Waimea Canyon and Koke'e State Park on Kauai

There is just so much that you can do while you are on holiday in Hawaii that at times it can get down-right intimidating. How do you fit it all in and get the most of your visit? Well, the first thing that you do is relax and keep in mind that you're on vacation!

Then, the next thing that you do-or the next two things-is to visit the Waimea Canyon and Koke'e State Park!

Why Visit Waimea Canyon?

The American novelist, Mark Twain, called the Waimea Canyon the Grand Canyon of the Pacific. Sure, it may not be as large or as old as the mainland canyon, but you won't see anything else like it in all of Hawaii.

The Waimea Canyon is 14 miles long and deeper than 3,600 feet. You can follow the main of Waimea Canyon Drive to beautiful look out points. Once at the look out point you can see beautiful, panoramic vistas of deep gorges of emerald green valleys, rugged crags and colorful buttes.

If you continue further down the line on Waimea Canyon Drive, you will eventually run into Koke'e State Park.

Koke'e State Park: Another Wonder of Kauai

There are two main reasons why a visit to Koke'e State Park is a memory maker.

The first reason is that there are numerous hiking trails that travel the park and enter the Waimea Canyon. Whether you are a novice or seasoned hiker, there will be a hiking trail for you at Koke'e.

The second reason is two beautiful lookouts. Stand on the Kalalau and the Puu O Kila Lookouts to get a gorgeous view of the Kalalau Valley, which you can see stretching all the way to the Pacific Ocean.

Something to consider when driving and hiking up the Lookouts is that the temperature does drop at the 3,200 to 4,200 foot elevations. It is one location that you may actually need a sweater or jacket in Hawaii. Now that is a memorable trip in itself!

When visiting the "Garden Isle" of Kauai on your holiday it is important take advantage of seeing as much of the natural wonder of the Island as you can. Don't forget to kiss your sweetheart or hug your kids to truly make it an unforgettable moment looking out over the beautiful valleys.