Plantations were the core of Hawaiian life in the 1800s, the place where Polynesian, Asian, and European influences blended to form the unique local culture of contemporary Hawaii. ResortQuest Waimea Plantation Cottages, hidden away on the quiet, western coast of the Garden Isle of Kauai, is a nostalgic glimpse into Hawaiian life as it used to be. Guests are invited to revisit those days and to enjoy an experience unlike any other in the islands. This cluster of authentic sugar plantation homes, set in a peaceful coconut grove, has been carefully restored with period-inspired furniture and modern conveniences. Every cottage has a full kitchen and a front porch overlooking the grassy lawn, but each one also has a personality and decor all its own; the Hotel Rooms have a shared living and kitchen area. The rural atmosphere entices visitors to conscientiously pick fruit and flowers from the onsite gardens or spend lazy afternoons swinging in hammocks, strolling the black sand beach, or taking a dip in the oceanfront pool.

No trip to Kauai is complete without an excursion to the Na Pali Coast, and if you are staying on the West Side, Na Pali Explorer is a great choice. Their office is located right in Waimea town, and they offer raft tours of the nearby Na Pali Coast. Na Pali Explorer is the largest rigged hull inflatable in the U.S. It is Coast Guard designed, and is the best vessel for up-close exploration of the Na Pali Coast. Snorkel the Na Pali Coast, cave and beach landing (ocean permitting). Lowest sea sick count, and closest harbor to the Na Pali (Kikiaola)

If you drive up the hill from the cottages, you will get to the dramatic lookout into the Waimea Canyon. This beautiful canyon is a symphony of desert hues, and unlike any other in Hawaii. Continuing on past Waimea Canyon through Kokee State Park, you will reach the Kalalau Lookout, overlooking the famed Na Pali Coast. While the vista is impressive from land, it is truly breath-taking by air. A great choice to see Kauai by air is Air Kauai, located in Lihue near the airport. Since 1988, Chuck DiPiazza, owner of Air Kauai Helicopters, has been providing the highest quality helicopter tour on Kauai. Chuck and his elite group of hand picked, highly experienced pilots, strive to show our guests the hidden beauty of Kauai, in a helicopter equipped to the ultimate in comfort and safety. Safety is a primary concern for everyone, so our AS350BA & B2 helicopters are meti culously maintained, meeting not only the rigorous standards of both the FAA (Part 135) and the manufacturer, but also Chu ck's own high standards. It is noteworthy to mention that Chuck's helicopter flying career spans many thousands of hours in helicopters, with never an accident or incident

About half an hour drive from Waimea is the charming plantation town of Koloa on Kaua's south side. This small town is the home to one of Kauai's most unique activities, Kauai ATV. Driving comfortable new ATV's with protective gear on, you can explore Kauai's countryside like you never dreamed was possible. Kauai ATV brings out the child in everyone. Bring your group on a fun-filled exploration of Kauai's rugged backroads, complete with mudpits, waterfalls and spectacular vista. Kauai ATV; "Do Something Dirty!".