Recommendations:

Lydgate Farms Chocolate Tour:  See history in the making.  Hawaii is the only US State that can grow the cacao bean, and there's a movement towards using some of Kauai's agricultural lands to build a cottage chocolate industry.   Steelgrass offers a tour of the farm, and a double blind chocolate tasting.  Heavenly.   If you have interest in volunteering at a harvest, email Henry@lydgatefarms.com.

Waimea Canyon: Kauai has it's own Grand Canyon that can be entered from the northwest side of the island.  It's truly spectacular.  

Na Pali Coast:  Stunning.  You can not drive to Na Pali.  You have to get there by foot, boat, or you can view by helicopter.

First Saturday Old Town Kapaa Art Walk:  It's really a big street party.  Held only on the first Saturday of the month.  There's dancing, antique cars, street food.  Very popular.

Kayaking in Hanalei: There might be other businesses that provide this tour. It starts as a tranquil trip through a small Hanalei river.  After you get your sea legs, the tours heads into the ocean, stops at a snorkel beach for lunch and then heads back.  Really really fun!

Kauai Hindu Monastery: Some of the most spectacular scenery on the island is located within the grounds of this Monastery.  Plan your visit a head of time and take the guided tour.  Don't just show up.  Quite often they have private retreats, and you won't be allowed to walk around.  It's also very important to bring bug repellant and to wear the proper attire when you visit.  

Farmers Market:  There is a farmers market every day on Kauai.  The locally grown food is so much better than what is sold in the supermarkets.  Try the apple bananas.  My personal favs are the 9:30 am Saturday morning in Hanalei and the 3:00 pm Wednesday afternoon in Kapa'a town.  If you happen to be on the southwest side of the island, try the 3 PM Wednesday market at Kukuiula Shopping Center with its fresh fruit and produce, freshly made soups, bakery items, lasagna, the pie lady, and grab and go food from the various restaurants. 

National Tropical Botanical Garden:  This one is mind blowing.  Book in advance and take part in the Allerton Garden guided tour and you will not be sorry.  Plus, it's right across the way from Spouting Horn.  A win win.  

Hanalei Strings:  (808) 826-9633 Call in advance for beginning Ukulele lessons at 6:00pm - no experience necessary and they will provide you with an uke.  There is a multi instrumental jam session to follow.  You can also learn to knit.  A string shop in the truest sense.  Hanalei Strings is becoming one of the cultural musical centers on the island.  Be sure to check their Facebook Page for upcoming shows.  Kauai has some amazing local talent.

Hawaii Magazine’s 14 Things Unique to Kaua’i