Kauaʻi is one of my favorite Hawaiian Islands to visit—and I’m not alone. The Garden Isle was voted the Best Island in HAWAIʻI Magazine’s Readers’ Choice Awards in 2025. From verdant valleys and majestic coastlines to laid-back and charming towns, Kauaʻi makes for an unforgettable getaway. And while it’s become a popular destination, Kauaʻi still […]
It’s common to hear people say they are enamored with Poʻipū. With its picturesque beaches, top-notch restaurants and interesting archaeological sites, it’s no surprise. The sunny town on the island’s south shore exudes the warmth and laid-back vibes characteristic of many beach communities in Hawaiʻi. And while Poʻipū is a popular destination among travelers, it
Kauaʻi is home to local businesses and artisans whose products make memorable gifts. From punny chocolate to exquisite jewelry, these delightful ideas from the Garden Isle will help get your holiday shopping started. 1. Rooster Poop from Aloha Spice Co. Aloha Spice Co., a charming shop in Hanapēpē, is known for its salts and spice
Kaua‘i is the oldest of the main Hawaiian Islands—and one of the most beloved by travelers. From verdant valleys to the majestic Nāpali Coast, the Garden Isle makes for an idyllic vacation. Although a top destination, the island remains dotted with secluded beaches and home to some of the best under-the-radar businesses. You just need to
The first time I learned about the Alakoko Fishpond on Kaua‘i was back in 2012, when I hopped on a stand-up paddleboard on the Hulē‘ia River and glided right past it. Back then it was referred to as the Menehune Fishpond, named after the legendary craftsmen who worked at night, building heiau (temples) and fishponds.
One of my favorite towns in Hawaiʻi is tucked on Kauaʻi’s south shore, just west of Kōloa. When I walk through the charming town of Hanapēpē, it feels like time has stood still, which is just one of the reasons I love returning. It might come as a surprise that Hanapēpē is nicknamed Kauaʻi’s Biggest
Kauaʻi has always been one of my favorite Hawaiian Islands to visit. Whether I’m hiking and exploring or just spending a few days lounging on a secluded shoreline, the Garden Isle offers the perfect blend of adventure and relaxation. Kauaʻi, the oldest of the main Hawaiian Islands, is known for its emerald valleys and the grand
*This story was originally published on Aug. 2, 2016 and updated on Aug. 11, 2025. The next time you go to Kapaʻa, listen to the locals. The 8-mile drive from the Līhuʻe airport to the district’s historic center was the only set of directions I had upon arriving to Kauaʻi, and turns out it
If you’ve ever visited Kauaʻi and thought, this view looks like it was plucked straight from the big screen, it probably was. The epic Nāpali Coast dramatically cuts into the Pacific, offering up a quintessential picture of paradise. With sea-sprayed limestone cliffs, water-streaked emerald mountains, rich volcanic red dirt and a tropical jungle setting that
Two scoops white rice, a scoop mac salad and a generous portion of a protein like teriyaki beef, chicken katsu or grilled fish—and you have the quintessential plate lunch in Hawaiʻi. The plate lunch—or mixed plate—is a symbol of the Islands’ plantation era when workers from different backgrounds shared home-cooked meals, resulting in a blend
Witnessing the magnificent Nāpali Coast is an unforgettable experience and often a bucket-list experience for travelers. And there are only three ways to see the towering cliffs on Kauaʻi: By hiking along the beautiful but strenuous Kalalau trail, by flying in a helicopter, or by voyaging on a boat. For those choosing to take a
With a revolving menu of both wine offerings and delicious food pairings, The Tasting Room on Kauaʻi never gets stale. Wine and spirit lovers familiar with Kauaʻi’s south side have most likely met Dan and Ellen O’Connell, owners of The Wine Shop—a fixture in Kōloa Town for nearly 20 years. As a natural extension, “Dan-o”
