5 Up Close and Personal Nature Experiences in Kauai

If skiing isn’t something you’re apt to do and you’d rather be lying on a pristine beach with the tropical wind tousling your hair, white sand between your toes and nothing in sight except vast, turquoise water, then the island of Kauai in Hawaii is where you need to be to get away from the bleak mid-winter. While visiting this slice of heaven, choosing to stay at Villa Athena makes so much sense since you’ll be at one of the most coveted areas of this Garden Isle surrounded by citrus and coconut trees and exotic plants. Perched high above Secret Beach, this astounding home is a Balinese-inspired masterpiece with every imaginable amenity.

Kauai has so much to offer adventurers who love an area’s natural surroundings. We found these five unique Kauai experiences sure to eradicate any winter blahs you might have.

Snorkel and Sightsee on a Niihau and Na Pali Coast Cruise

Seize the rare opportunity to get up-close views of the “Forbidden Isle” of Hawaii on a sightseeing and snorkeling cruise taking you to the shores of Niihau – a private island off the coast of Kauai. You can snorkel along a remote reef, spot dolphins, and keep an eye out for Humpback whales (between November and May). Additionally, enjoy a cruise along the majestic Na Pali Coast. Meet your experienced captain and crew at Port Allen in the morning, and climb aboard a 65-foot catamaran equipped with an inside cabin, restrooms, spacious sundecks and lounging trampolines to enjoy the sunshine and refreshing ocean spray.

You'll have a continental breakfast onboard as the vessel makes its way along Kauai’s northwestern Na Pali Coast, characterized by green sea cliffs reaching dizzying heights of 4,000 feet, pocketed by lush valleys, tropical waterfalls and remote beaches. As you cruise keep an eye out for traveling sea life including spinner dolphins and sea turtles. It's not possible to visit Niihau, but you can admire the island from the water while learning about its unique history and mythology. Strap on a snorkeling mask and fins to explore the coral reefs around the island and the nearby Lehua Crater, considered among the best snorkeling spots in Hawaii. A tasty buffet lunch and refreshments will keep you going throughout the day.

Doors Off Air Kauai Helicopter Tour

This is likely the best private helicopter tour Kauai can offer. There is something a little edgy about flying in a copter with the doors off. You will feel more at one with the beauty of the island you’re exploring from on high. Make sure your cell phone camera is on the ready as you fly over Waimea Canyon, Hanapepe Valley, the famous Na Pali Coast and Mount Waialeale. There is nothing between you and the alluring views on your 50-minute doors off flight. The diversity and beauty of the island is remarkable as you fly over waterfalls and beaches, red and green canyons, and weave in and out of the inlets of the Napali Coast. This is your chance to see Kauai in the best way possible.

See Stunning Views on a Waimea Canyon Drive

Waimea Canyon is known as the Grand Canyon of the Pacific. It’s about 14 miles long, one mile wide and 3,600 feet at its deepest point. The brown and orange ridges of the canyon contrast gorgeously against the green mountains on the rest of the island. The drive up the canyon is an easy one and you can stop at various viewpoints along the way. Morning might be best for the journey since it’s usually clearer and you don’t want clouds to obscure your views. Head up to Koke’e State Park and stop at these areas on the way down:

· Cliff Trail – A 40-minute, two-mile return hike from the main road to a viewpoint overlooking the canyon. You could also drive most of the way there if you have a four-wheel-drive or do the longer Canyon Trail to a waterfall.

· Pu’u Hinahina Lookout – Another fantastic viewpoint and just a short walk from the car park.

· Waimea Canyon Lookout – The busiest but best view of the canyon and waterfall. There are restroom facilities here along with a fruit and drink stand.

Deep Sea Fishing

Climb aboard the 41-foot Mele Kai from Hawaii Deep Sea Fishing and get ready to try your luck hooking the big one! The boat has a spacious flybridge for panoramic views of the Hawaiian waters, wildlife and beautiful shores of Kauai. There are plenty of windows for those beautiful Kauai views. Some varieties of fish to be caught in these waters include:

· Blue Marlin

· Spearfish

· Striped Marlin

· Mahi Mahi

· Yellowfin Tuna (Ahi)

Explore the Dry/Wet Caves

Maniniholo, Waikanaloa and Waikapalae wet caves are off the main road in Haena State Park and are easy to get to. Maniniholo dry cave is directly across the street from Haena Beach Park. This large opening dry cave can be explored easily and is an ideal foray into caving for children. Bring along a flashlight for your cave exploration. The Waikanaloa and Waikapalae caves are a bit further up the road from the lifeguard beach and involve a quick hike. The best time to visit is when the sun is just north of Haena, giving the space an ethereal blue glow from the light reflecting off the bottom of the cave. When all that caving has tired you out, head back to your exclusive home away from home – Villa Odette with its elegant interiors and naturally beautiful outdoor spaces. Relax with your favorite beverage while listening to the waterfalls which are a part of the amazing outdoor pool.

LVH is always prepared to arrange the most engaging and exclusive vacations for you. If you are set on a Kauai getaway, let us know what type of holiday would fill your heart with precious memories and let us work our magic!