Varied vistas aren’t the only reason this island stands apart; there are anthropological reasons as well. Polynesian settlers of the Garden Isle were resilient warriors when it came to protecting their sovereignty and ‘āina (land), so Kaua‘i was never taken by force, despite the many attempts of powerful rulers from other Hawaiian Islands. Even though Kaumuali‘i, the last reigning king of Kaua‘i, finally reached an amicable resolution with Kamehameha in 1810, the noble warrior spirit remains a significant part of the unconquered island’s legacy.

Inaccessible regions still abound and nature is more commonplace than buildings, which, by the way, aren’t allowed to be taller than a coconut tree. Laid-back sleepy towns like Waimea and Hā‘ena abound and kama‘āina (residents) are often more inspired by the day’s surf than the daily grind.

The island is roughly the same size as O‘ahu, but its population is only some 70,000. Kaua‘i has one highway that circles its periphery from Kē‘ē Beach to Polihale State Park. The verdant valleys and dramatic emerald cliffs of the Nāpali Coast, however, remain disconnected from the rest of the island and exclusively viewed by foot, boat or air.

A rural atmosphere makes Kaua‘i the Shangri-La of outdoor adventures. Hike through misty rainforests of Kōke‘e State Park, into the dusty red gorge of Waimea Canyon or along the ragged coastline of Māhā’ulepū. Rent a kayak or stand up paddleboard and coast along the Hanalei or Wailua rivers that are fed by Mount Wai‘ale‘ale, one of the wettest spots on earth that averages more than 400 inches of rain each year. Swim at celebrated beaches, such as Hanalei Bay, set against the mighty Namolokama Mountain, or the perpetually sunny South Shore’s family-friendly, Po‘ipū Beach.

Kaua‘i’s quiet characteristics are also ideal for relaxation. Full service resorts around the island provide so many amenities and comforts that guests don’t have to leave in order to enjoy the island’s rehabilitating attributes. While weather is ideal year-round, keep in mind that rain is more consistent during the winter season when tides also pick up on the North Shore, whereas the summer is hotter and surf kicks into higher gear on the South Shore.