Kauai Family Vacation

Far off in the Pacific Ocean is an island group that is filled with native culture, beautiful flora, and the interesting formations caused by centuries of volcanic activity, most of which is now dormant. This island group is known as Hawaii. As the last state to enter the union, Hawaii is sometimes referred to as "The Youngest State". This is the place many people, families and couples alike, hope and dream to visit one day. As soon as you step off the plane you are greeted by native residents with a colorful lei and aloha. From here you must decide what you want to do. If nothing else, you must attend an authentic luau, see the Wiamea Canyon, visit Kee Beach, and explore the Napali Coast, all on the island of Kauai.

We often see on television people enjoying a traditional Hawaiian Luau complete with dancers, native music, and delicious food. The Wailua River Valley has been home to the Smith Family Luau’s for over fifty years. Surrounded by tropical paradise, the family has endeavored to instill the spirit of aloha and ‘ohana (family) to everyone they meet. The feast, or pa’ina, is the center of the luau complete with a roasted pig that has been cooked in an earthen oven. Teriyaki beef, mahi-mahi (fish), and chicken adobo complete the meat selections. Traditional poi is also offered and Grandma Smith says that everyone should try it! You will invited to get up on stage and learn how to hula dance while enjoying the music that surrounds you, music that has been passed down from generation from generation. You’ll get to see the Tahitian drum and Samoan fire knife dances and be able to relax and take in the traditions around you. Price for the luau, if booked online and in advance, is around $67.50 for adults.

You simply cannot complete your vacation without going and visiting the Waimea Canyon, the Grand Canyon Of The Pacific. This is largest canyon in the Pacific waters measuring ten miles long, a mile wide, and more than 3,500 feet deep, small only in comparison to the Grand Canyon. Mount Waialeale, a dormant volcane, towers above the canyon, water floods, and volcanic lava having slowly made their way down its side to carve out the wonder. As a matter of fact, observant visitors can see the way the volcano’s debris helped form each layer of rock over the long centuries. The canyon is part of the Koke’e State Park, and you will enjoy the many trails that are scattered throughout the canyon and the park as you tour this unique sight.

A day at the beach is also in order and one of the most beautiful Hawaiian shores can be found on the North side of Kauai. Kee Beach has the unique honor of having been in major motions pictures and television mini-series. It is also associated with Taylor Camp, one of the biggest hippy hangouts ever to have been known during that time. The western end of Kee Beach is where the adventurous souls will find the beginning of the Kalalau Trail, an elven mile hike up in the Napali Coast area that leads to Kalalau Beach. There are two native religious shrines near Kee Beach and Ulua fish and other species swim rampant in the lagoon that is wonderful for swimming and could be considered one of the best snorkeling spots in Hawaii. But beware! The currents here are strong and swimmers should take care not to be swept out to sea.

Finally, you are going to want to visit the world famous, Napali Coast and walk along the velvet green cliffs as you look out over the Pacific Ocean and enjoy the beauty of the many waterfalls in Hawaii that plummet into the deep valleys within. The Kalalau Trail, which starts at Kee Beach, is the only way to get into this paradise. The trail is eleven miles long, crosses five different valleys, and ends at the very secluded Kalalau Beach. It is a challenging walk, filled with narrow sections and loose topsoil after a good rainfall. Many people turn this into a two day hike, opting to camp at Hanakapiai beach before moving on. Camping permits are needed and available at the State Parks office in Lihue and it is recommended to have a guide during the winter. If hiking is not your thing, then you can take a Zodiac boat tour or kayak trip instead, giving you a beautiful ocean view. And if you want see the areas of the Napali Coast that’s not accessible by land or sea, indulge in a helicopter tour and make sure you bring your camera.

For more Hawaii vacation ideas and beautiful tropical pictures of Hawaii, see our link.