Many arrive in the islands with plans for a few days on one island and a few on the other, forsaking others due to time constraints. However, including a day trip to one of the islands is an option that many overlook. Day trips work especially well for those on extended vacations on one island.
A great day trip is to Kauai. The beautiful island or as the Hawaiians say: “Nani Kauai,” is filled with beauty, beaches and more. Inter-island flights begin as early as 5:30 a.m. and continue from Honolulu 60-90 minutes throughout the day until about 8 o’clock in the evening.
Book flights and a car rental in advance. Doing so will allow for the best prices and time selections. Departures from Honolulu are best at about 8 in the morning and return around 6 in the evening. Check-in online and with just carry-on luggage for the day, the security lines will be a breeze. Use the online check-in option for car rentals to minimize the time at the car rental lot. Flight time to and from Kauai is about 30 minutes.
Helicopter Trips
Very expensive, very exhilarating, amazingly memorable. Book a flight for about 45 minutes after arrival on Kauai and the trek from the airport to the better tours will take no more than 10 minutes. Opt for the shortest helicopter flight possible since there is so much to enjoy on the ground as well. Booking this in advance is a must.
Wailua River/Fern Grotto
Very inexpensive, very unique This trip is a casual laid back journey along the Waialua river. The boasts coast along the waterways while the crew offers songs and history of the area. Well worth the few dollars and frequent departures mean easy access and lots of fun.
Hanalei Valley
Very quaint. Perfect for lunch. Heading across the Hanalei bridge signals that you have arrived in one of the more unique towns in the islands. The small farming community still produces some of the best poi in the islands. For others there is a handful of unique restaurants that make Hanalei a great stop for lunch.
For those who want to take a lunchtime dip, the beach is just a couple of blocks away. For those who want to venture further, there are several one lane bridges and quiet beaches along the road.
Kilauea Lighthouse
Very beautiful. Good for a quick stop at the first parking lot. The lighthouse marks the northernmost point in the Hawaiian Islands, and the lighthouse, now automated is the site of a wildlife sanctuary. The panorama from the cliffs above the ocean is unforgettable.
Opaekaa Falls
Beauty in an unexpected location. On the way back to the Lihue airport, a stop in Wailua to view this waterfall is a treat. This is one of Kauai’s several “drive-up” waterfalls. No need to hike, get muddy or even get out of your car. It’s a photo opportunity that should not be missed.
Wailua Falls
Another one of Kauai’s beautiful waterfalls. Not far from Lihue airport set in the midst of open pasture land is this enormous waterfall. Park in the adjacent lot and enjoy the sound of rushing water and the view from the lookout point.
Once back at the airport, return the rental car and head for your gate. Although Kauai’s beauty is boundless, these highlights are well worth the time and money.
Kauai is a great choice for a day trip. The compact, circular island has just one main road that runs the perimeter of the island that makes for effortless navigating and lots of scenic enjoyment. Those who need additional assistance to get around may want to download a iPhone travel app or and Android travel app for extra assurance.
It’s a busy day, but one that will be filled with memories and scenic vistas. Your heart will be singing “Nani Kauai” for eyars to come.
Lottie Tagupa is a native Hawaiian, born and raised on the island of Oahu. She has been writing about Hawaii for over 10 years and currently lives in Waimea on the Big Island.
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