While you're on Kauai: some of our favorites

 

You'll hear all about the spectacular beaches, mountain hikes, snorkeling, waterfalls, and rainbows . . . So we'll just add a few more suggestions.

 

RESTAURANTS

~ Blossoming Lotus, in Kapa'a, has exceptional, innovative vegan cuisine. (And the BEST chocolate-and-coconut cake!)

~ Caffe Coco, also in Kapa'a, offers great veggie options and a charming, tropically casual outdoor dining area.

~ Gaylord's, at Kilohana plantation near Lihue, has a lovely courtyard setting. Classical music, lots of birds. . . perfect for a relaxed lunch.

~ In Poipu you can find delicious Italian at Casa di Amici, many tasty options at Roy's, and ocean views and terrific pupus at The Beach House.

~ The Princeville Hotel beckons on Sundays with their amazing brunch.  It's pricey but worth it ~ for the food AND the breathtaking bay and mountain views. The hotel’s Friday night seafood buffet is another winner.

 

BOAT TRIPS

The perfect way to experience the magnificent Na Pali Coast … sea turtles, leaping dolphins, whale-watching (in season) … is by boat. Kauai Sea Tours, operating out of Port Allen, offers both inflatable rafts and a large, well-equipped catamaran (with a water slide!) for unforgettable ocean adventures.

Places to go, people to meet….

Kilauea Lighthouse, a fixture since 1913, stands majestically on a peninsula with spectacular panoramic ocean views.  Also a great spot for bird watchers.

Limahuli Gardens, at the end of the road in Haena, features flora that grows nowhere else on the planet. Take the guided tour.  As you reach the hilltop (it's a gentle, easy climb) you'll gasp at the exquisite vistas.

Waimea Canyon, the Grand Canyon of Hawaii, is worth the drive when there’s good visibility. The varying earth tones of ridges and valleys at the canyon rim are striking. And the temperature is delightfully cool.