I'll have a newborn in tow, so no five-day expeditions across the swamp for me.

We're planning to be near Waimea Canyon part of the time - obvious spot for scenery and drier weather. Any particular places to see / avoid? Any short scrambles I could do solo, without rope, if I get an afternoon to myself?

Nounou Mountain on the east side north of Lihue is a fun, short peak, with trail and some minor knife-edge scrambling. Takes about 2 hours at an easy pace.

Na Pali, of course.

We were only there three days and I wish we could have been there 3 years. So much to see. Have fun.

Agree with Nounou suggestion - a fun little climb.

In the Waimea area, we loved the Awahawahpuii (sp?) hike - down to a stunning overlook of the ocean. However, in Sep 1986, when I was last there, the western hikes toward the ocean had a risk of being socked in - if it looks foggy starting out you may or may not see anything at the end! The clouds broke for us and it was one of the most beautiful sights I have ever seen.

Never got to Na Pali, as my honeymoon trumped hiking!

http://www.summitpost.org/sleeping-gian ... log/152120

The Na Pali coast.

Anywhere around Waimea.

There's a sandy area to hang out around the SW part of the island.

+Do go on a helicopter ride if you have the time/funds.