I stayed at the Grand Hyatt in Kauai. Needless to say, it was one of the best resorts I have ever stayed in. The lobby opens up to a large garden where parrots fly in and out throughout the day. There is a terrace where you can eat breakfast, have your coffee, watch the sunrise and see humpback whales breaching.
If you are looking for an active and relaxing trip, Kauai is THE island! It is known for its hikes. On the north part of the island the waves are very large and a lot of professional surfers will be here enjoying the waves. Best part of the island to stay in though is the south, it gets the most sunshine. Be aware though, the first year I visited Kauai in February it was sunny and beautiful everyday. The second year I visited in February, it rained everyday but one. This didn't bother me, as I was still able to hike everyday. It wouldn't have been very enjoyable if your idea was to get a good tan. This is not a party island, at least from what I could see. You would be better off going to the Big Island for that. Even though Maui is known for being the romantic island, I found Kauai to be very romantic. Which was perfect...as I was with my father (sarcasm).
Nothing like a little adventure in the mountains of Kauai.
This is a **MUST DO** So much fun!! They show you all over Kauai! Amazing to hear how many movies have been filmed here! To the right of the ATV is where scenes from Jurassic Park 1 was filmed.
On the trip our tour guide took us to the exact spot where Harrison Ford in Indiana Jones jumps onto the vine (the rope I'm holding onto) and jumps into the water.
Did anyone else know that coffee beans came out of what looks like a grape!?!?!
Welcome, this is Never Never Land. Also the beach where the little girl gets killed by dinosaurs in the beginning of Jurassic Park 2. This is also the beach where Harrison Ford swims to in 6 days 7 nights.
The beach pool at the Grand Hyatt. My favorite spot to have my pina coladas.
Nothing like a Hawaiian sunset.
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Stunning waterfalls all over the island.
Recognize this waterfall? This is from the scene at the beginning of Jurassic Park when they are just getting to the island and they are in the helicopter. The only way to see this waterfall is by helicopter. I recommend Blue Hawaiian. They are a bit more pricey, but they come with voice back headsets so you can ask the pilot questions. The seats are larger and more comfortable than other companies.
Snowman? No no, meet Sandman! Built by yours truly.
Every meal we had in Kauai was delicious. Although, I have to admit, I was very excited to have sushi in Hawaii, and at least at the Grand Hyatt, the sushi wasn't anything special (I had better sushi in North Carolina).
Kalalau Trail
If you are going to go on one hike in Kauai, this is it. It took us about 2 hours round trip and that's with us stopping ever few seconds for photos. It is rated the top 10 most dangerous hikes. I agree, you can fall or be pushed at any moment off the side of the cliffs. But as long as you can walk, and you have a loyal hiking buddy-you should be safe.
This hike had waterfall after waterfall, by far the most breathtaking views I've ever had during a hike!
That is not the kind of sign you want to see right before crossing the river.
But I made it to the other side like a champ!
The last day we went on a boat and watched the humpback whales. These whales are 40-50 feet long, and weight up to 48 tons. They live and travel together in pods up to 20,000 whales. In the winter months they migrate which is why winter months December-March are the best time to whale watch in Hawaii!
Things you should do in Kauai:
ATV
Hike, Kalalau Trail is an absolute must, #1 highlight of trip
Helicopter, recommend Blue Hawaiian
Zip line, I didn't do this, but everyone raves about it.
Whale Watch, take the smaller boats (you get closer to the whales)
Snorkeling (recommend hiring a boat and going to an area off the island)
Jump off cliff at Poipu (this is where they jump off the cliff in the movie, 6 days 7 nights)
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