Kauai is farther north and west than the other Hawaiian Islands. Kauai has craggy mountains, luxuriant valleys and many breezy beaches, mostly managed to dodge excessive development. Yes, there are Kauai hotels, resort complexes and some of the state's best golf courses, but they're centralized in small pockets. The landscape has also been protected by height restrictions—keeping buildings from towering over the coconut trees. As a result, it's the natural scenery that elicits the "Wows!" on Kauai.
Serious hikers should set aside an extra day or two just to hike Kauai's marvelous nature trails. Outdoor enthusiasts will also find challenging golf, whale-watching (December-March) and boat trips along the spectacular Na Pali Coast. It should be noted that some people—especially those who don't enjoy nature—may find Kauai dull, as shopping and nightlife are limited.
Location
One of the most mesmerizing experiences of a Hawaiian cruise is viewing the sculpted cliffs of the Na Pali Coast as they descend abruptly into the Pacific Ocean (
pali means "cliffs"). That explains why most ships spend several hours sailing along the northwestern coast before pulling up to the dock in Nawiliwili Bay at Lihue, the main town and county seat, on the east side of the island. Newer, larger ships may have trouble negotiating the harbor and may tender passengers in.
Nawiliwili Harbor is one of the smallest ship harbors in the islands. It's narrow and compact, and maneuvering cruise ships around the rock seawall that protects the harbor from heavy surf is an enormous challenge. On occasion, weather has forced a cancellation of the port call at Nawiliwili. Two ships can tie up at a time at the terminal, where passengers are usually greeted by hula dancers and Hawaiian music. The terminal has phones, as well as a visitor information desk. To contact the Nawiliwili Harbor port office, call 808-241-3750.
The port is 1.5 mi/3 km from Lihue town and has easy access to area attractions. Although there isn't much around the port, you can walk several blocks to Kalapaki Beach and a variety of shops and restaurants, including popular Duke's Canoe Club and Barefoot Bar. Free shuttles transport passengers to the Anchor Cove Shopping Center, Harbor Mall, Hilo Hatties and Kukui Grove. You'll need transportation to see the rest of the island.
An activity booth is located at the Aloha Beach Resort (phone 808-245-3300; http://www.hawaiiactivityworld.com). The Kauai Visitors Bureau in Lihue is open daily 8 am-4 pm. Suite 101, 4334 Rice St. (phone 808-245-3971, toll-free 800-262-1400; http://www.kauai-hawaii.com).
Shore Excursions
Consider signing up for the excursions offered by your ship. They may cost more than sightseeing on your own, but they free you from having to make arrangements and hire transportation. You also won't have to worry about missing the ship.
Typical shore excursions, departing from Lihue, explore the old sugar plantation towns and mountain terrain of the island, travel up the Wailua River by kayak or take you on snorkeling, helicopter or horseback adventures. Shore excursions—and their prices—may vary from cruise line to cruise line. Check with your ship's shore-excursion director or your travel agent for additional information.
