Adventure With Julia

 Kauai is the perfect destination for people who love outdoor adventures. The island is home to many unique animals and landscapes that you won’t find anywhere else in the world. This provides a trip full of activities that will keep adventurous travelers occupied and wishing they could explore forever. 

5: Watch the Sunrise at Shipwreck Beach

Start your day right by arriving at Shipwreck Beach in the early morning for a great view of the sunrise. Follow a short path up the rocky cliff to arrive at an open clearing atop the rock. From here you can look easterly to see the sun rise over the ocean. After taking in the view, follow one of the paths along the rocks to view many historically cultural areas and ocean views. Follow the trail until reaching the golf course, then return to the beach to view amazing surfing and possibly watch the monk seals roll up onto the beach for the day. 

4: Secret Falls Kayak and Hiking Tour

This activity is every nature lovers dream. Start your day kayaking down the river with your tour group. Eventually, you will reach the base of the hike. From here, your group will hike through the rainforest viewing many native birds along the way until arriving at the base of a large waterfall. Visitors stop to swim underneath the large falls, even getting the chance to stand behind it, creating a magical moment and a great photo op. After taking a dip, sit on the rocks and enjoy any snacks you brought with while admiring the beautiful view. 

3: Surf at Poipu Beach

Poipu beach on the south shores of Kauai is an excellent place for beginner surfing. With beautiful clear water and white sand beaches, you can learn to surf surrounded by nature. During the day visitors often spot Hawaiian Monk Seals and Sea Turtles sun bathing on the beach. I recommend booking a lesson with Hawaiian Style Surfing out of the Sheraton Kauai Resort. They will teach you everything you need to know, and you will easily begin to catch waves. After you have caught your first waves, visit Brennecke’s Beach Broiler for a filling lunch or dinner. Poipu beach is also great for sunset views. During the winter months you may even spot a whale!

2: Waimea Canyon

Visiting Waimea Canyon feels like stepping onto another planet. This 3000 foot tall mountain allows visitors many opportunities for exploration of its glory. Allow yourself plenty of time to explore. I recommend renting a car and stopping at the many view points along the road. Each clearing offers a unique opportunity to view the canyon from within or above. If you like hiking, do the Canyon Hike. This brings you down into the canyon, allowing you to view it from inside. Around halfway the path opens into a large cliff along the edge of the canyon side. Further down, hikers will find a waterfall with a small pool underneath. Many bring swimsuits and jump in for a break. Be prepared for the cold water! 

1: Nā Pali Coast tour

The Nā Pali coast is magical. Home to the largest sea cliffs in the world and lots of marine life. Keep your camera at the ready for dolphins, waterfalls, whales, and lots more! Our tour stopped for snorkeling and swimming along the way which provided a great break and opportunity to cool off during our 8 hour journey. We were able to jump off of the boat into deep blue water surrounded by fish. We swam for about an hour and then continued toward the cliffs. When we arrived it was absolutely breathtaking. Beautiful green cliffs above dolphins jumping beside our boat below. This experience was perfect (even with my seasickness) and I recommend it to any visitors.

Written by Julia Gordee 8/12/24