Apps, airlift and activities highlight the latest Kauai news, which might provide just the right enticement for travelers who are ready to ditch the cold and follow the sun.
"Kauai is the perfect remedy for the winter blues," said Kauai Visitors Bureau executive director Sue Kanoho. "Our diversity of outdoor activities combined with Kauai's incredible natural beauty and idyllic serenity allow travelers to unwind, relax and re-charge their batteries."
Check out the following Kauai updates and start making those vacation plans.
Airlift On The Rise
Alaska Airlines is now offering four nonstop flights weekly between Portland, Ore., and Lihue Airport on Kauai. The airline is also launching nonstop service between San Diego and Kauai starting on June 7. It will begin as a daily flight until Aug. 24, after which it will operate four times weekly. www.alaskaair.com
Kauai Beach App
A new iPhone app called the Kauai Beach Guide provides information on the island's many strands of sand including location, activities, safety, facilities, history, marine life and ocean and weather reports. Its interactive GPS-enabled map is a plus. The app is available for 99 cents from iTunes or the guide's website. www.beachtoolz.com
Kauai Beach Resort Upgrade
The oceanfront Kauai Beach Resort has gone green by installing 2,400 photovoltaic panels and enhancing its recycling, waste removal and LED lighting programs. Other added perks include property-wide Wi-Fi access, new pool umbrellas and revamped menus at Naupaka Terrace and Shutters Lounge. www.kauaibeachresorthawaii.com
Kauai Museum Paina (Feast)
On the first Friday of each month, Kauai Museum presents its new Hawaiian Paina, with food and live Hawaiian music. Set in the courtyard from 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m., it costs $15 per adult and $8 per child. Also on first Fridays, clients can join a 10 a.m. walking tour of the historic County Building led by a councilman. www.kauaimuseum.org
Koloa Zipline Debut
The new Koloa Zipline has taken off with eight lines on the south side of the island. Its 2,500-foot-long Waita line is the longest on Kauai and glides over Hawaii's largest reservoir. The entire course is one-and-one-half miles long and is located on Grove Farm land that offers views of a variety of ecosystems. www.koloazipline.com
Outfitters Kauai Tandem Zips
In Fall 2012, Outfitters Kauai debuted three new tandem ziplines from 800-1,200 feet long that pass over three separate waterfalls on Kipu Ranch. Incorporating Outfitters Kauai's existing zipline course, the new lines highlight spectacular views as guests soar side-by-side over lush valleys. www.outfitterskauai.com
The Details
Kauai Visitors Bureauwww.gohawaii.com/kauai
