Blanketed in tropical rainforests that border dramatic waterfalls or jagged cliffs, Kauai is nicknamed Garden Island for its emerald-hued mountains and lush valleys. Its scenery seems cinematic, unreal, so much so that it even played the part of paradise in big-budget blockbusters like Jurassic Park and Avatar. Let Kauai audition for a new role: the starring spot in your next exotic island escape.
Visit Kauai: get started
The tropical town of Lihue is your gateway to the natural wonders of Kauai, the oldest of the Hawaiian Islands. Surf and swim off Kalapaki Beach, snorkel around Poipu Beach and marvel at Wailua Falls. Outdoor lovers, discover the Napali Coast for some of the best hiking in Hawaii. Kick-start your Kauai vacation and book one of our Kauai resorts, packages or condo rentals!
Kauai travel guide
Destination facts
Language
English and Hawaiian
What to bring back
A shell lei necklace, arts and crafts from Hanapepe, wood-carved items made of koa (a native Hawaiian tree), the island’s “red dirt shirts” (specially dyed with Kauai’s volcanic red soil) and a bottle of Koloa Kauai Coffee rum.
What to eat
Saimin (a mix of Japanese and Chinese-style noodle soup), a Puka dog (a hot dog in Hawaiian sweet bread, topped with a spicy sauce and tropical fruit relish) and shave ice, Hawaii’s colourful dessert.
Fun fact
Kauai is the oldest Hawaiian island—it was formed over 5 million years ago when a volcano erupted. While Polynesians were the first to inhabit Kauai, legend has it they weren’t always alone. Mythical little people named the Menehune (kind of like Hawaiian leprechauns) hid among the trees and created landmarks, including the ancient Alekoko Fishpond near Lihue.
Important info
For more information on all necessary travel documents, visa, taxes and more, check Air Canada’s Travel Requirements page and the Government of Canada’s Travel and Tourism website.
