Captain James Cook landed near what is now the town of Waimea in January,1778. Sugar is Kauai's main industry, with pineapple, papaya and beef also being important. Fruit, macadamia nuts, coconuts and hogs are also valuable commodities.
A single volcano erupted about eight million years ago out of the Pacific and Kauai was born with 555 square miles of land. All that remains of the volcano is 5,208 ft. Mount Waialeale.
Much of the island is impenetrable and it is very lush since their annual rainfall is about 500 inches. The rain together with wind caused torrents to erode gorges in Waimea Canyon of up to 3,000 feet deep which add to the magnificient beauty of Kauai.
Our favorite sights were the Kalalau Lookout at the end of Highway 550 and the Tunnel of Trees on the Maluhia Rd. (Hwy 520).
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