Kauaʻi is a volcanic island bursting with lush valleys, tropical rainforests, dynamic swamps, cascading waterfalls, emerald-covered cliffs, and captivating coastlines. Formed by volcanic activity roughly 3.8 million years ago, Kauaʻi is the oldest island in Hawaiʻi with the longest white sand beaches and unrivaled natural wonders. It’s home to the sacred Nāpali Coast, a 17-mile stretch along Kauaʻi’s North Shore known for its breathtaking beauty as well as Waimea Canyon, a geological wonder nicknamed “The Grand Canyon of the Pacific.”

With over 400 inches of annual rainfall, Kauaʻi is known as the wettest spot on Earth. Its tropical temperatures typically range from 69°F to 85°F while the air remains warm and humid. It’s commonly said that Kauaʻi has two seasons: dry and wet. The wettest months run from late fall through winter, but passing storms are the norm even during the “dry” season.

Lovingly known as The Garden Island, there’s no shortage of gorgeous tropical flora on Kauaʻi—sweet-smelling flowers, exotic plants, and towering trees. Explore forests of African Tulip Trees with flaming red flowers, canopies of towering Breadfruit and Coconut Trees, groves of twisting Banyan Tree branches, and fields of fragrant Ginger blossoms, vibrant Hibiscus hedges, and stunning spectrums of colored Orchids.

In Hawaiian culture, these plants serve as much more than beautiful sights. For centuries, they’ve served as symbols during sacred ceremonies, nourishment in traditional meals, and natural medicine for so many different conditions. A beautiful example is the Hawaiian Noni Plant, whose revered leaves can be eaten, juiced, dehydrated and ground into capsules and tea, or warmed and wrapped around aching body parts to impart the luxurious touch of nature’s healing.

From magnificent tropical birds to endangered humpback whales, Kauaʻi is home to some of the most diverse tropical fauna on the planet. In the crystal blue waters, explore spectacular species of exotic fish, sea turtles, endangered Hawaiian Monk Seals, dolphins, whales, and beyond. On land, encounter chickens, cats, dogs, goats, pigs, and 80 different species of tropical birds—21 of which are native to Kauaʻi.

Much like plants, the animals of Kauaʻi are also considered sacred. Sea turtles are an incredible example of this. In Hawaiian, Honu refers to the Hawaiian Green Sea Turtle, the only indigenous reptile in the islands. Honu encompasses the sacred guardian spirit of the turtle, serving as a symbol of wisdom and good luck.
 

Kauaʻi itself is a protected natural wonder, overflowing with stop-you-in-your-tracks sights and adventures. Feel one with the turquoise waters of Hanalei Bay Surf as you surf and paddle board with the tides. Swim and snorkel with the vibrant fish and majestic sea turtles of Anini Beach and Ke’e Beach. Soak in views of waterfalls cascading over the jagged cliffs of Wailua Falls. Explore endangered species found nowhere else on the planet at the Limahuli Garden and Nature Preserve. Hike through the lush tropical gardens and groves of the world-famous Nāpali Coast, where every turn reveals another glimpse of awe-inspiring natural beauty.

Sustainability is not simply a mission or responsibility in Kauaʻi—it’s a way of life. For centuries, native Hawaiians have lived off the food that grows in the island’s lush fields and the fish that swim in its seas—upholding ‘āina, deep respect and stewardship for the sacred natural world.

To no surprise, the unparalleled beauty of Kauaʻi has attracted infinite tourism, lending a seismic shift in the native way of life that began so many centuries ago. Now, native Hawaiians do everything in their power to preserve their conservation-forward culture—favoring local farmers, fishers, purveyors, and ways of life that nurture the natural landscapes of the islands. At 1 Hotel Hanalei Bay, we hold this ethos close to our hearts and aim to honor it in everything we do.