United States of America > Hawaii > Kauai
Overview
The wettest spot on earth is said to be Kauai's Mount Waialeale, which has an average rainfall of 485 inches per year. This has resulted in the Alakai Swamp, the highest swamp in the world, and the Waimea River, the longest river in the Hawaiian Islands. It also causes an abundance of rainbows and lush vegetation that has earned it the title of 'the Garden Island'.
Kauai was the first of the Hawaiian Islands to be discovered by English explorer Captain James Cook in 1778 when he landed at Waimea on Kauai's southwest coast. There's evidence, however, that he was not the first European in Hawaii; some Spanish sailors may have paid a visit about a century earlier.
Today Kauai is popular with visitors, but tourism development is concentrated in just a few prime locations such as the Princeville resort on the north coast. The main attractions on Kauai are its natural beauty and the unassuming lifestyle of the people.
Holidaymakers who opt for Kauai's raw wilderness are rewarded with some of the most secluded, pristine beaches in the Hawaiian Islands and marvellous natural wonders such as Waimea Canyon, which covers 14 miles (23km) on the west side. There are also some restored historic sites to explore, such as the Alekoko Fishpond near Nawiliwili Harbour on the southeast coast, which is regarded as an engineering wonder of ancient times.
Climate
The climate of Kauai is semi-tropical, moderated by the ocean surrounding the island, and the weather is generally warm and sunny year-round. There are two seasons; summer (May to October) has pleasant temperatures with an average of about 78ºF (26ºC), and winter (November to April) has temperatures that rarely fall below 65ºF (18ºC). The sheltered southern and eastern sides of the island enjoy the best weather, with little wind and clear, sunny skies.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rain (cm) | 150 | 85 | 106 | 89 | 80 | 43 | 54 | 45 | 60 | 112 | 138 | 131 |
| Rain (inches) | 5.9 | 3.34 | 4.17 | 3.5 | 3.14 | 1.69 | 2.12 | 1.77 | 2.36 | 4.4 | 5.43 | 5.15 |
| Average Temperature (°C) | 22 | 22 | 22.5 | 24 | 24 | 25 | 26 | 26 | 26 | 25 | 24 | 22.5 |
| Min Temperature (°C) | 18 | 18 | 19 | 21 | 21 | 22 | 23 | 23 | 23 | 22 | 21 | 19 |
| Max Temperature (°C) | 26 | 26 | 26 | 27 | 27 | 28 | 29 | 29 | 29 | 28 | 27 | 26 |
| Average Temperature (°F) | 46.5 | 71.5 | 72.5 | 75.5 | 75.5 | 77 | 78.5 | 78.5 | 78.5 | 77 | 75.5 | 72.5 |
| Min Temperature (°F) | 64 | 64 | 66 | 70 | 70 | 72 | 73 | 73 | 73 | 72 | 70 | 66 |
| Max Temperature (°F) | 79 | 79 | 79 | 81 | 81 | 82 | 84 | 84 | 84 | 82 | 81 | 79 |
Sightseeing
Sightseeing
Kauai is a paradise for outdoor adventurists and draws hikers, surfers, scuba divers and kayakers. Despite being the longest-colonised of the Hawaiian Islands, Kauai's infrastructure isn't as developed as most of its neighbours; visitors to the island come for the natural beauty, rather than resorts and nightlife.
Hiking is one of the most popular activities on Kauai, and a great way to see the spectacular interior of the island. The 11-mile Kalalau Trail is one of the most famous routes, though Waimea Canyon and Koke'e State Park offer slightly easier trails that are suitable for the whole family. Other great outdoor places for families include Lydgate State Park and the Huleia National Wildlife Refuge.
The beaches on Kauai are ideal for watersports, and the south shore offers great opportunities for snorkelling and scuba diving. Dive boats leave daily from Po'ipu, and Ni'ihau is an unforgettable dive site, though more expensive. Many south shore beaches also offer kayak rentals, and visitors can explore the many miles of navigable rivers, either alone or with a guide.