A week in paradise deserves some thought, a little planning and big smile. All will ensure you enjoy your visit to Kauai to the fullest.

On the day of your arrival, pick up some of the free pamphlets at the airport while waiting for your luggage. If you are renting a car, catch the appropriate mini-shuttle immediately outside the baggage area to transport you to the remote rental agency. Check out the town of Lihue or pick up supplies from one of the larger 'box stores' that have grown up around the airport during the past few years. There are also several chain restaurants in the immediate area and around the local mall.

If your hotel has an activity desk, pick up information on tours that might interest you, restaurants that suit your tastes, and the whereabouts and conditions of local beaches. Sunset happens quickly and darkness arrives almost immediately thereby limiting beach activity. Review and book available activities and tours - mornings tend to be sunnier. Also decide if you wish to pursue discounts which generally means giving up a few hours for a time-share presentation. Agree on and book an activity schedule but reserve time for the variety of natural marvels, golden sand beaches, roaring surf, and beauty this enchanting island has to offer.

The drive to Waimea Canyon overlooking the west coast of the Island, will fill a day especially if you stop to view the magnificent view from various lookouts. If the weather is clear, you may see the crest of Mt. Wai'ale'ale, the rainiest spot on earth towering over the magnificent blue Pacific. On your way south, you will pass the sugar mill and may even stop to sample coffee at the Kauai Coffee Plantation. You will arrive at The Spouting Horn blowhole before continuing on to Po'ipu Beach Park where you can enjoy great swimming and sandy beaches.

Your third day on Kauai might take advantage of an ATV tour that explores the ranch country or you may prefer to breakfast on the lainai of a Lihue plantation before heading for the local beach to soak up sunshine and salt air.

The road north to Hanalea Bay is slow going, especially the stretch from Lihue through Kapa'a during high traffic time, but well worth the drive. You will pass (or stop to explore) golden sand beaches with soft rolling surf, wild crashing waves beating against the rocky coastline and beautiful flowering bushes and trees. A Guava plantation offers self directed tours through labeled gardens, the Kilauea Lighthouse is both interesting and informative as the cliff birds swoop to the sea. Hanalea Bay offers the casual shopper a chance to browse through local shops and just before the road ends, the entrance to the wet and drive caves yawns darkly from the side of the road.

Get out of the car on day five and spend time on one of Kauai's great swimming beaches. My favorite is Lydgate Beach Park (5 miles north of Lihue Airport) a naturally protected paradise to swim or snorkel.

On day six you can choose between snorkeling, diving or snuba cruises; pick up souvenirs at the local stores in Kapa'a or Lihue, relax by the pool in preparation for a romantic sunset cruise later.

Organize your packing on day seven to allow time to walk the beach one more time, enjoy a cup of coffee by the pool, or breathe the warm air deeply and dream of returning to this tropical paradise.

Learn more about this author, BJWilson.
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