Why Kauai...

Recently I asked my friends who had a 5 day excursion; to track their favorite places on a trip to Kauai. Definitely one the next stops on my wishlist. What I love is that there's not much you can't do in Kauai; here's a little blurb of things to enjoy on all the shores...

North Shore ~ Known as the more tropical, rainy part of Kauai, it is loved by locals who like to surf, enjoy nature and watch wildlife at Kilauea Point National Refuge, also you can take in the view of miles of beautiful beaches. Stay in Hanalei Bay at the Hanalei Colony Resort. Fishing, camping, golfing, kayaking, hiking and a helicopter tour later, you'll be hungry for one of the best restaurants. Choose Sushi Blues, the Tahiti Nui lounge, Postcards café or Kalypso. Stay 2-3 days, and don't miss the most beautiful lush river valley hike on the Na Pali coast, then head to the sun on the South Shore.

South Shore ~ Stop off here for a few days for a sunny retreat. Visit Poipu beach and Maha'ulepu beach. Whale watch from your beach towel, go diving with the fishes, play tennis and finish the day with healing spa therapies. Dine upscale at Roy's, family friendly Brennecke's or the Beach House Restaurant, set right on the waves in Spouting Horn. Stay at Poipu's Plantation Resort or the Grand Hyatt.

West Wing ~ Rainbows, canyon views, coastal and forest hikes, this casual side of the island is a natural wonderland. It's treasures are Waimea Canyon, Salt Pond Beach Park and Hanapepe Valley. Things are more slow paced here in the dry climate, hiking and camping after pampering on the South Shore sounds idealic. If you don't want to pitch a tent, stay at Waimea's Plantation Cottages. Rent a four-wheel open top jeep and when you've seen the end of the horizon, stop at Waimea Brewing Company for beers on tap.

East Side ~ Lastly, head to the "Royal Coconut Coast, " for some history and culture and don't wake the Sleeping Giant. Only 30 minutes from Poipu and Hanalei, you can jet here for a day. Set your sights on Wailua Falls along the roadside, and head behind the Coconut Market Place in Kapa'a to see live music at Trees, a new restaurant/bar.

For more information on weather, how to get there and accomodations visit Kauai's online visitors bureau.

Aloha!