Back to nature in Kauai, Hawaii: Where to hike, kayak, and bird-watch

Known as the Garden Isle, Kauai is draped with tropical rain forests and cascading waterfalls, all surrounded by sapphire seas. It’s a small island, easily traversed in a day, but visitors who want to explore beyond the resorts will find plenty of natural diversions, from hiking and bird watching to exploring Secret Falls.


Kokee State Park and Waimea Canyon (Halemanu-Kokee Trail): If you're interested in hiking Kauai, your first stop should be the Kokee Natural History Museum. Its exhibits provide an overview of the natural and cultural history of Waimea Canyon and Kokee State Park. But for hikers, its bigger value is its knowledgeable staffers, who can point you to just the right hike -- there are many to choose from. The steep Halemanu - Kokee Trail reveals some amazing scenery, but if you’re hiking with kids, the Kaluapuhi Trail is probably a better choice. No matter where your hike takes you, make certain to stop at the Waimea Canyon Overlook for a glimpse into the Grand Canyon of the Pacific. This remote area of Kauai offers some camping, but if you don't want to rough it, the closest accommodations are in the Poipu area. The Castle Kiahuna Plantation Beach Bungalows feature full kitchens, allowing you to save on the expense of dining out.


Kilauea Point Lighthouse and Kilauea Point National Wildlife Refuge: First lit up in 1913, Kilauea Point Lighthouse is now a fun destination for history buffs and photographers alike. In 1927, the beacon saved the lives of two airmen completing the Army’s first transpacific flight from the west coast. Today, the lighthouse stands guard over a different sort of flight. Situated within the Kilauea Point National Wildlife Refuge, the sky is alive with seabirds. Tucked amongst the native vegetation you’ll see nesting birds, and if you’re lucky, eggs or chicks, too. The refuge was established to protect threatened and endangered species and by all appearances, it’s working. Stop in at the visitor center to borrow a pair of binoculars for better viewing.


Kayak the Wailua River to Secret Falls: If you're up for an adventure, paddle up the Wailua River in a kayak to Secret Falls. There are several tour operators to choose from; I like Wailua Kayak Adventures. They call it an "easy" trip, but I will beg to differ. There is some work involved here, so if you're not up for that, skip it and order up an umbrella drink. That said, the trip is a blast! The river winds through lush overgrowth and is rife with jumping fish. Just when you think your arms might fall off from paddling, you'll beach the kayaks and head out on a muddy hike to Secret Falls. The hike is over rough ground, but it's not difficult. Secret Falls will take your breath away -- as will the cold, cold water in the pool below. You'll have time to take in your surroundings, and maybe a picnic lunch, before you head back to the kayaks and the trip downriver. Near the mouth of the river, the Kauai Beach Resort offers budget-friendly accommodations.


- Kris Bordessa of Honolulu On The Cheap and Big Island On The Cheap