Outdoor Adventures in Kaua’i

Kaua’i is known as the Garden Isle for its abundance of lush plant life and stunning natural scenery. The mountainous island is a playground of outdoor activities, both water-borne and on dry land.

Hiking trails abound, with highlights that include Waimea Canyon, the island’s equivalent of the Grand Canyon, and the rugged and dramatic Na Pali Coast. Hiking trails range from flat, short options to long quad-burners, plus several good options for overnight hikes. One popular trek is the Kalalau Trail along the Na Pali coast — be sure to start early to avoid the hottest part of the day and score a coveted parking spot at the trailhead.

Water sports on the ocean include surfing, snorkeling, stand-up paddleboarding, swimming and boogie boarding. Some beaches are better suited for calmer-water activities like snorkeling, and allow you to see an abundance of fish right off the beach. If you’re unsure about ocean conditions, ask a local or go with a guide.

The mountainous west side is home to the Na Pali coast, the scene of movies like King Kong and Jurassic Park. See the entire coast on a 70-mile, round-trip Zodiac boat with companies like Blue Ocean Adventures, which take you inside sea caves and offers snorkeling and whale watching.