As we tell our guests almost daily, "this is your vacation". So… everything is optional. It’s our pleasure to provide a fun-packed program for every guest, no matter the age. But it’s your job to decide how much or how little of it you want to experience. That’s why we’ve included the following list of activities.
As always, we call our two excursion days, “Ooooo” days, (for, “Outrageous-Ozark-Ohana-Optional-Outings”.) Take a moment now to pause and say the word, “Ooooo!” Did you say it like you meant it? Good—because we believe these two days will provide some of the best memories of your family vacation. Here are a few snippets that should help you prepare for your stay on the island.
The Hillbilly Lobster Hunt: A tradition since 2007! We believe it’s a crime to come to the Ozarks and not do as the Native Americans once did in these here hills. We’re talking canoeing, folks, and we think everyone ought to sign up for this playful, pre-dawn journey up Roark Creek. You’ll be guided by two of our most whimsical natives, pampered by our Hawaiian Hillbilly chef, and given the opportunity to top it all off with a thirty-foot plunge into water so “refreshing” it hovers slightly above solid form. In between all this, we’ll hunt for the elusive Hillbilly Lobster, catch live crawdads, skip rocks, sing songs, take pictures, play games, and become natives. Don’t miss it. (And you will… if you’re not at Whitecap’s Wharf by 6:00 a.m.)
The Rainbow Descent: This afternoon family fishing trip begins right after lunch with a short pontoon or van ride to the headwaters of beautiful Taneycomo Lake. There, you and yours will be dropped off with your canoes, your gear, and your lunch for several hours of trout fishing, paddling, swimming, tanning, and forming rich memories. You have the afternoon to make this 2-mile trek on open water. And if you’re skilled fishermen, you may just capture a Taneycomo treasure. Good luck!
Martin’s Point Tropical Holiday: This gem of an adventure features skiing, tubing, knee and wake-boarding and guaranteed family bonding. For those who want to experience one of America’s most gorgeous lakes, this trip is for you.
Hawaiian Juff Blumping: Yes, you heard us correctly. We said, “juff-blumping”, and it is not to be confused with “bluff-jumping”. We don’t do anything the “typical” way around here. So, if you like heights, and you’re even fonder of “lowghts”, then you’ll love this trip to Lake Tablerock’s famous bluffs, where you can juff-blump from heights to lowghts ‘til your heart’s content. Bring your video camera.
Diamond Head High Elements Course: This is our onsite ropes course and zipline. Normally used as part of our Low Tide youth program, it is available to families during many of our afternoons, and occasionally to parents only. Those who elect not to leave K-Kauai property on “Ooooo” days may want to sign up for a session on Diamond Head. It will test your courage and build your character. There is no weight limit to our ropes course, but guests must be 8 yrs old to do Diamond Head (low level). And if they want to do the upper level, they must be tall enough to clip into our cables. (Most 8-yr-olds are able to do so.)
Diamond Head Climbing Wall: Climb our 30-foot rock wall, and take it to the top, if you dare! Perfect activity to fill an afternoon on the island. No weight limit, and no age limit. But tons of fun!
Bonzai Zipline: The usual way down from Diamond Head. Those who are interested in “zipping” without all the preliminaries of our ropes course are welcomed to sign up for Bonzai. It’s the only way to fly! (Weight limit: 250 lbs. Age limit: 6 yrs old)
Hiking: Bring the history of Dogwood Canyon to life on a self-guided, paved trail that follows the gorgeous canyon floor. Dogwood Canyon
Fly-fishing: At Dogwood Canyon. This adventure takes you into sparkling spring fed water, which is home to beautiful rainbow trout. This is a catch and release fishing program. No license or stamp required. Dogwood Canyon
Biking: At Dogwood Canyon. Let the wind blow through your hair while you enjoy a comfortable, family ride through this truly breathtaking canyon. Dogwood Canyon
Horseback Riding: Enjoy a scenic leisurely ride. Two options available: Big Cedar Lodge, 12 people per hour. Or Dogwood Canyon, 6 people per hour.
Taneycomo Pontoon Jaunt: Take your family and friends aboard a pontoon boat for 2-hours of cruising, sunning, fishing, and swimming. The whole lake is yours! 12 people or 1500 lbs per boat. Reservations only. We provide the driver.
Barn Swinging and Paintball: Barns aren’t just for cows anymore! With this offsite adventure, you’ll be swinging from the rafters—(literally!)—on indoor and outdoor swings. Groups of 15 or more - www.swingsandpaintball.com (Doennig Swings in Ozark, MO)
Silver Dollar City: You have a great past ahead of you! Travel back in time to the simplicity of the 1880’s America – with demonstrating craftsmen, unique shops, live shows, delightful restaurants, rides and attractions. Prices are significantly below walk-up rates.
White Water: The Beach within Reach! Splashtacular events await your entire crew! Branson’s only outdoor water park with water blasters and super soakers, to high tides and speed rides. Prices are significantly below walk-up rates.
Sporting Clays: This is a walk-thru, 100-target course that will stimulate game hunting with crossing targets, rising targets, a rabbit on the ground or fleeing targets… using an open choke shotgun. www.ozarkshooters.com
"The I'm Third Way": Is a mini-mission experience to KAA for families who want to serve others in the midst of their vacation. Come prepared to rake, shovel, paint, wash dishes, and share Christ’s love with the kids at our inner-city kamps. This excursion was guest favorite last summer.
The K-Kountry Tour: This one hour walking tour of the kamp adjacent to our property is perfect for those families who are thinking about sending their children (ages 7-11) to a one or two-week experience at kamp. Guided by K-Kountry’s former director, this tour will allow families to see the property, learn about the program and schedule, and have their questions answered.
"Duo-Clime Fishing Excursion": Folks, this is for the more enthusiastic fisherman. Whereas, our Rainbow Descent doubles as a canoe float and a fishing trip, the “Duo-Clime” allows a person to take off from our dock in a canoe, and be fishing for either bass or trout within five minutes. It’s not often one finds the confluence of warm water (for bass) and cold water (for trout), but our property happens to be situated right where Roark Creek meets Taneycomo Lake. And with a little skill (plus luck), you can catch your limit almost any afternoon. Licenses can be purchased at Bass Pro, just a five minute drive from K-Kauai. You can either bring your own fishing gear, or ask for us to outfit you. Happy fishing!
Paintball: Ready, Aim, FUN! It's time for the paint to splatter and memories to be made. Kauai hosts it's very own paintball paradise that will have your family reliving this adventure all year long. The big question is will you be on the same team or chasing after each other? This has been a HUGE hit and will continue to be one of the highlight options you have on the island. Check with our registrar for specific clothing / age requirements.