Na Pali and Waimea self-guided driving tour in Kauai

Explore Kauai and discover why it's called "the Garden Isle." This stunningly lush island is covered in tropical rainforest, bursting at the seams with life of all kinds. This drive will take you along the most famous stretch of Kauai's historic highway and show you all the very best sights the island has to offer.

Visit Grove Farm, where you'll glimpse what remains of the once-booming sugar plantation industry, then turn back the clock to the time of ultra-rich sugar barons. Hear about this enormous industry, how it's connected to the American Civil War, and what life was like for the lavishly wealthy owners.

Then, treat yourself to the fabulous Poipu Beach, where sand and surf meet in perfect harmony and you can always see some surfers hitting the waves. And be sure to keep your eyes open! If you're lucky, you might just spot Rocky, a Hawaiian monk seal who's something of a celebrity on Kauai.

Don't miss the Hanapepe Swinging Bridge! This precarious bridge spans a jaw-dropping valley and offers views and an experience like nowhere else on Earth.

Along the way, you will be filled in on the fascinating, complex history of Kauai and Hawaii as a whole. Hear about how the first people journeyed across miles of ocean on tiny canoes to get here, learn about their kings and traditions, and get a close-up look at how the arrival of American businesses changed the islands forever. Be prepared for the unexpected… like an attempted Russian invasion which took place in the 19th century!

And, of course, visit the so-called Grand Canyon of the Pacific, Waimea Canyon. This 3,000 foot deep canyon is as lush and green as the rest of the island, and is guaranteed to take your breath away. Don’t forget to snap plenty of photos to make your friends jealous!

Along the way, you will be pointed out all Kauai’s best hiking spots, from easy walking routes to more advanced trails which lead to awe-inspiring overlooks.

Finally, you'll arrive at the Nā Pali Coast State Wilderness Park, a perfectly secluded slice of jungle, cliffs, and crashing ocean that has all you could want from Kauai packed into one place!