The Garden Isle of Kauai

by Arie Boris, CruiseGourmet.com Magazine

You do not need to travel half way around the world to find the perfect romantic getaway. Hawaii is the perfect place!  Aside from its awesome natural beauty, you also get to enjoy the comfort of staying on US territory and not worry about getting lost in foreign translation while you are there.

For couples who want to experience lush foliage, picturesque mountain scenery and stunning beaches, the island of Kauai is a perfect choice when planning to spend your honeymoon in Hawaii. I recommend you combine a few days here before sailing on an American Safari Hawaii cruise.  Small and intimate with no more than 36 guests, the Safari Explorer sails to quiet beaches away from major commercial tourist areas.  http://www.innerseadiscoveries.com/hawaiian-seascapes

Although Kauai has plenty of beaches to offer, the romantic vibe of Kauai lies outside its sun-kissed coastlines. Go for a drive around the island and get acquainted with charming traditional villages, magnificent waterfalls, gorgeous waterways and breathtaking natural vistas.

Start at the east shore and drive past the residential area of Wailua until you find yourself facing the mighty Wailua River. Go on up Kuamoo Road where you will be treated to the picturesque view of Opaekaa Falls cascading noisily down to the river below. You can then take the winding road nearby and visit the traditional Kamokila Hawaiian Village where you will find plenty to learn about the cultural heritage of the Kauai’s warm and hospitable natives.

If you love to go frolic amidst verdant surroundings, go on up Kuamoo Road and follow the marked trails to the peak of the Sleeping Giant. It is an easy enough hike but the spectacular panorama waiting on top will surely make it one of your favorites. The Keahua Forestry Arboretum at the end of the Kuamoo is also a romantic place to visit where you can just enjoy each others company in natural breath taking surroundings, go swimming or take short hikes while you are there. Of course, the Wailua River is also a wonderful place for adventure where newly weds can enjoy the romantic environment on a kayak or go for a more exciting ride along the rapids on a raft.

Proceed to Kauai’s north shore where dramatic ocean panorama and mountain vistas will welcome you. The Napali Coast is the ultimate destination on Kauai and is where white sand beaches, azure waters and sunny days are yours to enjoy. Also, make sure to visit Kilauea where a gorgeous lighthouse can be explored. The area speaks of romance and makes for a perfect setting for two people in love. There is also the nearby Kilauea Point National Wildlife Refuge for avid bird and wildlife watchers.

The grassy park area of Anini Beach makes for a great picnic stop. If you feel like getting back to where the action is, stop by Princeville where resort facilities, luxury hotels, exciting nightlife and upscale restaurants can be found. From the cosmopolitan atmosphere of Princeville, you can then visit the iconic Kauai panorama of Hanalei. This vast field of greens, the majestic mountains at the background with waterfalls cascading down and the pristine Hanalei Bay makes for a fun, picturesque and very romantic day trip destination.

For snorkeling enthusiasts, take advantage of the so-called tunnels at Ha’ena Beach Park and its amazing underwater wonderland. Ke’e Beach is also a fantastic snorkeling site but what makes it even more special is the spectacular sunset that fills its sky with dramatic colors when the sun kisses the horizon farewell for the day.

Finally, to cap off your Kauai romantic getaway, drive south and discover the breathtaking Waimea Canyon (often called the Grand Canyon of the Pacific). The lookout points from Koke-e State Park are the perfect sites to view this dramatic geological phenomenon. Also, not to be missed is the nearby Kalalau Valley whose lush vegetation, oh’a trees and brightly colored flowers viewed from a vantage point above, make for an unforgettable Kauai experience.

Kauai deserves some time to explore!  A week on the island followed by a week on the Safari Explorer would be the Cruise Gourmet’s ideal Hawaiian getaway!  http://www.gohawaii.com/kauai