Travel Tips

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Kauaʻi Travel Tips

Kauaʻi's world-famous land- and seascapes aren't pristine by happy accident. This island's raw, rejuvenating natural beauty is maintained thanks to the wisdom of local culture that prizes our connection to the outdoors above all else. We share local secrets for keeping the Garden Island lush and untouched not only for the sake of the island, but because when visitors learn how to care for Kauaʻi the way we do, their time here is so much more rewarding.

Explore Kauaʻi Travel Tips

Kauaʻi Travel Tips: Travel Pono

“Travel pono” is more than just an expression meaning "travel righteously" in Kauaʻi. It’s a way of life. We can all be mindful of the way we treat the land – and when we are, it repays us with enrichment for generations without end. No one knows that better than cultural practitioner Sabra Kauka.

Kauaʻi Travel Tips: Ocean Safety

Everyone knows Kauaʻi has world-class, gorgeous beaches. But not everyone knows the best ways to stay safe in the water. Ocean safety expert Kalani Vierra lays out a few pointers we always follow when we hit the beach.

Kauaʻi Travel Tips: Culture

When you learn about another culture, you can learn just as much about yourself. You might find it easier to connect to the rhythm of your own relationship with nature after you hear from Kumu Hula (Hula Master) LeinaʻalaJardin, who shares how hula keeps the land - and a connection to her ancestors - alive.

Kauaʻi Travel Tips: Land Safety

Some of the world's most spectacular views await you at the end of Kauaʻi's trails. But locals know that to truly enjoy the rewards of hiking, we have to do more than just hit the trail. We make sure we are prepared, informed about current conditions and protective of the environment.

Rules of the Road

Kauaʻi's untouched beauty means that some rivers may only be crossed on one-lane bridges. Please follow the local practice of driving with aloha by alternating traffic every five vehicles, so drivers in both directions have a chance to traverse the bridge.

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Hāʻena State Park

New rules for Hāʻena State Park

Hāʻena State Park is one of Kauaʻi's natural wonders. After years of overuse, the community came together to implement a plan to protect this precious environment, with rules that limit the number and impact of visitors. For more information and to make a reservation to visit Hāʻena State Park, please visit gohaena.com.

Land Conservation

Saving ʻŌhiʻa

Clean your gear (Rapid ʻŌhiʻa Death) - ʻŌhiʻa, the most abundant native tree in the state of Hawaiʻi, are dying very quickly from a fungal disease called Rapid ʻŌhiʻa Death. It has been found in the areas of Lāwaʻi, Wailua and Anahola and all trees statewide are threatened by this disease. Please do your part and clean your hiking gear, especially footwear, before and after embarking on a hike to avoid spreading this catastrophic tree disease.

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Emergency Numbers

911

9-1-1 — Serious medical problem, fire, life-threatening situation or crime in progress. Be aware of your location.
9-1-1 (text) — Only text 9-1-1 if you are unable to make a voice call.

Non-Emergency

Non-Emergency (808) 241-1711 — Non-emergency, non-life-threatening. Kauaʻi Police Department

Crimestoppers

Crimestoppers (808) 246-8300 — Kauaʻi County Crime Stoppers – to provide anonymous tips.

Visitor Services

Visitor Services (808) 926-8274 - Visitor Aloha Society of Hawaiʻi - provides support services to visitors in need. Call for initial assistance until family and friends at home can be contacted.