Best things to do in Koloa

Part of South Shore's popular beach, Poipu Beach Park is a good location for relaxing or partaking in beach activities. Go for a walk along the sand, or take a dip in the clear water. Snorkelers can spot sea turtles and colorful fish. Explore tide pools, and admire the collection of coral and shells. Keep an eye out for the monk seals that like to visit the beach. This area can experience strong tides that could make it dangerous to swim, so heed the lifeguards. Surfers and boogie boarders will find an area just for them.

Local Hawaii legend speaks of Spouting Horn and its ocean blowhole on Kauai's south shore. Formed by a combination of volcanic lava rocks and erosion from crashing waves, the spout represents the home of a mythical and angry lizard. Waves funneled into the small opening in the rock shelf can blast as far as 15 m (50 ft) into the air from the mouth of the blowhole, spraying the surrounding area. You can take photos of the spout from the nearby viewpoint with the Pacific Ocean as a backdrop. Keep in mind that this force of nature can be dangerous; remain behind the guard rails and obey all posted signs.

A great spot for surfing and body surfing, Shipwreck Beach offers a wide sandy shoreline surrounded by greenery. You may recognize the 10.7 m (35 ft) cliff at the site, as it was featured in the movie "6 Days and 7 Nights" with Harrison Ford and Anne Heche, who jumped off it. You can climb the cliff for a new perspective of the beach. (Jumping is not recommended, however, because tides can cause shifting sand and expose rocks.) Hike a nature trail here to take advantage of the scenery. Due to strong waves, and because there are no lifeguards in the area, swimming at this beach is not recommended.

Allerton Garden is a gem in the crown of Hawaii National Tropical Botanical Gardens. Designed by Queen Emma of Hawaii and shaped by time, the garden is shaded by large rainforest plant life and tropical fruit. Flowers, ginger, and palms flourish and fill the area with sweet smells. All this natural beauty is complemented by sculptures, fountains, and manicured lawns inspired by European gardens. Take a self-guided tour through the gardens, and stop at the visitor center for literature and to ask the staff any questions.

Enjoy spectacular views of crested buttes and rugged red cliffs while hiking the geological wonder that is Waimea Canyon State Park. Fondly known as the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific,” the canyon stretches over 22.5 km (14 mi) and is 1,097 m (3,600 ft) deep. Hike along the deep valley gorge to the Waimea Overlook to admire the vivid red and green coloring of the volcanic canyon and for panoramic views of the Kaua’i interior. You can rent a car to explore the area or catch a tour bus to the top of the canyon. Be sure to carry a jacket, as the area tends to be very windy.

4353 Waialo Road

Suite 5A

Ele`ele, Hawaii 96705

Toll Free: 1-800-848-6130

Local: 808-335-0815

Kauai Tour Info: (808) 335-0815

Fax: (808) 335-0916

Email: reservations@holoholocharters.com

Hours of operation:

6AM - 8PM Daily

Paddle your way around Hawaii's awe-inspiring scenery on a guided kayaking or canoeing tour from Kapaa. Providing you with necessary equipment and information, experienced guides will take you on a safe journey that'll help you see the region's landscape from a whole new perspective. With many options, you'll also be able to visit authentic Hawaiian villages, hike through the lush island vegetation, or snorkel among sea turtles. Depending on the difficulty level, these 4-to-13-hour tours may have various age restrictions.