Top 5 Kauai Car Tours: Explore the Garden Isle on Wheels
Kauai, you see, it’s nicknamed the “Garden Isle,” and it definitely earns that title. Imagine a place packed with emerald valleys, sharp cliffs, and waterfalls practically at every turn; so, the only question really becomes how to see it all, right? Sure, there are helicopter tours, boat trips and the like; very, very arguably, a car tour provides the freedom to explore at your own pace and soak in every corner of this stunning island. This guide gives you a peek at five amazing car tours of Kauai, making sure you experience its remarkable beauty.
1. The Waimea Canyon Drive: Kauai’s Grand Canyon
This is Kauai’s Grand Canyon, they call it; rather appropriately, the Waimea Canyon stretches over ten miles and is up to 3,000 feet deep! Actually, this tour offers one of the most unforgettable vistas in all of Hawaii. Driving up Waimea Canyon Drive (Highway 550), you will pass multiple lookout points; anyway, you should stop at each one for a new and amazing perspective. The bright colors of the canyon walls and the sheer scope of the landscape are amazing; usually, they leave a lasting impression. Think reddish-browns, deep greens, and blue skies stretching out forever; alright, that’s Waimea Canyon!
What to Expect: Prepare for winding roads; it is what it is; apparently, they gradually ascend, providing better views the higher you climb. There are lots of spots to pull over and take photos; pretty much, you will want to stop often. Keep an eye out for wild goats and other local wildlife; honestly, they sometimes make appearances near the road. The final stop is usually at the Pu’u Hinahina or Pu’u o Kila lookouts, each offering special sights, is that cool or what? Actually, these viewpoints can have cooler temperatures and fog; naturally, it’s good to have a light jacket.
Local Tip: Try going early in the morning or late afternoon for better lighting and fewer crowds; in that case, your pictures will turn out amazingly. Also, bring binoculars; then again, you can spot details in the canyon walls and maybe even a waterfall or two; basically, if you are able to see a waterfall or two, your day will be so much better. So, plan at least three to four hours for this drive, maybe even more if you intend to do any hiking along the way. You know, hiking alongside these beautiful areas is what makes it worthwhile.
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2. The North Shore Loop: Hanalei and Beyond
The North Shore of Kauai; sometimes, it’s like a postcard come to life with dramatic cliffs, taro fields, and picturesque beaches; you can’t explain how amazing it truly is until you see it for yourself. Highway 560 winds its way along this coast; so, you’ll pass by lots of cool spots, from Hanalei Town to the end of the road at Ke’e Beach. That is, the drive itself is an adventure, with one-lane bridges and turns that show unreal scenery; very very few roads such as this can compare.
Hanalei Town: That is, your first major stop is pretty often Hanalei Town; this place is really chill with a relaxed vibe. Check out the shops, grab a bite to eat, and take a walk on Hanalei Bay; sometimes, they have the iconic pier! Apparently, this location offers fantastic photo opportunities. The backdrop of mountains and the bay’s calm waters will have you thinking about life; but anyway, that doesn’t matter.
Ke’e Beach and the Kalalau Trail: The road ends at Ke’e Beach; then again, it is also the beginning of the Kalalau Trail. It is a difficult hiking trail along the Na Pali Coast; actually, you don’t need to hike the whole thing to enjoy the views. Just a short walk offers unforgettable panoramas; yet, very few people have explored it all, it tends to be a difficult thing to achieve.
Local Tip: Especially in the summer, the North Shore can experience heavy rainfall; in that case, you will need to be prepared for wet conditions and muddy roads. Parking at Ke’e Beach can fill up early; still, it’s good to arrive early or use the shuttle service during peak season; so, there is an option if that arises. Don’t forget to stop at the Hanalei Valley Lookout; alright, you can see the vast taro fields below!
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3. The Coconut Coast Drive: East Side Delights
The Coconut Coast; literally, it refers to the eastern side of Kauai. In a way, it got its name from the lots of coconut palms you see along the coast. This drive, usually it’s a great way to experience Kauai’s more laid-back side. With stops like Lydgate Beach Park and the Wailua River, honestly, there’s something for everyone; that is what I was saying when I chose this as the third most impactful thing to do on this list.
Lydgate Beach Park: Is that a place you should go, you might ask? In that case, I will respond by saying that this park is a family-friendly spot with a protected lagoon for swimming; definitely, it’s a perfect place to take a dip in the water. You will often see people kayaking, so don’t forget your equipment if that’s the kind of fun that you’d enjoy! Anyway, that is probably for another trip.
Wailua River and the Fern Grotto: Very likely, a boat tour up the Wailua River is a must-do; you will visit the Fern Grotto, a natural lava cave adorned with hanging ferns. Actually, this cave is only accessible by boat; honestly, it makes the whole experience even more special. Apparently, there is also some local lore tied to this natural formation.
Local Tip: Consider stopping at some of the local restaurants and food trucks along the Coconut Coast; obviously, you can sample local Hawaiian cuisine. Get yourself some shaved ice. Very much worth your time; still, your diet might not love it too much! In a way, if you go south of the coast you can encounter a similar experience as this one.
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4. South Shore Exploration: Poipu and Spouting Horn
The South Shore; pretty much, it’s known for its sunny weather and great beaches. Very rarely will it rain on this part of the island, but you just have to come to find out! It is an experience that is hard to explain, but easy to enjoy. This area offers a great mix of relaxation and exploration; really, you should make this area one of your key focal points during a hypothetical trip to Kauai.
Poipu Beach: Quite the famous spot for sunbathing, swimming, and snorkeling; is that something you’d like? Very often, you’ll even see Hawaiian monk seals resting on the sand; you will still need to respect their space; as a matter of fact, it’s important to not come up too close. You can rent gear nearby and spend the day enjoying the calm waters and checking out the cool aquatic life that might come near the shore.
Spouting Horn: Arguably, this natural wonder is when ocean water shoots up through a lava tube, creating a geyser-like effect. Honestly, the sound is kind of like a horn; it makes the event worth the experience! Plus, the surrounding park offers fantastic views; by the way, don’t get wet from the seawater. It could be quite the unpleasant moment!
Local Tip: Plan to spend some time at the National Tropical Botanical Garden; actually, it showcases a great assortment of Hawaiian plants and flowers. Try out some local seafood; in some respects, you will notice that the South Shore has amazing dining options! Get some coffee from local sellers; the coffee that can be purchased here is a truly unique treat, so I can only encourage it.
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5. Inland Adventure: Koloa Town and the Tree Tunnel
Kauai’s interior has some surprises too, especially with old towns like Koloa. You pass through the famous Tree Tunnel. Apparently, that offers a different perspective of the island; that is, not the beaches but all that forest on the inside of the island. You can check out some nice old buildings, such as some from the Koloa Sugar Company. It’s also home to many unique shops that are guaranteed to have what you’re searching for!
Koloa Town: Koloa is a historic town that used to be a sugar plantation. Today, it has little shops, places to eat, and buildings that hint back to what was a thriving sugar culture. It is worth exploring as a great opportunity to walk and learn.
The Tree Tunnel: This impressive, natural pathway of eucalyptus trees. These trees form an impressive entry that looks special when entering into the region. People that have driven across the USA may not be as amused by this, as the USA has great landmarks; in fact, they make the landmark stand out due to the natural canopy of tree branches above your head.
Local Tip: Stop in the local markets and bakeries. You get local goodies from cookies to malasadas and different fresh fruit depending on what’s in season. Look around when stopping, and perhaps visit a local store or landmark that you did not consider previously, just to experience something different. A deviation off the common route never hurts and is most likely well worth your time.
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