9 reasons to visit Kauai, Hawaii

1. The hammocks at Waimea Plantation Cottages
Hugging the shores of the Pacific Ocean, on the less hectic western coast of Kauai, are the historic Waimea Plantation Cottages. The settlement-turned-resort is a reconstructed sugar plantation with guests occupying their own historically preserved cottage. While amenities abound, the 'lost in a bygone era' feel is one of the resort's strongest draws. Strung between palm trees at the ocean's shores are the best hammocks you'll ever cozy up in. Enjoy a siesta in a hammock as the rhythm of the waves lull you to sleep.

2. Horseback riding through the dunes at Mahaulepu Beach
CJM Stables leads scenic rides that cut through Mahaulepu Beach, which is known for its sandy dunes, blue ocean bays and mountain vistas. Just imagine a leisurely trot over a sand bar with a balmy trade wind breeze at your back.

3. Shave ice
A signature treat throughout the Hawaiian Islands is shave ice, which is made by shaving a block of ice with an ultra-sharp blade. This produces ice as thin as frozen powder, which is then saturated with exotically flavoured sweet syrups ranging from old-fashioned strawberry to sweet Japanese azuki bean-flavour. Check out Wishing Well Shave Ice at the east end of Hanalei or Joe-Jo's Clubhouse in Waimea, which boasts 50-plus favours. If you’re in the mood for something decadent, ask for a rainbow shave ice atop macadamia nut ice cream.

4. Secret, secluded beaches
White sand beaches abound on the island. The Princeville Hotel beach at Hanalei Bay is great for swimming and snorkeling. From this beach you can also hop aboard a traditional Hawaiian canoe and head out for a sunset sail. The shorelines stretches almost three kilometres from the mouth of Hanalei River to Waikoko Reef so you never feel crowded. Kalihiwai Beach is great for surfing and Anini Beach has wonderful family-friendly appeal.

5. Filming sites of Kauai
Don't be surprised if you experience a sense of déjà vu in Kauai. There's a good chance you've seen its landmarks and landscapes on the big and small screen.

Parts of "The Thorn Birds" and "South Pacific" were filmed on the Napali coast of Kauai, and the island's north coast has surfaced in blockbusters such "Jurassic Park" and "Raiders of the Lost Ark." Locales eagerly point out where Elvis Presley stayed when shooting flicks such as "Blue Hawaii" and "Girls! Girls! Girls!" The three-tiered Wailua Falls, about 10 minutes from Lihue Airport, was famously featured in the TV series "Fantasy Island." Other popular movies filmed on the island include "Jurassic Park 3," "The Lost World,"  "Lord of the Flies," "Throw Mama from the Train," "Uncommon Valor" and "King Kong."

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