Hele Mei Hoohiwahiwa Kauai

Hele Mei Hoohiwahiwa Kauai - Come Celebrate Kauai!

Preparing for summer season on Kauai is always exciting. All winter, Friends have been planning their vacations and when they arrive at Lihue Airport, they are ready to relax, explore, and let the “magic” of the Garden Island reinvigorate passion in their lives. It is also exciting when people see our Facebook posts and decide “I need a vacation now” – then call us to get their get-away started. Wow!  The power of decisions!
Over the past few days, we have Enjoyed re-reading the messages left by Friends on our Facebook page. They share exactly how they love spending time on Kauai and what they love doing. Each message is exciting to read and they helped us decide to include a sample of our Facebook Friend’s “Top 5 things we love about Kauai” in this new Feature story. We call this edition “Hele Mei Hoohiwahiwa,” which means “Come Celebrate” and explore the many great wonders on Kauai!  

Top 5 Things Our Facebook Friends Love About Kauai!
#1: How Close Kauai Really Is! 
Yes, it is true.  Kauai is less than 6 hours from all West Coast mainland airports: San Diego, Los Angeles, San Francisco, Seattle, and more! Currently, there is a 3-hour time change. So let’s say you left around 10 AM… you could find yourself on Kauai in time for lunch at The Beach House in Poipu!



Another great thing Friends love about Kauai is… there are many airlines that fly to Kauai!  Hawaiian Airlines, Delta, Alaska Airlines, United Airlines, US Airways, and more! We often talk about www.Kayak.com in our Facebook posts because they do a great job of showing who has the next flight out to Kauai – and that helps you get here faster! :-)

#2: The Fresh Air and Views
Friends often talk about the things they see once they get off the plane at Lihue Airport. Lush green foliage, beautiful flowers, bright blue skies – and then they get to the coastline!
The ride to their vacation accommodation and the scenery around their destination offers even more amazing views. On the West Side there is Waimea Canyon, the Grand Canyon of the Pacific. On the South Shore, Friends talk about seeing Spouting Horn, the Old Faithful-type geyser that shoots gusts of Pacific Ocean water way up into the air, causing a refreshingly cool spray of water!
On the East Side, we often hear about the miles of white sand beach, called the “Coconut Coast” because of the coconut trees that line the shore. On the North Shore, Princeville, Hanalei, and Haena offer exquisite ocean vistas that include swimming, surfing, golfing, and wonderful dining options to fit every appetite.

#3: The Accommodation Choices
We love reading how much our guests love staying at our accommodations. In fact, Kauai Vacation Rentals & Real Estate, Inc has over 200+ accommodations throughout the island, including luxurious estates, easy get-away condos, oceanview homes, and hillside cottages – all conveniently close to endless activities. 
Every week, we share Wiki Wiki Wednesday specials with our Facebook and Twitter Friends so they can get their travel plans underway at great prices. We also promote Featured Properties (see below) that share ideas on “great places to stay” on Kauai. 
To get your plans started, take a look at our videos on YouTube. They provide great ideas on what to expect, how to choose a vacation rental, and how to Enjoy the North, South, East and West sides of Kauai. Our website is open 24-hours a day and if you want to ask us any questions, just give us a call at 808-245-8841 or 800-367-5025.  We look forward to your call!

#4 – All The Great Things To Do and See
Many of our guests talk about spending time on the beach with family, friends, their children. In fact, US News and World Report’s “Travel” website voted Kauai #2 in the category of “Most Relaxing Beaches” and #2 in the category of “Best Beaches in the World.” Our prior Feature story (see it here) also describes many of Kauai’s great beaches and includes ocean safety tips from our website.  As always, we remind you to swim where there are lifeguards and get updated beach reports from www.KauaiExplorer.com.  
We also saw US News and World Report’s review of Poipu Beach (above), saying “…you won't find another beach on Kauai that appeals to everyone quite like Poipu. Snorkeling, swimming, boogie boarding, and surfing are all popular here… so is lazing about on the warm golden sand.”  Ahhh… sounds nice to us!  Read more of the review here.

#5 Perfecting Your Golf Game


Our Kauai guests LOVE golf.  In fact, Kauai has seven 18-hole golf courses and each offers breathtaking views that help reinvigorate your game. The Kiahuna Golf Club (above) was recently renovated by architect Robert Trent Jones, Jr. and includes passage by the remains of an ancient Hawaiian village.

 
Another wonderful course is the Prince Golf Course at Princeville (right), often called “one of the most beautiful courses in the world.” Golf Digest ranks it the #1 Golf Course in Hawaii and one of “America’s Top 100 Greatest Courses.”  The par 72 course was also designed by Robert Trent Jones, Jr., and is situated on “pristine land” overlooking the ocean and mountains.  To see a virtual “flyover” of the Prince Golf Course, click here!

 

Hele Mei Hoohiwahiwa Kauai - Come Celebrate Kauai
Every day is a great day to explore Kauai.  In fact, when you read our prior Feature stories, you’ll see we love sharing Kauai ideas with our guests. Yes, you can spend your time hiking, swimming, and being outdoors. You can also kick back in one of our wonderful vacation accommodations and just RELAX.  Sleep in. Make a tasty meal. Catch up on your favorite books and TV shows. Meditate, sleep, and “let yourself go” on one of the world’s most beautiful island vacation destinations.

Right now, folks all around the world are starting to put away their winter clothes and pull out their sandals, shorts, and beach towels. Spring is emerging and here on Kauai, we are rev’d up with excitement for another awesome Garden Island summer. 

Are you ready to get your vacation plans underway? Here are a few ideas of what to do when you arrive!


Events Happening on Kauai During The Next Few Weeks

100TH YEAR ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION OF THE KILAUEA LIGHTHOUSE
Join the fun, May 1st through the 5th, as Kauai celebrates the 100th year anniversary of the Kilauea Lighthouse. Five days of festivities include the official opening ceremony on May 1st, with the lighthouse re-dedication and guided tours! Saturday, May 4th, the light will be turned on at 6:30 PM and admission is FREE all day.  On May 5th, join the community celebration with a parade through Kilauea town. It ends at Kilauea Park with a concert, food, water slides, hula halau, and so much more!  Learn more from the Kilauea Point Natural History Association!



KAUAI OKINAWAN DANCE FESTIVAL
Love dancing? You are in luck! Friday, May 10th and Saturday May 11th, stop by the Kauai Veterans Center at 3125 Kapule Hwy, in Lihue, for a festival celebrating Okinawan culture. Enjoy live entertainment and treat yourself to delicious Okinawan foods. The celebration is FREE and everyone is invited!  :)
 



PEDAL TO THE MEADOW
Ready for a challenge?! Pedal to the Meadow is the race for you! May 16th at Kekaha Neighborhood Center, participate in the most challenging, “official” bicycle race on Kauai! Starting in Kekaha, ride 15.75 miles at an elevation gain of 3,835 feet and finish in Kanaloahuluhulu Meadow, in Kokee State Park. The race begins at 6:00 AM and participation is FREE. Challenge accepted? Learn more about Pedal To The Meadow “The bicycle hill climb race on Kauai,” here!




A TASTE OF OLD KAUAI
Here is your chance for a whole new experience in food! Join “A Culinary Romp Through Paradise” on the East Side of Kauai, May 10th, followed by “A Taste of Old Kauai” on May 17th on the North Shore. This is a great way to immerse yourself in the beauty of “old Kauai” and learn about the taro plant, a staple of Hawaiian tradition, complete with a yummy lunch filled with fresh seasonal vegetables and locally acquired meats and fishes. Click here to learn more and to make your reservations!
 

2013 KAUAI POLYNESIAN FESTIVAL
This year’s Kauai Polynesian Festival takes place during Memorial Weekend, May 24-26, 2013. The Vidinha Stadium soccer field hosts this year’s celebration of Tahitian, Maori, Samoan, and Hawaiian entertainment – kicking off Friday with “Polynesian Experience,” a hands-on cultural crafts & dance event. Learn weaving techniques using the fronds of the coconut and hala tree; learn how to husk a coconut; learn spear throwing; and let pros teach you how to dance the hula.



The 3-day festival has so much more going on and we invite you to visit the official site and see the updated schedule.

Ready For Kauai? See Our Featured Properties, Below!

Special Thanks to: Wikipedia, Kauai Festivals.com, KauaiGolfCourses, Friends on Flickr, and Kauai Vacation Rentals & Real Estate, Inc’s amazing collection of vacation accommodations.

Kauai Adventure: Hali'a Milimili - Cherished Memories

ALOHA FROM KAUAI!

Spring is revving up on Kauai and what a great time to head to the beach. And what a great number of beaches we have to choose from here on the Garden Island!  You know that Beach Boys song where they name beach after beach? Well imagine that tune when you read the following!

 

All over the Island… it’s a bright sunny day.  Everybody’s gone surfin… surfin’ Kauai! 

We’ll be starting at Anini, then to Hanalei Bay.
Ke’e Beach off Hwy 560, then to Lumahai. 

Lydgate Beach Park is great for children; so is Kalapaki... Kealia has a half-mile of golden sand… and lifeguards all day.

Then we’re heading down to Poipu, where you can watch the waves. Then to Salt Pond Beach Park… in Hanapepe.

Kekaha Beach is great for sun-bathing, and that’s a mighty fine day… Everybody’s Enjoying beach days… across Kauai!

Well, how did we do? Were you tapping your feet like us? Here is the best beach tip we can give all our Friends:  Always swim where there are lifeguards and use caution when Enjoying Kauai’s beautiful beaches. Your safety is paramount to us and we want you to have an amazing Kauai vacation. So use caution, check with lifeguards on duty, and see the Ocean Safety Tips on our website for helpful information.  

 

A WORD FROM OUR FRIENDS!

Every day, we get messages from our Facebook Friends sharing all the great times they have had on Kauai – and how excited they are to be coming back!  Some talk about their weddings, some talk about their favorite shopping, and others talk about the cool people they met. Many talk about the great time they had at one of our awesome vacation rental accommodations, like our beach front condos, sprawling estates – and the homes they have seen featured on TV shows like “House Hunters on Vacation.”  And you know what? We absolutely love it!

In fact, here are a few comments Friends have sent us recently:

Delaina says:  “Having the time of our lives here!!!!”

Misty says:  “32 more days and I will be there for my 3rd time…”

Kay says:  “Our first visit was in 2000 and we have been going back every year since. I love it!”

Gerrie says: “Coming in August for 3 glorious weeks. My favorite place in the world”

It is so awesome to be sitting here at work reading these messages as they pop in.  Thanks for sending, everyone! It makes us happy knowing we help our guests create amazing vacations, for over 35 years!  And when your Facebook messages come in, it just makes our day!  

So, to show our appreciation, every Wednesday we share with our Facebook and Twitter Friends “Wiki Wiki Wednesday” – special offers that help our Friends save money on their next Kauai vacation. If you see something you like, be sure to share it with your Friends. We look forward to seeing you all here very soon! 

Now… we are excited to present the third part in our Friend-shared story: Kauai Adventure #3.  We also have new featured properties below AND some tips on great things to do on Kauai in the next few weeks.

Are you ready to get your 2013 vacation plans underway? So are we! Just give us a call at 800-367-5025 and we will help you get things started! Mahalo!

 

KAUAI ADVENTURE #3: MEMORIES OF A LIFETIME

My first vacation on Kauai was indeed an adventure. Beach time, incredible cuisine, unforgettable sights – and great opportunities for shopping.  In fact, when my group of pals left our Princeville condo for the last time (at least for this trip) we headed over to the East Side town of Kapa’a for one last day of fun.  Our flight departed Lihue Airport in the evening so we had all day to do as we pleased.  When we reached Kapa’a, we parked our rental cars and split up with a plan to meet for lunch in a couple of hours to decide our next move.

 

I headed off to check out the local shops right away in search of a "dirt shirt" as a souvenir.  You see, Kauai is covered with this “iron-rich” soil that looks red when you see it up close and when you are out hiking. There is also a great chance you’ll bring some home on your clothes.  Not to say you will get dirt on you just by visiting, it’s just one of those cool things about Kauai that makes you want to bring some home. I found a "dirt shirt shop” pretty quickly in town and the salesman was nice enough to give me some advice.  "Be sure to rinse this out with a hose or in a tub you don't care about before mixing it with other wash," he said with a smile.  And he was right. 

Shopping on Kauai’s East Side was fun! I bought chocolate-covered macadamia nuts, playing cards, beach towels, t- shirts, and more from nearby shops in the town. Everything was affordable and now I have many great things to remind me of my awesome Kauai Adventure.  There are lots of great specialty shops in Kapa’a as well as art galleries to explore.  There is also a shave ice stand at Ono Family Restaurant, a cute glass-blowing shop, and small cafes all within a 2-block walk from the ocean.

 

You may recall my first story about “Kauai through the eyes of a first-time visitor” was about hiking along Na Pali Coast State Wilderness Park and the breathtaking drive from the West Side all the way to Princeville.  Then my second story was about My Amazing Beach Day, which included snorkeling and seeing lots of underwater fishes. (Both stories are located on the Kauai Vacation Rentals Blog, located here). And now, on my last day on Kauai, it was truly special to spend time with Friends reminiscing about all the great times we had, how relaxed we were, and how we could not wait to come back to Kauai again. Seriously! 

 

Following a scrumptious lunch with dishes ranging from fish tacos to juicy burgers at the Olympic Café, we all decided to do our own thing again. A couple of pals drove down to Poipu to see the Spouting Horn geyser, a natural blow hole reminiscent of those in Yellowstone. I chose to take a nice little walk to digest my meal. Later, when I drove down to the South Shore, I found my pals hanging out on the beach beside The Beach House Enjoying the view. 

It was truly a wonderful day. The beautiful ocean, the soft sun, and the pristine weather made it nearly impossible to leave. And as if this perfect day could get any better, we even caught sight of an impressive rainbow on our way back to the airport shortly before sunset.

My first time on Kauai was truly amazing. Even while I write this story, I have a smile on my face and I can still see how great my pals looked on our last day.  In Hawaiian, the word for Cherished Memories is Hali’a Milimili – and that’s exactly what Kauai delivered.  Was it hard getting on the airplane and heading home? You bet – and you can also bet I’ll be coming back!

 

THINGS TO DO AND SEE ON KAUAI IN THE NEXT FEW WEEKS

 

The Spring Fantasy Orchid Show 

For all orchid lovers, the Garden Island Orchid Society is having their annual Spring Fantasy Orchid Show on April 5th and 6th, 2013 at the United Church of Christ in Hanapepe (across from the fire station). Hours are 1:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. on the April 5th and 9:00AM until 4:00PM on April 6th.  In addition to the show, there are orchid plants, orchid crafts, and food for sale. No entrance fee, learn more here!

 

 

A Culinary Romp Through Paradise

Take a culinary romp through paradise with Kauai’s Celebration Festival in Lihue, at Kilohana Plantation on April 19th. The day-long event takes you from “farm to fork” with a plantation-style train ride through an exotic fruit orchard, followed by a gourmet four-course lunch. Yum! End your day with an exclusive tour of Hawai‘i`s only meadery (a winery that produces honey wines or meads). Learn all about it here!

 
 

 

Spring Soaker Ohana Day

Ohana means family! What a great way to spend the day with your ohana at The Koloa Early School’s “Spring Soaker Ohana Day.” Activities for keiki (children) include multiple waterslides, a large bounce house, a crafts tent, food booths, a lucky drawing, and more! The event is $15 for children ages 3 to 18. Children 2 and under and adults over 18 are free! Come join the fun Saturday, April 20th at the Koloa Ballpark from 11AM to 3PM. Learn more here!

 

 

 

 

Special Thanks to: Burke and RonHamProd, MC, Wikipedia, Kauai Festivals.com, Friends on Flickr, and Kauai Vacation Rentals & Real Estate, Inc’s amazing collection of vacation accommodations.

Kauai Adventure #2: An Amazing Day at the Beach

BIG BREATH IN, BIG BREATH OUT

We recently asked our Friends on Facebook “Who would make your Top 5 list of friends you would bring to Kauai” – and how delighted we were by the answers!  Many said “my wife” or “my girlfriend,” while one of our Friends said “my boyfriend AND my husband,” which made us laugh as she explained they are the same person.  This is one of the most Enjoyable parts of talking about and sharing the many great things to do on Kauai. We love chatting with you on Facebook and Twitter, and especially hearing how you love Kauai as much as we do!

During our February and March celebration of “Love,” we have so many great Wiki Wiki Wednesday Specials that can help bring some much needed rest and relaxation to your winter. After all, there are only so many places where you can kick your shoes off and go for a walk on the beach during winter. Good thing for us all, Kauai is just a few hours away from all U.S. west coast airports. So come on! Let your hair down. Grab the suntan lotion, your electronic book, and your headphones.  It’s time for another Kauai Adventure as experienced through the eyes of a first-time Kauai visitor – and this time, it’s all about the beach!

Kauai Vacation Rentals & Real Estate, Inc is celebrating 35+ years of assisting guests create AMAZING Kauai holidays. When it comes time to take your vacation this year, remember this:  You can stay with us! 

MY KAUAI ADVENTURE & THE MEMORIES OF MY AWESOME BEACH DAY!

During my first week in Kauai, I had a great balance between days of adventure and days of rest, great meals, and lots of sunshine.  One morning, my group of pals decided we should take ourselves to the beach to Enjoy the great outdoors. So we set out to find a beach that was: a) near our “headquarters” in Princeville; b) somewhat secluded yet has a lifeguard on duty; and c) offers something for everyone.  One of my pals, for example, loves to read and sip his drink in the shade.  Another loves to explore.  Others, like myself, wanted a nice little mix of both resting and exploring!

 

So, we agreed upon a little hideaway west of Hanalei, one of several beaches on the island we could have chosen, by the way.  After finishing some leftovers, we packed up the car with a cooler full of snacks and drinks, some snorkeling gear – in case the mood struck us – and plenty of beach towels, sunscreen, etc.  The drive from Princeville took about a half hour and when we found the little area to park, it’s as if the beach were there just for us!  There were people getting ready to fish and surf; and the beach was very inviting.

After preparing our “base camp” in the shade of some trees, we all did our own thing.  I took a walk down the beach with my pal, who was in a similar mood of, “Let’s walk and see what we feel like doing…”  Meanwhile, my “explorer” pal immediately took a jog in the direction of an area rumored to have sea turtles.  My other friends stayed by the base camp reading and sun tanning. Now, luckily, we brought snorkel gear with us on our walk up the beach and let me tell you what I saw.  

The view was incredible: behind us was this dramatic peak, behind which we kept saying lived King Kong. And of course, the soft, blue-green Pacific gently crashing at our feet.

Once we made our way further along the beach, we saw a small crowd of beach-goers who had come to snorkel and figured, “why not?” We applied our goggles and those flippers – which for me were rather awkward at first – and headed into the sea.  The temperature, by the way, was refreshing and the snorkeling took us to another world. 

We were swimming in maybe three feet of Pacific water.  There was a colorful reef within arm’s reach of us lining the ocean floor.  There were brightly colored fish to our left and long silver ones that were maybe three inches long swimming in a school of thousands to our right.  Ahead of us, the reef was more dramatic and even more colorful.  We began to notice little sea creatures poking their heads in and out of the reef and lava tubes.  Then, the reef drops down maybe 20-30 feet.

Throughout the day, we did more of the same. We walked, we looked for turtles, we rested, we tanned, we read – and we even saw a local family catch a fish about three feet long in the surf for their supper.

As the sun started setting, we were ready to eat after having had beach snacks all day long.  We all piled into our vehicles and headed back to Princeville where we had dinner at The Tavern, at the Prince Golf Course, which is well worth a visit if you’re up this way. 

This beach day, capped off by a tremendous and decadently delicious dinner, was an exclamation mark on my pretty awesome trip to Kauai. Being a first-time visitor, mixing in days of adventure with days of complete relaxation really worked out well.  And even though this flashback describes a beach on the North Shore, there are still numerous phenomenal beach spots throughout the island. That’s why I thought this particular day was worth describing and sharing the lifelong memories I made on Kauai! Have a great time on your visit! 

: - )

 

 

Things to Do and See on Kauai In Next Few Weeks

 

It’s the Annual Waimea Town Celebration starting February 16-24! The West Side of Kauai comes to life with an amazing assortment of LIVE entertainment, including a Hawaiian rodeo, canoe and stand up paddle races, a film festival, softball, 3-on-3 basketball tournaments, a fun run (10K, 5K, 2K), hat lei and ʻukulele contests, and cultural exhibits – all culminating in a 2-day CELEBRATION February 22^nd and 23^rd with continuous entertainment on the big stage. Join us and become a part of our commUNITY tradition! Food booths, games and rides for the keiki, and more!  

 

Kauai's Slack Key Guitar and Ukulele Concert

Come Enjoy a traditional Hawaiian slack-key guitar and 'ukulele concert featuring songs and stories telling Kauai’s history. Tickets cost $20 ($15 keiki & seniors) and this year’s concert theme is “Tune your world to Aloha.” The event is guided by the kupuna (elders) who have dedicated their lives to continuing the family tradition of slack key music. Sunday, February 24^th from 3:00 to 5:00 PM at the Hanalei Community Center.  More info here.  

 

Prince Kuhio Celebration of Kauai

Get ready for two weeks of events celebrating Prince Kuhio's birthday. Kuhio was one of Hawaii's most beloved alii (royalty) and statesmen. The fun starts on March 16^th in Poipu, Eleele, Lihue and Wailua and includes many interactive educational sessions about Hawaiian cultural practices and arts. Events include the Garden Isle Artisan Fair, The Prince Kuhio Rodeo, a torchlighing/singing/hula ceremony, a canoe race, and numerous music events. Come Enjoy the fun throughout the island, and learn more about the celebration, here! 

 

 

 

Special Thanks to: Burke and RonHamProd, MC, Wikipedia, Kauai Festivals.com, Friends on Flickr, Globetrottergirls.com, and Kauai Vacation Rentals & Real Estate, Inc’s amazing collection of vacation accommodations.

 

THE ROAD TO YOUR KAUAI ADVENTURE - #1

THE ROAD TO YOUR KAUAI ADVENTURE

Ahhhh… 2013. Off to a great start! Fun holiday memories. All caught up with the family. Sure, it is cold in a few places around the world and that’s probably why many of our Facebook friends are already asking us to help get their vacation planning started. :-)  Good thing for all of us, we work and live on Kauai – and that means everyone benefits from our 35+ years of vacation accommodation experience. Plus, Kauai Vacation Rentals & Real Estate, Inc has over 200 accommodations spanning the North Shore to the South Shore, and the East Side to the West Side! And oh how beautiful Kauai is right now!

In the next few Feature stories, we thought to share some first-hand experiences from our Facebook friends who visited the Garden Island for the first time. Through their eyes, we all get to learn about their island adventures to inspire us all to make time for a vacation this year. So are you ready? Cool. Pull your chair a little closer and let’s take a look at…


My First Time to Kauai – and My Amazing Hiking Adventure!

I decided within myself to keep an open mind on my first trip to Kauai because I really didn’t know what to expect. I have heard blanket statements from friends returning from Kauai, like “Oh, I can’t wait to go back…” and “It was literally AMAZING…” and even, “I might have to move there!” When my group of pals decided it was time for an island adventure, we picked up a copy of The Ultimate Kauai Guidebook: Kauai Revealed to prepare ourselves, which turned out to be one of our best pre-Kauai purchases. When it came to planning our beach days and hikes, we agreed to treat every day as an adventure with no expectations. That said, I would like to share two “states of mind” that made my Kauai vacation something I’ll remember forever. 

First, keep an open mind and remain flexible. That’s a great way of keeping your options open as you explore the many regions of Kauai. Your own experience may include some welcome surprises and without a rigid timetable you’ll grow accustomed to “Aloha time” very quickly! The second thought to share is my first time to Kauai can be summed up this way: a trip to Kauai is more than a vacation, it’s an adventure!

I’m going to do my best to describe my first Monday on the island. My group of five pals and I were on Kauai for a few days staying in Princeville on the North Shore. The night before our big hike, we started the evening watching the sun set from the St. Regis Hotel. Believe me when I say life feels like heaven when you have the sun setting softly over the North Shore mountains while holding your sweetheart in one hand and a St. Regis tropical drink in the other!
  
The next morning we headed to a popular town called Hanapepe on the West Side which has plenty of art galleries and restaurants. That’s where I received another lesson in “Aloha time” when I asked one of the restaurant proprietors if she was open. She replied, “Oh, yeah! I should plug in the sign, huh?” And then we laughed genuinely and she said it was OK for me to do the honors. Over lunch, my group of pals decided Waimea Canyon was our destination for a hike. Incidentally, we had a scrumptious, authentic Hawaiian lunch of local pork, chicken and fish along with macaroni salad and some Asian-inspired noodles. We also hydrated amply so we would be ready for our ambitious hike. 

After lunch we drove West until we reached Waimea Canyon and Kokee Start Park. The drive took about 1 hour and we got to see many areas of Kauai along the way. We began our hike at about 1:30pm, realizing we could have started earlier. But hey, we are on Kauai time so the time we arrived was perfect. Though if you really want to get the most of your adventure, you may want to allocate plenty of sunlight hours for hiking. Regardless, we had plenty of water, related supplies, and even found a couple of great walking sticks along the way. It is important to note the path was rugged and really called for our attention. Still, along the way, we caught some tremendous views of the island’s beautiful northwest side. 


   

The highlight of the hike was reaching the vista that overlooks the Na’Pali coastline! Imagine hiking over three miles in the sunshine with an occasional steep grade to be rewarded by reaching a dramatic, awe-inspiring view of breathtaking canyons drenched in shadows – and a backdrop of deep blue water and soft wind cooling us off. We spent probably fifteen or twenty minutes at the end of the trail – the cutoff we reluctantly held ourselves to due to the time of day. Regardless, the six of us stood at the end of the trail soaking in the dream-like views. Now, after relaxing a bit, we began the trek back which was a bit challenging and also rewarding because coming from California, this was a day outdoors unlike any person in our group has recently experienced.

We had plenty to discuss as we rode back to Princeville and it’s worth noting there is no road connecting Waimea Canyon and the island’s North Shore. And as you can imagine, the drive back was just as beautiful as the hike through Waimea Canyon!

 

Later that evening, as we were turning in for the night, we realized why people love Kauai so much. We spent the day outdoors and it was beautiful! And after our great hike… we felt ready for a peaceful and much deserved GREAT night of rest. As I faded off to sleep, I remembered the way friends back home described Kauai. “Oh, I can’t wait to go back…” “It was literally AMAZING…”  “I might have to move here!” That’s when I passed out 100% relaxed, eager for a new day of adventure on what was one of the best vacations I ever had.

 

LET YOUR KAUAI ADVENTURE BEGIN! 

What a great story about Kauai! We could say we hear great things like this all the time – because we do! – and still every story our guests tell about Kauai always makes us smile. It is true: we love helping guests create a wonderful vacation for their family and friends, and quick get-a-ways that help you relax and keep your big 2013 plans on track. So now that you see how your vacation can unfold, check out the information on Kauai’s hiking trails (below) PLUS some information about fun events coming in the next few weeks. 
Just think: in a matter of days you can be here, Enjoying the beauty and splendor of Kauai. So take a look out the window… if your view doesn’t look like this, let us help jumpstart your very own Kauai adventure!

  
HIKING TRAILS ON KAUAI

Hawaii-Guide.com has posted on their website a number of tips on Kauai Hiking Trails. Some trails offer short walks while others are more appropriate for advanced hikers. For example, this page offers 11 maps of Kauai hiking trails with varying difficulty. Kokee and Waimea State Park trails are very popular, leading to Waimea Canyon. Another great hike on the East Side of Kauai is Nounou East Trail. According to HawaiiGuide.com, “The Nounou East or Sleeping Giant trail will take you on a journey of 1000ft, but oh the views at the top are grand. You'll be presented with a view of all of the east side of the island and a good look inland as well towards Waialeale. The trail can be hot if you start too late in the day, so try and get an early start. Be careful at the top too, as some of the dropoffs are pretty steep. Enjoy the view though, it's unlike anything else in East Kauai.”  And for folks who just want to have a leisurely walk on Kauai’s East Side, check out the multi-purpose path at Lydgate Park where “the whole family can enjoy a stroll on this paved path good for bikes, skates and slippers.”


UPCOMING EVENT: The 20th Annual Eat Dessert First Scholarship Event

Need a great reason for EATING awesome desserts? The Eat Dessert First event happens on February 8, 2013, sponsored by the Zonta Club of Kauai Foundation. Taste delightful desserts from local restaurants, hotels, local chefs, including a selection of sugar - & gluten-free items. Fruits, vegetables, cheese & cracker platters; plus Kauai Coffee Company and a no-host bar. A portion of the proceeds benefits student scholarships – a very scrumptious way to support the youth on Kauai. $20 in advance and $25 at the door.


Keiki Rodeo Sporting Event in Poipu at CJM Stables

Whooooo-hooooo!!!! This February, Enjoy the Keiki (kid’s) rodeo at CJM Country Stables in Poipu. The fun starts on February 9^th at 9:00 AM and goes to about 4:00. Then, the Waimea Roundup Rodeo happens on February 22 and 23, 2013 at CJM Country Stables, with elimination roping starting on Friday at 10:00 AM. Then on Saturday, February 23, 2013, the fun starts again at 10 AM with Paniolo Grand Entry and the Rodeo starts right after. Food is available and if you love rodeo, come on out because there is plenty of action & events for the entire family!  More info here! 


WAIMEA TOWN CELEBRATION

Come spend 2 days of Small Town Fun at the old Sugar Mill in Waimea. Continuous Live Entertainment on Stage including a Ukulele Concert & Ice Cream Contest; Local Food, Crafts, & Game Booths; Beer Garden; Displays; and loads of sporting events including a canoe race, baseball and basketball tournaments, rodeo and Captain Cook Caper 10, 5, &2k Fun Run.  More information here! 



Special Thanks to: Burke and RonHamProd, MC, Wikipedia, Kauai Festivals.com, Friends on Flickr, and Kauai Vacation Rentals & Real Estate, Inc’s amazing collection of vacation accommodations.

HAU’OLI MAKAHIKI HOU – HAPPY NEW YEAR, FROM KAUAI VACATION RENTALS & REAL ESTATE!

HAU’OLI MAKAHIKI HOU – HAPPY NEW YEAR, FROM KAUAI VACATION RENTALS & REAL ESTATE!

Every year at this time we get very excited. 2012 is coming to a close and in recent weeks, many of us have Enjoyed spending time with family and friends, letting them know how much we appreciate them for the laughs, joy, and love they bring into our lives. Some of us have also Enjoyed spending time reflecting on all we have accomplished this year.  The wonderful surprises … the new opportunities we have taken … and remembering to reward ourselves for a job well done.  And here we are in the final days of 2012. About to enter a new year filled with unlimited possibilities that will unfold all year long. More laughs, more fun, and definitely more time spent on Kauai! 

 

Spending time on Kauai in 2013 is easy – especially with our weekly Wiki Wiki Wednesday specials!  On Facebook and Twitter we share amazing specials for homes, condos, and cottages here on the Garden Island. Our accommodations let you experience the best of Kauai with all the comfort and conveniences of your own rental home! Even though it may now be chilly in many parts of the world, Kauai still has bright sunny days with temperatures perfect for spending time outdoors.  Plus, we have over 200 accommodations throughout the North Shore, East Side, South Shore, and West Side.  That means days of beautiful scenery, sleeping in, and starting 2013 with the things you Enjoy the most! 

 

So grab your hula skirt, Bermuda shorts, sunglasses, and sun block – put them on – and check out this week’s Feature story.  It is all about things you can do on Kauai starting now. When you get to the end, call us! Kauai has some of the world’s best beaches and golf courses and in this new year, Kauai is calling you home! 

 

 SPEND THE DAY ON THE BEACH!

One of the best things about being on Kauai is walking on our breathtaking beaches.  At sunrise, at sunset, and anytime during the day, the sky is beautiful and the beach is a great place to plan all the new things you’ll do in 2013. Lydgate Beach Park on Kauai’s East Side includes a picnic area, a playground area, and a 2-mile bike path. Poipu Beach Park is another popular beach, named “America's Best Beach” by The Travel Channel, and always ranking among the top 10 "best" beaches in the U.S.  Poipu Beach is also great for snorkeling and swimming, features a natural ocean wading pool, and is a great destination for boogie-boarders and surfers. 

 

 

 

WERE YOU JUST THINKING ABOUT NEW YEAR’S EVE DINNERS AND NEW YEAR’S DAY BRUNCH?

This New Year’s, the St. Regis Princeville has 2 New Year’s Eve dinner options. The Kauai Grill features a New Year’s Eve Tasting Menu that includes Toasted Egg Yolk, Caviar and Dill; Tuna Ribbons with Ginger Marinade, Radish and Avocado; Kona Lobster with Meyer Lemon Risotto and Basil; Roasted Wagyu Tenderloin with Quince-Madeira Condiment,  and Broccoli Rabe and Cabrales Foam; and lots of amazing desserts! Our mouths are already watering!

  

Also at the St. Regis, Makana Terrace is serving a New Year’s buffet dinner that includes scrumptious salads, Artisanal cheeses, sushi & seafood, a carving and pasta station; and entrees that include Miso Glazed Hapuupuu, Roasted Big Island Red Pork Loin, Lobster & Scallops Thermomedore, Slow Roasted  Jirdori Chicken Breast, and Vegetable Terrine. WOW!  Want more details? Take a look at Makana Terrace’s New Year’s Dinner Menu here!

 

 

And there’s more!  Everyone who dines at the St. Regis gets to attend the annual New Year’s Eve Venetian Masquerade Ball! Fun people celebrating with a live band and dancing from 10:00 PM 2012 till 1:30 AM 2013! This year’s band is Green Flash with Coppin Colburn and other island musicians performing classic rock and top forty music selections. Sounds like fun!

 

 

FUN AND SUN AT THE 2ND ANNUAL NEW YEAR’S EVE MUSIC FESTIVAL

Kalapaki Joe’s and the Poipu Beach Resort Association are hosting this year’s New Year’s Eve Celebration at Poipu Beach Park on the South Shore. This event is complimentary and open to the public, kicking off at 5:00 PM with live local music, food booths, and a Keiki (children’s) Tent. Then about 9:20 PM, look up and get ready for an amazing fireworks show.

This year’s local bands include Na Hoku Hanohano Award Winning musician, Anuhea, known for her lyrics, acoustic soul, pop, rap and reggae sounds. More performers include Kauai’s Revival and Hawaiian Surf Legend, Titus Kinimaka; and melodic acoustic sounds of Dustin Thomas who recently returned from his West Coast tour to open and close the music festival. What a fun time! Kauai Vacation Rentals Enjoys helping to sponsor this annual event!

Food Booths are set up around the main county pavilion at Poipu Beach Park and include Kalapaki Joe’s, Keoki’s Paradise, Chalupa’s, and Paco’s Tacos. The Keiki Tent, sponsored by the Boys and Girls Club of Kauai, is located next to the beach playground and features Hawaiian games and much more. The tent is also complimentary to the public and donations to the club are always welcomed.
 

THEN IT’S FLASH – BOOM – POW! 

At 9:20 PM when you look up into the nighttime sky, see all the brilliant fireworks light up the night!  That’s your sign that 2013 is just hours away and all the great things you have thought about while on Kauai are about to begin: More laughs, more joy, and more frequent visits to Kauai! For Friends who haven’t experienced the Poipu Beach fireworks show, it’s awesome!  The whole island is excited and we hope to see you there! 

 

 

SOME OF THE BEST MOMENTS OF 2012 – FROM OUR FRIENDS ON FACEBOOK!

The other day we were comparing stories, asking ‘when’ is the best time to visit Kauai?  The answer: every time is the best time! Whether that’s New Year’s, January, February … you get where we’re going! And while we are all celebrating the end of 2012, we want to share some of the wonderful photos our Friends shared with us on our Facebook page.

 

 

 

From Nick: his photo of the North Shore just before sunset!  

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

Deanna shared this photo and comment: “Took this pic while out on the Holo Holo Napali Tour...I now have 6 sea turtles on my leg to represent my grandbabies! Got two more to get :)”

 

 

  

 

And our friend Bill shared this photo and comment:  “The view after bombing one down the middle on the Makai golf course at Princeville. Right around the corner from my Kauai Vacation Rentals oceanfront condo at Pali Ke Kua!”

 

Have you shared your photos with us on Facebook? We just might share them in our Feature story!

 

 

 

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HAU’OLI MAKAHIKI HOU – HAPPY NEW YEAR, FROM KAUAI VACATION RENTALS & REAL ESTATE!

What a great year 2012 is. It is the year we started celebrating 35 years of helping guests create amazing vacations on Kauai! We are also happy to meet so many new Friends on Facebook. We love seeing your photos and reading the comments you post and Tweet. Have an amazing 2013 and thanks for helping make 2012 a wonderful year for us, too.  We look forward to seeing you soon!

 

- Aloha!!!