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Kauai is the "greenest" island as far as plants but as far as eco-friendliness, it's more lately known for the massive development and expansion of huge resorts and condos. Yet, we haven't given up on the Garden Isle yet as there are always options for traveling eco-friendly and enjoying this lush island with respect to mother earth.

First of all, make sure to spend your dollars at the small businesses and locally owned stores rather than the resorts and resort-owned businesses (you'll also save a LOT of money by following this practice).

Kauai does have a local bus line although it isn't designed for, and isn't known as, a popular visitor option. If you are real adventurous, give it a try (and you'll probably mix in some hitchhiking as that is popular). We haven't heard of this much, but maybe try carpooling in a rental car with fellow visitors? Craigslist or meeting fellow travelers at a hostel or campground is one way to find a group to do this with.

Kauai is one of the islands (along with the Big Island) known for its variety of eco-tourism options. To save a buck, a good guidebook can let you know how to enjoy most of these things on your own, for free. Of course there are exceptions like zip lines and boat rides, where you will need to spend some money to do the activity. Many companies advertise "eco-tourism" tours - ask them to support their environmental claims!

While you are enjoying the Garden Isle's beautiful nature, make sure to always take out your trash, help to pick up trash, and encourage other visitors and locals to do the same. Don't forget to bring an umbrella - Kauai is the Garden Isle because it gets plenty of rain.

More for Kauai Green Travel:
Accommodation - Sleeping Green in Kauai
Ecotourism - Green Tours and Eco-Friendly Tour Operators in Kauai