Kalalau Now.com

The Island of Kauai, the oldest Hawaiian island at what scientists calculate to be over five million years old, is graced with remarkable, natural beauty, none more so apparent than along the stunning Napali Coast on the island’s north shore. It is no shock that Kauai is termed The Garden Island. This unforgiving and exotic coastline overlooks panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and is a amazing place to experience nature in all its glory.

Huge velvet green cliffs, towering high into the sky, cascading waterfalls plunge into deep, narrow valleys to be met by the cool blue of the ocean. Such is the splendor of the Napali Coast that it has been used as the setting for many Hollywood films such as Jurassic Park I, II and III, Raiders of the Lost Ark and King Kong. You can retrace the steps of the famous, along the 11-mile long Kalalau Trail but with the surroundings changing throughout the seasons, don’t expect to identify any sets. The Kalalau Trail has many naturally incredible views to keep you coming back to experience the seasonal transformations.

Knowledgeable and resilient hikers can take the Kalalau Trail along the Napali Coast which winds across five valleys and ends on the isolated Kalalau Beach but it is worth noting that many hiking clubs rate the Kalalau Trail as one of the most tricky hikes. It also involves an overnight hike but if you can take the pace, you will be well rewarded with magnificent views over the coast and in to the rain forest. The temperature and humidity are things that hikers must be equipped for on the Kalalau Trail.

The trail rises to its highest point of five thousand feet between Ke`e and Hanakapi`ai. From there you can look down upon the azure blue ocean. You come closer to water a little further down the Kalalau Trail when you have to take good care crossing the Hanakapia`ai Stream. A rope is provided at the spot for your ease and security. From here you can take an alternate route along the Hanakapia`ai Falls Trail if you wish to experience the 100 feet high waterfalls, it is well worth the diversion. Other attractions include the view into Pali from the Waiahuakua Valley but these, and the climbs along the Kalalau Trail, are not for the faint of heart.

Other ways to experience the splendor of this coast are by a boat tour or on a kayaking trip. You can kayak in and out of Kalalau beach, which is the official end of the Kalalau trail. Alternatively, visitors can take a breathtaking helicopter tour along the Napali Coast and to the Wailua Falls and through the magnificent 3,500 foot deep Waimea Canyon, named by Mark Twain as the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific”.

Kauai itself offers more miles of beach than any of the other Hawaiian Islands – 90 miles in total. The area of Po-ipu has a number of top beaches and is also home to the monk seals which are in danger of extinction. A pleasurable afternoon spent is to drift up the Wailua River on a boat trip which takes you to the fern covered Fern Grotto and to soaring waterfalls. The Kilauea Point National Wildlife Refuge is a must for wildlife enthusiasts – here you can see migratory birds, seabirds and Humpback Whales, monk seals and spinner dolphins can also be seen from Kilauea Point.

The Kalalau Trail is waiting to be discovered. Thomas Cook offers a 14 night stay with flights staying at the Sheraton Kauai from £1,999 per person, from 1st – 30th June 2010. Visit http://www.tcsignature.com for more information