At 550 square miles and with a population of about 64,500 as of 2009, Kauai is among Hawaii's smaller, less-frequented islands. This means plenty fitness-related pursuits amidst a mostly unspoiled tropical locale. Kauai's Na Pali Coast, unreachable by car, is among the most naturally beautiful spots in Hawaii's island chain. If you want to remain active while vacationing in paradise, hike along Na Pali's cliffs, snorkel in the turquoise waters down below, head out to a resort-style golf course, surf the waves of the Pacific Ocean or kayak the Wailua River.
Snorkeling
The waters of the Pacific Ocean that surround Kauai are home to a wide variety of marine animals, including green sea turtles, monk seals, rays, eels and a vast array of fish. Snorkeling is one of the best ways to get up-close views of Kauai's marine life. You can join a guided tour boat, which will take you off the coast to snorkeling locations, such as the Na Pali Coast. Or just rent some snorkeling gear at one of Kauai's surf shops and head out on your own to locations, such as Poipu Beach Park, which has coral and lava rock formations just west of the main bay.
Golfing
Kauai is home to scenic, world-class golf courses set amongst lush, tropical landscape. Among the highlights of the Kauai golf scene are Kauai Lagoons Golf Club, Poipu Bay Golf Course and Princeville at Hanalei's Prince Golf Course. The Prince Course, designed by famous golf architect Robert Trent Jones Jr., sits above the ocean in Princeville on Kauai's North Shore. Poipu Bay Golf Course, also a Robert Trent Jones Jr. layout, has been home to PGA Tour events in the past and is located along the island's southern coast. Kauai Lagoons Golf Club, on the eastern side of the island in Lihue, is a Jack Nicklaus Signature course on the grounds of the Kauai Marriott Resort & Beach Club.
Hiking
Kauai offers hiking opportunities that will give you access to some of the island's most beautiful and secluded scenery. Kauai's Na Pali Coast is a 15-mile stretch of rocky cliffs on the island's northwest shore. For views of this largely untainted area, many people join day cruises and soak in the sights from the ocean. You can also hike to Na Pali Coast. Head to the North Shore and drive west until the highway ends, where you'll find Ke'e Beach. From there, you'll have several options; hike the trail west for 2 miles to reach Hanakapiai Beach, another 2 miles to Hanakapiai Falls or 11 miles total to reach Kalalau Beach.
Surfing
Kauai's surf spots can accommodate a wide range or skill sets, whether you're just starting out or are a veteran wave-rider. Hanalei Bay on the North Shore has a little something for everyone; experienced local surfers try to catch waves near the outer reefs, while the inner reefs produce smaller, calmer waves that are ideal for newcomers. If you are just starting out, take a lesson from one of the island's many surf instructors. You can rent a board and find an instructor at a surf shop. If you're unsure about the conditions in a given location, always check posted signs or ask lifeguards for direction.
Kayaking
Kayaking the Wailua River is a popular activity on the island of Kauai, and there are dozens of guides who offer tours of the river, as well as shops nearby that rent kayaks and gear. Wailua River is located on the island's eastern coast and stretches for 20 miles from Mount Waialeale in the middle of the island and through Wailua River State Park, with lush vegetation and waterfalls along the way.
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