Kauai is called the “Garden Isle” because it’s lush and full of natural beauty. It’s geologically the oldest of the main Hawaiian Islands and fourth largest in size. It seems to be the favorite island of people who visit Hawaii, and I believe the natural beauty is what ranks it so highly. My cousins are celebrating a very special wedding anniversary and flying from the East Coast to Kauai. Having lived in Hawaii, though not on Kauai, I have been a frequent visitor to the Garden Isle, so I was happy to suggest some of my favorite beautiful sites to see. I suggested four that would not only showcase Kauai’s beauty, but also take them to different parts of the island, as well.

Wailua Falls Overlook is a two-tiered waterfall. Almost every time I’ve been there, I’ve seen a rainbow in the falls. Spotting rainbows are one of the magical sites in Hawaii, and I never grow tired of seeing them. Early morning at the falls is a nice quiet time, though certainly it’s a special site no matter when you go.

Wailua Falls Overlook. Image source: https://www.hawaiidiscount.com/tours/kauai/island-sightseeing-tours/scenic-hanalei-tour.htm

Poipu Beach is a destination you can enjoy for the whole day. If the waters are calm enough, it’s a great spot for snorkeling. The calm times tend to be in the morning. The afternoon ocean brings on the surf at Poipu, so get out your boogy boards and have fun. Don’t forget to stay for the sunset!

Poipu Beach. Image source: https://villasatpoipukai.com/poipu-beach/

Waimea Canyon Drive might be one of my favorite sites on Kauai, perhaps because it’s so amazing to see such a magnificent canyon in a place that is so associated with the ocean and mountains. I find the panoramic views breathtaking and always make a point of visiting the canyon when I’m on Kauai. There are many lookout points for taking in the views. And if you’re the adventurous type, there’s also a Canyon Trail for hiking.

Waimea Canyon Drive. Image source: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Waimea_Canyon_State_Park

Na Pali Coast offers an opportunity for a boat tour. I actually took a helicopter tour of this area and that was quite scary, but exciting too. The boat tour gives you a special vantage point from which to enjoy the area. Looking from water to land, especially at Kauai, is beautiful. So whether you enjoy the Na Pali Coast by sea, air, or hiking some of the trails, do make this an outing you do not miss.

Na Pali Coast. Image source: https://www.hawaii-guide.com/kauai/the-na-pali-coast

So there you have it, my top four sites to see on Kauai. You’ll have pretty much seen the whole island in all her glory, and glorious she is! If you had to add anything to this list to see or do while on Kauai, what would that be? Let’s give my cousins as many ways to enjoy the sites as possible :) Thanks, everyone!