KILOHANA MANSION

Gaylord Parke Wilcox was the nephew of G. N. Wilcox. Just as wealthy as his uncle, as a sugar plantation owner, but much more fashionable, he decided to build a house that would be called "Kilohana" (which means "unsurpassed") because he wanted it to be the most beautiful of all on Kauai. The mansion was built in 1935 at a cost of $200,000, the equivalent of $5 million today. But the tour doesn't cost a cent and you can even sit in the chairs. The furniture and artworks have been preserved as is. Two restaurants, the Plantation House by Gaylord and the chic Mahiko Lounge, have been set up in the former dining room and lounge, while bars, galleries and boutiques have sprung up throughout the palace. Make time to visit the property's beautiful gardens, which cover 14 hectares.

Don't miss the rum store, Koloa Rum, near the parking lot: free tasting sessions are held there all day! Kauai rum, which has only been on the market since 2009, is not exceptional but the tasting session is very lively and fun! It's a must-do but don't drink all the mini glasses because you might not drive straight on the way back, this particularly sweet rum is really treacherous, consume it in moderation... More information on www.koloarum.com

Families will enjoy the 40-minute guided train tour of the site