EXCURSIONES EN TIERRA

OVERVIEW

Enjoy a close-up view of one of Kauai’s signature cultural celebrations with premium seating at Luau Kalamaku. The experience begins at the traditional fire pit, where the roast pig is presented before dinner. Settle in for a plentiful buffet featuring local favorites and desserts. With your seat positioned in the second row behind the stage-front section, you will be well placed to appreciate the details of the performance. Hula dancers move to the rhythm of Hawaiian music as the story unfolds. Fire dancers then bring speed, skill and drama to the torch-lit stage. Through dance, narration and song, the production follows the Polynesian voyages that led the first Hawaiians across the Pacific.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Journey through Polynesian history in story and song.
• Witness the traditional fire-pit presentation.
• Sample a generous buffet of local dishes and sweets.
• See Hawaiian hula and thrilling fire dancing up close.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.

Hike a winding forest trail through some of the most spectacular countryside on Kauai, a natural wonderland that lives up to its nickname, the “Garden Island.”

After departing from the pier, you will learn about the history of Kauai from the local guide, who will regale you with stories of the “Garden Island.” The oldest and northernmost island in the Hawaiian chain, Kauai is covered by tropical rainforest, emerald-green valleys and jagged mountains of volcanic origin. It is a gorgeous setting for hiking through the forest.

The trail that you will follow covers about five miles and is immensely picturesque the entire time. As you hike through the lush wilderness, you will gaze out over some of the most extraordinary terrain in Hawaii. You can expect to see thundering waterfalls, primeval mountains and deep valleys, all created by ancient volcanic activity.

Along the way, the guide will point out the most interesting flora and fauna, especially those endemic to Kauai. You may see indigenous white plumbago in bloom, unusual ferns on the forest floor, brightly colored bromeliads clinging to tree branches and native forest birds such as the Kauai Amakihi and the Anianiau, the smallest of Hawaii’s honeycreepers.

Hike through the rainforest in Huleia National Wildlife Refuge to two spectacular waterfalls, where you may swim in the refreshing pools below. The refuge is closed to the public to protect the endangered species, but you will enjoy special access to this natural wonderland. As you follow a descending trail, the guide will describe the lush flora, which may include wild coffee, lobster claw heliconia and hau trees, the branches of which Hawaiians once used to make outrigger floats. Named for its stand of graceful bamboo, Bamboo Falls is the smaller of the cascades, while Papakolea Falls plummets down more than 60 feet. Both are breathtaking. Feel free to swim, stand under the waterfalls for a natural massage or simply relax on the rocky shore and behold nature’s beauty. Later, you will gaze out over Menehune Fish Pond, home to dozens of avian species such as the nēnē, Hawaii’s state bird.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Behold two little-known waterfalls in Huleia National Wildlife Refuge.
• Swim in the pools below the cascades or simply enjoy the beautiful peaceful settings.
• Learn about the surrounding flora and fauna, much of it indigenous and endangered.
• Admire nearby natural areas such as the Menehune Fish Pond.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing with a swimsuit underneath.
• Bring a hat, sunscreen and insect repellant.
• Wear water shoes or walking shoes with good traction.

OVERVIEW

Experience the natural beauty and relaxed charm of Kauai on a scenic journey through lush landscapes, river valleys, coastal viewpoints, and historic island landmarks. Cruise along the peaceful Wailua River to the fern-covered Fern Grotto, where Hawaiian music and tropical surroundings create a memorable cultural experience. Continue to the Kilauea Lighthouse and Wildlife Refuge area for sweeping ocean views and possible seabird sightings, then enjoy time in Hanalei with a quick lunch stop, views of Hanalei Bay and its iconic pier, and a glimpse of historic Waioli Huiia Church. Before returning to Nawiliwili, stop for photos at beautiful Opaekaa Falls, one of Kauai’s most beloved waterfalls.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Cruise along the peaceful Wailua River to the lush and legendary Fern Grotto.
• Capture beautiful island views at Opaekaa Falls, Wailua River Overlook, and the Kilauea Lighthouse area.
• Discover North Shore favorites including Anini Beach, Princeville, Hanalei Pier, Waioli Church, and Hanalei Taro Overlook.
• Enjoy an included picnic-style lunch and drink during your Kauai adventure.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Wear comfortable clothing and walking shoes for short walks and scenic stops.
• Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat for outdoor viewpoints and beach areas.

Hike in the rainforest, paddle a kayak and learn how ancient Hawaiians lived in harmony with nature. This river kayak adventure takes you into the Huleia National Wildlife Refuge, home to many of Hawaii’s native wetland birds and plants, and not open to the general public. You’ll paddle a comfortable, stable, sit-on-top double kayak. Listen to the legend of the Menehune Fishpond as you float past it. This ingenious pond was built to catch fish nearly 1,000 years ago.

Take a one-mile guided walk through the rainforest and learn about the unique plant and animal life of the area, and how the ancient Hawaiians lived in harmony with nature. See film locations from Raiders of the Lost Ark. And with Indiana Jones in mind, take a leap off a rope swing for a refreshing dip in a cool mountain pool. Stop for snacks and cold drinks at a fern-shrouded waterfall and make the return trip aboard a super cool, twin-hulled, powered Hawaiian canoe.

McBryde and Allerton Gardens are breathtaking wonders and part of the network of gardens and preserves that make up the National Tropical Botanical Garden, you’ll have an opportunity to explore both of these jewels on this tour.

Allerton Garden is a masterpiece of landscape design. Stroll through the expertly crafted, colorful garden rooms and marvel at the collection of exotic plants, towering Jurassic trees, sculptures and water features.

Further up the Lawai Valley in the McBryde Garden – the flagship garden of National Tropical Botanical Garden and home to the largest collection of native Hawaiian plants in existence. Discover spectacular displays of vivid tropical plants and visit a beautiful waterfall surrounded by the garden’s lush tropical flora.

A deli lunch is served stream side under a covered gazebo. After the tour you’ll have an opportunity to enjoy the South Shore Visitors Center and a stop at Spouting Horn blowhole before returning to the pier.

OVERVIEW

Discover Kauai’s iconic east and south shores on a three-hour adventure that captures a trio of the Garden Isle’s most stunning natural landmarks. Travel by bus to majestic Opaeka’a Falls, where a 151-foot cascade of water plunges into the lush Wailua River Valley. This iconic spot is a photographer’s dream, with no hiking required. Next, drive through the enchanting Tree Tunnel, where rows of Norfolk pines form a canopy overhead before unwinding at the shores of Poipu Beach, once hailed as the “Best Beach in America” by the Travel Channel and famous for sea turtle sightings. Swim or snorkel (bring your own equipment) in crystal-clear waters or bask on the golden sands. Return to port after creating lasting memories of the island’s iconic beauty.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Be awed by the beauty of Opaeka’a Falls as it thunders down over a sheer volcanic cliff.
• Drive through a tunnel of hundreds of eucalyptus trees that shade Maluhia Road.
• Enjoy the serenity of Poipu Beach, an oasis near the island’s southernmost tip.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Bring a swimsuit, towel and sunscreen.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.

OVERVIEW

Gain an overall understanding of Hawaiian history and culture by browsing the Kaua’i Museum, a perfect introduction to seeing the island’s natural beauty in person. Opened more than a century ago, the museum displays a remarkable range of artifacts from early Hawaiian life, the Hawaiian monarchy that continued until 1893 and Kauai’s volcanic formation. The guide will elaborate on the significance of the collection, which will make the attractions to come all the more relevant. One of the highlights will be seeing Opaeka’a Falls, which flows over a basalt cliff created after a volcanic eruption millions of years ago. Its source is the Wailua River, one of the few navigable rivers in all of Hawaii, which you will also behold from an elevated lookout. You will enjoy a cultural immersion at Lydgate Beach, where you will learn to hula, a uniquely Hawaiian dance accompanied by a chant or song.

HIGHLIGHTS

• See museum exhibits that showcase Hawaii’s unique history and culture.
• Take in sweeping views of Opaeka’a Falls and the Wailua River from scenic overlooks.
• Learn the basics of hula dancing at Lydgate Beach near the mouth of the Wailua River.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.

OVERVIEW

Experience two signature sides of Kilohana Plantation with a narrated railway journey followed by an evening of Hawaiian dining and entertainment. Settle into an elegant mahogany passenger car aboard the authentic narrow-gauge Kauai Plantation Railroad for a 30-minute ride through the estate. Along the way, lively conductors share stories of Kilohana’s plantation history and commercial farming on Kauai today. Pass fields and gardens planted with sugar cane, pineapple, banana, papaya, coffee, tropical flowers and hardwood trees. After the train ride, continue to Luau Kalamaku, where a lavish buffet of local delicacies and desserts awaits. Guests may also have the opportunity to gather near the traditional fire pit and watch the roast pig emerge. As torches blaze, graceful hula, energetic fire dancing, story and song bring the ancient Polynesian sea voyages to Hawaii to life.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Board an elegant railcar for a plantation journey.
• Discover Kilohana Plantation’s history and present-day farming.
• View tropical crops, flower gardens and hardwood trees along the route.
• Witness an immersive cultural show of dance, fire, and music

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.

Board a flat-bottom motor launch for your journey up the tranquil Wailua River as it floats past lush jungle landscapes on the way to Fern Grotto. This beautiful lava cavern, dripping with ferns, forms a natural amphitheater with excellent acoustics. At the grotto, keeping with island custom, a chorus will serenade you with the traditional Hawaiian Wedding Song. Travel by moto coach into the valley of the Sleeping Giant, where you'll find Opaekaa Falls, cascading down the hillside into a hidden pool.

OVERVIEW

Visit the movie locations for some of Hollywood’s most celebrated films and then snap your own pictures at gorgeous Opaeka’a Falls. As you approach the various film locations, you will watch videos of scenes that were shot there and then stand exactly in those spots. You will see the pier at Ahukini Landing from the John Wayne classic “Donavan’s Reef,” the park that played a significant role in Elvis Presley’s “Blue Hawaii” and Kilauea Lighthouse Overlook, where parts of “Jurassic Park” were shot. Other highlights include pausing for photos at picture-perfect locations for films such “Raiders of the Lost Ark,” “Honeymoon in Vegas” and “The Descendants” with George Clooney. As you will see, the Hanalei pier is so photogenic that it has been in numerous film classics, including “South Pacific.” As a parting shot, you will stop at Opaeka’a Falls, a setting that just begs to be captured on film.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Stand exactly where movie stars shot famous scenes from classic films.
• Visit locations for films such as “Jurassic Park,” “Blue Hawaii” and “South Pacific.”
• Spend free time in Hanalei, where you may enjoy lunch on your own.
• Capture the beauty of Oscar-worthy Opaeka’a Falls.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.

OVERVIEW

Explore Kauai on a 20-mile scenic hop-on, hop-off bus tour with guided narration, offering a fully customizable experience to explore nine unique attractions at your leisure, or stay on for a one-hour loop to see it all. Uncover the island’s history, culture and natural beauty while enjoying discounts at some local venues. Visit Kukui Grove Shopping Mall for boutiques, dining and Hawaiian cultural shows. At the *Kauai Museum, dive into the island’s history and artisan collections. Tee off at the oceanfront Wailua Golf Course (reservations required) or relax at family-friendly Lydgate Beach. Explore shops and eateries at Coconut Marketplace, wander through Smith’s Tropical Paradise Botanical Garden, or take a serene *river cruise to the Fern Grotto. Discover crafts at The Kapaia Stitchery and The Red Hibiscus and experience Kilohana Plantation’s railway tours, rum tastings and historic mansion.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Ride a bus looping around the “coconut coast” – Eastside of Kauai and hop off at the attractions whenever you like.
• Stay as long as you wish at each attraction and hop on another bus when you are ready, bus loops around approximately once per hour.
• Explore places as diverse as the Kauai Museum and the Kilohana Plantation.
• Opt to stay on the bus as it follows a panoramic 20-mile route that takes about an hour.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.

Soar amidst towering trees and enjoy breathtaking mountain vistas. Experience the wonder of Kauai’s tropical paradise on a series of suspension bridges and six ziplines, covering well over a mile in the air. Four of the six lines are side-by-side, which gives you the opportunity to share a shriek with a buddy. The 1,800 feet tandem lines provide the ultimate adrenaline rush. Catch your breath, then take a short hike through a swaying bamboo forest for a snack beside a forest pool. To cool off, grab the zipline that runs across pool and splash down.

OVERVIEW

Enjoy an extended evening at Kilohana Plantation that combines a scenic train ride, dinner in the restored manor house and premium seating at Luau Kalamaku. Begin aboard an elegant mahogany passenger car on the plantation’s authentic narrow-gauge railway. As you travel through fields of sugar cane, pineapple, banana, papaya and coffee, entertaining conductors share the history of the estate and the story of commercial farming on Kauai today. Continue to 22 North, the beautifully restored manor house that recalls the golden age of the island’s sugar industry. Admire its fine woods and Art Deco details before dining on Kauai-grown meats, fish and produce, including fruits and vegetables from Kilohana’s orchard and agricultural park. After dinner, you will be escorted to the luau and seated in the premium section. Hula, energetic fire dancing, story and song then bring the ancient Polynesian voyages to Hawaii to life beneath the glow of blazing torches.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Explore Kilohana Plantation by train
• View the agricultural landscape and learn about farming on Kauai
• Taste dishes featuring Kauai-grown meats, fish and produce
• Watch Luau Kalamaku from included premium seating

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.

OVERVIEW

Pedal a beach cruiser along the incredibly picturesque Ke Ala Hele Makalae bike path and stop at your pleasure at the eclectic shops and restaurants along the way. Although the paved coastal trail is about eight miles long, you can bike just a small segment of it or pedal much farther. Your beach cruiser has seven gears so you can easily negotiate the elevation changes. This being a self-guided adventure, you will be free to ride at your own speed and stay at the attractions until you are ready to go. A digital app will make navigation simple and clearly show the points of interest along the bike path. Or simply ask the local walkers, joggers and other bicyclists about their favorite places. Interpretive signs will describe the easy-to-access archaeological, cultural and historic sites nearby. The endless seascape may be best attraction of all, as it is spectacular the entire way.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Ride a beach cruiser along a scenic bike path that follows the sea.
• Pedal at your own pace, bike as far as you wish and stop whenever you please.
• Use the digital app that describes points of interest along the way.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.

OVERVIEW

Discover Kauai’s natural beauty, sacred history and cultural traditions on a full-day journey that concludes at Luau Kalamaku. Travel along the coast to Hikinaakala Heiau, an ancient place of worship for Native Hawaiians. Continue to Opaekaa Falls, one of Kauai’s notable waterfalls, before passing through Lihue and the town of Koloa, recognized as the birthplace of Hawaii’s sugar industry. A featured stop is Waimea Canyon, where exposed volcanic rock creates dramatic layers of red and brown across the landscape. Take time to appreciate the sweeping views and capture photographs from the lookout. Later, arrive at historic Kilohana Plantation for a traditional luau celebration. As torches blaze, hula, energetic fire dancing, story and song recount the ancient Polynesian voyages that brought the original Hawaiians to these islands.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Visit Hikinaakala Heiau and learn of its sacred significance.
• View the scenic waters of Opaekaa Falls.
• Pass through Lihue and historic Koloa.
• Photograph the colorful volcanic landscape of Waimea Canyon.
• Conclude with hula, fire dancing and storytelling at Luau Kalamaku.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.

OVERVIEW

Walk through the heart of Lihue and enjoy tastings of local products whose ingredients and cultural relevance will be described in detail. You will meet owners and chefs eager to engage you in “talk story,” a Hawaiian term for a casual conversation in which they share personal experiences about the foods, beverages and community. You can expect to drop by Aloha Ginger Beer for a spicy non-alcoholic soda, Rob’s Good Times Grill, a local's watering spot. It has a menu that includes everything from sampler plates of Hawaiian specialties such as Kalua pork and poi to fish sandwiches made with ono, the Hawaiian word for wahoo. You will also visit the Kauai Beer Company, a microbrewery known for its inventive artisan brews. Another stop will be made at the Alakoko Shop, which carries an array of locally made products perfect for bringing home.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Enjoy an array of local foods and beverages while walking around Lihue.
• Learn about each tasting and product from the chef or the merchant that offers it.
• Sample beverages such as ginger beer and locally brewed beer.
• Visit stores, markets and a sports bar for a glimpse into local life.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.

OVERVIEW

Settle in for a wonderfully scenic cruise off Nawiliwili on a 50-foot catamaran with plenty of deck space to move around as you please. A lengthy breakwater shelters Nawiliwili and its harbor so the seas should be nice and calm. The catamaran will skirt along the beautiful coast and up the Hulei’a River toward a national wildlife refuge that offers a secluded habitat for water birds such as the nēnē, a goose that is Hawaii’s state bird. You will also see the lava rock-walled Menehune Fish Pond that early Hawaiians built to raise and harvest fish for royalty. The pond is so culturally important that it has been listed on the National Register of Historic Places. To the east of the breakwater, you will find the Ninini Point Lighthouse, a beacon built at the entrance to the harbor in 1897. You may also see dolphins and humpback whales while cruising.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Take in the gorgeous scenery while cruising off Nawiliwili on a 50-foot catamaran.
• Cruise up the Hulei’a River to a wildlife refuge and a historically important fish pond.
• Pass the late 19th-century lighthouse that marks the rocky shore of Ninini Point.
• Enjoy snacks and unlimited cocktails throughout the cruise.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.

OVERVIEW

Cruise the tranquil Wailua River on a flat-bottom boat as an introduction to Kauai’s natural beauty and the natural wonders to come. As you travel up the only navigable river in all of Hawaii, you can’t help but be awed by the idyllic scenery. Ahead lies Fern Grotto, which was formed out of lava rock centuries ago. It is a gorgeous setting cooled by the mists of the waterfall. Listen to Hawaiian musicians play traditional wedding songs while viewing the fern-covered grotto which acts as a natural amphitheater. A panoramic drive into the Valley of the Sleeping Giant will bring you to Opaeka’a Falls, where the north branch of the Wailua River cascades over a sheer rock cliff into a hidden pool below. Even more thunderous is the Sprouting Horn, the blowhole that you will behold spewing water 50 feet high on the island’s southern shore.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Admire the island’s breathtaking beauty while cruising the Wailua River.
• Pause to hear Hawaiian songs at a fern-covered grotto with incredible acoustics.
• Behold the picture-perfect cascade Opaeka’a Falls from the ultimate vantage point.
• Watch seawater rush through a narrow blowhole and spray high into the air.
• Savor a buffet of classic Hawaiian dishes at local restaurant.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.

Discover Waimea Canyon, the breathtaking gorge in the heart of Kauai that is one of the island’s most dramatic natural attractions. You’ll begin your scenic drive by passing through a tunnel of trees, and traveling along Kauai’s south coast, on its one main highway.

From a lookout point high above, you’ll have a panoramic view of Waimea Canyon and its array of rainbow colors, created by the reds and browns of exposed volcanic rock mingled with the blues and greens of lush tropical vegetation. This magnificent gorge is 10 miles long, one mile wide and 3,000 feet deep. You’ll want to bring a camera to capture the spectacular beauty of this natural work of art.

OVERVIEW

Enjoy an evening of island flavors and theatrical storytelling at Luau Kalamaku on the grounds of Kilohana Plantation. Begin with a generous buffet featuring local specialties and a tempting selection of desserts. As part of the cultural experience, guests may be invited to watch the roast pig emerge from the traditional fire pit. The atmosphere builds as torches blaze and the stage comes alive with graceful hula. Powerful fire dancing adds energy and drama to the celebration. Music, narration and dance trace the ancient Polynesian sea journeys that led the original Hawaiians to the islands. This engaging combination of cuisine and performance offers a colorful introduction to Hawaiian culture and tradition.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Celebrate Hawaiian culture at historic Kilohana Plantation.
• Observe the traditional fire-pit presentation when offered.
• Enjoy graceful hula and high-energy fire dancing.
• Follow the story of Polynesian voyaging through music and narration.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.

On this introduction to the “Garden Isle,” you’ll explore two of Kauai’s most dramatic natural attractions - the 3,000-foot deep Waimea Canyon and the lush landscapes lining the Wailua River, including the famed Fern Grotto.

From a lookout point high above, you’ll have a panoramic view of Waimea Canyon and its array of rainbow colors, created by the reds and browns of exposed volcanic rock mingled with the blues and greens of lush tropical vegetation. This magnificent gorge is 10 miles long, one mile wide and 3,000 feet deep. You’ll want to bring a camera to capture the spectacular beauty of this natural work of art.

Board a riverboat for a cruise up the tranquil Wailua River as it floats past jungle landscapes on the way to Fern Grotto. This beautiful lava cavern, dripping with ferns, forms a natural amphitheater with excellent acoustics. At the grotto, keeping with island custom, a chorus will serenade you with the traditional Hawaiian Wedding Song.