Fact Sheets & Video - Hawaii

The Grand Canyon of the South Pacific

Waimea Canyon is known as the Grand Canyon of the Pacific and it's located on the western side of Kauai in the Hawaiian Islands.

Although it's a fraction smaller in size, and around 200 million years younger than the famous Arizona canyon, Waimea Canyon certainly is grand. It's approximately 16 km long and up to 900 m deep and is the largest canyon in the Pacific.

The best way to find out why Mark Twain dubbed this place 'Grand Canyon of the Pacific', is to visit the great lookouts off the Waimea Canyon Drive. The Koke'e Museum provides maps and information about the many great hiking trails around the canyon and in the Koke'e State Park where it's located. The Waimea Canyon is surrounded by the Koke'e State Park which has 45 miles of trails that turn through the canyon and the nearby Alakai Swamp. The elevation makes the air 10-15 degrees cooler than in the valley and by afternoon many areas are often shrouded in clouds.

To get the best view, a helicopter is the only way to see the true, pristine and stunning settings of this natural wonder. The 'flightseeing' tour delivers an ultimate experience as the helicopter dips into the canyon offering an unmatched view to those on land. Jack Harter Helicopters have been flying tourists around Kauai for more than forty years and provide tours over the canyon as well as the island.

Of all the amazing Kauai activities, the Waimea Canyon Bicycle Downhill is 100% downhill and is one of the best adventure tours. This is a truly fun and invigorating ride from the rim of the Waimea Canyon. While riding through one of the most awe-inspiring places on the planet, you learn about what makes Kauai so special.

Visit the Waimea Canyon to find out why Kauai's tropical beauty has appeared in more than sixty Hollywood films. There are more miles of beach per coastline in Kauai than on any other island. Kauai is also Hawaii's least-developed island. By law, no building here can be taller than a palm tree.

Further Information:

Hawaiian Airlines

Hawaiian Airlines fly from Sydney direct to Honolulu 3 times a week.

Special Offer - Honolulu PLUS Bonus Island.

Return Airfare to Honolulu plus your choice of flying to Maui, Kauai or The Big Island of Hawaii.

Prices From:-

Ex Sydney $1112 per person

Ex Melbourne/Brisbane $1292 for per person

Ex Adelaide $1452 per person

Ex Perth for $1612 per person

Prices are inclusive of taxes.

See your nearest travel agent or contact Hawaiian Airlines.

Conditions apply. For sales and ticketing until 18th September 2009

For departures now - 24 Sep 09 / 7 Oct 09 - 16 Dec 09 / 13 Jan 10 - 31Mar 10

Price is per person . Prices are inclusive of Government taxes and fuel surcharges & correct as at 10 Aug and subject to change without notice.

Limited availability. Travel restrictions and conditions apply.

Contact Hawaiian Airlines on 1300 669 106 or visit www.hawaiianairlines.com.au

Grand Hyatt Kaua'i Resort & Spa

1571 Po'ipu Road, Koloa, HI 96756

T: +1 808-742-1234

F: +1 808-742-1557

W: www.kauai.hyatt.com