Kauai's lush tropical beauty beckons and repeatedly draws us back. Scenic and spectacular describes only partially what we love about this Garden Isle. Glimpses via air or sea, prior to landing, reveal dramatic facets of paradise that you'll want to explore further.

Mainland and inter-island flights land at Lihue airport, about a mile from Nawiliwili Harbor where cruise ships and inter-island ships dock. It's easy to pick up a rental car. Across the street from Lihue's air terminal, rental car lots are a brief ride on the free shuttle. Arrivals at Nawiliwili can call ahead for car delivery or a van shuttle to the same pickup spots.

Hawaiian Superferry proposes another option. Soon, the Alakai may ferry walk-on passengers plus those who drive cars onboard (conveniently stowing suitcases, oversize sports/hiking gear and other paraphernalia ready to go), from Honolulu to Nawiliwili.

Once on Kauai, a car seems essential. Ninety miles of coastline leads to 46 beaches: Choose by season and geography for various watersports, consider viewing time (sunset or sunset) for sightseeing. Roads inland climb up the Wailua River Gorge (east Kauai) and wind from Waimea (west Kauai) to the Kokee State Park and colorful Waimea Canyon, the mini-Grand Canyon of the Pacific. Scenic routes lead to spectacular viewing spots, relaxing hidden beaches and spa retreats, shops (island crafts, jewelry, coffee and tropical fruit plantations), historical sites and museums, or departure points for adventurous exploration.

Sheer Na Pali cliffs (17 miles) halt roadways, and most hiking, between the North Shore and the western beaches and forests. Na Pali's ocean-side caves and waterfalls - plus steep gorges leading into tropical rainforest valleys, hidden lagoons and waterfalls - are accessible via water or air. Helicoptor and small-plane tours depart from two regional airports: Port Allen (southwest) and Princeville (north). Other flights leave Lihue's main airport.

Depart Waimea or Port Arthur via zodiac rafts, catamarans, and sea-going kayaks for adventures on the ocean, inside caves (depending upon season, weather, and water conditions), and underwater snorkel and scuba dive. Also explore reefs off nearby Nihau (the "forbidden island").

Traverse inland rivers via kayaks, motorized canoes, and rafts. Ziplines glide over tropical trees and waterfalls. Bicycles, mopeds, motorcycles, beach vehicles, ATVs, and horses are available for short-distance rentals or tours to explore valleys, mountains, dunes, and beaches.

Explore Kauai ardently. Employ vehicles and use your feet. Hike, stroll, or meander  depending upon location, energy level and your personal style (as well footwear). But don't forget to occasionally stop, stay still, and soak in the essence of paradise! Sit, stand, repose or float. Wiggle your toes in the softest sand, feel sunny warmth or cool mist (or Kauai's incomparable combination) on your skin, open your eyes wide to vistas and sunsets, close your eyes and respond to evocative aromas and sounds. Explore and experience Kauai in a myriad of ways. Aloha!