Kaua'i is synonymous with warm gentle tradewinds, gently lapping waves and lush tropical greenery. The best of Kaua'i, however, cannot be seen from the pool chaise - the allure of the island's natural beauty will have you off that comfy beach chair faster than a Tahitian dancer's hips can move. Take a few moments to consider all your options of how best to explore the Garden Isle and you're sure to reap memories for a lifetime.

By Air
With one main road not quite encircling the whole island, it's no wonder there are sights to be seen inaccessible by rental car. Thankfully, helicopter, hang-gliding and fixed-wing aircraft tour options abound. Weather and visibility permitting, it's the only way to see the spectacular aerial views of Wailua Falls, Waialeale Crater (considered to be the wettest spot on Earth), Waimea Canyon and the Na Pali Coast.

One more way to catch air (and an adrenaline rush!) on Kauai: zooming high above the forest canopy on a zipline.

By Land
If you prefer to keep your feet on the ground, you can always explore on your own in a rental car, which will take about a day. Ready for a bit more adventure (and bragging rights with the folks back home...)?

Try bicycling down Waimea Canyon road or through picturesque small towns like Hanapepe, which boasts a self-guided tour. Maps for the tour are available for a nominal fee at most stores in Hanapepe, which prides itself as being the hometown of Disney's "Lilo & Stitch." The tour will take you across Kaua'i’'slongest suspension bridge, past historic buildings and through the art capital of Kaua'i; Friday night is art night with numerous businesses offering weekly specials and festivities.

Overindulged at the lu'au last night and need to work off a few extra calories? Try hiking the various paths in Waimea Canyon or along the Na Pali Coast from Ke'e (just past Hanalei). It's slow going but offers some tremendous lookout points.

There are also several horseback and ATV outfitters to choose from, as well as jeep/Hummer tour options. Reality check: Keep your physical condition in mind when considering strenuous activities, to prevent injury. There are always ways to take the road more easily traveled - land tours in air-conditioned vehicles and day-tripping with local guides are great ways to relax as you acquaint yourself with the true Kaua'i.

Another leisurely way to explore Kaua'i and its history is at Kilohana, located just west of Lihu'e off Hwy. 50. The living museum offers a glimpse of Kaua'i's plantation days with a conductornarrated tour on its narrow-gauge railway that winds through 100 acres of plantings and livestock.

By Water
Some of the best times you'll ever have will be spent in or on the water, but there's so much more to do than swim at the beach. Think snorkeling, SCUBA, kayaking, sailing, surfing, whalewatching (in season) and sport fishing. For the adventurous, view the Na Pali Coast from off-shore on a kayak, charter boat or high-speed inflatable. Just be ready to catch your lower jaw as it drops in awe!

Some words of caution: Kaua'i is not a theme park; a bit of preparation before you embark on a day of adventuring can prevent discomfort (take along a jacket and lots of water), pain (always use sunscreen and a hat) and even serious injury (don't overestimate your ability and don't explore remote areas alone). Always watch the ocean and shoreline a bit before entering, and pay attention to ocean warning flags and lifeguards.

Never, never turn your back to the ocean; if you see locals staying out of the water, don't go in. One last word of advice: Unless you want to be mistaken for an ula (lobster), use sunscreen with at least 30 SPF, even if you don't think you'll burn (The sun is stronger here than anywhere on the continent!).