Old is gold- this adage is proven true in the oldest of the Hawaiian Islands- Kaua’i. This stunningly scenic island certainly has enjoyed million years’ advantage unlike its younger cousins. The natural elements of water and wind had their play in carving the most astounding cliffs with pleats cloaked in the deep rich velvet of green. With the beautiful beaches that are typical of the archipelago and spectacular coral reefs, it is no wonder Kaua’i has proven to be an irresistible destination for nature lovers.

History

This botanical utopia has a rich history befitting its age. It is famed as the first landing point of Captain Cook, and this sole unconquered island is also where the establishment of sandalwood and sugar industries were first rooted. Kaua’i distinctive regions- Lihue, East Side, West Side, South Shore and North Shore each offer individual characters with unique attractions and beautiful attractions.

Lihue

Lihue is the island’s administrative quarters with the commercial and government centres. Its origins as a plantation village is also the reason for this region’s multi-cultural heritage. The oceanfront region still has variety of attractions among its commercial buildings. These interesting places include the Kaua’i Museum where the island’s history is revealed through traditional artifacts and dioramas. A must visit sight in Lihue has to be the awe-inspiring Wailua Falls, the cottony white twin cascades that leap off the sheer ledge.

Around the island

The East Side, also known as the Coconut Coast, is home to Fern Grotto. This large cave set among lush foliage is a popular wedding venue. Other scenic attractions in this populous district is the Opaekaa, one of the major waterfalls in Kaua’i that is also the most accessible, the popular Kapa’a town. The West Side’s historic sights and magnificent Waimea Canyon and mesmerizing views from the Koke’e State Park, make up the scenic landscape in this region.

The South Shore is where the Old Koloa Town, a quaint and picturesque village that leads to the beautiful Poipu Beach. Travelling through the Koloa Heritage Trail take visitors through some of the most important and fascinating cultural, historical sites of the region. The North Shore’s attractions are the ultimate manifestations of the island’s enchanting beauty. While the majestic Na Pali Coast can easily overshadow the other attractions, it is worthwhile to visit the charming Hanalei Town where stretches of taro field are refreshing sight. There is exciting whale-watching at the Kilauea Point, part of which is also set aside for wildlife sanctuary.

With stunning beauty and magnificent sights at just about every corner of Kaua’i, this island is a wonder of nature.

The other twin of the dual islands- Moloka’i and Lana’i – the latter was formed as part of two adjacent volcanoes that are now extinct. One of the smallest inhabited islands in the Hawaiian archipelago, and possibly the most secluded, Lana’i’s spectacular beauty lies not only in the abundance of nature but also its freedom from human clamor and the peaceful intimacy. Unlike its bigger and busier island cousins, Lana’i offers two distinct worlds of luxurious resort vacations and rugged trails for the adventure-seeking traveler. Once home to the largest pineapple plantation in the world, it is now converted to a resort island, allowing better access to the island’s numerous beaches, cliffs and ancient ruins.

Traveling around

For a relatively tiny island, Lana’i offers a myriad of activities to suit any travel preferences. As there is no public transport- another evidence of minimal human disruption to this rustic island, moving around Lana’i requires a private car. Be it for family fun, experience in eco-tourism or leisurely 4-wheel driving along one of the world’s most untainted landscapes of beautiful bay, volcanic ridges, among others, Lana’i is a treasure waiting to be discovered.

Lanai’ City, in central Lana’i is home to almost all of the island’s residents. Still resplendent as the classic Hawaiian plantation town, the city’s history is entwined with the once bustling pineapple plantation, then owned by the world famous Dole Cannery decades ago. The present day community’s social activities still centre around the Dole Park. The Luahiwa Petrogylphs (rock engravings) found at the Palawai Basin, the remaining eroded wall of Lana’i volcanic crater, is one of Hawaii’s richest collection of such ancient engravings.

Vacation tips

The Manele and Hulopo’e Bays are perfect places for families to enjoy the sea and sand. Great for picnics and snorkeling, these form part of Lana’i stretch of alluring beach fronts. Nature lovers will not want to miss the dirt track Munro Trail, a 20mile drive along pine-studded track which is part of a volcanic ridge. The typical 2 hour journey that includes hiking, rewards visitors with a breathtaking view of all the main islands of Hawaii. A most unique attraction to visit is the Garden of Gods, a visual oddity to say the least. This rock garden formed from centuries of erosion, has resulted in shapes and structures that are beyond imagination, and in various hues and vibrant shades ranging from oranges to blues. The enticing island of Lana’i is indeed perfect to feel lost in the grandeur of nature.

Formed as part of dual adjacent volcanoes that are not longer active, Moloka’i was once attached to the second largest island in the Hawaiian archipelago, Maui. The other appendages to Maui were Moloka’i’s so-called twin island, Lanai and Kaho’olawe. The peak of eastern Moloka’i is covered with thick rainforest and the northern shore is bordered by the highest and steepest sea cliffs in the world, and paving way for expansive green valleys. Once bare of inhabitants, it was only with the popularity of beach tourists, settlers soon made home in this idyllic island. Still continuing to be less populated than the other tourist magnet islands, accommodations in Moloka’i are usually located in the west end of the island.

Scenic nature

The most scenic spot in Moloka’i is the home of the earliest Polynesian settlers, the Halawa Valley with dense rich foliage and breathtaking waterfalls. Close to the original settlement, there are ruins of ancient temples known as heiau. There are guided tours and trek trails along the meandering trails passing rivers, streams and dirt roads surrounded by the lush vegetation. While avid trekkers will want to join the guided hikes, which are the only access to the vast valley, drive down the eastern coast of Moloka’i, passing ancient sites, quaint churches and sparsely populated villages will also bring travelers to the valley as the destination for the drive.

Other popular hiking trails are at the Kamakou Rain Forest, one of the most unspoiled tracts in Hawaii, Kalaupapa Trail at Kalaupau National Historical Park which is now a memorial, among others. While there are some stretches of pristine beach, Moloka’i’s true beauty lies among the lush greenery in the valleys and rainforests.