Kauai Hawaii

History of Kauai

Kalalau Beach Trail in Hawaii

Kauai was originally inhabited by Polynesians between 500 and 700 AD. From archaeological excavations, it is thought that the Polynesians were originally from the Marquesas Islands as similar artifacts have been found in both locations. In Hawaiian folklore, the inhabitants of Kauai have often been referred to as Menehune.

A few hundred years later, around 1000AD, the Tahitians conquered the Menehunes and forced them into slavery, making them build temples and other features such as ditches. It was the Tahitians who created many of the legends regarding the Menehunes.

Captain Cook arrived on Kauai in 1778. According to his log, Kauai had around 50 villages with a population of around 30,000 although later missionaries estimated it was more like 10,000.

Geography of Kauai

Kauai is 33 miles by 25 miles. Kauai is the fourth largest island in the Hawaiian chain. Kauai is a volcanic island and Mount Kawaikini is approximately 5243 feet high.

General Information of Kauai

Today, Kauai has a population of around 56,100 people. Kauai is a wonderful island full of lush vegetation, wildlife and beautiful sandy beaches. Kauai has the largest number of native bird species in Hawaii.

Kauai is excellent for swimming and snorkelling although swimmers need to be aware of the rough water conditions at certain times of the year.

Climate in Kauai

The weather in Kauai today is:

Kauai has a variety of climate, depending on the location rather than the time of year.

Overall the climate is semi tropical but the Summer Trade Winds bring refreshing showers and keep the island from becoming too humid.