Pick Three

For groups visiting Kauai, there are three distinct areas that should not be missed: the Na Pali Coast, Waimea Canyon and the hidden waterfalls found on Kipu Ranch. One way to achieve viewing all three locations at once is via helicopter. To experience each location firsthand though, I recommend seeing the Na Pali Coast by zodiac raft, Waimea Canyon by bicycle and the waterfalls at Kipu by soaring through the canopy on ziplines.

• Na Pali Coast: Multiple companies operate zodiac experiences along the Na Pali Coast. What makes the raft trip unique is the ability to travel close to the shoreline, providing amazing views normally unseen, maneuver inside the naturally carved sea caves, and even land at a beach only accessible by raft. Beverages, assorted snacks and lunch are provided, as well as snorkel gear and instruction.
  
• Waimea Canyon: Otherwise known as the Grand Canyon of the Pacific, Waimea Canyon is a natural wonder that should not be missed. Although there are hiking and four-wheel drive van excursions, I prefer the downhill bicycle option because it provides guests with the opportunity to witness the entire canyon from many points of interest while getting a bit of exercise. Outfitters Kauai offers the tour, and seasoned and professional guides provide detailed historical facts of the area during the drive to the summit of the canyon. At the main lookout area, guests are fitted with a bicycle and given a safety briefing, then they line up to start coasting toward the sea. Several stops are made along the way before finishing at the base. It’s a total of 12 miles of coasting one of the most beautiful canyons in the world.
  
  
• Kipu Falls: The last tour I highly recommend, at Kipu Falls, is also operated by Outfitters Kauai. The tour features ziplining, crossing suspension bridges and repelling before the short hike to the 30-foot rope swing, cliff jumping and swimming beneath the waterfall. The Kipu Falls Zipline Trek includes roundtrip transportation, all necessary safety gear and instruction, and a wonderful lunch served within a tree house.