Why Kauai Is One of Our Favorite Hawaiian Islands
At Numinous Travels, we specialize in planning trips that connect travelers to the soul of a destination, and Kauai has soul in spades. Known as the "Garden Island," Kauai is one of our favorite Hawaiian islands for its natural beauty, laid-back energy, and commitment to sustainability. If you're dreaming of a trip to Hawaii that's immersive, low-impact, and a hotbed of locally owned businesses, Kauai should be at the top of your list.
A Nature-Lover's Paradise
Let's start with the obvious: Kauai is stunning. With more than 90% of the island blanketed in greenery, dramatic cliffs, and undeveloped land, it's a haven for travelers who opt for hiking boots over heels. Here you'll find bucket-list adventures like the Kalalau Trail along the Na Pali Coast, Waimea Canyon (Hawaii's version of the Grand Canyon), and kayaking down the Wailua River. Unlike its more developed cousins, Oahu and Maui, Kauai feels wild and raw.
Slow Travel, the Kauai Way
One of the reasons we love Kauai is that it embodies the essence of slow travel. There are no massive hotel zones or glitzy nightlife strips. Instead, you'll find sleepy beach towns like Hanalei and Kilauea, where time moves a little slower than the rest of reality. The island's strict building codes (no structure can be taller than a coconut tree) helps preserve the rural charm that makes Kauai so special.
Sustainability in Action
Kauai takes sustainability seriously. Many of the island's farms, accommodations, and tours prioritize regenerative practices. Local farmers' markets are a way of life here, and farm-to-table dining is the norm. At Numinous Travelers, we seek out the locally owned boutique hotels and eco-lodges that prioritize solar energy, water conservation, and native landscaping. Many of the hiking trails and protected reserves are maintained by community organizations or through volunteer efforts.
Support Local, Travel Better
Kauai is full of family-run businesses, artisan makers, and culinary entrepreneurs who embody the true aloha spirit. Some of our favorite spots include:
Bar Acuda in Hanalei for fresh island tapas sourced from local farms
Taro Ko Farm in Hanapepe for crispy taro chips
Kaua’i Juice Co., a sustainability-minded juice bar using island-grown produce
Monkeypod Jam, where small-batch preserves bring tropical fruits to your breakfast table
Locally guided experiences like Kaua’i Hiking Tours or Epic Hawaii Adventures, which emphasize respect for the land and native Hawaiian traditions