The peaks lining the Na Pali Coast rise directly from the ocean, and their thick green vegetation frames russet-hued rock, making this stretch of coastline unbelievably scenic and one of the must-see attractions in Kauai. Hiking enthusiasts can explore the area on foot along the 11-mile (17-kilometer) Kalalau Trail that passes by Hanakapiai Beach—keeping in mind that you need a Haena State Park permit to access the path and camp beyond Hanakapiai Valley.

The massive, multicolored Waimea Canyon sits near the Na Pali Coast, and is one of the top things to do in Kauai. Take the scenic Waimea Canyon Drive (Highway 550) as it skirts the sheer drop-offs (opt for a driving tour so you can focus on the views rather than the road) and stop along the way to marvel at the views from the various scenic overlooks along the way. Many scenic trails into the canyon, ideal for hiking enthusiasts, begin from the main canyon road.

No Kauai first-time visitor guide would be complete without a mention of shave ice, a frozen dessert that’s unique to Hawaii. Shave ice is made of a fluffy mound of ice shavings that is flavored with your choice of sweet syrup. Shave ice stands are scattered across Kauai, but enthusiasts love JoJo’s versions that include extras like a scoop of ice cream or a haupia (coconut pudding) cream topping. Visit the original stand in Waimea or stop by the shops in Kapa’a or Hanalei for a cool break.

Kauai’s South Shore is home to a number of top island sights, and the headliner here is the Spouting Horn blowhole. This natural lava tube along the coast fills with the ocean’s surf until the pressure causes the water to explode through an opening in the coastal rocks, forming a jet that can reach up to 50 feet (15 meters). It’s a spectacular sight, and the hissing and roaring sounds of the escaping water have fueled many island legends.

Kauai is ringed by postcard-perfect beaches, so any Kauai sightseeing itinerary for beginners should include ample time to explore the sand and surf. Begin with what many consider the island’s prettiest stretch of oceanfront: Hanalei Bay. The sandy coast is framed by lush mountains to relax on, or you can take to the waves with a surfboard, kayak, or stand-up paddleboard at this watersports hub.

The velvety slopes of Mt. Waialeale remain lush all year long thanks to the ample rainfall that makes this volcanic peak in the center of Kauai one of the wettest spots on Earth. If you’re exploring Kauai as a beginner, you might want to skip the treacherous land hike. Instead, take in this incredible landscape by air. Helicopter and airplane tours take you above the expanse of the thick jungle and past the rushing waterfalls so you can snap souvenir photos from above.

Kauai’s towns sit along the perimeter of the island and are thick with boutiques selling everything from local arts and crafts to gourmet goodies. Old Koloa Town is perhaps the most charming, with its brick-red plantation architecture from the 19th century and a concentration of boutiques and eateries. Other towns worth exploring are Hanapepe, known for its numerous art galleries, and Hanalei, which backs the famed Hanalei Bay beach and has one of the island’s best food scenes.

The waterfalls on Mt. Waialeale are Kauai’s most spellbinding, but there are plenty of other spectacular falls on the island that are more accessible by land. Wailua Falls stands out as both among the most beautiful and the easiest to admire from a roadside overlook. Set along the south fork of the Wailua River, pair the waterfalls with a kayaking excursion that also takes in Fern Grotto and the Opaekaa Falls, another stunning yet easy-to-reach natural waterfall.

With its rich soil and ample rainfall, Kauai has long been a producer of coffee, sugar, fruit, and other tropical staples. A visit to these heritage farms offers a unique glimpse into the recent history of the island plus hours of fun with a variety of sights and activities. Kilohana Plantation, a former sugar cane farm, has a family-friendly train ride through the lush grounds, an adult-friendly rum distillery, plus a Hawaiian restaurant and souvenir shop to explore.

One of the top Kauai travel tips for newcomers is to dedicate an evening to song, dance, and heaping plates of food at a Hawaiian luau. These traditional ceremonies kick off with a lei welcome followed by the imu ceremony when a whole roasted pig is unearthed from the pit where it’s been slow cooking for hours. As you feast on tender pork and an extensive Hawaiian buffet, performers entertain with traditional music and dance (and sometimes spectacular pyrotechnics).