KAUA’I

The oldest of the major Hawaiian Islands at 6 million years old. It is formed by a single volcano and believed to be the original island populated by Polynesians. It is the only island not conquered by Kamehameha the Great when he established the Hawaiian Kingdom. It is called the “Garden Isle.”

• Hanalei Valley - A National Wildlife Waterfowl Refuge

• Mehehune Fishpond - A 900-foot fishpond said to be the handiwork of mythical Hawaiian elves built in one night over 1,000 years ago

• Lihue Lutheran Church - Built in 1881 by German immigrants after their long voyage across the sea; this experience is reflected in the church’s architecture: the floor slants like the deck of the ship; the balcony is the Captain’s Bridge; the ceiling is like the bottom of the ship; the lights are the ship’s lanterns; and the pulpit is the Forecastle

• Hikinaakala Heiau - Translated as “rising of the sun,” it was at this temple, built around A.D. 1300, that the dawn was celebrated with prayers and chants