Fondly known as the "Grand Canyon of the Pacific", Waimea Canyon offers spectacular views that rival it’s mainland cousin yet with its own island personality. A stop to see the Spouting Horn will be made during the tour. The actual canyon is bursting with ever-changing color and yellow ginger, eucalyptus trees and Kauai’s own mokihana berries grow right up to the 3,500 foot elevation. We take you up to 3,400 feet to the canyon overlook and provide a visual history along the way. A short walk from the transportation takes you to the overlook.
Waima, located on the western end of Kauai, offers a rich history and plenty of adventure. The town’s claim to fame is the landing spot where Captain Cook first set foot in Hawaii in 1778. On the return drive you will pass through Old Koloa Town, established in 1834, situated in the heart of Hawaii’s first sugar cane plantation. Your guide will share its history with you as you drive by.
After your morning journey to the Canyon you will return to the cruise pier where you will have time to grab lunch onboard your ship.
After the break, we head for the Wailua River, a long, slowly meandering river that starts at the Wai’ale’ale Crater and is fed by many tributaries on its way to the ocean. It is the only navigable river in Hawai.
For a unique Hawaiian adventure join this cruise up the river to the sacred Fern Grotto, a lava rock grotto covered with tropical ferns. Hawaiian Musicians will serenade you at the grotto with traditional, local songs including the famous “Hawaiian Wedding Song”. The acoustics within this natural amphitheater are superior and greatly enhance the music.
The cruise up the river usually takes approximately 40 minutes on a long, flat bottom riverboat. You will also encounter kayakers, motorboats and water skiers along the way. During the cruise there are many photo opportunities of tropical grasslands lining the river and the majestic cloud-covered Mt. Waialeale in the background.
You will also enjoy The overlook at Opaekaa Falls-- another romantic stop that will surely secure your love of this Garden Island.
