Ep 6. Hidden Gems of Kauai

In season 7 episode 6 of The Travel Detective, host Peter Greenberg heads to the Hawaiian island of Kauai to uncover the hidden gems that many tourists often overlook. Kauai is the fourth largest of the Hawaiian islands, and boasts stunning landscapes, waterfalls, and beaches. Greenberg sets out to discover some of the lesser-known attractions that will help visitors make the most of their time on the island.

The episode begins with Greenberg exploring the Kalalau Trail on the island's north shore. This hike is not for the faint of heart, as it spans 11 miles and can take up to a full day to complete. However, Greenberg assures viewers that the stunning views of the Na Pali Coast are well worth the effort. He also recommends taking a guided tour to learn about the history and culture of the area.

Next, Greenberg heads to the Westin Princeville Ocean Resort Villas to check out the resort's sustainability initiatives. The resort has implemented a number of eco-friendly practices, including a food composting program and the use of solar panels to power the property. Greenberg also chats with a local farmer who supplies the resort with fresh produce.

Greenberg then takes viewers to Waimea Canyon, often referred to as the "Grand Canyon of the Pacific." The canyon offers incredible views of the island's lush landscapes and is a popular spot for hiking and picnicking. Greenberg recommends taking a helicopter tour to truly appreciate the canyon's beauty from above.

Moving on from the canyon, Greenberg visits the Kauai Coffee Company. Kauai is the only state in the U.S. where coffee is grown commercially, and the Kauai Coffee Company produces over 4 million pounds of coffee annually. Visitors can tour the coffee fields and learn about the roasting process before enjoying a cup of the freshly-brewed coffee.

Greenberg's next stop is Koloa Rum Company, where he learns about the island's rich history of sugarcane farming and the rum-making process. The company produces a variety of rums, including the award-winning Kauai Reserve Aged Rum. Greenberg recommends taking a tour and sampling their delicious products.

The episode concludes with Greenberg visiting the Lawai International Center, a hidden gem that few visitors know about. The center is home to 88 shrines that were built in the 1800s by Japanese immigrants. Greenberg joins a group on a lantern-lit tour to learn about the significance of the shrines and the history of the area.

Throughout the episode, Greenberg's passion for travel and exploration shines through as he uncovers some of Kauai's lesser-known gems. His recommendations offer viewers a unique perspective on the island and encourage travelers to venture off the beaten path.