Nawiliwili is actually the harbor on the island of Kauai where the cruise ships dock. Once you leave the harbor, you will be able to move around the island and explore the scenery and do some outdoor activities that you may not have had the opportunity to do before. Besides sightseeing, there is kayaking, parasailing, bird watching and some adventurous activities to do on the island.
Snorkeling
Some of the most amazing sights are found under water in Kauai. The waters are warm, the tropical fish are colorful and coral reefs are home to hundreds of species of fish. Ideal location for a novice snorkeler in Kauai is Poipu Beach Park, which has a shallow and sheltered cove. Snorkel west of sand split or tombolo and on the far right end of the beach. Other beaches for snorkeling include Lygate Park, Anini Beach, Ke's and Tunnels. For those that are unsure of snorkeling alone, there are charters that take you to popular areas around Kauai for snorkeling adventures.
Hiking
Hiking on Kauai is a remarkable experience. Waimea Canyon is known as the "Grand Canyon of the Pacific" for good reason. The canyon is 3,500 feet down, one mile wide and 10 miles long in the middle of the island. Many of the hiking trails and lookout areas give you impressive views of the natural wonder. Another park for hiking is Kole'e State Park, which protects the canyon and has over 45 miles of hiking trails that run through Alakai Swamp and the canyon. If you are traveling by car to the lookout points and hiking trails, fill up the gas tank because there are no gas stations on the roads in this area.
Mountain Tubing
Everyone has heard of kayaking, canoeing and white water rafting, but on the island of Kauai, you can do some mountain tubing down the former tunnel and irrigation system for Lihue Plantation. A four-wheel-drive vehicle will take you to the starting point where you get an inner tube and a headlamp. The tubing takes you through the flumes and tunnels as the water and gravity continues to pull you in a downwards direction. At the end of the tubing trip, you are presented with a picnic lunch and a swim in a natural swimming hole.
Tags: hiking trails, island Kauai, Park which