Put Some Island “Aloha” Magic in Your Kauai Vacation

First, What Exactly IS “Aloha” Magic?

Hawaiians, especially on Kauai, use the word “aloha” for many things. You probably already know it means hello or goodbye. But depending on how and when it is used, it can mean so much more! Aloha is the spirit of the islands. It is an expression or love, affection, honor, and thanks. All of the experiences you just can’t describe, the scenic views to beautiful for words, the acts of kindness and joy can all be called aloha.

In order to better understand its important to note that the true meaning of aloha isn’t found in the dictionary. Its used to symbolize “breath of life”. In everything you do or say, aloha can travel with you. Breaking down the word into two syllables gives you “alo” meaning “presence”. It can also mean “front, face, and share”. Whereas “ha” means “breath or breath of life”.

So aloha is the positive energy that you can share with whomever you choose. Spread it often. For aloha is its own kind of magic. Aloha is kindness, generosity, hope, and all the things that are good. Spread it. Can’t we all use a little more of those things?

The Aloha of Kauai

So, you’re visiting Kauai and you’re a little skeptical. In the past you’ve stayed on Maui and have heard that Kauai is more rustic; super laid back. You’ve even been told that you’d just like Maui more, that you should probably go there. You’ve just been duped in an attempt to keep the “aloha” in Kauai.

There’s a local inside joke that goes, “If you love Kauai, tell your friends to visit Maui.”

Never fear! Kauai, known as the “Garden Isle”, is a spectacular place to visit. If you haven’t seen this little slice of heaven, you definitely should! Continue reading and put a little “aloha” Island magic in your Kauai vacation!

Things To Know Before You Go

Best Time To Visit Kauai

Weather

There really isn’t a bad time to visit any of the Hawaiian Islands. But, you may need to do a little extra planning for Kauai. This island is home to one of the (if not THE) wettest spots on earth. The tropical climate allows for two seasons: Wet or Dry. During the dry season the weather is stable and the rain generally comes in short bursts lasting just a few minutes. On our five day September holiday this year rain fell for maybe a total of 10 minutes.

Here’s a little tidbit that makes you say, hmmm. It must be “aloha” island magic that more often than not, most rainfall occurs at night.

_{Comparing the 12 hours of daylight versus the the 12 hours of night…}

_{“In the lowlands at all times of the year, rainfall is most likely to occur during the nighttime or in the morning hours and least likely to occur during mid-afternoon. Correspondingly, not only is rainfall more frequent at night, but also the total nighttime fall averages more than the total daytime fall “}

Western Regional Climate Center (WRCCC)

The best time to visit Kauai is between September and November or from April to June, when crowds are at a minimum, the weather is pleasant and costs of flights and hotels are down.

During the winter months temperatures range from the lows in the mid 50s °F (12-13°C) and highs in the low to mid 70s °F (23-24°C); while in the summer months you can expect lows in the low to mid 60s °F (16-18 °C) with highs in the mid 80s °F (28-30°C).

Keep in mind, however that if you plan on hiking in the higher altitudes or heading out on the water…you may want to take a light, waterproof jacket anytime of year. Just in case.

Resort Areas

After having explored the island I can honestly say there isn’t any bad place to stay, however there are some perks in staying in one place over the other depending on your personality, expectations and budget. We stayed in Lihue at Marriott’s Kauai Beach Club. Lihue is on the eastern side, known as the “Coconut Coast”. Next time, I’m pretty sure we’re going to stay on the southern shores of Poipu. Read more for some pros and cons of each of the areas, then you’ll be better able to judge which is best for you.

The East Side: To Include Kapa’a, Lihue, and Wailua

Upon your arrival in Kauai you will already be on the East Coast of the Island. I found this to be a pro on our visit. Closer to the airport meant less stressing over possible traffic when it is time to leave. As per it’s nick-name, coconut trees are everywhere! For me, also a pro. This part of the island is more developed inland. It has affordable accommodations and plenty of beaches.

Many of the excursions on Kauai seem to begin on this side of the island, which is convenient. So again, a pro in my book. The east side also offers some spectacular sunrises! If you’re an early riser and want to add a little “aloha” island magic in your Kauai vacation you have to see at least one. My favorite places in this area are: Kapaa Beach Park and Lydgate Beach Park.

A few of the more popular properties are:

• Marriott’s Kaua’i Beach Club
• Waipouli Beach Resorts & Spa Kauai by Outrigger 
• Sheraton Kauai Coconut Beach Resort

The South Side: To Include Koloa, Lawaii, and Poipu

As I mentioned, we’ll probably stay in Poipu next time. Our main reason is the variety and quality of the beaches seem to fit our lifestyle. Beaches are definitely a pro for us. Another pro is that although there were more people, the area seemed less developed. Which is funny because it really is a bit more “touristy” in places. There are many resorts, shopping and dining areas. So crowds con, but lovely area with lots to see and do pro. The biggest con in my opinion is that it is quite a bit further from the North Shore of the island. Biggest pro? The south side of the island gets more sun, even during rainier seasons. Best place to watch the sunrise in this area is Poipu Beach.

Some of the popular properties in this area are:

• Grand Hyatt Kauaʻi Resort & Spa
• Ko‘a Kea Hotel & Resort at Po‘ipū Beach
• Koloa Landing Resort at Poipu
• Marriott’s Waiohai Beach Club
• Sheraton Kauai Resort

The North Side: To include Princeville, Hanalei, and Kilau

Taking a drive through and around the North Side of the island is something everyone should experience. True, it rains a lot, but the extra rain has it’s benefits. The plants are more lush and vibrant, the colors are just a little brighter. Breath-taking doesn’t even describe it. Depending how much you enjoy the rain…it could be a pro or con.

There are many luxurious accommodations in this area. If luxury is what you are looking for…you may want to begin your search here. In addition, beaches on this side of the island are sublime.

A few popular accommodations in this area are:

• Hanalei Bay Resort
• 1 Hotel Hanalei Bay
• The Westin Princeville Ocean Resort Villas

The West Side: To Include Hanapepe and Waimea

Do you plan to do a lot of hiking through the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific”, Waimea Canyon? You may consider the West Side of the island. Here, you peace and solitude are in abundance as well. Accommodations, shopping and dining options this side of the island are in limited availability; as a result, it sees fewer visitors.

The biggest pro to staying here is the proximity to both Waimea Canyon and Kokee State Park. The biggest con is it’s a pretty good drive to anywhere else you want to go.

Here are a few places available in this area:

• The Historic Inn Waimea
• Pali Cottage
• The West Inn Kauai

There is so much to see and do on Kauai. No matter where you stay, you’re bound for a holiday you won’t soon forget.

To follow is how we put a little “aloha” island magic in our Kauai vacation

Day 1

Stepping off the plane at the airport in Lihue we immediately notice that this small hub is almost completely open air. Once we passed through customs, where currently they check to see if you have the exemption from quarantine, we stepped outside and around the corner to retrieve our luggage. Chickens and roosters were strutting about. “Why did the chicken cross the road?” I couldn’t get the joke out of my head!

Bags in hand, we hurried over to the transportation shuttle stop to await transport to the rental car station. Although we rented our car from National, we had to pick it up from the Alamo. National was closed and cars were in limited supply. If you are an Executive Member at National used to walking the aisle to choose your car, be prepared to wait like everyone else. When the pandemic hit a lot of car rental places sold their fleets. It is for this reason I highly advise that you reserve a car well ahead of time. Once at the counter we once again need to show our Hawaiian Safe Travels pass. You may want to have that readily available since the Wi-Fi isn’t great.

But! Our holiday had officially begun!

But First! Hmmm, What IS IT with the Chickens and Roosters?

Before taking our trip I had heard there were a few chickens and roosters…but this is hilarious!

Everywhere you go, Roosters. Greeting the sunrise, sunset, and just about any time of day with their “cuckle-doodle-doo!“

I heard a story about why there are so many chickens and roosters roaming around. The story goes that the wild winds of the two hurricanes, Iwa in 1982 and Iniki in 1992, freed domesticated chickens from their coops. These chickens took refuge in the jungles and mated with the feral, wild, red junglefowl that had been brought to the islands by Polynesians some 800 years ago.

After that, voilà, the feral chickens we see today.

But ask any local shop owner and they will tell you that the main reason there are so many feral chickens and roosters on the island is because the tourist continuously feed them. With so much food and their only nemeses on the islands being dogs and cats (and an occasional car), it looks like this fowl group is here to stay!

Checking In At The Resort

Our resort, the Marriott’s Kaua’i Beach Club, is located in Lihue, just a short drive from the airport. It’s a pretty resort within steps of the coarse, reddish sands of Kalapaki Beach. Almost every review I’d read before we came referred to the sands as “white.” If you’ve been to this resort please tell me what color the sand is. I’d love to know your thoughts.

Masks are still required inside the building due to the ongoing pandemic situation. Housekeeping service is also suspended until further notice. But a simple phone call got us whatever we needed. Housekeeping would bring it to the room and leave it at the door. (Boy I can’t wait for this craziness to end!)

We had taken an early flight and as we checked in we were told our room wasn’t ready. We were given the keys and told that once the room was available we’d receive a text and our keys would be activated.

After taking a quick look over of the resort grounds and pool we headed to the sandy shores of Kalapaki Beach. Located at the entrance of Nawiliwili Harbor, the entire area is breath-taking. Body-boarders, surfers and foilers were gliding on the gentle blue and green waves. Colorful exotic birds, and yes…chickens and roosters were everywhere on the carpet of soft green grasses, in the trees, as well as on the paved path that led to many shops and restaurants.

The mountainous region of the Huleia National Wildlife Refuge loomed in the distance It looked very familiar. As it turns out, the rolling boulder scene from Indiana Jones and the Raiders of the Lost Ark was filmed there. Haha! And I thought that was filmed in Peru!

Hunger Hits

We were given snacks on our 6 hour Southwest flight from San Diego. You know the kind: cookies, crackers, and even potted cheese-stuff. But, even after that glorious meal we were hungry. With time to kill before our room was ready, we went out in hunt of a mid-day meal to hold us off until our Luau dinner later that evening.

We really enjoy local flavors. If you do too, try Daddy-O’s. It’s located just off Rice Street in Lihue. The Stuffed Shrimp Benedict is delicious. Derek had the Ono Omelet. We literally devoured every bite.

Our First Planned Event: Smith Family Garden Luau

When I come to Hawaii, I must go to a Luau. There’s something magical about tradition and culture shown through dance. Participating in a luau takes my mind to a time before written language. Artistic storytelling at its finest.

And the Smith Family Garden Luau does not disappoint. I know, “Smith”. Right?! What kind of Hawaiian name is that? But believe me, this was one of the best luau’s I’ve ever attended. The Luau has been going on for over 50 years and is four generations strong. It’s amazing. Nearly everyone working the luau is related. I can’t even imagine working with four generations of my family! How about you?

The luau takes place on a 30 acre botanical garden located in Kapa’a. You are given ample time to explore the beautifully maintained grounds before the official ceremony begins.

“Thank you for coming to a Luau with the name Smith,” Kamika, our host, begins as he directs everyone to the earthen imu where the roasted pig waits.

Two men dressed in traditional Hawaiian attire approach and blow the conch shell in four directions. Kamika tells the story of the imu as the men lay down their shells and begin to dig out the roasted pig. Afterwards we walk to our seats. The feast has begun.

And feast you do! In addition to the roasted pig there’s mahimahi, chicken, and so much traditionally cooked food that you won’t go away hungry. A live band plays and you even get to learn the meaning of some traditional hula moves. And after that, everyone heads over to the outdoor theater for the show. Absolutely stunning.

Day 2

And, The Sun Rises in the East!

With Kauai being a full 3 hours ahead of our local time zone of California, we had no trouble waking up early enough to see the sunrise. Derek and I dressed quickly and made our way through the gardens, past the pool, and to the beach. Surfers were already balanced on their boards; some straddling them as they awaited the next rolling wave, others paddling out again after catching the last. The waters glimmered blue and silver with morning’s first light.

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We were soon to find out that due to the south facing crescent shape of Kalapaki Beach, we weren’t witnessing a sunrise that morning! Point to note…Kalapaki Beach may be a lot of things, but where to see a sunrise, it is not. Even so, tinted clouds drifted on the morning breeze, birds burst into song and various roosters greeted the new day with their familiar, “cuckle–doodle–doo”. We both agreed that we could move to Kauai in an instant.

Tunnel of Trees

Since the dinner cruise we scheduled for later in the day was departing from Eleele, Derek and I planned on doing some exploring around the south side of the island.

Heading out toward the south shore from our resort we passed through Maluhai Road and what is know as the “Tunnel of Trees”. The word Maluhai means serenity and this two minute drive is definitely serene. Over 500 large eucalyptus trees form a picturesque tunnel. The tree’s uppermost branches appear to embrace. The result? A beautiful and fragrant canopy.

Hawaiians regard Eucalyptus as sacred. They believe the tree’s oil dispels negativity and the leaves offer purification. The spirit ( ‘uhane ) of the Eucalyptus, can help a person break free from fears and help to remove obstacles. Aloha magic? Maybe. But I felt more peaceful after passing under the branches.

It’s a grand gateway to Poipu and Koloa that you’ll want on your bucket list!

The Spouting Horn

In no time we were in Poipu and arriving at Spouting Horn Beach Park. With a scenic lookout point as well as picnic tables and restrooms, I could just imagine lunches there on lazy Saturday mornings. The guardrail offers a deterrent to anyone wishing to climb to the volcanic shelf below. The waves crash into the rock with such force that it would be extremely dangerous to anyone silly enough to venture there.

The Spouting Horn is a blowhole within the volcanic rock shelf. Fierce tides force the water through the opening and into the air. How far up the water will travel is dependent on the weather, tide, and ocean conditions. When conditions are right the water may spout up as far as 50 feet in the air!

Quirky Oddities

Glass Beach

In case you don’t already know, I love all things quirky or a bit unusual. I had heard about a place in Eleele called Glass Beach, and I wasn’t going back home without seeing it.

Located in an industrial area near Port Allen in Eleele there’s a dirt road that leads to small beachfront. It’s a peculiar find on an island with such pristine, natural beauty in that the beautiful glass pebbles washed upon the shore are the result of human carelessness.

The constant tumbling of discarded glass bottles against the rocky volcanic shore by the waves has crushed and polished the glass into pretty pebbles

Glass beach’s location leaves something to be desired. It is small and rocky with a strong tide. In addition, it’s in an industrial area so the view in all directions is less than specular. Since we were here, we decided to take a look-see. Directly above the beach, next to an old cemetery, is a small parking lot so we pulled in.

On our visit I saw more trash and very little colorful glass pebbles on the sandy shore. Not to be dissuaded we went past the parking area to where the dirt road was rougher, less maintained. Venturing there, we came to a dead end. Here the black basalt extends out into the ocean. Carefully we made our way down the steep bank. Small tide pools filled with various sea-life were speckling the shiny lava rock. In this spot the glass pebbles were everywhere.

McBryde Sugar Plantation Cemetery

As the tides were rising, we made our way back to the dusty dead end. The old rust colored cemetery stretched the full length of the road. It has a quiet, haunting beauty. Its residents seemed to call out to me, so as soon as I topped the rocky bank I set my path to the gate.

“Don’t you find it funny that a cemetery is on a dead end?” I asked my husband who quietly ignored me in the car. He’s not much into such things as exploring old cemeteries.

The McBryde Sugar Plantation Cemetery is the final resting place of many Chinese and Japanese sugar cane factory workers. Most of the gravestones, both Buddhist and Christian, are dated in the late 1800s to early 1900s. What a beautiful spot to spend the rest of eternity.

Sailing the Seas a.k.a Planned Excursion #2

Check was to begin at 2:30 for the sunset Na Pali Coast dinner cruise we booked with Capt Andy’s. Although the tides were beginning to surge, we were assured we were to sail.

Three catamarans were set to depart from Port Allen’s boat slips and we were in the third group to set sail. Our catamaran was big and modern looking. The crew was friendly, but the waters were rough. Settling myself upon the netting at the front of the boat, I was quick to find there was no wetter spot available. Within minutes of hitting open waters, I was completely drenched head to toe.

Much unlike our dinner cruise on Maui, large swells rocked our vessel the entire trip. At one point dolphins swam at our side as if to guide us through the swelling waves. Breathtaking views of the Na Pali coast with their jagged cliffsides is something you will not want to miss. Towering sea cliffs with cascading water-falls loom above sea caves and deep blue waters.

Drinks were flowing and a wonderful meal was prepared by our chef, but when the roll of the tide began to mesh with the rock of the boat, I discovered eating just wasn’t in my game-plan for the night. Plan ahead if you get motion sickness. You don’t want to miss the sensational sunset!

Day 3

On the east side of Kauai, located near the Wailua River is Lydgate Beach. It’s a terrific family beach with picnic areas, restrooms, and calmer waters that are great for snorkeling. There’s playground nearby, but I loved swinging on a make-shift rope swing that someone had hung from one of the trees near the crystal clear water.

As though on a cue, the clock hand hit 6:22am and the sun began to peep over the distant horizon. Fluffy clouds, dressed in their finest colors of pinks, oranges, yellows, blues, grays and whites danced against the cornflower sky. A new day was born. Standing there, my naked feet in the sand, the warmth of the day just beginning, I could feel it swell within my chest. The birth of a new day always feels like “hope” to me. Happiness filled my heart. We watched until the sun was fully in the sky as waves lapped against the warm earth.

For me, there’s nothing quite like a sunrise to put some Island “aloha” magic in your Kauai vacation. Unless, of course, it’s watching the sun set.

Afterwards we rushed over to Kapa’a to grab a bite at Kountry Kitchen. By 7am there was already a line waiting for the doors to open. This place is out of the world good. Wonderful food, quick, friendly service…who could ask for more? I had the Salty Monkey Waffle. OMG! DELISH!

Sky Tour of Jurassic Park and The Na Pali Coast a.k.a Planned Excursion #3

If you ask me what is the one thing you absolutely MUST do on Kauai, I’d tell you to take a helicopter tour of the island. There is so much that you just can’t get to by car and you really do not want to miss out on all the beautiful sights of the inner island. Our tour was with Blue Hawaiian Helicopters and we booked the front seats for the best view available.

Greg, our pilot, was informative and just an all around terrific tour guide. He pointed out all of the spots on the island where various movies were filmed such as Indiana Jones, Pirates of the Caribbean, King Kong and of course, Jurassic Park and even played their corresponding theme songs! Fun!

Awe-inspiring natural beauty can be found in every direction. Iron rich soils that paint the majestic mountainsides with their rusty hues create quite the contrast to the vibrant greens of the rain forest.

Small bursts of rainfall sprinkled the glass, but not enough to disturb our view. Flying deep within the the mouth of Kauai’s volcano, Waialeale, waterfalls sprang from the cliffs.  Greg offered lore, legend and straight-up fact as we seemingly floated along the Na Pali coast line. The views are so spectacular! I’m sure you will agree that there is definitely “aloha” magic in everything you see when you have a bird’s eye view.

Exploring the West Side

After our helicopter tour we drove over to the West side of the island to get a bit of exploring in before heading to our dinner reservation at Keoki’s Paradise in Koloa.

Arriving at the old plantation town of Hanapepe around 3:30, we were a little disappointed that most of the shops in “Kauai’s biggest little town” had closed at 3pm. Walking around we found the historic buildings and many art shops to be quaint. This laid-back, artsy town was the inspiration for the setting of Disney’s Lilo and Stitch.

Walking across the cable bridge you are swept back in time.

There’s a farmer’s market on Thursdays starting at 3pm and the town celebrates its many artists on Fridays from 5-9pm. But on the Saturday we stopped by, this sleepy, artsy town had already called it a night.

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Day 4

Brunch on the beach a.k.a Saved by a Good Samaritan

Waking early is no problem when your local time back home is three hours ahead. We brunched at a cute place in Kapa’a called Sam’s Ocean View. Good vibes, great service and wonderfully delicious food, plus a fantastic view of the Kapa’a Beach. Who could ask for more?

But the real story started after we left the restaurant. We headed over to the beach and were about halfway to the water when a young man who had been dining on the deck came running up to us. “Hey! You dropped this,” he said. There, in his outward stretched hand was Derek’s wallet. We thanked him dazedly as he headed back to the restaurant. THAT would have put a serious damper on the rest of our trip. Imagine losing EVERYTHING. I.D, cash, debit and credit cards. Yeah. Not cool.

After we got our wits about us again we walked back to the restaurant. Seated on the outward deck he was still there having a bite with a pretty, young woman. Our server who had helped us previously let the guy know that we’d like to offer him a drink on us. When he politely declined, we paid his entire check and left. He wasn’t getting away with such an act of kindness!

Karma, my friends, is only a bitch if you are.

We didn’t get the guy’s name, but whoever you are…Mahalo! Your honesty and kindness helped us to continue to enjoy the “aloha” magic on our trip.

Adventure Awaits a.ka. Excursion #4

After a little snorkeling, it was time to go Mountain Tubing! I simply love the idea of floating down a lazy river through a historic Lihue Sugar Plantation ditch and tunnel system. When we first tried to book with Kauai Backcountry Adventures there was no availability for both of us during any time on the days we were in Kauai. We were on the waiting list, but I’m glad we checked every day. Prior to leaving California a space for two opened up. My advice is even if you’re on the list, check for yourself. No one called us to let us know about the newly opened spots. I’m sure we would have missed out if we weren’t checking.

Kauai Backcountry Adventure’s website states, “This tubing adventure is perfect for people ages 5 and over and in generally good physical condition.” But I thought I’d mention that at times the water goes quickly and spins you around. We had one older gentleman get dizzy and asked to be taking off about half way through. Plus, you go through some fairly dark tunnels (one completely dark) and you do bump into the walls a lot.

That being said, we had a blast. The water is pretty chilly…but no more so than stepping into the Pacific on the California shores. The scenery is beautiful and it was just fun drifting along with the pull and ebb or the flowing waters.

Free day to visit the North Shore

Monday was our last full day and we chose to not have any set plans. Having stayed up late the night before it was nice to have a lazy day to sight see. Every visit to Kauai should include a drive to the North Shore.

Heading out we stopped for poke at a place called Leongs Meat House. OMG! The poke was nothing short of amazing.

Anahola Beach

Highway 56 doesn’t stick to the coast line so as we made our way north, we’d turn our attention to whatever caught our eye. First stop Anahola. Exiting on Anahola Road takes you to a beautiful beach. Here, I’m told, you can catch a spectacular sunrise. For you movie buffs out there, that mountain range you see from the shore is Kalalea Mountains. Featured in the “Raiders of the Lost Ark” opening credits, you can also see Kalalea at mile marker 14 off the 56.

Kilauea Point Lighthouse

Other than quirky, odd, and of course cemeteries in general; I like lighthouses. There’s a pretty one located on the point of Kilauea Bay. The Kilauea Point National Wildlife Refuge was closed but there were sea turtles swimming in the waters below and graceful white birds, called Cattle Egret, could be seen floating on the morning breeze.

Secret Beach

Our next stop took us to Kauapea Beach. Best known as Secret Beach, you take a small unpaved road on the from Kalihiwai Road. At the end of the dirt road, park and walk towards the trail on the left. Be aware if you have children that clothing is optional at this beach. Whether or not you catch someone in their birthday suit is anyone’s guess. Plus the walk down is steep and slippery.

Kilahiwai and Ahini Beaches

Further down on Hwy 56 you’ll find another road called Kilahiwai Rd. Traveling toward the edge of the island, the road comes to a fork. To your right Kalihiwai Beach, to the left and Anini Road you will travel along the coast to Anini Beach. On Anini Beach there are many beachfront rental houses. The road comes to a dead end and you’ll need to turn around, but if you have time it’s definitely worth a stop.

Princeville

There’s no missing Princeville. Luxury resorts at every turn. Maybe you’re thinking you’ll just skip right on through toward Hanalei Bay. But hidden down a small road with limited parking there is a small metal gate. If the gate is closed its advisable to not head down the path. Sure, you can walk around the gate…but even when the gate is open, the one mile trail down to the shore is slippery red clay and steep, the waters treacherous.

Once you make your way to the bottom you come to a lava shelf. Volcanic rock with small tidepools brimming with sea life are everywhere. And then you see them. in total there are three baths. The first two are open and swift currents could pull you under. The third bath is enclosed with calmer waters.

If you do decide to venture to Queens Bath, please use caution. In recent years nearly 30 people have drowned in and around these beautiful tide pools. The waves can be treacherous and have washed people off the rock and into angry waters. Wouldn’t want you to be the next.

Hanalei Bay

“Puff the Magic Dragon, lives by the sea. And frolicked in the autumn mist, in a land called…” Hanalei? Ask anyone from the North Shore and they swear the song is about this pretty area and the rocks that almost look like a dragon if you close one eye and squint really hard. But truth is, Peter, Paul and Mary’s song has no ties to here.

Even though the song wasn’t written about Hanalei Bay, you just get the feeling that lots of songs have been.

This was our last stop in the North Shore…directly following a stop at Ching Young Village and JoJo’s Shaved Ice. (DO NOT miss this shaved ice. There will be a line. You really do want to wait in it. OMG! Can I bring some home, please?)

O.K. where was I?

Hanalei Bay is Kauai’s largest bay. With almost two miles of long, beautiful beaches surrounded by dramatic mountains. For sure my next trip to the island I’ll spend more time here.

And like that, our trip was coming to a close.

All good things must come to an end

After dining at Cafe Portofino, near our resort we had to admit our wonderful holiday was ending. Given the chance, we’d be back soon. Kauai, with all it’s beauty and friendly people, has captured our hearts. There’s a lot ‘uhane aloha (aloha spirit) on this island and we hope it never changes. So, maybe you do want to go to Maui.

Have you visited Kauai? What did you like (or not like)? Which Hawaiian Island is your favorite?