Exploring Natural Beauty on Kauai

Waimea Canyon (the "Grand Canyon" of the Pacific) in Koke'e State Park is where you feel like you're at the highest point of a new discovery while standing on an uninhabited tropical island like in Peter Jackson's King Kong. Make sure to bring a windbreaker, I was not prepared for how windy it was, but my mom (the smart one) came prepared.

Note: If you are scuba diving during your visit to Kauaʻi, you should wait at least 24 hours before visiting this location due to the higher elevation of Waimea Canyon and Kōkeʻe State Park.

Be sure to explore the multitude of trails throughout the island, including Kalalau Trail and the ones at Nā Pali Coast State Wilderness Park. There are some nice small towns like Poipu, where you will find a good selection of local and fine dining, golf course, historical sights, boat tours and a great beach.

I also recommend visiting Hanalei: a cozy little village on the north shore with great eats and charming boutiques.

Day Trips in Kauai

Eco boat tours depart from Port Allen on the West Side and get you up close to the mountainous Nā Pali coastline. Explore rainforests in the valleys, take in the fora and fauna, and the enjoy the waterfalls, including Wailua Falls which was featured in the opening scene of Fantasy Island and Manawaiopuna Falls, which was featured in Jurassic Park.

You must also visit Mount Waialeale, a shield volcano with a valley of a rainforest. It's one of the rainiest spots on Earth, which you can see with its lush velvet green carpet. Make sure to bring a rain coat and a good windbreaker for the warm wind at the top.

Cheap local eats in Kauai

Hanalei Poke Food Truck: Touted to have the freshest fish in Hawaii, Chef-owner Jeremy Burwell should know since he is also his own fisherman. A favorite of Guy Fieri on Food Network's Diners, Drive-ins and Dives. Make sure to try the kealia bowl. Make sure to also order the Ahi-tuna poke mixed with watermelon, mango, avocado, fresh mint, basil and cilantro. Incredibly refreshing. Vegan options available.

Pacific Rim Cuisine was founded in Hawaii with influences from California, Hawaii, Polynesia, Japan, Thailand and Indonesian cultures. There is no better place in Kauai to enjoy this than Beach House Restaurant. They have many types of wine, beer and tropical cocktails on tap.

Farm-and-fisherman-to-table with a beachy vibe who adjusts their menu to the season to provide the freshest and local ingredients. Their Monkeypod Mai Tai with it's delicious Beach House restaurant liliko-honey foamy top is a must.