Islands of Utopia

KAUAI

Why Visit: This was where Jurassic Park was filmed, and the natural landscape is unmatched across the globe. The island was formed about six million years ago, making it one of the oldest islands in the chain, and the flora and fauna have remained virtually untouched by the modern development.

Where to Stay: Princeville Resort. Located on the North Shore, Princeville is set amidst the island’s signature verdant green cliffs. It is home to two of Hawaii’s championship golf courses, as well as a day spa that puts even the weariest traveler in the Aloha mindset.

Don’t Miss: Fern Grotto. Today one of the island’s biggest attractions, Fern Grotto once was accessible only to Hawaiian royalty. It is a natural lava-rock grotto on the Wailua River that is abundant with hanging ferns. The unique setting acts as a natural amphitheater, and musicians are always on hand playing soothing local tunes. Wailua is the only navigable river in all of Hawaii, so take advantage by getting into a kayak or canoe and exploring the jungle.

Nature: Waimea Canyon. Described by Mark Twain as the Grand Canyon of the Pacific, Waimea is roughly 10 miles long, one mile wide, and 3,600 feet deep. The walls of the ravine showcase the various volcanic eruptions that took place over the ages, and various scenic lookouts, which can be reached by easy to intermediate hikes, offer unprecedented vistas of the rugged Hawaiian landscape.

Adventure: Horseback Riding. While the island offers many different ways to saddle up, we recommend checking out Princeville Ranch, one of Hawaii’s oldest cattle ranches, owned and operated by a fifth-generation kama’aina island family. The ranch offers four different rides, including one that will take you to a tropical forest where you will discover an 80-foot waterfall. For the more adventurous, opt for the Paniolo Cattle Drive Ride, where you have the opportunity to play Hawaiian cowboy.