Kauai, also known as the Garden Isle, is the smallest and oldest of the Hawaiian Islands. It’s where picturesque movies like Jurassic Park, South Pacific, and Disney’s Pirates of the Caribbean were filmed, as well as TV show favorites like Lost. The slow, sleepy, island vibe quickly gets you into an aloha mood, and grabbing some shrimp at a road-side food truck will leave you wondering why you hadn’t visited sooner.

More than just dramatic beauty, the island is home to a variety of outdoor activities. Kayak the Wailua River, snorkel on Poipu Beach, hike the trails of Kokee State Park, or go ziplining and soar high above the valleys. Kauai's beaches are all jaw-droppingly beautiful, but each offer visitors different activities for the daring or the more relaxed travelers. The north shore beaches are perfect for beginning snorkelers and windsurfers. The east side beaches are popular for children to play as there are family-friendly picnic grounds and typically calming wave conditions. The south shore beaches, with Poipu Beach Park as the most popular, are perfect for all families looking to spend the entire day swimming or relaxing under one of the pavilions. Lastly, the west side beaches are a favorite local surf and fishing spot.