Kauai's South Shore

The South Shore of Kauai is all about the weather. Consistently warm and sunny, Poipu is idyllic in the winter months. Poipu offers an array of diving, hiking, kayaking, horseback riding, surfing and snorkeling. World class golf courses are common place in this sunny paradise. Another scenic activity is to walk, drive, or bike along the Koloa Heritage Trail, which offers 14 sites of historical or environmental significance. Spouting Horn, Kauai's natural blowhole and is a treat to watch: hugh waves hit the shore and force a spout of funneled water 20 feet or more up in the air.

Hawaii's largest coffee estate is located on Kauai's southside. Learn how coffee is grown, harvested and processed.

Another must tour is the Allerton Garden. Allerton Gardens is part of the National Tropical Botanical Garden organization, is where you'll find tropical fruit and spice trees, rare Hawaiian plants, and endless varieties of palms and foliage at the 186-acre preserve known as Lawai Gardens, considered the largest collection of rare and endangered plants in the world. Also nearby is McBryde Garden, a royal home site of Queen Emma in the 1860s, with tours that are absorbing, for gardening experts and novices. You might also spot the endangered green sea turtle at any of the overhangs or rocky outcroppings along the coast.