Hawaii - 12 hours on Kauai

I have 12 full hours in Kauai on a mileage run this Friday 10am-10pm. I have never visited the island before, but I will not have access to a rental car (I don't have a driving license) what would you recommend this Canada-bound student that wants to enjoy his few hours in the warm weather.

I read that there is a bus, how convenient is it?

I'd just like to see some nice views, maybe enjoy a short swim and find a place to get a good lunch at.

I don't have any problem walking about 20-30km throughout the day.

Here's the bus info (http://www.kauai.gov/default.aspx?tabid=58). Haven't actually used it myself, only researched it. Without being able to drive, I'd say try taking it over towards Kekaha, though no need to go all the way to the end.

Do everything you can to get an overnight bump ;) .

either The Bus north through Kapaa and then up to Hanalei...nice beach, town, and beautiful views on the way.

or, grab the Marriott shuttle, hang out on the beach (I believe that's an option...but perhaps others can comment), have a nice lunch or dinner at Dukes.

either The Bus north through Kapaa and then up to Hanalei...nice beach, town, and beautiful views on the way.

or, grab the Marriott shuttle, hang out on the beach (I believe that's an option...but perhaps others can comment), have a nice lunch or dinner at Dukes.

The Marriott won't have a problem if I use the shuttle without having a room booked? I was thinking of walking from the airport, as it didn't seem too far out of the way.

If you just want to hang out at a pretty beach - no waves, just walk or cab to the Marriott and eat at Duke's, which has a great view. The beach is right there too. For your second meal, walk over to Kalapaki Joe's, a sports bar with sandwiches and salads.

As has been suggested above, you can take that bus either direction, up to Hanalei or Kekaha or Poipu or anywhere in between that might interest you. The best views are probably going to be taking the bus up to Hanalei.

What about scooter rentals? A good way to get around without having to deal with waiting for a bus? Know of any places that do rentals?

Since you're there for 12 hours, have you considered checking with the Marriott to see if they have a day rate available? IMHO, it will make you feel a whole lot more comfortable and you'll have a place to shower/etc.

The Marriott won't have a problem if I use the shuttle without having a room booked?

Tell them you're going to have lunch/dinner. I second the idea to see if you can get a day-rate on a room.

Tip the driver a few dollars
No problems except where to store your carryon when in the water

AFAIK the Marriott doesn't do day-rooms, but they have in the past offered passes to use the pool/facilities for ~$30-35. I'd give them a call/email to find out what their latest offering is.

Tip the driver a few dollars
No problems except where to store your carryon when in the water

Just check your bags with the bellhop, tip when you ask for them, No need to explain you are just there for the day. You can use restroom for changing, take your swim trunks and towel out of luggage and put your clothes in before checking, bring a plastic bag for wets when you are done.

All Hawaiian beaches are public so you can use the beach at the Marriott, but not the pools
enjoy the day!