Kauai and Maui: Nature & Adventure

Arrive at Kauai Lihue airport. Pick up your rental car and drive yourself to your hotel.

Kauai, the northernmost of the Hawaiian islands, is a paradise of rainforests, rivers and waterfalls. To appreciate the natural beauty, cruise on the Wailua River by kayak or outrigger canoe to reach the Opaekaa and Wailua Falls. Or, take an open-air boat to the lava-formed Fern Grotto.
Poipu Beach, with its wide bay, is a great spot for swimming, snorkeling and surfing. Monk seals frequent the pristine waters, and humpback whales can be spotted along the coastline in winter.

In Kokee State Park, observe rare native birds such as iwi, moa and apapane, and explore the Kokee Natural History Museum. The park offers some of Hawaii’s best hiking trails and striking views of Waimea Canyon.

For unforgettable views, take a helicopter over the majestic Na Pali Coast. In the evening, enjoy a traditional Luau, a Hawaiian feast and show in one.

Group Hidden Valley Falls Kayak Adventure

Go on an exhilarating kayaking and hiking adventure that showcases the pristine beauty of Kauai. Hike through rainforests and valleys, climb atop majestic cliffs and come upon glorious waterfalls. Paddle your way down the Huleia Stream in a tandem kayak. Keep an eye out for endangered water birds such as coots, Hawaiian ducks, stilts and moorhens as you glide through Huleia National Wildlife Refuge and the adjacent Menehune Fish Pond.

These locations were used in Hollywood movies such as ‘The Lost World’ (the Jurassic Park sequel) and ‘Raiders of the Lost Ark’. Head for the base of Haupu Mountain and go on a guided jungle trek into Hidden Valley. Along the way, your guide will tell you about the region’s ecology and rich biodiversity. Take a break at swimming holes with rope swings and waterfalls, before returning to the dock in a twin-hulled motorised Hawaiian canoe.

Explore Waimea Canyon and Koke’e State Park on your own

If you have the time and the weather allows it, we recommend visiting some of the attractions in Waimea Canyon and Koke’e State Park. At the canyon, which is known as the ‘Grand Canyon of the Pacific’, start with a 15-minute walk on the Iliau Nature Loop Trail for views of Waimea and Waialae Canyons. Then drive along Waimea Canyon Road, stopping at Waimea Canyon Lookout and Puu Hinahina for sweeping views of rugged cliffs, waterfalls, and deep gorges.

Further along, the Kalalau Lookout offers a stunning view of the Nā Pali Coast. Continue into Koke’e State Park to explore rainforest trails and stop by the Koke’e Natural History Museum to learn about the area’s topography as well as the wildlife and plants found here.

Group Nualolo Kai Beach Landing Raft Tour

Experience the breathtaking beauty of the Na Pali Coast, a region that is accessible only by boat. Hop onto the 24-foot-long inflatable raft at Port Allen and travel along the southwest coast of Kauai to the Na Pali Coast. Cruise past soaring cliffs, secluded beaches, caves, waterfalls and more. Keep an eye out for dolphins and sea turtles along the way, and see the lovely Niihau Island, Polihale and Kokee state parks from afar.

Stop at Nualolo Kai, an ancient fishing village with a pristine white sand beach and plant sanctuary. Spot monk seals lazing on the soft white sands, and check out the petroglyphs that can be found all over the beach. Take a guided hike through the rainforest on trails that hug the coastline, allowing you to enjoy delightful panoramic views. If the sea conditions are favourable, you can also explore the nearby sea caves and spend time at one of the best snorkelling spots in Kauai.

Drive to Kauai Lihue airport and drop off your rental car. Board an hour-long flight to Maui Kahului. At the airport pick up your rental car and drive yourself to your hotel.

Maui, known as ‘The Valley Isle,’ is the second-largest of the Hawaiian islands. With its exquisite beaches and striking landscapes, there is much to discover here.

Snorkel at Molokini, a rare submerged volcanic caldera and Hawaii’s only island marine sanctuary. Join a whale-watching cruise led by marine naturalists for close-up encounters with humpback whales.
The scenic drive to Hana winds along the coast through lush valleys and cascading waterfalls. In Upcountry Maui, stroll through Makawao, renowned for its paniolo (Hawaiian cowboys), art galleries, and artisan workshops.

Visit the Hui No‘eau Visual Arts Center for curated exhibitions, and do not miss stopping at the century-old Komoda Bakery to sample their famed cream puffs.

Scenic Drive to Hana on Your Own

Travel along the Road to Hana, an iconic 104-km-long stretch that takes you through some of the most spectacular sights of Maui. As your drive yourself, enjoy seascapes, waterfalls and picture-perfect panoramas. You will pass through surfing towns, traditional villages and parks. Stop by the Upper Waikani Falls, also known as Three Bears Falls.

Visit the Ke‘anae Congregational Church and take in magnificent views of the Pacific Ocean. Walk on the black sand beach at Waianapanapa State Park, and see its blowhole, sea arches and even a lava tube. Explore Hana Bay and return via Kaupo, a ruggedly beautiful part of Maui, and Nu’u Refuge, a wetland that attracts various native birds. Pick and choose what you would like to see during this leisurely exploration of the scenic stretch.

Explore West Maui on your own

If you have the time and the weather allows it, we recommend visiting these attractions in West Maui. Head to Ka’anapali Beach for swimming, surfing or parasailing. Don’t miss the cliff diving ceremony at sunset. Ziplining is also available and offers stunning coastal views.

Honolua Bay is the top spot for surfing, and also great for snorkelling and scuba diving thanks to its coral reefs and marine life.

For a more relaxed vibe, visit Kapalua with its upmarket dining venues and boutique shops. You could also stroll the Kāʻanapali Beachwalk with its scenic views, shops, and restaurants. The nearby islands of Lānaʻi and Molokaʻi offer unforgettable sunset views.

Please note that Lahaina was badly affected by wildfires in 2023 and you should avoid damaged areas. However, many businesses and restaurants have now reopened and are worth checking out.

Group Haleakala Sunrise Tour with Downhill Bike Ride

Experience a stunning sunrise at Haleakalā, the world’s largest dormant volcano, and enjoy a downhill bike ride during this tour.

Set off from your hotel, just after midnight, and drive to the summit at 10,023 feet. Along the way, your guide will share insights about Haleakalā National Park’s unique landscape. At the crater rim, watch the sunrise above the clouds and enjoy a truly unforgettable view. After, go on an interpretive tour of the park.

Later, drive down to 6,500 feet. Once you reach, wear your bicycle gear and bike 42 miles down to the town of Paia. Ride at a relaxed pace through meadows and forests. Take breaks at pretty locations and learn about local history and culture. You can also stop and treat yourself to breakfast before the tour wraps up.

You will be transferred from your hotel to Maui Kahului airport in a private vehicle. Catch your onward flight from here.