Showing posts with label Kauai. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Kauai. Show all posts

Kauai vacation on a budget

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When you are planning your Kauai, Hawaii, vacation it would do you good to consider the best times of year to travel, and these are not the best times of year regarding the weather or local festivals, but the best times to travel that are the least expensive. Many individuals are dreaming of vacationing in Hawaii, and while the location of the islands makes it a beautiful destination year round, there are some times of the year to travel that are considerably less expensive than others. If you know when to travel and other ways to save money you will be able to have an amazing Kauai vacation on your budget.

For example, the fall month when school is in session and the summer has just ended is a good time to travel because hotels and airfare will be cheaper. Generally, the low and shoulder seasons in Kauai are mid September through mid December and January through May. The summer months are the most expensive in regard to airfare and hotels and frequently everything is booked up many months in advance. As a result, you should travel in low season where you will get a better deal, not have to share the island with so many visitors, and simply enjoy the beauty of Kauai. Also, while the low season might be a bit cooler than the summer, it is not exceptionally so and the sun still shines and the ocean is still warm for swimming and other activities. Since Hawaii is great for sunshine and tourist activities year round there is really no reason why you should not travel in the off season.

Beyond saving significantly on your accommodations and airfare when you travel in the off and shoulder seasons, there are other ways you can save on your Kauai vacation as well.
Other Ways to Save in Kauai

Rent a vacation rental condo or Home
Many individuals book hotel rooms in Kauai to enjoy during their vacation. However, hotel rooms are expensive and do not offer the same type of comfort and privacy that a home or condo could offer. Also, hotels in Kauai are very expensive, significantly more expensive than the equivalent cost of renting a condo or home for a week, month, or the duration of your vacation. There are many homes, cottages, and condos that are available for rent on the island of Kauai. In addition, many of them have ocean front views, extras like TV, DVD, Internet, kitchen, luxury linens, as well as a variety of other options you can choose from. Additionally, there are condos and homes you can rent with one bedroom and others with significantly more. The size home you need depends on the amount of travelers needing accommodation.

If you are interested in renting a Kauai vacation rental home, cottage, or condo then you should look online for the variety of options that are available. You can find something that is just the right size to meet your travel party needs and in the right price range to meet your budget. Remember, when you travel in the off season your accommodations will be less expensive than if you decide to travel in high season. Not to mention you will have more options and be able to choose the best location to meet your needs.

Cook Some Meals
Many individuals go on vacation in Kauai and end up spending more money on food than other diversions. This should not be the case and if you are staying in a hotel or condo then there is no reason for you not to cook some meals from local ingredients while on vacation. You will save hundreds of dollars by simply eating in at least once or twice each day. Plus, if you have any dietary requirements it will be easier to meet these as well by cooking in. All of the money you save can be used on more exciting activities available on the island!

Look for Internet Discounts
The Internet has it all, even discounts for accommodations, water sports, spas, and any other activity you might want to engage in on Kauai. All you have to do is put forth some effort to search the web and find a variety of options with discounts. Sometimes the discount applies to a certain day or timeframe, or a certain number of people, however by searching the web you will find discounts that will save you lots of money. The easiest way is to simply visit a search engine, type in “Kauai Discounts” and wait for the results to be returned. You will find so many things to look through that you will be surprised of all the discounts really available. Take advantage of them, enjoy the island, and save money.

By choosing to travel to Kauai in the off season and stay in a condo or home rental, cook some of your own meals, and look for discounts you will end up saving yourself hundreds or even thousands of dollars on your Kauai vacation. This is a significant amount of money and will allow you to engage in some of the Kauai activities and tours that are not to be missed. You might think that despite these recommendations a Kauai vacation will cost more than you can ever afford, however this is not necessarily the case and you should do some research and will find that sometimes Kauai really is an affordable destination and a great place for a family vacation, honeymoon, or even Spring Break. Don't miss traveling to this amazing destination simply because you believe it is out of your price range. Instead, take advantage of all of the money saving opportunities and book your once in a lifetime trip to Kauai, Hawaii, and enjoy the island life.


About the author:
Stephanie Coburn is the marketing director for wailua bay view, an oceanfront kauai vacation rental. She has personally researched and experienced many of the activities and destinations graced with Hawaiian culture. Learn more at http://www.wailuabay.com .

Article Source: http://www.Free-Articles-Zone.com

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The Forbidden Island

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If you love a mystery, consider a vacation on Kauai, Hawaii.

Here's the mystery: what's it like on the neighboring Hawaiian island of Ni'ihau? This 550-square-mile island is the westernmost of the main Hawaiian islands and has been privately owned since 1864 by the Robinson family, which forbids tourists.

Ni'ihau (Nee-ee-how) is visible from the southwest shore of Kauai, lying low on the horizon 17 miles away. There are 200 or so native Hawaiians who live there and speak the Hawaiian language. In fact, it's the only place the language is spoken any more. It is taught in the island's only school, which goes K-8.

Islanders of course are free to leave and come back, so many of them do. They need to in order to get provisions from Kauai to live on the dry island, which is in the rain shadow of the ancient volcano cone on Kauai, Wai-ale-ale, "the wettest spot on earth" at 460 inches per year of rainfall. The Robinson family, which owns Ni'ihau, has maintained sheep ranches there.

A stunning form of folk art comes from Ni'ihau. These are Ni'ihau shell leis, tiny shells strung from many strands. These tiny luminous shells come in various colors, and so whole families collect them and sort them for size and color. Then the artist, usually a woman, sets to work, punching a hole in each shell using an awl often made from a bicycle spoke (there are no cars on the island). About half the shells shatter at this point. She chooses colors in such a way as to make a final product that is textured with color.

These tiny shells are still found on Ni'ihau, but not on neighboring Kauai where agricultural runoff has tended to kill off the shell-makers. The resulting shell leis are rare, hard to find, and precious. But if you look hard on Kauai, you can find them!

Hawaiian legend has it that the volcano goddess Pele had her original home on Ni'ihau. Then she traveled to Kauai, Oahu, and moved eastward until she found the Big Island of Hawaii, where she is today. Scientists say that the Hawaiian islands were formed as a plate of earth's crust moved slowly across an active lava vent. But Kauai was formed before Ni'ihau, which is sort of a side vent from the volcano that formed Kauai. As the crust moved slowly, Kauai was formed, then Oahu, and so on. Ni'ihau's current form is as an eroded lava dome on the eastern side of the island. Much of the rest is flat and sandy, with a couple of freshwater lakes.

It's possible to find a map of Ni'ihau, and pictures of its rock formations. But how can you go and see? In fact, the Robinson family is allowing a few forms of tourism now. Some helicopter tours from Kauai are allowed to land on remote beaches. And you can take a hunting safari, to control populations of feral bighorn sheep and Polynesian boars. In addition, scuba divers regularly dive off Ni'ihau.

All that is available from Kauai, Ni'ihau's big sister island 17 miles away. Kauai has immense charms of its own; not only does it have the usual beaches and surf, but it has incredible beauty on its northwest coast, called Na Pali, or The Cliffs.


Article Copyright 2007 by Phyllis Wheeler.

About the author:
Phyllis Wheeler is a writer and webmaster who lives in St. Louis, Missouri, USA. Find out more about Niihau and a Kauai, Hawaii, vacation at her Web site, http://www.Kauai-Treasure-Island.com .


Article Source: http://www.Free-Articles-Zone.com

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How do I choose which island to get married on?

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From far away, it can be confusing knowing which of 4 beautiful and exotic islands to choose from for your beach wedding in Hawaii. Here is a brief breakdown of the 4 main Hawaiian islands based on my 10+ years living and traveling on these islands:

Oahu-This is where Waikiki and Honolulu are located. It is NOT the Big island, which is a common misconception. This island is where most of the people in the state of Hawaii live, and thus it is very much like a big city you would find on the United States mainland dropped onto an island setting, at least until you leave the Honolulu/Waikiki area. If you are looking for nightlife traffic and tourists, this is a good place to go. If you are looking for a quintessential trip to tropical Hawaii, this is not the best choice.

Maui-This is the next most populated and busiest island. It is not really like a major city, but it does have a lot of people, city grid-like streets, and reminds many of southern California put on an island. However, it is possible to get away on Maui if you head to the west side (which is dry) or around the other side of the island towards Hana (where unfortunately there are few to no places for tourist accommodation). Maui is full of social butterflies and its great nightlife is not consolidated into one place like on Oahu.

Kauai-This is the beautiful garden island and it is filled with tropical flowers, botanical gardens and lush beauty. Kauai does not have grid-like streets and is considered the ‘country’ get away from the ‘city’ of Oahu. It is the least populated of the Hawaiian islands. Kauai has a valley called Kalalau valley which many guide books and people consider to be the most beautiful place on the islands (I think it’s actually the most beautiful place on Earth!), so you will often find Kalalau on the cover of a book on Hawaii. (It’s like the cover girl of Hawaii, your quintessential gorgeous vista.)

Kauai does not have the nightlife options that the previous 2 islands have, but there are options of some bars and places to dance. There are many options of things to do during the day/night ranging from all of the normal tourist attractions (snorkeling, helicopter rides, luaus, boat rides etc.) to things found specially on Kauai such as kayaking, horseback riding, tube rides, taro patch tours, ziplining and much more.

It has great natural diversity, including a large colorful canyon, steep cliffs, jungle, and desert. Many people consider it to be the best of both worlds because you can have your tropical island getaway and romantic Hawaii wedding on a beach without 100 unwanted guests, yet you still have options of many things to do.

The Big Island/Hawaii- The Big Island, or the Big I, is the largest of the main islands and is very large with very few residents. There is not much nightlife, but you certainly can get far away from everything. The Big Island of Hawaii also has an active volcano you can hike out to and actually see the hot lava enter the ocean. Other than that, you will not have so many things to ‘do’ (there are of course all the normal tourist activities), but it does have immense natural diversity. (Out of the world’s 33 climatic zones, the Big I has 26 of them.)

So, there is my personal overview of the 4 main islands (there are 7 in the state of Hawaii but almost all visitors go to these islands only). Having a Hawaii beach wedding is a wonderful experience. Having a Kauai beach wedding is even more special in my opinion because of the special nature of this garden island. Kauai has so many secluded spots and gorgeous backgrounds that the pictures always turn out better. There are beaches where you can stand facing one way and have a mountain scene behind you, face another way and have mountains and a beach and a pier, and face yet another way and have cliffs and a river next to a beach behind you! You can imagine how stunning the wedding photography is when you have that much variety in one spot.

Of course, no matter which island you choose, having a wedding coordinator or wedding planner will make your special Hawaii beach wedding day run so much more smoothly. It’s so comforting and relaxing to know that someone else is running around doing your worrying for you! Luckily for all the brides and grooms-to-be, there are many attentive and experienced wedding coordinators in Hawaii.

Author Resource:- For more information visit: www.alohaeverafter.com

Article From New Ezine Articles

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Kauai Vacation Rentals

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Hawaii, an absolutely amazing place that it can actually be called heaven on earth. The beautiful islands here with its vast beaches offers the most exotic holidays that one could only dream of. It offers the perfect setting for having the time of your life. There are plenty of options when it comes to luxury Hawaii vacations.

The location, accessibility and the spirit of the people of Hawaii is what makes it one of the most sought after vacation spots in the world. The place is getting so popular that you can see an increasing number of tourists with each passing year. Hawaii has many small islands and each island has it own unique features, offering the holiday goers with the best time of their lives.

Kauai is one such picturesque island in Hawaii. The scenic beauty of this fourth largest island in Hawaii is sure to take your breath away. When you visit Hawaii, Kauai should definitely be on your must see list. You will find some of the best views in the world, right here in Kauai. For those who want to enjoy the sea and relax, the place is most well suited for them and for those who would like to partake in adventure activities Kauai has enough and more for them on offer.

You will not find a moment of boredom here. One can go hiking, for boat rides, snorkeling, visit historical sights on the island, skydiving, kayaking and a host of other activities and they are sure to fill your day and keep you absolutely busy. Accommodation in Kauai is not a problem. There are many Kauai vacation rental homes available. But you have to book early as the peak season is witness to heavy rush of tourists. One visit to Kauai and you would know why.

Kauai vacation homes rentals would give you the comfort and ease of being at home and at the same time provide you with the luxury of the finest hotels in the world. An ideal place to stay during a holiday would be in one such vacation home. Kauai vacation homes rentals offers many services to their customers. They come in various categories and you can choose one depending upon your budget, number of people, services required and all the other requirements that you are looking forward to in your place of stay.

Kauai vacation rentals give you the option of having home cooked food as they come with an attached kitchen. This also helps you in saving a substantial sum on food and this money can be spend well on sightseeing and enjoying the place to the fullest. A vacation home is the perfect accommodation option especially when a large family or group intends holidaying together. It turns out to be the most economical lodging place for large groups.

Try staying in one of the magnificent Kauai vacation home rentals and it is certainly going to be one of the luxury Hawaii vacations that you would have ever had and you are sure to come back for more.

By Jason mcgregor
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Enjoying A Hawaiian Vacation in Kauai

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Kauai Hawaii is a wonderful place to visit and vacation as visitors can attest to as they return again and again. All of Hawaii is magnificent in its own right, however there is something special in Kauai.

Here are some of the fun things to do while you vacation on Kauai. Enjoy one or all whatever you feel like doing. Remember your on vacation after all!

One of the fun things to do on Kauai is to take the river cruise up the Wailua River. This is one of the most popular activities on Kauai. This cruise goes to Fern Grotto and allows visitors to experience the magnificent beauty of Kauai. Plus they provide different forms of entertainment and fun for everyone that takes this cruise. There are a number of tour companies that take visitors up the Wailua River in motorized boats that provide a variety of entertainment along the way.

For those vacationing in the fall and winter don't miss the humpback whales that come to Kauai for the warmer waters. The whales travel from Alaska to Hawaii to mate and nurse their young in the warm waters.

There are many whale sighting excursions available and some even guarantee that you will see the whales during certain time periods or the trip is free. Now don't be discouraged if you don't wish to book a tour to see the whales. During the fall and winter the whale population is so great that you will also be able to see them off the shores of Kauai.

A family event is to enjoy the Kauai Discovery Museum. This is a must for children of all ages and those adults who are still young at heart. The Discovery Museum allows everyone to learn by way of a hands on method. So enjoy the exhibits and then walk over to the starlight planetarium for another great show.

If you are a nature lover at heart then a visit to the Na Pali Coast is a must do activity. This is a non vehicle traffic area that boasts a lush natural environment for those who want to view the lush greens of the area. You can choose to tour the Na Pali Coast by foot or water. There are several hiking trails that you can follow along the coast if that is what you are interested in.

If you would prefer to see the Na Pali Coast by water you can do so by motorboat, kayak or catamaran. There are also many group tours of the area that you can join that also include many amenities.

Another great adventure you can join on Kauai is to see an authentic Luau. The Luau is a combination of a dinner, dance and music. When you join the Luau you will be feasting upon huli-huli chicken and haupia. As you feast you will be able to watch the mystical dances and songs of your Luau Hosts.

Now not surprising is the fact that Kauai also has some magnificent golf courses for those who wish to play. There are a multitude of top rated golf courses right on the Island. Puakea Golf Course is just one of the finer courses to visit and play. The views as well as the courses are well worth your time.

Kauai has a little bit of everything for everyone whether you wish to tour, dine, golf or swim. The hardest thing you will come across on Kauai is how to fit everything in to your vacation time schedule. Enjoy!

Article Source: http://www.articlenorth.com

Owen Walcher is a freelance writer, writing travel and vacation articles such as Kauai Hawaii Vacation You can find more Kauai Hawaii articles here: www.relaxingvacation.info/

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First Class Getaways: The Best Kauai Hotels

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Although any place in Hawaii is a spectacular place to stay regardless of your budget and location, there are definitely luxurious ways to spend your vacation. Many Kauai hotels are budding in several regions but there are a few ones that continue to draw thousands of tourists every year because of the vast amenities, top-of-the-line facilities and quality services that compete with the best in the world.

The Big Names

Marriott’s Kauai Beach Club is located at 3610 Rice Street, Lihue on the North Shore very near the Tri-State Tollway just a mile away from Lihue Airport. Expect your suite to have a sitting room that features a wet bar, microwave, refrigerator and luxurious bath. Relax in the indoor or heated outdoor pool, sauna and whirlpool after doing some cardio or weight training in the fitness center.

The hotel features Allies American Grille and Bar which serves delectable American dishes for breakfast, lunch and dinner. You can also hold special events and business meetings in any of the 8 meeting rooms that total 4000 square feet of space. Merge your vacation with work efficiently with the available business center.

Other room amenities include air-conditioning, free newspaper daily, daily maid service, in-room broadband internet access, telephone, cable television, in-room safe, coffee maker, balcony and terrace, kitchenette, dry cleaning services and children’s pool. The Marriot Kauai Beach Club features 366 rooms on 9 floors. There are also car rental services, a tennis court, bicycle and jogging tracks, golf course and health spa. Nearby attractions include the Vidinha Stadium, Wailua Falls and Grove Farm Homestead Museum.

Hilton Kauai Beach Resort, Lihue is another big name in the array of top Kauai hotels. Located at 4331 Kauai Beach Drive, Lihue, the hotel features 25 acres of tropical gardens, scenic waterfalls and captivating lagoons and 347 rooms on 5 floors. It is just 4 miles away from Lihue Airport with nearby attractions like Waimea Canyon and Wailua Falls.

You can enjoy several beach and water activities such as strolling along the white sand shore, bathing in the sand-bottom pool or two whirlpools, working out at the fitness center, relaxing with a nice massage or beauty treatment and watching the Polynesian dance show and torch-lighting event. Shutter’s Lounge features live entertainment. There are also great places to dine like Driftwood Sandbar & Grille, Paradise Coffee Roasters and Naupaka Terrace.

Close to the Beach

Kauai Coast Resort, Kapaa is located at 520 Aleka Loop on the east shore of the island around 10 miles away from Lihue Airport. The Kauai hotel fronts a very wide beach with nearby attractions such as the Opaekaa Falls, Waimea Canyon and Fern Grotto Tour Boats.

There are 108 rooms on 3 floors plus hotel amenities like the children’s pool, casual dining restaurant, Hawaiian library, sundry shop, fitness center, hot tub, spa, poolside bar with a great ocean view, tennis court, volleyball court and free parking. You can also enjoy shopping at nearby Coconut Marketplace.

Princeville Resort, Princeville features 252 rooms on 11 floors with 3 buildings on a Cliffside setting with a majestic view of Hanalei bay. The hotel is about 30 miles from Lihue Airport with nearby attractions like Wailua River State Park and Kapaa. Some amenities include the Princeville Health Club & Spa, a whirlpool, lap pool, Princeville Tennis Club, 2 golf courses and great dining at Cafe Hanalei and La Cascata.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Kauai Life

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Kauai life is truly magnificent, exciting and pleasurable which undoubtedly explains why hundreds of thousands of tourists flock to the island every year. There are several natural and man-made attractions and sites that have existed for thousands of years leading to a solid cultural heritage. Before visiting, you need to have the answers to some FAQs to determine which locations and activities suit your trip best.

Learning More about the Island

1. Why is Kauai called the “Garden Isle”?

Kauai got its name because of its rich tropical life filled with green valleys, deep jungles and beautiful gardens. Mt. Wai’ale’ale is home to the wettest spot on the planet, receiving around 400 inches of rain annually. 3 of the 5 National Tropical Botanical Gardens are located in the island namely Allerton, McBryde and Limahuli. Kauai life actually stemmed from abundant sugarcane fields, vegetable plantations and farms. A lot of plants you see today were originally brought by Polynesian explorers who intended to enhance agriculture and herbal methods.

2. What attractions should I look forward to?

There are both artificial and natural tourist attractions that define Kauai life well. You can find several ancient heiaus or Hawaiian temples where ancient villagers and chiefs used to worship their gods and goddesses. Here you will find artifacts and other sacred structures like totem poles. Ancient burial sites and secret caves are also found all across the island nearby captivating waterfalls, tropical jungles and seaside cliffs. Several popular movies were filmed in different spots of Kauai such as “Jurassic Park”, “Might Joe Young”, “King Kong” and “6 Days, 7 Nights”.

Kauai is around 5.1 million years old and has a number of popular volcanoes and peaks. It is also home to the enchanting Na Pali Coast which was formed from several volcanic eruptions. Experience the Great Canyon of the Pacific or Waimea Canyon which is more colorful than the Grand Canyon in Arizona. It is 10 miles long and have hiking trails leading to towns and tropical jungles.

3. What can I do in Kauai?

Some of the popular activities that resemble Kauai life include swimming, snorkeling, sand strolling, hiking, horseback riding, scuba diving, surfing, bodysurfing, windsurfing and experiencing festivals and luaus. Some must-see beaches include Hanakapi’ai Beach and Kalalau Beach. You should also try the Kalalau Trail from Ke’e Beach that takes you to some majestic views of valleys, coasts and peaks.

A lot of people get married Hawaiian style using authentic floral decorations, lei ceremonies and seaside landscapes. It is the perfect vacation spot for the entire family as well as lone individuals. There are a number of world-class hotels like the Hyatt, Hilton and Marriott. The downtown area is also bustling with Kauai life with festive bars and clubs, restaurants serving international dishes and shopping hubs.

More Questions

4. What natural attractions can I expect?

Na Pali Coast is home to the rare monk seals as well as other species like the nene geese, dolphin and humpback whale. Tourists come to watch whales and other marine life from December to April. You can also find a lot of waterfalls as you explore deeper into the island such as Wailua Falls, Opaekaa Falls and Manawaipuna Falls which was featured in “Jurassic Park”. Some of these spots can be trekked to or you may avail of a helicopter tour as well for a better view.

5. What can I expect about the weather?

Kauai life usually has moderate and comfortable climate and temperature. Poipu in the south shore is the sunniest while the western parts leading to Mana, Polihale and Kekaha are the driest. All coastal areas are generally sunny and comfortably warm. Temperatures tend to get cooler in the evening all across the island. Generally, it rains a lot in Kauai.

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Getting the Best Deals at Kauai Shopping Districts

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Getting the Best Deals at Kauai Shopping Districts

Aside from the many natural beauties that sprout all over the island, the towns and cities in Kauai are also bustling with modern structures and developments. Kauai shopping is a very fun and exciting experience since you get a vast selection of authentic Hawaiian goods and other well-known international brands. You get to enjoy different atmospheres with varying themes that truly depict the Hawaiian lifestyle.

Shopper’s Paradise

You will find a variety of good shopping places ranging from small shops to boutiques to department centers to malls. There are plenty of specialty shops and boutiques carrying unique souvenir items and vintage accessories and clothing on the north shore.

Antiques are also sold coming from different lands like Polynesia, Tibet and India. Jewelry, Oriental rugs, necklaces, leis, bracelets, anklets and pearls can be purchased in Hanalei and Princeville. Other great home items like candles, soaps, tablecloths, napkins with exotic designs, plates and aloha shirts are found in factories and outlets in these areas as well.

Art collectors will enjoy the many fine art shops and galleries at Lihue and Kalapaki. Several authentic Kauai crafts and original Hawaiian pieces like woodwork, lauhala weavings, Niihau shell leis, coconut products and other tropical collectibles can be found at the Kauai Museum as well as other farmer’s markets, also known as Sunshine Markets.

The east side features fine art, vintage maps, jewelry, aloha shirts, Kukui guava jams and other delightful food, beverages and snacks. Kapaa Town, Wailua Shopping Plaza and Kinipopo Shopping Village feature some of the most attractive handmade items in the state. You will find over 70 shopts selling mementos, crafts, fabrics and antiques in the Coconut Marketplace.

If you head west, you will find Eleele Shopping Center offering boat tours, dive shops, furniture shops, fine art stores and antique stores. This is the perfect place to search for special Hawaiian treats and dishes like taro chips, tropical fruits and many others. It is ideal that you visit on a Friday night which is also referred to as Art Night. Art galleries come to life as well as other nearby establishments featuring live music, refreshments and demonstrations. Come to Port Allen for great souvenirs and chocolates.

Other Tourist Favorites

Ching Young Village offers a variety of gift shops. Kilohana is home to specialty stores, retail shops, carriage rides, sugarcane rides and a fine dining place. There is a banquet facility where you can hold parties, luaus, weddings and other family gatherings.

Kauai Village has more than 110,000 square feet with landscaped ponds, boutiques, gift shops, restaurants and fast food stores. South of Lihue you will find Kukui Grove Shopping Center which has 35 acres and popular stores like Long’s Drug, K-Mart, Sears and Macy’s. It has recently been renovated and now has a very attractive and stimulating appearance.

Poipu Shopping Village is located at the south shore featuring gift shops, services and excellent dining areas. Here you will find pillows, Hawaiian handmade paper, children’s toys, silk dresses, beach accessories, swimwear, sterling silver pieces and beadworks. There are many surf and dive shops as well offering a variety of items from different brands and manufacturers.

Kauai shoppers will enjoy visiting Old Koloa Town with its snacking establishments, groceries, Niihau shell leis and other island apparel. Kauai shopping be enjoyed right in your hotel since some also have a number of boutique shops where you can purchase original Hawaiian arts, crafts and items.

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Things to Do in Kauai, Hawaii

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There are many fun things to do in Kauai if you get lucky enough to take a vacation in Hawaii. Kauai is one of the most beautiful locations in the world. Because of its beauty, many movies have been filmed at Kauai. The very best things to do in Kauai take advantage of the island's natural beauty. A vacation in Kauai is paradise for nature enthusiasts.

Kauai is the oldest and fourth largest main island of Hawaii. It is one of the wettest areas on the globe. Because of this, Kauai has numerous flora and beautiful scenery. It is nicknamed "The Garden Isle". The excessive precipitation has also caused valleys and canyons with amazing waterfalls on the Hawaiian island

Things to Do in Kauai for Nature Lovers

One of the things to do in Kauai that is not to be missed is to visit the beautiful canyons located in Waimea. Don't miss Waimea Canyon. Waimea Canyon is named the "Grand Canyon of the Pacific". It is a 2,700 feet deep gorge. Waimea is also the first location that Captain Cook landed on the Hawaiian islands. A statue of him is located at Waimea in Kauai.

Visit the botanical gardens named Allerton Garden or one of the other botanical gardens for slower paced things to do in Kauai. Allerton Garden is open to the public every day except Sunday. If you want to visit Allerton Garden in Kauai, you must make reservations. Allerton Garden has been the home of the queen of Hawaii and site of many movie scenes. Don't miss rambling through this floral paradise. There are unique features such as a Bamboo garden, an orchard full of tropical fruit trees, cut-flower garden, fountains, statues, and reflecting pools. Photographers will want to spend the entire day here.

There are several things to do in Kauai for hikers, photographers, and bird watchers at the Koke'e State Park. Koke'e State Park in Hawaii has a Natural History Museum which is open 7 days a week and doesn't charge admission. This park is loaded with hiking trails. The hiking trails vary greatly in length and difficulty. See swamp land, native plants and birds, and canyon views. You may even see some wild goats.

Free Things to Do in Kauai

There are other free things to do in Kauai, Hawaii, besides visiting the Koke'e Natural History Museum and lounging at the beach. The island is also loaded with photographic opportunities and hiking trails. Here are some more free things to do in Kauai:

Moir Gardens is a 35 acre botanical cactus and succulents garden located on the Outrigger Kiahuna Plantation. It is open everyday with free admittance.

Visit the largest coffee plantation in Hawaii at Kauai. The coffee plantation is located on the southwestern side of Kauai. The visitor center tells about the history of coffee and growing coffee beans. The admission is free and the visitor center is open daily.

Recreational Things to Do in Kauai, Hawaii

The more active vacationer should visit the Wailua River State Park if looking for recreational things to do in Kauai. The park contains the only river in Hawaii that can be used for water recreational activities. There are several boating activities to choose, including riverboats, motorboats, skiing, and riverboats. Tourists like to visit the park. Be sure to see the Opaeka Falls located in the park. It is a double waterfall that is over 150 feet and visible all year. Fans of history will also enjoy visiting the heiaus, or temples, in the Hawaiian park. There are several that have been preserved in the park. Don't miss the Iraivan temple located along the Wailua River by the park. It is a Hindu temple that was hand carved in India and then assembled on Kauai.

There are plenty of things to do in Kauai for sun worshippers and surfers. Try a visit to Hanalei Bay. Hanalei Bay is a large bay on the north side of Kauai. The beach there is amazing. It is about two miles long. The scenery can't be beat, as the backdrop is of mountain scenery. Lifeguards are present at Hanalei Bay, and they are friendly and helpful. Surfing is a very popular thing to do in Kauai, especially at Hanalei Bay. There are several surfing schools if you want to learn while on vacation.

Things to Do in Kauai for Kids

Looking for things to do for the younger set? Try Kee Beach on the north shore, which is nice for families. It is a lagoon that is surrounded by coral reefs. Kee Beach in Kauai, Hawaii, is great for swimming, hiking, scuba diving, and snorkeling. As long as a person doesn't venture too far out into the water or close to the rocks, it is safe. If a person does get close to the rocks or too far out, the current is very strong and there is a good chance of drowning. There are no lifeguards. Better safe than sorry. Summer months offer the calmest waters at Kee Beach. Kee Beach is also full of colorful fish and sea turtles for nature lovers. Don't touch the turtles unless you wish to pay a hefty fine, though. Photographers and romantics should stay long enough for the amazing sunsets. Kee Beach is one of the most beautiful places you will ever visit. Kee Beach is very popular, so it is not suited for anyone that doesn't like crowds. Try visiting early in the morning for a more peaceful beach experience. The Kalalau Trail is also located by Kee Beach. Hike the trail for breathtaking views


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Top 5 Family Fun Beaches

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Planning a vacation with the whole family means you have one primary consideration: keeping the kids happy. If planning a beach vacation, it seems you already have taken care of that main consideration, but not completely. You want to be sure you choose a kid-friendly beach that will also keep the adults happy.

Dr. Beach, otherwise known as scientist Dr. Stephen Leatherman, chooses the top beaches each year, always with an eye toward the kids as well. All of the following selections are made with the family in mind. These were Dr. Beach's selections for 2006.

1. Fleming Beach, Maui. This beach, of which part is the Ritz Carlton beach, is a popular destination for families. Here, you can surf, swim and picnic. Since the kids are with you, you'll appreciate that there are restrooms, showers and picnic facilities. If you're visiting in the winter, stay out of the water, as the surf is dangerously high then. Families also like the location - it's on the west side of Maui and is backed by a forest of trees which provide abundant shade.

2. Caladesi Island State Park, Florida. This beach makes a wonderful complement to a Florida vacation with kids. Head to Florida's west coast (this beach is near the St. Petersburg/Clearwater area) and visit this park, which offers a marina, picnic pavilions, shelling and fishing, as well as nature studies. There are also three miles of nature trail here. The beach is a family favorite due to the myriad of activities that complement your visit, as well as the beautiful sand beaches perfect for sandcastle making.

3. Ocracoke Island, North Carolina. Located on North Carolina's Outer Banks, Ocracoke Island is a popular destination for families. There's something here for everyone: the kids enjoy watching the "banker ponies", the wild ponies that live there, and parents enjoy the quaint shops, historic lighthouse, and darling homes. The village of Ocracoke is on the National Register of Historic Places. There's a free ferry service from Hatteras Island to Ocracoke Island. It's a 40-minute ferry ride that can end up taking a lot longer in the summertime, as the wait for the ferry can be a long one.

4. Cooper's Beach, Southampton, New York. Southampton was the first settlement in New York State, in 1640, and this beach is the main beach in the Southampton area. Of course, Southampton is known as the playground of the rich during the summer months, so be sure to prepare yourself for that if you're not normally part of that moneyed crowd. But don't let that scare you off - the beach is also a favorite playground of kids everywhere. You should carry some cash: non-residents pay $25 for weekday parking and $30 for weekend.

5. Hanalei Bay, Kauai, Hawaii. This beach, located on the north coast of Hawaii, is a quiet oasis of fun beach activities. There are many vacation home rentals in the area, so you can head from your condo or house rental right to this beautiful beach. Kids love it because the white sand beaches are prime for sand play, there are restrooms, picnic facilities and a lifeguard on duty. Kids can play in the water most times of the year and surfing and boogie boarding are also popular here.


Liz Boudreau is a beach bum with a passion for travel. She has traveled to and reviewed some of the best beaches in the world.

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The Inside Secrets of Popular Hawaii Vacation Destinations

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These homes are superior to hotels, especially for large groups of people. Vacationers can rent a cottage or home that is big enough to accommodate an entire group of tourists. Vacation beach rentals are perfect for visiting an island such as Kauai. You'll be close to the beaches and have a wonderful place to stay as well.

A Haena vacation rental is just one example of a truly splendid place. Haena is a little township in Hawaii that has just about everything. This includes beaches, waterfalls, jungles, fantastic hiking trails, and dazzling sunsets. Anyone can visit this lovely place on the island of Kauai by renting a vacation home.

Moloa`a and Anahola are also places of interest for vacationers in Kauai. This location is unique because the local Hawaiian natives are said to live here so the majority of the land is set aside to accommodate them. Golfing, surfing, snorkeling, fishing and scuba diving are among the numerous activities that people can participate in. Anahola is located near the airport and harbor which makes it the perfect area for transportation facilities for local residents and guests as well. Anahola vacation rentals are also quite popular. These rentals usually offer easy access to the beach and provide a breathtaking view of the ocean too.

Hawaii is well-known for its vacation homes which provide the luxury of a hotel along with a cozy atmosphere that feels like home. Visitors can enjoy the best of both worlds. Vacation cottages are also wonderful places for visitors. Hawaii has many such places and a vacation rental in Kauai would be an excellent choice.

The main advantage of vacation homes is that a large number of people can stay in one place at a lower cost compared to a hotel. With the increasing demand for vacation rentals, the number of people involved in the vacation home business has also grown. Vacation rentals have many accommodations such as a kitchen to prepare your own food in, which helps reduce food expenses.

In addition to a kitchen most vacation homes also have grills, washers and dryers, Cable television along with a DVD and CD player, Jacuzzi bathtubs and a variety of other amenities so you can enjoy your holiday to the fullest.

Plan your vacation in Hawaii soon so you can be in the center of nature and enjoy the exquisite beauty. You'll be able to find a high-quality vacation home more easily if you reserve early. With some negotiation you might even receive a discount.

Hawaii has been blessed with rich scenic beauty. Places like Haena, are rare and unique. Staying at a Kauai vacation rental and enjoying the magnificence of the ocean is like living in a paradise.


Chris Jensen is a contributing Author of Jetfly Blog. For more related articles and reviews visit Jetfly Travel & Vacation Blog now. Also, for the Best up-to-date related Online Products, check out Jetfly Vacation Rentals Shop for Todays Current Online Deals.

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Guide To North Kauai

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Kilauea

Kilauea is the northernmost point of the island. A lighthouse stands at the edge of the cliff, where it used to warn approaching ships. It measures 52 feet in height and was built in 1913. Since 1976 it has not been in service, but the public is welcome to visit the landmark. The lighthouse is situated at the end of a 31 acre Wildlife Refuge Park. The park was severly damaged in September 1992, when Hurricane Iniki struck the island. It took 2 years to repair everything, and the refuge opened again in 1994, more beautiful than ever.

Anini Beach, known as one of the most beautiful beach in all of Kauai, offers beach cottages for the real Hawaii vacation - secluded, surrounded by palms and in a world of their own. Make sure to reserve way in advance if you want to be one of the lucky ones to spent your vacation here.

Kilauea itself is a small town with a few restaurants, but its main attraction are its fabulous beaches. There is a wonderful lake which is home to a little island which has been called "the ultimate getaway". This wonderful vacation home is one of many which line the Kilauea beaches. . Along the beaches you will find a number of vacation rentals and homes.

Hanalei

Hanalei is a small village on Kauai’s North Shore with little more than 500 residents. It is the entrance to picturesque Hanalei Valley, and features a wonderful beach, the Hanalei Bay, home of many beautiful vacation homes, a great beach and some outstanding B&B's.For a real cozy place, pick Tutu's Cottage. A museum, a mission house, a church and various restaurants are the main attractions of Hanalei, as well as its natural charm. The museum is the Hanalei Museum, a small house from the 19th century. It features local articrafts and displays the local history. It is located on Kuhio Hwy at the beginning of Hanalei. At the end of the village is the Wailoli Mission House from the year 1841. The house faithfully capture rural life on Kaua‘i as is was 160 years ago. The church is the impressive Wai'oli Hui'ia Church, a very elegant and much photographed green church dating from 1912. Particularly of note is the magnificent stained glass window arch.

Hanalei is a beautiful village, perfect to relax and to spend some quiet days. From here you can start your hikes to the Na Pali coast, or one of the popular boat or rafting tours along the secluded coast. Enjoy the spectacular sunsets and views of the Na Pali coast sipping on an original Hawaiian Mai Tai. In the evening you have the choice between some good restaurants in the village Hanalei has become a very popular vacation spot. The Hanalei Bay resort is one of the few resorts in this area.

If you follow the road Rt. 56 towards the Na Pali Coast, you will pass several caves and come towards Haena, another small settlement with older farms and some newer vacation homes. Haena used to be a favorite hangout with the hippies in the 60's and 70's, who used to come out here from California and brought some of their music and influences to this place. Take the time to stop and enjoy the beaches. If there is good surf, you might get lucky and catch some kids in action.

Na Pali Coast

The most picturesque coastline of the Hawaiian Islands is also the most difficult coast to access. 4000 feet high, perpendicular cliffs are looming over the ocean, reflecting all colors of the rainbow. this coast is both breathtaking an unforgettable.

If you are not inclined to spent a lot of time, take a helicopter. Flights leave from Lihue and Princeville airports and will give you an aerial picture of this coastline. If you fly and have a deja vu, you are right, it's just like in Magnum P.I., only the helicopters are more reliable. Daily tours are also offered.

Rafting is the second option. In case you are used to exploring sea caves, having dolphins swim with the boat while you marvel at natures beauty, and snorkeling at secluded beaches, don't go. If you are not, don't miss this tour.

Hiking is the third option. You can park your car at Haena and start the hike there. The first section leads you 2 miles to Hanakapai Bay. The bay has a unique setting. At the back of the valley is a nice waterfall. The fresh water river flows across the bay into the ocean. So it is possible for you to take a swim in fresh water, but with a sandy bottom and views of the ocean – it is a fantastic experience.

Hanakoa is a very wet and rainy place. Very experienced hikers can dare to continue their hike another 5 miles to finally reach the Koolau Valley. Koolau is filled with natural attractions. There are several beautiful falls, pools, more hikes and ancient ruins. The whole hike consists of 11 miles and is rated difficult, especially after rainfall.

Beaches

Kauai’s North Shore Beaches offer unbeatable scenery, but swimming and snorkeling are dangerous, due to high surf and strong currents.

Hanakapiai

You will reach this wonderful and unique bay after a 2 miles hike along the Na Pali coast. During the winter months the surf is high and the currents strong, so swimming is not recommended. A fresh water river crosses the bay and flows into the ocean. It is safe all year round to take a bath in the river.

Hanalei Bay

Located at Kauai’s North Shore, the bay is not safe for swimming, due to the rough waters, but it is definitely one of the most beautiful bays. Ideal for walking and watching the sunset.

Lumahai

This beach became famous after the movie ‘South Pacific’ had been shot here. This wonderful long strip of white sand beach is not protected by any reef, so swimming is extremely dangerous.

Anahola Bay

A protective reef makes swimming relatively safe during the summer, but high surf and strong currents cause hazardous conditions in the winter. The beach has good facilities and is a local favorite.


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Paradise On Earth Make Your Vacation A Worthy One

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Kauai Island is known as one of the most beautiful places on earth. This island is located in the middle of the Pacific Ocean, and it has been created almost 7 million years ago, from a volcanic eruption. Though created from a volcanic eruption, Hawaii Island is considered as one of the best travel destinations in all over the world. The culture, the people, and the scenic beauty never fail to draw the attention of the travellers from different parts of the world. Even if you have not landed to this island ever in your past, you must have seen this on many popular Hollywood movies. Hawaii has always been a favourite destination for movie makers, food lovers and also the newly wedded couples.You can find different packages on different Kauai vacation rentals here, so that you can choose whatever suits your needs best. You can also find luxury Kauai vacation rentals here, and many other things will be included into that package. They will arrange you site seeing, and cruise trip too. The best thing you can do is to go for any of the tour packages. There are Hawaii and Hanalei vacation rentals are included in those packages. And if you go for tour packages it will save you a lot of money also. And the added benefit is, you can then enjoy your trip without bothering all the small details of your tour; because, everything will be supervised by your tour manager. You can go for private Hawaii vacation homes, or you can choose cottage to spend your vacation. If you are newly married, then there are some special arrangements for honeymoon couple, and you can enjoy them.If you are visiting Hawaii for the very first time, then you must not miss visiting Poipu. Choosing a rental accommodation in Poipu is not tough; you can anytime go for Poipu Kauai Condo vacation rentals from internet. Loads of resorts and beach cottages are there where you can spend your beautiful day or evening with your loved one. If you know anybody, who is known to this place, take advice from them about where to start your tour. Because Poipu is full of waterfalls, zip lines, hiking, rope swings, kayaking and many other different things. So, if you do not make a tour map, you may feel that you have missed a couple of exciting things here.You can enjoy in an absolute different way if you are going there to spend your honeymoon. There are various Kauai Island Weddings Luxury Home Vacation Rentals which you can opt for. And for newly wedded couples there are different packages where they will take you for a romantic cruise venture. It is adventurous, romantic and full of enjoyment. The dining and all other costs will be included in your package. Hawaii wedding cruises are very popular, because in this way you can visit all the islands in one trip. And for that you need not spend even single extra bucks. So, this time throw away the traditional destinations, go and experience something new and exciting.

Jason McGregor is a frequent traveler to Hawaii reviewing Kauai Hawaii vacation beach rental homes and Kauai Hawaii vacation cottages, Princeville Kauai Vacation Homes, Poipu Kauai Condo vacation rentals, Hawaii Vacation Homes Rentals, Hawaii vacation condo rentals, luxury Kauai vacation rentals, Haena Hawaii Vacation Homes Rentals, Hanalei
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Hawaii Vacation Rentals - Enjoying Your Holiday

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A Hawaiian vacation is one of life's most pleasant experiences, the memories of which you will be savoring for years. To fully enjoy your vacation in these tropical islands, select from Hawaii vacation rentals of different types that suit your requirements and your budget. Rentals are available for cottages, condos, hotels and resorts. Hawaiian resorts and cottages that overlook the ocean provide a special atmosphere and breathtaking scenery. Both luxury hotels and less expensive accommodations are available for rent, and can be found year-round on the bigger islands. Couples who visit the islands for their wedding or honeymoon will appreciate the cozy and romantic experience they have in a Hawaiian cottage rental. Hawaii is the place for beautiful scenery and exciting activities. Kauai is famous for stunning Waimea canyon, which is better known as the 'Grand Canyon of the Pacific'. In this Island, You can take a helicopter ride along the 3000-foot cliffs of Napali coast or kayak down the Wailua River. This is the only river in Hawaii, which is navigable. The most famous beach on the Oahu island is the Waikiki beach. The island also has several other attractive beaches. Island's North Shore with big waves is a paradise for surfing. Pearl Harbor with its USS Arizona memorial, Iolani palace and art galleries are some more places you can visit. Lanai is a beautiful part of Hawaii. With its many lunarscape gardens and golf courses is also ideal to base your vacation. Along with many other rental options, there are two luxurious resorts based on the island. The island's Munro Trail is a must for hiking up to the heights from where you can see the neighboring islands of Maui, Molokai, Kahoolawe, Oahu and Big Island. Hawaii's largest and biggest island in definitely the Big Island and is also bigger than all other islands combined. The major attractions on the island are active volcano, waterfalls, pristine beaches and Kohala Coast for fishing, snorkeling or scuba diving. A 10,000-foot crater, museums, shops and fine restaurants are also there on the island of Maui. The six islands of Hawaii are each unique and attractive enough to make first time vacationers return again and again. What adds to their pleasant experiences is that there are Hawaii vacation rentals offering comfort and convenience in all the major islands. English is widely spoken throughout the islands and dollar is the official currency. Credit cards are accepted everywhere. As Hawaii is the 50th state of the US, visitors from mainland America do not need to obtain visas or to bring their passports. The Hawaiian Islands are among the most beautiful and popular tourist destinations in the world. You can select from Hawaii vacation rentals of different types that will suit your requirements and budget, to fully enjoy your vacation in these tropical islands. Experience the unique ambiance and panoramic views of an oceanfront Big Island rental or cottage, while Kauai vacation rentals allow you the freedom to enjoy that island at your leisure.
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Ellen Gentry
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A Kauai, Hawaii, Vacation: The Forbidden Island

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If you love a mystery, consider a Kauai, Hawaii, vacation. Here's the mystery: what's it like on the Hawaiian island of Ni'ihau? This 550-square-mile island is the westernmost of the main Hawaiian islands and has been privately owned since 1864 by the Robinson family, which forbids tourists. Ni'ihau (Nee-ee-how) is visible from the southwest shore of Kauai, lying low on the horizon 17 miles away. There are 200 or so native Hawaiians who live there and speak the Hawaiian language. In fact, it's the only place the language is spoken any more. It is taught in the island's only school, which goes K-8. Islanders of course are free to leave and come back, so many of them do. They need to in order to get provisions from Kauai to live on the dry island, which is in the rain shadow of the ancient volcano cone on Kauai, Wai-ale-ale, "the wettest spot on earth" at 460 inches per year of rainfall. The Robinson family, which owns Ni'ihau, maintains cattle ranches there. A stunning form of folk art comes from Ni'ihau. These are Ni'ihau shell leis, tiny shells strung from many strands. These tiny luminous shells come in various colors, and so whole families collect them and sort them for size and color. Then the artist, usually a woman, sets to work, punching a hole in each shell using an awl often made from a bicycle spoke (there are no cars on the island). About half the shells shatter at this point. She chooses colors in such a way as to make a final product that is textured with color. These tiny shells are still found on Ni'ihau, but not on neighboring Kauai where agricultural runoff has tended to kill off the shell-makers. The resulting shell leis are rare, hard to find, and precious. But if you look hard on Kauai, you can find them! Hawaiian legend has it that the volcano goddess Pele had her original home on Ni'ihau. Then she traveled to Kauai, Oahu, and moved eastward until she found the Big Island of Hawaii, where she is today. Scientists say that the Hawaiian islands were formed as a plate of earth's crust moved slowly across an active lava vent. So Ni-ihau was formed first, and as the crust moved slowly, Kauai, then Oahu, and so on. Ni'ihau's current form is as an eroded lava dome on the eastern side of the island. Much of the rest is flat and sandy, with a couple of freshwater lakes. It's possible to find a map of Ni'ihau, and pictures of its rock formations. But how can you go and see? In fact, the Robinson family is allowing a few forms of tourism now. Some helicopter tours from Kauai are allowed to land on remote beaches. And you can take a hunting safari, to control populations of feral bighorn sheep and Polynesian boars. In addition, scuba divers regularly dive off Ni'ihau. All that is available from Kauai, Ni'ihau's big sister island 17 miles away. Kauai has immense charms of its own; not only does it have the usual beaches and surf, but it has incredible beauty on its northwest coast, called Na Pali, or The Cliffs. Phyllis Wheeler is a writer and webmaster who lives in St. Louis, Missouri, USA. Find out more about Ni'ihau and aKauai, Hawaii, vacation at her Web site, http://www.Kauai-Treasure-Island.com .
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Phyllis Wheeler
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