If you're looking for glitzy resorts and ostentatious attractions, you won't find them on Kauai. Instead, this Hawaiian island is known for its relaxing beaches, rustic seaside destinations, and Kauai condos that will have you feeling like a local in no time.

Kauai enjoys warm weather year-round with distinct rainy and dry seasons. Visit during the summer for temperatures in the mid-80s and little rain, or visit during the spring for cooler temperatures in the upper 70s and moderate rain. Though the winter months tend to see the coolest weather and the rainiest skies, this is also Kauai's busy season, thanks to the winter holidays.

Fly into Lihue Airport, which offers several daily flights to the other Hawaiian Islands as well as several West Coast cities. Once you've arrived, you'll find that renting a car is the easiest way to get between Kauai condos and most of the island's attractions. Since the island has just two major highways, however, you'll have a tough time getting lost.

For one of Kauai's top places to relax on the sand, head to Po'ipu Beach, the island's most popular destination for soaking up sun, snorkeling, and boogie boarding. For a less busy destination, go to Kalapaki Beach, a quiet stretch of sand that's great for swimming, surfing, and sunbathing. Explore Kauai's natural beauty with a visit to Waimea Canyon State Park, which features a 3,550-foot deep gorge ideal for a driving tour or a lengthy hike. Head to Na Pali Coast, a 15-mile stretch of coastline where visitors can undertake a challenging hike, take a helicopter tour, or join a kayak tour. On a rainy day, head indoors to the Kauai Museum. Situated in Lihue, this small museum highlights the story of the oldest Hawaiian island through maps and artifacts.

In June, the Taste of Hawaii brings The Ultimate Sunday Brunch to Kauai. With dozens of chefs and several live performers, this is an event Islanders look forward to every year. In late July, get tickets for one of Hawaii's best rodeos, the Koloa Plantation Days Rodeo. Here you'll find everything from roping to bull riding to a petting zoo. This time of year also brings the Soto Zen Bon Festival, which celebrates Japanese-American culture. Take in taiko drumming performances, try traditional festival foods, and join in some Japanese folk dancing. In August, celebrate traditional Tahitian culture at Heiva I Kauai, which features dancing competitions for all ages, along with coconut husking contests and Tahitian food. To learn more about Hawaiian culture on Kauai, get tickets for the Kauai Mokihana Festival in late September. This weeklong event features a hula competition, craft workshops, and much more. Music lovers won't want to miss the annual Hawaiian Slack Key Guitar Festival, which gathers the genre's best for a memorable performance.