Parks, Gardens & Cemeteries

Paddle the river through the rain forest, snorkel a hidden beach, or hike the path of the Hulei'a River. This Hawaiian-owned eco-tour company allows guests to participate in any of the above activities. The ultimate tour is the Helicopter-Kayak Adventure Tour; it combines all activities, starting with a helicopter ride above Na Pali and Waimea Canyon. While some tours are not appropriate for youngsters or persons with disabilities, some tours are appropriate for ages three on up to 80-something. Call for daily schedule and prices.

Developed by dynamic landscaping duo Robert and John Allerton, this 100-acre wonderland features a design that is similar to what one might find in a big-city garden, perhaps in London or France. Imposing statues, white marble buildings and cobblestone walks add an artistic touch to the garden's natural beauty. The Hawaiian name is Lawai-kai. It is on the south shore next to the McBryde Gardens, which are also managed by NTBS.

If you travel to the end of Highway 56, you will reach this state park. The park is best known for its three sea caves, Kee Beach (a lovely swimming and snorkeling spot), and for its hiking trails. The trails here are not extremely rugged; a four-mile hike takes just a few hours. Explore the caves, which (as legend has it) were created by the goddess Pele. Two of the caves, now filled with seawater, were once gathering spots for island chiefs.

A visit here fills sightseeing requirements and leaves plenty of time to relax. The pier is located in busy Black Pot Beach Park, and is nearly a century old. Agricultural exporters originally docked their vessels here, but it ceased being of any commercial importance years ago. Now it is a landmark and a hangout spot. Kids gleefully jump off the edge of the pier (a short fall, but good for a splash) while adults sunbathe, fish or talk story; pidgin for "shooting the breeze."

A favorite of hikers, lovebirds and picnicking parties, this place is one of the loveliest gardens on the island nicknamed "The Garden Isle." The 30-acre property is a veritable fairyland covered in lush foliage and sprinkled with swimming holes and grassy knolls. Mango and monkeypod trees are just a few of the many exotic plant species that flourish here. One easy hiking trail is in the arboretum, and a more difficult four-mile trail is just outside it.

A number of seabirds, including shearwaters, red-footed boobies and albatross can be seen at this reserve. Indigenous plant life also thrives. While experts will probably come prepared, regular tourists will appreciate the on-loan binoculars and the refuge's volunteer staff. Sometimes whales or other inhabitants of the sea can be glimpsed in the waters below Lighthouse Point. Do not forget to stop by the old lighthouse (an attraction in its own right) before leaving.

Some people might consider it romantic, while others would say it is a novelty. Either way, the horse-and-carriage tour of the historic Kilohana Plantation is an interesting way to spend an hour. Informative coachmen/guides regale the passengers with anecdotes and tidbits of information about Kauai's sugary past. Passengers stop to view the harvesters in action and nibble stalks of fresh cane. There is a one-hour tour and a 20-minute tour. Reservations are suggested.

A favorite place for hikers, campers and picnickers, this park is located on the western shore of Kauai. The centerpiece is Waimea Canyon. One of the best ways to see the canyon is to hike the easy Iliau Nature Loop, located between Mile Marker 8 and 9. A half-dozen other trails are available. Some of them are easy and some are arduous. The Koke'e Natural History Museum, located inside the park, is a great place to learn about the surroundings, research the trails or pick up a map.

While it is hard to say whether one of Kauais gardens outshines the others, this preserve was named the United States' "best natural botanical garden" in 1997. Located on the North Shore, the property serves as a tourist attraction, botanical research facility and outdoor classroom. Only 17 acres of the garden are open to the public. Guided or self-guided tours are available. Guided tours cost USD15 per person; self-guided tours cost USD10. Reserve your spot in advance for the guided tour. Check in at the gift shop.

Looking for the perfect family beach park? Lydgate is probably exactly what you have in mind. Located on the Coconut Coast, this state park offers miles of sandy beach, a 6,000-foot playground, fabulous snorkeling, swimming and facilities. A rock-lined pool offers safe swimming conditions, even for small children. A more active swimming area can be found just on the other side of the rock border. This area features some of the island's best snorkeling, and is one of Kauai's most popular day-trip destinations. Closes everyday at sunset.

Home to hundreds of native plant species, as well as exotic plants from around the world, this is a must-see for all green thumbs and nature lovers. The property is adjacent to Allerton Gardens, and guided tours include a visit to the neighbor garden as well as Queen Emma's Cottage. This garden is also the headquarters of the National Tropical Botanical Gardens. It houses an extensive research library and an enormous herbarium. Guided tours, which are offered Monday at 9:30a by reservation only, last approximately two-and-one-half hours.

The National Tropical Botanical Garden aims to "enrich life through discovery, scientific research, conservation, and education by perpetuating the survival of plants, ecosystems, and cultural knowledge of tropical regions." Based in the tropical paradise of Kauai, the NTBG is currently trying to increase awareness of the dire situation of many rare tropical plants that could have many uses (including medicine, food, and even shelter). It also distinguishes itself as a "botanical ark," preserving various endangered plants in hopes of preserving them and perhaps reintroducing them to their natural habitats in the future.

Any groups that include young children, mediocre swimmers or beginning boogie boarders might want to make the trip out to this beach. It is known for its excellent snorkeling and small waves. While at the beach, first-time visitors may want to take the walk over to the sea salt ponds where locals set out pans to collect the salt used for cooking. A slow and tedious practice, it is nonetheless a Hawaiian tradition, not to mention a longtime cottage industry.