To get a reasonable idea of what Kauai is all about, you probably need at least three days, if not a week, to savor its atmosphere and environment. The island's casual ambience encourages you to take your time.

One-Day Itineraries

It's possible to garner a sample of Kauai in one day. Connoisseurs of the island would cringe, but it can be done. One way is to take a day tour with a company like those offered by Polynesian Adventure Tours (539-9400). They'll take you to some of the must-see locations.

As an alternative, you might choose to explore one major area of the island, such as Waimea or Hanalei. With the general Lihu'e area as a base, for example, you might travel to the western part of the island with Waimea Canyon as a major destination. Stop in the town of Hanapepe for snacks and small-town shopping.

Another option is a journey to the island's east and north sides. Take a cruise up the Wailua River to the Fern Grotto with the Smith family (822-4908) and then continue on to the north coast to Kilauea and Hanalei. Whichever way you choose to go on your all-too-brief visit, you'll likely gain an impression you can file away for future consideration when you have more time.

Three-Day Itinerary

Day One: Relax and enjoy the local environment. Chances are, you'll be staying in the Po'ipu area or along the so-called Coconut Coast. Go for a swim, and enjoy some fine meals. Investigate shopping magnets such as the Poipu Shopping Village (3501- Rice St., Lihu'e), or the Coconut Marketplace (off of Hwy. 56 in Kapa'a).

Day Two: Spend a morning in Waimea Canyon and Koke'e State Park. If you're history-minded, stop by the Russian fort on your way near the town of Waimea or take a little detour to check out the enigmatic Menehune Ditch. (Keep in mind that while very interesting, there's not a whole lot to see of either.) Have a bite to eat in Hanapepe, before returning home to your accommodations.

Day Three: Venture off to the east and north coasts. Stop in Wailua for a cruise up the river to the Fern Grotto, where you'll likely be serenaded with the lovely “Hawaiian Wedding Song.” Proceed to the town of Kilauea and the Kilauea Point National Wildlife Refuge with its famous lighthouse. Continue on to enchanting Hanalei. On the way home, consider a stop at the Kai Guava Plantation (828-6121) in Kilauea or the Coconut Marketplace in Kapa'a.

Five-Day Itinerary

Day One: Arrive at your hotel and relax. Get ready for a few days of fun.

Day Two: Take a Wailua River cruise, visit the Coconut Marketplace. Start to pick up some speed. But not too much.

Day Three: Set yourself up with one of the many adventures to be had on the island. Take a raft or boat along the awesome Na Pali Coast, for example, ride an ATV, or perhaps try a little diving, fishing, or golf.

Day Four: Visit the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific,” Waimea, and enjoy its beauty. Travel a bit further to Koke'e State Park for some stunning views of the island's north coast. Your drive back to the major hotel zones can bring you through some of the smaller towns. How about a luau tonight? The Smith's Garden Lu'au (742-1234) are among the good choices.

Day Five: Have another casual day or select another activity to pursue. Care for a helicopter ride or some snorkeling? Having seen a lot of the island, your interest in its history might be piqued. Consider a visit to the Kauai Museum in Lihu'e. Enjoy a lovely dinner on your last night as you plan your return.