Best Historic Sites in Kauai

Legend has it that an industrious race of small-statured peoples once inhabited the islands, predecessors to the Polynesians who now populate the archipelago. Known as the menehune, they were master craftsmen who could build with great skill and speed. This fish pond was supposedly constructed by them at the request of a prince and princess, who were given the dictate that no one could watch them work. The order was disobeyed, and the menehune fled, leaving the pond to be completed by human workers. The Hawaiian name for the pond, Alekoko, means "rippling blood" and is said to commemorate the menehune washing their hands (cut by lava rock) in the waters. N.B. The fishpond is on private property and is currently overgrown and not easily accessible.

Just north of Waimea Canyon, inland from the Na Pali Coast, lies this rugged state park, spread across 4345 mountainous acres. Especially popular with nature lovers, the park offers terrific scenery and plenty of outdoor activities, from hiking to pig hunting to trout fishing (with pre-arranged licenses). Temperatures at this elevation are a bit cooler than elsewhere on the island, so you'll want to dress accordingly. Plus, nature trails crisscross the landscape, and camping is available. The park also features a lodge, museum, and visitors center where you can check park conditions before venturing onwards.

This sugar-cane estate, established in 1864, was one of the island's first and has been preserved for the future by original owner George Wilcox's descendants. The lush grounds host several buildings, including the main house, workers' homes, and the cottage that was George's own private domain. Tours of the complex provide a glimpse into the life of the prosperous and include period furnishings and a wide collection of artifacts and accessories. Knowledgeable guides provide fascinating details about the estate's past and its intriguing inhabitants. Tours must be booked at least 24 hours in advance.

In its heyday, this grand, 1930s-era mansion was the focal point of a successful sugar-cane plantation. Today, the Tudor-style, 16000-square-foot home has been restored to its original glory and houses galleries, boutiques, and the historic train. Visitors may wander its halls with their rich detailing and explore the cottages that lie on the estate's grounds. In addition, 22 North gourmet food fit for a locovore, and local artwork and crafts from on-site shops make ideal souvenirs. You'll also find Kauai's only rum distillery and a ceramics shop where you can make your own pottery to ship home.

Preserved in this museum's collections are the story of Kauai, detailed in artifacts, exhibits, and photographs. Two buildings showcase items from the era preceding Western contact as well as the plantation period. There's also a focus on the influx of various ethnic peoples who came to labor in the fields. Royal garments, native handicrafts, exotic shells, model ships, and documentary images are spread throughout the complex, which also offers guided tours, a cafe, and a gift shop.

Koloa has the honor of being Kauai's first town devoted to sugarcane, and its history, which dates from the 1830s, is still evident today. The charming settlement, located in southern Kauai, boasts a wealth of fascinating shops and restaurants, which call to visitors as much as do the remnants of the sugar mill and the Koloa History Center. Wander about, checking out the historic structures, and try to be here for Plantation Days in July, when culture and history are celebrated. The tree tunnel, a stretch of road lined with arching eucalyptus trees, leads into town from the eastern coast.

Perched on a point high above the sea, this quaint lighthouse (built in 1913) once had the capacity to send a shaft of light 90 miles into the night. These days, its original "clamshell" lens has been replaced by a smaller, less powerful light that local sailors on the North Shore still find quite useful. Views from the point are stunning, and a large contingent of native fauna delights visitors with its presence. Wildlife sanctuaries are located nearby, providing a measure of safety for birds, seals, and other creatures. A visitors center is available as well.

On the very site of an ancient Hawaiian village, this modern-day equivalent has been erected to teach visitors about the islands before Western contact. The compound, lying along the Wailua River, showcases (replicated) homes and community buildings, including those used by the chief and those devoted to storing herbal remedies. Visitors may also catch demonstrations of cloth-making, agriculture, and poi-making and learn about early religion and social interaction. Educational and enlightening for the whole family.

Although you'll have to plan ahead to visit this intriguing museum, you should definitely make a point to fit it in to your itinerary. Constructed in 1837 as a home for Christian missionaries, the structure eventually served as the center of a farm for the notable Wilcox family. Its spare, beautiful furnishings and selection of period artifacts and memorabilia provide insight into life in Kauai in the 19th century. You'll also find carefully kept grounds that harken back to past days.

In Hawaii's storied past, before language was codified, the most promising, gifted hula dancers gathered at this venerated place at the edge of the sea to refine their art and showcase their skills. The temple's stoneworks were their training ground, where they perfected the means of oral and visual storytelling. The place is still believed to be sacred, and visitors are asked to respect the site. Location and views are singularly beautiful.