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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.

A parade, a rodeo, food, music, dancing and more all await you at the annual ten-day celebration that is Kauai’s 34^th annual Koloa Plantation Days. 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.

This year, give Dad a Father’s Day gift he’ll always remember by surprising him with a fabulous getaway to the lovely island of Kauai. 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!

With its spectacular scenic beauty, friendly islanders, and an abundant array of activities, Kauai is the perfect honeymoon destination. 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.

An ideal place for any getaway, the lovely island of Kauai offers a multitude of activities and attractions for our guests, and some of our favorite things to see and do are listed here. 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.

Breathtaking natural scenery, fun, and unique events and attractions, and warm and friendly locals are only a few of the reasons the picturesque and appealing town of Kapaa was rated number one by TripAdvisor’s 2018 Traveler’s Choice as “Top Destinations on the Rise.” 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.

This February, indulge your valentine with chocolate, theater, a town celebration, and more, as the island of Kauai plays host to a variety of fun, interesting and entertaining events. 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.

This month, the beautiful island of Kauai offers our visitors and guests an amazing array of fabulously fun activities, and here are three of our favorites for your consideration. 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.

Mele Kalikimaka to all - who needs a white Christmas when you can enjoy a bright and sunny holiday season at Plantation Hale? 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!

Join us at the town center and Kapaa Beach Park on November 3 in honoring the coconut, our most precious fruit. 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!

From a celebration of Queen Emma, to coffee and chocolate, to a walking and storytelling tour, Kauai has some wonderfully entertaining events for our guests this month. 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.

Exciting hula competitions, a Kauai composers' contest, concerts, and native demonstrations are only a few of the activities you’ll find at the Kauai Mokihana Festival on September 23-29. 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.

Musical artists, talent competitions, amusement park rides, a karaoke contest, a selfie contest, and so much more will be on hand at the 2018 Kauai County Farm Bureau Fair at Vidinha Stadium on August 16-19. 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 chords 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!

Kauai always offers something special for its visitors, and this month is no exception. First, join us for the 22^nd Annual Concert in the Sky. 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 Stickhorse/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.

With its abundance of natural beauty, fascinating attractions, friendly locals, and award-winning beaches, the island of Kauai is a traveler’s paradise. 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.

Join us on May 12 at the Vidinha Soccer Field and help support 60 non-profit organizations in Kauai. 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.   

Colorful and luscious mangoes, lychees, Passion Fruit, Breadfruit (Ulu), Dragon Fruit, Star Fruit, Papayas, and Sugar Loaf Pineapples - such a bounty of lush tropical produce awaits you at the Sunday Farmers Market every week. 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.  

Rated number one by TripAdvisor’s 2018 Traveler’s Choice as “Top Destinations on the Rise,” the beautiful town of Kapaa is located right at the base of Sleeping Giant Mountain on Kauai. 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! 

Most couples who have participated in a vow renewal ceremony agree that it was not only a moving and romantic experience, but that the ceremony had a powerful revitalizing effect on their marriage. No matter if you’re marriage is entering its second year or its 50^th, 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 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 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!

Kauai is famous for its dazzling beaches, hiking trails, lovely historic attractions, surfing and other water sports. 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 and welcome 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, Kauai Museum in Lihu‘e offers free admission, classes, and rotating exhibits each month. For details, call (808) 245–6931.

This December, trade your white Christmas for a bright and sunny holiday at Plantation Hale. Before you know it, you’ll be singing “Mele Kalikimaka” while experiencing the island’s holiday charm. 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 6pm to 8pm. 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 3pm to 9pm, 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.

In 1824, a royal yacht belonging to King Kamehameha II ran aground off the north shore of Kauai. Named “Haaheo o Hawaii” (“Pride of Hawaii”), it was originally built in Salem, Massachusetts, and named “Cleopatra’s Barge.” 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 cataloguing 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.   

Native islanders love a good ghost story, and the retelling of spooky tales has been used through the ages to provide entertainment, share history, and shape culture. 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 is 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.

Long before Kauai was named as one of “The 65 Best Surf Spots in the World” by Men’s Journal, the island was a popular destination for both seasoned and novice surfers. 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.

Join us at Kapaa Beach Park on August 5^th and 6^th for the 16^th annual Heiva I Kauai, an international Tahitian dance competition. 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.

This Independence Day, the air will be filled with the smell of hot dogs and hamburgers sizzling on grills, blaring horns and crashing cymbals will accompany bands marching to the sounds of Sousa, and a dazzling array of fireworks will illuminate night skies nationwide as we come together to celebrate our most American holiday. 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.

This year, forget the ties, the after-shave, and the campy boxers, and give Dad something he really wants – a genuine Hawaiian vacation on the lovely island of Kauai. 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 - for information on reservations and special getaway packages, call (877) 314-1298, or visit: http://www.plantation-hale.com.

This year, make it a very special day for Mom with a tour of Limahuli Garden. 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 specialty 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.

Join us at the award-winning Princeville Makai Golf Course on Friday, April 7^th for the “Golf in Paradise Tournament.” 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.

Featured in TimeOut Magazine's "The Best Hiking Trails in America," Kauai’s own Kalalau Trail is one of the most challenging hikes in the U.S. 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 make 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.

• Fresh water 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 at: http://dlnr.hawaii.gov/dsp/hiking/kauai/kalalau-trail/.

While it’s true that spending Valentine’s Day on the beautiful island of Kauai is one of the most romantic ways to celebrate the day, here are three ideas to make your Valentine’s Day even more special.

• Nothing is more romantic than a moonlight walk on the beach. Take along a basket filled with treats, and don’t forget to include an 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.

For more information on Plantation Hale’s specials, and on activities and events in Kauai, call us toll-free at (877) 314-1298 or visit: www.plantation-hale.com/kauai-hawaii/.

Calling all amateur astronomers and novice stargazers! January is a terrific time to join the monthly starwatch program sponsored by the Kauai Educational Association for Science & Astronomy (K.E.A.S.A.). 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).