Kauai for first timers
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Kauai for first timers
Amy Posey
Available for hire
The island of Kauai may be small, but it has a lot packed into it. Quieter and more laid back, this island offers some prime relaxation, some great natural beauty, and a variety of unique spots to eat.
Divided into 3 areas with a ring road, you'll likely find yourself based in the north (ranier), east (windier) or south (sunnier). I've broken these spots into those 3 sections.
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North Shore Kauai
Edged by the famed Na Pali Coast, basing yourself in the north might mean more rain, but plenty to do in Princeville and Hanalei. Even a short hike on the Kalalauu Trail on the Na Pali coast will be amazing with views down the sheer cliffs (if you can make it to the first beach, bonus!). Take a boat ride and explore the ridges from the water--and also, do the helicopter tour. It's worth it! You'll visit great spots on the island including places where Jurassic Park were filmed. The winding, single-lane roads to Hanalei are quaint, so don't be in a rush to get there.
The weather on the North Shore tends to be a bit rainy, especially in the March/April timeframe. Be prepared for passing showers as well as muddy hikes.
What to See
Nā Pali Coast State Wilderness Park
@amyposey
IMPORTANT: you now need reservations to visit/hike. Check 30 days ahead of your trip to schedule.
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Hanalei Beach
@amyposey
A beautiful stretch of sand and a variety of waves for all levels (head east toward the pier for a gentler surf!). Great views of the coast. There are a few parking areas, but most ample lot is Black Pot Beach parking, which is walkable to shops/restaurants in Hanalei.
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Queen’s Bath
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An amazing view of the shoreline and a rocky path leads you to a large tide pool that the more adventurous can swim in. Use extreme caution with the tides--check before you venture out (there are plenty of warning signs). The hike down to the ocean can be slippery and muddy if raining. A beautiful spot to watch the ocean.
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ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Amy Posey
Available for hire
California-based traveler focused on short attention span travel. My guides provide info on how to make the most of a short trip and find the best eats (usually healthy/veg!) in town.
I've spent the last 22 years traveling, living, and working overseas and love experiencing the very best a place has to offer even if I don't have a lot of time. My guides focus on 2-4 day trips in a place. I tend to get out into nature🌲, check out great restaurants 🍽️, and find great coffee ☕️.
📍Currently: San Jose, CA
🇵🇹 Soon: Albufeira, Portugal
🌎 visited 80+ countries
🏃🏼♀️ fast break expert
🏔 mountaineer & paragliding enthusiast
🌱 plant forward + foodie
☕️ coffee lover
✈️ married to an airline pilot, so I live that #nonrev life
____________________________
Shop my guides to suss the best things to do with not a lot of time. There's a sample guide or two available for FREE! so check it out.
New!: Cartagena and Medellin Colombia
Coming soon!: Algarve, Portugal, Global Pizza Quest, San Jose Burrito Throwdown
What's included
Digital Map
Fully interactive, digital map for finding places nearby
58 places
58 hand-picked places with notes from the creator
DESTINATION(S) COVERED
Kauai County, HI, USA
FOCUSES AND THEMES
Adventure
Foodie
Nature
Romantic
Slow Travel
Beach
Mountain
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Guides typically include detailed information and how-to’s about a destination as well as suggested places to try.
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