Free Things to Do in Kauai

Arguably one of Kauai's most popular natural sites, this geyser-like attraction delights visitors with its spectacle and energy. Incoming surf rushes into an ancient lava tube and is forced upward and outward in a dramatic display of sea water. At times, the geyser can reach heights of fifty feet. A peculiarity of the formation is that the water also creates a low, moaning sound, leading ancient islanders to speculate that a giant lizard was trapped below ground, calling out to escape. At times, local folks hawk their wares in the area, creating a tented village of jewelry, souvenirs and sundries.

A lovely hike with great views, the Kuilau Ridge Trail is pretty gentle at first but is at a consistent incline, which can be a bit tiring. About half an hour up the trail you'll come to a picnic area and this is a great place to enjoy a lunch. This spot also has wonderful views down into a valley and if it's a clear day you'll be treated to a great view of Mount Wai`ale`ale. Keep going past the picnic area for a few minutes and you'll be rewarded with a nature stroll like no oter, with amazing views, lush foliage, and coastal views. Turn around a the wooden bridge and head back. The whole hike should take about three hours. It starts about 1 3/4 mile past the Kaua`i Research and Extension Center. Head up Kuamo`o Road and you'll see the trail head marker on the right side.

This amazing, yawning chasm seems almost incongruous on a tiny, tropical island, but the "Grand Canyon of the Pacific" harbors a wealth of scenery, lush vegetation, and native fauna. Its multi-hued brilliance attracts thousands of visitors, who appreciate the canyon's beauty from scenic overlooks or hike into its depths for firsthand views. Roughly 10 miles by 2 miles, Waimea extends down 3600 feet, carved by river waters and provoked by an ancient earthquake. State parks set around the formation provide recreational opportunities and information about local nature and geology. Hiking trails weave through the canyon and camp sites can be found deep into it for avid outdoors people.

Hanapepe is a true art town. The small historic town, which surprisingly once served as the most bustling town on the Garden Island, is filled mostly with art galleries selling locally made art and locally crafted jewelry and housewares. Each and every Friday from 6 to 9 p.m. the west side town opens its doors to invite the public - both visitors and locals alike - to enjoy a night of socializing and entertainment in the name of art and creativity. Music can usually be found somewhere along the strip of art shops, as well as appetizers, chatting with new friends, and buying and window shopping of art. Dress up or go casual, either way art night is not to be missed while visiting Kaua`i.

Just beyond Princeville, a highway overlook affords travelers a view of the Hanalei Valley's incredible beauty, which spreads out in a lush panorama of color, texture, and dimension. Set against rugged mountains are the shimmering strands of river and waterfalls, and taro fields push out across the valley in a study of the possibilities of green. Although the location begs for photographic documentation, the scope of the image is undoubtedly one you won't soon forget. Here you can read plaques that share the history of the valley and about the area's varied wildlife, some of which are endangered. After a photo opportunity up here you can head down the hill to experience it up close.

A truly gorgeous beach, Ha`ena Beach park is near the end of the road on the North Shore. The park offers full amenities - bathrooms, cold showers, a lifeguard, grassy lawn, picnic tables, and often a lunch wagon or two. This beach is quite picturesque, which tall green cliffs backing it, two surf spots called Cannons and Tunnels (for expert surfers only), and sometimes a little freshwater river when there's been rain. During the winter months the ocean here is often not swimmable, but during the summer it's an exquisite place to swim and lay in the sun. Even if the waves are too big for swimming here the beach is still very worth visiting. Slightly east past the lifeguard stand is some of the best snorkeling on the island at the part of the beach known as Tunnels. This is also a great place for tent camping.

Many visitors recognize these twin falls as the ones pictured in the opening sequence of the "Fantasy Island" TV show. Their dramatic, 80-foot double tumble is the subject of many tourist photographs, a distinct difference from the days when Hawaiian royalty dove from the cliffs as a sign of power and prowess. Although the falls' beauty waxes and wanes depending on rainfall, they're always a worthy site. Some folks choose to hike down to the basin, but the journey, which is steep and somewhat treacherous, is perhaps best reserved for adrenalin junkies. The thunder of the falls is a relaxing sound and whether you hike down to the pool or watch from above it's a wonderful excursion.

Just north of Waimea Canyon, inland from the Na Pali Coast, lies this rugged state park, spread across 4345 mountainous acres. Especially popular with nature lovers, the park offers terrific scenery and plenty of outdoor activities, from hiking to pig hunting to trout fishing (with pre-arranged licenses). Temperatures at this elevation are a bit cooler than elsewhere on the island, so you'll want to dress accordingly. Plus, nature trails crisscross the landscape, and camping is available. The park also features a lodge, museum, and visitors center where you can check park conditions before venturing onwards. Spectacular vistas and hiking trails make this trip a not miss.

Lydgate Beach Park truly has everything you could need for a day at the beach - two protected natural swimming pools, spectacular snorkeling, white sand, amenities, lifeguard, and an amazing playground for children. This is where snorkel lovers will have the time of their lives. The underwater worlds in nearly always pulsing with life, and offers views of colorful tropical fish. The calm pools are perfect for children or anyone else who would prefer to not get knocked around by waves. Lydgate is a great place for a full day at the beach or a quick snorkel stop. It's also centrally located on the east side so it doesn't require driving far out of your way.