What to Do in East Kauai
Planning a much deserved vacation in Kauai? Why not explore its eastern side known as the Coconut Coast? For sure, there are tourist spots and activities that are unique to this part of the island. Basically, the list of activities will be the same, but the scenic views would make a big difference. If you want to make sightseeing a special activity for you, then you must engage in many underwater activities and even go on tours to see everything up close. From marine exploration to hiking trails, the natural wonders of East Kauai are within reach.
East Kauai is waiting to be explored by you. All you need to do is familiarize yourself with scenic spots in this part of the island and have a good idea of how you can turn your vacation into a memorable island adventure. Aside from accommodations, your itinerary also requires some careful planning. You'll surely find a long list of fun and exciting activities here. Whether you decide to tour with a group or go solo, taking in the island's true wonders is simply rewarding. Discover Kauai and make the most of your stay with the countless adventures you can choose from. Here are a few suggestions:
Ground tours
You may start your East Kauai escapades with ground tours. Enjoy the sun, laze around the grassy fields, and take full advantage of the island’s captivating beauty. Strolling in the lush gardens, biking, hiking, and horseback riding are among the things you can do while on tour. Of course, golf enthusiasts surely wouldn't want to miss practicing their swings on East Kauai's golf courses.
Mountain biking
Discovering the Coconut Coast by biking is like hitting two birds with one stone. You get to exercise while you discover the real splendor of the island. You can choose to bike effortlessly on paved roads or moderately for in-between places. Also watch out for those sharp curves, where it’s steep and the stops are abrupt.
For amateur bikers, they should enjoy the ride on evenly leveled roads to make it easier for them to get around the island. While biking, you will get the chance to see Kauai landmarks such as the Wailua Falls along the Ma'alo Road, sandy beaches that stretch from east to west, and the Spalding Monument. Just make sure that you always wear your protective biking gear to avoid untoward incidents. The scenic ride will surely take you closer to the Coconut Coast's attractions at a leisurely pace.
Hiking
Don’t miss the chance to go hiking on East Kauai trails. You may get some maps from the Department of Land and Natural Resources and the Division of State Parks to make it easier for you to get around this part of the island. Travelers are well advised to indulge in this physical activity. Although tiring, the scenic view, fresh air, and peaceful surrounding will make it worth your while. Majority of Kauia’s territory is not accessible by road, so hiking is definitely one way of touring the island up close while maintaining your physical fitness. Be sure to prepare before hiking; bear in mind all of the safety tips and guidelines for this strenuous but exciting activity.
To avoid getting lost and to learn more about the island attractions, it's best to go on tour. The tour guide will surely make the trip more enjoyable by giving you insights on different landmarks and tourist spots. This is also recommended for group travelers.
Exciting water adventures
The eastern part of Kauai also offers a wide arrray of fun and exciting water adventures. You may join boat tours on the island and savor the magnificent spatter of the ocean while cruising and sailing with your loved ones. If you have kids with you, they will surely enjoy and never forget the other thrilling water escapades, such as whale watching, fishing, diving, and snorkeling.
* Snorkeling
The Coconut Coast has various locations for snorkeling, thanks to its calm and cool waters. Amateur snorkeling enthusiasts should choose a shallow area for this water activity. They can go to Anini Beach while in East Kauai, which has been proven safe for beginners. Poipu Beach Park is another area that offers good snorkeling spots, while other beach parks are also known for their colorful tropical fish that makes snorkeling all the more exciting.
For experienced snorklers, though, there are the reefs of Kee Beach and Haena Beach Park, which are very well known snorkeling spots in this part of the island. There is also the Tunnels Beach in Haena, with a reef that's just perfect for snorkeling adventures. Make sure, though, that you check first the current of the waters to ensure safe underwater activity. You should also do your share in preserving these coral reefs. Make sure that you won't destroy any natural habitat or disturb the marine creature.
* Kayak and paddling tours
As soon as you set foot on East Kauai, prepare yourself for some action-packed kayaking activity in the island. Hire a professional guide when kayaking along the Wailua River. There are cruise boats and kayak rentals on its south side. You can also cross the bridge to the popular Fern Grotto, a lava rock grotto embedded with tropical ferns. Or, if you wish to kayak for a much longer time, then you should try the Hanalei River, which is one of the longest kayaking paths that pass through Kauai’s plains. You can also take a peek at Kalihiwai, which showcases its own superb scenery.
* Scuba diving
Divers, whether amateur or professional, will definitely take pleasure in Kauai as a diving location, since the island presents loads of sites to scuba dive. The island offers dives ranging from boat dives, night dives, and other various dive tours that offer an exciting discovery of the abundant ocean life, such as tropical fish and reef creatures, dolphins, and sea turtles. Diving gear and other diving equipment may also be rented in the island, if you did not bring yours. Or, if you wish to buy one, there are several dive shops in East Kauai.
If you’re an experienced diver, you might as well take your gripping dives on the east shores of Kauai, while those who are amateurs in the turf of diving should start with designated sites for beginners. Kauai even boasts of having caves and lava tubes, which can be stimulating diving targets for the more advanced or professional divers. The island bestows certifications on anyone who wants to get certified, as long as he or she has a medical paperwork to present.
* Whale watching tours
Don't miss the fun of watching whales come out of the water in East Kauai’s shores. You can catch a glimpse of the whales also in various parts of the island such as the Kilauea Point National Wildlife Refuge, the Kalalau Trail on the North Shore, Kukui O Lono Park at Kalaheo, and Poipu Beach. It’s more amusing, though, if you watch these water creatures while on a boat tour since you can come closer to the whales while they jump out of the water, making the experience much more intimate. No need to bring binoculars. If you want to do this particular activity, schedule your vacation from late November through early May for the peak season for whale watching.
Shopping on the island
Before you end hopping throughout the east of Kauai, be sure to drop by their small souvenir shops and malls. You can purchase several unique souvenir items to bring home such as Aloha shirts, jewelry, home and personal accessories, and some works of art.
The eastern side of Kauai presents a variety of fun shops and eateries. There is Lihue and the Kalapaki area, which offer country stores, fine art shops, gift shops, and farmers' markets, where you can buy loads of stuff to bring home including soaps, paintings, apparel, coffee, Kukui guava jams, fabrics, and many other collectible items. Should you get starved after a tiring day, go to the Wailua Shopping Plaza that houses several restaurants for sumptuous Hawaiian food.
There is also the Coconut Marketplace, which is an umbrella venue for 70 shops selling precious Hawaiian souvenirs, fine works of art, various antiques, jewelry, craft items, and so much more. Also, don’t miss going to Kapaa Town and Kinipopo Shopping Village where you can find the best buys for various Aloha shirts, vintage maps, fine art, and jewelry for your loved ones back home.