too much beauty to absorb, and it all goes by in a rush.

Watch for the Green Flash
If you have been on the island for a few days, you'll notice that people seem to gather outside and watch the sunset. After the sun has set, several people may call out, "Green flash!"

No they haven't had too many mai tais or piña coladas. They are referring to a real, honest-to-God phenomenon that happens after sunset there is a "green flash" of light.

The romantic version of the story is that the green flash happens when the sun kisses the ocean good night. (Honeymooners love this version.) The scientific version is not quite as dreamy; it goes something like this: Light bends as it goes around the curve of the earth. When the sun dips beneath the horizon, it is at the far end of the spectrum. So this refraction of the sun's light, coupled with the atmosphere at the extreme angle of the sunset on the horizon, causes only the color green to been seen in the color spectrum just before the light disappears.

Here's how to view the green flash: First, the day has to be clear, with no clouds or haze on the horizon. Keep checking the sun as it drops. (Try not to look directly into the sun; just glance at it to assess its position.) If the conditions are ideal, just as the sun drops into the blue waters a "flash" or laserlike beam of green will shoot out for an instant. That's the flash.

Health & Safety Links

Travelers' Health, US Department of Health and Human Resources

Flight Overview Kauai

Only one airport on Kauai, located just outside Lihu'e (airport code LIH), is currently served by commercial flights. Apart from the daily nonstop United and American service from Los Angeles and San Francisco and seasonal nonstop service from Los Angeles on ATA, most flights come from Honolulu. Both Aloha and Hawaiian Airlines offer frequent service. If you are buying a package trip, the cost of the island hop will be included with your package.

Non-stop, direct or connecting flights to Honolulu with good connecting flights to Kauai are available from all major and regional airports in North America. From cities on the West Coast, the flight time to Honolulu is approximately 4 ? - 5 hours. From Chicago, non-stop flights to Honolulu are 8 hours, and from New York, non-stop flights to Honolulu are approximately 10 ? hours.

During the past several years, more non-stop flights have become available to Hawaii's "Neighbor Islands" of Maui, Kauai and the Big Island of Hawaii from cities along the West Coast. Inter-island flights to all Neighbor Islands depart regularly from Honolulu International Airport and flight times run just 20 - 35 minutes, making island hopping simple and convenient.

Our Airline Partners Serving Hawaii:

American Trans Air
Delta Airlines
United Airlines
Hawaiian Airlines
American Airlines
Aloha Airlines
Horizon Airlines