Ruth Haines
Lihue Airport is the primary access point for visitors to Kauai, a lush paradise with thrilling activities for all kinds of travellers. The airport is conveniently located a mere six minutes from the island's southeast corner, making it an excellent starting point for any journey to Kauai. From the airport, you can easily access shuttle services to nearby resorts and hotels, making it a breeze to get settled after your flight. But what can you do around Lihue Airport? Here are some ideas to get you started on your Kauai adventure: explore the natural wonders of Kauai, including its hidden coves and stunning sunsets, go on a boat tour from Nawiliwili Harbour, spot dolphins and whales, or simply relax on a sunset cruise. If you're a movie buff, don't miss the Hawaii Movie Tour, where you can explore filming locations from iconic films like Jurassic Park and Raiders of the Lost Ark. For a more active experience, try bodysurfing, stand-up paddleboarding, or swimming at Kalapaki Beach, or explore the rugged off-road trails by ATV. With so much to offer, Lihue is an excellent gateway to the eastern side of Kauai, providing access to cultural landmarks and natural attractions that will create lasting memories.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Location | Southeast corner of Kauai |
| Distance from airport to town | 6 minutes by car |
| Route to town | West along Ahukini Road |
| Primary access point | Visitors to Kauai |
| Transport options | Shuttle service, taxi, car |
| Attractions | Kalapaki Beach, Wailua Falls, Lydgate Beach Park, Kauai Museum, Kilohana Plantation, Wailua Golf Course, Kauai Lagoons Golf Club, Nawiliwili Bay, Kalepa Mountain Forest Reserve, Ahukini Recreation Pier State Park |
| Activities | Scuba diving, snorkelling, boat tours, helicopter tours, hiking, surfing, bodysurfing, paddleboarding, swimming, guided tours, sightseeing tours, ziplining, golfing, fishing, sunset cruises |
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What You'll Learn
- Explore Kauai's hidden coves and watch the sunset on a boat tour from Nawiliwili Harbor
- Take a helicopter tour over the Na Pali Coast
- Visit the Kauai Museum to learn about the island's history
- Play a round of golf at Kauai Lagoons Golf Club
- Go bodysurfing, stand-up paddleboarding, or surfing at Kalapaki Beach
Explore Kauai's hidden coves and watch the sunset on a boat tour from Nawiliwili Harbor
Lihue Airport is the primary access point for visitors to Kauai. The airport offers shuttle services to nearby resorts and hotels in Lihue, Poipu, Hanalei, and Princeville. Here are some suggestions for things to do and see around Lihue Airport, focusing on the boat tour from Nawiliwili Harbor to explore Kauai's hidden coves and watch the sunset:
Nawiliwili Harbor is located in the town of Lihue, making it easily accessible from the airport. The boat tour will take you along the breathtaking Na Pali Coast, renowned for its secluded beaches, hidden coves, and enchanting sea caves. The coastline stretches for 17 miles along the northwest shore of Kauai and is characterised by rugged cliffs and pristine beaches. Much of this coastline is inaccessible by land due to its remote location and sheer cliffs, making a boat tour the ideal way to explore its hidden gems.
As you cruise along the coastline, your experienced captain and crew will navigate your vessel through the majestic scenery. You'll have the opportunity to witness unspoiled beaches, crystal-clear waters, and mystical sea caves shaped by the relentless power of the ocean. Keep an eye out for playful dolphins, graceful sea turtles, and majestic humpback whales (during the season).
The boat tour will also take you to explore ancient Hawaiian ruins and provide you with a deeper understanding of the area's cultural heritage. You'll have the chance to step foot on pristine sandy shores and perhaps even go snorkelling to discover the vibrant marine life up close. As the sun begins to set, relax and enjoy panoramic sunset views of the Na Pali Coast with a refreshing drink in hand.
Kauai Sea Tours and Capt Andy's Kauai Boat Tours are two popular companies offering boat tours of the Na Pali Coast. They provide a range of tour options, including luxury catamaran tours and wild raft expeditions, ensuring an unforgettable experience filled with adventure and relaxation.
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Take a helicopter tour over the Na Pali Coast
If you're looking for an exhilarating experience and a chance to take in the breathtaking beauty of Kauai, a helicopter tour over the Na Pali Coast is an excellent choice. Here's a guide to help you plan this unforgettable adventure:
Kauai is renowned for its stunning natural scenery, and a helicopter tour offers a unique perspective that simply can't be matched by any other means of transportation. With over 70% of the island inaccessible by road, a helicopter ride is the best way to explore Kauai's remote and rugged landscapes, including the famous Na Pali Coast.
The Na Pali Coast:
The Na Pali Coast is a stunning stretch of coastline along Kauai's North Shore, characterised by towering 3000-foot sea cliffs and majestic valleys. Spanning 17 miles, this rugged coastline is a sight to behold, and a helicopter tour will allow you to appreciate its grandeur and beauty in a way that ground-level views cannot provide. You'll soar over the dramatic cliffs, taking in the vast expanse of the Pacific Ocean on one side and the lush green mountains on the other.
In addition to the Na Pali Coast, a helicopter tour will typically include other highlights of Kauai. You'll fly over Hanalei Bay, a picturesque beach stretching nearly two miles, backed by 4000-foot emerald mountains. Keep an eye out for the three distinct mountain peaks: Hihimanu, Namolokama, and the triangular Mamalahoa. You'll also get a bird's-eye view of the famous Manawaiopuna Falls, also known as "Jurassic Park" falls, due to its appearance in the iconic film. Surrounded by lush native flora, these falls are a sight to behold, tumbling over a 380-foot tall cliff.
Booking Your Tour:
Several companies offer helicopter tours of the Na Pali Coast, including Blue Hawaiian Helicopters and Airborne Aviation. You can book your tour directly through their websites or by giving them a call. Both companies provide departures from the Lihue Heliport, making it convenient for travellers arriving or departing from Lihue Airport. When booking, consider whether you prefer a doors-on or doors-off experience, as some companies offer the thrilling option of a doors-off helicopter ride for even more breathtaking views.
Practical Information:
The Lihue Heliport's address is 3730 Ahukini Rd, Lihue, HI 96766, and their phone number is (808) 245-5800. Remember to bring a valid photo ID and arrive a little early for your tour, as you'll need to check in and attend a safety briefing. Ensure you wear comfortable clothing and consider bringing a light jacket, as it can get chilly up in the air.
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Visit the Kauai Museum to learn about the island's history
If you're looking to learn about the history of Kauai, a visit to the Kauai Museum is a must. Located in Lihue, just minutes away from the airport, this museum is dedicated to preserving and showcasing the rich history and cultural heritage of the island.
The museum was established in 1960 through the efforts of Juliet Rice Wichman and Dora Jane Isenberg Cole, who raised funds for a building adjacent to the Wilcox Library to house the collection. Over the years, the museum has expanded its collection and commitment to preserving and sharing the stories of Kauai and its people.
The Kauai Museum is home to a vast collection of artefacts, paintings, and historical items that provide a glimpse into the past of the island and its ancient inhabitants. You'll find native artefacts representing the early settling of the island, including feather capes, handmade baskets, wooden ware, and more. The museum also covers the subsequent European and other migrations to the island, offering a comprehensive overview of Kauai's history.
The museum offers both self-guided and guided tours. The guided tours, led by knowledgeable docents, are highly recommended as they provide deeper insights into the exhibits and help bring the history of Kauai to life. The tours are available on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays at 10 am, and no reservations are required.
In addition to the exhibits, the Kauai Museum also offers weekly classes for members and the public, including painting, weaving, and even hula classes. The museum also has a gift shop, "māhele at Kaua'i Museum," which offers authentic items that celebrate Kauai's culture and traditions at great prices.
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Play a round of golf at Kauai Lagoons Golf Club
Lihue Airport is the primary access point for visitors to Kauai, and although it is small, it offers all the amenities you would expect. Shuttle services are available to nearby resorts and hotels, making it an excellent starting point for your Kauai journey.
One such destination is the Kauai Lagoons Golf Club, where you can enjoy a round of golf in a romantic setting. The club is located in Lihue, a short distance from the airport, and is one of nine golf courses on the island.
The Kauai Lagoons Golf Club offers a beautiful and challenging course. It is a great option for those seeking a romantic and scenic golfing experience. The course is set in a picturesque location, with the option to stroll along the seaside before or after your game.
If you are an avid golfer, you may also want to consider the signature Ocean Course at Hokuala, designed by PGA legend Jack Nicklaus. This course offers the longest continuous stretch of oceanfront golf in Hawaii and has been named one of the world's most beautiful courses by MSN Travel. With dramatic seaside cliffs and mango and guava groves, it is a golfer's paradise and a memorable experience.
Whether you choose to play at the Kauai Lagoons Golf Club or venture out to other courses, there is plenty of fun and excitement to be had in Lihue and Kauai.
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Go bodysurfing, stand-up paddleboarding, or surfing at Kalapaki Beach
Kalapaki Beach is a short drive south of the Tamba Surf Shop, and it is the first beach you'll spot when flying into Kaua'i. The beach is an excellent spot for bodysurfing, stand-up paddleboarding, and surfing, especially for beginners. Kalapaki Bay, which fronts the Kauai Marriott Beach Resort, is partially protected by a large breakwater wall, creating a more relaxed environment for water activities.
Kalapaki Beach is also a great place to relax, sunbathe, or play beach volleyball. You can rent sun loungers and umbrellas, or bring your own picnic lunch to enjoy at the beach. There are several dining and retail options nearby, including Duke's Restaurant, and an ABC store just steps away from the shore.
If you're looking to try out surfing, Kalapaki Beach is an ideal spot to learn. Surf lessons are offered year-round, and you can rent surfboards, stand-up paddleboards, and beach catamarans from shacks located on and near the beach. The main surf break is out on the reef to the far right or left, and the inside is suitable for bodysurfing when the waves are pumping. A longboard or boogie board is recommended for this surf spot. Remember to check the surf forecasts or reports before heading out, and be cautious as there are no lifeguards on duty.
Kalapaki Beach offers convenient parking options, including the upper parking lot of the Marriott Hotel and a small beach access parking lot at the Kauai Marriott Resort & Beach Club. The rough dirt parking lot on the far west end of the bay is more local and provides access to public restrooms and an outdoor shower, but you may need to cross a small river mouth to reach the beach.
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Frequently asked questions
The best option to get to your hotel is via a Lihue Airport shuttle, which offers direct access to Kauai's top resorts at a fraction of the cost of a taxi.
Lydgate Beach Park is a great option for families, as it offers a range of activities and wonderful free attractions. Kalapaki Beach is another popular destination, offering swimming, surfing, body surfing, and well-kept beaches that are safe for kids.
You can explore Kauai's hidden coves and witness breathtaking sunsets on a boat tour departing from Nawiliwili Harbor. You can also hike the Na Pali Coast, which offers lush canyons and stunning views of the Pacific Ocean. Other outdoor activities include bodysurfing, stand-up paddleboarding, surfing, and swimming at various beaches near Lihue.
You can visit the Kauai Museum to learn about Hawaiian culture and history through interactive exhibits, ancient artifacts, traditional Hawaiian tools, weapons, and clothing. You can also explore ancient fishponds and take a Hawaii Movie Tour to see filming locations from movies like Jurassic Park and Raiders of the Lost Ark.
Lihue is said to be the most travelled town on the island of Kauai due to its airport, which is the primary access point for visitors. The area was initially established due to the sugarcane industry, and you can still visit many abandoned sugar mills today.
