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    24 Things You Must Do When Visiting Kauai, Hawaii

    The best Hawaiian island TBH!

    Arielle Calderon
    by Arielle Calderon

    BuzzFeed Staff

    So you're thinking of going to Kauai! It's called the Garden Island for its lush landscape and gorgeous sites. There's so much to do, see, and eat! Here are my top recommendations.

    Arielle Calderon

    1. First things first: Rent a car and drive to the Pu'u O Kila Lookout! You'll get an amazing view of the Nā Pali Coast.

    Arielle Calderon

    2. And on the way there, drive slow and get out of the car every time there's space to pull over. Waimea Canyon will be on your right and you absolutely CANNOT MISS IT! It's called the "Grand Canyon of the Pacific," and for good reason.

    Arielle Calderon

    3. Another great way to see the coast is by boat! Just know that it can get very rocky, so take preventative measures if you're prone to motion sickness.

    Arielle Calderon

    I did the Mid-Day Madness tour with Nā Pali Experience.

    4. The guides will take you to the famed Open Ceiling Cave.

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    5. And if you go early enough, you'll likely see some dolphins too.

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    6. If you're the adventurous type, make sure to hike the Kalalau Trail.

    7michael / Getty Images

    At the time of this post, it's currently closed due to the floods earlier this year, but the trail is expected to reopen in 2019.

    7. And if you're REALLY adventurous, and a bit of a risk-taker, do a doors-off helicopter ride around the island.

    Arielle Calderon

    I had pure anxiety for an hour, but it was seriously so cool. You get a unique perspective of Kauai and you get to see mountains and nature only visible from a bird's-eye view. I used Jack Harter for booking and it cost about $300.

    Pro tip: If you do the doors-off ride, take photos in burst mode. The wind is so intense that it distorts pictures. Taking in burst mode gives you a better chance of getting at least one good pic each time.

    8. For an incredibly amazing breakfast, go to Kountry Kitchen and get the macadamia nut French toast with coconut syrup.

    Arielle Calderon

    They are TO DIE FOR.

    9. And for lunch, go to Pono Market for some of the best poké of your life.

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    10. When you're fueled up, take a two-mile hike up The Sleeping Giant.

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    11. And while you're near the Kapa'a area, take a short walk to Hoopii Falls...

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    12. ...a drive to Wailua Falls...

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    13. ...and a stroll by Opaeka's Falls.

    Matt Anderson / Getty Images

    14. You should also make a stop at Keahua Arboretum to see the colorful eucalyptus trees.

    Arielle Calderon

    15. And when you need a caffeine fix, drop by Java Kai and sip a macadamia nut latte.

    Arielle Calderon

    16. If you're heading up to the north shore in the morning, pull over at Kalalea Juice Hale and enjoy a fresh açaí bowl.

    Arielle Calderon

    17. And when you need to just relax, go to Hanalei Bay and hang out on the beach.

    Sergiyn / Getty Images

    18. Of course, you'll need to cool down with a shave ice from Jojo's nearby.

    Arielle Calderon

    19. And finish the day with a visit to the lighthouse.

    Adam-springer / Getty Images

    20. When you head to the south shore, spend a day at Poipu Beach and go snorkeling.

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    21. And scout the area for sea turtles!

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    22. If you have time, stop in Koloa and look for the Spouting Horn. Also shop at the market nearby!

    Arielle Calderon

    23. Before you head back to the airport, have some Saimin from Hamura's Saimin Stand.

    Arielle Calderon

    24. And of course, you've got to wake up early to witness one of the most beautiful sunrises in the world.

    Arielle Calderon