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Located at the base of Kauai’s Sleeping Giant Mountain, Kapaa also provides stunning natural scenery, warm and friendly locals, and a small-town vibe that visitors find relaxing. Kick back on the beach with a bottle of Nani Moon Mead or explore the shops of the Kinipopo Shopping Village in this charming and picturesque village.

Want to learn more about the local flora and fauna? Visit Smith’s Tropical Paradise and see everything as it should be in its natural habitat. A visit to the Kadavul Hindu Temple can renew worn and weary spirits, as can the sublime beauty of the Ho'olalaea Waterfall. Finally, if you’re up to something a bit more strenuous, a stunning, 360-degree view of the Island’s east side can be seen while hiking the Sleeping Giant Trail, or you can indulge yourself with kayaking, surfing the waters just off the island, paddle-boarding, or other exhilarating water sports—all right here in Kauai.

Along with stunning natural beauty, natural attractions and landmarks, Kauai also offers an abundance of fun and fascinating events and activities. With that in mind, check out the list below for a few suggestions for February activities.

Waimea Town Celebration

An outrigger canoe regatta, crafts, rodeo, vendors, live entertainment, food, and a beer garden will all be a part of the Waimea Town Celebration. From February 15-23, this nine-day event becomes one huge party. Honoring both Hawaiian heritage as well as multi-ethnicities, the event plays host to thousands annually.

Hanapepe Friday Night Festival & Art Walk

Happening every Friday, Old Town Hanapepe offers an evening of fun for the entire family. You’ll find art galleries and loads of additional shopping, including the work of local crafters. You’ll also find restaurants, classic cars, stilt walkers, and live entertainment.

Kaua’i Quilt Show 2020

Head over to the Kauai Society of Arts Gallery on February 25 for this impressive annual display of fabric art. You’ll find over 70 quilts on display, and many will be for sale. Also, smaller, hand-crafted items will also be up for grabs.

Located on the south side of the island, the Kauai Coffee Company’s four million-plus trees are spread across 3,100 acres and grown in the island’s rich volcanic soil. The company makes about 60% of the state’s total coffee crop and has a rich, 200-year-old history that they enjoy sharing with visitors.

Learn all about how they produce your favorite morning brew, from seed to cup—and don’t miss a stop at the complimentary coffee bar. Here, you can sample as many different coffees (along with sugar and assorted creamers) as you want. A variety of tours are available, including a simple and self-guided walking tour, an open-air truck journey, and fun and exciting, but teams-only, scavenger hunt. After touring and sampling, include a stop at the museum and gift shop for souvenirs and more Kauai Coffee to take home.

Instead of “White Christmas,” you’ll be singing “Mele Kalikimaka” as you celebrate the holidays with the fabulous Kauai traditions listed here. First, head over to Hanapepe at Old Town on December 6 for the Hanapepe Friday Night Festival & Art Walk. Browse art galleries and handmade crafts as you enjoy live music and entertainment. Also on December 6, join us for the Lights on Rice Christmas Parade. One of Kauai’s most popular annual events, this is a family-friendly must-see event. On December 7, shop the NTBG Holiday Craft Fair.

You’ll find an eclectic selection of Kauai-made items, clothing, and jewelry, along with food trucks, live entertainment, and tours of the gardens. And, don’t miss Elizabeth Freeman’s award-winning Festival of Lights. From December 6 – 28, this fascinating collection of holiday art features thousands of lights and Kauai-inspired artwork made from reclaimed and recycled materials. Featuring such whimsical holiday themes as the SPAM Can Tree and Aloha Recycled Treasures, the Festival will provide trained docents to greet guests and discuss the event’s history and the decorations.

Matilda, the Musical

Hawaii Children’s Theatre is proud to present Roald Dahl’s famous story in the form of a musical. Matilda the Musical tells the tale of a special little girl with a extraordinary imagination who makes things happen in the most amazing way. After opening on November 15, the show will run on three consecutive weekends through December 1, including a special performance on November 17 to benefit the Kauai Food Banks.

Kaua‘i Old Time Gathering

Join us at Koke‘e State Park from November 21-24 for music, workshops, food, and fun while we honor our cultural heritage with activities from old time days. There’ll be singing, ukulele, steel guitar and washtub bass playing, dancers, and mountain campfires. Learn about hula, basket weaving, or bring your own instruments and jam – all skill levels are welcome! This year’s featured artists include Louisiana’s The Magnolia Sisters, whose Cajun-French musical stylings are renowned throughout the nation.

Eo e Emalani I Alaka‘i – October 12

This annual commemoration of Queen Emma’s 1871 visit to West Kauai is set among the dazzling scenic beauty of the Kōkeʻe State Park. The Queen will arrive at 11 am, accompanied by authentic Hawaiian music. During the event, attendees can browse the crafts and exhibits, bid on items in a silent auction, and feast on some of the island’s tastiest culinary offerings.

Hammers N’ Ales Oktoberfest – October 12

Join us at the Poipu Beach Athletic Club for this third annual fundraiser in support of affordable housing. This event will offer craft beer from both Hawaii and the mainland, delicious food from some of our best local eateries, Oktoberfest contests, and live music from Homestead and Cruz Control.

Kauai Chocolate and Coffee Festival – October 18-19

Come out to historic Hanapepe Town and indulge your chocolate and coffee cravings with vendors offering coffee and chocolate products from around the state. You’ll also find live entertainment, presentations, and Keiki activities.

This week-long celebration of Hawaiian culture will include the traditional church service to kick off the event on Sunday, September 22, a flowerless lei contest, and the Kauai Composers Concert and Contest at the Waimea Theatre, which fosters new music compositions in a variety of categories.

There will also be a singing competition by students in the immersion school programs. Additionally, programs and demonstrations will be given on such events as the making of natural dyes and a cultural workshop that showcases the coconut and its multiple uses. A solo hula competition features the art of Kahiko, the ancient style of the dance, along with a sprinkling of Kauai. Lastly, don’t miss the grand finale of the group hula competition that features Auana, or modern hula.

First, head over to Vidinha Stadium from August 15-18 for the ever-popular Kauai County Farm Bureau Fair. You’ll find fabulous island food, fantastic entertainment, and loads of fun. Don’t miss the fascinating floral and cooking demos, along with a petting zoo, carnival rides, a hula halau exhibition, fruit and veggie competitions, a Keiki talent showcase, and more!

This four-day community-wide event concentrates its focus on the island’s agriculture, with proceeds going to 4-H, and other agricultural hobbyist and commodity groups. Next, join us at the National Tropical Botanical Garden at the McBryde Garden on August 17 for the Annual Moonlight & Music fundraiser. Sponsored by the Koloa Rum Company, this magnificent gala will offer a silent auction featuring unique, garden-themed items, and benefits plant research, critical plant conservation, and educational efforts. Come out to imbibe delicious cocktails, enjoy a meal of culinary brilliance, and dance the night away under a starry sky.

Happening July 19-28, this event honors the plantation heritage of Koloa and Poipu along with the Hawaiian culture and the diversity of ethnic peoples who immigrated and settled here. The festivities feature an abundant array of activities, beginning with the opening Sunset Ho'olaulea, and continues with a bang with bull-riding, championship roping, and additional events during the 20^th Annual Plantation Days Rodeo.

Other activities include a guided walk on the historic Hapa Trail, Keiki Fishing at Waita, a miniature golf tournament, Polynesian fire dancing, traditional Hawaiian games, a ukulele competition, a historic Sugar exhibit, storytelling, tours of the McBryde Garden and the National Tropical Botanical Garden, a craft fair, and loads of music, food, and fun. One of the most eagerly-anticipated culminating events is the spectacular parade that runs through Old Koloa Town and includes cowboys, hula dancers, and many other colorful characters. Most events are free or low-cost.

Dad will be delighted by Kauai’s dazzling white sand, sparkling waters, and lush tropical gardens. The island is chock-full of fun activities and events, and he’ll find that there is something for all interests and tastes. Both Hanalei Bay Beach and Poipu Beach are at the top of USA Today’s Best Hawaiian Beach list, and the island offers some of the world’s best hiking trails too.

It’s almost always “surf’s up” here as well as an ideal time to go kayaking, scuba diving, swimming, and partake in an array of other water sports. Take a walking tour of the Kauai Coffee Plantation and sample a variety of java while learning more about the harvest and roasting process. Or, explore the National Tropical Botanical Garden’s flora and fauna and learn about the rare species they are working to preserve. Join them every week at the South Shore Visitor’s Center in Poipu for a traditional hula show and don’t miss their monthly Twilight Tour on June 17. We’re betting that Dad will have such a terrific time that you’ll want to make reservations at Plantation Hale again for next June!

No matter your desired activity or level of interest and experience, we offer something for everyone. You and that special someone can plan your days as you wish, whether it's surfing, touring a coffee plantation, hiking, exploring lush tropical gardens, or just lying on the beach with a tropical drink in hand.

Start by exploring the island at your own pace – stroll leisurely, hike, rent a bike, or splurge on a helicopter tour to see breathtaking views that are otherwise inaccessible. One of the most romantic ways to view the stunning Na Pali coastline is with a sunset catamaran cruise, or by renting a couple of kayaks and going off on your own. We also offer snorkeling, zip-lining, surfing, and even whale watching, depending on the season. Be sure to check out the famous Spouting Horn, the Kauai Coffee Plantation, the National Tropical Botanical Gardens, and the many additional activities offered on Kauai.

First, don’t miss the dazzling beauty of the Na Pali Coast. The Coast offers an abundance of beaches ideal for snorkeling, snuba, or scuba diving. Kayakers will have a blast on the Hanalei River or kayaking up the Wailua River for a fabulous view of the Secret Sacred Falls. For more water adventures, go surfing or mountain tubing.

Not into water sports? No problem—go ziplining at a variety of locations around the island, or get in a few holes of golf at any of our signature courses. Explore more of the island via hiking, biking, ATV tours, or horseback rides. Of course, it wouldn’t be a genuine Hawaiian vacation without an evening at a traditional luau accompanied by a spectacular Polynesian dance show! No matter your age, preferences, or budget, a fabulous getaway awaits you right here in Kauai.

Situated at the base of Sleeping Giant Mountain on the island of Kauai, Kapaa offers their visitors and guests a plethora of entertaining options for their consideration, no matter their age or interests. For those seeking to create some epic endorphins while enjoying a magnificent, 360-degree view of the Island’s east side, we suggest a hike on Sleeping Giant Trail or immerse yourself in the sublime beauty of the Ho'olalaea Waterfall.

A myriad of water sports are available here, such as kayaking, paddle-boarding, or surfing. For a gentler pace of exploration, browse the shops of the Kinipopo Shopping Village, or visit Kauai’s Hindu monastery, the Kadavul Hindu Temple. For close-up observation of lush tropical plants, birds, and more of the Island’s flora and fauna in their natural habitat, head over to Smith’s Tropical Paradise. Finally, enjoy a refreshing taste of Kauai with a bottle of Nani Moon Mead while relaxing on the beach.

For your consideration, a few of our favorites are listed here. First, don’t miss the Kauai Community Player’s presentation of The Shadow Box from February 14 - March 3 at the Puhi Theatrical Warehouse. The Pulitzer-Prize-winning drama is directed by Jo Grande. Next, come out and show your support for the Hawaii Children’s Theatre at their Annual Whale Watch Fundraiser on February 24. Board Captain Andy’s Trimaran, and set sail for adventure, while enjoying complimentary food and drinks. All proceeds will benefit the Children’s Theatre.

And, feed your inner chocolate gremlin with the Build-A-Bar Workshops for Chocolate at Wild Kauai Chocolate. Experiment with your own unique, gourmet, bean to bar creation! Lastly, join us on February 16-24 for the Waimea Town Celebration: Heritage of Aloha. An annual nine-day, epic party on the island’s west side, this event celebrates both the Hawaiian and multi-ethnic heritage of the town. Thousands will come out for the fun, food, crafts, rodeo, games, vendors, entertainment, and beer garden.

First, learn more about the island’s history with a Waimea Historic Walking Tour. This tour is available each Monday and provides participants a two-and-one-half journey back in time – to the place of Captain Cook’s landing. You’ll hear of the missionaries who came to the island, the last king of Kauai, and other notable islanders during this memorable and entertaining tour.

Next, check out Kauai’s Sunshine Markets at different locations during the week. You’ll find the freshest local produce, fruits, flowers, and more at each and every island location. Lastly, don’t miss the Kauai Community Players’ performance of “Arsenic and Old Lace” on January 17^th. The beloved and hilarious tale of the Brewster family has been a stage and film favorite for generations. For more information, call (808) 245-7700.

We’ve got the ideal setting for your Christmas vacation, along with an abundant assortment of holiday-themed events and activities for you to enjoy. A few of our favorites are listed here for your consideration. First, join us at Kauai Community College on December 11 for a screening of the film, “Saving Ohia,” regarding how to save this native and sacred Hawaiian tree species suffering from a new fungal disease.

Next, grab your holiday shopping list and come out to the K-Mart parking lot on December 15 for the Holly Jolly Holiday Fair. Vendors will be selling only certified, Kauai-made products. Many are unique, and all will make fabulous Christmas gifts and stocking stuffers. Lastly, don’t miss the chance to spend New Year’s Eve here. The annual aerial Fireworks display at Poipu Beach Park is a stunner, and one of the most popular events on the island. Hope to see you there!

CocoFest, which is intended to “promote, preserve and enhance the quality of life and business along the Royal Coconut Coast,” will be a little different this year, due to some damage on the north and east coasts of the island. Instead of a multiple-day event, this year’s CocoFest will be one enormous, all-day-long, triple event extravaganza. Presented by the Kapaa Business Association, CocoFest is one of the island’s premier events.

We’ll kick off the all-things-coconut festivities on Saturday morning with the Kauai Veterans Parade, which will finish at the park. Shortly after the parade’s end, CocoFest will officially begin, featuring food, entertainment, cultural and historical displays, shopping, games, cooking demos, contests, crafters, kids activities, and so much more. Also, this year will include our inaugural “Kauai’s Got Talent” contest, featuring talented kids from schools all across the island. Judges will be presenting numerous awards and prizes, and we’re all looking forward to some fabulous acts, loads of fun, and maybe even Kauai’s next megastar entertainer!

First, we invite you to join us in honoring Queen Emma at the Eo e Emalani Festival on October 13 at Kokee State Park. The festival will feature Hawaiian music and chants, outstanding food, crafts, exhibits, and more. Queen Emma and her entourage will arrive on horseback at 11:00 a.m. Visitors are encouraged to carpool and bring their own seating. Next up is the Kauai Chocolate & Coffee Festival in historic Hanapepe Town on October 19-20.

This festival will feature chocolate and coffee products that are grown in Hawaii and will include lots of sampling, entertainment, exhibitor booths, farm tours, and more. Lastly, the Hanapepe Walk and Talk Story will be ongoing twice weekly through January 3, 2019. This 90-minute trek is a delightful journey into the past, with stories that both entertain and educate. Along with the stories, participants will be treated to breathtaking views of Hanapepe Valley, and strain their ears to hear the ghostly voices from the Hanapepe Massacre at the century-old town bridge. For more information, click here.

Different events of this week-long celebration of Hawaiian culture and history will be held at several venues throughout the island, beginning with a Hawaiian church service at the Kapaa First Hawaiian Church on September 23. The historical Waimea Theater will host the 33^rd Annual Kauai Composers Contest and Concert on September 24.

This event promotes the composition of new music in the following categories: Hawaiian, Contemporary Hawaiian, Open and Professional. Cash prizes and trophies will be awarded. The various Hula competitions will all be held at the Kauai War Memorial Convention Center Hall on September 27-29 and will feature the following categories: Solo/Group Kahiko, or ancient-style hula, Auana, or modern hula, and the Solo, Auana, and Finale on the final day of the competition. Awards will be presented by the Hawaii Community Foundation. For details, call (808) 822-2166.

This family-oriented fair also features the traditional fair events, such as a petting zoo, bingo, a livestock show, exhibits, and food booths. The rides at this year’s fair include Pharaoh’s Fury, Magic Maze, Area 51, Zero Gravity, and many more. In other events, the 9^th Annual Kauai Coffee Celebrity Chef Cookoff for Charity will be held on August 17.

Warm-up your vocal cords to win $500 in the 2nd Annual Karaoke All-Stars Contest, and show off your best talent chops for the KIUC Keiki Talent Showcase. Budding designers and models can create and model their best outfit or lei made from flowers, ferns, fruit, or agriculture haiku, and win a cash prize, a gift certificate, or a gift basket. Finally, do you constantly take selfies? Well, here’s your chance to cash in on your narcissism, because Alaska Airlines is sponsoring a Fun at the Fair Selfie Contest, with a grand prize of air travel for two. Get the details here!

This yearly concert and fireworks show not only celebrates our country’s independence but is also a fundraiser for Kauai Hospice. The concert will be held at the Vidinha Stadium in Lihue. Next, be sure to stick around for a weeklong tribute to the island’s plantation heritage. Koloa Plantation Days will be held July 20-29, and will include such events as a parade, the Hapa Road Walk, the Paddle Fest, the Paniolo Rodeo, the Sunset Ho'olaule'a, a miniature golf tournament, a craft fair, traditional Hawaiian games, entertainment, and lots of delicious ethnic food!

A family fun run, a Keiki Ukulele contest, and the Koloa Rum Plantation Heritage Dinner are additional featured events. The festival also honors the rich cultural diversity of Kauai and the historic traditions of the Koloa. Additionally, the Annual Koloa Plantation Days Rodeo will feature kids Mutton-Busting, or sheep-riding, Keiki Barrel Racing, Junior Steer Riding, and Stick Horse/Dummy Roping. The adult events include Bull Riding, Barrel Racing, Wild Cow Milking, Break-away Roping, and High Dollar Team Roping. For more information, click here.

Poipu Beach and Hanalei Bay Beach top USA Today’s Best Hawaiian Beach list, so it’s no wonder that we’re one of the premier vacation destinations and an ideal setting for the following three events. First, voted the “Best Community Event” for ten years running, the 12^th Annual Taste of Hawaii, Kapaa will return on June 3. This “Ultimate Sunday Brunch” will feature dozens of chefs and beverage vendors offering up their Sunday best. For tickets, click here.

Don’t miss the King Kamehameha Celebration and Parade on June 9. Honoring the great King Kamehameha I, this year’s parade theme is “Dawn of a New Day.” Colorful, flower-draped Pau Island Horse Units and floats will be on display, along with food, crafts, and lots of Hawaiian entertainment. Lastly, on June 24, get ready to bring your primo game to the 10th Annual Charity Golf Tournament at Makai Golf Club. An awards luncheon on the “19th hole” will include live entertainment and prizes, along with a helicopter ball drop for cash prizes. For details, call (808) 827-8808.

The Hawaii Lodging & Tourism Association, sponsors of the Kauai Charity Walk, invites everyone 12 and older to participate in the walk, and all walkers and supporters can be assured that all proceeds will be distributed to Kauai non-profits only. This event, now almost 40 years old, also provides helpers, refreshments, and entertainment at many of the checkpoints and at the end of the three-mile walk. For more information, call the HLTA Kauai Chapter at (808) 855-5321.

Don’t miss out on the next Kilauea Art Night on May 26. This popular monthly festival features local artisans, live music, and some of the island’s best food trucks. Savor fresh fish tacos or pulled-pork sandwiches while you listen to the bands. Stroll and browse the wares of over 40 artisan vendors on the historic stone building grounds, selling everything from jewelry to pottery, paintings, apparel, and more. For more information, click here.   

In addition to beautiful fruit, the market also offers a large variety of fresh veggies, herbs, plants, flowers, leis, crafts, handmade jewelry, massage therapists, eggs, fresh honey, and plate lunches. Here, not only can you take advantage of a rich array of fresh produce, but you can chat with local farmers, artisans, and craftspeople as you browse among the items they offer for sale.

Founded in 2014, the Kalalea/Anahola Farmer's Hui is a nonprofit organization created to promote native Hawaiian cultural, educational, nutritional and charitable farming practices in the community of Anahola, as well as revitalize the area’s farming community. The Hui’s primary objectives are to promote the availability of healthy foods, increase agricultural productivity, and maintain and expand the community marketplace. For details on the Sunday Farmer’s Market, click here.  

The village’s stunning natural beauty, tourist-friendly locals, and boundless entertainments and attractions have made this a well-deserved award, as its variety looms far larger than its size. No matter your age, abilities, or areas of interest, Kapaa offers its visitors many options, only a few of which are listed below.

For a spectacular 360-degree view of the east side of Kauai, hike the Sleeping Giant Trail or find your own Zen at the Kadavul Hindu Temple, Kauai’s Hindu monastery. Discover the Island’s tropical plants, birds, and other wildlife at Smith’s Tropical Paradise, view the majestic beauty of Ho'olalaea Waterfall, and browse the Kinipopo Shopping Village. If you’re feeling fit, try surfing, kayaking, paddle-boarding, or other water sports available here, or just lounge on the beach with a bottle of Nani Moon Mead, handcrafted from local honey, fruits, and spices. Spring has never seemed sunnier! 

No matter if you’re marriage is entering its second year or it's 50th, if you’re considering renewing your vows; we suggest you come to the beautiful island of Kauai. You couldn’t ask for better weather, as it’s almost always warm and sunny here, and a variety of unique attractions and scenic settings on the island make this an ideal place for the renewal of your vows.

For those unfamiliar with the island, we suggest the following locations: the Princeville Botanical Gardens and Smith’s Tropical Paradise both provide stunning views of flora and fauna. Hanalei, whose iconic pier was shown in the 1957 movie “South Pacific,” is considered one of the most spectacular places for natural beauty, with white sands and green valleys accentuated by cliffs. There are plenty of churches on the island for those who prefer a spiritual setting, or, for those who want something different, consider the popular Spouting Horn or even amidst a helicopter tour of the island!

However, many visitors are often unaware of what’s available regularly on the island. These ongoing events occur at specific dates and times, and the public is always welcome. First, check out the Coconut Marketplace on Wednesdays for a free Hula show, and on Fridays for live Hawaiian sounds with Music Legend Larry Rivera. For more Hawaiian music, Doug and Sandy McMaster present Hawaiian Slack performances at various venues, dates, and times. For details, click here.

The first Friday of each month is free movie night under the stars at the Anaina Hou Community Park. For lineup and times, click here. Every Friday is Art Night in Hanapepe with all galleries open to visitors and shoppers. Also, Second Saturdays in Hanalei Town features a variety of different events, including art nights, fashion shows, movies, hula, and children’s theatre. All events are family-friendly. For details, call (808) 635-2074. Finally, the Kauai Museum in Lihu‘e offers free admission, classes, and rotating exhibits each month. For details, call (808) 245–6931.

Sing along as Malama Pono Health Services traditional holiday fundraiser, “Kauai Sings Christmas” on Saturday, December 10. Proceeds go towards ongoing health care services for island residents. Next, don’t miss Kauai’s annual Festival of Lights. Browse hand-crafted items and Auntie Josie’s offerings, and visit with Santa and Mrs. Claus every Friday, Saturday and Sunday evening from 6 pm to 8 pm. until December 24. For more information, call (808) 639-8564.

Lastly, join us at the Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort and Spa on Friday, December 22, for the island’s 31^st Annual Holiday Hula Christmas Celebration. From 3 pm to 9 pm, over 100 musicians and dancers from Halau Na Hula O Kaohikukapulani will perform songs, chants, and dances that honor nature and the islands, along with some festive holiday selections. For tickets, call Haru at (808) 634-5746, Maka at (808) 652-2761, or contact Na Hula O Kaohikukapulani at (808) 651-3099.

The Haaheo sunk to the bottom of the Hanalei Bay and was considered unrecoverable. Over time she became covered in sand and it would be 170 years later until she was rediscovered in the late 1990s by an agent under the auspices of the Smithsonian Institution’s National Museum of American History.

In 2015, after years spent at the Smithsonian and the Peabody Essex Museum, the artifacts recovered from the boat were graciously donated to the Kauai Museum in Lihue by the Smithsonian. The museum staff spent many hours unpacking crates, building custom koa wood cases, and cataloging hundreds of items, which included a conch shell horn, coins, stone poi pounders, ship decorations, and ivory. The “Haaheo O Hawaii” exhibit will remain at the museum until August 15^th, 2018. For hours and more information, call (808) 245-6931, or click here.   

But of all the tales told about ghosts and supernatural events in Kauai, one of the most chilling and fascinating is that of the Hukai'po, or the Night Marchers. The legend of these armed warriors, who are reputed to be members of the original royal guards, is commonly shared across the island.

In ancient times, it was forbidden for commoners to gaze upon royalty, and the guards escorting the royal family would instantly kill anyone who did not prostrate themselves on the ground and avert their eyes. Legend has it that the Night Marchers appear only during certain times of the year, in specific locations, and most often at night. If you’re out walking late at night, you have a chance of encountering them. Their presence is often preceded by the sounds of conch horns, of chanting and marching, and by the smell of smoke from the torches that are still held high by each of the Hukai'po.

With some of the heaviest waves on Earth to its credit, the surfing is always copacetic in Kauai, but the ideal place on the island to ride a wave often varies with the season. Ocean shifts can be radical with the change of the seasons, and even by the hour! Tides and local winds have an effect on wave sizes, and there are consistently large and smaller waves that appeal to beginners and surfing virtuosos.

From May through October, Poipu Beach on the south side offers slow waves ideal for newbies. Kalapaki Beach at the Nawiliwili Harbor on the southeastern shoreline has shallow sandbar breaks for novices and bodyboarders, with the outside area popular with skilled riders. Kealia Beach on the east coast is another good spot for both bodyboarders and surfers, and the west side’s Pakala offers a long, left point break. These are only a few suggestions for surfers—any time during the year, Kauai is filled with prime surfing areas, and miles of beaches, all of them accessible to the public.

This family-friendly celebration of Tahitian culture is a colorful and entertaining event that features a variety of dance and drumming performers. During this community-sponsored event, the performers will show off their skills, talents, and cultural knowledge to a daily audience of thousands. Contestants from Japan, Hawaii, and the Mainland will compete solo and in groups, with ages ranging from toddlers to elders.

Opening ceremonies begin at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, August 5^th, and the competition will start immediately afterward with the youngest age groups performing first, followed by each older age group. Group competitions are scheduled for Sunday until the conclusion of the competition at 5:00 p.m. In addition to the dances and drumming, food, gifts, artwork, jewelry, woodwork, clothing, and other Tahitian and Pacific Island items will be offered by dozens of vendors. Coconut frond and lauhala weaving, lei making, and Polynesian carving will be demonstrated by authentic Polynesian artisans too.

Guests of Plantation Hale are cordially invited to celebrate with us at any or all of the holiday-related events listed below. Beginning at 6:00 p.m. on Monday, July 3^rd, America’s Most West Freedom Fest will kick off the evening with at the Pacific Missile Range Facility (PMRF) at Barking Sands, Kekaha. Food and craft vendors and a beer and wine garden will be on the scene, and there will be an art mural, games, bounce houses, and more. A stunning fireworks display will begin at 9:00 p.m. Also, Kapena will be headlining the 28th Annual Concert in the Sky, Kauai Hospice’s annual fundraiser, on Tuesday, July 4^th. Along with the live music, fun and games and food, and drink, guests will be treated to an amazing 3D Fireworks Show at Vidinha Soccer Field in Lihue.

The splendor of the island’s natural beauty make this an ideal getaway destination, and Dad can indulge his playful side, his love of adventure, and his competitive spirit with the many events and activities Kauai has to offer. Some of the best snorkeling, surfing, and swimming can be found here, just off the sparkling white sands of the island’s beautiful beaches.

The entire family will love hiking the scenic trails or bicycling along the coastal bike paths. Learn to hula at a real Hawaiian luau, or explore a colorful tropical garden. Tour a coffee plantation, or listen to the famous Spouting Horn. Or, just relax on your private lanai, or soak up some sun on the beach. Book a Kauai holiday today! 

The garden is a lush and unique area that has been chosen as the best natural botanical garden in the country, and the tour includes a history of the valley and its people, information about the original plants that their ancestors brought with them, and news about current conservation efforts. A self-guided tour will allow Mom to explore at her own pace, or the garden offers guided tours with a docent, guided tours for families, and special guided tours for a particular theme or area of interest. The family guided tour is reserved for those with at least one child aged 12 or under, as an education specialist is on hand to guide them through the lessons of an “outdoor classroom.”  Reservations are required for all tours, except for those that are self-guided. Reservations can be made via phone or email. Call us at (808) 826-1053, or email us at limahuli@ntbg.org.

Players can put together their own foursomes or be paired up for a modified scramble for play on immaculate course conditions with five oceanfront holes. The tournament runs from 7:00 a.m. until 2:00 p.m., and play begins at 8:00 a.m.

The cost is $125.00 per player, which covers greens fees, golf cart and club rental, continental breakfast and the awards luncheon. Awards will be given for Best Putt in Paddle, Closest to the Pin, Longest Drive, and Hole in One, along with purchased add-ons for Mulligans and a 50/50 Golf Ball Drop. Players will also be competing for the following prizes: Two Round Trip tickets anywhere flown by Alaska Airlines, excluding Cuba, and live auction items.

All “Golf in Paradise Tournament” proceeds will benefit Ohana Oasis, a local non-profit organization that provides retreats for bereaved parents after the death of a child. For more information, call (808) 855-5614.

This gem of the Hawaii Parks system also boasts breathtakingly beautiful views, with waterfalls, mango trees, and lush valleys along the way. The trail runs for 11-miles to Kalalau Beach, but most hikers camp overnight, or up to five nights, before returning. For newbies and the fitness-challenged, the first two miles of the trail makes an ideal day trip to Hanakapi'ai Beach and offer some spectacular scenery without the risks. Regardless of which option you choose, here are a few things you need to know before you hit the trail.

- Freshwater streams and falls abound along the trail, but purification is recommended.
- Due to dangerous currents and riptides, swimming at either beach or anywhere along the Na Pali Coast, is unsafe.
- The Hanakapi’ai, Hanakoa and Kalalau valleys provide composting toilets.
- Campers and day-hikers who continue on the trail beyond the Hanakapi’ai Valley must obtain a permit through the Hawaii Department of Land & Natural Resources (DLNR).
- Finally, check the (DLNR) for trail closures and emergency information here. 

Nothing is more romantic than a moonlight walk on the beach. Take along a basket filled with treats, and don’t forget to include a chilled bottle of champagne. Find a secluded spot and gaze at the moon, and each other, as you sit, sip, and fall in love all over again.

Indulge yourselves with a late breakfast on your private lanai. Forget about calories and carbs – have anything you want. Throw in some fresh fruit and a large pot of coffee, and enjoy it all at your leisure.

Tour the Princeville Botanical Gardens. This guided, hands-on tour through lush gardens filled with rare, exotic flowers and plants is a thrill for the senses and is highly recommended by many of the island’s visitors.

The island is ideally situated for watching the stars and it’s a great way to spend a romantic evening for two or combine family-fun time with an educational experience. The first star-watch of 2017 is scheduled for January 28th and begins at sunset at the softball field. Signs are posted for parking. Remember to turn off headlights when approaching, and park with your lights facing away from the ball field. You’ll need insect repellent and may want to bring some warm clothing for chilly evenings. Lawn chairs and blankets make great seating, and a small flashlight with a red lens cover (or make your own from red cellophane) comes in handy. For details and the full schedule, visit www.KEASA.org, or call 808-346-5796, or 808-332-STAR (7827).