Kauai is the oldest and fourth-largest of the eight major Hawaiian Islands. After surrounding yourself with the beauty that eons of rain, wind and sea action can create, you'll know why we call it "The Garden Island."

Kauai's biggest "city," Lihue, is where your adventure begins. Upon leaving Lihue Airport, you are faced with a big decision: turn left, (to the south) or right (to the north). If you turn right, the scenery is dominated by one color -- green. Small towns bordered by the sea surrender to miles of sugarcane fields. Before long, a bridge crosses the Wailua River, which bustles with activities ranging from waterskiing to boat rides. You might want to take a cruise upriver to the famous Fern Grotto, one of the most romantic spots on Earth and the site of many an Island wedding.

Princeville and Hanalei signal your arrival on the north shore. Beaches are the main attraction here, and Lumahai Beach, where the classic South Pacific was filmed, takes top honors for beauty.

Where the roads ends, one of the world's most stunning coastlines begins. The towering pinnacles and sheer cliffs are the stuff that dreams -- and movies -- are made of. South Pacific, King Kong and Jurassic Park all contain scenes from this wondrous expanse. A hiking trail leads 2 miles to the first valley, Hanakapiai, and then onward to Kalalau valley, in ancient times the home of a thriving community.

Farther west, the sleepy towns of Kalaheo, Hanapepe and Waimea are nice rest stops on your way to Kauai's undeniable highlight -- Waimea Canyon, "the Grand Canyon of the Pacific." Grand it is, so linger at the lookouts and on the trails of Koke'e State Park. The awesome colors of the canyon walls and deep peace of the forest will ensure you fall in love with Kauai.