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. Venture further and encounter the Spouting Horn Blowhole, one of Kauai’s most famous natural wonders. Watch as waves crash against the lava rock formations, forcing water to burst skyward in dramatic spouts. Finally, unwind 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.
• Watch the groaning blowhole Spouting Horn spray water skyward much like Old Faithful.
• 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

Embark on an intimate journey to Waimea Canyon and beyond. The journey starts on the grounds of Pa’ula’ula, once a thriving kingdom and eventually a Russian fort. Stopping at different viewpoints along the Canyon to witness and mesmerized at one of nature’s master piece from different viewpoints, each more stunning than the last. Immerser yourself in Kauai culture and folklore from your local guide, learn about some of the most intimate island secrets and tales. A six-million-year journey through once raging volcanoes, canyons, waterfalls and ragged coastlines, to immense cultural heritage of the Hawaiian people and its traditions. Taking back with you a true sense of this magical place not only with the best photo opportunities from multiple angles but also in the heart and soul.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Behold the natural wonders of Waimea Canyon, the Grand Canyon of the Pacific.
• Stop at canyon lookouts for different perspectives of the crested buttes and deep gorges.
• Notice how the river has carved the canyon out of red volcanic rock over the eons.
• Meander along a nature trail and browse the Koke’e Natural History Museum.
• Visit a fort that the Hawaiians on Kauai built for the Russians in the early 1800s.

HELPFUL HINTS

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

Admire the endless beauty of Kauai by cruising through the jungle to the Fern Grotto, exploring a wildlife refuge and stopping in an idyllic bay in the shadow of lush mountains. Depart from the pier and enjoy a leisurely drive north to a marina on the Wailua River, one of the few navigable waterways in Hawaii. Starting high atop Mount Waialeale in the center of Kauai, the river tranquilly weaves through 20 miles of thick jungle. While cruising, you will stop at the geological wonder Fern Grotto, a lava-rock cave covered with tropical flora. Being a natural amphitheater, the grotto provides a wondrous setting and fine acoustics for the musicians who will serenade you with traditional Hawaiian tunes. Continuing on, you will head toward Kilauea National Wildlife Refuge to see its towering lighthouse and bird sanctuary. The refuge’s ocean cliffs and grassy slopes provide a fine habitat for some of the largest populations of nesting seabirds in Hawaii. Be on the lookout for red-footed boobies, Laysan albatross, and wedge-tailed shearwaters. (The lighthouse is open Wednesday through Saturday. When the lighthouse is closed, we visit the overlook area for about 20 minutes.) Then, you will stop for a quick lunch in Hanalei town at Ching Young Village. After that you will be treated to a view of beautiful, crescent-shaped Hanalei Bay and its signature pier. The landmark Waioli Huiia Church stands nearby, a reminder of the missionaries who settled here in the 1830s. Finally, you will depart the North Shore and return to Nawiliwili, but not before stopping for photos of the 150-foot Opaekaa Falls. Opaekaa means “rolling shrimp,” which were once abundant in the stream.

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.

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

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.

PREBOOK ONLY. NOT AVAILABLE FOR BOOKING ONBOARD. Take a narrated tour through fruit orchards and exotic tropical flower gardens. Then feast your eyes on hulas and fire dances and dine on a lavish luau. Climb aboard one of the elegant, mahogany passenger cars of the authentic, narrow-gauge Kauai Plantation Railroad for a 30-minute journey. You’ll be entertained by fun loving conductors, and learn about Kilohana Plantation history and commercial farming on Kauai today, as you travel through fields of sugar cane, pineapple, banana, papaya, coffee, tropical flowers and hardwood trees.

The luau is an essential part of the Hawaiian experience, and the cultural extravaganza at the historic Kilohana Plantation is a feast for all the senses. . You’ll have the option to see the traditional fire pit and watch the roast pig emerge, a special treat to accompany the already lavish buffet of local delicacies and desserts. While torches blaze, graceful hulas and energetic fire dances will entertain you, and the ancient sea voyages that brought the original Hawaiians to these islands from Polynesia will be brought to life in story and song.

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.

Enjoy an extended visit to Kilohana Plantation, with a ride on a train, dinner at the manor house, and a luau show of hula, fire dances and tales told in story and song. Begin your tour of Kilohana Plantation aboard one of the elegant, mahogany passenger cars of an authentic, narrow gauge railway. You’ll be entertained by fun loving conductors, and learn about plantation history and commercial farming on Kauai today, while traveling through fields of sugar cane, pineapple, banana, papaya, coffee, tropical flowers and hardwood trees.

Step back into the golden age of sugar at Kilohana’s perfectly restored manor house, 22 North. Richly crafted from fine woods with Art Deco details, it served as a family homestead and site for elaborate social gatherings. You’ll dine here on Kauai grown meats, fish and produce, including fruits and vegetables from Kilohana’s orchard and agricultural park.

After dinner, you’ll be escorted to the Kalamaku luau show. While torches blaze, graceful hulas and energetic fire dances will entertain you, and the ancient sea voyages that brought the original Hawaiians to these islands from Polynesia will be brought to life in story and song.

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.

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.

PREBOOK ONLY. NOT AVAILABLE FOR BOOKING ONBOARD. Enjoy the beauty, culture and tastes of Kauai, from sacred sites, waterfalls to the heart of the island, followed by a traditional Hawaiian Luau at the historic Kilohana Plantation. Drive along the coast and visit Hikinaakala Heiau, where ancient Hawaiians worshipped. Continue up to Opaekaa Falls, one of Kaui’s major waterfalls. YYou’ll pass through the town of Lihue and through Koloa, the birthplace of the sugar industry in Hawaii.

A highlight of your tour is a visit to Waimea Canyon, it will greet you with a spectacular array of colors created by the reds and browns of exposed volcanic rock, make sure to have your camera to capture this stunning sight.

Complete your day at a traditional luau and immerse yourself in Hawaiian culture at Luau Kalamaku. While torches blaze, graceful hulas and energetic fire dances will entertain you and the ancient sea voyages that brought the original Hawaiians to these islands from Polynesia will be brought to life in story and song.

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

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.

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.

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.

OVERVIEW

Learn to prepare several traditional Hawaiian dishes in a hands-on cooking class and dine on your creations afterwards. The venue for this innovative culinary immersion will be the kitchen of Cooking Kaua’i, a plantation cottage on the island’s southern shore. Each kitchen station will be outfitted with everything necessary – from aprons to fresh ingredients – so you can fully focus on the preparation of four classic Hawaiian dishes that might be found in a Hawaiian Corner Store. The chef will show you step-by-step how to make favorites such as nachos topped with freshly caught ahi yellowfin tuna and Spam musubi, a popular snack in which the Spam is grilled, served on a block of rice and wrapped with a band of nori seaweed. You will also likely prepare a poke bowl full of vegetables, rice and a flavorful protein. Butter mochi is typically the dessert. As you will discover, it is easy to prepare and like all the dishes absolutely delicious.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Join a hands-on cooking class in the kitchen of a plantation cottage.
• Prepare four traditional Hawaiian dishes by following the chef’s step-by-step instructions.
• Learn about the history of the dishes and how their ingredients were sourced.
• Enjoy the dishes, which include a tasty dessert, for lunch.

HELPFUL HINTS

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

PREBOOK ONLY. NOT AVAILABLE FOR BOOKING ONBOARD. The luau is an essential part of the Hawaiian experience and the cultural extravaganza at the historic Kilohana Plantation is a feast for all the senses. You’ll gather around the traditional fire pit and watch the roast pig emerge, a special treat to accompany the already lavish buffet of local delicacies and desserts. While torches blaze, graceful hulas and energetic fire dances will entertain you, and the ancient sea voyages that brought the original Hawaiians to these islands from Polynesia will be brought to life in story and song. Enjoy the Luau Kalamaku with your premium seating, second row back from the stage.

The luau is an essential part of the Hawaiian experience, and the cultural extravaganza at the historic Kilohana Plantation is a feast for all the senses. You’ll have the option to gather around the traditional fire pit and watch the roast pig emerge, a special treat to accompany the already lavish buffet of local delicacies and desserts. While torches blaze, graceful hulas and energetic fire dances will entertain you, and the ancient sea voyages that brought the original Hawaiians to these islands from Polynesia will be brought to life in story and song.

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.

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.