Kauai, "the Garden Isle", is the oldest of the Hawaiian Islands. Kauai is famous for its pristine beaches, dramatic cliffs, dense tropical foliage, awe-inspiring canyons, and majestic mountain ranges. These landscapes can be actively enjoyed in activities such as hiking, surfing, scuba diving, snorkeling, snuba diving (a fun mixture of snorkeling and scuba diving), kayaking, deep-sea fishing, wind surfing, whale watching, golfing, horseback riding, camping, or just basking in the Pacific sun. The island's relatively small size makes most activities accessible by car within one to two hours.

There are many ways to see the natural spectacle that is Kauai. The dramatic Na Pali Coast, dominating Kauai's northwestern shore, is famous for its spectacular waterfalls, cliffs and hidden caves that lead to secluded swimming and snorkeling spots. You can explore the coastline on foot, by boat, or by helicopter. Boat charters depart from both the north and south shores of Kauai.

Helicopter tours are another way to experience Kauai's breathtaking vistas. Tours leave from Princeville on the north shore and from Lihue on the east shore. Tours frequent the Na Pali Coast and the Waimea Canyon, the "Grand Canyon of the Pacific". This richly-colored, 3000 foot canyon is a heaven for photographers, hikers, bicyclists, and bird watchers.

Kauai is home to the only navigable rivers on all of the Hawaiian Islands. Kayaking tours up the Hanalei River are popular on Kauai's north shore. Mountains and waterfalls serve as the backdrop.

The larger Wailua River, on Kauai's eastern coast, is navigable by motorized boat. Cruise up the Wailua on a charter, complete with Hawaiian musicians and hula dancers, to the famous Fern Grotto. The entire area is cloaked with ferns cooled by the mists of an ancient waterfall. Also on the Wailua River is the famousWailua Falls. The falls are best seen from the road, just a short trip from Lihue. You may recognize them from the opening sequence of the television series Fantasy Island.

Visit one of the National Tropical Botanical Gardens for a glimmer of the rich flora of "the Garden Isle". Situated on the south shore of Kauai, the McBryde and Allerton Gardens, in the picturesque Lawai Valley, encompass more than 252 acres of garden and natural preserve. The Limahuli Garden and Preserve on the north shore extends over 1,000 acres in a verdant tropical valley covering three distinct ecological zones.

Golfers may never want to leave Kauai. It seems everywhere you look, there is another highly rated course to play. Famous course architects like Jack Nicklaus and Robert Trent Jones Jr. have designed challenging links style courses in Poipu, Princeville, and the Lihue areas. The courses are famous for both their challenging layout, and the magnificent views you have while you play them.

Magnificent beaches dot the coastline of Kauai. Surf conditions vary by time of year, so visitors must heed advisories due to currents and high waves. The north shore drive is dotted with beautiful beaches such as the crescent-shaped Hanalei Beach, Lumahai Beach (where South Pacific was filmed), Anini Beach (great for windsurfing), the gold-sand Tunnels Beach, and Ke'e Beach at road's end at the entrance of the Na Pali coast.

Kalapaki Beach, on Kauai's "Coconut Coast" near Lihue, is conveniently located to all sorts of food outlets, equipment rentals, and shopping opportunities. The southern shore of Kauai is lined with crescent shaped beaches that make for great swimming, snorkeling, and surfing-especially for beginners. Poipu Beach Park is considered one of the most beautiful and safest beaches on Kauai. (While in Poipu, don't forget to visit the Spouting Horn, Kauai's famous geyser. Formed by two lava tubes, Spouting Horn throws water 30 feet in the air!) Don't forget the miles of uncrowded beaches on Kauai's western shore, including Kekaha and Polihale beaches, with views of Ni'ihau, Hawaii's "Forbidden Island" (named because only native Hawaiians are allowed on the island).

Another "can't miss" attraction is the Kilauea Lighthouse and Wildlife Refuge on Kauai's north shore. Although the lighthouse no longer operates as a beacon for ships, the promontory offers beautiful vistas and a natural habitat for native birds. The birds emerge during the day from nearby cliffs and fill the skies with frigates, boobies, shearwaters, and Laysan albatross.

For a different view of Kauai, why not take a tour that showcases the island through Hollywood's eyes. More than 70 productions have been filmed on Kauai, including South Pacific, Blue Hawaii, Jurassic Park, Raiders of the Lost Ark, Hook, and numerous television movies.

Whether your tastes for paradise include total relaxation or active adventure, a vacation on "the Garden Isle" will satisfy every appetite.