Exploring Kauai Archives

Planning a trip to Kauai? Learn about Kauai from local Kauai writers. Fun stories, events and things to do on Kauai.

Hunger Games “Catching Fire” Finds Kauai

With the recent big screen hits “The Descendents” starring George Clooney and “Pirates Of The Caribbean On Stranger Tides” with Johnny Depp, today’s announcement by Hawaii News Now doesn’t come as too much of a surprise. Hollywood movie scouts may have chosen the Garden Island of Kauai as one of the filming locations for the movie based on the trilogy by Suzanne Collins, “The Hunger Games: Catching Fire”

Film scouts have been searching out locations within the Hawaiian Islands and have zeroed in on Kauai. With the natural beauty, rugged terrain, isolated valleys, lush green jungles, turquoise waters and wildlife, it is no wonder Hollywood may have again made a smart choice in picking Kauai.

“Catching Fire,” Finnick Odair and the Third Quarter Quell is set to hit theaters late November 2013.

Here are some photos that show you why Kauai is the perfect Film Location:

A Culinary Romp Through Paradise

Exploring Kauai, Local Eats and Flavors

Cacao Pod Photo by Daniel Lane

On the east side of island is Ein Rogel Farm. A 26-acre sustainable exotic fruit farm nestled in Kauai’s Kahuna Valley. There are 80 varieties of tropical fruit on the estate and the five-million-year-old Makaleha Mountain range provides the trees with pristine
spring water.

A fresh morning dawns as a couple from Colorado eagerly wait for the farm tour to begin. It rained through the night and into early morning, and the group that was to be ten is now three. The birds don’t care. As the clouds break, they sing with the emerging sun.

Kauai is known as the Garden Island because of the abundant rainfall due to Mount
Waialeale. An east facing peak grabs warm, moist trade winds and turns them into
tropical showers. Plants thrive in the graceful dance provided by water and sun, and
somehow being in their midst draws out the life in you.

Under a covered awning in the warm morning air, we chew sticky-sweet sugarcane and
learn it’s called the Hawaiian toothbrush. “I always tell people to have a light breakfast
because when you come on the tour, you’ll be eating a lot!” says our guide, Jesse
Schwartz.

As water spills from Makaleha Falls into one of two streams on the property, we cross a
bridge festooned with bright tropical flowers and shaded by towering camphor trees.

Jesse coaxes a succulent prize from the center of a purple fruit with plump, white
flesh. “Mangosteen is known as the Queen of Fruits,” he says as we slip a piece into our
mouths. “The inside is so sweet that the Queen of England, when Captain Cook was
exploring this area, paid $125 in today’s currency for one of these.”

Pineapple plants and 12 types of citrus thrive with hundreds of colorful flowers. Trees
such as ylang ylang perfume the air. Chickens and turkeys roam freely while bees are
busy in their hives making tropical honey.

Whack! Jesse breaks open a coconut with his machete. We take an ambrosial sip and
learn it is not milk but water that we are drinking. Redheaded Brazilian cardinals spy the
cracked nut and wait for our departure so they can free the husks of whatever sweet
meat we overlook.

Shaded by the canopy of a cacao tree, Jesse compares chocolate to wine. Pumpkin-
orange, crimson-red and chestnut-brown pods dangle from the tree’s branches like sun kissed jewels. “You’ll notice a difference in taste between Kauai chocolate and
chocolate from Ghana or the Dominican Republic,” he explains.

An emerging trend is classifying chocolate. Single estate means it comes from one
farm, and single origin means it comes from one country. Rarely will there be a single
varietal, a common practice with wine. There are ten edible cacao species or varietals,
and Ein Rogel Farm cultivates three.

Nature’s kinetic energy transfers to us as we romp along the orchard. Childhood
memories blossom from the recesses of our minds. We recall our first taste of an
orange, or our mother, cutting a star fruit, and wondering at its shape.

As a freelance farm and food writer based on Kauai, I have met artisans who create
with aloha: Farmers that delight in nourishing bodies with organically grown produce,
and chefs who are deeply gratified when one bite makes a person close their eyes, let
out a deep breath, and sigh in pleasure: Mmmmmm!

A Kauai Culinary Tour

I wanted to spread these seeds of aloha, so decided to create a day-long, farm to fork
culinary adventure. We start the day with a two-hour tour at Ein Rogel Farm, of which I
was inspired to write the story above.

After the farm tour, we’ll meet at the Kauai Marriott Resort. While we sit at the outdoor
courtyard lanai, executive chef Guy Higa will serve a four-course lunch made with Kauai
grown ingredients. He’ll also do a cooking demonstration, so you can ask questions and
learn how the professionals cook.

For Reservations or inquiries call 808-635-0257. Deadline to register is Wednesday July 11

Viewing Green Sea Turtles on Kauai’s South Shore

Exploring Kauai, Kauai Beaches

Photo: Claire Fackler, NOAA, NMS

If you just cannot wait to see a Green Sea Turtle on your trip to Kauai, you are not alone. Encountering a Green Sea Turtle in its natural environment is an exciting and memorable experience.

On Kauai’s South Shore, there are a number of areas where turtles can be viewed safely from shore. Green Sea Turtles tend to congregate around feeding areas that grow marine algae and sea-grass or provide the turtles with shelter, and the necessary species to set up cleaning stations.

If you are lucky enough to see a turtle up close and personal, just remember that sea turtles are protected by state and federal laws, which prohibit you from harassing them. Here are some responsible viewing guidelines recommended by the National Marine Fisheries Service and the State of Hawaii:

• Always keep a safe distance. Do not chase, approach, swim with, try to touch or ride a turtle.
• Never try to feed or entice a sea turtle.
• Remember that loud noises and abrupt movements can startle a sea turtle.

Best South Shore locations for viewing turtles from shore:

Sea turtles can be easily spotted from shore near Brennecke’s Beach. You can either cross the grass at Poipu Beach Park where you can overlook Brennecke’s beach to the left, or walk along the road past Brennecke’s and look back toward the beach. Either way, you are nearly certain to see turtles.

Turtles can also be viewed from the Whaler’s Cove overlook. From the traffic circle in Poipu, take the leg that exits toward the Sheraton. Just past the gravel road that leads to Koloa Landing on your right, find parking and stand by the cement wall where you can overlook the cove.

In fact, most of the rocky shoreline on the South Shore provides feeding habitat for turtles. So no matter where you are, if you are patient, you are likely to see one. One of these places is just past Lawai Beach on the way to Spouting Horn. Pass the beach and the resort and park along the side of the road. You will see a large rock wall on the ocean side of the road that separates the beachfront homes. This is another great turtle viewing location.

You may also encounter sea turtles while swimming or snorkeling. One note of caution however is that millions of years of evolution have made sea turtles remarkably adapted for life in the ocean. As a resulted, turtles can safely feed in rough surf. However, these areas are extremely dangerous for snorkeling and swimming. Snorkel in areas that are safe and you may still get lucky enough to encounter a turtle.

If you want to see turtles in the water, Lawai Beach is your best bet. Just be careful where you snorkel, following a sea turtle too far out can get you in trouble. For more info about snorkeling at Lawai Beach, check out the Best Place to Snorkel on Kauai’s South Shore.

If you want to learn more about Hawaii’s Sea Turtles, check out the following titles: The Book of Honu by Maui authors Peter Bennett and Ursula Keuper-Bennett, Sea Turtles of Hawaii by Kauai author Patrick Ching or for your Kindle, Hawaii’s Green Sea Turtles by Kauai Author Monika Mira.

Meet Kauai’s Children’s Authors

Exploring Kauai, Kauai Events and Festivals

Kauai children’s authors are hitting the road with an island-wide, year-long book signing tour. Kauai Children’s Authors Guild members, Monika Mira, Mark Huff, Wendy Lewis, Susan Dierker, and Carol Peacock will be signing copies of their children’s books on Saturday April 21st at Kauai Mini Golf in Kilauea. They will also be appearing at Beach Rail in Harbor Mall, Talk Story Bookstore in Hanapepe, Na Aina Kai Gardens in Kilauea, National Tropical Botanical Gardens in Poipu and the Princess Ka’iulani Festival in Hanepepe. They are also in negotiations with a number of other locations and events (See below for the event schedule.)

The authors recognize the importance of reading to and interacting with children. “We want children to know that creativity is important, and by learning to write, they to have something to aspire to. We also wish to be accessible to the children and their families.” It was with these intentions that the Kauai Children’s Authors Guild was formed.

Kauai’s Children’s Authors will also be reading their books, or in Mira’s case, conducting coral reef building activities in classrooms and Libraries. For more information about the Kauai Children’s Authors Guild you can view their blog, or Facebook page.

Spring and Summer Book Signing Events:

Saturday April 21st, 2012 from 1p-3p

Kauai Mini Golf in Kilauea is hosting a group book signing for members of the Kauai Children’s Authors Guild. Local authors will be available to sign copies of their children’s books from 1p-3p. Come and enjoy a round of mini golf with your family and get a chance to meet several of Kauai’s Children’s Authors in one place.

Friday April 27th, 2012 from 9a-noon

Beach Rail Toy Store in Harbor Mall will be hosting a group book signing for the Kauai Children’s Authors Guild. Kauai’s authors will be offering signed copies of their books to cruise-line visitors as well as local folks. Free reef fish coloring sheets will be available for the keiki.

Saturday April 28th, 9am-12p

Kauai Children’s Authors Guild member, Monika Mira will be signing copies of her book, The Complete Hawaiian Reef Fish Coloring Book at Na Aina Kai at their monthly keiki day event on Saturday April 28th, from 9a-12p.

Sunday July 15th

Kauai Children’s Authors Guild members, Mark Huff, Carol Peacock-Williams, Susan Dierker, Wendy Lewis and Monika Mira will be signing their books at the National Tropical Botanical Gardens in Poipu on their ‘Ohana day from 9am-noon.

Kilohana Plantation: Shop Dine & Tour Kauai’s Sugar Era

Exploring Kauai, Kauai Events and Festivals

It is hard not to feel as if you have stepped back in time and a feeling of how life was lived during Hawaii’s Plantation Era. The well manicured grounds of Kilohana’s 1930’s Managers Estate sits in the middle of what used to be a 27,000-acre sugar plantation and at one time the center of Kauai business, culture and social life. From the moment you enter the foyer of the 16,000 square foot estate you will be treated to an elegant sampling of antique furnishings, decor, food, shopping, history and charm. Relax and take in the views of Kilohana mountain while dining at Gaylord’s Restaurant, a favorite spot for Sunday brunch, is settled at the edge of the courtyard of Kilohana’s Plantation Estate. For a sophisticated night out on the town the new Mahiko Lounge located in the elegant living room of the Kilohana mansion offers signature drinks, live music and a fun venue for dining and shopping.

You can easily spend a few hours on the grounds exploring the unique and beautiful shops on the ground level and second story. Check out the newest additions to the mansion, Cane Field Clothing and Gallery and Cher McMacken Art, together they occupy what used to be the master bedroom, sun-room and study.This beautifully designed boutique offers a great selection of women’s clothing, locally designed jewelry, novelty gifts, vintage Hawaiian memorabilia and a local artist corner. Other shops include Grande’s Gems & Gallery, Sea Reflections, The Artisans Room and Men’s Hardware. Kauai Plantation Railway, Clayworks at Kilohana, The Beauty Shop and Koloa Rum can be found in separate plantation cottages located on the grounds.

What better way to explore the grounds of a Historic Sugar Plantation than by vintage train. The excitement in the eyes and voices of my six and nine year old escalated as we boarded the beautiful mahogany coaches being pulled by a 1939 Whitcomb diesel locomotive. The sound of the train whistle and the wheels clanking on steel tracks added the perfect amount of nostalgia as we set off to explore Kilohana’s 105 acre grounds. Exotic fruit orchards, vegetable and herb gardens along the tour supply a large portion of the fresh daily produce for Gaylord’s restaurant. At the half way mark of the tour we disembarked the train to feed the farm animals. It was hard to distinguish between the squeals of smiling children and very excited pigs.

As we pulled back into the station the sounds of the conch shell signaled the start of the Imu Ceremony, the unearthing of the roasting pig and the beginning of the theatrical Luau Kalamaku. The center stage was a non stop melange of color, light and a brilliant production, executed by an extremely talented cast of local dancers, performers and musicians, delivering the story of Kalamaku. The fire knife dancing and flaming poi ball twirlers kept the audience lively and on the edge of their seats throughout the night. The combination of great shopping, friendly staff, great entertainment, ono (delicious) food, desserts and an overall feeling of Aloha, makes this a definite must-do Hawaiian experience on Kauai- even for local Kama’aina!

What to Do with 7 Days on Kauai?

Exploring Kauai, Kauai Beaches, Kauai Hiking

What to do on Kauai? If you have to ask yourself this question it is probably your first visit to Kauai. The Garden Island offers some of the most diverse landscapes on the planet, a nature lovers paradise with white sand beaches, countless hiking trails, waterfalls and an endless list of things to do and discover. Here is a sample itinerary with some of my favorite Kauai sites and activities.

Day 1: Arriving and Getting Settled

After settling into your hotel or vacation rental, head for the beach. On the South Side Poipu Beach Park is a great choice to get your feet wet, try a little snorkeling and watch the sunset. Lydgate Beach Park if you are staying on the East Side, Hanalei Bay or Anini Beach on the North Shore.

Day one is a great day to book your Kauai luau. No need to do any thinking. Just sit back enjoy the rhythm of the islands, the dance of the Hula and the taste of Polynesia while sipping a Hawaiian Mai Tai.

Day 2: Kauai a Bird’s Eye View and Touring the North Shore

A helicopter tour is a spectacular way to see the eighty percent of Kauai’s interior that is otherwise not accessible. Book this early then head out to the North Shore. (Flights take off from Lihue or Princeville airport) Drive all the way to the end of the road to Ke’e Beach. Plan to hike a little on the famous Kalalau Trail in Napali Coast State Park — bring hiking shoes or closed-toe tennis shoes. A half-hour on the trail will give you an idea of the spectacular coastline. The hearty may want to hike all the way to Hanakapiai Falls, a 3-hour trip one-way. After your hike, snorkel a bit at Ke’e Beach. Head back into the town of Hanalei for lunch, take it to-go and head down to Hanalei Bay to have lunch. On your way back south head to the Kilauea Lighthouse for a spectacular view and some wildlife spotting.

Day 3: Discover the Napali Coast

The Napali Coast is one of the top attractions and must see places on Kauai This spectacular 17 mile coastline will leave you in awe as your eyes wander from sea level toward the hanging valleys and razor back ridges thousands of feet above the ocean. Experience the exhilarating adventure of a Kauai dolphin and whale watching adventure while relaxing in the sun and soak up the beauty as your captain and crew guide you along secluded beaches of Kauai and the spectacular Napali coast. For those who seek the most exhilarating day on the water book an adventure to the forbidden island of Niihau, where you will explore the Na Pali Coast and the islands of Niihau and Lehua offshore from Kauai’s West Side.

Day 4: Visit the West Side

Get an early start watch the sunrise if youare on the east side and set off for a day of exploring the laid back and historical towns of Hanapepe, Waimea and Kekaha. The scenic drive up the winding roads to Waimea Canyon and Kokee State Park, will give you ample opportunities to stop at the scenic lookouts, take photos and take in the this amazing beauty of the canyons and scenic overlooks into the valleys of the Napali Coast.

Bird lovers, nature enthusiasts, hikers, and sightseers will love wandering around this park. Be sure to stop by the Kokee Natural History Museum and have lunch at the Kokee Lodge that is open till 4:00. Make sure to drive to the end of Hwy. 550 and enjoy the breathtaking lookout into Kalalau Valley.

Day 5: Explore Kauai’s Jungle Interior

Most of Kauai’s lush interior is not accessible by car. There are many fun and exciting ways to explore this part of the island. Paddle into the lush jungle along the Huleia or the Wailua River, hike to a waterfall and enjoy a picnic lunch on a kayak tour or Tubing Adventure Tour.

If you are looking for a bit more speed, booking an ATV tour is a surefire way to have fun. Ride through the forest and private ranch land while you explore breathtaking views of the Huleia River and many movie locations – Jurassic Park, Raiders of The Lost Ark, Pirates of the Caribbean and the spectacular view into Kipu Kai as seen on The Descendants. Other fun tours to explore Kauai’s interior are the zipline tours and the tubing adventure.

Day Six: Explore Your Kauai

By now you have seen most of Kauai, either by land, air or sea. Now you can pick your favorite side of the island and explore more Kauai attractions, hikes and beaches . If you are feeling like doing nothing but relaxing, just stay put at your resort or vacation rental and enjoy a good book and some Hawaiian sunshine.

Day 7: Kauai Favorites and Souvenirs

Time to get pampered and shop for souvenirs. If you choose to be pampered there are many spa choices on island. An amazing experience not to miss out on is a traditional Hawaiian Lomi Lomi or hot stone massage.

For the shopping enthusiast check out some of the favorite local boutiques. The Kauai Museum is filled with many historical treasures as well as a beautiful gift shop with many unique Kauai made products. Check out the Kilohana Plantation shops and train tour. If you haven’t already discovered shave ice then definitely make this a mission to try one before you leave.

Ideas for gifts to bring home:
Hawaiian chocolate-covered macadamia nuts
Dried Fruit
100% Kauai coffee
Ukulele
Local Jewelry & Art

Gulick Rowell House a Kauai Historic Site

Exploring Kauai, Kauai Events and Festivals

Photo taken in 2009 Courtesy of Joel Bradshaw

The Gulick-Rowell House sits quietly nestled in Waimea on Huakai Road (formally known as Missionary Row) between Waimea Town and the road leading up to Kokee. Construction of the home began in 1829 by Rev. Peter Johnson Gulick, who with his wife left their home in Boston and sailed 148 days before landing on Oahu on March 28, 1828. The home was completed by Rev. George Rowell in 1846 and made this his family home. Rev. Rowell passed away on June 1, 1884, and was buried on the property. On April 15, 1978, The Gulick-Rowell House made its way to the National Register of Historic Places as the eighth of 37 sites on Kauai, making the list one year before the Kilauea Lighthouse was listed.

The two-story coral limestone house has the distinction of being Hawaii’s oldest continuously occupied house. The house became a home for the sugar company’s plantation managers, and during a short period the basement served as the Waimea town jailhouse. The history and stories of this home span from the the arrival of missionary families in the early 1800’s to the final days of Hawaii’s sugar era.

Today the Gulick-Rowell House sits unoccupied, hidden under the shade of a large Monkey Pod Tree. Time has been friendly to a home that has been around for over 180 years, but the last decade has not been kind. Architect Bob Fox worked on the home inspection in 1997 and was quoted as saying, “Once a house is unoccupied, it’s amazing how quickly it deteriorates. I don’t know what it is, but it seems like the whole building gives up and just rots away.”

It would be nice to see this historical home restored and and turned into a place where the history of Waimea and Kauai’s West Side, could continue to share the stories of a time past but not forgotten. Learn more about Waimea and Kauai’s sleepy West Side by checking out the Waimea Town Celebration, which is is held every year in February. This year is their 35th year. Events will be held throughout the week of February 19-25th.

The home is currently owned by Kikiaola Land Company who has done an amazing job of restoring aging plantation cottages built in the1900’s into what is now the Waimea Plantation Cottage

The land owners would love to start a non-profit organization or find an existing foundation that would make it possible raise funds for the repair and renovation of this irreplaceable example of traditional New England architecture in Hawaii.

Lydgate Beach Park, Boys and Sticks

Exploring Kauai, Kauai Beaches

If you are the parent of a toddler or preschool boy you are familiar with the joy that a simple stick can bring. You can replace the stick or alter the stick but it seems ironic with all the fancy toys they have they are pretty content when they find their perfect stick. This is because the stick is his defense, his weapon, gun, cannon, sword, poker- digger and best friend.

Now, imagine a place with a long stretch of white sandy beach, crystal clear water and an endless supply of sticks. This place exists and it is located on the East Side of Kauai just south of the Wailua River. The river is the source of a driftwood stick haven, carried down during heavy rain and then deposited onto the sand. The sticks come in all shapes and sizes guaranteeing a satisfied stick aficionado and hours of free entertainment.
With the sheer number of sticks and logs available the shoreline, a weapon might not be the only use your boy will find for his stick. In fact, you might be delighted to see him being quite creative building a fort, a seat, or a pirate ship out of those sticks. If you think this kind of behavior is silly, think again. Early childhood educators and child psychologist agree about the importance of imaginary play. Imaginative play has been shown to foster social and emotional skills, creative problem solving, language skills, cognitive thinking skills, and even helps builds self-esteem. That’s right, you can actually help your child’s overall development by having a fun time playing with sticks on the beaches in Hawaii.

If however you tire from building forts and sword fighting, the nearby Lydgate Ponds offer safe snorkeling for beginners. The playground at Lydgate Park is the largest playground on the island and can offer your family hours of imaginative play. The beach park also offers facilities, a lifeguard, and shade pavilions for the perfect picnic. If you are vacationing with children of any age, make sure that Lydgate Beach Park is on your list of places to visit. Be warned however, you might find that trusty stick tucked away in your boy’s suitcase when you get home.

Best Kauai Beaches

Exploring Kauai, Kauai Beaches

What are the Best Beaches on Kauai? Well that depends what you’re looking for. Are you looking for seclusion, long walks, snorkeling, kid friendly or just the perfect mixture of sand and water to soak up some rays? The Garden Island of Kauai has more than just gardens. Kauai has more beach per coastline mile than any of the other Hawaiian Islands. Kauai is truly a beach-lover’s jackpot of pristine, soft, white sand – perfect for sunbathing, castle-building, shell hunting – beaches.

Best Beaches on Kauai

Haena Beach is simply put- a piece of heaven. Tropical jungle meets turquoise waters and white sand beaches. During the summer months Haena Beach Park offers good snorkeling, beach strolling and sunbathing. This beach has a backdrop that is very recognizable. Mount Makana (Bali Hai) looms mysteriously and offers a spectacular backdrop for sunsets and photo opportunities. Across the street from Haena Beach Park is the Maniniholo dry cave one of Kauai’s many natural attractions.

Mahaulepu Beach is a special place all of its own. This is a treasured part of our Island heritage and the last stretch of beach on the south side that is not developed. This magical stretch of coastline is so deserving of preservation. To access this gem of a beach you must drive down a unpaved dirt road or hike the coast along the Mahaulepu Beach Heritage Trail. The trail begins at the east end of Shipwrecks beach and winds along a coastline of sand dunes, lava tubes, tide pools and stretches of white sand beaches perfect for beach combing.

Salt Pond Beach Park on the West side of Kauai is often overlooked. Salt Pond has a number of protected shallow pools that offer great snorkeling. The water is generally quite clear here and the fringing reefs help keep the water fairly calm. Explore the tide-pools and discover additional Hawaiian marine life and always a beautiful spot for viewing a Kauai sunset. A lifeguard is posted here and you will find restrooms, showers and shade pavilions in the park. Adjacent to the beach park are the salt beds where only certain families are allowed to harvest the salt.

Hanalei Bay by far the most popular beach, especially with the 2011 filming of the movie “The Descendants” starring George Clooney used this as the backdrop and filming location.The two mile long crescent shaped bay offers activities for the whole family. The center of the bay is known as Pavilions and is a popular beach for swimming, surfing and boogie boarding. Lifeguards man this section of the beach. A large pavilion, restrooms, showers and BBQ areas make this an easy spot for the whole family to enjoy a day at the beach. Visit Hanalei Bay in the summer, where sailboats from around the world anchor in the bay, on there last stop before heading back to the west coast from Mexico or the South Pacific.

Poipu Beach will satisfy a wide range of interest. The beach park is perfect for families with children of all ages. A fun playground structure sits above the shoreline and offers hours of fun. Across the street from the beach you will find food and a cool treat of Hawaiian shave ice and ice-cream. Adjacent to the beach park Brennecke’s Beach has exciting waves for boogie boarding. West of the park several beachfront hotels offer surfboard rentals and lessons as well as a nice place to sit and enjoy a meal while watching the sunset into the Pacific.

Polihale Beach Park Definitely off the beaten path Polihale Beach is a magical place that offers a get away from it all vibe. Best for beach walks and watching the sunset.

While each of the beaches on Kauai have their similarities, they also have their differences. Some are more apt for surfing, some for snorkeling, some for swimming or just a perfect place to relax and watch the the most remarkable sunsets. Seasonal weather fluctuations that Kauai experiences can cause drastic differences in the ocean’s conditions. As beautiful as the beaches are, it is extremely important to know about the particular beach you’re visiting before heading into the water. Always ask a lifeguard for the best place to swim and current water conditions.

During the summer season (May – October), North Shore beaches usually mild conditions where you can expect flat and small waves except for a few specific areas that are exposed to the trade wind waves. East Side beaches have pleasant trade-winds that blow fairly consistent off the water during the year and can create larger waves with accelerated trades. The south and west sides of Kauai side surf conditions during the summer bring larger waves and frequent swells creating a deceptively high and powerful surf.

During the winter months (November-April), the North Shore beaches experience a pretty consistent bombardment of huge, fairly dangerous swells. On Kauai’s East Side waves stay relatively similar to the summer months. The south side surf usually flattens out and the sunny weather and light trades offer great opportunities for snorkeling and beginning surf lessons.

Many of the beaches on Kauai are equipped with facilities – public restrooms, drinking water, showers, outdoor picnicking areas with nice tables, seating, waste and recycle receptacles, ample parking, and some with lunch and dining facilities within walking distance. Lifeguard beaches are located on each side the island. Of course you can explore a much more secluded shoreline, where facilities are non-existent, but a surrounding landscape gives you the feeling of being on an untouched tropical island paradise. Always use caution when exploring Kauai beaches.

Best Things To Do On Kauai

Exploring Kauai, Kauai Beaches, Kauai Hiking

You could spend a great deal of your life and your savings traveling the world to find that perfect vacation getaway. Kauai is synonymous with beauty and this tiny island in the Pacific has been voted by National Geographic as one of the Top 50 Places in the World to Live and Play. After exploring Kauai you may just forget about the rest of the world. I am often asked, “What are the best things to do on Kauai?” so here are my top picks for your Kauai getaway.

Hiking the Napali Coast

The Napali Coast is a fifteen mile coastline that stretches the from the north end of the island at Kee beach to the west side at Polihale beach. The Napali coast is accessible only by boat with the exception of the 12 mile stretch of coastline along the Kalalau Trail. This remarkable coast carved out by years of erosion is made up of sheer sea cliffs rising sharply out of the ocean to heights of 4,000 feet, hanging valleys, sea caves, and cascading waterfalls that make their way to the ocean from thousands of feet above.

The Kalalau Trail provides the only land access to the Napali Coast on Kauai. The Kalalau Trail begins at Kee Beach in Haena and ending after a challenging 11 miles at Kalalau Beach. The 11-mile trail is graded but almost never level as it crisscrosses above towering sea cliffs and through lush valleys, dropping to sea level on the beaches of Hanakapiai and Kalalau. A similar foot trail linked earlier Hawaiian settlements along the coastline originally built in the late 1800s, portions of the trail were rebuilt in the 1930s.

Don your hiking shoes and trek the first two miles into Hanakapiai Beach, kayak the coast during the calm of the summer months or book a boat trip to experience one of the many wonders of Kauai.

Kilauea Point National Wildlife Refuge

Kilauea Point National Wildlife Refuge started in 1985 by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is marked by its towering lighthouse. The ocean cliffs and tall grassy slopes of a dormant volcano provide a protective breeding ground for many Hawaiian seabirds. It is also one of the few locations where you can observe the Brown Booby, Red-footed Booby, Albatross, Wedge-tailed Shear-water amongst other Kauai wildlife in their natural habitat. The coastal front also provides a safe haven for the Hawaiian monk seals, green turtles, and the humpback whale.

Waimea Canyon and Kokee State Park

Waimea Canyon State Park is the largest canyon in the Pacific and will undoubtedly capture your gaze, with its 10 mile long stretch at a mile wide and measuring more than 3,500 feet deep. The history of Kauai can be seen in the walls and crags of the canyon as you explore the more than 45 miles of trails. This is truly a remarkable sight, offering numerous scenic overlooks and photo opportunities. Surrounding the Waimea Canyon is the Kokee State Park which occupies 4,345 acres of land. Norfolk pines, Koa hardwoods, native plants and wildlife are just a small fraction of what you will see here.My favorite way to explore the canyon and the Kokee State Park is to hit the trails. There are dozens of hiking trails for every level of expertise. My favorite hike is the Pihea Alakai Boardwalk Trail is a must do while visiting Kauai. This hike is a challenging yet rewarding hike that will take you to the edge of one of the most spectacular valleys and on a clear day vistas of Hanalei Bay and as far as the Kilauea Light House.

State operated cabins are available year-round with advance reservations. Waimea Canyon hiking maps can be found at the Kokee Natural History Museum.

Wailua Falls

The Wailua Falls are one of Kauai’s little secrets known not only for its flowing beauty, but also ease of access. This 140 foot waterfall appears on many postcards, print and media collections and was used as the opening scene for the 1970’s Television series Fantasy Island. The Wailua falls are located off Maalo Road or Hwy 583and is easily accessed. These easy to photograph falls will involve no hiking. The size and appearance of the falls is determined by the amount of rainfall further up the mountains.

Hanalei Valley and the North Shore

Hanalei Valley is one of the most beautiful and lush places in all Hawaii and some argue the world. Hanalei is surrounded by majestic mountains and countless cascading waterfalls that drain into the lush valley, taro fields, and rivers below. If that doesn’t bring you to your senses then perhaps Hanalei Bay with its perfect swimming waves and soft white sand may entice you. You will also want to spend some time on the Hanalei Bay and explore the eight mile scenic drive from the town of Hanalei to the end of the road at Kee Beach.

Polihale Beach

Polihale Beach is the longest stretch of white sand beach in Hawaii. Located at the end of an old dirt cane haul road off the last stretch of highway on the West Side. This is a favorite and beautiful beach for long walks, amazing sunsets and camping with the proper permits. Ocean conditions can be dangerous especially during winter months and high swells. Polihale is exposed to open ocean with no protective reefs and no lifeguard.

Mahaulepu Heritage Trail

As part of a special dedicated stretch of coastline The Mahaulepu Coastal Trail is a beautiful hike along the last stretch of accessible coastline. The hike takes you from the south east corner of Shipwreck Beach and The Grand Hyatt Kauai. along sand-dune cliffs, limestone formations, Kiawe trees, and rocky inlets to Mahaulepu Beach. There are dozens of great spots for tide-pool exploration, learning about marine life and spotting the rare Hawaiian sea turtles and the endangered Hawaiian Monk Seal. This area has amazing rock formations and numerous amount of blow holes along the coastal trail. Children enjoy throwing sand or leaves into the blow holes and await the rush of and haunting sound that fills the air.

Along with all these the natural wonders there are numerous activities and fun things to do. So experience Kauai for yourself and create your own Best of Kauai List.

Kauai – A Honeymoon Paradise

Exploring Kauai, Kauai Beaches

There is hardly a more romantic time than your honeymoon. And there is hardly a more romantic place to spend your honeymoon than on the Island of Kauai. With more miles of beach per miles of coastline than any other of the Hawaiian islands, you are sure to find the perfect spot to watch the famous Kauai sunsets. And with hundreds of different kinds of honeymoon accommodations available – boutique hotels to luxury resorts to private vacation rentals and secluded campsites, there are plenty of spots to spend your romantic evenings and create a lifetime of memories..

Hawaii was voted a hotspot for honeymoon destinations by Honeymooner’s Review Guide, the Wedding Channel, and among the top ten best honeymoon locations as seen by the Travel Channel, Woman’s Stalk, and the Knot. Honeymooning on Kauai in particular is a favorite destination among the Hawaiian island chain.

Kauai’s uniquely stunning natural beauty and peaceful, less crowded Beaches gives you the total experience of a tropical island paradise. With dozens of amazing beaches on the island, there is plenty of room for long, romantic walks, and private dining by the sea. Though with Kauai’s diverse natural landscape, beach activities aren’t the only thing to enjoy on the island. For the more active honeymooners, there is over 100 miles of trails to hike or take a land tour on horseback or an exhilarating ATV tour through rain forest,canyons, mountain valleys and cattle ranch land. pastures.

There are also the Napali coast boating tours, and trips to the Forbidden Island of Niihau where sea turtle and whale watching are naturally inclusive. Besides, “forbidden” island tours are always more romantic, aren’t they?

For those couples who want less outdoor activity and more indoor indulging, Kauai is also abundant with luxury resorts, day spas, gourmet dining, and nighttime entertainment. Traditional island music, hula dancing, and luau shows are a long running novel favorite among honeymooning couples – all of which are nearly nightly activities on Kauai.

With all accommodations and things to do on Kauai, coupled with the pristine and natural beauty of the oldest member of the Hawaiian islands, it’s easy to see why Kauai is one of the most popular honeymooning destinations in the world. The only thing better than just honeymooning on Kauai, is perhaps getting married on Kauai too. Plan your destination wedding and honeymoon all in one.

Something for Everyone at the Kauai Culinary Market

Exploring Kauai, Local Eats and Flavors

As I approach the Kauai Culinary market, the first thing I notice is the sound of live music. I find myself asking, is this a festival or a farmers market? Well, it is touted as a gourmet farmers market and now I know why.

As we enter, I see a man wielding a machete. He is skillfully husking coconuts wile his partner spears them with a straw and hands them out to passersby. My son and I enjoy the show. I sample a chocolate dipped dried apple banana an then buy some amazing lettuce and fresh herbs from the organic farmers table. I taste some fruit I’ve never heard of; it tastes like cinnamon and brown sugar. I then score the last half dozen of multicolored eggs from a local farmer.

I’m now closer to the music and stop to enjoy it for a while. The musicians finish the set and announce the chef demonstration will be beginning shortly. I notice that the area where the chef demonstration is taking place is cordoned off and then the see that they are serving wine. This is my kind of farmers market! My four-year-old spots a large glass jar with pink liquid that turns out to be homemade strawberry, lemongrass, lemonade with mint. It disappears before I can pay for it.

Chef Helen of the Hanapepe Café is demonstrating how to make Carrot, Coconut, Lemongrass Bisque Recipe. She passes around a Kefir lime leaf to familiarize the audience with its unique aroma, before describing how to make the base for the soup. Of course she also passes around samples of this amazingly fresh concoction and wows the audience with its unusual bouquet of flavors.

The audience is asking where they can get all of the ingredients so they can attempt to recreate it at home. Turns out all of the ingredients can be purchased from the vendors and at market and Living Foods Market located at the other end of the mall.

Meanwhile, my son is tugging at my leg, he wants to see what else is available. We return to the market and sample vanilla lilikoi jam on a cracker and pass by the most amazing assortment of pies I’ve ever seen.

Then my son spies the homemade pasta, a perfect match for the pesto I was planning to make with my fresh herbs. He wants the squid ink pasta because it is black but we settle on a mix of kale and tomato curls.

We are delighted to see all the locally made foods, spices, coffees, jams and even fresh baked goods. The music, the chef demonstration, and the samples made the event relaxing and enjoyable, quite a contrast from the sunshine markets where you must arrive promptly before the bell rings and are strictly there to purchase your fruits and veggies.

I would highly recommend attending the Kauai Culinary Market. It happens every Wednesday from 4pm-6pm in Poipu at The Shops at Kukui’ula. Check out other Kauai Farmers Markets island-wide