Kaua’i Hawaii Guide

Its four distinct geographical regions are the main reason for the Magic you will experience when vacationing on the Island of Kaua'i's 550 square miles. Kaua'i's western side is the site of what is possibly the most beautiful stretch of coastline in all of Hawaii, the Na Pali Coast. Kaua'i's North Shore has all the mesmerizing beaches, emerald mountains, tumbling waterfalls and rainbow-spanned vistas you would expect
to find on Hawaiian vacation brochures.

The island's South Shore as the sunny weather and unspoiled beaches which attract most of its visitors, and is the home of the Po'i'Pu Resort. Finally, Kaua'i's East Side is where you find its commercial and residential heart, its government offices, and its largest city, Kapa'a.

You will enjoy your visit Kaua'i much more if you time it to suit your taste in activities. If you are planning to spend your days enjoying its magnificent beaches, be aware that the huge surf off its North Shore can make those beaches un-swimmable during the winter months, while it is South Shore gets big waves during the summer. Your best opportunities for whale watching occurring February, although some whale show up as early as December, and some remain until April.

The Island's Kalalau Trail may be off-limits following winter rains, and you can forget along the Na Pali coast during the winter months. Almost all of Kaua'i's western shore attractions, in fact, are available only during the dry season. At least busiest seasons are between mid-June in early September, and from mid-December to early April. You will pay more for your accommodations during those months, and you will also pay a price in crowded hotels, and congested roads and beaches.

One thing remains the same year round on the island of Kaua'i is its temperature, at an average of a delightful 78 degrees Fahrenheit. Kaua'i is coolest in the early morning and late evening, and swimmers can expect water temperatures of between 74 and 80°. Vacationing on Kaua'i during the rainy season between December and March can be disappointing unless you restrict your travels to its southern and western areas. The biggest advantage of enjoying Kaua'i during the rainy season is that you will experience its plant life and waterfalls at their most spectacular.

Packing for your trip to Kauai will require some care. Make sure to include a sunscreen or sunblock which is both waterproof and has an SPF rating of at least 25, to protect you from the strong beach sun. Also include UV, protective sunglasses, and a camera with either lots of memory, or plenty of rolls of film. Light clothing is fine all year long, but make sure you have protection from the rain if you are traveling during the winter.

Get a map which guides you not only to the islands important tourist areas, but one that will help you find it off-the-main-drag attractions. If you plan to hike in its outlying areas, bring plenty of water because you cannot rely on the safety of its streams. You will need sturdy hiking boots, insect repellent, and whatever water sports equipment will let you take advantage of all the beach-related activities on this marvelous island escape!