Kaua'i Island

Soaring cliffs rise above sapphire blue waters, a work of art that can only have been sculpted by nature. Rising mountains and plunging canyons now both reign in their emerald cloaks, having been forged by molten red earth millions of years ago. Today, the natural wonders of Kaua'i may still be discovered.

The Garden Isle

Vivid flowers and luch greenery give The Garden Isle its nickname, but Kaua'i is also a land of regal mountains, rugged sea cliffs, hidden caves, primordial swamps, and crystalline streams cascading to the sea. With soft white sand caressed by incredible shades of turquoise, Kaua'i's secluded beaches define paradise.

At the island's centre Mount Wai'ale'ale towers some 5,148 feet above sea level. The mountain draws an estimated 40 feet of rain each year, earning the dubious distinction as one of the wettest places on earth. Fly through rainbows and hover above spectacular waterfalls on a helicopter ride over the island..

Formed by centuries of wind and rain, the great gorge of Waimea Canyon, known as the 'Grand Canyon of the Pacific', plunges to a depth of 3,600 feet. Marvel at the panoramic view from the Waimea Canyon Lookout.

Kayak the Hule'ia River in search of Menehune, the mystical elves of Hawaiian folklore. Or relax and enjoy a scenic boat ride to the serene Fern Grotto.

Whatever you do, don't forget your camera, especially if you're a movie buff. The north shore of Kauai features the scenic beaches of South Pacific and the dense rainforests of Raiders of the Lost Ark; the south side of the island is where Steven Spielberg filmed Jurassic Park.

According to legend, the Menehune were an elfin people said to retreat into the forest when the Polynesians arrived. Master builders, they forbade anyone from watching them work. Once, at the request of a prince and princess, they built a fishpond overnight. The royal pair watched, and were never seen again. In their place stand two pillars of stone.