Surfing on Kauai

I have an admonition. I can’t surf. Now I realize that this comes as a shock for most of you, but I just can’t do it. Yes, I live on an island. Yes, the surfing here is wonderful. Yes, people pay large amounts of money to fly to Hawaii and take surfing lessons every year. But as for me, I’m clumsy.

I remember trying to surf as a child. It didn’t go well. I could never stay up, and by up I don’t mean standing. I wasn’t that lucky. You see, I considered myself blessed if I could stay atop the surf board for any length of time before inevitably falling off. While most of my friends practiced and became better, I practiced and got more bruised. One time I went out and ended up water-logged, bruised, and bleeding. (I had accidentally fallen and then simultaneously hit my head on the surf board on my way down.) Who knows – perhaps this much klutziness is a talent.

My friends to this day laugh at me. I even had one friend buy me surfing lessons from Hawaiian Surfing Adventures on the north shore, but I knew even then that I was hopeless. I suppose I just don’t fit the stereotype of the typical Hawaiian native. But that’s okay. I’ve learned to really enjoy watching others surf over the years. And just in case I’m frightening you, don’t worry. I have never known another human being, whether native or tourist, to have as much trouble learning as I have had. I’m guess I’m just not meant to fly across the water.

To book Kauai Activities at a big discount or for more information on fun things to see and do on Kauai please call toll free 1-877-742-7893

Helicopter Tours

Okay, here is something fun for tourists and short term residents of Kauai. Did you know you can get a helicopter tour of the island? Well, you can! Believe me when I tell you that there is nothing quite like flying above the lush paradise of my hometown and seeing everything Kauai has to offer. There are unique features of the island that you can only see from the air, so a helicopter ride is your best chance.

Sunshine Helicopters (also known as Will Squyres Helicopter Tours) is a tour company that offers copter rides and spectacular aerial views for a pretty good price. And Safari Helicopter Tours is located right next door, offering rides in some of the best helicopters on the island. Only an hour of flying can get you into places you’ve never dreamed, observing vibrant vegetation, tropical rainforests, plunging waterfalls, and dramatic vistas. The helicopter company calls these places the unspoiled side of Kauai, the parts that only wildlife can travel. And you’ll get to see it.

If you want to go on a helicopter tour of the island, then head east. Sunshine Helicopters and Safari Helicopter Tours are both located in Lihue, which is off of HWY 56 near the Kuhio Mall. If you are coming from the airport, you’d simply have to take HWY 51 south to Rice Street, hang a right and travel up to Eiwa Street, hang another right and follow this street until it ends at Hardy Street. Go left at Hardy and take an almost immediate right on Akahi Street. Safari is at the end of Akahi and for Sunshine you’ll have to turn left on Ahukini Road. It will be on your left.

To book Kauai Activities at a big discount or for more information on fun things to see and do on Kauai please call toll free 1-877-742-7893

A Slack Key Concert on Kauai

On Sunday I was inspired. I drove over to Hanalei Bay and ate a picnic lunch, waiting for 3 pm to roll around. The bay is a nice area for a seaside day without the pounding surf. I enjoy going up there sometimes just to sit and think, often taking a book along or my guitar and lazing by the water. It’s very relaxing, which I very much enjoy. Plus, when I put a small hat out while I’m playing my guitar, sometimes I make pocket money!

Anyway, I usually hang out around Princeville on Friday and Sunday afternoons, for I love live music. I always have and I probably always will. And Princeville is usually the place to find it, though there are a few venues down south. Music gives me so much inspiration, and I find myself doing things I never thought I could like writing a book, cleaning up the house after my brother visits, learning the guitar, going on a zip line course, and more. Music speaks to me, especially if it is live and I know the musicians, which just happens to be the case with the McMasters.

The McMasters (also known as Doug and Sandy) play a Slack Key Concert almost every Friday and Sunday afternoon, and I often find myself entering the Hanalei Community Center to listen to their performances. The Community Center is home to myriad other activities as well, so I know the area well. It’s located just off of HWY 560 near the Ching Young Village Shopping Center. As a side note, the shopping center is a great place to find great restaurants, tour reservations, surfing lessons, and maybe great stores. You should definitely check it out if you are going to be visiting the area.

Anyway, the concert went well. After all, Doug and Sandy don’t just play music; they tell stories using their guitar and ukulele. Their music is soft, sweet, and relaxing. I can almost feel my internal frequencies adjusting to the spirit of aloha. I always leave their performances feeling refreshed and ready to tackle the week. So if you are on the island and want a wonderful music experience, come see them play. You won’t regret it.

To book Kauai Activities at a big discount or for more information on fun things to see and do on Kauai please call toll free 1-877-742-7893

Kauai Coffee – Move over Kona!

This might seem a bit odd, but I’ve decided to dedicate this blog post to my morning cup of coffee, which doesn’t make much sense until you live here. This morning I came downstairs, started the coffee, grabbed some cereal and a banana, and lounged outside on my porch swing. It was a beautiful morning, especially since I was up much earlier than normal. A friend was flying home today, and I promised to see her off. Of course, her flight was in two hours and she had yet to make an appearance…

Anyway, I was taking my first sip of Peaberry coffee while sitting out in the early morning breeze when it suddenly hit me how lucky I was. No, I’m not talking about how early I got up. No one who has to get up early is lucky. I was referring to my wonderful little house on our lovely island and the hot cup of coffee that I was able to drink without paying import fees. You see, Kauai Coffee is one of the best coffees in the world, and I have it on good authority that Starbucks just wouldn’t stand a chance against it.

The mix I was drinking is called Peaberry, a rich dark roast with a smooth almost chocolaty flavor. I love bold coffees in the morning, so I usually buy Peaberry, though many of the other roasts made on the island are quite good too. The friend I’m taking to the airport loves flavored coffees, so I bought her a bag of Kauai Coffee Hawaiian Coconut Caramel Crunch, which she loved. In fact, I caught her slipping it into her suitcase last night.

You know, I can buy any flavor of Kauai Coffee I want from the store. But if you are a tourist, you might enjoy touring the coffee plantation yourself. The plantation is located less than 20 miles from the airport on the southwest side of the island. You just take HWY 50 past Kalaheo and go south on the 540 and you’ll see it. The plantation gives tours and does free coffee tasting sessions, so you can find the exact coffee you want to bring home with you. It really is worth the visit.

So here’s to you, my wonderful cup of coffee. Thank you for waking me up each morning and keeping me going each day with your flavorful caffeine and your wonderful aroma.

To book Kauai Activities at a big discount or for more information on fun things to see and do on Kauai please call toll free 1-877-742-7893

High Adventures

Kauai is home to adventure, at least that’s what we tell the tourists. Honestly, though, it’s true. I’d been saving up some money and last month I headed up the mountain for some zip-line fun. The course was fierce but amazing, jumping off of a 1200-foot peak and zipping down the mountain into the valley below. I even got to see a few of the hidden pools on the island as I relaxed for a mid-day meal with my fellow high-adventurers, most of which were tourists.

It was an exhilarating, but scary experience, especially when we came upon the valley crossing, an extension bridge 80 feet in the air that swung with our every step. It was at that point that I remembered why I had never gone on this high-flying trip before: I hate bridges. It turned out okay though. I made it across the bridge unscathed and conquered a bit of fear in the process.

The outing I undertook was called the Zip n’ Dip Expedition, a shorter excursion running about $125 plus tax. Of course, by shorter I mean only 3-5 hours instead of an all day trek. Usually the other tours involve kayaking or horseback riding or something. I opted for something simple. All in all, it was a great day and a trip that I would recommend to anyone… well, anyone who isn’t afraid of heights!

To book Kauai Activities at a big discount or for more information on fun things to see and do on Kauai please call toll free 1-877-742-7893

Lighthouses and Inspiration

I’m a reader and a writer. I always have been and I always will be. However, I hate to read and write indoors. There is something about living in a beautiful place that fills you with dread about boring white walls and no sea breezes. As much as possible, I like to find interesting places to read and put my thoughts together, often times heading into the dense vegetation and finding a nice log to sit upon or a tree to climb. There is even a waterfall I know about, but it takes a while to get there.

Yesterday, I grabbed my book (a binder of ideas and stories I’ve been collecting) and headed north on HWY 56 to Kiauea Road, the site of the Kilauea Lighthouse. As a bit of background, you should know that the Kilauea Lighthouse was built on the northern shore of Kauai in 1913 and is a part of the Kilauea Point National Wildlife Refuge, a place every tourist must go. This lighthouse has the largest clamshell lens in the world, though that particular lens is now just for show, and you can take tours of the surrounding area and the lighthouse itself if you wish.

It is absolutely gorgeous up there on the cliff. I like to look out to sea, imagining the tales it could tell, tales of wayward ships, epic loves, and lonely nights watching the island it was sworn to protect. Okay, maybe I’m getting a bit carried away, but you get the idea. Anyway, just as I had picked up my pen, I saw it: a beautiful dolphin jumping happily into the ocean. That sparked a few ideas, and before I knew it, the sun was starting to set and I was starving. I had been there for hours! Oh well, at least I have some good chapters written.

To book Kauai Activities at a big discount or for more information on fun things to see and do on Kauai please call toll free 1-877-742-7893

Helicopter Tours

Your Helicopter tour over the Kauai is the most scenic and personalized tour of its kind. Everyone should experience such a tour at least once in a lifetime, and there is no better place than Kauai because so much of the island can only be seen from the air. This is the only way most people can see the magnificent beauty of Kauai's remote interior. Tours leave from Princeville Airport, Lihue, and Port Allen. There are few experiences that can match a helicopter flight over the most beautiful island in the world.

To book Kauai Activities at a big discount or for more information on fun things to see and do on Kauai please call toll free 1-877-742-7893

Sailing Tours

Several boat companies host a variety of open ocean sailing charters in large, seaworthy, ocean catamarans. The most popular cruise travels far up the Napali Coast where you will get the chance to snorkel and scuba among turtle and tropical fish. Sunset cruises complete with cocktails, as well as leisurely Kauai sailing tours down the Napali Coast can be booked online by calling the number below.

To book Kauai Activities at a big discount or for more information on fun things to see and do on Kauai please call toll free 1-877-742-7893

Scuba

Kauai's clean, clear offshore waters attract scuba divers from all over the world. There is a dive shop in almost every town on the island, so gear rental, air, and instruction can be easily found. Scuba lessons and certification for beginners is available in most towns. Some adventurous tours included a Na Pali Coast Tour along with a stop at the forbidden island of Niihau where you can snorkel and dive in its crystal clear waters. There is a dive shop in almost every town on the island, so gear rental, air, and instruction can be easily found.

To book Kauai Activities at a big discount or for more information on fun things to see and do on Kauai please call toll free 1-877-742-7893

Kayaking

can be enjoyed on several Kauai Rivers and in the Ocean during the summer months. On our East shore, the Wailua River is the most popular location for river Kayaking with both guided and self-guided trips. Paddle up river and take a short hike to the hidden falls and pond. Guided trips up the Hulei'a River in Lihue are a true Hawaiian adventure through the wildlife refuge, past the Menehune Fish Pond, with the Hawaiian family owners sharing stories of ancient Hawaii. Self-guided Kayaking with car top carriers may also be found on the Kalihiwai River and the Hanalei Rivers to the North.

To book Kauai Activities at a big discount or for more information on fun things to see and do on Kauai please call toll free 1-877-742-7893

Windsurfing

at its best is found at Tunnels Beach and at Anini Beach where companies offer equipment rentals and lessons. Other favorite spots are Hanalei Bay and Poipu Beach. You may rent equipment in Hanalei, and drive to any spot you wish. You can also book a Kauai windsurfing lesson online. Shipwreck Beach in Poipu is strictly for very experienced wind surfers.

To book Kauai Activities at a big discount or for more information on fun things to see and do on Kauai please call toll free 1-877-742-7893

Fishing

Half and full day charters, with all fishing gear included, are available. Charters depart from Nawiliwili, Poipu, and Port Allen. The captain usually divides the fish according to the wants and needs of the parties who are fishing. The boats usually provide all fishing gear and some beverages. All charters typically offer trips for individuals and groups to offshore areas teeming with exciting game fish such Sailfish, Stripe Marlin, Ono and Ahi tuna. Fresh Water Bass fishing is also available on Kaua'i's most beautiful fresh water reservoirs.

To book Kauai Activities at a big discount or for more information on fun things to see and do on Kauai please call toll free 1-877-742-7893

Hiking

The Waimea Canyon and Koke'e State Parks offer numerous hikes from easy to the most strenuous. You can hike several trails that meander throughout Kaua'i's ethereal mountain country, where you will encounter plant and bird species found nowhere else on earth.At the end of the road after Ke'e beach is the Na Pali Trail and trail head to the ancient Kalalau Valley and the Na Pali Coastline. Day hikers enjoy hikes to Hanakapiai Beach or the longer trek to Hanakapiai Falls. Hikes beyond that point require permits and overnight camping due to the length of time to walk. From Ke'e Beach parking area, you can hike to the magnificent Hanakapiai Falls. Short hikes can be enjoyed from trails beginning above Opaekaa Falls lookout in Wailua. The best way to go hiking is to take a guided tour from an experienced guide.

To book Kauai Activities at a big discount or for more information on fun things to see and do on Kauai please call toll free 1-877-742-7893

Snorkeling

There good places to snorkel from beaches such as Anini Beach which is a along a 3 mile coastline enclosed by a long outer reef. Inside the reef, you will encounter a myriad of colorful tropical fish and several species of coral. Ke'e Beach and Tunnels Beach both known for their good water clarity. The best way to enjoy snorkeling on Kauai is to book a Kauai snorkeling tour online and get the benefit of a guided tour from an experienced professional.

To book Kauai Activities at a big discount or for more information on fun things to see and do on Kauai please call toll free 1-877-742-7893

Horseback Riding

on Kauai is an exciting experience. There are companies who offer 3 hour trail rides through Kauai's back country to a waterfall, for a picnic and a swim.

There are also private rides available as well as live cattle drives and sunset rides on The South Side.

To book Kauai Activities at a big discount or for more information on fun things to see and do on Kauai please call toll free 1-877-742-7893

Surfing

The North Shore of Kaua'i is a winter surfing Mecca, and in the summer, Poipu Beach on the South shore and our West shore beaches produce the best waves. Kauai Surfing lessons are available from Championship Surfers. Brennecke's Beach is known for great body boarding and body surfing. Other breaks in the Poipu Beach area are Shipwrecks Beach, Acid Drops, Waiohai, PKs and Centers.

On the West side is the famous Pakala's Beach just before Waimea Town. Far west beaches of Kekaha and those of Barking Sands and Poli Hale also offer big breaks and at times, giant expert only surf. Kalapaki Beach and Hanamaulu Bay in Lihue offer gentle waves for beginners, while further North, Kalihiwai Bay and Hanalei Bay is expert only in the Winter months. On Kaua'i, there are nearly as many surf spots as there are beaches.

To book Kauai Activities at a big discount or for more information on fun things to see and do on Kauai please call toll free 1-877-742-7893

Boat Tours

Are the best way to explore the magical Napali Coast. Zodiac tours, catamaran cruises, and, leave from Hanalei Lihue, Poipu and Port Allen. Five-hour combination snorkel and sightseeing excursions of our ancient Na Pali coastline are popular. You should reserve tours early as they fill up fast. You can book Napali Coast Boat Tours online. Vessel choices vary with the seasons and include Power Cats and Full Sail Catamarans, with passenger counts of 12 to 50. Winter months are limited to the larger boats for open water off shore Humpback Whale watchng tours. The Humpback whales are normally visible in our waters, from late December to late March.

To book Kauai Activities at a big discount or for more information on fun things to see and do on Kauai please call toll free 1-877-742-7893

Luaus

The torches are lit, the night is filled with music, and family members gather to bring you a casual, relaxing and romantic dining experience that starts off with the Imu Ceremony - the unearthing of the traditional pig, cooked to perfection in an underground oven.....and thirst-quenching tropical cocktails are served inside the luau hale. The luau meal features traditional luau favorites, tropical fruit and a special Hawaiian dessert table Hawaiian musicians serenade dinners during the luau meal. Young members of the family take the stage during the entertainment, and even invite guests up on stage for a hula lesson.

To book Kauai Activities at a big discount or for more information on fun things to see and do on Kauai please call toll free 1-877-742-7893

Movie Tours

Movie tours take you to all of the famous movie locations on Kauai - which are quite a few. You will see where scenes were filmed in movies such as: Jurassic Park to Raiders of the Lost Ark, Donovan's Reef to Outbreak, Gilligan's Island to Fantasy Island to Blue Hawaii to South Pacific. New air conditioned mini-buses are very comfortable and acts as a theater on wheels featuring individual reclining seats, large center aisle, a TV monitor, vcr and surround sound to bring the movie scenes front and center.

To book Kauai Activities at a big discount or for more information on fun things to see and do on Kauai please call toll free 1-877-742-7893

Eco Tours

Eco tours are rapidly becoming Kauai's most popular outdoor activity. Sound Eco tourism involves travel to natural destinations, minimizes impact, builds environmental awareness, provides direct financial benefits for conservation, provides financial benefits and empowerment for local people, respects local culture, and supports human rights and democratic movements.

To book Kauai Activities at a big discount or for more information on fun things to see and do on Kauai please call toll free 1-877-742-7893