Kauai is an explosion of floral glory.

Learn about some of the most interesting plants in the world, and experience Zen serenity within the quiet folds of Allerton and McBryde National Tropical Botanical Gardens in Poipu. You can take a self-guided tour, but you’ll learn a lot more in the hands of the gardens’ amazing guides; the guided tours also take you to more spots (the gardens are vast). Tours range from two-and-a-half to three hours.

Be sure to let your group amble ahead of you now and then so you can enjoy the hushed quiet. The tours are popular, so it’s best to make reservations beforehand. Reserve yours HERE.

Drive out to see a slice of the Na Pali coast. The Pu’u o Kila Lookout, with its beyond-words view of Kalalau Valley, is your final destination, but the journey counts just as much. In Waimea town, stop at shoebox-size Jo-Jo’s Clubhouse for some of the best shaved ice on Kauai, and pick up supplies at Ishihara Market. From town, take Waimea Canyon Drive (the views are better). There are lots of scenic overlooks, all stunning, but the Pu’u Hinahina Lookout (past the 13-mile marker) has views of both Waimea Canyon and Ni’ihau.

Can’t wait to get back in the water? Check out these Kauai dive sites.

Did you remember to bring your snorkel to Kauai? Check out Kauai's Top 3 Snorkel Spots.

Amazing hiking trails are everywhere, but wait until the end of the line. From Pu’u o Kila Lookout, the Pihea Trail has astonishing views of Kalalau Valley; it also takes you through the surreal strangeness of Alaka’i Swamp, the highest swamp in the world.

Celebrate your day with dinner at Merriman’s Fish House in Poipu. Owner and founder Peter Merriman is famous for his fresh farm-to-table cuisine.

Don’t return to your room just yet. Instead, drive anywhere away from the lights (easily done on Kauai), and look up at the stars. And if you really want stars, stay up at Pu’u o Kila Lookout. Says a local, “The stars up there are insane.”

Can’t wait to get back in the water? Check out these Kauai dive sites

Did you remember to bring your snorkel to Kauai? Kauai's Top 3 Snorkel Spots