Ka nani o Kaua'i

Although the Hawaiian Islands are known for its beauty and breathtaking sunsets, each island has its own unique beauty and value that is held deep in the hearts of the Native Hawaiians.

On the island of Kaua'i, also known as "The Garden Isle," from mauka (meaning towards the mountain) to makai (towards the ocean), you'll see its lush green mountains and valleys and it's clear blue ocean waters.

On the West Side of Kaua'i, there's a small town called Waimea. This town is home to many small shops and businesses but still remains as a beautiful agricultural island surrounded by nothing but its natural environment like Waimea Canyon.

Waimea Canyon also referred to as "The Grand Canyon of the Pacific," is a famous attraction site on the Westside of Kaua'i. There are hiking trails and scenic overlooks where you'll spot plunging valleys that dip more than 3600 feet into the beautiful island.

Waimea is Hawaiian for reddish water, which is a reference to the erosion of the canyon's red soil. The canyon was formed by a deep incision of the Waimea River that arises from the rainfall on the island's central peak of Mount Wai'ale'ale.

It is said that mount Wai'ale'ale is the main volcano that formed Kaua'i which last erupted over five million years ago. This eruption created the entire east side of Kaua'i and is what gave the island its unique shape as well as the topography of the island. With lava flows that date back to five million years ago, Kaua'i is the oldest of the Hawaiian Islands.

Koke'e State Park which neighbors Waimea Canyon, offers around 45 miles of trails that allow locals as well as visitors to discover Kaua'i's pure wildlife. Heading over to the north end of the park, lies Kalalau Lookout and Pu'u O Kila Lookout which provides pleasing panoramic views of the vibrant green cliffs of one of the valleys of this breathtaking island beauty.