This section is dedicated to take away all your "I wish someone had told me that before I went!" experiences. This way, you can spend less time settling in, and more time making new friends in your chosen hostel. We share our insider knowledge of tips, tricks and important things to look out for in Kauai.
Considered the oldest of all geologically formed Hawaiian Islands, Kauai is known as the fourth-largest island in Hawaii. Formerly named "Atooi" or "Atoui" by the explorer James Cook, it was later called Kaua’i after the standardization of the Hawaiian language. The name Kauai literally translates to "place around the neck," a traditional method of carrying a favorite child in many cultures throughout the world.
Today, Kauai is most notable for its being the home of the Reggae band Kolohe Kai, and for being the least developed, yet most verdant of all the Hawaiian Islands. Kauai is most notable for its seeming lack of advanced modernization in spite of the fact that it is also a prime tourist destination. Known by locals and tourists as the "Garden Island," it lives up to its reputation and is the epitome of a garden paradise.
If you’re looking for bar hopping, clubbing, and many other modern distractions in Kauai, you’ll have a hard time finding the right kind of thrills. But if you’re a nature lover who’s after a great vacation away from the hustle and bustle of the city, Kauai’s rich fields, laden plantations, and its untamed wilderness will definitely appeal to your adventurous soul. Among the best things to do in Kauai is to try and take the Kalalau Trail, a stretch of wilderness cut through with scenic ocean that is found on the Na Pali coastline, or to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the Waimea Canyon, or the island’s myriad geological formations.
Kauai is also a great beach vacation spot -- the majority of sandy spots here are excellent places to bring children. Kauai is also a great place to unwind and relax, as it boasts places like the Grove Farm Homestead Museum -- a piece of living history that, to this day, plants, harvests, and produces sugar in the traditional way.
If ever you find yourself hankering for a soothing escape into the edge of nowhere, you needn’t even worry that you’ll spend the whole of your vacation camping out, as there is an excellent selection of Kauai hostels, hotels, bed-and-breakfasts, and family-owned inns. Kauai is a relatively small place, so booking for rooms isn’t all that difficult, but its best to always plan ahead prior to arrivals to ensure you get great deals during your stay.
Written by local enthusiast for Kauai hostels
Angelica Burrage
