Koloa, HI

A spectacular botanical garden in a lush valley on Kauai south shore that was used as a filming location for Jurassic Park. The guided tour takes you through themed garden rooms with massive Moreton Bay fig trees, exotic tropical plants, and water features. Kids recognize the Jurassic Park trees immediately and the scale of the ancient trees is genuinely impressive. The valley setting with the stream running through it is beautiful. The McBryde Garden next door offers self-guided tours through a larger area. Reservations are required for both.

A spectacular 4-mile round trip coastal trail along Kauai last undeveloped south shore coastline. The trail passes ancient sand dunes turned to stone (lithified dunes), dramatic sea cliffs, tide pools, blowholes, and a sinkhole with an ancient Hawaiian petroglyph cave. Kids are fascinated by the geological formations and the wild coastline. Humpback whales and monk seals are seen from the trail in winter. The trail is mostly flat but exposed to sun and wind. This is one of the most geologically interesting hikes in Hawaii.

Rated America Best Beach and it lives up to the hype. A natural tombolo (sand bar) creates two separate swimming areas: a protected keiki (children) pool on one side that is perfect for toddlers and a more open area for older swimmers on the other. Monk seals occasionally haul out on the beach which is a rare and exciting wildlife encounter. Lifeguards are on duty and the park has restrooms, showers, and a grassy area with shade trees for picnics. The south shore location means sunny weather even when the rest of Kauai is rainy.

A natural blowhole on Kauai south shore that shoots seawater through a lava tube creating a geyser-like eruption and an eerie moaning sound. Kids are mesmerized by the unpredictable eruptions that can shoot 50 feet into the air. The viewing area is safe and paved with a railing. The sound the blowhole makes as air is forced through the tube is haunting and tied to a Hawaiian legend about a giant lizard trapped in the rock. The whole visit takes 15 to 20 minutes and pairs well with a stop at nearby Allerton Garden.