PACK LIGHTLY, COOL AND CASUAL.  You won't need nylons or neckties. Pants or casual dresses are fine for restaurants.  Don't bother with rain gear.  Any showers are usually short.  You dry off quickly.  The rule of packing for Hawaii is:  “If in doubt, leave it out!”

DO PACK your driver's license, credit/debit card, ATM card, plane tickets, car rental papers, key or key box combination and driving directions to the condo.  Bring your Safeway card, Blockbuster card, and a calling card if you plan to make long distance calls from the condo.  Bring (or buy there) your favorite sunscreen.  (Don't forget the tops of your ears.)  Insect repellent is smart to have for jungle hikes.  Sunglasses and/or a hat are also practical items to pack.  Don't forget your camera!

ON THE PLANE from the West Coast, turn your watch and belly back for the 3 hour time difference, April - October or the 2 hour difference, October - April.  (No daylight savings time in Hawaii.)  You might want to layer your clothing, so you can adjust for the burst of warm humid air that hits you when you arrive in Hawaii.

AT HONOLULU AIRPORT, you'll take the Wikiwiki bus to your inter-island gate.  You might be able to board an earlier flight to Kauai.  There are restrooms, snackbars and shops near the inter-island gates.  If there is an earlier flight than your scheduled flight, chances are your bags will be on that earlier flight too.  So might as well get to Kauai sooner!

THE INTER-ISLAND FLIGHT doesn't have assigned seating, so if you board late, you may not get to sit with your companions.  Seating is 2 across on one side, 3 across on the other. The flight is short, you may have an interesting seat companion.  You'll be thankful for the cold juice the flight attendants serve!  United and Hawaiian Airlines hand out a nifty visitor's map of Kauai. Take it!

AT LIHUE AIRPORT, it doesn't take long to get your luggage (check both carousels and ones lined up on the side) and walk across the driveway to your car rental booth.  If you have a long layover in Honolulu, your bags may beat you to Kauai, so check the bags lined up near the carousel.  After picking up your luggage, walk across to the Car Rental Booths.  You'll be asked to hop on the courtesy shuttle which will take you to the larger office and lot, to pick up your car.

AT THE CAR RENTAL OFFICE, you may not need the insurance they offer.  You are most likely covered by your own car insurance and/or your credit card.  Opt to fill the gas tank before returning the car.  Pick up the free Kauai Drive Magazine.  It has maps, driving tips, coupons and interesting information.  Before you drive off the lot, be sure to check the car over for any damage they may try to pin on you upon return of the car.  Check also for problems such as squeaky brakes, insect infestations, or accessories that don't work.   Avoid the hassle of having to return it later.

DRIVING TO WAILUA BAY VIEW is easy.  Take the Kapule and Kuhio Hwys toward Kapaa.  Go past the Aloha Beach Resort and cross the Wailua River.  (Right lane takes the trestle bridge, left lane takes the main bridge.  Both get you there.)   After crossing the river, you’ll turn right (before the Shell Gas Station) onto Papaloa Rd, right again into the parking lot of Wailua Bay View .

PARK in our private parking lot.  The management asks that you sign in, upon arrival with your license plate number, so that you can be issued a parking permit.  If the office is closed, registration slips are kept outside the office door.

THE HAWAIIAN RESIDENTS have the longest life expectancy in the country...  So adopt their way of life and relax, you're on Hawaiian time now!

HAWAIIAN GEOGRAPHICAL NAMES aren’t hard to pronounce, if you know the vowel sounds of the language:  A = ah,   E = ay,   I = ee,   O = oh,   U = oo.  When two vowels appear together, you pronounce each one separately or blend them together depending on if their is an apostrophe between two vowels, which indicates a glottal stop.

LOCAL RESIDENTS use some Pidgin English and a handful of Hawaiian terms. Local accent is sometimes hard to understand, until you get used to it.  The people of Kauai are extremely nice and it is a rich experience to get to know them.  Respect for Hawaiian culture is obligatory.

TRAFFIC is often dense through Kapaa town and Lihue.  The residents are very nice about yielding to you if you need to get onto the highway.  They expect the same from you.  Smile and wave!

KAUAI is so special, that residents of the other islands often choose it for their vacations and honeymoons.  It has also been the setting for the majority of the movies that are filmed in the islands.  Being the northernmost, it receives the most rainfall, providing the most tropical climate of the Islands.  It’s known as the Garden Isle because of its lushness.  Kauai is the oldest Hawaiian island and was the first to be inhabited by the Polynesians.  They landed at Wailua Bay!  Folklore abounds with tales of the Menehune, Kauai's first inhabitants.

SWIMMING is not always safe at the beaches of Kauai.  Winter surf is treacherous on the north side of the island.  Summer brings calmer water, but still beware of strong undertows.  Some beaches, such as Lumahai, seldom have calm enough water to be safe, even in summer.  Listen to the tide reports and high surf advisories and by all means, pay attention to any shark warnings.  Use your sensibilities at all times and do not swim alone!  Ke’e, Anini, Lydgate, Poipu and Salt Pond parks are beaches that typically offer safe swimming.  Conditions change daily.  A glance out the window tells you if Wailua Bay is safe.

EXPLORING THE ISLAND on your own is much more satisfying than the tour bus circuit.  It’s a lot more fun to find the secluded beaches and special places off the beaten track.  It's not hard to find your way around the island.  There’s a pair of highways that go around the perimeter of the island, as far as you can go each direction from Lihue.  When you travel off the highway, you are either going toward the ocean or toward the mountains.  There are still some hidden pieces of paradise to find.

WEATHER on the island, on any given day, can be wet on one side and dry on the other.  So, if it's rainy on the East/North side, drive over to the South/West side, where it’s typically drier.

THE NORTH SIDE of the island is the greenest side and has many beautiful beaches.  It also tends to rain a bit more on this side, so you might want to check the weather reports to see if heavy rains are forecast before you go.  Don't worry about light intermittent showers.

THE SOUTH AND WEST SIDES are dry and desert-like, except for a few fertile valleys.  A pair of roads go up to Kokee (hiking and viewpoints) where it is much cooler than lower elevations.  If it's raining in Kapaa, try the beaches at Poipu, Mahaulepu Beaches, Salt Pond Beach Park, Kekaha or Polihale, the driest spot on the island.

THE THREE STORY BUILDING has 45 units with 15 units on each floor.  It is a friendly place with some of the owners residing full or part time.  Many of the tenants are return guests.  Its close proximity to the beach and shopping, as well as its convenient location on the island, make it an ideal place to stay while you explore paradise!  Fred, our resident manager, will make you feel at home.

IT IS CUSTOMARY TO REMOVE YOUR SHOES before entering the condo units.  You will notice shoes lined up on the doorsteps.  If your feet are sandy or muddy, you are asked to rinse them off at one of the faucets located at each end of the building and at the pool.

THE POOL is a nice quiet place to get warm or cool off.  Swimmers are asked to rinse off at the pool shower before swimming.  If you like to read at the pool, the women's bathroom has a shelf full of novels for borrowing.  You may also notice the geckos in the foliage - they work here, eating the insects that might otherwise eat you!

TWO GAS BARBECUE GRILLS are located in the pool area for the guests' use. There are clear and easy instructions posted on the grills.  If the grills are already in use, you'll most likely have a friendly invitation to add your food to one.

THE FULLY EQUIPPED KITCHEN in unit #210 has a microwave, ice-maker, toaster, rice cooker, blender, frying pan, coffee pot, dishes, etc.  There is usually a supply of coffee filters, salt, pepper, napkins, dishsoap, etc.   Look around to see what's there before shopping.  Any food you buy should be well sealed or kept in the refrigerator.  You’re in the tropics...  Garbage must be taken out daily to avoid insect problems.  Please help keep our condo pest free.  Thanks!

THE CLOSETS in Unit #210 hold such household amenities as a step stool, a vacuum cleaner, iron and ironing board, a tool kit, cooler, beach towels, a few sundries, a hair dryer and so on.  We also have a twin size futon mattress for tenants wishing alternate sleeping arrangements.

TO KEEP MAINTENANCE COSTS LOW, you can help by turning off the air conditioner, ceiling fans and lights before leaving the unit.  Keeping the lower window louvers closed will reduce the amount of moisture that deteriorates the window sills and metal parts of the furniture.  Frequent cleaning of the lint trap in the dryer is another way to keep costs down.  Thanks!

A TV, VCR, STEREO AND PHONE are there for your convenience.  KVIC, the Kauai Visitor's Information runs an informative video tour continuously.  A few videos, cassettes, CDs, an alarm clock, guidebooks, playing cards, puzzles, games, binoculars, sand chairs, nylon cooler and water toys are some of the items kept at the condo for your use.

WITHIN WALKING DISTANCE from Wailua Bay View are shops, restaurants and a food mart.  Just across the road is the Kinipopo Shopping Village where you can pick up ready made sandwiches, schedule a kayak trip, browse shops.  At the north end of Papaloa Rd, is the bigger Coconut Marketplace with over 70 shops, restaurants, and a theater.

GROCERY SHOPPING in Kapaa is easily found, going north on the highway.  Foodland, Safeway and Big Save are all found mountain side of the highway.  CostULess has low warehouse prices, like a Mini-Costco.  Walmart in Lihue also sells food items.  Star Market at Kukui Grove has good prices.

KE'E BEACH PARK is at the end of the road.  It's as far as you can go by car.  The trail head for the Hanakapiai - Kalalau hike is here.  The beach is good for snorkeling in the summer.  You’ll find rest rooms, showers, etc.   The beach also has a short hike on the left to an ancient hula instruction platform and a heiau. * Heiau meaning a sacred place built for rituals by the Hawaiians.

THE WET CAVES and MANINIHOLO DRY CAVE at Haena are fun to visit.  The dry cave is more accessible to explore.  It was named after a Menehune fisherman.  The cave has been the setting of a few movies.  It's a popular tourist sight and tour bus stop.  The caves are easily found mountainside of the highway across from the nearby parks.  The beach park across from the dry cave is HAENA BEACH and a walk down that beach to the right will take you to TUNNELS BEACH.

LUMAHAI BEACH is beautiful and the most photographed beach in the islands.  The beach is not marked.  Parking is alongside the highway.  There is a short walk down a steep trail to the beach.  Swimming is not safe here!  There have been several drownings.  This is where Mitzi Gaynor “washed that man right out of her hair” in the movie South Pacific.

HANALEI BAY is beautiful.  To get there, turn onto Aku road and then right or left on Weke Rd.  HANALEI VALLEY SCENIC OVERLOOK offers a picturesque view of the taro patches below the highway.

PRINCEVILLE is the resort area here.  You'll drive through the well kept residential/resort area to get to beaches like HIDEAWAYS, SEA LODGE, PU'U POA or hike over lava rock to QUEEN'S BATH.

ANINI BEACH PARK is known for safe swimming.  It's a nice long stretch of beach.  Turn on Kalihiwai Rd - NORTH of the bridge and follow Anini Rd. to the left - keep going to the park.

KALIHIWAI BEACH is a nice big beach for picnics.  To get there, turn on Kalihiwai Rd - SOUTH of the bridge.  Continue until you run into the beach.  (Turning early on the dirt road to the right takes you to SECRET BEACH.)

KILAUEA LIGHT HOUSE and WILDLIFE REFUGE are down Kolo Rd and then Kilauea Rd. It's open weekdays and is free to tour, though a donation is suggested.  Paved foot trails have markers identifying wildlife.

MOLOA'A BEACH is a nice quiet beach with a little lagoon.  It's flanked by hills on one side and a string of houses on the other.  To get there, turn on Koolau Rd., by the abandoned fruit stand and then to the left, down Moloa'a Rd, park at the end of the road and walk through the beach access.  It was the setting for the original pilot for Gilligan's Island.

ALIOMANU BEACH is down Aliomanu Rd, north of Anahola.  A shallow lagoon is carved by the stream meeting the ocean, making fun waterplay for the kids.  Great place to bring Ono Burgers.  Can you see King Kong’s profile in the mountains?  Nearby ANAHOLA BEACH PARK is down a Kukuihale Rd or Anahola Rd.  (Anahola beach adjoins Aliomanu)

KEALIA BEACH is the beautiful beach you see from the highway.  From there you can walk or jog on the abandoned road either north to DONKEY BEACH or south to KAPAA BEACHES.

KAPAA is the biggest town on this side of the island.  Shops and restaurants line the highway.  Recreation and adventure activity/rental shops are prominent in this resort area.  The town also has a library and a couple of parks. Traffic through town is heavy, especially in the late afternoon.  Coming home, the Kapaa Bypass Road avoids the traffic.  It comes back to the Hwy. near the condo.   *Hint:  Turn right onto the Hwy and then left onto Lanikai Rd to return to Wailua Bay View.

SUNSHINE FARMERS MARKET is at the New Town Park on Wednesdays 3:00-5:00.  This is where the local farmers sell their produce out of the back of their trucks.  It's a great way to see some local color and get some exotic fruits and veggies.  (Get there well before 3PM and shop around for the best prices - Bring your own plastic grocery bags and single bills.)

SHOPPING IN KAPAA TOWN is a nice change from mall shopping.  There are many little specialty shops, offering unique items.  It’s fun to walk around in the small town atmosphere, complete with  an ice cream soda shop on the corner!

NIGHT LIFE though not abundant, can be found at some of the hotel and restaurant lounges.  Check the visitor publications.  THE TRADEWINDS BAR at the Marketplace gets lively on the weekends.

THE MARKETPLACE is a resort shopping mall with many small shops,eateries and a movie theater.

KINIPOPO SHOPPING CENTER is on Papaloa Rd.   The Shell Station Mini Mart has kayak rentals.  The Kauai Waterski shop can set you up too.

EAST SLEEPING GIANT TRAIL is found up Haleilio Rd.  (The road across from the Shell Gas Station)

HOLOHOLOKU HEIAU, OPAEKAA FALLS LOOKOUT  and SLEEPING GIANT HIKE (Kuamoo-Nounou) can be found up Hwy. 580 (Kuamoo Rd) between the Wailua River and Coco Palms.  At the end of 580 is the KUILAU TRAIL and the KEAHUA ARBORETUM.

WAILUA RIVER BOAT TOURS depart from the Marina on the south side of the river.  The tours are about $15.00.  The Smith Motor Boat and Waialeale Tour Company both cater to the tourists with live entertainment, and are very informative.

SMITH'S TROPICAL PARADISE puts on a luau - dinner show.  The memorable show is full of Polynesian culture.  You can tour the grounds while you wait for dinner.  Cost is $58 per person with free all-you-can-drink free cocktails with dinner.  ($15 or so for just the show.)  Highly recommended!  Tickets may be purchased at the Marina in conjunction with the boat tour or separately.  821-6895

LYDGATE PARK is below the Aloha Beach Resort.  Enter their driveway and veer to the right, turning left at Nalu Rd.  The beach is a popular family place with very safe swimming and snorkeling, due to a man-made rock reef.  It gets crowded on weekends and holidays with local families.  From Lydgate, you can walk south on the beach for miles, enjoy the new paved walking trail near Kamalani Playground and Children's Bridge, past the Wailua Golf Course and all the way past the Raddison Hotel and Kauai Beach Resort.  One of the best beach walks on the island!

LIHUE is the main business center of the island.  Unless you have business in town, you can bypass it with Kapule Hwy.

KUHIO HIGHWAY takes you through Hanamaulu, Kapaia and into Lihue.  Unless you are going to Kapaia Sticthery, Wailua Falls or Hanamaulu town, you'll find driving easier using the KAPULE HIGHWAY.

WAILUA FALLS is 4 miles up Maalo Rd, which begins in Kapaia.  There is only the one view of the falls, unless you see it by helicopter, as featured in the old TV show Fantasy Island.  Hiking to the top of the falls is no longer permitted for safety reasons.  Hiking to the pool at the bottom is beautiful but not always possible, due to slippery trails.   The trail head is found off Maalo Rd.

THE AIRPORT is off Ahukini Rd, reached by either the Kapule Hwy (preferred) or Kuhio Hwy.

HILO HATTIE  has aloha wear, T-shirts, souvenirs and gifts.  You are greeted with a shell lei and offered Kona coffee or juice to sample while you shop. They offer free transportation to the store from hotels in Poipu or Kapaa.  245-3404.  Located at 3252 Kuhio Hwy., it's at the intersection of  Ahukini Rd (Rt. 57) which you can reach by turning mauka from Kapule Hwy.

WALMART and WILCOX MEMORIAL HOSPITAL are located on Kuhio Hwy, but easily reached by taking the Kapule Hwy and turning right on Ahukini, right again onto Kuhio Hwy.  WALMART has everything you forgot to bring and even has souvenirs and groceries!

THE KAUAI MUSEUM, THE STATE OFFICE BLDG and THE VISITOR'S BUREAU are all in close proximity off Rice Street in Lihue.  The Department of Land and Natural Resources, in the State Office Building can provide you with hiking trail maps and permits.  The Kauai Museum has a gift shop and admission is free on the first Saturday of the month, otherwise it's $5.00.

KALAPAKI BEACH  is down Kapule Hwy. (51)  You can park between the MARRIOTT and the Anchor Cove Shopping Center. The beach is beautiful and a walk on the Promenade is very enjoyable.  There is a slightly hard to find, but enjoyable leisure walk around the between the hotel and Kauai Lagoons up to the old BrewPub and back.  DUKE'S BAREFOOT BAR, THE KALAPAKI BEACH HUT, JJ'S BROILER are all good places to grab a quick lunch with a great view.  Our favorite inexpensive luxury is a caesar salad and ice tea lunch at Duke's for under $5!  If you're feeling adventurous, you can try a buffalo burger at the Kalapaki Beach Hut which serves Tasty Burgers and sandwiches.  Eat up on top - what a view!

ALEKOKO (MENEHUNE) FISHPOND LOOKOUT is on Hulemanu Rd.  (Follow signs off Nawiliwili Rd just up from the Marriott or way down the hill from Kukui Grove Shopping Mall)  It's a turnout in the road, showing the same scene you see on post cards.  It's pretty and fun to imagine the Menehunes working so hard to build it all in one night!  The area is now a wildlife refuge. KILOHANA (GAYLORD'S) and KAUAI COMMUNITY COLLEGE are on Kaumualii Hwy,  south of Lihue.

KUKUI GROVE SHOPPING CENTER at Puhi is the biggest shopping mall on the island. There is a SEARS, MACY'S, K-MART and BORDERS BOOKS & MUSIC which has extensive Hawaiian books and music departments!

EUCALYPTUS AVENUE or the Tunnel of Trees (Maluhia Rd) is enjoyable on your drive to Poipu.

SUNSHINE FARMERS MARKET is at the Koloa Ball Field on Mondays at noon.

POIPU BEACH PARK is a bit windy, but a pleasant popular family beach, with safe swimming.

HYATT REGENCY HOTEL and the SHERATON are the fancy hotels at Poipu.

MALHAULEPU BEACHES are past the Hyatt via a dirt road.  Absolutely beautiful beach walks!

BRENNECKE BEACH was once known for good body surfing.  Surf changed after Hurricane Iniki.

BRENNECKE'S BEACH BROILER , BEACH HOUSE RESTAURANT and/or KEOKI'S PARADISE for a beautiful, tropical, romantic dinner must.  The atmosphere is delightful and the food delicious.

BEACH HOUSE BEACH on Lawai Rd. is a very popular (and crowded) snorkeling beach.

SPOUTING HORN is on Lawai Rd.  It's the big tourist attraction of the area, with independent venders selling their crafts to make a living.  Sign a leaf on one of the autograph trees!

PACIFIC TROPICAL BOTANICAL GARDENS at Lawai has an informative tour for people who are interested in the plants of the tropics.  It's on the beautiful Allerton Estate and is an educational way to spend a few hours.  New entrance is across from Spouting Horn.   332-7361

KUKUI’O’LONO GOLF COURSE - PARK at Kalaheo is beautiful.  The course is the cheapest on the island.  The park is small but has a pretty Japanese garden.  From the Hwy., take Papalina Rd toward the ocean, then on to Puu Rd and follow the signs.

PORT ALLEN is where some of the boat tours depart.  We like the HOLOHOLO BAREFOOT CRUISES for their smooth ride, but there is also Captain Andy's and other's.  Port Allen also has a small airport, from which some helicopter tours depart.

SALT POND BEACH PARK at Hanapepe is down Lele Rd.  Follow the signs to the beach or to see the ancient salt ponds.  This park is a favorite with local families.  It is a nice beach with safe swimming, showers and restrooms.  The picnic shelters offer some shade on hot days.

WAIMEA CANYON LOOKOUTS, KOKEE STATE PARK and KALALAU LOOKOUT are all spectacular.  This area has many hiking opportunities.  It gets chilly up there - bring a sweatshirt.  You can go up Kokee Rd and then down Waimea Canyon Rd, for a difference in scenery.

KEKAHA BEACH stretches for 15 miles on this side of the island.  The beach parallels the Hwy. Park on the side of the highway and sun yourself or walk for miles.  (This is not a safe swimming beach.)

POLIHALE STATE PARK is past the end of the Hwy. Follow signs.  Polihale is nearly always sunny and dry, but unsafe for swimming, due to the undertow.

SPORTS EQUIPMENT can be rented at many places on the island.  Some of these places also offer lessons and snorkel cruises, for about $65 per person, including equipment.  They also offer scuba lessons and trips to see sea turtles, shipwrecks, etc.  Visitor publications and tour books can direct you companies that offer what you want.  Besides selling water sports equipment, some will set you up with directions for self-guided adventures, most offer the more expensive guided trips.

THE SHELL STATION across from the condo is a convenient place to arrange a kayak rental for the Wailua River.  They set you up with everything you need including maps.  The boats are already at the river.

KAUAI WATER SKI AND KAUAI SURF CO. is the main water sport shop.  Water skiing on the Wailua River can be arranged including boat, driver, gas, skis, equipment and lessons. They also rent kayaks for use on the Wailua River.  The rent/sell snorkel, scuba and surfing gear.  At Kinipopo, just across the road from the condo. (Highway side) 822-3574

KAYAK TRIPS can be arranged through dozens of companies, many of which advertise with brochures at the tourist kiosks all over the island.  Pick one that sounds good and just do it!  There are 4 popular rivers for Kayaking:  Wailua, Huleia, Kalihiwai, Hanalei.

SNUBA TOURS OF KAUAI offers one hour experiences near Beach House Beach.  823-8912

ANINI BEACH is not crowded on weekdays.  The water depth ranges from 3 -15 feet.  This is a good safe place for snorkeling.  You can take Windsurfing lessons there, too.  Turn onto Kalihiwai Rd, north of the bridge, then follow Anini Rd to the park.  Plenty of parking.

TUNNELS REEF has lava tubes for experienced snorkelers and shallow water above the reef for beginners.  Water depth ranges from 3 feet to a drop-off of 40 feet.  It's easiest to park at Haena State Park and walk down the beach to the right.

KE'E BEACH has a water depth of 3-15 feet.  It's at the end of the road at Haena.  Beautiful!

LYDGATE PARK is crowded on weekends.  It has extremely calm water due to the rock reef, which also provides for some interesting snorkeling.  There is a large grassy play area and play structure.  Informative signs are posted near the Petroglyphs.

BEACH HOUSE BEACH  and KOLOA LANDING, both close to Poipu are very popular.

There are many other beaches noted for great snorkeling, but I hesitate to list the less safe ones here.

WALKING/RUNNING SHOES or HIKING SANDALS are all that are needed for most of the hiking on Kauai.  The exceptions are the hikes all the way into Kalalau and into the Alakai Swamp.

TRAIL HEADS are popular places for thieves to hang out.  They will damage your car doors and trunk, breaking into it. Don't leave anything valuable in your car!  If you must hide something in your trunk, do it before you arrive at the trailhead.  Thieves may be watching you.

BRING ALONG something to eat and drink on your hike.  It’s easy to stay too long at your destination, making it a longer trip than planned.  A partially frozen water bottle or two for each hiker works great.

HANAKAPIAI is the most popular summertime hike on Kauai and rightfully so.  If you only go on one hike, make it to Hanakapiai Beach.  The trail starts from the parking lot of Ke'e Beach.  The hike to the beach takes less than 1 1/2 hours,  You'll want to enjoy the beach and explore lava tube tunnels.  From there, you might want to take the more difficult hike up to Hanakapiai Falls, which takes about 1 3/4 hours going up.  Don't be surprised if there's some nudity in this area.  It used to be popular for people to shed their clothes, once they got into the Na Pali area.  People seem to be getting a little more modest in recent years.  Summer is best for this hike, due to high winter surf at Hanakapiai beach, not to mention wet slippery trails after a North Shore rain.

WAIMEA CANYON and KOKEE STATE PARKS have many hiking trails.  The Cliff Trail, which is  a 0.1 mile walk off Halemanu Road to a canyon lookout and Canyon Trail at 1.7 miles, which takes off from the Cliff  Trail and takes you to a lookout offering good views all the way to the ocean.  The Awaawapuhi Trail is 3.25 miles and begins on Hwy. 550 one mile north of  the Campgrounds.  Panoramic views are to be seen at the end of the hike.  You are asked to check in at the Ranger Station to register and to make sure the roads are open where you want to hike.  The Ranger Station can also provide you with current maps of trails up there. It tends to be cool up at Kokee most of the year, so take along some pants and a sweatshirt.

SLEEPING GIANT has three connecting trails.  1) The easy Kuamoo-Nounou Trail off Kuamoo Rd. (580) takes you up to a nice picnic shelter offering a view of the interior.  2)  The moderate Westside Trail that begins on off Kaumalu Rd (581) behind telephone pole #11.  3)  The steep Eastside Trail off Haleilio Rd that climbs the east side of the Giant  to the Alii Picnic Shelter, with spectacular views of the coastline.  You could have someone drop you off on one side and pick you up at another side - or two couples could split up, shuttle the car from one side to the other, meet at the Alii Shelter (hand over the car keys) and complete the hike, shuttling the car back.

KEAHUA  ARBORETUM  is also up Hwy. 580.  The Kuilau Trail begins 200 yards before the entrance to the arboretum.  It climbs 2.5 miles for gorgeous mountain views and waterfalls.  Even just the one mile walk to the picnic shelter is nice.  The Powerline Trail begins just past the entrance to the arboretum.  This long wide trail connects Kapaa to Hanalei.

Besides the walking paths connecting the resorts near the Marketplace, there are many scenic places to take your daily walk or run.  A favorite of ours is the old bumpy road that follows the coast between Kapaa Beach and Kealia and on to Donkey Beach  We also love the strolling trails around the Marriott.  Lydgate Park has a new paved path.

KUKUI O LONO PLANTATION GOLF COURSE in Kalaheo is a 9 hole course, with a $6 greens fee and a $5 cart fee.  It's never crowded.  335-9940

WAILUA  MUNICIPAL GOLF COURSE is south of Wailua and offers 18 holes for $25 ($35 on weekends) with an additional cart fee.  241-6666

KIAHUNA PLANTATION GOLF COURSE at Poipu is the newest on the island, with 18 holes for $53, cart included.  742-9595

POIPU BAY RESORT GOLF CLUB  has a fee with cart of $125.  742-8711 or 1-800-858-6300.

PRINCEVILLE MAKAI GOLF COURSE offers 3 courses; Ocean, Lake and Woods, with 9 holes each.  The fee is $110 for any of the courses, including cart.  PRINCEVILLE PRINCE COURSE has a green fee of $145 with cart.  826-3580

KAUAI LAGOONS COURSE has a new 18 hole course designed by Jack Nicklaus.  Guests get a special price, but non-guests pay $145 for the LAGOONS COURSE.  The KIELE COURSE has a $100 fee.  Reservations are required.  241-6000 or 1-800-634-6400

* Note - Fees may be subject to change.  Call the courses for current rates and other information.

WAILUA PARK  is a County Park and has 4 lighted courts.  KAPAA has a new County Park with 2 lighted courts.  Find it off the by-pass road.

KAPAA has a neighborhood park with basketball hoops and tennis courts as well as a childrens playgound.  It can be found taking Haleilio Rd and turning left at Lanakila Street.

These are just a few in the Wailua area.  Call 241-6660 for more info on free County courts.

PRINCEVILLE RANCH STABLES in Princeville has a Waterfall Adventure which takes you to a picnic/swimming spot.  For information, call them at 826-6777

CJM STABLES in Poipu offers 2 types of rides.  They are located past the Hyatt.  742-6096

ESPRIT DE CORPS in Kapaa - We no longer support this company.

MOUNTAIN BIKES can be rented at many outfitters.  A bike will run you about $20 per day or $100 per week, which includes a helmet, lock and car rack and offer advice on where to ride.  Powerline Trail is popular.  Some outfitters offer downhill rides with courtesy transportation up the hill first.

HELICOPTER TOURS are offered by many companies.  Jack Harter, Ohana and Papillon are three of the companies.  There are many more, some with specials that run in visitor publications.

Stop by the office or an activity kiosk to pick up brochures from the many visitor publication for more adventures like hang gliding, treasure hunting, parasailing, windsurfing, surfing lessons...  Or check out my Kauai Activity list online.
 

*  Kapaa New Town Park can be found by taking the Kapaa Bypass Road.  Sunshine Markets are not to be confused with the touristy Sunnyside Market on the Hwy.

It’s hard to beat eating stir fry, spaghetti or BBQ on the lanai, overlooking the bay.  If you prefer to bring food in or dine out, here are a few of our favorite local restaurants.  For more info check out our Kauai Dining page.

 Take out:
   KCL Barbecue in Kapaa (call ahead and drive up to pick it up)
   Aloah Kauai Pizza at Coconut Marketplace.  (use coupon in Entertainment Book.)
   Ono Charburgers in Anahola (short hours - only open till 6:00)

 Eat out:
   Duke’s Barefoot Bar  (Beachfront at the Marriott - for lunch or dinner)
   Keoki’s at the Kiahuna Shopping Center - Poipu (for a romantic dinner)
   The Bull Shed - Kapaa at Mokihana (a popular steak house)
   Brennecke’s at Poipu (dinner with a beautiful view)  Use coupon in Entertainment Book.
   Barbecue Inn - Lihue - a longtime family favorite  (Excellent food and tasty pies)
   The Roadrunner Cafe - Kilauea - Mexican food (Try their sopes -mmmm)
   Wahoo's - Kapaa (Used to be Margarita's, then Fish Bowls, now Wahoo!)
   Gaylord’s - Between Lihue and Puhi (Very nice for lunch or dinner.  We like lunch there.)
   The Shack - Just north of Kapaa (Casual upscale hamburger joint/sports bar)
   Wailua Family Restaurant - across the Hwy (You can make a meal out of the salad bar.)
   Kintaro Restaurant - Kinipopo Shopping Village (Excellent Japanese Food)
   Coco Caffe - Right across the Hwy serves an eclectic menu of soups, salads and pastas.
   Shrimp Station - Waimea - for all things shrimp - hits the spot after viewing the Waimea Canyon.

It is a fact that it does rain in Hawaii.  Hopefully, it won’t rain during your vacation.  If it does rain while you’re on Kauai though, don’t fret.  There are things to do:

*BEACHES:
Poipu is typically sunny, when the northeast coast is rainy.  It’s a popular place, especially on the weekends.  Try the Mahaulepu Beaches for some beautiful scenery and less crowd.

Salt Ponds Beach Park also is typically dry. It also is popular with the locals on weekends.

Kekaha is long, usually deserted beach you will likely find sunny.

Polihale of course, is the driest beach on the island, however it is also the farthest drive.

* The exception to this is when Kauai is experiencing Kona winds, which means the winds are coming from the south, rather than the usual north.

SHOPPING:
Kukui Grove can take up a day.  It is the largest mall on the island.  Macy's is like a Hawaiian Bon Marche. There is a large Borders Books and Music where you could spend hours picking out Hawaiian books music to take home.  Many unique shops for souvenirs, many made on Kauai.

Walmart  sells everything from swimsuits to souvenirs cheaper than anywhere else.  You can even get your grocery items for less than the local supermarkets.  If you’re looking to bring home goodies made on Kauai, check Walmart’s huge selection.  Need beach mats or rubber slippers?

Hilo Hattie is a tourist’s haven for Aloha wear, T-shirts, videos, etc.  You pay a little more for some of the stuff, but it’s all here!  You’re even greeted with a shell lei and some Lion’s Coffee.

Ching Young Village in Hanalei, Kauai Product's Fair north of Kapaa, Kauai Shopping Village, Spouting Horn Craft Fair, Kiahuna Shopping Village, Koloa Town and Hanapepe Art Shops offer unique shopping experiences.

AMUSEMENT:
Filmed on Kauai Videos like Six Days Seven Nights can be rented at any of the video rental stores on the island.  Bring your Blockbuster video card from home!  (Located by Foodland)

Movie Theatres at Waimea, Kukui Grove, Marketplace and Kilauea offer a selection of movies.

Bowling Alleys, Museums, Libraries, are good places to get close to the local culture.  The Lihue Museum shows an educational video about Kauai’s Geography.  Culture at the Bowling Alley?  Well it's a good way to pick up pidgen.

Hotel Lobbies are fun to walk around, have a drink and check out their activities.  The fancier, the better!  You can have your picture taken with a parrot at the Hyatt in Poipu.

Lomi Lomi Massage and fitness workouts are available at spas.  Check around for special deals.
 
 

If you are staying at Wailua Bay View and would like to print a copy of this for yourself, following these guidelines will give you the best results:

The previous pages are geared to fit perfectly on 12 pages from my computer.  If you are using another set-up, you may need to adjust your margins.  You may also wish to remove any doc URL, title, date and page number your browser may offer to print.  From this page in Netscape:

1. Click File, Print Preview, to see if the main body fits on 12 pages, this being the 13th page.
2. Click File, Page Set up, to adjust margins if necessary and uncheck header and footer boxes.
3. Check it in Print Preview again and you are ready to print.

Placing the copies back to back in Avery sheet protectors and binding them in a clear front Avery Flex-lock Report Cover works well to protect the booklet from wind and salt spray.

For those adventurist types out there, you may want to print off my beach list and tuck it in behind the guide pages.  It has a lot of beaches that are way off the beaten path.

Since I usually only update this information after my own trips to Kauai, feel free to send me a correction, if any of the information becomes outdated.  Thanks!   Julie Wirtz  wirtz@gte.net
 
 

Home Page

Condo Tour

Car Rental

Kauai Dining

Kauai Beaches

Kauai Links