Having been to Hawaii, specifically the Big Island, many times in my life, visiting Kauai was a fun change! Known for its coffee, the Hawaiian island is very laid-back, lacking the urban development of Oahu. After landing, we stopped by Hamura Saimin, a small family-owned noodle restaurant. If you’re ever in Lihue, I would recommend trying it out! The service is very quick and their chiffon pie is delicious. Of course, my mom convinced my family to hike a “very short and flat” trail (we had to climb up rocks and trek through trees). After a demanding hike, of course we had to get some shave ice.
Kauai is home to diverse wildlife, but a particularly popular animal, chickens, were a daily sight. Other than chickens, we also saw a lot of water. The ocean is pretty rough, but it’s not unbearable if you don’t care about maybe getting mauled by a wave once or twice.
Overall, if the hustle and bustle of Oahu or Maui doesn’t appeal to you, I would plan a visit to the Garden Isle, Kauai.