Hawaii has everything from shopping to volcano hikes, but it's known for its beaches, and even astronomers visiting the islands for uninterrupted stargazing will visit the coast at least once.
Developed for tourism but maintaining a rustic isolation, Kauai's beaches remain among some of the most popular of all the islands.
For those who have found one of the coveted Anahola rentals, there's some general information to know for planning an ideal beach excursion.
Called the Coconut Coast for its picturesque palms, the beaches along Anahola Bay have the isolation of the idyllic Hawaii vacation with a few modern amenities to ensure a perfect stay.
An offshore reef protects the waters to allow relaxing and safe swimming throughout the entire year, and a canopy of shade bordering the sand make for a great place to take children.
Parents can set up their towels and chairs just out of the sun and still watch their kids at a safe distance, playing in the water.
Picnic tables, restrooms, and showers are all available to compliment the day, and lifeguards patrol the waters on weekends and holidays, so danger is never too huge of a concern.
That said, occasionally high currents will affect the waters, which, like high surf and wave breaks, is possible for all beaches.
With its underwater flora and fauna, the bay has become a popular spot for snorkeling and scuba diving, but that too carries some cautions.
Rocks and coral promote a diverse and beautiful array of aquatic life-and also opportunities to slip or cut feet.
None of these should prevent oceanic explorers or concerned parents from visiting; they just need to be kept in mind to ensure a safe and beautiful day at the beach.
Another of Kauai's beach gems is Kapaa, located in the ancient Hawaiian district of Puna.
It is overlooked by the famous "Sleeping Giant" -- the Nounou Mountain in the shape of a reclining body -- and lies on the East side of Kauai, north of Wailua.
Kapaa is the perfect place to stay for a relaxing Hawaiian vacation experience.
The town is well known for its great shopping venues, making it the perfect place to pick up a few mementoes of your trip.
Choose from a wide range of aloha shirts, vintage maps, local art and hand-crafted jewelry at Kinipopo Shopping Village.
Water skiing and kayaking are just two of the most popular aquatic activities.
For those who love spending their time in the water there is also a water sports shop to outfit you with all the necessities needed for water adventures of all kinds! If you don't intend to have an active vacation, of course, you can simply relax on the scenic beaches and enjoy the wonderful weather.
Other nearby attractions include the Wailua Shopping Plaza, which has a choice of restaurants and an interesting antique shop that is well worth a visit, and the Coconut Marketplace, yet another retail center packed to the brim with Hawaiian keepsakes.
Nearby Wailua River is one of the area's most navigable rivers and is a 20-mile long stretch with two waterfalls.
Take an organized boat tour to experience the river and its stunning surroundings at its best.
Kapaa rentals offer a great selection of places to unwind after a long day of shopping, water sports or lazing on the beach.
With everything you need to ensure your vacation is as enjoyable and easy as possible, vacation homes really are the flexible choice for the modern holiday maker.
Staying in a rental home allows you to dictate your own schedule, prepare your own meals whenever you want them, and have a comfortable base for the entire family to congregate in at the end of every day.