Kauai Recognized as a "Best of the World" Destination in 2017 by National Geographic

Today, National Geographic Traveler magazine announced the results of its coveted "Best of the World" list, which features 21 must-see destinations in 2017.

Kauai, Hawaii's Island of Discovery, is just one of three locations from the United States and the only Hawaiian Island showcased.

"It's a great honor for Kauai to be recognized by National Geographic Traveler and such an esteemed group of travel professionals," said Sue Kanoho, executive director of the Kauai Visitors Bureau. "With Kauai's tropical weather year-round, scenic wonders including the Kalalau Lookout, Waimea Canyon and the Napali Coast, diverse range of hiking trails, and rich, cultural history, the Garden Isle is an ideal destination for all explorers. Kauai allows travelers to rejuvenate their spirit, reconnect with family and friends and discover Kauai's natural beauty."

National Geographic Traveler's global network of editors, writers and explorers nominated the "Best of the World" destinations. The list will be published in the December 2016/January 2017 issue of the magazine, available on newsstands nationwide starting November 29. As of November 17, the listing is available online at http://www.natgeotravel.com/besttrips2017.

National Geographic Traveler is one of the largest travel magazines, captivating and entertaining millions, pairing stunning photography and storytelling regarding environmental, science and natural history topics. The publication seeks to push the boundaries of human knowledge, while educating its readers about the world and encouraging exploration and discovery.

As a brand, National Geographic works with with some of the world's best scientists, photographers, journalists, and filmmakers, to create engaging television series, magazines, children's media, travel expeditions, books, maps, consumer products, location-based entertainment and experiences for a global community. In partnership with 21st Century Fox, National Geographic also reinvests 27-percent of proceeds to help fund the conservation and education efforts of the National Geographic Society.

KAUAI – HAWAII'S ISLAND OF DISCOVERY

Nicknamed the Garden Island, Kauai is green and flourishing with lush flora that runs from the mountains to the ocean. Kauai offers more than 50 miles of white-sand beaches – more beach per mile than any other island in Hawaii. Other natural wonders include the 3,567-foot deep Waimea Canyon, dubbed "The Grand Canyon of the Pacific," and the 3,000-foot towering mountain cliffs overlooking the Näpali Coast along the northwest shoreline.

For information about Kauai visit http://www.kauaidiscovery.com or call the Kauai Visitors Bureau toll-free at 1 (800) 262-1400. Follow updates about Kauai via Twitter (@kauaidiscovery) and as a fan on its Facebook page as Kauai Visitors Bureau.

The Kauai Visitors Bureau is a division of the Hawaii Visitors and Convention Bureau, which is contracted by the Hawaii Tourism Authority (HTA), the state of Hawaii's tourism agency, for marketing management services in North America. The HTA was established in 1998 to ensure a successful visitor industry well into the future. Its mission is to strategic ally manage Hawaii tourism in a sustainable manner consistent with the state of Hawaii's economic goals, cultural values, preservation of natural resources, community desires, and visitor industry needs.