Taking a trip to the Hawaiian island of Kauai can get quite expensive if you plan lengthy tours, go to expensive restaurants and rent pricey water crafts. To save money, you can also engage in inexpensive activities during your vacation. By taking in cultural festivals and soaking up the beauty of the island's natural wonders such as parks, beaches and canyons, you can enjoy hours of fun without spending a lot.
To learn more about the Hawaiian culture, attend some of the festivals that take place across the island. Events include town celebrations, historical reenactments, art shows and culinary exhibits. Enjoy local music, watch a lively hula dance and marvel at colorful costumes. The Koloa Plantation Days Celebration and the Eo E Emalani I Alaka'i Festival are just two of the most popular events. According to the Kauai Visitors Bureau, most events are free or require a minimal admission fee.
Kauai Festivals
kauaifestivals.com
Poipu Beach, which has been called America's best beach by the Travel Channel, is one of the safest and most popular beaches on the island, according to the Hawaii Visitors and Convention Bureau. Enjoy the natural beauty of the beach and the crystal blue waters filled with wildlife, including humpback whales, Hawaiian green sea turtles and Hawaiian monk seals. Dive or snorkel to see the state fish, the humuhumunukunukuapuaa. Picnic tables, lifeguards, restrooms and showers are available.
Poipu Beach Park
kauaiexplorer.com/kauai_beaches/poipu_beach_park.php
At 14 miles long and 3,600 feet deep, the Waimea Canyon is known as the Grand Canyon of the Pacific. This geological marvel offers panoramic views of surrounding areas, deep valleys and the interior of the canyon. Plan a hike with 45 miles of hiking trails to choose from. Trail maps are available at the ranger's station. Visit Kokee State Park at the end of Waimea Canyon Drive to see wildlife and wildflowers, go camping and take advantage of picnic facilities and restrooms. Admission is free.
Waimea Canyon
hawaiiweb.com/kauai/html/sites/waimea_canyon.html
