Fun Facts about Kauai

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When travelling to a new destination, it is fun to learn a bit about the place as well as a brief history. Kauai is the 4th largest island among the Hawaiian archipelago and is known as Tauaʻi in the ancient Kauaʻi dialect. The “Garden Isle” is the oldest of the Hawaiian Islands and is distinguished for Waimea Canyon State Park.

Kauai takes its name from the native Hawaiian legend Hawai’iloa, the Polynesian navigator attributed with discovering the islands. Approximately 6 million years old and formed by volcanic activity, Kauai boasts tall mountain peaks, lush vegetation, and scenic beaches. Kauai also boasts one of the wettest spots on earth, with an annual average of 460 inches of rainfall east of Mount Waiʻaleʻale. High rainfall has carved valleys and waterfalls over the years, offering spectacular one-of-a-kind scenery.

Princeville was named in honor of an 1860 visit by Prince Albert Kamehameha and his wife Queen Emma. The area was originally owned by Robert Crichton Wylie, who attempted to grow Coffee, but because of the low lying wetlands, switched to sugarcane. Elisha Hunt Allen purchased the land in 1867 and turned it into a cattle ranch. The Princeville as we see it today was developed in 1968 initially with a golf course and resort.

Interesting Island Facts:

Hawaii Standard Time is observed year round on the island of Kauai

Kauai has been featured in more than 70 films and television shows, including 1967 King Kong, Soul Surfer, opening credits of MASH, Tropic Thunder, Jurassic Park and more!

Holo Holo Koloa Scenic Byway is a state scenic byway that runs for 19 miles and connects many of Kauai’s cultural and historic sites including the Maluhia Road (Tree Tunnel), Puhi (Spouting Horn), The National Tropical Botanical Gardens, and the Salt Beds.

The Hawaiian Islands are the Earth’s most isolated land parcels, sitting 2400 miles away from the nearest continent of North America or other Polynesian Islands.

Kauai Coffee is the largest coffee plantation in the United States

Kauai maintains the only navigable rivers in the entire Hawaiian Islands.

Kauai has more miles of beach per coastline than any other island.

Kauai has more hiking trails than any other island.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Q: Do I need a rental car?

A: Yes…if you plan on exploring the island. We highly recommend a rental car to give you the freedom of travelling to the many adventure spots on the island. If you prefer to stay close to your vacation rental, you can use taxi services.

Q: Is it safe to swim in the ocean?

A: Swimming in the ocean can be safe when you follow a few tips, like obeying the lifeguard, check surf reports to see current tide conditions, swim with a buddy, watch the ocean, drink plenty of water and wear plenty of sunscreen.

Q: What clothes should I bring?

A: Kauai is very relaxed. Bring shorts, shirts, bathing suits, and sun dresses during the day. Sport coats and collared shirts may be required for fine dining. Evenings can be a bit cooler so bring a light sweater.

Q: Can I bring home flowers and fruit from the island?

A: Kauai has strict regulations on produce, vegetables, flowers, meat and fish. Check with vendors as well as the airport to find out what items are inspected and allowed to travel back to the mainland.

Q: Are there any dangerous snakes, bugs, and critters around the island?

A: There are no snakes on the islands; however, you may spot a wild boar in rural areas, although they are generally afraid of humans. Your will see mosquitos, so use repellant as necessary.

Contact us for more questions prior to your