Just a few miles outside of your resort lies the quaint town of Hanalei. You can come hang ten during a surfing lesson or simply soak up the sun on one of the most breathtaking beaches in the world.

Hanalei Town is one of the better kept secrets of Hawai‘i, It isn’t overcrowded with the hustle and bustle of tourism. Locals enjoy the cuisine of various food trucks throughout the town; one of my favorites is Pat’s Taqueria. I can’t resist grabbing a delicious pork taco on my way to the beach for the afternoon.

From stunning beaches to quaint ice cream shops, let me help you uncover all of the hidden possibilities Hanalei Town has to offer.

Are you looking for a way to re-connect with yourself? Then Kaua‘i’s Hindu Monastery should be the next stop on your vacation to-do list. People have been making the pilgrimage to this site for over 40 years in a quest for peace and unity. Regardless of your religious preferences, all are welcome to tour the lush botanical gardens, join in the rituals of the pristine temples and marvel at elaborate statues.

We do ask that you uphold the level of respect that is associated with this religious landmark. Visitors are encouraged to wear traditional Hindu attire, or to dress modestly. Additionally, it frequently rains at this location, so we recommend bringing an umbrella and wearing shoes with good grip. Some areas of this 363-acre monastery close earlier in the day, so start your tour around 9 a.m. to get the full experience. Specific tours are only available on certain days, so let us begin planning your spiritual journey right away.

This beautifully scenic path traces Kaua‘i’s coastline for a lengthy 17 miles. Ke Ala Hele Makalae, Hawaiian for "The Path that Goes by the Coast," is an excellent way to see the Garden Isle via car, bike, running, or walking.

Following a former railroad line used to transport island sugarcane, the Ke Ala Hele Makalae route has access to area parks, beaches, and coastal communities. Discover Lydgate Park, home to two protected lagoons offering calm waters for ocean swimming and snorkeling. While there, enjoy picnic pavilions, tent campsites, and a playground.

Interpretive signs along the trail give information about local, cultural, historic and archeological sites, and much more. Exploring any segment, or the entire trail, is a relaxing and enjoyable way to get to know Kaua‘i.

MUST-SEE HIGHLIGHTS

• Local parks, beaches, and coastal communities
• Protected lagoons for swimming
• Breathtaking coastal views

Kīlauea Point National Wildlife Refuge, found on Kaua‘i’s northwest coast, is an unforgettably beautiful destination on the island and a must-see.

Established to preserve seabird colonies, the refuge is home to sweeping views and is one of the few locations to see the red-footed booby, Laysan albatross, and wedge-tailed shearwater in their natural habitat, as well as other island wildlife like the Hawaiian monk seal, green sea turtle, and humpback whale.

The refuge’s most iconic attraction, the Kīlauea Lighthouse (built in 1913), is perched on Land’s End, towering over the sheer ocean cliffs and grassy slopes of a dormant volcano, offering breathtaking views and photo opportunities not to be missed.

MUST-SEE HIGHLIGHTS

• Kīlauea Lighthouse
• Land’s End
• Protected birds and local wildlife