Rejuvenate in Paradise

Forest Bathing in an Artist’s Garden

At the core of Hawaiian culture lies a profound reverence and deep respect for the ‘āina (land), as is indicated by the popular saying “aloha ‘āina,” which translates to “love of the land.” This philosophy influences the lives of many Native Hawaiians, as they have a strong connection to nature and a heartfelt appreciation for its rich life-giving qualities.

The abundant natural beauty of the Hawaiian Islands makes it an ideal location for shinrin-yoku, also known as “forest bathing.” Originating in Japan during the 1980s, this practice is a form of mindful ecotherapy that involves walking through a natural environment or forest to help rejuvenate the body, mind, and soul.

On eastern O‘ahu, join one of Phyllis Look’s Forest Bathing Hawai‘i tours. As Hawai‘i’s first certified forest therapy guide, she finds joy in connecting people with themselves and the natural world. Her two-hour forest bathing experience involves a gentle and mindful stroll through a garden designed and created by Hawaiian artist Hiroshi Tagami. You’ll also get to visit the on-site art gallery, featuring artworks by Tagami, Michael Powell, and other talents.

Or opt for the four-hour experience that includes forest bathing, a hike, and guided cultural insight. During the first half-mile of the hike through a eucalyptus forest, the guide shares mo‘olelo (stories) about the ancient Wai‘anae mountains. The pace then slows during the next half-mile, during which you’ll be presented with several optional sensory “invitations” to deepen your connection with nature. The walk concludes with a tea ceremony overlooking some unexpected views, before returning to the camp with a renewed sense of aliveness.

Tranquil Temple Visit in a Lush Valley

An air of serenity and peace radiates throughout the Valley of the Temples. Nestled in a lush basin on O’ahu’s Windward Coast, this sacred site is the final resting place for many of Hawai‘i’s deceased. Behind a maze of cemeteries sits the majestic centerpiece, Byodo-In, a scale replica of a 900-year-old temple in Uji, Japan. This impressive feat of architecture—made entirely without nails—houses an 18-foot-tall golden Buddha, before which visitors can light incense and pray.

The surrounding temple grounds are rich with nature, adding to the zen-like ambiance. Peacocks and black swans roam free in the gardens while turtles sunbathe by the koi-filled pond. As you stroll around the serene site, notice the resonant drone of the bon-sho (sacred bell), rung by visitors before they enter the temple—believed to bring happiness, blessings, and longevity. And for added zen, visit the meditation pavilion, behind Byodo-In. This tranquil space, away from the crowds, is the perfect place to relax, meditate, or simply admire the stunning views.

Honeybee or Chocolate Tour on a Local Farm

Kaua‘i, also known as the Garden Isle, is the oldest of the Hawaiian Islands, and is abundant with tropical rainforests, emerald-green mountains, and diverse plant life. Spending time in nature, appreciating the ‘āina, and learning about its natural resources, can be a rich and rejuvenating experience.

Discover some of the island’s natural gifts—chocolate and honey—with a visit to Lydgate Farms, a 46-acre cacao estate on eastern Kaua‘i. Operated by a fifth-generation family, the Lydgates regard themselves as custodians of the land, employing sustainable agricultural practices to uphold mālama ‘āina (care for the land).

During the chocolate farm tour, learn about cacao fruits, native plants, and tropical flowers. There is also an opportunity to experience Hawai‘i-made chocolate and taste locally grown fruits.

Or join their Inside the Hive honey and bee tour, where you’ll learn about beekeeping and the steps involved to create this naturally sweet delicacy. You’ll even get to don a protective bee suit, peek inside a busy beehive, and discover the fascinating world of Apis mellifera—the honeybee. And, of course, tasting honey fresh from the comb makes this tour all the sweeter.

Nāpali Coast Visit, by Sea or Air

Along Kaua‘i’s rugged northern shore lies one of nature’s finest masterpieces: the Nāpali Coast. Spanning approximately 17 miles, this mountainous shoreline features cathedral-like cliffs that are best appreciated by sea or air. A visit to the Nāpali Coast, whether by boat or plane, is likely to evoke a sense of awe, inner calm, and deeper connection to Hawai‘i’s nature-rich ‘āina.

Kaua‘i’ Sea Tours offers adrenaline-fueled raft tours on speedy and nimble Zodiac rafts. The Nā Pali Beach Landing Adventure, lasting more than six hours and available from May to October, allows you to explore Nāpali’s majestic coastline, waterfalls, and sea caves up close. Along the way, keep your eyes peeled for spinner dolphins and sea turtles. The highlight of the trip (weather dependent) is an exclusive beach landing at Nu‘alolo Kai—an ancient Hawai‘i fishing village accessible only by boat and with a special permit.

With more than 70 percent of Kaua‘i being unreachable by land, the ultimate way to discover the island’s breathtakingly beautiful scenery is from the sky. Mauna Loa Helicopter Tours offers a one-hour private Kaua‘i experience designed for two to three passengers. A once-in-a-lifetime experience, this soul-rejuvenating helicopter tour provides a rare opportunity to view Manawaiopuna Falls, also known as the Jurassic Falls, Olokele Canyon, Waimea Canyon—often referred to as the Grand Canyon of the Pacific—and the stunning Nāpali coastline.