Private tour in Kauai Paul S
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Paul S.
5.0
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19
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4 hrs
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Ever since I was a little kid, I wanted to live in the jungle. I was so passionate about travelling, nature, and wildlife that my parents let me choose and plan family vacations to Costa Rica and Belize when I was 10 and 12 years old respectively. I have since traveled all 50 states, 16 countries, and 6 continents (I'm just missing Antarctica). I studied Hospitality Management at Cornell University with the dream of starting my own eco-tourism business in an exotic wildlife-rich tropical location. I am now living that dream and loving it! Kauai really is a dream location - the vast majority of the island is a wilderness of lush green mountains, waterfalls, extinct volcano craters, and the grand canyon of the Pacific. Beaches, sea cliffs, sea caves, and the magnificent Na Pali coast make up the coastline. Coral reefs form a ring around the island. But Kauai is so much more than just jaw-droppingly beautiful location. It is my home, and the home of 71, 000 other people. Kauai's history of importing workers from around the world to work on its sugar cane plantations (now defunct) has led to rich cultures and cuisines that complement the native Hawaiian culture and cuisine. More recently, people such as myself have moved here from all over the USA and the world (further adding to the melting pot and cuisine) because we are drawn to Kauai's natural beauty, waves, culture, food, and chill vibes. I feel so lucky and privileged to call Hawaii home now. My wife and I moved here in March 2016 from Washington State. People on Kauai say that the island either welcomes you or spits you out. Kauai has certainly welcomed us with open arms, and we feel blessed. We try to give back to the island as much as we can. I have coached high school wrestling here for the past 5 years, and my wife and I volunteer with the Kauai Humane Society and the Kauai Society for Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. I am taking a hiatus from coaching and volunteering now though that my wife and I just had a baby boy in June 2025. We also have an 11 year old daughter that we adopted in 2023. I absolutely love adventuring around the island with my children and seeing it all freshly again through their eyes. I believe variety is the spice of life. Some of the many things I love doing in my free time are hiking, biking, kayaking, snorkeling, jiu jitsu, ultimate frisbee, cooking, and watching Netflix. 10 years of experience as a tour guide on Kauai Bachelor of Science in Hospitality Management from Cornell University Lifelong passionate traveler (50 states, 16 countries; 6 continents visited) I am not a commercial driver. Generally, I meet guests at a set location and we simply walk and/or bike during the tour. However, I would be very happy to customize a tour for you that involves driving, in which case, I can accompany you in your vehicle. I run all tours though Paul's Kauai Hiking and Biking Tours LLC
Have a question or want to customize this tour? Message Paul S.
3–4 mile roundtrip hike up a mountain with sweeping panoramic views of mountains, forests, rivers, towns, and ocean. Most of the trail is shaded as you hike through forest before the views (and breezes) open up near the top. Expect muddy, slippery conditions in the forest. Once you emerge, the refreshing breeze and expansive views are invigorating. Cold drinks (carried by Paul) and local snacks (and/or classic favorites if you prefer) feel well-earned and especially rewarding. There are two trailheads: Nounou East (4 miles roundtrip, 960 ft elevation gain) and Nounou West (3 miles roundtrip, 800 ft gain). After booking, I’ll ask which you prefer. Both trails converge, so the most scenic final section is the same. The West trail is shorter, busier, and features an impressive Cook pine grove.
- Meet and Greet - Hike through forests up a Nounou mountain aka Sleeping Giant - Stay hydrated along the way with cold water, coconut water, and/or gatorade carried by Paul - Stop for snacks along the way provided by Paul -Enjoy the views, breezes, photos, and workout you have earned while hiking up above the forest -Return back down (and be careful not to slip) - Talk story with Paul during the hike and learn much more about Hawaii
Tell your guide which places matter to you, skip what doesn't, and tailor the experience for your group's needs. Not finding what you want? Message your guide to build something unique.
By foot
Nounou West Trail Parking Lot, 5708 Lokelani Rd, Kapaʻa, HI 96746, USA
I will meet you at the Nounou West Trail Park Lot unless we decide ahead of time to meet at Sleeping Giant: Nounou East Trailhead, Haleilio Rd, Kapaʻa, HI 96746
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If your tour is valued over $200 USD and booked at least 45 days before the tour date, you can book with a deposit!
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