New York City, New York

New York is an amazing city to visit as a tourist. I’ve been a handful of times now, and always look forward to it. There’s so much to do! But it’s also expensive.

Today, my friend & travel author Matt Kepnes shares tips for things to do in New York City on a budget after living there for many years. Tips are his, photos are mine. Here’s Matt:

New York is one of my favorite cities. In fact, I love it so much I lived there for close to five years. I can never get enough of it!

To me, NYC is the center of the world, with people, foods, and cultures from everywhere. It has a wild nightlife scene, and there’s a never-ending list of things to see, do, and experience.

You can never be bored in NYC. 

But, as awesome as it is, it can easily break the most hardened of budgets without proper planning.

Tourists often decry New York’s cost, but this is also place of starving artists and underpaid interns. To be a local is to know where the deals are. 

Despite what most people think, it’s actually possible to have a fun, budget-friendly trip to the Big Apple without breaking the bank — if you know where to look.

So, if you want to take it in without spending a fortune, here are the best things to do in New York on a budget:

1: Take A Free Walking Tour

The first thing I do in a new destination is take a walking tour. They’re the best way to orient yourself, see the main sights, and interact with an expert local guide who can answer all your questions. 

If you’re on a tight budget, I recommend Free Tours by Foot. Just make sure to tip your guide at the end!

For paid tours, go with Take Walks, which has specific ones that focus on art, food, and history; they are pretty affordable too (starting at $60 USD).

2: Wander Central Park

The heart of New York City, Central Park spans over 150 square blocks (840 acres). You can easily spend all day relaxing and wandering around. During the summer, there are often free concerts and theater productions (arrive early for tickets to Shakespeare in the Park).

From the late spring to the early fall, there also are free guided walks organized by the parks service on Saturdays. Central Park is the best place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. Bring a book, pack a lunch, and come lounge the day away. 

3: Walk The High Line

This is one of my favorite things to do in New York. Made from a converted elevated train track, the High Line is an urban walking park on the west side of town. The path stretches over twenty blocks (1.45 miles) and is extremely popular in the summer.

Lined with overlooks, gardens, public art, and food stalls, this linear park is one of the best things to do on a nice day. Just avoid the weekends, when it gets extra busy!

4: See The Statue Of Liberty

Visiting the Statue of Liberty up close will cost over $20 USD and involve waiting in a long line. If that doesn’t sound appealing, simply hop on the free Staten Island Ferry. It crosses the harbor and provides a decent view of both the Statue of Liberty and the Manhattan skyline. The ride takes about 25 minutes.

5: Visit Trinity Church

Built in 1698, Trinity was originally a small parish chapel constructed by the Church of England. When the British seized New York after George Washington’s retreat during the Revolutionary War, it was used as a British base of operations. In 1776, a massive fire swept through New York and consumed the original church (as well as 25% of the entire city). The new building was consecrated in 1790 and was regularly attended by George Washington and Alexander Hamilton. 

The graveyard has many a famous American buried in it, such as Hamilton and his wife Elizabeth, Francis Lewis (a signatory of the Declaration of Independence), John Alsop (a Continental Congress delegate), Horatio Gates (a Continental Army general), and Lord Stirling (also a Continental Army general).

6: See The 9/11 Memorial

The 9/11 Memorial was built to commemorate the nearly 3,000 people who died in the terror attacks of September 11, 2001. There are two massive reflecting pools where the Twin Towers once stood, along with the names of all the victims.

There is a museum as well, with all kinds of multimedia exhibits about the attacks, including survivor stories and artifacts. While the memorial is free, admission to the museum is $26 USD. 

7: Attend A Broadway Show For Cheap

You can’t go to Manhattan and not see a Broadway show, of which there is a wide variety, from modern musicals to Shakespeare to quirky, offbeat plays. There’s nothing better than live theater, as it’s such an integral part of life in New York.

If you’re on a budget, don’t settle for full-priced tickets. Instead, visit the TKTS booth in Times Square to get half-price tickets. You’ll need to wait in line, but you’ll save a ton!

8: Wander Times Square

As touristy as it is, no visit to NYC is complete without a stop at Times Square. No matter when you go, it will be packed with people (usually other tourists). If you aren’t shopping or eating or seeing a show, there isn’t much to do in the area (and no locals hang out there), but it’s still a neat place to people-watch and get a feel for just how vast and bustling the Big Apple is. 

9: Visit The Museum Of Modern Art

The Museum of Modern Art is home to some beautiful (and weird) modern art. Personally, I dislike that style (call me old-fashioned, but I just don’t get it), but the MoMA also has Van Gogh’s “Starry Night” as well as other impressionist and post-impressionist art. So, even if you’re not a modern-art fan, it’s still worth a visit.

And if you do love contemporary and modern art, this is (apparently) one of the best places in the world to experience it. To keep your budget afloat, on Fridays after 4pm, the museum is free!

More Free Museums In NYC

New York City is full of some of the best museums in the world. In addition to MoMA, many offer pay-what-you-wish entry on certain days of the week.

• Whitney Museum of American Art (Thursdays)
• The Guggenheim (Saturday Afternoons)
• Cooper-Hewitt National Museum of Design (Saturday Nights)

10: Relax In Battery Park

Battery Park is where the Dutch built Fort Amsterdam in 1625 to defend their settlement. Located on the southern tip of Manhattan, the fort’s cannon battery (hence the name) wasn’t used until 1776, when American forces seized it after declaring independence.

The fort was destroyed during the Revolutionary War; however, the battery was expanded afterward. Today, there are over 20 monuments and plaques in the park, covering everything from the War of 1812 to the War of Independence to immigration and much more.

11: Visit The Bronx Zoo

Admission to the Bronx Zoo is free on Wednesdays at one of the oldest and biggest zoos in the United States. Opened in 1899 and now welcoming over 2 million visitors each year, it encompasses almost 300 acres and is home to over 650 different species, including gorillas, birds of prey, tigers, elephants, anacondas, bison, and much more! It’s a great place to visit, especially with kids.

12: Attend A TV Show Taping

If you’re planning your trip in advance, try getting tickets to a TV taping. Shows like Saturday Night Live, The View, Late Night with Stephen Colbert, The Daily Show, Last Week Tonight, and Late Night with Jimmy Fallon all offer free tickets.

But they need to be reserved in advance, as there is a limited number, so be sure to submit requests for multiple shows to increase your chances of securing one or more. See each show’s website for details and to make reservations.

13: See Federal Hall

Federal Hall is one of the most overlooked museums in town. Originally built in 1700, it is where George Washington took his oath of office (you can see the Bible he was sworn in on). It was also the site of the US Customs House in the late 1700s and was the first capitol building of the United States.

The original building was demolished in 1812; the current one dates to 1842. I especially love the old vaults. Best of all, admission is free!

14: Walk The Brooklyn Bridge

The Brooklyn Bridge is one of the world’s most iconic sights. It offers an easy 25-minute stroll into (or out of) Brooklyn, though expect to spend closer to 40 minutes if you stop to snap photos. You’ll get a wonderful panorama of Manhattan as you make your way across — especially if you go at night when the skyline is all lit up. (There are fewer crowds then too.)

15: Explore Grand Central Terminal

Aside from being a transit hub, Grand Central is also a landmark and an attraction unto itself. The main concourse is 88,000 square feet, which on sunny days is bathed in sunlight from its giant arching windows.

The terminal’s 12-story-high ceiling is painted with stars and gilded zodiac constellations. This station also has incredible food and drink options, including its famous oyster bar and The Campbell Bar (a cocktail bar). 

Extra Money-Saving Tips For NYC

To help you save a few extra bucks during your visit to New York City, here are some money-saving tips to keep your budget under control:

• Get a MetroCard -You’ll be taking the subway a lot in New York, and fares can add up. Get an unlimited MetroCard and save yourself a bundle. A week’s pass pays for itself after 11 trips, which you can easily make, even if you are only visiting for a few days.
• Hit happy hours -NYC is awash in $1-2 oyster happy hours, $4 drink specials, bottomless brunches, and much, much more. Some of my favorite spots include: The Mermaid Inn, Jeffery’s Grocery, Carroll Place, Ofrenda, and The Frying Pan.
• Eat cheap – Between the food carts, dollar-a-slice pizza shops (literally $1 for a cheese slice), kebab joints, and ethnic eateries, you can eat really affordably in New York. Some of my favorites are The Dead Rabbit (cheap oyster happy hours), Percy’s Pizza ($1 slices), Noodle Q (Chinese food in big portions), and Gray’s Papaya (cheap hotdogs).
• Get a discount pass -If you’re planning on seeing a lot of the main attractions, get a discount pass. The CityPASS, the Explorer Pass, and the New York Pass all offer discounts to the main sights, such as the Empire State Building, Top of the Rock (the observatory at Rockefeller Center), the 9/11 Museum, the Met, and more. Passes start around $100 USD, so you’ll need to make sure you’re going to see a lot to get your money’s worth. 
• Embrace the sharing economy -NYC has a huge Couchsurfing community. As long as you send your request well in advance, you shouldn’t have a problem finding someone to host you for a couple of days. This will drastically cut down on your accommodation costs. If staying with a stranger isn’t your cup of tea, there are also plenty of fun, cheap hostels too.

While it’s an expensive destination, there are tons of free and cheap things to do in New York that won’t blow your budget.

Follow the list of above, fill your days (and nights) with fun, and leave with memories…and not an empty wallet. ★

This is a post from The Expert Vagabond adventure blog.

Key west, Florida

The highlight of the Florida Keys Islands, Key West is situated at the very end of Florida’s Overseas Highway. Here’s what to do in Key West to have an amazing trip.

Popular for its sunny days, quirky residents, wild nightlife, pastel colored homes, and beautiful coral reefs — driving the Florida Keys from Miami to Key West on the Overseas Highway is one of America’s classic road trips.

First explored by Ponce de Leon in 1521, Key West became a US territory in 1822, and has since been an island home to greats like Ernest Hemingway and Tennessee Williams.

The self-proclaimed Conch Republic is probably the best known island of the Florida Keys. After multiple trips to the Florida Keys, I’ve found that there are many cool things to do in Key West that most people miss…

If you’re planning to spend some time in Key West, I wanted to recommend some of my favorite fun and unusual things to do, no matter what time of year you visit.

My Key West itinerary is completely free! I’ve worked hard putting it together for you. If you find it useful, please use my affiliate links when you book hotels, rental cars or activities. I’ll get paid a small commission, at no extra cost to you! Thanks.

Best Things To Do In Key West Guide

1: Ernest Hemingway House & Cats

Built in 1851 in the French Colonial style, the home of the famous author Ernest Hemingway is located near the Key West Lighthouse at 907 Whitehead Street. It was turned into a museum after his passing and designated a National Historic Landmark in 1968.

Hemingway owned a polydactyl (six-toed) cat named Snow White, given to him by a ship’s captain. These days the house is full of 6-toed cat descendants which can be seen lounging around the grounds!

Visiting the house, seeing some of Hemingway’s old stuff (like his typewriter!) along with these funny cats with six toes is one of the most popular things to do in Key West.

2: Climb The Key West Lighthouse

Built in 1848, visiting the Key West Lighthouse and climbing up the 88 steps to check out the view is one of the top things to do in the Keys. When it first opened with a female lighthouse keeper in the 19^th century, it was quite a rarity.

While it hasn’t been used as a functioning lighthouse since 1969, the museum stands testament to the maritime heritage of the island. And you can visit the Keeper quarters which are now home to a museum.

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3: Take A Sunset Sailing Cruise

One of the most popular activities to do in Key West is book a sunset sailing cruise, and have a few drinks while sailing around the harbor and watching one of Key West’s legendary colorful sunsets.

You can join a large catamaran style party boat, or charter a private experience on a smaller sailing yacht. Either way, it’s a worthwhile experience. Some of the best sunsets I’ve ever seen, like in my photo above, were here in Key West!

Sunset Sailing Cruise

Watch the sunset over Key West from the deck of an elegant sailing yacht. Drinks included!

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4: Ride The Conch Tour Train

This world famous train starts at Front Street Depot and the train engineers try to delight guests with popular legends and stories on a 75-minute journey through Old Town Key West.

Running since 1958, the Conch Train Tour is one of the most popular things to do in Florida Keys. It’s a bit cheesy, but you learn a lot about the history of the area, and get a feel for the island and how to get around.

5: Eat Like A Local

Florida is the home some delicious food like fresh oranges, Key Lime Pie, Conch Fritters, Stone Crabs, Dole Whips, and fried Gator Bites. Which is why you can’t skip eating any of these popular foods while in Key West. 

Some great restaurants in Key West you’ll definitely want to check out include:

• Sloppy Joe’s
• The Green Parrot
• Louie’s Backyard
• Blue Heaven
• Schooner Wharf
• Cuban Coffee Queen
• Bo’s Fish Wagon
• Better Than Sex Desserts

And make sure you don’t miss the Key Lime Pie Company. Or just take one of the local Key West Food Tours that give you a taste of seafood and Cuban food at the old ‘mom and pop’ type eateries. 

Key West Food tour

Explore the intoxicating flavors of Key West’s food. Sample the island’s best while guided by a local foodie.

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6: Check Out Fort Zachs Beach

Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park, locally called Fort Zachs or Fort Taylor is a historic landmark from the Civil War era named after US President Zachary Taylor.  

Built between 1845 and 1866, the fort is home to excavated armaments and other Civil War exhibits. It’s also home to a beach that’s perfect for snorkeling and a large park covering 54 acres.

Other popular beaches in Key West include:

• Smathers Beach is the largest Key West beach at half a mile long, it’s also the most crowded, but perfect for water sports and biking.
• Higgs Beach is where you’ll find the African Refugee Cemetery. 294 refugees were buried here after being rescued from slave ships in the 1860’s.
• Rest Beach (or CB Harvey Memorial Rest Beach) is a 300-yard strip of beach backed by some sand dunes and vegetation. Parking is free, and there’s shade!

7: Bar Hopping Duval Street 

If you ready to party and experience Key West’s famous nightlife, Duval Street in Downtown is where to go. This popular street in Key West Downtown is filled with local shops, restaurants, bars and live-music clubs.

One of the most popular tourist activities in Key West is spending time bar hopping on Duval Street. The nightlife here is legendary, with amazing live music and some weird & funky bars.

• Sloppy Joe’s Bar was a favorite hangout for Ernest Hemingway. First called the Blind Pig, then the Silver Slipper, it opened on December 5th, 1933 — the same day prohibition ended in the United States.
• The Green Parrot
• Schooner Wharf
• Bull & Whistle Bar (Garden of Eden)
• Bourbon St. Bar
• Hog’s Breath Saloon
• Captain Tony’s Saloon

Key West Pub Crawl

Party on famous Duval Street in Key West. Visit 5 pubs with a cocktail scheduled at each stop, a great way to make new friends!

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8: Mile Marker Zero

You can’t visit Key West without stopping to get your photo (along with thousands of other people) with the Mile Marker 0, which marks the end of the 2,369 mile long US 1 Highway.

Stretching from upper Maine to Key West, US 1, known locally as the Overseas Highway, connects most major cities in the eastern U.S. The highway officially starts here, in Key West!

9: Harry S Truman Little White House

Built in 1890 and located in the Truman Annex section of Old Town, the house has been home to President William Taft, and later a vacation home to President Truman. Even Thomas Edison stayed here while contributing to the WWI efforts. 

The house has also hosted the likes of General Eisenhower, President Kennedy, President Carter, Colin Powell, President Clinton, and more. Nicknamed as Florida’s only Presidential Museum, you’ll be able to see many historic records and photos. 

10: Dry Tortugas National Park

About 109 km west of Key West, seven islands form Dry Tortugas National Park. It’s home to beautiful coral reefs, abundant sea life, tropical birds, and some submarine banks. It was named Tortugas by Ponce the Leon in the 16^th century because of the number of turtles or ‘tortugas’ found on the islands. 

The highlight of the park is the unfinished Fort Jefferson, that covers 16 acres on Garden Key and is made of over 16 million bricks. The park is a great place to go picnicking, swimming, diving, snorkeling, boating, bird watching, or walking.

To get here, most people take the Yankee Freedom III high speed ferry from Key West. But if you’re looking for an even more unique adventure, arriving by seaplane is also an option!

Dry Tortugas Day Trip

Take a boat over to Dry Tortugas National Park, and spend the day swimming, snorkeling, or sunbathing in the crystal clear waters.

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11: Mel Fisher Maritime Heritage Museum

The Mel Fisher Maritime Museum features exhibits on piracy and the slave trade, along with a collection of artifacts from 17^th century shipwrecks of the Spanish slave ship Henrietta Marie and the treasure ship Nuestra Señora de Atocha.

Artifacts from other ships such as the Guerrero & Nimble, Santa Margarita, and Santa Clara are also present. The onsite conservation lab also offers tours showing how items recovered from wrecks and other artifacts are preserved. It’s pretty cool!

12: Sunset Parties At Mallory Square

Mallory Square is another popular hangout in Key West. It’s perfect for shopping for crafts and souvenirs, or relishing food at the local eateries. 

Every evening there is a sunset celebration where crowds gather to watch some of the best sunsets ever over the Gulf of Mexico.

Try to get to the square about two hours before sunset to watch live performances from musicians, clowns, magicians, jugglers and other artists from across the globe. 

13: Visit The Southernmost Point Buoy 

The line to get photos at this red, yellow and black colored buoy are pretty long. Why? This concrete “buoy” is the Southernmost point in the continental USA, and everyone wants evidence that they’ve been here. Go really early to skip the lines. 

The signage on the buoy reads “The Conch Republic, 90 Miles to Cuba, Southernmost Point Continental U.S.A., Key West, F.L., Home of the Sunset”.

Key West Walking Tour

See Key West through the eyes of a local as you visit some of the island’s most popular sites and learn about its rich history.

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14: First Legal Rum Distillery

Originally started as Jack’s Saloon in the year 1900, the people at Key West First Legal Rum Distillery consider themselves chefs first and distillers second. Apart from “Chef Distilled” rums, they also sell mouth-watering rum cakes. Take a tour here to taste their Cuban Coffee Rum, Vanilla Brûlée Dark Rum, and the famous Key West First Legal Rum. 

Other rum distilleries you can visit include the Papa’s Pilar Rum Distillery to taste Papa’s Pilar, the rum that Hemingway drank; and the Key West Trading Co for their famed Temple Pent’s Revenge Blacklisted Rum. 

15: Attend Key West Fantasy Fest

Fantasy Fest is a weird and wild annual costume festival held in Key West that attracts thousands of people every year. I attended a few years ago, and it was one of my favorite festivals ever!

It’s basically a 10-day costume party that’s like a combination of Burning Man, Mardi Gras, and Halloween on a tropical island. Body painting and elaborate costumes are on show, along with a lot of skin… its definitely an adult celebration.

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16: Visit The Key West Aquarium 

The Key West Aquarium is home to many species of fish, alligators, sting rays, jelly fish, turtles, and sharks. If you’re traveling with kids, the Touch Tank has sessions where the kids can pet conchs, sea stars, slate pencil sea urchins, sea cucumbers, giant hermit crabs and horseshoe crabs.

Aquarium Tickets

Get a hands-on experience like never before as you see, feel and touch amazing animals at the Key West Aquarium.

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17: Key West Tropical Forest & Botanical Garden

The only “frost-free” tropical garden in the US, the Key West Tropical Forest & Garden also serves as a wildlife refuge and arboretum. Called the “keeper of the trees”, it opened in 1936 and covers 63 hectares on Stock Island.

You can stroll through 2 butterfly habitats and 2 wetland habitats, and see exotic trees and tropical as well as subtropical plants, neo-tropical birds, and other rare finds. 

18: Explore The Historic Seaport 

A sailor’s delight, the Key West Historic Seaport is home to hundreds of yachts and boats. The marina is full of shopping stores and restaurants such as the Schooner Wharf where you can enjoy a meal.

There are also rental stores where you can rent boats for whale watching, cruising, sailing, or hire equipment for fishing, parasailing, jet skis. It’s a lively place, and well worth spending some time wandering around.

19: Go Snorkeling Or Scuba Diving!

Right beside Key West you’ll find the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary, making it wonderful destination for snorkeling and scuba diving. Scuba diving is a big deal around here, and many divers come down specifically to dive the famous Shipwreck Trail.

The Shipwreck Trail includes 9 historic shipwrecks scattered along the coral reefs and buried in the sand a few miles off shore. The best snorkeling in Key West can’t be done from the beach, you’ll need to book a boat to take you out to the local offshore reefs.

Snorkeling Around Key West

Go snorkeling from a sailboat at some of Key West’s best spots, and maybe see some wild dolphins!

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20: Fort East Martello Museum & Gardens

The Fort East Martello Museum opened in 1862 and displays exhibits of military effects, Cuban and early settlement artifacts, sponging  and fishing exhibits, junk art by Stanley Papio, and local folk art. 

The museum is also home to the haunted Robert the Doll which used to belong to eccentric artist Robert Eugene Otto. The doll is said to have moved voodoo figurines around a room, caused car accidents, broken bones, and other misfortunes. 

If you’re truly up for a challenge, go on one of the Haunted Museum and Civil War fort ghost tours.

21: The Oldest House In Florida

Called the Oldest House in South Florida, it was built in 1829 by Captain Francis Watlington, a famous wrecker. Wrecking is the practice of taking valuables from shipwrecks, which there were many of around Key West.

These days the home is a museum that showcases life in the 19th century through portraits and furnishings as well as colonial architecture found in the Caribbean. At one time, Key West was the richest city in the United States!

22: Nancy Forrester’s Secret Garden

Key West local Nancy Forrester has been rescuing and caring for orphaned parrots for 35 years in her backyard garden. Visitors can interact with, feed, and pet the bright and colorful parrots and other birds while learning more about them.

23: Key West Butterfly & Nature Conservatory

The Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory is home to about 60 species of butterflies and 20 species of exotic birds. Walk through a magical and inviting environment filled with hundreds of the most beautiful winged creatures in nature (including pink flamingos!)

Their “Wings of Imagination” art exhibit offers original works by artist Sam Trophia. Acrylic shadow boxes depict the butterfly’s beauty preserved and suspended in art form in a spectrum of colors, shapes and sizes.

24: Ghost Hunting In Key West!

Key West is filled with ghost stories. From lost lovers to ghastly murders, the island has a long history of haunted tales. The most famous is probably Robert The Doll. A gift from a Bahamian servant skilled in voodoo, this doll is said to have turned over furniture, screams, and talks.

Captain Tony’s Saloon has a long history of death. The former site of a morgue, the building has seen many hurricane deaths, and the tree growing in the middle of the bar has been used for 17 hangings. They say a Lady in Blue, who was hung from this tree, still haunts the Saloon to this day.

Key West Ghost Tours

Climb aboard the Trolley of the Doomed for a spooky evening tour of Key West’s dark side. Guided by an actual gravedigger!

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Transportation Around Key West

Most people get to Key West by driving down from Miami, Florida. It’s an awesome little road trip on the overseas highway through multiple islands in the Florida Keys. However there is also a ferry, as well as a small airport.

Rental Car

The best site to book your car is with Discover Cars. They search both local and national car rental companies to help you find the best possible price. This is the easiest way to rent a car and drive down to Key West from Miami.

Renting a car offers the best flexibility to explore more remote and less touristy spots in the Florida Keys. It’s my favorite way to get around!

Taxi Or Uber

You can book taxis in Key West using Uber, Lyft, or TaxiASAP.

Walking

The main attractions in Key West are very close to each other, with most of them within a 2 mile radius of Old Town. So you could get almost everywhere walking. 

Bike

If you don’t want to take a cab, but don’t want to walk either, bicycles are the perfect answer. The most popular variety are the one-speed bikes locally known as Conch Cruisers. 

Pedi-Cabs

These bicycle rickshaws are often seen in Old Town areas, but are a tad expensive at about $1.50 a minute. 

Trolley

There are trolleys that run through different areas in Key West and cost above $20 for a day-pass. 

Duval Loop

Run by the city, these pink and blue colored buses circle historic stops in the Old Town quarter and are free to hop on and off. 

Where To Stay In Key West

Key West has tons of accommodation options available for tourists, everything from budget backpacker hostels to luxury hotels. Below you’ll find suggestions for good places to stay during your trip to Key West depending on your budget.

Key West Travel Tips & Advice

• Pick up a Key West Sightseeing Flex pass for deals on water sports activities like jet skiing and paragliding.
• Download the Florida Stories App created by the Florida Humanities Council and take one of their free walking tours around the island.
• If you need one, pick up a free paper map of Key West from any of the Visit Florida tourist centers.
• Try to avoid traveling to Key West during Spring Break – usually March and April. Unless you want to deal with drunken college students creating havoc.

This is a post from The Expert Vagabond adventure blog.

Kauai, Hawaii

While the garden island of Kauai is certainly a lush green tropical paradise, it also boasts a massive red & orange canyon called Waimea — the Grand Canyon of the Pacific.

Waimea Canyon is not the kind of landscape most people associate with the islands of Hawaii. Stretching 14 miles long, one mile wide, and around 3,600 feet deep — it’s quite impressive.

One of the reasons Kauai is my favorite Hawaiian Island is because of the diversity of things to do there. You could easily spend a whole day just visiting the different viewpoints and hiking trails in Waimea Canyon State Park if you wanted to!

The Grand Canyon Of The Pacific

Carved by the Waimea River over millions of years, the canyon’s name means “Reddish Waters” in Hawaiian. The river water is stained red/orange by the canyon’s red, eroding volcanic walls.

While much smaller than Arizona’s famous Grand Canyon, the views are equally impressive — which led writer Mark Twain to nickname the area “The Grand Canyon of the Pacific” after he saw it for the first time.

Waimea Canyon Lookout Points

Red Dirt Waterfall – To the right, Waimea Canyon opens up below. To the left is a quirky little waterfall pouring over red volcanic dirt with a few short trails.

Hohonu Awawa Lookout – The first large established platform overlooking Waimea Canyon State Park.

Waimea Canyon Lookout – This lookout probably has the best view of the canyon. They’ve built a large viewing platform here.

Pu’u Ka Pele Lookout – One of the best viewpoints of Waipo’o Waterfall.

Pu’u Hinahina Lookout – A final stop that gives you some more great views, with a slightly different perspective. Also the start of the popular Canyon Hiking Trail which I mention below.

Kalalau & Puu O Kila Lookouts – These aren’t technically part of Waimea Canyon, they are located in Kokee State Park a few miles further North. Just make sure to keep driving and check out these incredible viewpoints of the famous Na Pali Coast!

Waimea Canyon Hiking Trails

Iliau Nature Loop – A short 1/4 mile loop hike that showcases some of the area’s plant life and bird watching. Keep an eye out for the local Iliau Plant! If it’s in bloom, you’re super lucky.

Kukui Trail – This trail takes you down to the river at the very bottom of the canyon. It’s steep, and can get very treacherous when wet due to the red clay. Recommended for experienced hikers who might want to camp at one of the campgrounds at the bottom of the canyon.

Canyon Trail (Waipoo Falls) – This hike takes you to the top of Waipoo Falls, the stunning 800 foot waterfall you see as you drive along the canyon rim. Standing at the top isn’t the best place to be for a photo of this waterfall, however the hike still has great views, and only takes about an hour round-trip.

Flying Over The Canyon

Another cool way to experience the immensity of Waimea Canyon is flying through it in a helicopter! The gorge is often part of island helicopter tours, and whipping through the canyon, especially with the doors off, is pretty amazing.

Flying up close to the massive Waipoo Falls was fantastic, and our pilot flew super close to the canyon walls, which was quite a thrill too.

Getting to Waimea Canyon State Park

There are two routes for driving up to Waimea Canyon from the town of Waimea — Waimea Canyon Drive or Kokee Road (Highway 550). They eventually meet before you enter the canyon rim, so it really doesn’t matter which you choose.

Entrance into Waimea Canyon State Park is free (no permit required), however there may be a fee for parking in certain popular areas near viewpoints.

Useful Tips For Visiting Waimea Canyon

• The temperature gets much cooler on the high canyon rim. Bring a rain jacket or windbreaker. Wear shoes with traction to handle rocky, muddy terrain.
• Parking spots at lookout points can fill up fast, as it’s a popular tourist destination. Try to arrive early, before 9am if possible.
• How much time do you need to explore? I’d set aside at least half a day, but if you want to do a bunch of hikes, you could easily spend a full day here.
• After exploring Waimea Canyon’s trails, continue driving North and visit Kokee State Park. If the weather’s good, you’ll have awesome views looking down on the Na Pali coastline!

READ MORE HAWAII TRAVEL TIPS

I hope you enjoyed my guide to Waimea Canyon on Kauai! Hopefully you found it useful. Here are a few more wanderlust-inducing articles that I recommend you read next:

• 30 Best Things To Do On Kauai
• Experience A Helicopter Tour Over Kauai
• Planning Your Trip To The Big Island
• Island Hopping Around Hawaii

Have you ever heard of Waimea Canyon? What’s your favorite Hawaiian Island? Join the conversation on Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter to share!

This is a post from The Expert Vagabond adventure blog.

Kauai, Hawaii

The Hawaiian island of Kauai is the perfect place for active travelers looking to escape to a tropical paradise. Here are some of the best things to do in Kauai during your visit!

Not as touristy as Oahu and much smaller than The Big Island — Kauai is actually one of the oldest islands in the Hawaiian chain.

The lush wet landscapes and unique wildlife on Kauai has earned it the nickname “The Garden Isle”.

You can explore dense jungles with rare orchids and other flowers. Trek along steep cliffs for breathtaking views. Then sip Mai-tais and snack on the best poke bowl you’ve ever had while watching monk seals sunbathing!

If you’re planning to visit Hawaii soon, I wanted to recommend a few fun and unusual things to do on Kauai, no matter what time of year you’re there.

Kauai Highlights Map

HOW TO USE THIS MAP: Above you’ll find a map of Kauai’s highlights. Click on the top left of the map to find separate layers marking the route and points of interest. You can hide and show different layers, or click icons on the map to see the names of places I mention in this travel guide. “Star” the map to save it to your own Google Maps, or open the map in a new window for a larger version. Enjoy!

Best Things To Do In Kauai Guide

1. Kayak The Wailua River

Kauai’s Wailua River weaves 20 miles through the lush Wailua River Valley. Paddle your way into the center of the island, passing by waterfalls and ruins of old Hawaiian temples, called heiau, along the way.

Many tour operators run through here, but you can also rent a kayak, SUP, or outrigger canoe from your resort or Airbnb host for a self-guided excursion, which is what I did.

If you aren’t up for a trip on the river itself, you can also get a great view overlooking a dramatic bend in the river from the Wailua River Overlook.

Kauai Kayaking Adventure

Join a kayaking adventure tour on Kauai, with professional photos and lunch included.

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2. Waimea Canyon (Hawaii’s Grand Canyon)

Drive to Kauai’s west side for some great hiking and photo opportunities through beautiful Waimea Canyon, nicknamed the Grand Canyon of the Pacific. This unique red and green volcanic formation is 10 miles long, 1 mile wide, and 3,500 feet deep.

High elevations mean the temperature changes noticeably from the bottom as you head to the top. So bring a rain jacket or windbreaker. Wear hiking boots with lots of traction to handle the rocky, muddy terrain.

Even if you aren’t a hiker, driving along the canyon walls and stopping at lookout spots is super fun. Keep in mind that parking at popular areas can fill up fast, so try to arrive early, before 9 AM.

➜ Read My Waimea Canyon Travel Guide Here

Kauai Hiking Trip

Hike along Waimea Canyon to the stunning Napali Coast via Kōkeʻe State Park on the cliffs above the ocean.

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3. Explore The Nāpali Coast

A must on your Kauai travel itinerary is to see the Nāpali Coast State Wilderness Park, with one of the most recognizable coastlines in the world. Defined by spectacular green mountains that rise dramatically from the ocean.

There are a few ways to enjoy this coastline: by land, sea, or air.

The Kalalau Trail

Advanced hikers with their own gear can attempt an 11 mile hiking adventure along the famous Kalalau Trail, which involves some overnight camping. The trek can get intense and requires a special permit at least a day in advance through the Hawaiian Park’s website.

Sail The Coastline

Get an up close view of the Nāpali coast on a sailing catamaran boat. Dolphins sometimes play alongside the catamaran, and most boats offer snorkeling too. Keep an eye out for humpback whales breaching during peak whale watching season, December through April. A great way to see the coastline!

Napali Sailing Trip

Set sail along Kauai’s majestic Napali Coast on a custom sailing catamaran to witness the beauty of Kauai.

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Napali Helicopter Tour

Finally, although pricey, a Kauai helicopter tour gives you a 360 bird’s-eye view of the lush greenery and cascading waterfalls of Na Pali. For the adventurous, they even offer open-door flights! This is what we did — it was amazing.

Napali Coast By Air

Enjoy Kauai from above in a private luxury airplane. Get views of Waimea Canyon, the Napali Coast, and more.

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4. Cool Off With Hawaiian Shave Ice

No visit to Kauai is complete without a stop at the famous Kalalea Juice Hale for some classic Hawaiian Shave Ice. You can also pick up all kinds of fresh organic juices, or a tasty Acai Bowl to get recharged for the rest of your day.

Hale (pronounced HA-leh,) means house, and this bright orange building sits right under Kalalea Mountain (aka King Kong Mountain). Shave ice is a staple dessert in Hawaii, with little shacks selling the tasty treat in every town. Not to be confused with a snow-cone, which is crushed ice (rather than shaved).

Kauai Food tour

Embark on a tasting adventure through Kauai’s vibrant neighborhoods and visit local foodie hot spots.

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5. Hiking In Kokee State Park

After visiting Waimea Canyon, keep driving North and you’ll end up in Kokee State Park. This is basically the backside of the Na Pali, where you can look down on the coast from high in the mountains.

Kokee has a bunch of cool hiking trails and lookout points to explore. Some notable ones include the popular Kalalau Valley Lookout, Kalepa Ridge Trail, Puu O Kila Lookout, plus there are campsites in the park too.

Because parts of the park sit above 4000 feet, it’s much cooler than other parts of the island, and gets a lot of rain too. So make sure to bring a rain jacket!

Kauai Hiking Trip

Hike along Waimea Canyon to the stunning Napali Coast via Kōkeʻe State Park on the cliffs above the ocean.

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6. Meditate At Kauai’s Hindu Temple

Between the jagged peaks, pristine beaches, and abundant wildlife, a visit to Kauai feels a bit like a spiritual experience in and of itself. Which makes the Kauai Hindu Temple a perfect addition to this tropical paradise.

The hand sculpted, white granite Iraivan temple overlooks the banks of the Wailua River before a backdrop of the Kapa Mountains. About 35-40 minutes from Kukui‘ula, people from all walks of life come to admire the peaceful scenery and impressive architecture.

The temple features a rare 700-pound quartz crystal and impressive granite sculpture of the six-faced deity, Lord Shanmuga, standing in front of a giant banyan tree. The monastery asks that guests dress modestly by wearing loose fitting attire and covering legs and arms.

7. Swim At Tunnels Beach

Probably my favorite beach on Kauai, Tunnels Beach (Makua in Hawaiian) on the North Shore is a wonderful place to go snorkeling or scuba diving. It has a very large and shallow reef full of colorful fish.

However the real highlight at Tunnels is the very dramatic jagged green mountains in the background. If you want that perfect Hawaiian postcard photo for Instagram, this is the place to get it!

The parking sucks though, and spots fill up quickly, so get there early or you’ll have to park half-a-mile away. Waves get big and rough here in the winter, so the snorkeling gets dangerous (but it’s great if you want to watch pro surfers).

8. Visit Famous Jurassic Park Falls

Movie fans will recognize Kauai from the iconic scene of Jurassic Park, when the helicopter lands at the base of a cascading waterfall. You can recreate the cinematic experience by taking a chopper tour to Manawaiopuna Falls.

Some special helicopter tours will even land here and let you walk around, but because it’s located in a very remote part of Kauai’s Hanapēpē Valley, the only way to see this dramatic waterfall is via helicopter.

9. Eat A Hawaiian Poke Bowl

Poke is my favorite Hawaiian food, and I even learned how to make fresh ahi-tuna poke with a professional chef once. So whenever I visit Hawaii, I can’t resist a chance to eat plenty of this diced raw fish Hawaiian cuisine.

I usually go for the traditional style made with sashimi grade ahi tuna, sweet onions, soy sauce, sesame oil, chopped macadamia nuts, and scallions. It’s sooooo good! You can find it at many restuarants and some dedicated food trucks on Kauai.

I suggest heading to some of the local markets, like in The Ishihara Market in Waimea, which some consider the best poke joint on the island. Try a mix of fish flavored with shoyu, citrus, and spicy mayo. You can even find quality poke at the island’s grocery stores too.

Kauai Food tour

Embark on a tasting adventure through Kauai’s vibrant neighborhoods and visit local foodie hot spots.

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10. Surfing At Hanalei Bay

Beautiful mountains overlook coconut palms and a sparking surf at Hanalei Bay. This laid back, surfer town is known for its art galleries, beaches, great food, and live music venues.

The crescent shaped beach inspired the 1960’s folk song Puff the Magic Dragon, based on the legendary sleeping dragon in the mountains that protects the bay. If you plan to hit the waves, the surf can get intense, so make sure to check advisories.

Cool off on a hot day at the Aloha Juice Bar Hanalei with a Reefer Smoothie made of blended strawberry, mango, banana, and guava. At night, head over to Tahiti Nui to dine on Tahitian cuisine, listen to nightly live music, and sip mai tais.

While in the area, also check out Hanalei Valley Lookout in Princeville to admire the green taro fields, one of the most photographed areas on the island.

11. Kīlauea Point Lighthouse

Just a 20 minute drive from Hanalei Bay sits Kilauea, a tiny historic town on the island’s northeastern shore. Escape from the crowds for snorkeling, swimming, and windsurfing at exclusive beaches like Kauapea (Secret’s Beach), Anini Beach, or Ka‘aka‘aniu (Larsen’s Beach) in Kīlauea.

The town grew up around a sugar plantation from the late 1800s and attracted migrant workers from countries from Portugal to Japan. Experience the cultural heritage at the Kong Lung Historic Market Center which hosts uniquely local art exhibitions, restaurants, and craft vendors.

You’ll also spot the 52-foot Daniel K. Inouye Kīlauea Point Lighthouse. Built in 1913, the lighthouse has become a part of the Kīlauea Point National Wildlife Refuge, a haven for the island’s many rare bird species.

12. Watch A Hula Dance Performance

For thousands of years, hula dance has been a part of Hawaiian culture. The dance tells the history of Hawaiian people through movement, often with slow, sentimental music or lively beats.

Rumor has it that the dance may originate from Kauai, and you can catch an authentic show during a visit. Dancers perform at many of the resorts. But for a truly authentic experience, visit Keahualaka Heiau, an area dedicated to Laka, the goddess of hula, just around the corner from the Kalalau trailhead.

Another popular spot to watch a hula performance is the Grand Hyatt Resort Kauai if you happen to be staying there.

Luau Kalamaku Experience

A traditional Luau featuring graceful Hula dancers, fire dancing, buffet of local delicacies and vivid storytelling.

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13. Sunbathe At Poipu Beach

Listed as the Travel Channel’s Top 10 Beaches In The World, Poipu Beach sits on the island’s south side. Nicknamed “the sunny side of paradise”, this is a haven for aquatic wildlife like seals, whales, dolphins, and giant sea turtles.

On an island with mostly rocky beaches, Poipu Beach welcomes sunbathers with its sandy shores. Poipu actually consists of two beaches, split in the middle by a narrow sand bar. To the left: calm, shallow waters offer a spot ideal for families with kids. Small swells to the right side invite body boarders and beginner surfers to hit the waves.

The west facing beaches give perfect views of the sunset over the water. Rent a surfboard or snorkel for the day. You might even catch one of the beach natives: a Hawaiian monk seal.

Poipu Beach Surf Lessons

Pick up some wave-riding skills, gain awareness of the ocean, and improve your surfing ability.

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13. Cliff Jumping At Shipwreck’s Beach

Not far from Poipu, make sure to stop by Shipwreck’s Beach (no, not the one in Greece) located next to The Grand Hyatt Kauai. This rocky beach earned its name after an old wooden ship sank off the coast many years ago. It’s also access the start of the Mahaulepu Heritage Trail, a hiking route that explores the coastline.

The beach itself is full of local surfers, which can be fun to watch if you don’t surf. There’s also a large 40 foot cliff nearby that’s used for cliff jumping. However it’s not a great spot for beginners, as the waves can get rough and the swim back to shore after jumping is pretty long. Be very careful!

14. Visit Queen’s Bath

On Kauai’s north shore in Princeville sits the Queen’s Bath, a rocky tide pool surrounded by black lava rock. The hereditary rulers of Hawaii, called ali’i, would come to these sacred waters to bathe.

If you plan to visit, be very careful: the turbulent tide pools and strong waves make this a dangerous place for swimming. Rouge waves have been known to knock people off the rocks too — there’s a sign listing all the drownings. Bring proper footwear and keep your guard up.

15. Sample The Food Trucks

The food truck scene is a must during a visit to Kauai to enjoy the local cuisine, at a bargain. You can try them all over the island, but the charming town of Kapaa stands out as one the best spots to feast on food trucks.

Like Nixtamal Kauai, a Kapaa favorite serving Mexican street food and seafood. Known for their tamales served with spicy habanero salsa, the chicken tamale contains shredded machaca marinated chicken with roasted green chile.

Or try the refreshing Shave Ice Tege Tege serving hand cranked shaved ice mixed with condensed milk and local mango, dragon fruit, and passion fruit.

16. Hanapepe’s Historic Art Walk

Take a break from the sunshine with an artistic evening in Hanapepe. On Friday nights, the historic town hosts an art night featuring vendors, live music, and, of course, more food!

Taste one of OnoPop’s Ulu (breadfruit) popsicles, a non-dairy vanilla flavored ice treat. For something heartier, head to Midnight Bear Breads Bakery and Cafe for your choice of homemade pizzas, breads, and pastries, like the sweet, nutty macadamia nut cinnamon swirl roll.

For another food truck, head to Porky’s Kauai, voted one of the best local restaurants. Keeping it simple, the truck serves just 3 dishes: tangy, sweet Kalua pork pineapple sausage, the beef frank and pulled pork bun, and Hawaiian style pulled pork grilled cheese sandwich.

17. Bike The Koloa Heritage Trail

Admire lava cliffs dating back 5 million years along the Kola Heritage Trail. Located in the historic town of Koloa, the pathway takes you past 14 different stops and monuments including sugar and pineapple plantations dating back to the mid 1800s.

There’s also the Spouting Horn blowhole—or puhi, as the locals call it. More stops include Pu’uwanawana Volcanic Cone, and Harpa Road, an emergency route dating back to World War II.

For some Hawaiian fusion food, stop by Kiawe Roots, a family owned restaurant serving dishes like Hawaiian jerk pork ribs with spiced Kauai honey barbecue sauce.

18. Visit Kauai’s Moir Gardens

Also one of the stops on Kola Heritage Trail, make sure to swing by Moir Gardens located on the grounds of the Outrigger Kiahuna Plantation. Open daily with free entry.

These rich gardens are full of exotic succulents, cacti, bromeliads, orchids, and water lilies which grow on the 35-acre historic estate. While much of Kauai gets battered with rain each year, Poipu is a dry part of the island. So most of the plants here thrive in dry conditions.

19. Check Out Alekoko Fishpond

The Hawaiian Islands have passed on legends of ghostly stories for generations. So you don’t want to miss your chance to see some of the local mythological landmarks, like Alekoko Fishpond.

According to legend, mischievous little people called the Menehune inhabit the island. These mythical creatures allegedly build the fishpond in one night by lining up over 25 miles and passing lava stones hand to hand!

True or not, this man-made pond has been used for fishing for 1,000 years, and it’s a cool example of ancient Hawaiian aquaculture. Today, you can see the Fishpond from a viewing platform near the road to Huleia National Wildlife Refuge, home to many endangered bird species.

20. See The “Wettest Spot On Earth”

Often called the wettest spot on earth, Mount Waialeale averages 450 inches of rainfall annually. In 1982, 666 inches of rain were recorded on the peak, establishing an official record, which explains why the locals call it Wai’ale’ale, meaning “overflowing water”.

Clouds often enshroud the 5,000 foot mountain, and many legends surround this mystical peak. Although it seems impossible to climb, stone ruins at the 5,000 foot high summit, Kawaikini Peak, suggest that ancient inhabitants would climb to the top to give offerings.

Tourists can view the dormant shield volcano by helicopter or explore the two trails on the eastern side of Waialeale.

21. Wailua Falls

Further up the Wailua River mentioned earlier is a large waterfall called Wailua Falls. This is probably the most popular waterfall on Kauai, due to its easy access right next to a road. No hiking required!

This beautiful 80 foot tall double waterfall is located in Eastern Kauai behind the Kalepa Mountain Forest Reserve in Hanamā‘ulu. Legends tell of Hawaiian royalty who used to test their endurance by jumping from the top of the falls into the shallow pool below, and some didn’t survive.

There’s an unofficial (illegal) trail that winds down to the base of the falls from the road, however it is extremely slippery and steep. Attempt it at your own risk.

Waterfall Paddleboard Trip

Explore the secret rivers and waterfalls of Kauai alongside a trained naturalist and wildlife photographer.

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22. Beachfront Camping At Polihale Park

Hawaii draws tourists from all over the world looking to reconnect with the natural beauty of this tropical paradise. Those who love the outdoors can’t pass on a trip to Polihale State Park.

Locals spend weekends here, often riding ATVs along the 2 mile stretch of beach. Set up your tent along the beach to enjoy saffron and crimson sunsets before sleeping underneath the stars. Added bonus: alcohol and campfires are permitted.

The strong current means swimmers should take caution. But the southwestern side has a cove, ideal for swimming and snorkeling. The 5-mile road getting here is rough, and only suitable for 4X4 vehicles.

23. Kauapea Beach (AKA Secret Beach)

Secrets is a massive beach on the North Shore of Kauai near the town of Kilauea. The beach is located at the bottom of steep cliffs, and isn’t the easiest place to access. There’s a well-used trail, but it’s often muddy and tricky to get down.

But the hike down is worth it, because even if there’s 100 people on the beach, it’s so massive that you can find a quiet place all to yourself if you just keep walking. If you walk for long enough, you’ll eventually stumble onto a cliff-side waterfall and a “clothing optional” area of the beach.

24. Grand Hyatt Resort Pools

Even if you don’t stay overnight at Kauai’s beautiful Grand Hyatt Resort, it’s still possible to visit their amazing tropical pools, lazy river, and private beach with a special Day Pass. A wonderful place to relax in the sun.

The area behind the resort is an oasis of flower gardens, freshwater pools, waterfalls, shaded cabanas, a salt water lagoon, multiple jacuzzis, watersides, and even a lazy river! You can easily waste hours here, ordering fancy drinks and taking dips in the pools.

25. Wai’oli Hui’ia Church

Waioli Church in Hanalei stands out from many other churches I’ve visited around the world. Founded by protestant missionaries in 1912, the green building blends in perfectly with the tropical Kauai mountains in the background.

It’s a popular stop for photos if you’re driving around the island. Feel free to go inside and have a look around if it’s open.

26. Kauai’s Glass Beach & Cemetery

This unique beach is located in the town of Eleele, in an industrial part of the island. Instead of regular sand, this beach is covered in small pieces of multicolored sea glass! Sea lions also like to hang out here, so you may catch a glimpse of them too.

The beach isn’t big, and it’s not a nice place for sunbathing (big ugly oil tanks behind it), but if you’re already in the area, it can be an interesting stop for a photo. Make sure to check out the nearby cemetery too, with old red headstones carved in Japanese writing.

27. Visit Mark Zuckerberg’s Beach

Sick of Facebook invading your privacy and selling your personal data? Why not give Zuck a taste of his own medicine, and invade HIS privacy by visiting the public beach under his 700-acre estate on Kauai!

Pila’a Beach is very difficult to get to, because it’s surrounded by Zuckerberg’s private land, however if you’re up for a challenge, it’s possible. There’s a hidden access road that leads to a cliff side, which if you climb down, you can then walk along a rocky shoreline for about 1200 feet to reach the beach.

Sorry Zuck. It’s totally legal! Maybe you should have read the island’s complete terms of service before you bought land on Kauai… all beaches are public.

28. Maliuhi Tree Tunnel

On the south shore of Kauai there’s a long road lined with green eucalyptus trees. It’s called the Maliuhi Tree Tunnel, and it’s pretty cool to drive through. The trees cover about a mile of highway 520 as you drive to Poʻipū.

The tree tunnel was planted back in 1911 as a gift to the community from Walter McBryde, a rich and powerful pinapple baron. At one point it was 3 times longer than it is now.

29. Wild Chicken Spotting

When we first got to Kauai, I was struck with the island’s wild chicken population. There are thousands of feral chickens roaming around EVERYWHERE. You’ll find them in front yards, crossing roads, parking lots, etc.

As is the case for many islands, once a non-native species gets brought over, sometimes it can lead to unintended consequences. Other Hawaiian islands have exploding populations of wild pigs and cattle — Kauai has chickens.

Between the original Polynesians, the voyages of Captain Cook, and Filipinos working on sugar cane plantations who kept birds for cockfighting, the island’s chicken population grew. A series of hurricanes in the 80’s set them all free!

30. Maha’ulepu Heritage Trail

The scenic cliff-side hike of Maha’ulepu Heritage Trail starts from Shipwreck Beach and winds its way along the undeveloped coast of the South Shore. The trail is not too difficult, but very exposed to the elements.

While hiking this rugged part of Kauai, you’ll encounter sand dunes, caves, ancient ruins, and eventually you’ll reach Mahaulepu Beach, a remote stretch of sand that doesn’t see many visitors. While it’s not a great beach for swimming, Humpback whales and sea turtles can often be spotted around here.

South Shore Cliff Hike

Hike from ocean cliffs down to caves along the shore while looking out for giant land tortoises sunbathing.

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Transportation Around Kauai

Rental Car

The best site to book your car is with Discover Cars. They search both local and international car rental companies to help you find the best possible price. This is the easiest way to rent a car and drive on Kauai.

Renting a car offers the best flexibility to explore remote spots on the island. Kauai has two major highways, Kaumualii and Kuhio. It can take an hour to get to the other side of the island.

Bus

The Kauai public bus system runs from Kekaha to Hanalei. A ride costs $2 per trip. You can also purchase a one day pass ($4) or monthly pass ($45). Although inexpensive, the bus system is more for locals going to work, and they don’t stop at many tourist attractions.

Taxi

Although you will find taxis near the Lihue Airport, you won’t likely see many throughout the island. That said, the island has its local taxi service, although difficult to hail. LYFT and Uber also run on the island. You can also book shuttles or private tours. Fares start at $3 for the first tenth mile then becomes $0.30 cents for every tenth mile thereafter.

Rent A Car In Kauai

Search both local and international car rental companies to help you find a good deal.

Check Latest Prices

Where To Stay On Kauai

Accommodation on Kauai is expensive. There’s just no way around it. Kauai is a small island, so hotels can charge a premium. Here are suggestions for good places to stay during your trip to Kauai Hawaii…

Useful Kauai Travel Tips & Advice

• Bring a pair of hiking boots that you don’t mind getting dirty for some of the many rocky, muddy trails on the island.
• Known as the rainiest island in Hawaii, Kauai’s tropical climate means daytime showers. The weather is always changing from sunshine to rain, so pack an umbrella and windbreaker or light rain jacket.
• Car rentals are in high demand, particularly during peak tourist seasons in the winter and summer, so make sure to reserve your rental in advance.
• Kauai locals are pretty territorial, and don’t take kindly to tourists showing up on their private property or roads, so pay particular attention to signs and stay off other people’s land.

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READ MORE HAWAII TRAVEL TIPS

I hope you enjoyed my guide on what to do in Kauai! Hopefully you found it useful. Here are a few more wanderlust-inducing articles that I recommend you read next:

• An Open Door Helicopter Tour Of Kauai
• Visiting Waimea Canyon State Park
• Top Things To Do On The Big Island
• The Best Travel Blogs On The Internet
• Travel Quotes To Inspire You

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Any questions about things to do in Kauai? Do you have other suggestions? Join the conversation on Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter to share!

This is a post from The Expert Vagabond adventure blog.

Lone Pine, California

Carefully planting one foot in front of the other, breathing heavily and climbing in snow with my ice axe, I push on to summit California’s highest mountain — Mt Whitney.

Mount Whitney is the highest mountain in the lower 48 states at 14,505 feet. Yes, California is home to both the lowest point in the United States (Death Valley), as well as one of the tallest!

The mountain has also become one of the most popular hikes in the state — so popular that you need to enter a lottery in order to win a permit to hike Whitney.

Well, at least during the summer months.

Rather than deal with 100 other hikers and the very real chance I wouldn’t win a permit, I decided to climb Mt. Whitney during the winter (technically early spring) month of April, when a permit isn’t required.

Of course, this meant hiking through snow and camping overnight in freezing temperatures. I also choose a more difficult trail called The Mountaineer’s Route.

This path requires basic mountaineering skills and isn’t for beginners.

Mt Whitney Hiking Guide

Don’t Underestimate This Mountain!

Before I get into the details of my hike up Mount Whitney, I want to emphasize how difficult this hike can be for those who are unprepared.

Approximately 30,000 people attempt to hike this mountain every year, and only about 30% of them make it to the top.

It’s not a particularly long hike, but it is VERY steep. You gain altitude extremely quickly. And if you don’t hike or train on a regular basis, it might just kick your butt.

Hiking in the winter or early spring, like I did, adds an extra level of difficulty with the snow. Many people have been injured or killed over the years trying to climb steep snow-covered sections without proper gear (or the skills to use it).

Whitney’s Different Hiking Routes

1. Mount Whitney Day Hike

DISTANCE: 22 miles (Round Trip)
ELEVATION GAIN: 6500 feet
TIME: 12-18 hours
DIFFICULTY: Moderate
SUMMARY: Easy Class 1 hiking, but a lot of it and at high elevations. It’s a very long day, and you need to start before sunrise to make it down before dark.

2. Mount Whitney Overnight

DISTANCE: 22 miles (Round Trip)
ELEVATION GAIN: 6500 feet
TIME: 2 days
DIFFICULTY: Moderate
SUMMARY: Spending a night on the mountain helps break up the hike, but you’ll also need to pack camping gear, which means a heavier backpack.

3. The Mountaineer’s Route

DISTANCE: 5 miles (Round Trip)
ELEVATION GAIN: 6600 feet
TIME: 2-3 days
DIFFICULTY: Difficult
SUMMARY: This is a more physically demanding Class 2 & Class 3 hiking route that requires some scrambling. It’s much shorter distance-wise, but with the same elevation gain. So you’re hiking straight up. This is the route I describe here.

Securing A Permit For The Hike

If you plan to climb Whitney during the normal permit season, between May 1st and November 1st, it requires signing up for their lottery system.

Only about 160 hikers are allowed on the trail per day.

Permits cost $15, and they can be hard to come by, especially if you’re trying to hike over a weekend. You can begin applying for a permit for the summer season on February 1st. Lottery winners are announced in March. If you’re one of the lucky ones to win, you can purchase the actual permit starting April 1st.

An alternative option, which is what I did, is to self-issue yourself a free permit in the off-season. Permits are free if you hike during the winter months between November 2nd and April 30th.

However hiking in the winter requires a bit more experience & specialized gear.

Climbing Mt Whitney (DAY 1)

My own Mount Whitney adventure began by driving to the Eastern Sierra Interagency Visitor Center in Lone Pine, CA during the 2nd week of April and self-issuing myself an overnight permit. If you don’t own a bear-proof container and WAG Bag (for pooping), you’ll have to pick up those too. Bear canisters can be rented here.

With my permit set, I jumped back into my jeep drove up to the closed gate on Whitney Portal Road. The upper part of the road leading to the Whitney Portal Campground and Campsites is closed this time of year.

There are two gates. The first one was open, but eventually, you’ll hit the closed one. The road is closed for maintenance as they clean up the annual spring rock falls with heavy machinery.

After parking on the side of the road, I gathered my gear and began walking up the pavement under the late afternoon sun. Hiking about 2000 feet of elevation gain over 2 miles to reach the official trailhead.

The road ends at the Whitney Portal Campsite where I set up camp for one night of acclimatization (at 8,300 feet). This early in the season, the campsite is closed but they have open bathrooms and freshwater.

Climbing Mt Whitney (DAY 2)

The next morning I was packed up and on the trail by 7am, ready to officially start my hike up the main Mt Whitney trail. Soon veering off to the right onto the North Fork Trail and The Mountaineer’s Route.

This is the same route that John Muir took on his solo summit of the peak on October 21, 1873.

My first obstacle was crossing the fresh spring runoff of the North Fork creek multiple times, through thick brush and saplings. Occasionally it was difficult to find the best route through this mess of vegetation.

Next up, the Eversbacher Ledges. This section of trail sends you zig-zagging up a steep wall (hiker’s right) via a series of narrow and exposed ledges. As long as it’s not icy, you’ll be fine. There’s one particularly sketchy section that requires a bit of a scramble up.

After you clear the ledges, you’ll find yourself at Lower Boyscout Lake. You can camp here if you need to, but a better location is further on, at Upper Boyscout Lake.

The more distance you can cover now means a quicker summit attempt tomorrow.

Overnight On The Mountain

I decided to push on past Upper Boyscout Lake in the afternoon and began looking for a suitable campsite in a rocky open area between it and Iceberg Lake, which sits at the bottom of the “chute”.

If you were hiking this route in the summer, most people spend the night next to Upper Boyscout Lake or Iceberg Lake to take advantage of a water source.

But with all the snow around to melt for water, there was no need for me to camp beside a lake.

I’d packed an avalanche shovel to use for building a snow wall if the wind was strong, but I lucked out with a clear, calm night. Got up in the middle of the night to take a few star photos too!

Climbing Mt Whitney (DAY 3)

Waking up at 6am, I re-packed my backpack to prepare for the summit push. Leaving behind my tent, sleeping bag, cooking kit, and additional overnight items I wouldn’t need to haul all the way up to the top.

Once you reach Iceberg Lake (12,621 feet), you’ll easily spot Mountaineer’s Gully, the steep 35 degree snow chute that’s next. In the winter, crampons and an ice axe are definitely required for this section. A slip here would send you falling over 1000 vertical feet down the chute…

A climbing helmet should be used too, as hikers above you often knock pretty large boulders loose or ice chunks that come tumbling by. Which happened a few times during my own ascent — luckily nothing came too close.

The Chute is a slow, steep slog. The high elevation doesn’t help either. I was resting after every 10 steps or so to catch my breath.

At the top of the chute, the snow clears to reveal a Class 2/3 rocky scramble up to the “notch”, a pillar of stone where the ground levels out a bit.

This is a good place to rest and have a snack while you plan your next move.

Reaching The Summit

From The Notch, there are a few different routes you can take to the summit. For the “True Mountaineer’s Route”, you head straight up a 400 ft Class 3 section of climbing, where ropes may or may not be used depending on your skill level.

As I was hiking solo, without ropes, and this was my first time up here, I decided to play it safe and take the alternative route — a longer alpine Class 2 traverse around the backside of the mountain and up to the summit.

Which turned out to be plenty sketchy in its own right!

Traversing the steep mountain face is pretty straightforward with crampons and your ice axe, except in a few sections where the snow was pretty thin, where you’re forced to down-climb steep sections attempting to find solid footing on the rocks just beneath the snow.

My adrenaline was certainly pumping in overdrive while trying to make it across…

With the traverse over, I began hiking up the backside. Pretty soon the Mount Whitney Summit Hut came into view, aka the Smithsonian Institute Shelter.

Built in 1904, this hut was used by scientists to study high-altitude phenomena, astrophysics, and for waiting out storms.

With the sun shining and a perfect blue-bird day, I ate lunch enjoying the incredible 360 degree views from the summit. I’d made it!

Hiking Mount Whitney solo in the late winter/early spring — the top of California (and highest point in the lower 48 states) at 14,505 feet.

Additional Hiking & Packing Tips

My Winter Packing List

Packing for a winter hiking adventure up Mt. Whitney is different than a summer day trip. You’ll need more backpacking gear than usual. My 50-liter backpack weighed 37 pounds using the free scale at the trailhead.

Mount Whitney Hiking Tips

• If you plan on camping, please keep in mind that wood fires are not allowed. Not that you’ll find much wood above the treeline anyway…
• Store your food outside the tent in a bear canister or Kevlar bag. You’re unlikely to see a bear, but marmots (large rodents) are a problem.
• This is not a quick & easy day hike, and reaches high altitudes. Know your personal limits, and don’t feel bad about turning around to stay safe.
• You really need to pay attention on timing your summit climb, and leave the top early enough that you’re not hiking down in the dark.
• Hiking the Mountaineer’s Route took me 2 full days (one night), plus another half day to hike up the closed Whitney Portal road and camp out at the trailhead the night before.

This is a post from The Expert Vagabond adventure blog.

Kauai, Hawaii

One of the best ways to see the Hawaiian islands is by air, and a doors-off Kauai helicopter tour of the Na Pali coast is an epic aerial photography experience!

If you don’t know by now, I absolutely love helicopters. In fact, I used to want to be a helicopter pilot as a kid (ok, maybe I still do).

So on our recent trip exploring the Hawaiian island of Kauai, I couldn’t pass up the chance to fly over the island’s famous Na Pali coastline in a helicopter!

Soaring through the sky, hovering over landscapes, and able to take off and land almost anywhere — helicopters are super cool.

While helicopter tours can be expensive, some places are just made to be photographed from a helicopter, like the Grand Canyon, New York City, and Cape Town for example.

We decided to take a helicopter tour of Kauai with the doors off for an extra adrenaline rush!

Kauai Helicopter Tour Guide

Best Helicopter Tours On Kauai

Doors-Off Tour

Anna and I decided to book a 60-minute open door helicopter tour with Jack Harter Helicopters. There are only 2 companies who offer this in Kauai, the other is Mauna Loa Helicopters. It’s great for photographers, because there’s no glass to get in the way of your shots. But you’re exposed to the elements!

Doors-On Tour

Most people choose to fly with the doors on, the normal way. It’s a bit more relaxing, and not as windy/cold. There’s a great Waimea Canyon & Na Pali Coast helicopter tour that covers all the top highlights. ➜ BOOK IT HERE

Sightseeing Plane

If you’re traveling to Kauai on a budget, but still want to fly over the Na Pali coast, a cheaper option is to book a Na Pali sightseeing airplane flight, which costs under $200 (about half the price of a helicopter). ➜ BOOK IT HERE

There is SO much cool stuff to see on Kauai that I definitely recommend the 60-minute option rather than the shorter flights.

An hour might sound like a lot, but it goes by very quickly when you’re having fun!

Beautiful Waimea Canyon

After leaving Lihue Airport, our Kauai helicopter adventure began by flying into Waimea Canyon — aka “The Grand Canyon” of the Pacific (thanks Mark Twain!).

At 14 miles long, and one mile wide, Waimea Canyon was one of my favorite destinations on Kauai. While you can drive and hike along the canyon walls, flying over it in a helicopter was extra special!

It’s made up of rugged cliffs with contrasting colors in orange, red, and green. The canyon basically covers the whole western side of the island — with 45 miles of hiking trails too.

The highlight is Waipo’o Waterfall, a massive 800-foot tower of water. Most Kauai helicopter tours will make two passes so everyone gets a chance to photograph it.

➜ Read My Waimea Canyon Travel Guide Here

Kauai’s Best Waterfalls From Above!

There are SO MANY waterfalls on Kauai! From the ground, you’ll only be able to experience some of them. But from the air… that’s when you can really appreciate the best waterfalls on the island.

Our Kauai helicopter flight took us over Hanapepe Valley, home of the famous Jurassic Park waterfall.

Its Hawaiian name is Manawaiopuna Falls, the same 400-foot waterfall that was featured several times in the original 1993 Jurassic Park movie.

It seemed that there was some kind of massive waterfall (or 10) cascading into every valley we flew over!

The Stunning Na Pali Coastline

The most epic section of our helicopter flight came next. Kauai’s stunning Na Pali Coast State Park on the north end of the island.

Often regarded as the most beautiful part of the Hawaiian islands, Na Pali (which means “the cliffs”) is a 17-mile stretch of lush emerald green cliffs and jagged mountain peaks.

Pristine white-sand beaches dot the border between land and ocean. The water is a deep turquoise blue color.

Keep an eye out for “Cathedrals”, a spectacular wall of knife-edge ridges.

This is also where the Kalalau Trail is located, a rugged (and sketchy) 2-3 day hiking & camping trek along the coast of Kauai.

Mount Waialeale’s “Weeping Wall”

Finally, we flew into the rainy Hanalei Valley towards the Mount Waiʻaleʻale Volcano, one of the wettest spots on earth.

It’s here where over 20 different waterfalls funnel down the steeps sides of the long-dormant volcano, into a river far below.

The weather here is frequently bad, and today was no exception. The summit of Waialeale is visible for only about 20 days per year.

We flew below the clouds, into the rain, and right up next to the “Weeping Wall” itself. With the doors off, it was extremely cold, windy, and wet!

If you are looking for a difficult hike in Kauai, you can hike to this wall of water, sometimes called the Blue Hole Hike. It’s a tough (and wet) full-day trek.

Kauai Helicopter Photography Tips

While I love my Mavic 2 Pro Drone, aerial landscape photography from a helicopter with the doors off is so much fun! But it can be tricky too.

Use Shutter Priority Mode

I’m a big fan of shooting photos in Manual Mode. But in some situations, things are moving too fast to adjust manually. Helicopter photography is like this. I generally recommend keeping your shutter speed at 1/1200 (or higher) so your images aren’t blurry. Auto ISO is handy too!

Fire Away!

Shoot as many photos as possible, on rapid fire mode. Helicopter tours can move quickly, and there’s often not much time to compose your shot. You need to work fast, and shoot TONS of photos. Make sure to pack a spare battery and a large (plus fast) memory card that can handle all the images.

Polarizer & Lens Hood

If you’re flying in a helicopter with the doors on, you’ll need to shoot through the windows. This glass can cause unwanted glare & reflections. Using a polarizing filter and a lens hood can help reduce this.

Camera Gear

If you own two camera bodies, I’d recommend bringing them both. Or renting a 2nd one from LensRentals.com (it’s actually super affordable).

Keep one camera with a wide-angle lens (like 16-35mm), and another with a telephoto zoom (like 70-200mm). If you can only bring one camera/lens, pick something that’s in the middle, like a 24-70mm.

Best Cameras For Traveling

Looking to upgrade your camera? Check out my review of the best portable cameras for travel photography.

Click Here For Free Guide

More Hawaii Helicopter Advice

Helicopter Safety

Over the last few years, there have been some high-profile helicopter sightseeing crashes, some of them with the doors off. However, I consider them very rare events, just like plane crashes.

That said, many helicopter tour companies have started banning sticking your hands and feet out from the open doors. While I was allowed to do this in NYC, we couldn’t do it on our Kauai helicopter trip. Always listen to your pilot!

How Much Does It Cost?

Helicopter tours on Kauai can cost anywhere between $250 – $400 per person, depending on the length of the trip, the type of helicopter used, and the company.

Best Time For A Helicopter Trip

Kauai isn’t called the Garden Island for no reason! The winters here can be very wet & stormy. So summer is generally the best time of year to go on a helicopter tour. You have more chances for good weather.

As for light, because the Na Pali coast is on the Northwest side of the island, the sun hits the mountain peaks in the early afternoon. Just before sunset is another good time to go. ★

This is a post from The Expert Vagabond adventure blog.

Exploring Waikiki Beach in Hawaii

Hawaii, United States

The aloha spirit is alive and well on the tropical islands of Hawai’i. With delicious food, cultural experiences, beautiful beaches, and outdoor adventures — there’s something for everyone in the rainbow state.

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Last week Anna & I visited the islands of Oahu and Kauai with Hawaiian Airlines to celebrate the re-launch of the Hawaiian Airlines World Elite Mastercard, issued by Barclays.

Hawai’i and I go way back. Back to my college days, when I took a break from school and moved to Honolulu to become a beach bum. I lived in Waikiki for a year, and had such a great time!

Days were dedicated to surfing and hiking, while nights were spent working the front desk of an international backpacker’s hostel.

Temporarily living in Hawaii, I was able to experience ho’okipa — Hawaiian hospitality. I also fell in love with the state’s natural beauty. So many epic beaches, jungles, mountains, waterfalls, and waves to explore!

Even though I no longer call Hawaii home, I return every chance I get.

Aloha from Hawaii!

Flying With Hawaiian Airlines

To kick off the adventure in style, we flew Hawaiian Airlines first class from Los Angeles to Honolulu on the A330. I don’t fly first-class often, but it definitely helps with getting some good sleep on overseas flights.

Especially with lie-flat seats like the ones we had on this trip! As a side-sleeper, the ability to stretch out makes a HUGE difference in whether I get any sleep on a plane.

Free mai-tais and tasty Hawaiian-inspired meals prepared us for the start of our island hopping journey on both Oahu and Kauai.

In July, Hawaiian re-launched their Hawaiian Airlines World Elite Mastercard. It offers 30,000 bonus miles to new cardmembers after their first purchase, no foreign transaction fees, first checked bag free, and an annual $100 companion ticket discount on Hawaiian Airlines flights.

It’s a great way to earn miles towards free Hawaiian Airlines flights with 3x miles on Hawaiian Airlines purchases, 2x miles on gas/groceries/dining, and 1x miles on all other purchases using the card.

Breakfast With a View

Longboarding on Oahu

Exploring Waikiki

Our first stop in Hawaii was the island of Oahu, and the capital city of Honolulu. We stayed at the beautiful new Ritz Carlton in Waikiki.

Honolulu’s Waikiki neighborhood has some of the most famous beaches in the world, and it’s where most tourists stay during their first trip to Hawaii.

Waikiki is also where I learned to surf many years ago, just beyond the bronze statue of Duke Kahanamoku, known as Hawaii’s father of modern surfing.

The area is home to many high-rise hotels, restaurants, and nightclubs. One restaurant you shouldn’t miss is Roy’s Waikiki.

Kahanamoku Lagoon at Hilton Hawaiian Village

Water Biking Around the Lagoon

Hilton Hawaiian Village

It’s said the Duke himself learned how to surf the same waves in front of where the Hilton Hawaiian Village now stands. This slice of pristine white sand is full of history, and a fun sunbathing beach in Waikiki.

Along with the awesome beach, there’s also Kahanamoku Lagoon which is open to the public for swimming, kayaking and stand-up paddle boarding. Anna and I rented a water bike and paddled around the calm lagoon soaking up the sun.

Every Friday night, the hotel launches an awesome free fireworks display around 8pm. The best place to watch is from the lagoon, where fireworks explode right over your head!

Ma’o Organic Farms

Making Hawaii Self-Sufficient

Ma’o Organic Farms

Maʻo Organic Farms is based in Wai’anae on the west coast of Oahu. We visited to learn how they are growing sustainable, organic produce for some of Hawaii’s best restaurants — and giving back to the community in the form of college scholarships for local students who volunteer there.

Before Europeans landed in 1778, the Hawaiian Kingdom (with a population of up to 1 million) was self-sufficient at producing its own food supply using a sustainable agricultural system called ahupua’a.

These days Hawaii basically imports about 80% of its food from elsewhere, and being so remote, it’s very expensive to ship it there. For example, a gallon of milk can run $7!

There’s been a growing movement on the islands to produce more food locally, and small farms like Ma’o are teaching a new generation how to grow sustainable agriculture as their ancestors did.

History of the Aloha Shirt

Reyn Spooner Hawaiian Shirts

Aloha Shirt Fridays

Do you know the history of the Hawaiian shirt (aka aloha shirt)? It all started back in the 1920’s, when clothing manufacturers from Honolulu’s Chinatown started making colorful, gaudy shirts out of Japanese silk kimono material.

Eventually, in the 1930’s, aloha shirts were mass-produced for tourists, worn after a day at the beach in Waikiki, and taken home as souvenirs. In the 1940’s, some local companies began allowing employees to wear more relaxed clothing during the hottest months of the year.

Then came “Aloha Fridays” in the 1960’s. Wearing aloha shirts was typical business attire on Fridays all over Hawaii.

One of the most famous Hawaiian shirt makers is Reyn Spooner. We toured their offices and learned how they make these iconic shirts from scratch (and, I happen to be wearing mine right now as I type this).

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Hawaiian Pupus Appetizers

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Roasted Kalua Pig

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Koko Head Cafe

If you’re looking for a good bite to eat in Honolulu, you need to visit Koko Head Cafe for their famous brunches. Chef Lee Anne Wong is an executive chef for Hawaiian Airlines, overseeing the airline’s in-flight meal program.

You may also recognize her as a contestant on Bravo’s popular reality show, Top Chef. Chef Wong prepared us a huge assortment of Hawaiian dishes, from raw fish pupus (bite-size appetizers) to slow-roasted Kalua pig.

Searching for King Kong!

Jurassic World Set at Kualoa Ranch

Kualoa Ranch

Kualoa Ranch is a 4,000 acre Private Nature Reserve and cattle ranch that’s open to the public on the East coast of Oahu.

The area is made up of jagged green mountain ridges and a series of three lush valleys, an ancient and sacred training ground for Hawaiian royalty in the art of war & history.

Because of its incredible natural beauty, Kualoa has been the backdrop for countless Hollywood movies and TV shows like Jurassic Park, Jurassic World, Kong: Skull Island, 50 First Dates, Pearl Harbor, Jumanji, LOST, and more!

We spent an afternoon touring the ranch in the back of a 4×4 truck, checking out all the famous movie set locations. Like the Indominus Rex padlock from Jurassic World!

My favorite stop was probably the giant ape “graveyard” from Kong: Skull Island. Massive and realistic-painted bones made of foam were scattered about under tall green cliffs.

Making Traditional Poke

Tasty Poke Bowl with Seaweed!

Learning How To Make Poke

One day for lunch, we learned how to make fresh ahi-tuna poke with Foodland Supermarket’s corporate chef Keoni Chang.

Poke is raw fish salad served as an appetizer in Hawaiian cuisine, and sometimes as a main course with rice.

There are many different ways to make poke, but I think the traditional style was my favorite. Chunks of raw ahi-tuna, seaweed, sea salt, and crushed Kukui nuts.

Koloa Rum Tasting Room

Hawaiian Rum Tasting

Hawaii has a long history of sugar cane production, first initiated by ancient Polynesian voyagers during their migration from the South Pacific. The first commercial sugar production began in 1935, and with it, the first batches of Hawaiian Rum.

After jumping on a Hawaiian Airlines flight from Oahu to Kauai, one of our first stops on the Garden Island was a free rum tasting session at Koloa Rum, located at the old Kilohana Plantation in Lihue.

Dark rum, spiced rum, coconut rum — we learned which types of rums pair best with different mixers, or on their own. Koloa Rum is distilled twice using a vintage 1,210-gallon copper-pot still from 1947 with a copper column and condenser.

The Grand Hyatt Resort Kauai

Anna Chillin’ at the Lazy River

Grand Hyatt Kauai

Checking into the Grand Hyatt Resort on Kauai was quite a treat… this place was stunning. Set right on the beach, with flowers and palm trees in all directions. It has its own lazy river, waterslides, and a salt-water lagoon.

Anna and I learned how to make traditional Hawaiian flower “leis”, attended a luau with traditional hula dancing and mountains of poi, and spent time floating down the lazy river to relax and cool off in the tropical heat.

Shipwrecks Beach

Shipwrecks Beach

Right next to the Grand Hyatt there is a public beach called Shipwrecks, a local favorite for surfing and body surfing.

The waves can get quite big, and break close to the shore, so it’s usually not the best beach for swimming — but fun for watching the locals brave the massive water.

There’s a great lookout point over the coastline from a cliff not far away, where you can watch locals fishing or just catch the sunrise.

You can access the cliffs from a trail at the end of the beach. There are sea turtles that swim below the cliffs too, so keep an eye out for them if you can!

Hiking Waimea Canyon on Kauai

Get Closer To Hawaii Every Day

Well, I hope I’ve inspired you to visit Hawaii soon (like you didn’t already need another reason)! These Pacific islands are incredibly beautiful, diverse, and full of memorable things to do on your vacation.

And if you’re interested in collecting miles & points for a free flight to Hawaii, make sure to check out the all-new Hawaiian Airlines World Elite Mastercard issued by Barclays Bank and get closer to your goal every day.

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This is a post from The Expert Vagabond adventure blog.

Big Island, Hawaii

We spent 5 amazing days exploring Hawaii’s waterfalls, beaches, volcanoes, and wildlife. Here are some of the best things to do on the Big Island Of Hawaii during your visit!

Oahu might be the most popular and busiest Hawaiian island, but The Big Island of Hawai’i is the largest, and incredibly it’s still growing!

When I lived on Oahu many years ago, I was a broke college student who couldn’t afford to visit other islands of Hawaii…

After our epic road trip on the Big Island, I now realize what I was missing!

With so many adventure activities, a laid-back attitude, and far fewer people, it really demonstrated how different the Hawaiian islands can be.

If you’re planning to visit Hawaii, I wanted to recommend a few fun and unusual things to do on the Big Island, no matter what time of year you visit.

Big Island Hawaii Highlights Map

HOW TO USE THIS MAP: Above you’ll find a map of highlights on the Big Island of Hawaii. Click on the top left of the map to find separate layers marking the route and points of interest. You can hide and show different layers, or click icons on the map to see the names of places I mention in this travel guide. “Star” the map to save it to your own Google Maps, or open the map in a new window for a larger version. Enjoy!

Hawaii Travel Restrictions 2022

Hawaii is open to most travelers again, including American tourists. However you do need proof of your COVID-19 vaccination(s) or a negative test result before being allowed entry.

Many hotels, attractions, and private tours are open with new health & safety protocols in place, and you still have to follow certain guidelines.

You can find the latest updates on traveling to Hawaii here.

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Best Things To Do On The Big Island

1: Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

If you want to know what to do on the Big Island first, you can’t go wrong with a trip to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. In the Hawaiian religion, Pele is the goddess of fire who lives in the active Halemaʻumaʻu crater of Kilauea Volcano.

The Hawaiian Islands are essentially a chain of massive volcanoes, and The Big Island is over the hot-spot right now, so the island is still being formed by these active lava flows & eruptions. The most recent was in the summer of 2018!

Volcanoes National Park is pretty big, with tons of different things to do. It is open to the public 24-hours a day, year round too. Which is great for early-bird landscape photographers like me.

Volcanoes National Park Tour

Visit a Kona coffee farm, black sand beach, and Hawaii Volcanoes National Park on a professionally guided tour.

Book Online Now

National Park Highlights

Crater Rim Drive – Driving your car along this route is the easiest way to see the park, it’s an 11 mile route full of scenic overlooks and interesting stops.

Jaggar Museum – A museum on volcanology with displays of equipment used by scientists to study the volcano. Also one of the best views of Halemaumau Crater!

Thurston Lava Tubes – A cool lava tube/tunnel you can explore after a 20 minute walk through a tree fern forest.

Kīlauea Iki Trail – This 4 mile (6.4km) loop trail takes you into a former lava lake that erupted with 1900 foot tall fountains of lava back in 1959.

The park is pretty big, and there are professionally guided tours that will allow you catch the highlights if you don’t have a lot of time.

Where To See Volcanic Lava Flows?

If you drive up to Jagger Museum at Halemaʻumaʻu Crater, you might catch a glimpse of lava bubbling in the distance. But nighttime is the best time to visit, as the whole crater glows with red light.

To see lava up close, you’ll need to visit the Kalapana Lava Viewing Area, an hour long drive away from the National Park entrance (and closer to the town of Hilo). After the road ends, it’s another 3 miles by foot or rented bicycle.

To find the lava flow at Kalapana, you can either join a tour, or you can explore on your own like we did. The bike rental places will give you a basic map with instructions on how to find the lava.

The National Park Service also posts daily volcano updates here.

Kilauea Lava Flow Hike

Hike across the active volcano of Kilauea. See historic lava flows dating from 1881 to the most recent flow from 2018.

Book Online Now

2: Punalu’u Black Sand Beach

The dark black sands of Punalu’u Beach is the result of the Big Island’s long history of volcanic eruptions. It formed over time as hot lava flowed into the ocean, exploding into tiny fragments and washing ashore.

The beach is home to endangered Hawksbill Turtles and Hawaiian Green Sea Turtles that like to sunbathe on the warm black sand.

While it’s a wonderful spot to see these incredible creatures in person, just remember not to get too close.

There are rules in place to protect the turtles from human harassment.

Aside from checking out the turtles, Punalu’u is also good for swimming, snorkeling tours, walking, or even camping (with a permit of course).

Sea Turtles & Black Sand Beach

Swim in a lagoon full of sea turtles, colorful fish, and sometimes dolphins on this beach snorkeling tour.

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3: Snorkeling Kealakekua Bay

The water of Kealakekua Bay is crystal clear, and full of colorful fish and coral reefs. It’s also where Captain James Cook, the first Westerner to visit Hawaii, was killed in a skirmish with Native Hawaiians.

The bay is one of the best places to go snorkeling on the Big Island. Most people book snorkeling tours by boat, but for the more adventurous, you can also rent a kayak and explore on your own.

Anna & I rented a two-person kayak from Kona Boys (we had a rental car) and spent the morning swimming with tropical fish.

Dolphin Spotting In The Bay

Occasionally you can even find spinner dolphins and sea turtles in the bay! Unfortunately, we didn’t see any dolphins that day… but we heard they were spotted further down the coast.

On the East side of the bay you’ll find the ruins of a Hikiau Heiau (sacred temple) dedicated to the Hawaiian fertility and music god Lono.

Hawaii Snorkeling & Dolphin Trip

Discover Kona’s underwater paradise on this 4.5-hour snorkeling cruise and dolphin watching trip.

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4: Sunset On Mauna Kea Volcano

Did you know that it actually snows in Hawaii? And that Hawaii is technically home to the tallest mountain in the world? Well now you do!

Mauna Kea Volcano is Hawaii’s tallest mountain, at 13,796 feet (4205 meters). But most of the volcano is actually underwater. If measured from the sea floor, Mauna Kea towers 33,476 feet (10,204 meters).

That’s even taller than Mount Everest!

At the summit of this long dormant volcano lies the Mauna Kea Observatory, a collection of 13 high-powered space telescopes.

Driving up to the observatory for sunset is a popular activity, and so is late-night stargazing trips. There are also a few short hikes around the top of the volcano. In the winter, the summit can be covered with snow.

Volcano Star Gazing Tour

Observe the deep sky through a large aperture telescope on the summit of Mauna Kea with a professional astronomer.

Book Online Now

5: Unwind In Holualoa Town

Sitting along the fertile slopes of the Hualalai Volcano above Kailua-Kona lies the artist-friendly town of Holualoa, where we based ourselves on the western side of the Big Island.

Holualoa has tons of small-town charm, with a winding two-lane road lined with art galleries, coffee shops, and friendly locals. It was the perfect place to relax after our different adventures.

We stayed at the Holualoa Inn, in the heart of Kona Coffee Country. In fact, the inn grows its own coffee, fruits, vegetables, and collects eggs from a chicken coop out back.

When not off exploring the rest of the island, we were strolling through Holualoa Inn’s zen gardens, sunbathing by the pool, or getting a massage on our cottage’s lanai.

6: Papakolea Green Sand Beach

The Hawaiian islands are full of beautiful beaches, but one of the most peculiar is the green sand beach of Papakolea located on the South West coast of the Big Island.

This 49,000 year old cinder cone belonging to the Mauna Loa volcano contains billions of green crystals called olivines that give the beach its name.

Papakolea is a bit off the beaten track, and not easy to reach. The hike out is 5-miles (about two hours) round trip, so be prepared with plenty of water. There’s nowhere to hide from the sun either.

However, this also means only the most adventurous souls make the trek — limiting the number of people out there.

7: Snorkel/Dive With Manta Rays

Just off the coast of Kona, groups of huge 20-foot (6 meter) wide manta rays soar through the water hunting for plankton to eat. It’s possible to jump in the water at night and watch them feed.

Our night-time manta ray snorkeling tour began by chasing a stunning pink & orange sunset along the coastline on a sailing catamaran.

After the sun went down, we jumped into the ocean and grabbed onto a custom floating SUP board with hand holds. The board also has an ultraviolet light shinning down onto the ocean floor.

The light attracts millions of microscopic plankton, and the graceful manta rays swim under you to scoop them up in their massive mouths. It’s a magical experience! Scuba diving with the mantas is also possible.

Manta Ray Snorkeling Trip

Enjoy a magical moment at night with huge manta rays gracefully gliding through the water under you.

Book Online Now

8: Coffee Tasting In Kona

You can’t leave the Big Island of Hawaii without getting your caffeine fix at one of the world’s most famous coffee towns. Kona’s rich volcanic soil helps produce smooth coffee with low acidity.

There are roughly 600 coffee farms in the Kona area, and many offer tours to the public, some are free! The most famous one is probably Greenwell Farms.

Or, if you just want to visit some great local cafes, make sure to check out some of our favorites including Holuakoa Gardens Cafe and Kona Haven.

As a hardcore coffee lover, I was in heaven trying all the different types of Kona coffee around town. Make sure to bring some home too!

9: Visit Akaka Waterfall

At a towering 442 feet tall, Akaka Falls is Hawaii’s largest waterfall. It’s located in Akaka Falls State Park, about 11 miles north from Hilo. Entry into the park costs only $5 per car.

The easy 0.4-mile loop hike takes you through a lush jungle filled with orchids, bamboo trees, and a stream-eroded gorge. You can complete the whole thing in about 30 minutes.

Along with the famous Akaka Waterfall, there’s a second “smaller” 100 foot waterfall called Kahuna Falls. You can also join a guided waterfall tour.

Akaka Waterfall can be viewed from several points along the trail through the park, but the best spot is from high above on the edge of the gorge. Late morning is a good time to visit so the sun will be shining on the falls.

Big Island Waterfall Tour

Explore the sacred Waipio Valley, see the tallest waterfall on the island, and visit an ancient lava cave.

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10: Pu’uhonua o Honaunau National Park

In ancient Hawaii, long before it became a state, local sacred laws or kapu governed every aspect of Hawaiian society. The penalty for breaking these laws was death…

But if the criminals managed to get themselves to a pu’uhonua, or place of refuge, they were absolved of their crimes and could return to normal life.

Today you can visit Pu’uhonua o Hōnaunau National Historical Park to experience the history of this place, still considered a sacred site.

The Hale o Keawe temple located here contains the bones of chiefs that infuse the area with their mana (power). Dramatic looking wooden statues called Ki’i act as guardians to the bay and nearby temple.

Getting To The Big Island

There are two main airports on the Big Island of Hawaii. Kona International Airport (KOA) to the west, or Hilo International Airport (ITO) in the east.

You can try flying directly to these airports, or hop on a short 40-minute flight connecting from Honolulu. We flew into Hilo and rented a car to drive around the island on a road trip.

Renting A Car In Hawaii

The best site to book your car is Discover Cars. They search both local and international car rental companies to help you find the best possible price. This is the easiest way to rent a car in Hawaii.

Roads on the Big Island can be narrow and winding. So it can take longer than you think to drive around it. Traveling from Hilo to Kona on Highway 11 takes about 3 hours, and driving Highway 19 around the north shore takes 2 hours.

Rent A Car In Hawaii

Search both local and international car rental companies to help you find a good deal.

Check Latest Prices

Where To Stay In Hawaii

For most of our trip, we stayed at the beautiful Holualoa Inn outside Kona in the small village of Holualoa. It was the perfect place to relax after exploring the island.

But here are some other suggestions for good places to stay during your trip to the Big Island of Hawaii too.

BEST ACCOMMODATION ON THE BIG ISLAND

Big Island Travel Tips & Advice

• We spent 5 days exploring things to do on the Big Island, but I wish we’d stayed longer — at least a week. There was a lot to see!
• Make sure to check out the Hawaiian cowboy countryside of the Kohala Coast and the thick tropical jungle and waterfalls of Waimea Canyon.
• Because the Big Island of Hawaii is so big (4,028 square miles, about the size of Connecticut) — driving around it takes a long time.
• While the Big Island has some nice beaches, it’s really not a typical “beach” destination like Oahu is. Most people travel to the Big Island for the many volcanoes — both active and dormant.
• Another highlight of the Big Island is fewer tourists, and a laid-back country vibe — making it a great place to relax if that’s what you’re after.

I know we’ll be back to the Big Island one day, because the amazing Hawaiian Islands are one of my favorite travel destinations in the United States. ★

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READ MORE HAWAII TRAVEL TIPS

I hope you enjoyed my guide on what to do on the Big Island of Hawaii! Hopefully you found it useful. Here are a few more wanderlust-inducing articles that I recommend you read next:

• Helicopter Tour Of The Na Pali Coast
• Island Hopping On Oahu
• Miami To Key West Road Trip
• Ultimate Travel Guide To Kauai
• Best Travel Blogs On The Internet

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Have any questions about the Big Island of Hawaii? What about other suggestions? Join the conversation on Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter to share!

This is a post from The Expert Vagabond adventure blog.

Ely, Minnesota

If you’re looking to get away, unwind, and reconnect with nature, you really can’t beat a backcountry canoe trip into Minnesota’s pristine Boundary Waters Canoe Area.

With the wind at my back, I glided effortlessly over the cool lake water with every thrust of my paddle. The calming silence broken only by the lonely wail of a loon swimming close by…

My father & sister were slightly ahead of me, scouting for our first campsite. Our lightweight kevlar canoes loaded with enough food & gear to support us for 10 days in the wilderness.

The Boundary Waters Canoe Area (BWCA) is an outdoor lover’s paradise — encompassing over one million acres of North Woods backcountry and 1000+ scenic lakes.

Part of Superior National Forest, it hugs the border of Minnesota in the United States and Ontario in Canada. This is a summary of our first adventure canoeing the lakes of the BWCA, fishing for dinner, and camping in the forest.

I hope it inspires you to embark on your own journey into Minnesota’s Boundary Waters one day!

Boundary Waters History

Canoeing, camping, fishing, and hunting have been practiced in the Boundary Waters area for hundreds of years. The Ojibwe and Sioux indigenous tribes called these woods home, traveling the numerous lakes in birch-bark canoes.

Next came French fur trappers and the English-owned Hudson Bay Company, who made fortunes selling beaver pelts caught in the region. Eventually, in the 1900’s, the area became a popular recreation destination.

Finally in 1978, after many legal battles, the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness Act was passed to protect the region from development.

It’s one of America’s greatest land conservation success stories, and is enjoyed by over 200,000 visitors a year. However because it’s so large, the BWCA doesn’t feel as crowded as more popular National Parks.

Canoeing The BWCA

In July of 2017, I drove up to Ely, Minnesota along with my father and sister to begin our first “epic” Boundary Waters adventure into the North Woods.

We’d been looking forward to it for months! A way to bring back childhood memories of canoeing & camping together in New England… some family bonding time.

It’s also healthy to simply take a break, immerse yourself in nature, and disconnect from the outside world. One of the best ways I’ve found to recharge your senses, de-stress, and gain some perspective on life!

After packing up our gear the night before at a rented cottage in Ely, we awoke before sunrise, strapped two canoes onto the car’s roof-rack, and drove towards Entry Point #23 at Mudro Lake to start our 10 day journey.

Our Boundary Waters Route:

• Mudro Lake
• Fourtown Lake
• Boot Lake
• Fairy Lake
• Gun Lake
• Gull Lake
• Thunder Lake
• Beartrap Lake
• (then back to Mudro the way we came)

Portaging Through The Forest

If you think a long-distance canoe trip is easy, I’ve got some news for you. While many of the lakes are next to each other, you still have to cross portions of land to get from one lake to another. This is called a “portage”.

Basically, you get out of your canoe, unload it, then take turns hiking the canoe and your gear through the woods to the next lake. Depending on how many people are in your group, and how much gear you have, it could take a couple trips back and forth to get everything over.

Some Boundary Waters portage trails are only 50 yards long. Others can be up to a mile long. And portage trails aren’t measured in meters or feet, but in “rods”. A rod is about 16.5 feet long, or the approximate length of a canoe.

Portaging can be a nice way to break up the trip — a chance to stretch your legs and give your arms a rest.

However if the trails are overgrown, steep, or muddy — or if you hit a series of small lakes with multiple portages over a short time, it gets tiring too.

Camping In The Wilderness

Each lake has a handful of designated campsites that are snatched up on a first-come, first-serve basis. They’re equipped with a fire-pit, metal cooking grill, and a biffy (open-air camp toilet).

If all the campsites are taken, you must continue on to the next lake and check there. True wild camping is not allowed in the Boundary Waters, unlike on the Canadian side (called Quetico Provincial Park).

Usually we’d pick a good campsite in the early afternoon, set up our tents and tarp, then go fishing nearby. Sometimes we’d stay in the same spot for 2 nights in a row — in order to relax between travel days.

Gathering firewood was a regular task, sometimes requiring us to jump into a canoe, visit another island, and seek out dead downed trees (white pine, cedar, jack pine). We’d saw some limbs off, load the canoe, return to camp, and cut the wood into smaller pieces.

NOTE: Don’t gather firewood from the shoreline, hike in and find dead wood that can’t easily be seen from the water as part of Leave No Trace principles.

Fresh Water Fishing

Many people take canoe trips into the Boundary Waters for the amazing fishing found there. The fish are plentiful, and large! The most common types are walleye, smallmouth bass, northern pike, lake trout, brook trout, and crappie.

The pristine lakes offer plenty of opportunities for catching fish.

A Minnesota fishing license is required for the Boundary Waters Canoe Area. Licenses may be purchased online here or in person at many local businesses or canoe outfitters.

We caught a mixture of walleye and smallmouth bass using leeches as bait. My sister hooked a northern pike one afternoon, but unfortunately it snapped the line with its sharp teeth as she attempted to reel it in!

When fishing the BWCA, it’s important to only keep what you can reasonably eat. That said, we ate plenty of fresh fish for dinner during our journey. Often breaded & fried up with onion, lemon, beans and rice! Yum.

Wildlife Spotting!

One morning, on Gull Lake, we watched from camp as a large female moose came crashing out of the forest and swam across the bay to disappear on the opposite side.

After days of tranquil silence, it was a bit startling! I imagine that’s what Big Foot would sound like if he was coming to get you…

Other animals we came across included ruffed grouse thumping the ground to attract a mate, garter snakes, rabbits, loons, bald eagles, and angry beavers slapping the water with their tails as we approached.

Grey wolves, black bears, and bobcats also call the Boundary Waters home — but are a bit more difficult to spot.

Boundary Waters Tips

Most BWCA visitors “base camp” for a night or two near the entry points. So if you want to find less crowded lakes, you simply need to travel further out into the backcountry.

Even though we were there during the busy mid-July high season, we rarely saw anyone beyond Fourtown Lake.

Beware the mosquitoes! After the sun sets, they’re the worst I’ve ever seen. You definitely want to pack, at a minimum, strong bug spray and a mosquito head net. However a full bug shirt works wonders.

BWCA Permits

To visit the Boundary Waters Canoe Area, you need to buy a permit online. The BWCA is made up of different “entry points” near roads. You buy your permit based on which entry point you want to begin from.

Each entry point only allows a certain number of permits per day, so you’ll want to try and book a BWCA permit at least a few months before your trip — because they can sell out fast.

We began our adventure from Entry Point #23, Mudro Lake. It’s a popular one, so we booked our July permit in March. You pick up the permit in person from the closest ranger station to your entry point.

Boundary Waters Outfitters

If you don’t have all the gear necessary to canoe the Boundary Waters, it’s possible to rent gear from local canoe outfitters. Or even hire a guide to help you with navigation, camp setup, cooking, etc.

While we had most of our own gear, we chose to rent two Northstar kevlar canoes with paddles from Voyager North Outfitters. Highly recommend them!

Kevlar canoes are incredibly lightweight, which makes carrying them on your shoulders during a portage MUCH easier than aluminum ones. ★

This is a post from The Expert Vagabond adventure blog.

Helicopter Flight Over the Grand Canyon

Las Vegas, Nevada

The helicopter’s rotor fired up, whirring above our heads. Our pilot took the controls and we suddenly began to hover off the ground, rising into the sky above Las Vegas.

It was early in the morning, about 7am, just after sunrise at Henderson Executive Airport in Las Vegas.

Anna and I were flying out to the Grand Canyon with Maverick Helicopters after they’d picked us up from the Venetian Hotel.

I love helicopters. When I was a kid, I wanted to become a pilot (ok, I still do).

Scenic helicopter flights like this are one of the things I sometimes splurge on when I travel. Not only is it a super cool experience just flying in them, but the aerial photography opportunities are excellent too!

I was especially looking forward to flying over the Grand Canyon in a helicopter. After traveling the world for years, this was actually going to be my very first trip to the Grand Canyon!

The Las Vegas Strip

We’re Not Excited at All…

Impressive View of the Hoover Dam

Leaving Las Vegas

The journey started as we flew above the Las Vegas strip in Maverick’s 8 person ECO Star EC-130 helicopter. It was fun looking down on the casinos and landmarks of Vegas from the aircraft’s large windows.

Iconic hotels like the the Venetian, the MGM Grand, and even the golden (and gaudy) Trump Tower.

Flying away from Vegas, we entered the desolate and beautiful Nevada desert. A vast dry mountain landscape stretching on for miles. We passed over Fortification Hill, an extinct volcano that was formed about 13 million years ago as the crust around Lake Mead stretched thin.

Next it was on to the impressive Hoover Dam, where we circled a few times to admire this marvel of engineering and labor built during the Great Depression that employed 21,000 workers.

A massive 60-story wall of concrete and steel, the Hoover Dam provides electricity to cities nearby using the power of the Colorado River. When it was built, it was the largest concrete structure in the world.

The Vast Nevada Desert

Lake Mead in the Distance

The Valley Of Fire

Lake Mead & The Valley Of Fire

The Hoover Dam holds back the bright blue waters of Lake Mead, the largest fresh-water reservoir in the United States. It’s difficult to get a sense of just how large this lake is until you fly over it.

Lake Mead National Recreation Area provides many opportunities for boating, hiking, cycling, and camping within its boundaries.

Another landmark we passed on our helicopter journey to the Grand Canyon is the Valley Of Fire, a stunning & colorful valley in the Mojave Desert full of strange Aztec sandstone outcrops.

This magnificent red sandstone landscape was formed by great shifting sand dunes during the age of the dinosaurs more than 150 million years ago.

While flying over it was awesome, driving through the Valley Of Fire is a wonderful day trip or weekend getaway from Las Vegas if you want to get away from the city!

Flying Through the Grand Canyon!

Landing for Snacks & Photos

West Rim of the Grand Canyon

Landing In The Grand Canyon!

Finally, the West Rim of the Grand Canyon itself came into view. I knew it was going to be epic, and wasn’t disappointed.

The canyon was formed by the Colorado River cutting channels through layers of rock over millions of years, exposing colorful bands of rock that reveal a rich geological history of the Earth.

But we didn’t just fly over the Grand Canyon, oh no. We descended and flew THROUGH it, cruising past steep canyon walls on each side of the helicopter. So much fun, and perfect for sharing on this blog!

Then, as if that wasn’t enough excitement, we landed inside the Grand Canyon itself. A special remote area of Hualapai Indian Territory, perched on a cliff 300 feet above the Colorado River.

Here we watched the morning sun crest over the walls of the canyon with champagne and snacks. Hiking around to admire the natural scenery and taking photos before taking off again for Las Vegas.

Maverick Helicopter Flights

Grand Canyon Helicopter Tour

This was the Wind Dancer Grand Canyon Tour from Las Vegas. It includes a Grand Canyon landing with champagne and snacks.

While there are many different time-slots, we choose the early morning one to avoid crowds and for the pleasant morning light, which is usually better for photography.

The Grand Canyon helicopter flights are popular, and the landing zone can accommodate multiple helicopters. Because we chose the first flight of the morning, we had the whole place to ourselves!

Maverick offers other types of helicopter flights too, like a shorter Las Vegas Strip Tour (available both during the day or at night) plus a HeliYoga Tour. ★

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Packing Guide

Check out my travel gear guide to help you start packing for your trip. Pick up a travel backpack, camera gear, and other useful travel accessories.

Book Your Flight

Find cheap flights on Skyscanner. This is my favorite search engine to find deals on airlines. Also make sure to read how I find the cheapest flights.

Rent A Car

Discover Cars is a great site for comparing car prices to find the best deal. They search both local & international rental companies.

Book Accommodation

Booking.com is my favorite hotel search engine. Or rent apartments from locals on Airbnb. Read more about how I book cheap hotels online.

Protect Your Trip

Don’t forget travel insurance! I’m a big fan of World Nomads for short-term trips. Protect yourself from possible injury & theft abroad. Read more about why you should always carry travel insurance.
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Have any questions about my helicopter flight over the Grand Canyon? Have you ever been before? Join the conversation on Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter to share!

This is a post from The Expert Vagabond adventure blog.