The Waimea Canyon in west Kauai is one of the most magnificent sites on the island. It was nicknamed the Grand Canyon of the Pacific by Mark Twain for a really good reason! The Waimea Canyon Kauai is the biggest found in the Pacific and visiting is one of the top things to do. The first look into Waimea Canyon is dramatic and impressive. It may leave you reeling as you witness the plunging rock faces on all sides and realize just how deep it is. Measuring one mile wide, ten miles long and close to 4,000-feet deep, the unfolding scene is breathtaking.

Thousands of years ago floods and rivers carved their way through Waimea Hawaii, flowing wildly from the pinnacle of Mount Waialeale. You'll get an amazing view of gorges, bluffs and ridges in the distance blanketed by siennas, lavender, roses and other vibrant native flowers. There are noticeable lines etched into the walls of Waimea Canyon Kauai experts say illustrate how the lava flowed and the different volcanic outbursts happening over many centuries in Hawaiian history.

There are several lookouts and Kauai hiking trails, suitable for both the advanced and novice hiker, that reveal fantastic panoramas of the canyon from numerous interesting aspects. The natural wonder is part of Koke'e State Park which comprises more than 4,000 acres with almost 50 trails that wind their way through the area and Alakai Swamp which is nearby.

There are two options for Waimea Canyon Kauai. The first is do it on your own which isn't difficult. Visitors can get a map of the canyon and surrounding area from the ranger station inside Koke'e Museum. Your hotel or Kauai resorts front desk can explain how to get there. If you have your own transportation make sure to fill up before you start the trip as gas stations are few and far between on Waimea Canyon Road. The park area at the canyon offers restrooms for visitors. If you opt out of a guided Waimea Canyon tour, make sure you head out in the morning as the canyon can be masked by thick clouds in the afternoon.

A Waimea Canyon tour can be a great choice if you prefer a guided tour and there are many options to choose from. A Waimea Canyon tour can include a trip to the canyon paired with other fascinating attractions like Opaekaa Falls Hanapepe Lookout and Spouting Horn water spurts 50 feet in the air from the lava shelf. Another popular Waimea Canyon tour is a trip to the canyon coupled with a trip to Wailua Falls and the Fern Grotto. It's fully narrated with important history about the areas and includes a stop for lunch at Poipu Beach. Most of the tours include round-trip shuttles and the cruise fare to the falls. A Waimea Canyon tour by helicopter is another exciting way to experience the beautiful area complete with a bird's eye view. You can count on approximately $10.00 per every hour of these Kauai tours but some are a little bit less or more.

In Waimea Hawaii there are plenty of things to see and do. There are several great Kauai beaches to swim at, the Kalalau Trail Lookout is a short drive and unique shops and restaurants can be found right inside Waimea Hawaii. Visitors will also find the ruins of an ancient Russian fort, many interesting buildings and plenty of galleries nearby in Hanapepe.

If you're planning on a self-guided Waimea Canyon tour note that you'll reach 2,000 feet during the almost three-mile hike downward if you want to explore but you'll have to make the tough journey back up. At the Koke'e Museum inside the park there is a host of exhibits on display. Rangers at the museum can help visitors determine the best trails to hike based on your interests and previous experiences. If you're in the area in May head over to the Banana Poka Festival, one of the most fun events in the park. Numerous family activities, local crafts and guided hikes can all be enjoyed. The Kauai Luau featured at the Eo e Emalani I Alaka'i Festival is one fo the best and pays tribute to a visit from Queen Emma in 1870. The hula performances are not to be missed!