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Top 10 Attractions
Na Pali & Coast
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The outstanding beauty of the Na Pali coast along Kauai's inaccessible north west shore makes this region our number one scenic attraction in Hawaii.
Changing in appearance each hour of the day from the blue hues of early morning to the rich textures of sunset, the rugged cliffs and their tropical rainforested valleys give a unique aspect viewed each from land, sea and air. The only way in by land is on foot. Hiking the 11-mile Kalalau trail is one of the most exhilarating journeys on earth, crossing numerous streams, looping up and down lush valleys and into secluded white sandy beaches, walking along coastal cliffs and past ancient hawaiian plantations and tumbling waterfalls. The beauty of the trail is not only its scenery but its solitude and inaccessibility. Camping permits can be obtained from the State Parks Division and water purification is necessary. For those without time or inclination for an overnight hike, both ends of the trail can be hiked independently for however long takes your fancy. Hiking from the north-east at Kee Beach, the trail starts at sea level and climbs over a valley offering splendid coastal views of successive valleys beyond - it's an hour hike to the beautiful Hanakapiai Beach. For a very different aspect of the Na Pali Coast by foot, start high up in the valley at Kalalau Lookout in the north-west. Here are spectacular views along the mountain ridges looking down into the valleys and the coast.
The most dramatic views of the Na Pali coast are seen from the sea with the 4000 feet sheer cliffs falling into the sea and the rugged coastline in full view. Sea caves and marine life are added attractions (dolphins, turtles and monk seals are common year round with whale sightings common from January to April).
An aerial tour of Na Pali brings out a brief but lasting wow factor and is usually dramatised with inspiring music. About 10 companies offer Kauai helicopter tours. Prices range from US$60 per person to US$200. The number of people (window seat not always guaranteed), the viewing capability (some have large all around windows, some smaller windows), and the duration of flight should be considered when booking a tour. Other great aerial sites in Kauai include nearby Mt. Waialele and Waimea Canyon making a Kauai helicopter tour the most popular way to see this outstanding region.
Our top 10 scenic attractions in Hawaii are:
1) Na Pali Coast - KAUAI
dramatic coastline; hiking; scenic beaches
2) Volcano National Park - BIG ISLAND
lava flows; volcanic crater; trails; flora - 1 day minimum
3) Waikiki Beach - OAHU
world famous activity beach and shopping
4) Whale Watching - MAUI
Nov-May; calving late Jan-Mar; excellent viewing from coast
5) Archaeological Sites - BIG ISLAND,
stone foundations; temples; petroglyphs; Captain Cook memorial
6) Historical Lahaina Town - MAUI
charming seaside town; art galleries; restaurants
7) Pearl Harbor - OAHU
historical world war two site and USS Arizona War Memorial
8) Waimea Canyon - KAUI
unusual rock formations, large canyons and walking tracks
9) Waipio Valley - BIG ISLAND
hidden valley of yester-year with taro fields and horse drawn carts
10) Oahu Scenic Coastal Drive - OAHU
blowholes, snorkelling and scenic beaches
Readers may also be interested in the following destinations:
Fiji Tours - Top 10 Attractions
Cook Islands Tours - Top 10 Attractions
Samoa Tours - Top 10 Attractions
Tonga Tours - Top 10 Attractions
Tahiti Tours - Top 10 Attractions
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