This is the part of your vacation you've dreamed about -- the sun, the sand, and the surf. In this section we'll tell you about the best beaches on Kauai, from where to soak up the rays to where to plunge beneath the waves for a fish's-eye-view of the underwater world. Plus, we've scoured the island to find the best ocean activities on the Garden Isle. We'll tell you our favorites, and give you a list of the best marine outfitters. Also in this section is a range of activities to do on dry land, from hiking and camping to the best golfing on the island.
Not So Close! They Hardly Know You--In your excitement at seeing a whale or a school of dolphins, don't get too close -- both are protected under the Marine Mammals Protection Act. Swimmers, kayakers, and windsurfers must stay at least 100 yards away from all whales, dolphins, and other marine mammals. And yes, visitors have been prosecuted for swimming with dolphins! If you have any questions, call the National Marine Fisheries Service (tel. 808/541-2727) or the Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary (tel. 800/831-4888).
Especially for Kids
Surfing with an Expert -- If seven-time world champ Margo Oberg, a member of the Surfing Hall of Fame, can't get your kid -- or you -- up on a board riding a wave, nobody can. She promises same-day results even for klutzes.
Paddling up the Huleia River -- Indiana Jones ran for his life up this river to his seaplane in Raiders of the Lost Ark. You and the kids can venture down it yourself in a kayak. The picturesque Huleia winds through tropically lush Huleia National Wildlife Refuge, where endangered species like great blue herons and Hawaiian gallinules take wing. It's ideal for everyone.
Cooling Off with a Shave Ice -- On a hot, hot day, stop by Brennecke's Beach Broiler, across from Poipu Beach Park (tel. 808/742-1582), and order a traditional Hawaiian shave ice. This local treat consists of crushed ice stuffed into a paper cone and topped with a tropical-flavored syrup. If you can't decide on a flavor, go for the "rainbow" -- three different flavors in one cone.
Exploring a Magical World -- Na Aina Kai Botanical Gardens, located on about 240 acres sprinkled with some 70 life-size (some larger than life-size) whimsical bronze statues, and hidden off the beaten path of the North Shore, is perfect for kids. The tropical children's garden features a gecko hedge maze, a tropical jungle gym, a treehouse in a rubber tree, and a 16-foot-tall Jack and the Bean Stalk Giant with a 33-foot wading pool below. Na Aina Kai is only open 3 days a week, so book before you leave for Hawaii to avoid disappointment.
Experiencing a Hands-On Learning Adventure -- The Kauai Children's Discovery Museum, located in Kapaa (tel. 808/823-8222; www.kcdm.org), resulted from a grass-roots community effort. The exhibits offer activities ranging from playing with Hawaiian musical instruments, to participating in virtual reality television, to hiding out in a "magic treehouse" and reading a book. (There's even a "baby area" for kids 4 and under.) There are also Keiki Camps (Children's Camps) where you can leave the kids all day. The kids will be taken on outings to the beach and other points of interest.
