Kauai - The Garden Isle... and a garden it is! Pink sand beaches and tropical rain forests are the backdrop for a "postcard perfect" tropical escape. Kauai's splendor has been the setting for Hollywood productions such as South Pacific, Jurrasic Park, and Fantasy Island.

Waimea Canyon

Nicknamed the "Grand Canyon of the Pacific" by author Mark Twain, Waimea Canyon is one of Kauai's natural wonders with canyons eroded by water, wind and rain. Waimea Canyon is the largest canyon in the Pacific measuring 10 miles long, 2 mile wide and over 3,500 feet deep. Like the Grand Canyon, the lines along the canyon's walls indicate the different volcanic eruptions and lava flows that have occurred over the centuries.

Lihue is the county seat and location of the Kauai Airport. Total area is 549 sq. miles - 33 miles long and 25 miles wide with 90 miles of coastline. Population is almost 51,000 residents and the highest point is Kawaikiki Peak at 5,243 ft above sea level.

Driving Times from Lihue:
Kalalau Valley Lookout - 1 hour 40 minutes
Kilauea - 45 minutes
Kokee - 90 minutes
Koloa / Poipu - 30 minutes
Princeville / Hanalei - 60 minutes
Waimea Canyon - 75 minutes

Facts: Population 58,303, Area 552 sq. miles

The "Garden Island" offers magnificent scenery and lush vegetation, beautiful waterfalls, the spectacular Waimea Canyon, the great "hidden" valley of Kalalau, colorful tropical plants and flowers. Landmarks: Hanalei Bay, Wailua River, Nawiliwili Bay, Poipu Beach.

Flower: Mokihana (Green Berry)

Island Color: Purple