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KAUA‘I TRAVELER

U KA A’I TRAVELER

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LOCAL VIBE SPA + STYLE THE BEST BEACHES EPIC ADVENTURES FOOD + DRINK WHAT WE LOVE NOW

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46 PLANT PRESCRIPTIONS Healing the Hawaiian Way

62 NORTH SHORE The Majestic and Magical Wonder of Nature

56 ART GATHERINGS Artists, Food & Fun Around Kaua‘i

74 SOUTH SHORE The Sun-Drenched Coast from Po‘ipū to Polihale Beach 103 EAST SIDE The Royal Coconut Coast

60 ART IN NATURE Experience the Award-Winning LEGO® Exhibition at McBryde Garden 80 WHAT WE LOVE NOW Trending Culinary Experiences on Kaua‘i 87 RAINBOW OF THE SEA The Beauty of Mahimahi from Sea to Plate

8 LOCAL VIBE This 'n That Hawai‘i style

90 THE HOT SPOT The Dolphin Restaurant

20 LOCAL RAVES & FAVES My Kaua‘i

92 CULINARY Q&A Chef Guy Higa

22 WHY DON'T YOU Add These to Your Itinerary

94 SIPPIN' SUNSHINE Refreshing, Approachable Summer Wines

32 FAR OUT Idyllic Destinations in Remote Places

96 SWEET PARADISE Divine Chocolate Made in Kaua‘i

42 GUARDIAN OF THE REEFS Marine Biologist Terry Lilley's Quest

100 NAMASTE WITH ALOHA Yoga Around the Garden Isle

PHOTO COURTESY: MARISA ESTIVIL

CONTENTS

26 WELCOME TO KAUA‘I Paradise Found

KAUA‘I TRAVELER

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CONTENTS

U KA A’I TRAVELER

THE LIFE & STYLE OF KAUA‘I

Publisher

Kevin Geiger

Editor in Chief Mun Sok Geiger

Contributors

Coco Zingaro Krystal Kakimoto Judy Tsuei Alisha Gopal Chauhan Christine Coté Daniel Lane

Copy Editor Joseph Kwak

Cover Image Tor Johnson

myhawaiitraveler.com www.traveler.media Traveler Media

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Reproduction in whole or in part without permission from the publisher is prohibited. Traveler Media makes every effort to ensure the accuracy of the information supplied in this publication. However, due to unavoidable circumstance of change, whether from the forces of nature or manmade, the information is not guaranteed. Traveler Media is not responsible or liable in any way for any loss or damage incurred resulting from the information supplied in any and all forms of media or communications.

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KAUA‘I TRAVELER

ALOHA

EDITOR'S NOTE

“Climb the mountains and get their good tidings. Nature’s peace will flow into you as sunshine flows into trees. The winds will blow their own freshness into you and the storms their energy, while cares will drop off like autumn leaves.” - John Muir

o matter how many times I’ve seen Waimea Canyon, I’m always blown away by its sheer beauty and size. It’s astonishing that a place like this could exist on a small island in the remote Pacific. My husband and I have hiked many of the trails, but there are still so many more we have yet to complete. One of my favorite memories is a day we spent exploring the wilderness and rewarded our efforts with a picnic at an incredible vantage point overlooking the grand canyon. Our legs were burning and wobbling, and we were dusted with red dirt, but the food and view couldn’t have been better—so worth it. Kauaÿi is full of Mother Nature’s masterpieces from Waimea Canyon and Polihale to Näpali and Kalalau Valley (Far Out, p. 32). There are so many amazing adventures to experience here. If you like to hike, you hit the jackpot. Summer is the best season to take on the famed Kalalau Trail and all its tucked away gems like Hanakäpiÿai Falls. You can easily get lost in the verdant valleys so make sure 6

you have a trail map, and stay on the trail. Be mindful of dangerous and difficult terrain; especially beware of the cliffs’ edges as they can quickly sneak up on you. Check weather conditions and make sure you are properly equipped—and remember, pack out what you pack in. We were not the first to think the spot we chose for our Waimea picnic was epic, as evidenced by the trash left from previous adventurers. It’s so mindboggling when you find trash in what should be a pristine location since the people leaving rubbish clearly appreciate nature’s gifts. Please do your part to keep Kauaÿi beautiful. Follow the nature enthusiasts’ maxim, “Leave only footprints and take only memories.” Many happy returns, Mun Sok Geiger munsok@traveler.media Editor in Chief KAUA‘I TRAVELER

THE DUCK’S NUTS! A colloquial but most compelling way to describe the world’s sexiest, most forgiving golf clubs that launch higher, go further, feel softer and have a sweet spot the size of Texas. We’re PXG. We make the finest golf equipment money can buy. WARNING: Our clubs are amazing but expensive! PXG clubs feature patented technology (58 patents awarded), are made with the finest alloys and materials and manufactured using a costly, sophisticated process only we would use. Schedule a fitting. Call 1-844-PLAY-PXG or visit PXG.COM.

Nobody makes golf clubs like we do. Period. PXG clubs are available at high-end custom fitters and select golf clubs. PXG clubs are played on tour by Zach Johnson, Billy Horschel, Chris Kirk, Ryan Moore, James Hahn, Charles Howell III, Rocco Mediate, Cristie Kerr, Gerina Piller, Alison Lee, Beatriz Recari and Sadena Parks.

A L L O R N OT H I N G LUXU RY

At the Lodge at Kukui‘ula, you’ll sit on the lanai of your big, beautiful cottage or villa contemplating Kaua‘i’s endless beauty with just one thing on your mind: will today be the day you hike to the top of Kalalau, surf a new break, eat the best ahi in the world, golf on our Weiskopf course? Or will today be the day you do absolutely none of those things, and simply sit on your lanai contemplating Kaua‘i’s endless beauty? All or nothing luxury. Stay with us and choose for yourself.

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LOCAL VIBE

ICE, ICE BABY

A refreshing, local tropical treat that looks like a snow cone but is so much better. Authentic shave ice is made from the shavings of an ice block with a razor-sharp blade, which gives it the fluffy snow-like texture. The snow cone gets its icy texture from the crushed ice and the syrup usually runs to the bottom of the cone. Shave ice found in Hawaiÿi is super fine and the tropical flavors get absorbed into the ice instead of settling in the bottom. Try it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream in the bottom or with mochi or even azuki beans or haupia (coconut) and fresh local fruit, the flavor combinations are endless—and delicious. With a rainbow of flavors to choose from, you may want to try a different one everyday at a different location.

HOW TO EAT A DRAGON The pitahaya is a fantastically weirdlooking fruit definitely worth tasting. Commonly known as the dragon fruit, these scaly orbs grow from a cactus species found originally in South and Central America. There are many dragon fruit varieties with the hot pink and green variety being the most common, but the yellow pitaya is known as the sweetest of them all. The seedy white flesh inside reminds you a bit of a kiwi, but tastes a little like a pear with a tropical twist. Find them at farmers markets and fruit stands between the months of May and December, and check fruit ripeness by feeling for spines on the ends of the strange knobs that cover the soft yellow skin. When the fruit is ripe, the spines fall off and it’s time to enjoy. Cut the fruit in half and scoop out the juicy insides with a spoon.

RED, WHITE & BLUE

Ka Hae Hawai‘i (Flag of Hawai‘i) is the only state flag in the United States to have flown under various forms of government and the only one to feature the Union Jack, the flag of the United Kingdom. The eight horizontal stripes represent the eight main islands. There are many accounts of the birth of the Hawaiian flag. One account is that the hybrid of the United States flag and the Union flag was commissioned by Kamehameha in 1816 to represent the Kingdom of Hawai‘i and to avoid international conflict between the Americans and the British. The original flag had seven stripes and was changed to eight stripes officially in 1845. United Kingdom and France were the first two nations to recognize Ka Hae Hawai‘i for official international use followed by the United States and Japan. Hawaiian Flag Day was first proclaimed in 1990 on July 31st and has been celebrated every year since. KAUA‘I TRAVELER

ANARA SPA FIND YOUR OWN PARADISE Feel all tension melt away with a soothing facial or massage in treatment rooms that open to their own private garden. Here traditional healing customs blend with fresh island botanicals to refresh and renew. Weekly and monthly passes available for fitness center and yoga and fitness classes. Full service hair and nail salon. Boutique features comfortable island-wear for every occasion from working out to a night out. For a Hawaiian spa experience like no other, call 808 240 6440 or visit anaraspa.com. gra nd hyatt kaua‘i resort & s pa | 157 1 P O I PU ROA D | KOLOA , H I 96756

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KAUA‘I TRAVELER 12

LOCAL VIBE

HELLO, WHITE EYES Lively and incredibly stunning, the Japanese white-eye (Zosterops japonicus) is a small passerine bird that is native to Asia. Known as mejiro or “white-eye” in Japanese, the arboreal bird was introduced to many regions around the world as a means to control pestering agricultural insects. In 1929, the species was brought to Hawai‘i for that very reason and their population has since grown exponentially, inhabiting all of the Hawaiian Islands and becoming one of the most prolific bird species in Hawai‘i. Japanese White-eyes can easily be spotted by their olive green color with wisps of gray on their head, back, and upper tail, yellowish crown and throat, green torso and black to brown colored feet, legs, and bill. Most notable is the white colored ring around their eyes, hence the moniker. 14

A very agile and gregarious species, the Japanese white-eye form flocks with other bird species; however, it is believed that their dominating population has become detrimental to native Hawaiian bird groups, those like the honeycreepers. Their populace creates competition for food, which may be a major cause for the native species’ demise. On the contrary, the birds are also believed to help facilitate the preservation of native plants by acting as a major pollinator for foliage like the ‘ie‘ie vine (Freycinetia arborea), which once depended on Hawaiian bird species that have since gone extinct. Studies are still being conducted to determine the exact impact of the Japanese white-eyes with native bird and plant species. Whether invasive or valuable to our native ecology, the Japanese white-eye is a charming creature that will be sure to capture your admiration.

KAUA‘I TRAVELER

LOCAL VIBE

PUFFED UP

Although the pufferfish, or blowfish, swims very slow making them easy targets for predators, they are also highly maneuverable and have unique defense mechanisms. Puffers can fill their extremely elastic stomachs up with water and inflate themselves into a spherical shape to appear larger to the stalking predator, giving the puffers a chance to retreat to safety. Tetraodontidae is the scientific name, which refers to the four large teeth fused into the upper and lower plate used for crushing crustaceans and mollusks. In Japan, sashimi fugu (raw puffer meat) prepared only by 16

specially licensed chefs is a celebrated delicacy and sought out for the effects of light-headedness, tingling and numbness of tongue and lips from the minute amount of tetrodotoxin intentionally left by the chef. Strict laws in Japan and other countries only allow chefs who have passed rigorous training to deal with the fish served in restaurants since it takes deft skills to carefully remove the toxic parts and to avoid contaminating the meat. While puffer poisoning can be deadly to humans, the neurotoxins can be tolerated by other animals such as tiger sharks and lizardfish. KAUAâ&#x20AC;&#x2DC;I TRAVELER

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This does not constitute an offer to sell nor the solicitation of an offer to purchase made in any jurisdiction nor made to residents of any jurisdiction, including New York, where registration is required. Tower Kauai Lagoons 9B LLC uses the Timbers Resort ®, Timbers Collection ® and certain other Timbers brand names under a limited non-transferrable license in connection with the sales and marketing of the Hokuala Kauai – A Timbers Resort and the Timbers Kauai – Ocean Club & Residences (the “Project”). If this license is terminated or expires without renewal, the Project will no longer be identiﬁed with nor have any right to use the Timbers ® marks and names. All rights reserved.

On one of the most celebrated sites on Kaua‘i is Hawaii’s newest oceanfront resort. A panorama of ocean, shoreline and verdant mountains, Hōkūala – A Timbers Resort is a perfect place to make your home in paradise. Set dramatically on 450 acres, with Jack Nicklaus Signature golf and what will be Hawaii’s most spectacular collection of oceanfront residences and amenities, Hōkūala connects us to the tropical wonder of this ancient isle. Whether your choice is whole ownership or a deeded residence club interest, the debut offering, Timbers Kaua‘i – Ocean Club & Residences is your opportunity to discover paradise, perfected. 808.720.6688 | 800.269.2364 | www.hokualakauai.com/traveler

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LOCAL VIBE

LOCAL LINGO

Some call them thongs, sandals, or flip-flops. In Hawai‘i they are strictly known as slippers, slippahs, or rubbah slippahs (rubber slippers)—the footwear of choice for many locals. In fact, the most popular local slipper brand is adequately named Locals. Though not originally from Hawai‘i, slippers have become so synonymous with Hawaiian culture that Brazilians refer to them as sandálias havaianas (Hawaiian sandals), while residents of India and Pakistan call them Hawaiÿi chappal (chappal being Hindi/Urdu for “slippers”). When visiting the islands, be mindful that it is customary to take off your footwear before entering someone’s home. For locals, it’s as natural as blinking or breathing, but for the unaccustomed, you will regularly see signs hung above doors as a reminder, “Mahalo for removing your slippahs.” The tradition came to Hawai‘i from Japan during the plantation days and was quickly adopted, meant as a sign of respect to the host and as a means for keeping the floors clean. Just be sure you no take mo’ bettah slippahs when you leave.

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LOCAL VIBE

MY KAUA‘I NAME | TATIANA WESTON-WEBB OCCUPATION | PROFESSIONAL SURFER HOW LONG YOU HAVE LIVED IN HAWAI‘I | 19 YEARS

Favorite beach: Hanalei. It has the most memorable sunset next to the pier, and it’s just a perfect place for holidays or family BBQs. Favorite food: My favorite food is sushi! It’s one food that I don’t eat so often, but when I do I spoil myself! Favorite pastime/activity: I love reading and hiking. Hiking always reminds me how small I am in such a big world. It’s nice to be humbled by nature. Favorite snorkel spot: Definitely Tunnels Beach. I love it there because I occasionally find shells and I always see tons of turtles. Favorite hike: Hanakäpïÿai Trail on the Näpali Coast. It’s the most breathtaking hike I’ve ever seen. Favorite custom/tradition: I love potlucks—when it’s a certain holiday, or a celebratory get-together, and everyone brings their own “special dish” to share with everyone. Favorite hangout: My favorite hangout is overlooking Hanalei Bay at a bluff in Princeville. Favorite Hawaiian product: My favorite Hawaiian product has to be poke (cubed fish, usually raw in a flavorful marinade). It’s the best in Hawaiÿi. Favorite Hawaiian band/CD: My favorite Hawaiian CD is Kepa Kruse; he has soft and mellow tunes that go along with great days at the beach. Favorite place to take your guests: I love taking my guests to anywhere in Hanalei. It’s such a historical and cute town that not even one person I’ve brought there said they didn’t like it. Favorite place to catch the sunset/sunrise: My favorite place to catch the sunrise has to be from ÿAnini Beach, and sunset from Hanalei Bay, while I’m surfing with my friends. Favorite place for happy hour: I don’t do happy hour yet, because I’m still only 19, but I think Tahiti Nui is one of the local favorites. Favorite nightspot: The Dolphin in Hanalei! It has amazing food and great staff! Lucky you live Hawai‘i…because, it’s where I grew up, and it has made me the person I am today. If you were a visitor, you would want to know: Be cautious of the way you drive, especially when almost every place in Hawaiÿi takes your breath away!

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ALOHA

KAUA‘I THE GARDEN ISLAND

It’s no surprise that Kaua‘i typically finds itself ranked as one of the top islands in the world by the readers of Travel + Leisure magazine and the best Hawaiian Island in recent years. There are two of many distinctions Kaua‘i holds that attributed to earning the esteemed awards. The first is that Kaua‘i is the oldest of the Hawaiian Islands, so Mother Nature has had plenty of time to cut deep gorges into the valleys, shape dramatic sea cliffs and sculpt the majestic Waimea Canyon into “the Grand Canyon of the Pacific.” Another primary distinction is that Kaua‘i is also home to the rainiest spot on earth, Mount Wai‘ale‘ale (rippling water), with an average yearly rainfall of 450 inches. Situated almost in the center of the island, this 5,148 ft. tall mountain provides Kaua‘i with the nourishment it needs to earn its monicker as the Garden Isle, with lush rainforests, spectacular waterfalls and verdant tropical foliage. The scenery may steal the show, but it’s the various adventures in the idyllic setting that will get your heart racing. You can navigate one of the Island’s seven rivers on a kayak, trek through the rainforest of Alaka‘i Wilderness Area, wander through multiple jade gardens, hike trails of all levels, and be rewarded with secret waterfalls and golden sand beaches. You can even sit poolside at a five-star resort, where your only exertion is choosing a tropical refreshment. Whatever your pleasure, this emerald island promises a regal vacation. 26

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ALOHA

In case you haven’t noticed, tall buildings don’t obscure any of the natural splendors of Kaua‘i. This is because legislation mandates that no structure built on Kaua‘i is taller than a coconut tree. How it has managed to maintain that code after all these years is a mystery, but Kaua‘i is no stranger when it comes to standing its ground. Not even the Great King Kamehameha could take it down. In fact, in an attempt to prevent further attacks on both his people and his Island, King Kaumuali‘i, Kaua‘i’s last reigning king, decided to cede Kaua‘i to Kamehameha in peaceful negotiations. Now that is the original “make love not war” mentality. This peaceful mindset has been passed on through generations and is apparent in island life today. Kaua‘i has the reputation of having the friendliest residents of all the islands. Not only is the Garden Isle the most beautiful, with paradise settings often portrayed in Hollywood movies, but the feel of the island is relaxed, with a laid-back attitude that resonates in the air as much as the sweet intoxicating aroma of its plumeria. As balmy and dreamy as Kaua‘i is, it does experience a change in seasons, so make sure that you plan your activities accordingly. Actually, the entire state experiences basically two seasons. The Hawaiians named them kau (summer) and ho‘oilo (winter). The summer months range from May through September and those of winter from October through April. Although the seasons are usually mild, you should watch out for excessive rain in the winter. In March 2006, it rained for 40 days and 40 nights, and while nobody spotted an ark in the horizon, there was massive flooding on all of the islands. Before making 28

the famous 11-mile trek along the Näpali Coast, make sure that the skies are clear and there is no chance of rain. The change is weather also brings a change in surf. Winter months will bring large swells to the North and West shores, and the opposite goes for summer months. Heed all warnings on the beach to ensure the safety of your family. Kaua‘i’s main vein of transportation is the predominately two-lane Kaumuali‘i Highway. Named after the king, this 82-mile stretch of highway can really get backed up, especially during rush hour. And yes, paradise does have a rush hour. About 62,000 people live on this over five million year old “Fantasy Island,” and 36,800 residents drive. So to avoid any unwanted stress in paradise, make sure to schedule your road trips around peak travel hours. Aside from this, don’t worry if you need to get from one side of the island to the other, as you could do so in about 90 minutes. So if you like the idea of visiting Waimea Canyon, but would rather stay in the quaint and convenient town of Kapa‘a, near award- winning restaurants and cool boutiques, go ahead, as the average commute time to most places is 30 minutes. Kaua‘i has 552 square miles of diverse terrain, which making it the fourth largest island in the eight-island chain. Obviously, good things come in small land mass. Once you have experienced the diversity and the beauty of each town and its attractions, you will soon agree that the Garden Isle is the best island, offering all the elements of a perfect vacation—rural enough to get away, yet a stone’s throw away from indulgence. Perfect. E komo mai. Nou ka hale (Come inside, the house is yours). KAUA‘I TRAVELER

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NĀPALI COAST The Näpali Coast is by far Kaua‘i’s environmental claim to fame. The towering fluted peaks that reach thousands of feet into the sky are a tropical dream come true. One of the best ways you’ll get to see this dreamy landscape is if you book a tour by boat or air. A trip via sea vessel is perfect for those who want to add a water adventure on their scenic tour. You’ll get a panoramic view of verdant valleys like Miloli‘i, Nuÿalolo, Honopü and Kalalau where ancient Hawaiian communities once prospered. Some of these tours will stop at various locations where guests can snorkel and picnic; some even venture into the depths of mystical sea caves scattered along the mountainsides. Another great way to see this resplendent coast is by getting a bird’s-eye view on a helicopter tour. You’ll be blown away at the sheer beauty of the island as you zip in and out of valleys and creep close to the edge of velvet green peaks and see beautiful waterfalls and idyllic beaches. Näpali by boat: Blue Dolphin Charters (808) 335-5553, Holo Holo Charters (808) 335-0815 or Kauai Sea Tours (808) 335-5309 Näpali by air: Jack Harter Helicopters (808) 245-3774, Safari Helicopters (808) 246-0136, or Sunshine Helicopters (808) 245-5953.

KALALAU BEACH Kalalau Beach can be appreciated from these same vantage points, but there are other ways to reach this famed shoreline. A guided kayak trip during certain seasons or an 11-mile hike that snuggles against the northern portion of the Näpali Coast is only for the properly prepared and athletically inclined. Both of these activities are no joke and if you decide to hike the Kalalau Trail that starts at Këÿë Beach, and plan to stay at least one night in Kalalau Valley as the one-way trip takes almost an entire day to complete. You’ll be tired once you arrive on this striking beach and far removed from civilization, but nature will embrace you as you finally indulge in some time to sit and listen to the waves or watch the evening sky fill with bright stars. Make sure that you acquire proper permits before embarking on this journey—they are required by law. Bring plenty of water, food and sunscreen, and remember to take everything with you when you go. Additionally, be aware of the ocean and, even if it’s calling your name, don’t be tempted to get in. The surf gets extremely rough and, more often than not, presents a problem for anyone who tries tackling it—even seasoned watermen. Better to be safe—and alive—than sorry. As long as you respect the elements, by visiting this magical valley, which once held the largest Hawaiian population along the Näpali Coast, you’ll be treated to an experience to reflect upon for a lifetime. HANAKĀPI‘AI BEACH Camping might not be up your alley but if hiking still is, consider a day trip to Hanakäpiÿai Beach. This is a 4-mile round-trip hike that includes the first two miles of the Kalalau Trail. This trip involves crossing Hanakäpiÿai Stream in order to step foot on the beach so make sure to check the local forecast before heading out—sometimes it’s deceivingly sunny while a deluge is happening in the mountains, sending torrents of flash flood waters toward the sea below and stranding hikers. Also, don’t attempt to swim in the ocean here, it’s extremely dangerous and riptides can, and often do, present serious issues for visitors. When the weather is perfect, however, so is this journey. The beach is a stunning place to relax and unwind on the Näpali Coast. KAUA‘I TRAVELER

PHOTO COURTESY:

hat makes Kaua‘i so charming is that it is one of the main Hawaiian Islands that remain largely unspoiled. While this means nature abounds at almost every corner, it also means there are several places more challenging to get to. There’s only one highway that forms an incomplete circle around the island from the North Shore to the West Side. This means there are a wealth of gorgeous Garden Isle locales that aren’t reachable by paved roads and, therefore, remain largely pristine. Though they might require some additional gumption to access, each and every one is worth the extra effort.

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POLIHALE BEACH Polihale Beach is Kaua‘i’s premier hot spot for sunset viewing and is one of the island’s most beautiful beaches. The only trouble is it’s quite far from where you’re likely staying and demands a challenging, pothole-laced, 5-mile dirt road after Kaumualiÿi Highway (Hwy 50) ends. Give yourself plenty of time to get here before the sun dips below the horizon and pack a picnic. Take a quiet stroll along the long stretch of sand with the tranquil sound of waves breaking on shore. Make sure your rental car is fit for the undertaking, and that you do not drive on sand. Note that most car rental companies won’t allow their vehicles to be driven on unpaved roads, so if you do happen to get stuck, you’ll be responsible for whatever is needed to get the automobile back on solid ground. If you can manage all this and desire to see an unforgettable sunset, the sky will bestow upon you enchanting pink and purple sunset hues, and maybe if you’re lucky, the elusive green flash. You can also camp along this vast stretch of isolated beach as long as you obtain a permit. Camping under the starry night where the southern end of the Näpali Coast begins, you’ll be about as far away from your troubles as you can get, and feel like you’ve found your own piece of paradise.

PHOTO COURTESY: (BOTTOM) KOLOA ZIPLINE; (MIDDLE/OPPOSITE) HOLO HOLO CHARTERS

WAIMEA CANYON AND KŌKE‘E STATE PARKS Maybe you’d rather visit a little less isolated, but equally exquisite hard-to-reach location. Waimea Canyon and Kökeÿe State Parks are just as alluring and, in fact, areas of the Näpali Coast can be seen this way as well. You won’t want to miss a visit to the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific” as it is out-of-this-world beautiful and unlike anything else in the Hawaiian Islands. It will feel like you’re visiting a completely different part of the country as you ogle this some 1,900-acre red gorge sprinkled with waterfalls and alive with native flora and fauna. This self-guided tour culminates at the top of Kökeÿe State Park after about a 20-mile drive from Waimea, reaching an elevation of around 4,000-feet. The last stop overlooks Kalalau Valley and as long as it’s not secretively hiding behind a cloud, it will reveal one of the most sublime vistas you’ll ever see. The entrance to Waimea Canyon Park is located on Waimea Canyon Drive or Kökeÿe Road in Kekaha. Both roads eventually merge before proceeding on Highway 550 to Kökeÿe State Park. Take your time and soak in the scenery along the way, maybe even grab a bite to eat at Kökeÿe Lodge or stop by the Köke‘e Museum. There are also plenty of trails to explore by foot so pack a picnic, and dine with a view.

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MĀHĀ‘ULEPŪ BEACH On the South Shore of the island is Mähäÿulepü Beach that is also accessible by a dirt road that can get a little tricky, especially after it rains. Heed rental car warnings before deciding to proceed here by car. If you don’t want to chance the drive, an unbelievably delightful hike is an option called Mähäÿulepü Heritage Trail. It starts at Keoneloa Bay (commonly referred to as Shipwreck Beach) in Poÿipü. This 4-mile round-trip hike winds along the glorious coast and takes you atop massive sand dunes and limestone formations, carved out for centuries by the wind and sea. You’ll appreciate this undeveloped region of the island that offers a constant view of the Häÿupu mountain range and a boundless ocean bursting with marine life. By the time you reach the beach, you’ll probably be enticed by the water. However, Mähäÿulepü not only has a myhawaiitraveler.com

dangerous past as it was the site of an ancient battle, it poses a serious risk to swimmers as the waters are too harsh to handle. But as long as you’ve got plenty of water (it gets hot on this side of the island with little to no shade on the hike), you can cool down mid-hike underneath an ironwood tree. As long as you don’t throw caution to the wind here, you’ll return with some great memories of a tantalizing Garden Isle experience. You’ve already traveled this far to get to a remote island in the middle of the Pacific, so channel your inner explorer and go experience the out-of-the-way destinations for spectacular, memorable adventures. Book a tour, grab your hiking gear, pack a picnic and appreciate all that Mother Nature has to offer on this beautiful island of Kaua‘i.

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GUARDIANS - OF THE -

REEF WORDS ALISHA GOPAL CHAUHAN

DAVID CHAI 42

KAUA‘I TRAVELER

One of Hawaiÿi’s most respected marine biologists, Terry Lilley, has been at one with the sea since he could speak. He learned to surf at two, spearfish at four and was diving with sharks and making marine movies by the age of ten. After completing his marine biology degree, he traveled the world as a professional surfer studying both reptiles and marine life. His passion for the ocean trumped his love of reptiles as he traded his once worldfamous captive reptile breeding zoo to creating an underwater movie series that was aired around the world for schools and non-profit organizations. This led him to Kauaÿi where he shot underwater video of the coral reefs and its complex, colorful ecosystem. As I walk towards the majestic beauty of Hanalei Bay to interview Terry, I see incoming waves that shine lipo (a deep blue-black) contrasting with dark teal. The waves roll forth, feathering from afar, tumbling to shore, breaking into white water on the sand. Waves crash to mist on the guarding pali (hills), praising their leaves and trees. The mist filters rays of sunset through lavender-tinged clouds. Interestingly, it is the hidden coral that are integral to the creation of this enchanting scene unfolding before me. The ancient Hawaiians revered koÿa (coral) and it is said the coral polyp is the first creature in Hawaiian creation according to the Kumulipo, Hawaiian creation chant. The coral and coral reefs are much like humans and our communities. Individual coral polyps eject calcium carbonate structures to ground themselves as they seek others to build collectives with to grow into a reef community. Coral reefs create a drag on the underside of a wave causing it to break—expending its energy onto the reef instead of the beach. Terry Lilley spends his days and nights in and on the ocean—studying, monitoring and working to protect marine life, namely the state of the coral reefs. His devotion to ocean life stems from knowing that the protection and maintenance of coral reefs is central to the health of the planet and humanity. myhawaiitraveler.com

Kauaÿi’s corals appeared to have a compromised immune system. The reefs close to the Kauaÿi missile base lost over 95% of the corals by 2014. According to a NASA data bank, the amount of electromagnetic radiation the military is discharging along the North Shore of Kauaÿi is over 900 billion watts. We assume a direct correlation of the military’s electrical discharge into the ocean and the rapid compromise of the coral’s immune system. Corals can have many different types of diseases, just like humans. When a coral loses its immune system, then it will be taken over quickly by disease and algae growth. The reef ecosystem is highly competitive with many different life forms. Corals constantly have to clean themselves and, just like all living animals when they get stressed, they often get diseased and die.

Have you made any discoveries as to what is causing the deterioration of coral reefs? In 2012, I started noticing the massive coral reef die-off along North Shore of Kauaÿi. This led to a massive biological study by US Geological Survey. They found that it was indeed a cyanobacteria that was killing and eating the corals. Most corals have a good immune system to fight off bacteria, but

How does climate change affect the health of the reefs? Climate change means the temperatures are warming up on the land and the sea. This causes a complete change in weather, currents, upwelling, surf and all kinds of activities in the sub-surface of the sea. Coral bleaching is a phenomenon when the coral loses algae that grow inside the coral. Corals are usually pure white, but KAUA‘I TRAVELER

PHOTO COURTESY: (ALL) TERRY LILLEY

What is the importance of the coral reefs to the oceans and people’s way of life? Coral reefs are the baby farms for our oceans’ marine life. Baby fish and other sea creatures feed on the living coral and use it as a hiding place to keep from being eaten by predators. Live coral is a very important part of the ecosystem. Corals also protect the coastline from excess erosion. Corals drag on the underside of waves making the wave break. Without corals, the wave energy would hit the beach and rip off the sand causing coastal homes to fall into the sea. A healthy coral reef not only supplies us with food, but also creates a billion dollar a year tourist industry for surfers, divers, snorkelers and the local business community. Even a reduction of 30 percent of our coral reefs will be devastating to our long-term health and economy.

MARINE BIOLOGIST TERRY LILLEY SPENDS HIS DAYS IN AND ON THE OCEAN

they have an algae farm that grows inside the polyps. This gives the coral its beautiful colors: blues, pinks, purples, yellow and greens. When the sea levels and sea temperature rise, sometimes the algae dies within the coral and causes it to turn pure white. That is what is called bleaching. This will actually kill the corals if it continues for a period of time. So that is happening around the world and it is devastating a lot of the coral reefs. What solutions are you personally involved in? My main personal goal is to raise the funds to monitor the coral reefs daily through video so we can track problems and changes. We need to have the proper scientific equipment to monitor the changing ocean chemistry, farm chemicals and sewage discharged into the sea, radiation and the military electronics and sonar. We know that all of these issues can cause corals, whales, dolphins, turtles and other marine life to die. Once we have the reef documented on a daily basis, we can create awareness so a good management plan can be produced to create a sustainable coral reef for our children to enjoy. In 2015 we formed a not-for-profit organization called Reef Guardians that the public can contribute to in a number of ways. myhawaiitraveler.com

What is the purpose of Reef Guardians Hawaii, the not-forprofit organization you support? Reef Guardians is a scientific based nonprofit on a mission to protect the reefs and to inform, educate and create action. Working with local communities, universities, business groups and government, we continue to study the rapid changes to our coral reefs, and near-shore habitats. With a better understanding, and clearly defining the problems within this fragile ecosystem, we are on the path to creating solutions. How do you involve and educate Kauaÿi’s youth, and how are you using media to create further awareness of the coral reefs to the rest of the world? We are actively educating the public and schools through social media by supplying updated movies, pictures and research. We also do full length television shows on National Geographic and other television networks, plus a DVD series that is sold in stores and online. We currently have a marine science class for the local schools and home schools where we teach the students all about our local marine ecosystem and also how to monitor the reefs using video and scientific survey methods. To learn more, visit ReefGuardiansHawaii.org. 45

PLANT

PRESCRIPTIONS HEALING THE HAWAIIAN WAY WORDS JUDY TSUEI

KAUA‘I TRAVELER

Imagine a tiny group of islands in the middle of the Pacific Ocean separated from the nearest landmass by thousands of miles, where the people living here have developed their own culture and medical arts. Believed to be untouched by any outside influence for over a thousand years, the Hawaiians believed in the harmonious interdependence of all the elements of nature—man included. Any medicinal approach was focused on maintaining this harmony, with the understanding that the treatment of the psychic entity would always precede the healing of the physical, yet elements of this were later viewed as forms of “black magic.” Despite this, ancient Hawaiian medicine was very well developed in a variety of disciplines from obstetrics to orthopedics and more. At the end of 2000, Hawaiian herbal medicine became part of the Hawaiian Studies program at the University of Hawaiÿi at Mänoa, thanks to Kumu Levon Ohai and his teaching assistant, Uala Lenta. Known as läÿau lapaÿau (curing medicine), this ancient Hawaiian healing modality is now being revived and evolving to adapt to our modern-day needs. Two of Ohai’s students, Stephanie Montanez (owner of therapeutic skincare company Päläÿau) and Gabriel Monaghan (owner of Hoÿolono Natural Remedies) are bringing Kumu Ohai’s teachings to a wider audience on Kauaÿi in numerous ways. “One of the first teachings I learned from my teacher about native Hawaiian medicine was that being called to myhawaiitraveler.com

this path and being willing to take on this responsibility really has to come from the heart,” Montanez remembers. “It was about your knowingness and an understanding that you already had the wisdom within. As you studied with your elder, it became more a remembering, than being taught something.” While practitioners have nuanced interpretations of the words läÿau lapaÿau, they share a belief that there is a giving of spirit and light in the healing process. Hawaiians also believed that plants had spirit in them, so when a practitioner called upon the plants to help heal someone, the spirit was healing the patient. Läÿau can then be defined as how you connect to spirit and how you connect others with spirit—it is that connection which heals. “As a läÿau practitioner, you’re not just gathering plants and putting them together,” Montanez imparts. “You’re taking care of people’s mana (power). It enriches both peoples’ lives—the practitioner and the patient—so it’s a responsibility and a gift.” Läÿau is deeply rooted in a connection to earth, prayer, and chant, as well as incorporating various elements of Hawaiian culture. One such element is moÿolelo (story or spoken word). Kumu Ohai often spent a substantial amount of time telling Montanez the “craziest stories about life,” while she impatiently wondered, How does this pertain to plant medicine? As she matured in her learning and practice of läÿau lapaÿau, she began to realize that these stories were 47

GABRIEL MONAGHAN

KAUA‘I TRAVELER

“MEDIATORS DO CONFLICT RESOLUTION BETWEEN PEOPLE, AND I’M A FACILITATOR OF THE RESOLUTION BETWEEN A PERSON AND THEIR OWN LIFE.” GABRIEL MONAGHAN lessons in patience, trusting one’s intuition, and seeing the bigger picture at hand, rather than simply the acuteness of what a patient was coming to see a practitioner for. In such a profound practice, Kumu Ohai believed one must have a very profound personal practice themselves if they are to be the person giving such medicine. He strongly encouraged his students to follow the läÿau lifestyle, which included fasting, growing one’s own plants, harvesting, doing prayers, and having a sacred connection with the earth. “I saw such immense healing when people devoted themselves to the practice,” Montanez recalls. Läÿau lapaÿau uses the plants from root to blossoms. Lapa referred to “the whole plant” and ÿau was “to raise one’s vitality and wellness,” therefore a patient’s overall well-being could be enhanced by utilizing the vitality and wellness of the plant. Though originating in Hawaiÿi, läÿau lapaÿau can be practiced anywhere by pulling in the resources within your local environment. “You want to eat the food, herbs, and medicine from the same latitude, longitude, and altitude as the area in which you live, because that will give you the tools you need to live in your particular environment,” Gabriel Monaghan shares. “The plants have done it, so people can do it.” As one of Kumu Ohai’s later students, Monaghan learned that there are no incurable illnesses. “Most mainstream modern medicine throws up their hands at many chronic conditions, because they don’t know how to treat them. The approach we learned from Kumu is to go to the cause. Illness is just a symptom. We must look at lifestyle.” Monaghan views himself as someone akin to a mediator. “Mediators do conflict resolution between people, and I’m a facilitator of the resolution between a person and their own life.” He reviews a patient’s lifestyle, their relationships, and their environment to see what’s working and what’s not. Often, the remedies prove simple, such as getting started with the basics of good nutrition, clean water, and breathing. “But it requires that someone is really ready to do something on their end. You need willing parties—this isn’t a court-ordered mediation. I help people have the support and the insight to look into their lives.” Similar to Montanez, Monaghan firmly believes in the personal relationship a person can have with this living medicine. “Everyone is unique, so there is not a one-size-fits-all solution. I encourage people to ask permission to the plant and listen for a response. You’ll get a response. The plants speak to our inner ear, our heart, if not our eardrums. I believe if you actually ask the plant to help you, the plant will muster up a little more energy for your specific need. This is where that personal relationship happens when making medicine for a patient. Mysticism isn’t woo-woo; it’s matter-of-fact.” One fundamental component of läÿau lapaÿau is an understanding that there is a spirit of life in everything. “We approach the plants by giving them respect, just like we would approach a person, because the plant has life, it has blood, it has spirit,” Monaghan says. “There must be gratitude given for the plant offering its lifeblood to help.” “For me, it’s been a very heart-opening experience to see how much love the plants have and how willing they are to give of themselves,” Monaghan adds. “That’s how it is in nature. The natural world is very honored and

willing to give of its own life to benefit you or another. It is heart opening for me to become more like that—that’s been part of my medicine.” While there is debate around the idea of passing a lineage onward to people who are not native Hawaiians, as certain masters feel that sharing such manaÿo (knowledge) is disrespectful if outsiders do not understand the practice for themselves or the very sacredness of it, Montanez understands the deep responsibility of how to make this ancient practice applicable to today. “My coming into this lost art as a person who was meant to carry it forth, I saw my place very differently, because it was all about going back to our roots and making it modern,” Montanez reflects. “I had a deep connection with an elder that many people won’t ever know, so I’ve been blessed to witness healing from a firsthand experience. I hope people will put effort towards maintaining and preserving läÿau lapaÿau, just like with the Hawaiian language.” MODERN REMEDIES Paÿakai (Salt) It used to be that Hawaiians collected different salt from salt beds during certain moon cycles. If people had broken bones or certain sprains, salt would be used in poultices as it helped with inflammation. Salt is often used today in modern medicinal mixtures, especially when bringing the philosophies of läÿau into everyday life, such as with cooking. Kï (Ti) The ti leaf was used in ancient Hawaiian culture for wrapping wounds, to alleviate headaches and fever, as well as for cooking. Green ti leaves are believed to afford protection from spirits and aid in menstruation. Today, it is much more commonly used in lei necklaces which, when viewed from a modern healing perspective, is still profound, as the lei is symbolic of gifting someone with love, wholeness, completeness, and the mana you put into it. Noni (Indian Mulberry) This canoe plant has many uses and applications and is highly revered in Hawaiian medicine for its healing properties. While the fermented or ripe fruit is largely associated with a distinctive, unpleasant odor and taste, by using noni before it softens, the hard fruit will not have a scent and can be ground up to make a poultice for healing broken bones or to draw out infection. The leaves can be brewed into a pleasant tea; the young leaves can be steamed and eaten; the small, green young fruits (before developing seeds) can be cooked which tastes similar to Brussels sprouts, and is very good for cleaning the blood stream. The fruit has been used as a treatment for various ailments from diabetes, high blood pressure, and heart troubles to ridding lice and worms. Hawaiians believe healing is found in nature and the earth offers a myriad of beneficial plants to help cure what ails you from aching muscles to high fever and headaches. Läÿau lapaÿau is a sacred practice and the knowledge is incredibly valuable for those who seek it.

STYLE

ISLAND STYLE timeless treasures

New Koa Wood Watches with Black and Silver Peacock faces (from $579). Available at Martin & MacArthur in the Grand Hyatt Kaua‘i Shops and The Shops at Kukui‘ula.

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Peace Love World’s fun and exclusive designs featuring the Aloha Tee, Aloha Shorts, and Aloha Hoodie. Luxuriously relaxed and casually elegant, Oasis captures the pleasures of the resort life and the spirit of gracious Hawaiian living. Step into Oasis and allow yourself to be transported into the relaxed, fun, and inviting environment of a beachside cottage. Call (808) 742-8555 or visit shopsofhawaii.com

Na Hoku's Waterfall Collection comes in several styles and sizes and is available in 14K Yellow, White or Rose Gold. Located at the Grand Hyatt Kaua‘i Shops, Po‘ipu Shopping Village or NaHoku.com.

Koa-Pearl Necklace in the colors of the Hawaiian Lehua flower. ($225). Available at Martin & MacArthur in the Grand Hyatt Kaua‘i Shops and The Shops at Kukui‘ula.

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STYLE

pieces of paradise

The Golden pearl yellow gold lariat necklace (right) is a Van Balen trademark design. The founder & chief designer Valerie Van Balen has enjoyed creating this particular piece for over ten years. Available also in white gold, this popular design can be customized for you in any South Sea pearl combination of your choice. The diamond hoop earrings (above) are a staple in every woman's fine jewelry wardrobe. With white diamonds set in yellow or white gold, you can enjoy wearing these elegant earrings everyday! Also available in Tahitian black or South Sea white pearls. The pearl cuff bracelet (left) has quickly become a favorite among our elite clients, as well as our staff! This statement bracelet will definitely get noticed. White diamonds in yellow or white gold, as well as South Sea pearls of your choice. Available at Van Balen Fine Jewelry in The St. Regis Princeville Resort

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ISLAND SHOPPING NORTH SHORE SHOPPING Van Balen Fine Jewelry Our internationally renowned pearl jewelry is hand made on Kaua‘i by Valerie Van Balen, crafted with exquisite attention to detail. In addition to her own creations, Valerie has traveled the globe discovering other world class jewelers, whom she now represents. This allows for a virtual “around the world” shopping experience, all within one relaxing location. We welcome you to visit our store and adorn yourself in our exotic pearl jewelry from Tahiti, Australia and Indonesia. We also carry an enticing selection of ethical diamonds in a multitude of shapes, sizes and colors. Our highly educated staff will provide you with flawless service, guaranteed. Enhance your visit to Kaua‘i by selecting from an unsurpassed collection of fine jewelry. Van Balen Fine Jewelry is the exclusive jeweler to the prestigious St. Regis Princeville Resort, open everyday from 9am to 9pm. (808) 826-6555. SOUTH SHORE SHOPPING Grand Hyatt Shops The shops at the Grand Hyatt Kaua‘i offer something for everyone. Na Hoku features an alluring collection of Tahitian pearls and more. Collectors Fine Art showcases wall art and handblown glass creations. Lamonts carries sundries, snacks and beverages. The Sandal Tree offers a selection of footwear and accessories. Reyn’s continues its tradition of aloha wear for the whole family. Visit Poipu Bay Golf Shop for designer collections for on and off the course. Try Water Wear for beachwear for every age group. Kohala Bay Collections features casual designer elegance. Martin & MacArthur Martin & MacArthur has been making of fine Koa furniture and home furnishings longer than any company in Hawaii. It also features beautiful personal accessories made with its own private stock of Koa from the Big Island, including the only solid Koa watches, Koa sunglasses, Koa-tungsten rings for a shine that lasts forever, and Koa iPhone/iPad covers. Martin & MacArthur has the widest selection of Koa boxes, bowls, Hawaiian feather lei, canoes and weapons. Also be sure to check out the award-winning contemporary sculptures by Rock Cross. Located in the Grand Hyatt Shops and The Shops at Kukui‘ula. myhawaiitraveler.com

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Treat yourself... St. Regis Princeville, Kauai 9am - 9:30pm Daily 808.826.6555 ValVanBalen.com The Shops at Kukui‘ula On the sunny south shore of Kaua‘i, nestled in the renowned resort playground of Po‘ipü, The Shops at Kukui‘ula is Kaua‘i’s premier shopping, dining and fine art destination. The Shops at Kukui‘ula features a combination of internationally and regionally recognized merchants and fine boutiques with one of a kind items. Here you will find designer originals, casual resort and beachwear, slippers and sunglasses, as well as beauty products, jewelry and other gifts which are unique to Kaua‘i. Shops include national brands and regional favorites such as Tommy Bahama, Malie Organics, Sunglass Hut, Mahina, Poipu Surf, Quiksilver, Reyn Spooner, Crazy Shirts

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and Blue Ginger. The Shops at Kukui‘ula is also home to extraordinary galleries featuring a unique collection of fine art originals from Kaua‘i and Hawai‘i, as well as revolving exhibits of contemporary art, nationally recognized landscape art photography, sculpture and art objects, and a unique collection of art jewelry and handcrafted items. Galleries include the internationally acclaimed galerie 103, Halele‘a Gallery, Martin & MacArthur, Red KOI Collection, aFeinberg Gallery, Palms Gallery, Latitudes Fine Art Gallery and Scott Hanft Photography. For more information, visit theshopsatkukuiula.com.

STYLE

island style Fine Australian Opal pendant in 14k gold with diamond accent (below). Grande's Gems offers an excellent selection of fine opal jewelry. Sail Away Necklace in 14k white gold, featuring blue topaz gemstones with fine diamond (right). Available at Grande's Gems.

Sterling silver Coral Branch Cuff (left) designed by Tiffany Grande for Grande's Gems Hawaii. Coral Branch Collection available in 14k yellow, rose, white gold and sterling silver. Available at Grande's Gems. 14k rose gold coral branch ring w/ amethyst (above). Available at Grande's Gems, with locatoins at Kauai Marriott Resort & Beach Club, Kilohana Plantation, Marriott's Waiohai Beach Club or the Princeville Center.

KAUAâ&#x20AC;&#x2DC;I TRAVELER

SOUTH SHORE & LĪHU‘E Grande’s Gems Grande’s Gems Hawai‘i has been featuring nature inspired and romantic jewelry since 1982. Our guests will find fun fashionforward and elegant jewelry in opal, multicolor gemstones, diamond, Tahitian, golden and south sea pearls. Sea life and tropical flower jewelry from Denny Wong and Mikel. Visit us at Kauai Marriott Resort & Beach Club (808) 245-4860, Kilohana Plantation (808) 245-3445, Marriott's Waiohai Beach Club or the Princeville Center, or online at GrandesGemshawaii.com. Mens Hardwear Mens Hardwear is all about the guys. Jewelry, knives, watches, and accessories for men in cool and edgy styles. Featuring men’s jewelry from Scott Kay, Edward Mirell, Triton, and Hellmuth. Tahitian pearl and opal designs from Mens Hardwear collection. Knives from William Henry Studio and Cold Steel. Visit us at our two locations on Kaua‘i, or shop online at menshardwear.com. Na Hoku An incomparable collection of the finest Hawaiian and Island Lifestyle jewelry for women and men; Na Hoku is recognized in Hawai‘i and the world for its exquisite islandinspired designs; from our original Hawaiian slipper (flip flop) pendant, our elegant Palm Tree Jewelry Collection, the timeless Na Hoku diamond solitaire engagement ring and bridal collections, to our extensive Plumeria Jewelry Collection and our traditional Hawaiian jewelry. Featuring unique collections by Kabana, Steven Douglas, Asch/Grossbardt, and Levian, as well as our exquisite Tahitian Pearl designs. Na Hoku jewelry captures the essence of Hawaiian and island lifestyle and is unmatched in quality and craftsmanship. Located in the Grand Hyatt Shops (808) 7421863 and Poipu Shopping Village (808) 7427025 or at nahoku.com. REAL ESTATE Hōkūala Höküala – A Timbers Resort, enjoys a setting among the most spectacular in all of the Hawaiian Islands, a 450-acre natural amphitheater with an unobstructed panorama from the ocean to coastline to sculpted mountains beyond. In the poetic language of native Hawaiians, Höküala means ‘Rising Star’. It is fitting, then, that this epic resort will evolve gradually, beginning with Timbers Kaua‘i - Ocean Club & Residences, a residential enclave located on the ocean's edge of the myhawaiitraveler.com

Pacific. The award-winning Jack Nicklaus Signature Ocean Course, already rated among the very best, features the longest stretch of continuous oceanfront holes in all of Hawai‘i. Höküala offers a rare and delicate balance between adventure and serenity, discovery and accessibility. The evolving vision is to create a place and experience that unites us all in the celebration of the island, its culure, and its people. For more information, call (808) 7206688 or (800) 269-2364. Visit them online at hokualakauai.com/traveler. Kukui‘ula Inspired by the authentic Kaua‘i island culture, and named for the candlenut (kukui) torches that once guided the island’s fishermen back to shore, Kukui‘ula is a Kaua‘i community that offers our homeowners the laid-back lifestyle of classic Hawai‘i. At the heart of our carefully planned Hawai‘i luxury homes, nestled above Kukui‘ula Bay, are the Plantation House, Spa and Makai Pools. From here, the Tom Weiskopf-designed golf course follows the natural flow of the land through the community’s coffee fields, meadows and rolling hillsides — affording wide, panoramic vistas of the Pacific. Call (855) 939-313 or visit kukuiula.com or lodgeatkukuiula.com.

PiliMai by Brookfield Escape to Po‘ipü's newest luxury community. A love of nature and luxury is reflected in every detail of the PiliMai community. Set within the island’s verdant tropical landscaping is a large open-air recreation center, pool house and poolside cabana. There is also a semi-private spa area, a fitness center and a barbecue perfect for hosting visitors. PiliMai offers residents a large resort pool with an adjacent children’s pool, perfect for spending time with family and friends. For those wishing to stretch out in the sun with a good book, the adult pool offers solitude and relaxation. Visit us at 2611 Kiahuna Plantation Drive in Po‘ipü. Call (888) 665-6667 or visit brookfieldhawaii.com. Yvonne Summerfield Come discover Kaua‘i real estate with Kaua‘i's Only 8 Time Top 100 Realtor and you'll discover an island paradise. Yvonne specializes in residential real estate sales throughout Kaua‘i, including luxury homes and estates, oceanfront condos, resort & second home properties, vacation rental properties and land parcels. For exceptional representation call Yvonne Summerfield at (808) 346-7251 or visit YvonneSummerfield.com.

Out of 20,000 real estate agents in the State of Hawaii, 5 Realtors received this award. Only 1 is on Kauai.

“Put The Power Of Performance & Results To Work Representing Your Best Interests”

ART

ART GATHERINGS ARTISTS, FOOD & FUN AROUND KAUA‘I WORDS COCO ZINGARO

Gorgeous vistas, salty air and tropical weather must be the perfect recipe for creative inspiration because talented artisans abound on the Garden Isle. Luckily for visitors, crafters of beautiful items including paintings, photography, jewelry, clothes and culinary delights, regularly gather during art night celebrations around the island to share their work. Festivities occur each month in Hanapëpë, Kapa‘a, Kïlauea, Princeville and Poÿipü, and give local artists a chance to showcase their work, in addition to exchange pleasantries with patrons and passers-by. 56

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Hanapëpë Friday Night Festival and Art Walk The longest running art night on island is held in Hanapëpë—Kaua‘i’s “Biggest Little Town.” This historic westside location, on Hanapëpë Road off Kaumuali‘i Highway, is home to roughly 15 galleries with each having something artistically unique to offer. Every Friday evening, these businesses keep their doors open late from 6pm to 9pm, giving visitors an opportunity to discover exquisite creations. Robert Bader’s wooden sculptures, for example, can be found at his namesake gallery, Robert Bader Wood Sculpture, and the van Gogh-like colors that come alive on artist James Hoyle’s canvases as well as Jenifer Prince’s plein-air paintings that traditionally capture Kaua‘i are showcased at Amy-Lauren’s Gallery. Fine jewelry is another reason to peruse this town on Friday evenings where spots like Pu‘uwai Gallery sell handcrafted, wirewrapped gemstone pieces by Veronica Jewelry. Hanapëpë Art Walk started about two decades ago when several artists wanted to develop a way to draw more people into their galleries. Since then, the event has grown into Hanapëpë Friday Night Festival and Art Walk, which includes food trucks as well as musical entertainment. Venues like Talk Story Bookstore that sells a large collection of new and used books, will often have guest authors, and Storybook Theatre of Hawaii, a nonprofit dedicated toward providing a performing arts and media outlet for kids, is also open late for visitors. “With one restaurant open and a couple of the artists playing music in front of their galleries, it was a quaint beginning of what we now see today,” says Ed Justus, Talk Story Bookstore co-owner, “the buzz grew and the event is now able to draw quality food vendors and musicians to create the well-rounded, wonderful experience it is today.”

for locals and visitors. Several local organizations like the American Cancer Society have also been known to be present along the walk’s approximate half-mile stretch from the Ono Family Restaurant to the Kapa‘a Public Library, sharing pertinent information with the community. Some 10 to 15 different food trucks also dot this portion of the Royal Coconut Coast offering everything from Mexican to Hawaiian-style fare. Visitors might even feel the urge to break out in dance as they walk along the streets since musicians like the local band OCDC will often grace fans with their tunes during this festive evening. What makes Kapa‘a’s art walk even more special are the deals that businesses grant during this one-night-amonth event, giving visitors a chance to scoop up great finds. Work It Out, for instance, invites artists to hold trunk shows and offers sales on their products, which not only includes workout gear, but also locally crafted clothing and jewelry. Another store that invites local artisans to present their products each month is a. ell design & atelier. The store features clothes made on-site as well as work by local artists like Troy Carney who creates keepsakes in the mediums of gold leaf, Japanese woodcut printing, acrylic, oil and watercolor. According to Angelique Ell, fashion designer and owner, she had the idea to hold an art night in order to support local enterprises and artists, so she launched the inaugural Old Town Kapa‘a Art Walk six years ago. “My goal was to brand Old Kapa‘a Town as a unique destination in which shops were locally owned, rich in art and handmade goods, and many of which shops, the owners made their own products,” she says.

For more information on Hanapëpë Friday Night Festival and Art Walk, visit hanapepe.org.

Princeville Night Market The latest art walk/market created by Courtney Puig is held in the Princeville Shopping Center on the second Sunday of every month from 4pm to 8pm and hosts 50+ local artists in addition to live music and food. This is a fun night out for nearby residents and visitors alike to take their time and talk story with the skilled artisans while listening to great live music in the courtyard.

Old Town Kapa‘a Art Walk Arguably the largest of the artistic celebrations is the Old Kapa‘a Town Art Walk located in Kapa‘a. Every first Saturday of the month from 5pm to 9pm, businesses along Kühiö Highway stay open late. In addition to the businesses, multiple vendors set up shop with various keepsakes like jewels, wood carvings and professional photographs that can be a real treat myhawaiitraveler.com

For more information about the Old Town Kapaʻa Art Walk, visit oldkapaatown.org

For more information, email PrincevilleNightMarket@ gmail.com. 57

Kïlauea Art Night One of the newer art walks to hit the scene is located in the quaint town of Kïlauea. The event has given artists on the North Shore like Kopa Kauai Soaps and Henna Hanalei a chance to feature their work. Kïlauea Art Night is held the last Saturday of every month at the Stone Building from 4pm to 8pm. The concept was created by Courtney Puig, who creates pottery, and is an artist herself. In 2013, the first event was launched and some 20 vendors were featured along with the location’s storefront businesses like Oskar’s Boutique. Now, more than 40 vendors with various offerings like artwork and food are invited to attend each month such as KBR Pottery, Powerhouse Creamery and From Under the Moon Jewels. Performances are also a regular occurrence at this celebration, so don’t be surprised to see fire or belly dancers treating audiences to a show. Born from the desire to give a platform to local artists, the Kïlauea Art Night has blossomed into an event where you can enjoy the sights, sounds and flavors of this beautiful, local community. For more information about the Kïlauea Art Night, email KilaueaArtNight@gmail.com. Art and Wine Thursdays at Kaua‘i Beach Resort If you like sipping wine and tasting cheese while perusing artwork, then this may be the best option for you. The event occurs the first Thursday night of every month from 6pm to 7pm in the lower lobby of Kaua‘i Beach Resort. A different wine region is featured monthly, along with a different artist. It’s another opportunity to meet one of Kaua‘i’s talented artists and a chance to appreciate their creativity. The cost to enter is $15 and includes drinks and püpü (appetizers). Visit kauaibeachresorthawaii.com for more information about Kaua‘i Beach Resort’s Art and Wine Thursdays.

KAUA‘I TRAVELER

Art Walk at Kukui‘ula The perpetually sunny South Shore of the island is another locale where artists and musicians join forces once a month to entertain crowds. Every second Saturday of the month, from 6pm to 9pm at The Shops at Kukui‘ula, you can immerse your visual senses in artwork while listening to an eclectic mix of music. Galleries flourish in this open-air mall and will often invite one of their artists to stop by for the evening so patrons get a chance to not only admire the work but meet the artists. Make sure to stop by Palms Gallery which offers an exquisite selection of more than 20 artists that perfectly capture Hawai‘i’s beauty. Each piece—whether a painting or a sculpture—envelops the essence of the islands and gives art aficionados something to admire and potentially take home, providing them with a lifelong memory of their Kaua‘i vacation. Some of the featured artists here include Patrick Ching who creates whimsical lifelike paintings of wildlife and Cher McMacken who paints larger-than-life flowers with exceptional detail. For less traditional, yet just as captivating artwork, meander over to galerie 103. The owner, Bruna Stude, holds rotating exhibits featuring talented artists from around the world. There are “no boundaries” here and the out-of-the-box featured work challenges viewers to dig a little deeper and think about issues like the environmental degradation. Visit TheShopsAtKukuiula.com for more information about the featured galleries and Art Walk at Kukuiÿula. Across the island, no matter where you stay during your trip, there’s a nearby art night you can explore. It’s a unique chance to indulge in delicious food, enjoy local music and perhaps discover a one-of-a-kind piece by an island artist that you’ll cherish long after you’ve left Kaua‘i’s shores.

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ART IN NATURE EXPERIENCE THE AWARD-WINNING LEGO® EXHIBITION AT MCBRYDE GARDEN WORDS COCO ZINGARO

ave you ever seen a 5-foot tall preying mantis or a monarch butterfly with an 8-foot wingspan? How about a hummingbird hovering 8-feet in the air? If you visit one of National Tropical Botanical Garden’s premier properties on the South Shore of Kaua‘i from May 6 to July 10, then you can expect to be delighted with larger-than-life sculptures like these made entirely of LEGO® bricks. NTBG will host the awardwinning exhibition, “Nature Connects: Art with LEGO® Bricks” that will feature 14 nature-themed sculptures created with nearly 400,000 LEGO® bricks and scattered throughout the lush tropical grounds of McBryde Garden. It’s the first time this exclusive show, developed by artist Sean Kenney, will be displayed in Hawai‘i. “Fundamentally, the show is about connections,” says Kenney. “Much as LEGO® pieces connect, everything in nature is connected in an intricate balance.” Meander among monkey pod trees and palms in Läwaÿi Valley 60

while feasting your eyes upon unusual and clever artwork—the perfect recipe for any creative nature lover. The garden alone is worth a visit, but to also get a chance to see LEGO® bricks crafted into elaborate structures that range from a few inches to 8-feet and represent beloved plants and animals, is the cherry on this tropical activity’s sundae. “The bright fun colors, the cartoonish nature of the final piece— there’s just something about LEGO® that makes people smile,” says Kenney. The intricate details of Kenney’s designs ignite children’s imaginations and spark adult’s creativity while, at the same time, sends a message of conservation. It’s a theme that ties in closely with NTBG’s mission to preserve and protect plant species and ecosystems. The goal of the exhibit is to facilitate an alliance between people and nature in a playful and whimsical way by using toys that have been treasured by children (and adults) for decades. KAUA‘I TRAVELER

“THE BRIGHT FUN COLORS, THE CARTOONISH NATURE OF THE FINAL PIECE—THERE’S JUST SOMETHING ABOUT LEGO® THAT MAKES PEOPLE SMILE.” The sculptures have been making their way across the country, appearing in botanical gardens and zoos for several years and have proven to delight people of all ages. The concept of the show was originally developed in 2011 when Kenney collaborated with Iowa State University’s Reiman Gardens to come up with the idea to launch a nationwide tour of his collection. He continues to work with the university and other experts in fields like botany and biology to form new pieces. For the Nature Connects exhibits, Kenney has designed more than 50 sculptures (he has nearly 150 sculptures overall) using over 1.6 million LEGO® bricks. Each sculpture requires an extensive number of LEGO® bricks including more than 60,000 for a monarch butterfly sipping nectar from a milkweed plant. “I love the way the exhibit has come out; it’s really exactly how I imagined it,” he says. Seeing a sculpture installed at the botanical gardens, set outdoors, and in a bed of tulips really makes the piece shine. It’s nice to see a work like this be given proper presentation.” You might wonder how such large scales of work make their way to a tiny island in the middle of the Pacific Ocean. Typically, the exhibit travels by truck across North America, but in this case, the sculptures are making an extra seaward voyage by way of barge. Once they arrive at McBryde Garden, they will be forklifted into their proper places and a team of art handlers will bolt them into the ground. Good thing the works of art also have steel reinforcements and are packed in custom-built, museum-quality traveling exhibition crates to ensure they aren’t damaged along the way. The amount of work required to get the exhibition to Kaua‘i is enough to entice visitors to want to check out such a one-of-a-kind display. But what makes this art show even more special is its special location on the Garden Isle. You could easily call it the perfect combo because it doesn’t get much better than perusing artwork nestled in a gorgeous tropical landscape. The entrance to McBryde Garden is located in sunny Po‘ipü, across from Spouting Horn. Tickets include a self-guided tour of the garden as well as a short shuttle ride onto the property from the South Shore Visitors Center with secluded vistas that you will remember for a lifetime. Departure times are at the bottom of the hour, every hour from 9:30am to 3:30pm, and a minimum of 90 minutes is recommended to see McBryde Garden in its entirety as well as the exhibition. “We hope this exhibit will help us connect with adults and kids that might not normally choose to visit a botanical garden in a way that is relevant, informative and most of all fun,” says Tessa McSwain, NTBG’s marketing manager for McBryde and Allerton Gardens. “We hope they will understand the role NTBG and botanical gardens everywhere play in ensuring these beautiful and valuable plant species exist indefinitely.” Visitors are encouraged to book tickets in advance by visiting ntbg.org/ natureconnects or calling (808) 742-2623. NTBG’s South Shore Visitor’s Center is located at 4425 Läwaÿi Road in Po‘ipü. myhawaiitraveler.com

DESTINATIONS

The North Shore is tranquil and draped in velvety green, with waterfalls cascading from heaven into a verdant valley and the sounds of gentle surf. At the top of Mount Wai‘ale‘ale sits Alaka‘i Swamp. From this wetland, streams of water flow to the beaches below. Along its journey, the water engraves deep, lush valleys, creating a fertile landscape for the cultivation of various crops on Kaua‘i’s North Shore. The Hawaiians divided this area into three land divisions: Ko‘olau, Halele‘a, and Nāpali. 62

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PHOTO COURTESY: (BOTTOM LEFT) KENT CHASTAIN

THE NORTH SHORE

KO‘OLAU The rural communities of Moloa‘a and Kïlauea lay in the ahupua’a of Ko‘olau. Due to its isolation, the beach community of Moloa‘a is often overlooked by visitors. Just ten minutes north of Kapa‘a, Moloa‘a Bay is a great place for swimming, snorkeling or reading a book. Unlike the rocky beaches of Kapa‘a, Moloa‘a offers golden sand and turquoise water. Kïlauea is a former sugar plantation town. The most frequented visitor attraction here is the Kïlauea Lighthouse. The lighthouse is located on a 203-acre national wildlife refuge. Many migratory birds, such as the Pacific Golden Plover, the Laysan Albatross, and the Nënë propagate here. Sometimes you may even see humpback whales, Hawaiian monk seals and spinner dolphins. HALELE‘A Six small beach towns make up the district of Halele‘a. Kalihi Wai is the first and is primarily known for its surf break. Kalihi Wai means “with a stream,” which is fitting, being that it’s next to one. Spend an afternoon kayaking up Kalihi Wai stream. ‘Anini Beach is just across the river. A bridge once connected the two towns until a tidal wave washed it away in 1957. Vacation homes line the beach here and the ocean stays relatively calm due to a wide fringing reef surrounding it. Windsurfing is very popular here. Up the road is Princeville, the Bel-Air of Kaua‘i. This lavish town sits on a plateau that extends from the upper mountains to lower sea cliffs. A short hike down one of these cliffs will take you to Queen’s Bath, a large protected saltwater pond. Princeville offers many amenities that Hanalei doesn’t (like a

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gas station), so fill’er up and head on down to Hanalei. Hanalei is what Kaua‘i probably looked like in the 1800s. Make sure to stop at the Hanalei Valley Lookout, where you’ll find acres of taro fields covering the valley floor. Be on the look out for Beefalo (half cow, half buffalo). Hanalei has become a popular destination for visitors and surfers, and offers some of the largest waves on the island. The water is temperamental, so take heed to any posted warnings. If you can’t swim in the ocean, the Hanalei River feeds into the bay and provides a short but sweet kayak adventure. The valley of Wainiha is believed to be the last hideout of the Menehune, a race of little people. Along this narrow valley lie the remains of old home sites, heiau and taro patches. When you’ve reached the end of the road, you’ve reached Hä‘ena. Explore the wet and dry caves of Waikanaloa, Waikapala‘e and Maniniholo (dry). View Ka Ulu a Paoa, a distinguished hula heiau and discover the underwater sea caves at Kë‘ë Beach. More than likely you’ll end up spending longer than a day here. NÄPALI For the truly adventurous, the district of Näpali is only accessible by foot. The majestic park and coastline consists of streams, cascading waterfalls, dramatic sea cliffs, lush verdant valleys and amazing views. If you plan on doing the 22-mile round trip hike to Kalalau Valley, be prepared. First and foremost, secure a camping permit. Second, pack your bags rationally and third, train! If 22 miles is a bit too adventurous, there are many enjoyable day hikes around the area. Remember, always check the weather conditions before going anywhere.

GOLF

GOLF KAUA‘I Teeing it up on the island of Kaua‘i means negotiating pristine fairways, tropical landscapes and beautiful ocean vistas. But don’t let this natural beauty distract you, as the Garden Isle offers up some of the true tests of the game that will challenge your skills, and concentration. 64

KAUA‘I TRAVELER

MAKAI GOLF CLUB

The Makai Golf Club at Princeville has long been considered one of Hawai‘i’s premier golf facilities. The distinct layout of the course strategically winds around serene lakes and native woodlands, while capitalizing on spectacular coastline views. With the recent renovation by original architect Robert Trent Jones Jr. complete, the course is now open for play! For reservations and information, please call (808) 826-1912 for tee times or visit makaigolf.com.

POIPU BAY GOLF COURSE

Sprawled between lush mountains and rugged ocean cliffs on Kaua‘i’s sunny South Shore, Poipu Bay Golf Course boasts 18 championship holes that are as visually stunning as they are challenging. Designed by Robert Trent Jones, Jr., Poipu Bay is one of the most highly acclaimed resort courses in the Pacific. From 1994-2006, the course played host to the annual PGA Grand Slam of Golf, one of the most prestigious tournaments in the golf world. A round at Poipu Bay Golf Course affords you the opportunity to experience the sheer pleasures and daunting challenges of a course recognized as one of America’s finest and to “play where champions play.” Call (808) 742-8711 or visit poipubaygolf.com.

experienceTroon Golf At the Princeville Makai Golf Club

#3 “BEST COURSES YOU C AN PLAY ” IN HAWAII —Golfweek ONE OF THE “TOP 5 GREAT GOLF SETTINGS” IN THE U.S. —National Geographic Traveler

(808) 826-1912

“#65 ON AMERICA’S 100 GREATEST PUBLIC GOLF COURSES” —Golf Digest, 2015/2016

PRINCEVILLE MAKAI GOLF CLUB IS MANAGED BY TROON GOLF,® THE LEADER IN UPSCALE GOLF COURSE MANAGEMENT

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ADVENTURE

ADVENTURE ISLAND The spirit of adventure thrives on the Garden Isle with secret waterfalls, beaches and hiking trails to excite the explorer in all of us. With so much to discover in the vast ocean, valleys, parks and rivers, the choices are endless and the unmatched beauty is complimentary. 66

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ADVENTURE

ADVENTURE GUIDE AIR TOURS JACK HARTER HELICOPTERS

Jack Harter is the Originator of Helicopter Tours on Kaua‘i. Jack’s motto is “Imitated by All, Equaled by None!” All of the employees at Jack Harter Helicopters work to carry on Jack’s reputation of providing safe, high quality tours that become cherished memories. Choose a 60 or 90 minute narrated tour offered in two types of helicopters. Their luxurious, air-conditioned, 6-passenger Eurocopter AStar features huge floor-toceiling windows for unsurpassed visibility and a two-way intercom system with BOSE noise canceling headsets. Adventurous travelers who seek a little more excitement may want to consider a flight in one of Jack Harter Helicopters’ 4-passenger Hughes 500 helicopters which are flown with the DOORS OFF. FAA Part 135 Certified. Call (808) 245-3774 or helicopters-kauai.com.

SAFARI HELICOPTERS

Safari Helicopters is family owned and was founded in 1987 by Preston Myers, retired commander in the U.S. Naval Reserves. Voted #1 as the Best Helicopters Air Tour Company on Kaua‘i and People #1 Choice. The first to coin the phrase, “Cadillac of Helicopters” due

to the ASTAR 350B2 helicopter’s luxury comfort and floor to ceiling window front and back for unsurpassed visibility. Featuring the BOSE X noise cancellation stereo headsets and FAA Approved multiple camera system to record a video of the passenger’s actual tour. After over 20 years of service, Safari Helicopters continues to offer FAA Part 135 Certified flightseeing tours on two major Hawaiian Islands – Kaua‘i and the Big Island. Most of our full time pilots are military veterans; have Airline Transport Pilots License (ATPL) the highest level of certification by the FAA. Reservations (808) 246-0136 or 800-326-3356 or safarihelicopters.com.

SUNSHINE HELICOPTERS

Experience Kaua‘i’s hidden wonders that can only be discovered from the air. See areas where no one has ever set foot. Your tour will include famous areas that make Kaua‘i a favorite location for Hollywood filmmakers. You will see lush valleys dotted with waterfalls, colorful Waimea Canyon and the impenetrable Näpali Coast known for its towering razor sharp cliffs and secluded beaches. Depart from Lï‘hue Heliport or the exclusive Princeville Heliport. Call (808) 245-8881.

take the leap

on Skyline’s “Plank” zipline

EXPLORE KAUA‘I ATV TOURS

Venture into Kaua‘i’s lush, tropical paradise on the back of a semi-automatic, easy to use All Terrain Vehicle. Choose one of our daily ATV expeditions through the gorgeous mountains of Kaua‘i’s south side for an unforgettable experience on the road less traveled. Ride your own ATV on 22,000 acres of private dirt roads and trails. Enjoy breathtaking mountain and coastline views, unspoiled tropical landscapes inaccessable to the general public and a half mile tunnel through the heart of the Ha‘upu mountain range. Come join us for the ultimate off-road adventure. Call (808) 742-2734.

KIPU RANCH ADVENTURES

We are proud to be one of the top eco-tours in Hawai‘i. We enable visitors and residents alike to discover the rich history, landscape and legends that make Kaua‘i unique. Guests return to us year after year because of our enthusiastic dedication to high standards of quality and service. Adventure lovers enjoy the thrills of our ATVs while nature lovers and photography enthusiasts enjoy our Rhino and Ranger passenger tours. We also cater to private groups, families, companies and weddings. Spend a few hours with us and see why we are the number one ATV tour in Hawaii! You will be deeply moved by your experience of genuine aloha, history and tropical adventure. Call (808) 246-9288 or visit kiputours.com.

KOLOA ZIPLINE

Come experience the breathtaking beauty of Köloa; from the beauty of the natural settings to the preservation of the rich history of the land. Travel through and above a variety of ecosystems located on Grove Farm lands on 8 fantastic ziplines. Watch the sun set on our Sunset Tour and fly hands free over the jungle like your favorite super hero in our custom upgradeable Flyin’ Kauai’an Harness. Brave the island’s longest lines at Koloa Zipline! Call (808) 742-2734 or visit koloazipline.com.

SKYLINE ECO ADVENTURES

*Some restrictions apply.

Minutes from the sandy beaches of the Po‘ipü Resort area, Kaua‘i’s newest zipline thrills guests with 8 spectacular ziplines that soar over lush mountain valleys. Enjoy sweeping ocean and mountain views, edge-ofyour-seat adventure, and bragging rights with your friends back home! Trust the first and most experienced zipline operator in the U.S. - with nearly 2 million safe zipline crossings on multiple courses, Skyline Eco Adventures utilizes the safest and most proven zipline operational system in Hawai‘i. Visit our retail store at The Shops at Kukui‘ula in Po‘ipü. Call (808) 878-8400 or (888) TO-GO-ZIP. Visit us online at zipline.com.

zipline.com/Kauaitraveler or call 808-419-7948 68

KAUA‘I TRAVELER

MULTI-YEAR WINNER!

“Our pilot was terriﬁc and his narration was superb. The whole staff was friendly, attentive and helpful from the minute we arrived for check-in until we waved Aloha.

The entire experience was the

absolute high point of our vacation.” Satisﬁed JHH Customer

Eurocopter AStar “Doors-On”

“Going to Kauai and not taking a helicopter ﬂight is like going to the Sistine Chapel and not looking up.” The Ultimate Kauai Guidebook

Hughes 500 “Doors-Off”

Now all you have to do is decide…

Do we ﬂy “Doors-On” or “Doors-Off”?

808.245.3774 www.helicopters-kauai.com myhawaiitraveler.com

Off-Island Toll-Free: 1.888.245.2001 FAA Part 135 Certiﬁed | 4231 Ahukini Road, Lihue, HI 96766 Tour paths will vary according to weather conditions. Weight Restrictions Apply. 24-Hour Cancellation Notice Required.

ADVENTURE SNORKEL, SAIL & SURF BLUE DOLPHIN CHARTERS

The highlight of any vacation has to be a Kaua‘i Näpali Coast sailing tour, sailing down the Näpali with dolphins surfing at the bow of your catamaran, is the ultimate in ecotourism and adventure travel. We offer the best ocean sightseeing experience and whale watching tours of any charter boat company in the Hawaiian Islands. Our Kaua‘i sailing tours also venture to Ni‘ihau, The Forbidden Island, and along the shores of Po‘ipü Beach for a romantic sunset sail. Everyone enjoys scuba diving, snorkeling, fishing, and the true spirit of aloha from our experienced, fun loving, crew. (808) 335-5553. Visit us online at kauaiboats.com. Located in Port Allen Marina Center in Ele‘ele.

HAWAIIAN SURFING ADVENTURES

We provide quality surf instruction in beautiful Hanalei Bay, Kaua‘i, creating the memory of a lifetime. What makes us stand out from the competition? Our surf instructors are lifeguard certified, the lessons include top of the line surf boards and leashes/custom rash guards and our instructors are all big wave riders themselves. Yet, they know how to make sure your experience is fun while you accomplish your goal of surfing. Call us today at (808) 482-0749.

HOLOHOLO CHARTERS

The memories should last a lifetime, not the trip getting there. Our two boats, Leila and Holo Holo, get you to the action quicker than anybody else, so you have more time to snorkel, sightsee, relax and enjoy the pristine waters and spectacular cliffs of Kaua‘i’s Näpali Coast, and the “forbidden island” of Ni‘ihau. We offer morning snorkel sails along the Näpali Coast with an optional tour to Ni‘ihau. We also offer romantic Näpali sunset sails in the evening. Located in the Port Allen Marina Center in Elee‘le. Call (808) 335-0815 for reservations or visit us online at holoholocharters.com.

KAUA‘I SEA TOURS

Kaua‘i Sea Tours is unique among the boat tour operators on Kaua‘i, as they offer both traditional catamaran tours and adventurous zodiac boat tours of the Näpali Coast. Both tours are run by experienced boat captains, who are educated on Kaua‘i wildlife, conservation and history. Come aboard Kaua‘i Sea Tours for a “can’t miss” adventure! Take advantage of our unique permits to land on the Näpali Coast and hike into an ancient Hawaiian Fishing Village. Enjoy our delicious, catered lunch on board and view some of the most diverse marine life in Hawai‘i. We’ve been granted a State Parks Special Use Permit, which means you’ll see remote beaches where others can’t go. Tours depart from Port Allen Marina Center in Ele‘ele, 4353 Wai‘alo Rd. Ste 2B-3B. Call (808) 826-7254 for reservations.

SNORKEL BOB’S

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receptive in a minute. The BUBBA SNORKELS (adult & kid sizes) drain splash water, block backwash and clear easy. Sumo™ Mask & Bigfoots™ fins (15-17) for the mongo among you. Boogie boards, beach chairs & FREE 24-HOUR INTERISLAND GEAR RETURN. Book 2 seats on most activities and get a FREE Boogie Board for the week. Open 8 to 5 Every Day. Located in Kapa‘a (808)823-9433 and Koloa (808)742-2206, or visit snorkelbob.com.

ATTRACTIONS NORTH SIDE ALAKA‘I WILDERNESS PRESERVE

The Alaka‘i Wilderness area is a mystical rainforest in the high plateau near Mt. Wai‘ale‘ale and is home to some of Hawai‘i’s rarest plants and endangered birds. On clear days, you can see breathtaking views of Hanalei and Wainiha valleys. The park includes nature trails and a boardwalk over marshy terrain to explore the most interior park in Kaua‘i. The Alaka‘i Swamp is 10 miles long and two miles wide. Wear appropriate hiking clothes (bring a sweater) and shoes. The boardwalk can be very slippery, wet and muddy at times. The trail ends at the vista of Kilohana on the edge of Wainiha Pali. Located off Hwy 550 adjacent to Köke‘e State Park. Call (808) 335-9975 for weather info in Köke‘e or hawaiitrails.org.

DRY AND WET CAVES

Maniniholo Dry Cave is said to have been dug out by Manini-holo, the chief fisherman of the Menehune in search of an evil spirit who stole the fish intended for the Menehunes. Scientifically, sea caves are formed by ocean waves pounding away at the lava for thousands of years. The grotto is covered with fern and vines and is located across Hä‘ena Beach Park off Rte. 560. Waikapala‘e Wet Cave and Waikanaloa Wet Cave are the remains of an ancient lava tube created by the forces of the sea. The cold water in the caves is fed by underground springs and the level of water depends on the tides. The caverns are said to have been used as a gathering place for chiefs in ancient times. Swimming is not recommended due to the presence of leptospirosis found in fresh water. Wear appropriate shoes to prevent injury from the slippery lava rock. Located western end of Rte. 560. Both wet caves are located just before mile marker #10 on the left, past Hä‘ena Beach Park.

HANALEI VALLEY OVERLOOK

More than beautiful, the Hanalei Valley is mystical, magical and substantial, with spectacular vistas and a half-mile patchwork of taro ponds. The fertile and ancient kalo lo‘i (the flooded taro fields) of Hanalei have fed the Hawaiians since the first Polynesians arrived here over a thousand years ago. Currently, it still produces most of the state’s taro for poi, a Hawaiian staple. You can see the 900-acre National Wildlife Refuge from the overlook. Located on Hwy 56 in Princeville.

KĪLAUEA LIGHTHOUSE

A National Historic Landmark, this lighthouse had the largest clamshell lens of any lighthouse in the world and served as a beacon since it was built in 1913 to guide passing sea and air traffic. The light was replaced in the 1970s with a low-maintenance light beacon. You can walk into the lighthouse but not the lantern room. Located on Kïlauea Lighthouse Rd. Open daily 10am4pm. Call (808) 828-0168.

KĪLAUEA POINT NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE

A refuge for several species of seabirds, some nesting and some endangered, surrounds the lighthouse. Red-footed boobies, Laysan albatrosses, wedge-tailed shearwaters and the magnificent frigate bird with 7½foot wingspan are just some examples of birds that can be seen at the refuge. Make reservations for the twohour guided hikes through the refuge, available Monday through Thursday. Located on Kïlauea Lighthouse Rd. Open daily 10am-4pm. Admission is $3 per person; children under 16 are free. Call (808) 828-0168.

LIMAHULI GARDENS

Beautiful botanical garden in a lush tropical valley is used to preserve native flora and fauna in its natural environment. It is also home to endangered plants. Built by early inhabitants, you can walk through the lava terraces and see the working taro patches in the ancient Hawaiian tradition. Reservations are required for guided tours. Self-guided tours are $15 for adults and free for children 12 and under. Wear comfortable walking shoes; umbrellas are provided (mosquito repellant may be necessary). Open Tuesday-Friday from 9:30am-4pm. Located on Rte 560 in Hä‘ena. Call (808) 826-1053 or ntbg.org.

NĀPALI COAST AND STATE PARK

The Kalalau Trail is an 11-mile trek through the spectacular Näpali Coast. From Kë‘ë to Hanakäpï‘ai Beach is about 2 miles. There is an uneven trail (for the physically fit) to a waterfall and freshwater river pool about 2 additional miles back of the Hanakäpï‘ai Valley. The park consists of streams, cascading waterfalls, high sea cliffs, lush valleys and amazing views. The hike beyond Hanakäpï‘ai can be strenuous and is suitable for experienced hikers only. There are several campsites in the park, but make plans well in advance since permits are limited and the wait list can be long. The trailhead for Kalalau Trail is at the end of Hwy 56. Call (808) 274-3444 or visit hawaii.gov/dlnr/dsp/fees.html for camping information.

WAI‘OLI MISSION HOUSE

Built in 1837, the missionary home is set in beautiful Hanalei Valley and was restored by descendants of the first missionaries Lucy and Abner Wilcox. The house was restored in 1921 by the granddaughter and houses historical furnishings made from koa wood. Located off Kuhio Hwy. Free. Open Tues., Thurs., and Sat. 9am-3pm. Call (808) 245-3202. KAUA‘I TRAVELER

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ADVENTURE EAST SIDE FERN GROTTO

A beautiful, natural amphitheater of volcanic rock covered with enormous fishtail ferns, is the venue of choice for many weddings. The only way to reach the Fern Grotto is either to kayak upriver or book a boat ride. The latter has the reputation of being a bit cheeky and a tourist trap, but if you don’t feel like the exercise then be prepared to sing along. Nevertheless, you will enjoy the lush, tropical scenery along the way. Located in Wailua River State Park.

KAMOKILA HAWAIIAN VILLAGE

An authentic recreation of an ancient Hawaiian folk village illustrates ancient Hawaiian lifestyle on 3 acres of private land. The last king of Kaua‘i once resided here. Several huts and displays show how ancient Hawaiians lived, including a courtyard featuring Hawaiian games, such as spear throwing and Hawaiian bowling, which were essential in building skills. Admission: $5 adults, $3 children for self-guided tours. Located on the east shore of the Wailua River Valley at 6060 Kuamo‘o Road (Rte 580) across from Öpaeka‘a Falls. Call (808) 8230559.

KEĀHUA ARBORETUM

The serene 30-acre refuge with streams and freshwater pools is a perfect setting for a picnic surrounded by mountains and lush foliage. The arboretum is divided by the stream and has a variety of foliage including monkeypods, mango, eucalyptus trees, ‘öhi‘a lehua and hibiscus. Picnic areas and pavilions can be found throughout the area for your enjoyment. There are two short hiking trails through the park. You can access the trailheads for Kuilau-Ridge Trail (incredible views from this trail) and the Moalepe Trail from this area. Open sunrise to sunset. Located down the road from the Wailua Reservoir on Hwy 580. Call (808) 241-4463.

ŌPAEKA‘A FALLS

This beautiful waterfall is the easiest to view, as it tumbles out of the jungle into a dramatic plunge over a high cliff about a 150-feet into the Wailua River. The name means "rolling shrimp," for the days when swarms of shrimp were seen rolling in turbulent waters at the base of the falls. The best time to view the cascading falls is mid-morning, and the best view is from the path along the highway. Located in Wailua off Hwy 56 on Kuamo’o Rd (Rte. 580) at mile marker 6.

ROYAL BIRTHSTONES

Royalty came to Wailua from the neighboring islands to give birth at the sacred birthstones of Pöhaku Ho‘ohönau. According to legend, if the child was to become a great chief, the heavens would rupture with thunder and lightning followed by rain. When the baby’s umbilical cord fell off, it was wrapped in kapa (cloth made from bark) and placed in the crevices of the Pöhaku Piko for safekeeping. Located Kuamo‘o Rd. (Rte. 580) in Wailua River State Park. 72

SLEEPING GIANT VIEWPOINT

This formation on Mt. Nounou that sort of resembles a giant is a landmark between Wailua and Kapa‘a. There are several myths and legends surrounding the Sleeping Giant. According to one, the villagers tricked a giant named Puni into eating stones to keep him from eating all the fish and taro, and he fell asleep with a full tummy, never to wake again. Mount Nounou Trail is about a two-mile trek through the forest to the summit of the Sleeping Giant’s belly with spectacular views of the Island and sometimes, O‘ahu can be seen 110 miles east. The hiking trail begins on Haleilio Road. To view the Sleeping Giant, look for the sign marking the viewing area near the Chevron station in Kapa‘a. Located off Hwy 56.

WAILUA RIVER STATE PARK

A popular place to spend a day for the wide range of activities, as well as the lush scenery of tropical foliage, Wailua River is the only navigable river in the state. Activities in the park include water skiing, kayaking, hiking trails, famous waterfalls, the Fern Grotto, an ancient Hawaiian Village, and seven sacred heiau and historic landmarks. At the mouth of the river, ancient petroglyph carvings on large stones can be seen depending on the amount of sand in the area. Once the banks were a favorite dwelling place for high chiefs and kings of Kaua‘i. If you want to kayak on your own without a guide, only three kayak rental companies rent kayaks for the Wailua River. Kayakers should stay on the right side of the river. No guided kayak tours are available on Sundays. Wailua River is located off Kuhio Hwy. Scenic views and historic sites can be accessed from Kuamo‘o Rd. Call (808) 241-4463

LI‘HUĒ & SOUTH SIDE ‘ALEKOKO (MENEHUNE) FISHPOND

Built for a young chief, this fishpond was unique in that it was built for the river instead of the coast like most others. The fishpond once covered 40 acres and consisted of a 900 ft. long wall that separated the fishpond from the stream, but today only remnants remain of the great wall. According to legend, the Menehune built the massive aquaculture facility in one night before sailing away on a floating island. Located off Hwy 50. Take Puhi Rd. to the end, and then turn left on Hulemalu Rd. The fishpond can be seen from the overlook.

GROVE FARM HOMESTEAD

The lovely plantation home was built in 1864 and opened as a living museum in 1978, featuring many displays and exhibits to paint the life of the sugar plantation days gone by. The historic home is beautifully furnished and has a staircase made from native koa wood. The grounds include giant trees and tropical flower gardens. Located south of Lihue on Highway 58. Admission is $20 and $10 for children 12 & under. Access is by tour only, which is offered twice a day Mon., Wed., and Thurs. at 10am and 1pm. Call (808) 245-3202 to make reservations in advance.

KAUA‘I MUSEUM

With artifacts, vintage photographs and exhibits, Kaua‘i Museum presents a factual look into Kaua‘i’s history. The galleries include a permanent collection of ancient Hawaiian artifacts. Located 4428 Rice Street. Admission is $10. Call (808) 245-6931 for information.

KĪPŪ FALLS

The beautiful falls are popular with locals and tourists alike. The falls are fed by Hule‘ia Stream on its way to Näwiliwili Bay and drop off into an inviting crystal blue pool. NEVER dive or jump into the pool, and evaluate the water conditions before entering. It’s a good idea to wear reef shoes since the rock wall can be very slippery. Keep in mind that leptospirosis bacteria can be present in freshwater streams. Located off Kïpü Road one mile past Puhi. Turn left onto the dirt road before the bridge. Park your car near the gate. A short walk downstream leads you to the falls.

KUKUI O LONO PARK

Because the park is set on top of a hill, you will enjoy spectacular panoramic vistas in every direction. Stroll through the lovely serene Japanese-style garden or play the public golf course. The tranquil park is a lovely place to have a romantic picnic with sweeping ocean views of Läwa‘i Valley. Kukui O Lono means light of the god Lono. Located on Papalina Road off Hwy 50 in Kaläheo.

NATIONAL TROPICAL BOTANICAL GARDEN

The National Tropical Botanical Garden is an exceptional preserve and houses the world’s largest collection of rare and endangered plants, and includes the Allerton, McBryde and Limahuli (North Shore.) The gardens are stunning examples of native landscape and design. The NTBG provides a haven for tropical endangered plant species to thrive and focuses on the cultivation of traditional medicinal plants. The Allerton Garden sits on the site of Hawai‘i’s Queen Emma’s summer cottage. This 80-acre tropical retreat hosts the Island’s living treasures in an enchanting garden and also has a private beach that turtles use to lay eggs. It’s a good idea to make advanced reservations for the Allerton Garden since tours are limited. McBryde Garden is set in seclusion between rugged cliffs, making it ideal for learning about the native plants while viewing rare and endangered Hawaiian species. Call (808) 7422623 or visit ntbg.org.

PRINCE KŪHĪO PARK

At Prince Kühïo Park you can pay your respects to Hawai‘i’s first delegate to the U.S. congress, Prince Jonah Kühïo Kalaniana‘ole. He is known as “People’s Prince” because of his great accomplishments for native Hawaiians. A state holiday is observed in his honor, while the park honors his birthplace with a statue. While here, you can see the Hoai Heiau, the foundation of Prince Kühïo’s home, and the royal fishpond. Located on Läwai Road. KAUA‘I TRAVELER

SPOUTING HORN

To the west of the park is Spouting Horn, a cascade of water that shoots up like Old Faithful from an opening of an ancient lava tube with every incoming wave. Located across from the National Tropical Botanical Garden on Läwai Road.

TREE TUNNEL

Giant eucalyptus trees planted over 150 years ago by Scotchman Walter Duncan McBryde create the Tree Tunnel, the gateway into Koloa and Po‘ipü. Turn south on Hwy 520, Maluhia Rd.

WAILUA FALLS

A stunning 80-foot tiered waterfall is easy to view close to the roadside lookout. Nicknamed the Fantasy Island waterfalls for the prominent opening scene of the falls for the hit television show. It’s best to view the falls in the morning when the sun adds to the beauty of the falls. The power of the falls depends on the rainfall. A slippery hike down a steep trail leads you to the bottom of the waterfalls for a cool swim. Located off Hwy 56, end of Ma‘alo Rd.

WEST SIDE CAPTAIN COOK’S MONUMENT

Captain James Cook, the British explorer, landed in Waimea Bay in January 1778 with his ships Resolution and Discovery, marking his first visit to the Hawaiian Islands. Facing the sea, a statue of Cook stands in Waimea to mark the historic event that would forever change Hawai‘i. Located in Hofgaard Park in the downtown area.

KALALAU VALLEY LOOKOUT

PHOTO COURTESY: KENT CHASTAIN

The lookout provides panoramic views into the majestic valley—without breaking a sweat—from the 18 mile marker. It is one of the most spectacular views on earth with striking sea cliffs and the cobalt Pacific looks into the largest valley in Näpali. Kalalau Valley is dramatic, with jagged emerald ridges, and is best viewed in the morning to avoid the clouds. Further ahead is Pu‘u o Kila Lookout, which offers even more astonishing views of the valley and the deep blue ocean. Both lookouts are located at the end of the Köke‘e Road. Call (808) 335-9975 for weather information.

KŌKE‘E NATURAL HISTORY MUSEUM

This little museum provides interpretive programs and exhibitions about Kaua‘i’s climate, geology and ecology. The museum has great information about the forest, hiking trails and conditions and sells maps and local books. Located past the 15 mile marker off Köke‘e Road. Turn left after the park headquarters. The museum is next to Köke‘e Lodge just before the campground. Open everyday 10am-4pm. Free. Call (808) 335-9975 or visit kokee.org.

MENEHUNE DITCH (KĪKĪ A OLA)

Only remnants remain of what was once a great watercourse and aqueduct that extended 25 miles up the Waimea River—made from smooth lava stone brought from Mokihana. Legend has it that the Menehune, race of little people, built the ditch in one night for the high chief of Waimea to irrigate the taro patches for Waimea residents for payment of shrimp. Archaeologists say the historic site was built before Polynesians came, possibly by the Menehune. Located off Hwy 50 on Menehune Rd. just before the 23mile marker.

WAIMEA CANYON LOOKOUT

The Grand Canyon of the Pacific is a breathtaking gaping gorge with dramatic ridges and deep ravines shaped by the steady process of erosion and collapse of myhawaiitraveler.com

the volcano that formed Kaua‘i. It is roughly 10 miles long and 3,600 feet deep. The canyon is spectacular and majestic with jewel-tone colors of reds and greens. Take the scenic but narrow drive on Waimea Canyon Drive (Rte 550) from Hwy 50, or turn up the steep Köke‘e Road at Kekaha. The two roads merge into Köke‘e Road after a few miles up. Waimea Canyon Lookout is between mile markers 10 and 11. Check out the spectacular vistas from scenic lookouts at Pu‘u Hina Hina (3,336 feet elevation), where the private island of Ni‘ihau can be seen on clear days, and Pu‘u Ka Pele where the Waipo‘o Falls are visible after a heavy rainfall. Be prepared for cooler weather, and make sure you have some fuel in your car. Waimea Canyon Drive ends at Kalalau Lookout about 4 miles above the park. 73

DESTINATIONS

THE SUNNY SOUTH SUNNY PO‘IPŪ TO WAIMEA CANYON

tunnel of tall eucalyptus trees marks the gateway to Kaua‘i’s sunny South Shore. Perfect weather and golden beaches make the south side of Kaua‘i a favorite hang out for both visitors and locals. Old Köloa Town is home to Hawai‘i’s first active sugar mill, the birthplace of the Hawaiian sugar industry, which was the state’s strongest economy for more than a century. Although the mill is inoperational now, the charming town thrives with activity from the many restaurants, boutiques and shops that line the wooden sidewalks. One of the best ways to really experience all the South Shore has to offer is by ATV, exploring its beautiful vistas, plantations and waterfalls. Fun! Just a couple of miles south of Köloa lies sunny Po‘ipü, a major resort destination with beachfront condos and restaurants developed around some of the best beaches on the Island. Once there, you will see why Po‘ipü Beach has been voted America’s Best Beach by the Travel Channel. It’s no wonder, as Po‘ipü provides beachgoers a place to snorkel, swim, wade, boogie-board, kayak, surf and sunbathe. Swimming at all levels can be enjoyed, from the protected natural saltwater pools to the more exciting wave action for the experienced. With three bow-shaped bays, each with their own environment, Po‘ipü thrives with a multitude of marine life. Looking to satisfy the explorer in you? Then discover the secluded and diverse landscape of Mähä‘ulepü. With rugged limestone cliffs, ancient burial grounds and rocky sea caves, your journey will be unforgettable. If trekking by foot, start at Shipwreck Beach, located just east of the Hyatt. (Hint: If you see locals jumping from a 50-ft sand dune at Makawehi Point, you’re headed in the right direction.) Once in the ironwoods, you should be able to pick up the trail. If you have a 4WD and a watch, you can drive in. But 74

if you do drive, pay attention to the time, as the park closes at 6pm, and you don’t want to get locked in. At Prince Kühïo Park, you can pay your respects to Hawai‘i’s first delegate to the U.S. congress, Prince Jonah Kühïo Kalaniana‘ole. He was known for spearheading the Hawaiian Homes Commission Act. This sets aside 200,000 acres of leasehold land for indigenous Hawaiians. A state holiday is observed in his honor, while the park honors his birthplace. To the west of the park is Spouting Horn, a cascade of water that shoots up like Old Faithful from an opening of an ancient lava tube with every incoming wave when the tide is high. A visit to the Garden Island wouldn’t be complete without visiting a garden or two. The National Tropical Botanical Garden and the Allerton Garden are two stunning examples of native landscape and design. The NTBG provides a haven for tropical endangered plant species to thrive and focuses on the cultivation of traditional medicinal plants. The Allerton Garden sits on the site of Hawai‘i’s Queen Emma’s summer cottage. This 80-acre retreat hosts the Island’s living treasures in an enchanting garden and also has a private beach that turtles use to lay eggs. It’s a good idea to make advanced reservations for the Allerton Garden since tours are limited. Just a little inland from the opulent coast, is the modest town of Kaläheo. Take a drive through the neighborhood and experience true island living. Stop and picnic in paradise in Kukui O Lono Park. Because the park is set up on top of a hill, you will enjoy spectacular panoramic vistas in every direction, including the south coast and Läwa‘i Valley. Stroll through the lovely serene Japanese-style garden or play the public golf course. By blending luxury and tradition, the South Shore of Kaua‘i is sure to provide something for everyone. KAUA‘I TRAVELER

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TASTE SOUTH SHORE DONDERO’S Dondero’s will satisfy your soul as well as your appetite. The elegant ambiance and stellar service makes this a dining favorite for those with discriminating taste. The menu is designed as an Italian tasting menu, offering complimentary flavors and contrasting textures with a large selection of appetizers, homemade pastas, fresh fish, chicken, lamb and beef specialties. This light, modern Italian cuisine is carefully paired with wines from all over the world. Located in the Grand Hyatt Kaua‘i Resort. Call (808) 240-6456. EATING HOUSE 1849 BY ROY YAMAGUCHI The Eating House 1849 pays homage to Hawai‘i’s vibrant culinary heritage, a nod to restaurateurs like Peter Fernandez who, the story goes, opened one of the first restaurants in Hawai‘i. Called the Eating House, back in the mid-1800s, using what was available from local farmers, ranchers, foragers and shermen. It’s here that award-winning Chef Roy Yamaguchi blends these two worlds: the easy ambiance and simple flavors of a plantation town with the dynamic modernity of haute cuisine. Located at the Shops at Kukui‘ula. Call (808) 742-5000 for reservations. LIVING FOODS GOURMET MARKET Explore Living Foods Gourmet Market, Cafe and Juice Bar and discover the freshest seasonal specials and local favorites, as well as handpicked imports from around the world. The market is open from 7am to 9pm and features a diverse selection of products including beer, wine and spirits, dairy, butcher, local catch and more. 76

Enjoy tasty recipes for breakfast, lunch and dinner in the cafe from 7am to 8pm or refresh with juices, smoothies, frosties and more at the Juice Bar from 7:30am to 4:30pm. Located at The Shops at Kukui’ula. Call (808) 742-2323. MERRIMAN'S FISH HOUSE In a casual yet elegant setting of an old Hawai‘i plantation, Chef-Owner Peter Merriman serves his unique style of Hawai‘i Regional Cuisine. A pioneer in the "Farm to Table" concept, Peter serves only the freshest products, at least 90 percent of which are locally grown or caught, using only sustainable methods. His international menu items are prepared in a manner that highlights the natural flavors of these fresh and local foods. Featuring both mauka (mountain) and makai (ocean) views as well as sunset views over the Kukui'ula resort, with a premium bar upstairs, a downstairs cafe for casual dining, and an over 1,000 bottle wine cellar. Our facilities can host private parties and meetings. Our aloha-friendly staff, with a food and beverage knowledge second to none, will ensure that you have an extraordinary dining experience. Located in The Shops at Kukui‘ula. For reservations, call (808) 742-8385. MERRIMAN'S GOURMET PIZZA & BURGERS Featuring a wide selection of artisan burgers and specialty salads, all made with fresh locally-grown ingredients. The restaurant's house-made culinary cocktails and sweet treats are not to be missed! Gluten free and vegan options are also available in this fun, family friendly atmosphere. Located in The Shops at Kukui‘ula.

STEVENSON'S SUSHI & SPIRITS The warm woods and intimate seating areas of this classic lounge create a welcoming atmosphere. Take a seat at the 27-foot, hand crafted koa wood bar or sink into a cozy chair or sofa in the booked lined room. Chef Jay creates delectable sushi creations nightly in this unique Kaua‘i bar boasting an extensive selection of Whiskies, Cognac and Port in addition to creative martinis and delectable tropical drinks. Kick back and enjoy live entertainment nightly ranging from Contemporary Hawaiian to Jazz to Indie Pop. Enjoy a game of pool, backgammon or chess. Scrumptious sushi rolls are sure to please and live entertainment nightly makes for the perfect nightcap. Located in the Grand Hyatt Kaua‘i Resort. Call (808) 240-6456. THE SHOPS AT KUKUI‘ULA The Shops at Kukui‘ula has become known as the premier dining destination on Kaua‘i for its selection of casual and fine dining experiences in a beautiful plantation style setting. Merriman’s Fish House and Eating House 1849 feature renowned Hawai‘i Regional Cuisine Chefs Peter Merriman and Roy Yamaguchi while Tortilla Republic and Dolphin Sushi bring contemporary flair to Mexican and seafood cuisine. Casual options include Bubba Burgers, Living Foods Market & Café, Merriman’s Gourmet Pizza & Burgers, and TR Taqueria & Margarita Bar as well as local favorites Uncle’s Shave Ice and Lappert’s Hawai‘i. Check out the weekly Kaua‘i Culinary Market, Wednesdays, 3:30 to 6pm, with a cooking demo at 5pm. Visit theshopsatkukuiula.com. KAUA‘I TRAVELER

PHOTO COURTESY: (LEFT) KAUAI GRILL / DANIEL LANE; (RIGHT) EATING HOUSE 1849

FLAVORS OF KAUA‘I

TIDEPOOLS HAWAIIAN-STYLE Ahh, the romance of a tiki-torch lit dinner in thatched roof bungalows floating above a koi-filled lagoon. Here you’ll find stellar service and contemporary Hawaiian cuisine featuring the freshest of fish and succulent steaks crafted with a distinct island flair. Free valet parking for diners. For reservations call 808 240 6456 or book online at opentable.com. gra nd hyatt kaua‘i resort & s pa | 157 1 P O I PU ROA D | KOLOA , H I 96756

TASTE TIDEPOOLS For the ultimate in ambiance, Tidepools is the place. With a backdrop of waterfalls, these thatched roof hale seemingly float above koi filled lagoons providing a distinctive open-air setting in which to savor contemporary Hawaiian style cuisine. Diners rave about the fresh island fish and steak options including macadamia nut crusted mahimahi, grilled opah, organic steak, or Hawaiian salt and garlic rubbed prime rib. Salads feature fresh island-greens and the desserts are luscious. Don’t miss this delightful experience. Located in the Grand Hyatt Kaua‘i Resort. Call (808) 240-6456. LĪHU‘E KUKUI’S Features a Pacific Rim gourmet buffet in an outdoor setting, plus American and local specialties. Open daily for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Located poolside at the Marriott Kaua‘i Beach Resort. Located at 3610 Rice Street. Call (808) 245-5050. WAILUA - EAST SIDE KOREAN BBQ RESTAURANT Authentic Korean food with great Korean BBQ like galbi, chicken and pork served with soup, kimchee, vegetables and rice. Delicious Korean plates like shrimp tempura, Korean chicken, Mahi or meat jun (marinated

mahi or ribeye dipped in egg and fried), bi bim bap (rice bowl with veggies and your choice of meat) and favorites like katsu, fried rice, noodles and dumplings all reasonably priced. Open Mon.-Sun. 11am-9pm. Kinipopo Shopping Village in Wailua. 4-356 Kuhio Hwy Building #E. (808) 823-6744. NAUPAKA TERRACE Inspired by the natural beauty of the Garden Island, Kauai Beach Resort creates unforgettable dining experiences that delight your senses. Indulge in delicious island specialties, fresh seafood, refreshing tropical drinks and live music as you gaze at the coastline and sparkling ocean. Dine on island cuisine at Naupaka Terrace, one of the top restaurants on Kaua‘i, enjoy a poolside snack at Driftwood Bar & Grille, and enjoy refreshing drinks and island music nightly at Shutters Lounge. Located at the Kauai Beach Resort. Call (808) 245-1955. NORTH SHORE MAKANA TERRACE Overlooking magical Hanalei Bay and Makana Mountain is the main dining room at The St. Regis Princeville Resort, Makana Terrace, the perfect venue for sophisticated casual all day dining. The menus showcase the freshest Hawaiian grown produce

flawlessly represented in the dishes prepared by the Executive Chef and his culinary team. On Wednesdays, The Mailani dinner experience captures the essence of Halele’a, through chant, hula and storytelling. Journey with us overlooking Hanalei Bay as we reveal the mystery of this special place. Mailani, is an elegant Hawaiian dining experience that honors the culture and traditions of Kaua’i. Dinner Thursday-Monday, Wednesdays for Mailani, Dinner Show. Located at The St. Regis Princeville Resort. Call (808) 826-2746 for reservations. KAUAI GRILL A comfortable yet elegant hideaway—signature Jean-Georges sophistication realized far from home. Sweeping views of Hanalei bay and Bali Hai surround Kauai Grill, the latest in creative dining experiences from Michelin awarded Jean-George Vongerichten. Kauai Grill combines a curated selection of Jean-Georges’ greatest appetizers, side dishes and accompaniments from his portfolio of domestic and international restaurants around the world with the highest quality of meats and freshest local fish available. Simply grilled preparations accompanied by bold condiments anchor the Kauai Grill experience at The St. Regis Princeville. Open Tuesday-Saturday 6pm-10pm. For reservations call (808) 826-9644.

KAUA‘I TRAVELER

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WHAT WE LOVE NOW JUICY GOODNESS

Sip scrumptious, fresh-pressed juice in tropical flavors at Living Foods Gourmet Market and Café. The recent addition to the popular market, The Juice Bar, is just what the South Shore establishment needed to add even more delicious, healthy dining options to the menu. Try a “Hawaiian Glow” and shine inside and out with its good-for-you and ‘ono (yummy) blend of coconut water, pineapple, cucumber, spinach, kale, and ginger. There’s no better way to start your day, or replenish your nutrients and rehydrate after an adventurous day out in the sun. Or if you are feeling a little run down from traveling or feel a cold coming on, then Jet-Set is just what your body needs. Packed with a powerful vitamin C punch, this luscious blend of immune boosters like carrots, turmeric, orange, pineapple, lemon, and ginger will help knock those symptoms right out of the park. For even more of a beneficial boost and a mix of robust flavors, The Juice Bar offers invigorating shots like Pele’s Fire with fiery cayenne pepper, aloe, celery, green apple, raw honey, lemon, and ginger. Living Foods Gourmet Market and Café is located at The Shops at Kukui‘ula and is open every day from 7am to 9pm; the Juice Bar is open from 8am to 5pm. Visit ShopLivingFoods.com or call (808) 742-2323 for more information. 80

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STEVENSON’S SUSHI & SPIRITS Poipu’s luxury nightspot offers sweeping views, scrumptious sushi, inventive cocktails, tropical drinks, aged whiskies, cognacs and ports. Live music nightly featuring jazz, indie pop and more. Sushi rolled nightly 5:30-9:30pm. Live entertainment 8:00-11:00pm. Free valet parking for diners. For reservations call 808 240 6456 or book online at opentable.com. myhawaiitraveler.com gra nd hyatt kaua‘i resort & s pa | 157 1 P O IPU ROAD | KO LOA , H I 96756

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HAPPY MEAL Are you a burger aficionado? If so, a stop at Street Burger is an absolute must. The casual, yet upscale, urban-chic restaurant delivers a vast selection of nearly 20 specialty burgers made with 100% local, grass-fed beef from Makaweli Meat Company. Bite into a juicy, mouthwatering Frenchie with melted Brie, caramelized onions, garlic aioli, and arugula, served on a brioche bun from Passion Bakery at Kaua‘i’s newest Wailuä hot spot. The Rancher with tomato jam, grilled onion, aged gouda, perfectly fried egg and arugula is definitely worth mentioning, along with the Napa with Point Reyes Blue, Cabernet onions, port reduction and spinach. Pair a mile-high sandwich with one of five different salads like the Caesar with whole leaf romaine lettuce, homemade dressing, Parmesan, brioche croutons, and marinated white anchovies if you must have greens. And if you feel good fries go hand-in-hand with a good burger, then the Herbed Fries with parsley, thyme, rosemary, sage and sea salt or the Truffle & Garlic Fries with shaved truffle vinaigrette, toasted garlic and sea salt are just the thing. A side order of chickpea-beer battered onion rings served with silky buttermilk chive dressing makes it even better. All you need to accompany a truly scrumptious meal here is a cold glass of local or craft beer (you’ve got about 25 to choose from). You won’t find a selection of burgers quite like this anywhere else on the island, especially cooked to exquisite perfection on a woodfired Argentinian-style grill using a mix of local hardwoods like kiawe (mesquite) and guava. Pull up a chair at the “chef’s counter” and watch the action, or grab a seat outside and dine with a view with the gorgeous Kaua‘i mountain landscape, or take it to go and enjoy beachfront. Street Burger is located in Kapaÿa at 4-369 Kühiö Highway. Open 11am to 10pm Tuesday thru Saturday. Visit StreetBurgerKauai.com or call (808) 212-1555 for more information. 82

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PHOTO COURTESY: JASON PHILLIPS PHOTOGRAPHY

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WHAT WE LOVE NOW

YOUR TA S T E B U D S DESERVE A V A C AT I O N .

Enjoy local and responsibly sourced ingredients at all six restaurants,

as well as farm to table menus, legendary steak and seafood dishes, myhawaiitraveler.com light and healthy options, and of course, delectable desserts.

Kauai Marriott Resortâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s dining selections range from casual oceanside cocktails and snacks to true ďŹ ne dining.

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Most of us love sushi—and, most of us have probably never attempted to make it at home. The task seems too intimidating, and the technique and skills required are challenging to say the least. Sure you could make something edible, but then you have to call it something other than sushi. Not only does the rice have to be perfect (texture and seasoning), but also the roll needs to be just right so it doesn’t all fall apart when you pick it up (or slice it), not to mention the fish and visual appeal. But if you ever had a desire to learn to roll sushi, then the Grand Hyatt Kauaÿi Resort & Spa has just the class. This beautiful resort is offering The Art of Sushi class—a fun, entertaining course that teaches you everything from sushi basics like properly cooking rice to the ideal way of spicing up your tuna. Hawai‘i is famous for fresh seafood, so it only makes sense that some of the finest sushi chefs like Jay Ledee make their way to the island. Not only does Okinawan-born Ledee dish out some of the most melt-in-your-mouth rolls at Stevenson’s Library, he’s showing everyone else how to do it at home. You’ll get to create your own California 84

Rolls made with premium ingredients like fresh crab (no imitation meat here), and Spicy Tuna Rolls using the finest locally-caught ‘ahi (tuna) mixed to spicy perfection. The best part about the class is the opportunity to sink your teeth into your divine masterpieces, and savor the refreshing flavors with a glorious South Shore view to boot—it really doesn’t get much better than this for sushi lovers. If you are lucky enough to be on island when the sushi class is offered, don’t miss out on your opportunity to go home with more than a tan. Learn how to make sushi in a tropical setting from one of the best sushi chefs in Hawaiÿi, and then stay for dinner to get inspired to create your own specialty rolls at home. You can show off your newfound skills the next time you host a dinner party, and share a taste of your wonderful time on Kauaÿi—your friends can only be impressed. The Art of Sushi class is held every third Sunday of the month from 2 to 3:30pm at Stevenson’s Library at the Grand Hyatt Kauaÿi Resort & Spa located in sunny Poÿipü. Visit kauai.hyatt.com or call (808) 240-6434 to sign up. Space is limited. KAUA‘I TRAVELER

PHOTO COURTESY: DANIEL LANE

ROLL YOUR OWN

WHAT WE LOVE NOW TOP TAPAS

There’s a new restaurant on the block in Po‘ipü. Tapas at Kukui‘ula opened its doors earlier this year and it’s already receiving rave reviews. Executive Chef Kristen Yanagawa takes farm fresh ingredients and pairs them with local flair and a Pacific Rim essence. Kaua‘i’s own, Yanagawa, is a graduate of Kaua‘i Community College’s Culinary Art program and is a master at pairing local flavors with delectable Garden Isle ingredients. The Tapas Corn Beef Hashubi is a perfect example with housemade corn beef hash, panko-coated and fried to crispy perfection. The dish is served musubi style and finished with a homemade kabayaki sauce and Dijon mustard aioli. Chef Yanagawa really knows how to make a flawless marriage of simple and sophisticated dishes at this tastefully modern South Shore eatery located in The Shops at Kukuiÿula. There is so much to love about the menu with so many tempting options such as the Kiawe Roasted Kobe Meatballs with chickpea goat cheese salad and housemyhawaiitraveler.com

made Romesco, and 36-hour Char Siu Pork Belly with steamed bao, honey and mustard caviar. They also offer exquisite sangrias to pair with any dish including the Lychee Sangria, a white tropical cocktail made with Pinot Grigio, Parrot Bay Passion Fruit Rum, SOHO Lychee, fresh citrus fruits and juices, and Blueberry Sangria made with blueberries, Grand Marnier, SKYY Pacific Blueberry Vodka, blueberry purée, red wine, pineapple, orange and freshly squeezed lemon juice. Your tastebuds will dance with the eclectic array of delicious flavor combinations at this up-andcoming Asian and Hawaiian fusion restaurant. Tapas at Kukui‘ula is located at The Shops at Kukui‘ula in Po‘ipü. Open daily, 5pm to 9pm with a Happy Hour every day from 5pm to 6:30pm, as well as a Late Night Happy Hour on Fridays and Saturdays from 10pm to closing. Visit TapasKauai.com or call (808) 742-7117 to make a reservation. 85

INSPIRED BY THE VIEW The St. Regis Bar unveils new additions to their menu, incorporating The St. Regis Princeville Resort’s philosophy of utilizing fresh, local ingredients to create tantalizing dishes for guests to enjoy while delighting in the superior views of Hanalei Bay. This seasonal menu, which will be offered from April thru September, was created by Executive Chef Frederic Hoffman who drew inspiration from the mural hanging in The St. Regis Bar—using the colors and emotions evoked in the mural as his muse when creating new dishes. Menu items include the Garden Island Avocado Butter, which is a velvet-soft puree of locally grown avocados sprinkled with Hawaiian sea salt and served with freshly made garlic bread. The Assorted Pickles is a collection of salty green mango pickles, sour yuzu cucumbers, spicy pineapple, and sweet papaya pickles, pickled in elderberry adding a delicate florality to the papaya. Other items includes Kaua‘i Prawns, stir-fried and served alongside li-hing mui sundried pineapple slices, which take on the colors that can be found in a beautiful Kaua‘i sunset. There are also snacks to appease hunger between meals, like Local Sweet Potato and Cassava Chips. This assortment of local purple, yellow, and golden colored sweet potatoes are fried to crisp perfection and served with a house-made aioli of mango, chili, salt, garlic, and fresh lime juice. The Crispy Cauliflower is also very popular—cauliflower pieces are tempura battered, fried, and served with a sweet chili sauce and soshito peppers. In addition to the new food dishes, the cocktail menu at The St. Regis Bar is serving up fresh, seasonal drinks to quench your thirst for new flavor combinations. The Kïlauea is a blend of gin, Campari, and juice from locally grown grapefruit and limes, while the Kiawe cocktail features the bar's house-made, kiawe wood smoke-infused rum along with fresh lime juice and lilikoi syrup. For an exciting and delicious adventure, visit The St. Regis Bar and enjoy this exclusive menu while it is available, and don't forget to enjoy the view. The St. Regis Bar is located in the picturesque lobby of The St. Regis Princeville Resort. Bar service is offered from 3:30-11pm daily, with food service available from 5:30-9:30pm daily. 86

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PHOTO COURTESY: (MID/BOTTOM) DANIEL LANE

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WHAT WE LOVE NOW

RAINBOW OF THE SEA

THE BEAUTY OF MAHIMAHI ENDURES FROM SEA TO PLATE WORDS MARY TROY JOHNSTON

myhawaiitraveler.com

Have you ever seen a rainbow swimming in the water off the shores of Kauaÿi? If so, you have had your first introduction to mahimahi (very strong in Hawaiian). With its multicolored iridescence, mahimahi is a beauty and highly prized among fishermen and chefs alike. It is as if the aurora borealis (northern lights) has found a new home in the sea. Such are the fantastic tales Kauaÿi fishermen tell about their sightings of this resplendent fish. Once mahimahi leaves the water, its color dissipates. Surrendered beauty hardly dulls the desirability of this fish and its allure for seafood lovers. Mahimahi has an incredible range in cooking techniques. It takes easily to crusts, rubs and marinades. Whether prepared raw or cooked to medium, mahi maintains its excellent taste. Despite the fact mahimahi is a strong swimmer, its flavor is moderate to mild and the texture is refined, yet firm. It has the distinction of appealing to people who love to eat fish as well as those who tend to prefer meat. For most anyone, the lovely white flesh of mahi, correctly prepared, is hard to resist as it epitomizes clean eating. Kauaÿi boasts many purveyors of fresh fish, among the best, Foodland (Kapaÿa), Kilauea Fish Market (Kïlauea and Kapaÿa), The Dolphin Restaurant (Hanalei and Poÿipü), and The Fish Express (Lïhuÿe). The fish you buy at any of these places is almost certain to be recently caught. However, check to be sure 88

the mahimahi is firm, and not mushy. Fresh mahi should have translucent pinkish flesh and a bright red bloodline. Brownish or dull bloodlines mean the fish is old. The smell of a fresh fish is always certain proof. Local fishermen have their own way with mahi. Oyster sauce (from the Asian food aisle in most grocery stores) makes a fine marinade for the fish cut into bite sizes, almost in proportion to a large shrimp. Let the mahi rest in the oyster sauce for 15 to 20 minutes. Then, dip it into a bowl of flour and sauté on both sides in olive oil at medium heat until the crust is firm. When the crust is formed (think fried chicken), reduce heat to low, generously add minced garlic and scallions, and cover the pan until the steam finishes the cooking and softens the coating (a few minutes at most). Local fishermen are natural born chefs and tend to favor shoyu (soy sauce) marinades for this fish. On Kauaÿi, the ultimate mahimahi could well be the one destined for a fish taco. Paulino and Faun Hernandez own Al Pastor Tacos food truck in Kapaÿa, considered by many to be one of the best fish tacos on the island. Chef Paulino blends his Oaxacan food heritage with the best natural food resources of the island. A fresh caught fish is always part of the preparation. When it comes to mahi tacos at the food truck, they keep it au naturel with a little salt and pepper before grilling, served with a flavorful chipotle cream sauce. KAUA‘I TRAVELER

Chef Ron Miller of Hukilau Lanai restaurant fame boasts a lot of success in preparing mahimahi as the winner of the 2012 Kauaÿi Coffee Celebrity Chef Cookoff charity event by utilizing a spicy rub and searing the fish before nesting it on a bed of kabocha pumpkin purée. Chef Ron enthusiastically agreed to create a new signature recipe for a crusted mahimahi. His opinion is that mahi is best raw or cooked to medium, but he does not like to serve it medium rare. He also points out that mercury content is not an issue of concern with this fish, in part, because of unpolluted Kauaÿi waters but also because the fish tends to be a smaller size. He relies on local fisherman to catch mahi, usually ranging from 15 to 30 pounds, which they supply fairly regularly throughout the year. Aficionados of the Hukilau have come to know Chef Ron for his creative flair working with exotic ingredients and novel twists on the familiar, culminating in true flavors that retain their simplicity. Taste is never disguised—it is rather revealed. His shrimp-crusted mahimahi fulfills all of these expectations. The crust he creates utilizes a hint of shrimp that succeeds in delicately infusing the mahi. The classic French beurre blanc (literally white butter, with white referring to wine or vinegar) sauce is light, but decadent, and serves as a complement with a scant taste of acid, and the addition of tomatoes and ginger capture the flavor beautifully. Seeming to recall the colors of the rainbow, Chef Ron finishes with amaranth, a vivid purple microgreen, and sprigs of tarragon with yellow edible blossoms. myhawaiitraveler.com

Chef Ron’s Kaua‘i Shrimp-Crusted Mahimahi 8 ounces Kauaÿi Shrimp, peeled, deveined, and diced 3 tablespoons mayonnaise 1/2 cup fresh breadcrumbs, crust removed ¼ cup panko breadcrumbs 3/4 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon white pepper 1/8 teaspoon cayenne 1 tablespoon diced onion 1 tablespoon diced bell pepper 1 teaspoon chopped tarragon 1 teaspoon chopped basil 1 small egg 1. Mix breadcrumbs with mayo and egg, add the rest of the ingredients and pulse in the food processor until everything comes together. Do not purée. 2. Season a 6-ounce piece of mahimahi with salt. Take 3 tablespoons of the shrimp mixture and evenly coat one side of the mahi. Repeat this procedure with the rest of the fish. Dredge the crusted side of the mahi in panko breadcrumbs. Be careful, as it is a little tricky to keep the crust from falling off. Sear crust side down in a medium-hot pan with a tablespoon of oil. 3. When the crust is browned, flip over and lightly brown the other side. You may need to finish the fish in the oven, depending on the thickness of the filet. For the sauce 2 tablespoons dry white wine 1/4 cup water 1/4 cup diced fresh tomato 1/2 teaspoon peeled and grated fresh ginger 1 teaspoon diced shallots 1/4 cup cold butter cut in 1/2 inch pieces 2 teaspoons chopped fresh basil 1 pinch salt In a sauce pan over medium heat, sauté the shallots and ginger until translucent. Add the wine and reduce by half. Add the rest of the ingredients and reduce again by half. Turn off the heat and whisk in the butter. Taste for salt. Mahimahi is the fish that can be cooked in any manner of ways with complexity or simplicity, and embraces a rainbow of flavors. No matter what preparation you choose, mahimahi is bound to delight. 89

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HOT SPOT

THE DOLPHIN After working up an appetite spending a day at the beach or getting in some shopping cardio, a stop at The Dolphin Restaurant at The Shops at Kukuiÿula is a welcomed culinary experience packed with fresh local ingredients and friendly island hospitality. The Dolphin Restaurant offers just-caught seafood from Hawaiian waters, a world-class sushi lounge, and service that is second to none. Their relaxed, plantation-like ambiance will have you feeling like you’re in the Hawaiÿi of old as you partake in stunning romantic sunsets and dazzling ocean views. Lunch on their outdoor länai (patio) is elevated to a higher level as you take in the gorgeous sights and choose from the wide varieties of options. The crowd favorite, Calamari Burger, features a thick cut calamari steak that is breaded and deep-fried to a golden brown. Topped with organic greens, tomatoes, onion, and their tangy homemade tartar sauce, the Calamari Burger will satisfy any midday hunger. If you’re in the mood for a classic hamburger, their Bull Burger is a great 90

WORDS KRYSTAL KAKIMOTO IMAGES DANIEL LANE

option and features charbroiled ground filet mignon topped with mayonnaise, organic greens, tomatoes, onions, and a side of BBQ sauce. The Dolphin is also known for their yummy tacos during lunch—your choice of beer-battered fish or panko-crusted shrimp, fried, and served on warm flour tortillas with Kailani Farms Organic Greens, cilantro lime sauce, and sides of freshly made guacamole and salsa. Dinner at The Dolphin offers options to suit any mood. Their sushi bar creates some of the best sushi on the island using fish caught by local fishermen and high quality produce from local farmers with skillful precision. The Napali Roll features 100% real snow crab rolled with perfectly ripened avocado and crisp cucumber, topped with slices of local ‘ahi (tuna). For a sushi roll off the beaten path, their Stolen Roll features salmon wrapped with jalapeño slices, thinly shaved white onions, house-made spicy mayo, creamy avocado and cream cheese. The roll is tempura-battered, deep-fried, and topped with unagi sauce and chopped macadamia nuts. KAUA‘I TRAVELER

The Dolphin also offers tasty appetizers to begin your meal. “The Dolphin” Tahitian Poke begins with fresh fish and shrimp cut daily in the adjacent fish market. The fish and shrimp are mixed with a creamy coconut lemongrass sauce and spiced grape seed oil and served on a bed of gingered organic greens. For warm appetizers, The Dolphin offers steamed fresh artichokes and mushroom tops stuffed with a blend of butter, garlic, breadcrumbs, and parmesan cheese as well as deep-fried calamari served with their house-made cocktail sauce. When it’s time to choose your entrée, The Dolphin offers items from the land and sea with an emphasis on supporting local farmers, fishermen, and growers. Fish dishes at The Dolphin are carefully prepared to bring out the unique flavor in each type of fish rather than drown the fish in heavy sauces. The fresh catches of the day range from ono (wahoo), onaga (red snapper), opah (moonfish), and even häpuÿupuÿu (Hawaiian sea bass), which the flavor and consistency is compared to spiny lobster. The fresh catch is rolled in their special Cajun seasoning and charbroiled until blackened. But if you’re looking to try the locals’ favorite, the Teriyaki Ahi is your best bet. Marinated for 4-6 hours in their house-made teriyaki sauce, the ‘ahi is then charbroiled to mediumrare and served with a side of drawn butter. Their beef tenderloin and New York cut steaks are all cooked to your preferred specifications while the addition of lobster, king crab, teriyaki shrimp, or fried shrimp can be combined to create the perfect surf and turf meal. For those wanting a meatless option, The Dolphin also offers a Vegan Celebration Roast, which is an 8 oz. portion of Vegan Grain Loaf that is stuffed with Field Roast, butternut squash, apples, mushrooms, wheat, and seasonings. The Grain Loaf is charbroiled and served with a side of sweet and sour sauce or their teriyaki sauce. Entrées are served with a choice of asparagus wrap, baked potato, vegetable kabob, seasoned steak fries, or steamed white rice. The dessert options at The Dolphin Restaurant will tempt you to end your dinner with a sweet note. Some popular items include their Homemade Dolphin Ice Cream Pie, which is layered with banana, coconut, and macadamia nut ice creams on an Oreo cookie crust topped with chocolate sauce and whipped cream. The Hawaiian Butter Mochi is the family recipe of restaurant General Manager, Bryson Sugahara. The butter mochi has a soft and chewy center with a crisped crust and lilikoÿi (passion fruit) glaze. The dish is topped with a scoop of Kauaÿi’s own Lappert’s Vanilla Bean ice cream. Whether joining them for lunch or dinner, The Dolphin Restaurant has everything to create a meal for you to remember. The Dolphin Restaurant is located at The Shops at Kukuiÿula in Poÿipü. Restaurant hours are from 11:30am to 9pm; Sushi Lounge is open from 5:30pm to 9:30pm; and the Fish Market is open from 10am to 7pm. Call (808) 742-1414 for more information. For their original location on the North Shore in Hanalei, call (808) 826-6113. myhawaiitraveler.com

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CULINARY Q&A CHEF GUY HIGA

Born and raised on the islands, Guy Higa brings his local

sensibility and sense of aloha to his kitchens as the executive chef of the Kauaÿi Marriott Resort in Lïhuÿe. Originally from the island of Oÿahu, Chef Higa began working in kitchens when he was in the ninth grade as a dishwasher in a restaurant at the Hilton Hawaiian Village, and worked his way up the ladder in some of the most beloved restaurants in Waikïkï. After working at the historic Ilikai Hotel for nine years, Chef Higa received an opportunity to transfer to the Kauaÿi Marriott Resort. He took the opening to relocate to the Garden Island and has been at this grand beach resort for 30 years. After working as a sous chef at the different restaurants on property as well as in banquets, Executive Chef Higa proudly leads his culinary team that delivers delicious, fresh, and innovative dining experiences ideally located at the picturesque Kalapakï Bay.

WORDS KRYSTAL KAKIMOTO IMAGES DANIEL LANE

KAUA‘I TRAVELER

What were some of your first memories of food or cooking that had an impact on you as a person and chef? I remember watching both my grandmas cook, and remember the dishes they created with so much love and care. They cooked mostly Okinawan and Japanese food like kombu maki (pork wrapped with seaweed and greater burdock root), nishime (Japanese simmered dish of vegetables), and andagi (Okinawan sweet, deep-fried dough). How did you find yourself getting into the kitchen and beginning to cook? I began cooking really young. I’m the oldest of three children, and my brother and sister are about eight years younger than me. When we were hungry, I would just whip something up in the kitchen—simple things like tuna sandwiches or grilled cheese—just easy kinds of stuff for us kids.

So far, what has been some of your most memorable experiences at the resort? Thanks to the Marriott, I have been able to travel around the world and experience places like Dubai, Singapore, Hong Kong, and Japan doing promotions for Hawaiian food and also learning about the culinary scenes of other places. At the Hong Kong event in 2015, I was there for two weeks creating food for their guests and sharing the flavors of the islands. Every day, I would create two different dishes before crowds and have stations creating whole steamed onaga (red snapper), at least five different types of poke (cubed, raw fish), special sushi rolls and salads. I flew out my products and really enjoyed my time there.

As the executive chef of a large resort with many dining options, what does a typical day look like for you? I usually go down and check in with the guys at the breakfast buffet for a few hours to make sure that things are running smoothly and work with them there. After that, I’ll take care of my ordering for banquets, check food levels for daily service, and make sure production is getting done in the kitchens. Throughout the day, I will have event, catering, and management meetings and I also check in with each location. In your opinion, what do local ingredients add to a dish? You can’t beat the local produce and fish we have on Kauaÿi. The fish and Kauaÿi Shrimp cannot be beat. For me, one of the major benefits of using local ingredients is promoting local businesses, farmers, ranchers, and fishermen and contributing to the island economy. We are able to work with the vendors to specially create harvests for our needs or can see if they can source specific fish for dishes. How do you approach the process when creating a new dish? I usually start with an ingredient. Whether it’s produce, seafood, or meat, you have to have one main component in the dish, and I usually work around this creating sauces and layering flavors. I also take into account availability and seasonality of ingredients. What are some local ingredients you feel are second to none? Of course, it’s the local fish—fresh caught out of the ocean. We got ono (wahoo) and Kauaÿi Shrimp that we use. We even have a local fisherman getting amaebi (sweet shrimp) for the sushi bar that he catches off the coast of Niÿihau. We usually have at least three different local fish available on any given night. What would your dream dinner at the Kauaÿi Marriott consist of? My wife and I would spend the entire dinner at the sushi bar. We have a great lobster roll and it’s also fun to have the sushi chef create something especially for you. I also like nigiri sushi and stick to the basics like hamachi (yellowtail), ‘ahi (Hawaiian tuna), and unagi (freshwater eel). myhawaiitraveler.com

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SIPPIN' SUNSHINE REFRESHING, APPROACHABLE SUMMER WINES WORDS KRYSTAL KAKIMOTO

As the formality of life transitions to the carefree days of summer, goals of relaxing in beautiful, sunny weather shift to the forefront—and choosing the perfect wine to complement the season is a breeze. Whether enjoying a leisurely day at the beach or an impromptu picnic with friends, having the right wine in your glass can make any summer day extra special. Pinot Grigio is light and refreshing, which makes it an enjoyable option as the temperature rises and ideal for oceanfront dining. Although the grape’s origins lie in France, Pinot Grigio grown in Italy has won global recognition. This is especially true of those coming out of the northern regions near the Alps. The cool mountain climate helps the wine grapes retain their acidity resulting in a crisp Pinot Grigio with a vibrant stone mineral core and gentle florality. 94

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Roberto Viernes, Master Sommelier with Southern Wine & Spirits of Hawaii, recommends the 2013 Lagaria Pinot Grigio ($8.49/bottle; totalwine.com), which features the thirst-quenching flavors of lime, honeydew, and peaches against a pleasant mineral finish. When looking for a Pinot Grigio, Viernes believes the wine should ultimately be “bright and fruity with no hard edges or bitterness. It should be refreshing and gulp-able and it does not have to be serious or contemplated; simple enjoyment is Pinot Grigio at its best.” The Lagaria Pinot Grigio will pair beautifully with grilled shrimp and light appetizers making it a smart choice for a summer picnic or BBQ. If you’re looking for a wine with a little more intensity and zip, a glass of delicious Sauvignon Blanc will surely satisfy your palate during the summer months. Known for its racing acidity and complex aromas ranging from herbaceous to ripe tropical fruits, Sauvignon Blanc will keep you interested from your first sip to your last. Although this international grape is famously grown in the areas of France such as Bordeaux and the Loire Valley, Sauvignon Blanc plantings in California have been increasing in recent years. Currently, one of the most popular white wines in the United States, Sauvignon Blanc is not only perfect for an apéritif, but also something to enjoy during the entire meal. Chuck Furuya, Hawaiÿi’s first Master Sommelier and co-owner of Honolulu’s Vino Italian Tapas and Wine Bar, suggests the 2014 Ancient Peaks Sauvignon Blanc ($13.99/bottle; wine.com) coming out of Paso Robles, California. Ancient Peaks Winery grows their Sauvignon Blanc out of the Margarita Vineyard whose soils are a blend of ancient sea beds, shale, rocky alluvium, granite, myhawaiitraveler.com

and volcanic rocks creating a rare complexity in the wine grapes. Ancient Peaks harvests their Sauvignon Blanc in four separate batches—the first pickings create a foundation of bright acidity in the wine while the later pickings offer richer tropical fruit flavors which result in a balanced wine that is both racy and ripe. Flavors of gooseberry, guava, and sun-ripened pineapple blend seamlessly to create the perfect wine to remind you of your favorite tropical getaway. The herbaceous notes of a Sauvignon Blanc will pair tremendously with fresh oysters served with a mignonette sauce or a roasted chicken dish with lemon and herbs. And if you’re looking to try something out of the norm, the Italian wine Gavi di Gavi is a perfect pairing for shellfish such as scallops or lobster. This Italian dry white wine is grown in the Provincia di Alessandria within the Piedmont region of Italy. Made exclusively from the Cortese grape, this wine has a moderate acidity and a light body. Lemon-like citrus shines through on the palate making it a wine that will match in delicacy of seafood while providing a palate-cleansing burst of citrus. One notable bottle to try is the 2014 Terre da Vino “Masseria dei Carmelitani” Gavi di Gavi ($11.99/bottle; klwines.com). This gentle wine has subtle aromas of citrus fruits alongside delicate blossoms delivering a nuanced wine sure to pair deliciously with a salad topped with fresh seared scallops or a grilled white fish. Whether unwinding with a refreshing glass of Italian Pinot Grigio, a complex swirl of American Sauvignon Blanc, or experiencing the unique Cortese grape, the rule of thumb is that summer wines should be three things: uncomplicated, refreshing, and simply delicious. 95

SWEET

PARADISE DIVINE CHOCOLATE MADE ON KAUA‘I WORDS CHRISTINE COTÉ

Chocolate is an ancient delicacy rich in legend and lore. And while it has evolved in form and variation throughout the years, chocolate has consistently stirred a culinary passion in the hearts of people from around the world. Made from the fermented, roasted and ground beans of the cacao plant, chocolate was originally consumed as a beverage. In ancient times, it was a bitter, frothy liquid that would be mixed with various spices, honey, wine or even corn purée. Certain cultures had great reverence for cacao, as they believed it had godly origins. Even the scientific name for the cacao plant, Theobroma cacao, is derived from the Greek word theos meaning god, and broma meaning food, roughly translating as food of the gods.

KAUA‘I TRAVELER

PHOTO COURTESY: (BOTTOM) GARDEN ISLAND CHOCOLATE

In fact, the Aztec people believed the seeds of the cacao plant were a gift from Quetzalcóatl, the god of wisdom. The seeds were seen to have such value, that they were used as a form of currency and cacao was also thought to give strength to those who consumed it. As this seemingly divine elixir found its way from the Americas to Europe, it evolved even further. By the 17th century, chocolate, now sweetened with sugar, was a fashionable drink in Europe that was thought to have nutritious and even aphrodisiac properties. In the 19th century, the use of melted cacao butter enabled chocolate to be moldable into the solid form we know and love today. In modern times, the chocolate industry crisscrosses the world from top cacao producers in places like West Africa and Indonesia to large confectionary companies located in countries like Belgium, Switzerland and the United States. It’s a complex maze of trades and exchanges where this ancient culinary treasure can lose its intimate and artisanal feeling. Luckily, deep in the Pacific, on the North Shore of Kauaÿi in Kïlauea, chocolatiers and owners of Garden Island Chocolate, Angie and Koa Kahili, run a cacao farm where the art of chocolate is practiced directly from farm to table. Created with the vision of making the world’s best chocolate, Garden Island Chocolate is a labor of love. As an avid farmer and father, Koa had a dream of sustainability and had always looked to the land and sea to support his wife and children. He believes that the organic gardens on the farm not only feed the body, but also enrich the soul. To Koa, healthy organic food, pure untreated water, and pristine ocean air is true wealth. Passionate about growing Kauaÿi’s cacao industry, Koa has helped many farmers around the island start their own cacao farms. He hopes to see Kauaÿi become a self-sustainable island with enough cacao trees to supply chocolate for all of the island’s residents to enjoy year-round. A wonderful and generous goal! The chocolatier couple has a wealth of knowledge about growing cacao and chocolate in general, which they share with visitors on their Chocolate Tour & Tasting. The 3-hour guided tour and educational adventure is an opportunity to visit the farm, where you’ll learn all about the cacao tree and see how chocolate is made. Embarking on the tour myself, I notice, as we walk around the grounds, how the land provides fertile ground for ingredients that are used in the company’s chocolate. Nutmeg and cinnamon trees grow harmoniously in the landscape and bee hives produce sweet and tasty honey. Even banana and coconut trees provide a canopy of shade which benefits the cacao plants. Every element of the environment, from the fruits, nuts, and spices to vanilla, serves a purpose. As we sample tropical fruits directly from the tree, it’s a special treat for those who have never tasted such exotic fruits before. The farm’s environment truly makes you feel as if you’ve traveled back in time to a tropical Garden of Eden where everything you need is at your fingertips. When we finish our walk, it starts to rain, so we head to a tented area for perhaps the most fun and certainly, the most anticipated part of the tour—a chocolate tasting! As we arrive, we’re given a delightful cup of hot chocolate, created in traditional Latin American style with fresh ground chocolate liquor, allspice, fresh coconut milk, local honey and vanilla beans from the farm. Angie explains the delicate process she goes through to hand pollinate the vanilla bean plant. She says this only happens in season, at specific hours in the day, in order to successfully produce the pure vanilla that’s used in the chocolate bars and hot chocolate. myhawaiitraveler.com

The first part of the chocolate tasting was my favorite as they let you sample their dark chocolate such as the 85% cacao bars mixed with fruits and nuts such as bananas and macadamia. It’s a dark chocolate lover’s delight! After the generous sampling of the mixed chocolate bars, you’re treated to a pure chocolate tasting. Even the pure chocolate bars have nuances of flavors as I notice subtle differences in certain blends from local growers or a soft hint of Tahitian vanilla. There’s even a chocolate affectionately referred to as the “love drug.” Guests are asked to smell and take in the chocolate’s aroma first before tasting it and to describe the delicate and varying flavors, as you would with wine. The extensive chocolate tasting is a chance to sample more than 20 different types of organic chocolate and they keep the percentages of cacao high (85%) to ensure the health benefits. We even tasted a chocolate called “Helen’s Criollo,” made with cacao sourced from a farm on the North Shore that belongs to an 89-yearold woman named Helen. About 10 years ago, Helen started growing cacao and she’s a regular supplier for the farm. During the tasting, you’re also taken through their chocolate production process. I learned how the farm first plants its cacao trees in a shaded area with companion plants, and then harvests the cacao once it’s ripe. The pods are then opened and the beans are scooped out and separated. The fermenting process, which is where the chocolate aromas and flavors are developed, is the most important step in making chocolate. It takes about a week to oxygenate the beans, before they are sun-dried for yet another week. The beans are finally roasted and cracked into nibs, and the process where the chaff is removed is called “winnowing.” Then, once the nibs are stone ground into chocolate, the vanilla beans and sugar are added during the mélange grinding process, which can take up to five days, according to the tour guide. Once all of this is done, the chocolate maker then goes through the process of tempering the chocolate and adding nuts and fruits, depending on the product, then pouring it all into molds that are cooled. The final part of the process comes when the chocolate is removed from the molds, wrapped in foil, packaged and boxed. In addition to taking a tour of the farm, tasting the company’s delicious chocolate, and discovering how chocolate is made, we also learned about the health benefits of chocolate. According to Koa, chocolate is a true superfood that contains the three essential components of food: protein, carbohydrates, and fat. He says they use a stone melangeur to grind the beans which preserves its medicinal properties, resulting in a retention of extremely high levels of antioxidants. As he explains, there are roughly 400 known chemicals in chocolate that create the flavor profile, and each person experiences chocolate in a different way. After visiting the Garden Island Chocolate farm, I know so much more about this delicious superfood and realize the amount of hard work and passion that goes into creating chocolate. All of the company’s gourmet Hawaiian chocolates are organic and grown on local farms, which is what makes Kauaÿi’s cacao industry so special. It’s an intimate, often family affair where an ancient delicacy is created through hard work, Hawaiian sunshine and a lot of aloha. 98

Kauai Chocolate Company is a family-run business located in the Port Allen Harbor town of ÿEleÿele, and a popular destination for tourists visiting the South Shore of Kauaÿi. A local favorite, customers keep returning for the shop’s best-selling, handmade Belgium chocolate treats. The Greer family was inspired by the movie Chocolat with its small European chocolaterie (a shop where chocolate is both made and sold). The boutique-style shop features chocolate made with Hawaiian-grown ingredients such as vanilla bean, tropical fruits and nuts. Upon visiting the store, the smells and sights of chocolate fills your senses. With a chocolate fountain displaying a cascade of liquid chocolate, one is easily reminded of the movie Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory. With child-like delight, you can taste free samples and then follow your imagination and desires by filling up your own box of chocolates with some of the store’s top sellers or your own personal picks. Their best-selling creation is their signature Opihi chocolates made with macadamia nut, caramel and shortbread cookie. Locals buy these signature chocolates for family and friends as gifts or for special celebrations. Other top choices are the Brick Bars, which are layered with toffee, caramel, chocolate and nuts; the robust Kauaÿi Coffee Brick Bar, or the Truffles filled with real tropical fruit, ganache and fondant. The Mango Truffle, made with mangoes grown by the shop owners themselves is utterly divine. For something deliciously different, you can try their Hot Cocoa Mix from an Ancient Mayan recipe that is created without any added sugar and spiced with peppers. For those fortunate enough to visit the shop, you’ll want to try their popular gourmet ice creams, infused with island ingredients like their sublime Vanilla Bean. It’s made with vanilla from vanilla bean plants that the owners take great care to pollinate themselves. The homemade Belgium Chocolate Ice-Cream made from an old-fashioned 1920s recipe is also a delicious discovery. For more information about Kauai Chocolate Company or to order their chocolates, visit kauaichocolate.us or call (808) 355-0448. You can also stop by their shop located in the Port Allen Shopping Center, which is open 7 days a week. Garden Island Chocolate makes exclusive, high-quality chocolate made from various cocoa bean varieties grown by farmers on the North Shore of Kauaÿi. Organic and locally crafted, their chocolates are sold in health food stores around the island. Some of the company’s best sellers are the Macadamia Nut & Coconut Chocolate Bar as well as the ÿAlaea Sea Salt Chocolate Bar, both at 85% cacao. For something really scrumptious, try their Banana Chocolate Bar, which is exceptional. For more information about Garden Island Chocolate or to book one of their popular Chocolate Farm Tasting Tours, visit gardenislandchocolate.com or call (808) 634-6812.

KAUA‘I TRAVELER

PHOTO COURTESY: (OPP. TOP/ KAUAI CHOCOLATE/ RENEE COTE; (OPP. BOTTOM) GARDEN ISLAND CHOCOLATE

THERE’S EVEN A CHOCOLATE AFFECTIONATELY REFERRED TO AS THE “LOVE DRUG.”

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namaste with aloha YOGA AROUND THE GARDEN ISLE WORDS JUDY TSUEI

There are some who believe that each of the Hawaiian Islands corresponds to the seven chakras, widely understood in yoga, meditation, and Ayurveda (the traditional Hindu system of medicine) as wheels of energy throughout the body that begin at the base of the spine through the crown of the head. Kauaÿi, as the oldest isle in the Hawaiian chain, is said to relate to the third eye chakra, which is associated with finding clear intuition and inspiration. Perhaps this is why many visitors and residents alike feel that Kauaÿi is a beautiful space to discover insights through meditation and movement, namely through the physical practice of yoga. There are innumerable benefits to practicing yoga outside from greater feelings of revitalization and increased energy to decreased tension, anger and depression. By moving one’s practice from a controlled studio environment to the great outdoors, studies have shown lower blood levels of cortisol, a hormone related to stress. And, because sunlight and invisible 100

negative ions coming off the surf have shown in research as factors in affecting mood and energy, exercising in nature does a body good. From a physical perspective, practicing yoga outside fosters greater proprioception, also known as your body’s ability to know where it is located in space, without having to look, as well as improving balance given uneven terrain, such as standing on the sand at the beach. Looking at the mental, physical and emotional benefits, practicing yoga outside also encourages greater inward focus when the surrounding elements are beyond your control and constantly changing. For those who prefer a classroom setting, the Garden Isle is home to many talented teachers and a broad array of studios and natural spaces. Teachers of all lineages and styles offer classes and private instruction all over the island. From the novice student to the expert yogi, everyone is invited to practice with aloha. KAUA‘I TRAVELER

NORTH SHORE Yoga Hanalei Located on the second floor of the Hanalei Town Center, Yoga Hanalei features over 30 classes each week in an open, airy yoga studio, complete with rope wall, mirrored wall, and a comprehensive prop selection. Owner Bhävani Maki is author of The Yogï’s Roadmap: The Patañjali Yoga Sütra as a Journey to Self Realization and now in her 39th year of practice, having started when she was nine. Maki received permission from teacher Sri K. Pattabhi Jois, creator of Ashtanga Yoga, and opened a studio on Kauaÿi to share such invaluable teachings from Jois, Yoga Master T. Krishnamacharya, and more. “I’ve never approached my studio as a business,” Maki imparts. “What’s unique to our studio is that our teachers come together as a school. Our mission and vision is to create a place of learning. We’re really teaching an integration of mind, body, spirit, and staying true to the original intent of yoga.” Yoga Hanalei features classes for all levels that weave in yoga psychology, meditation, pränäyäma (breath control), individualized support, physiology, alignment, and therapeutic teachings. The studio also offers a notable yoga teacher training program. “We’re a seasoned school that’s been here for a long time,” Maki says. “We don’t teach yoga as a workout, but as developing a system of personal care, health, and balance.” Metamorphose Yoga Metamorphose Yoga studio owner, Carolyn Dumeyer, has been a teacher for over 10 years, including at Yoga Hanalei with Bhävani. Having lived in Kïlauea since she moved to Kauaÿi in 2002 from California, she felt a desire to create more of a community in this town she adores. “Metamorphose has been here for four years,” Dumeyer recalls, “and it was created as a response to a need for a place that offers ongoing classes throughout the day with different styles and varieties. It’s close to my home and my community. This is where my roots are.” Students can enjoy a variety of vinyäsa flow classes for all levels and different ages in this intimate studio. Around 20 classes are available throughout the week, including therapeutic classes for rehabilitation and specialized practices; gentle, restorative classes in the evenings; familybased classes from parents with babies to teens; and more. Dumeyer believes that when on vacation, people are already out of their myhawaiitraveler.com

daily routine; so attending a yoga class is a wonderful way to dive deeper into the unwinding and unfurling that’s already happening. “Students can tune into the body to move residual stress that we harbor and carry in our day-to-day life. I have a lot of students who come in to do a mini-retreat, making classes a daily part of their vacations. We also have a lot of families who come practice together—spouses, mothers, grandparents—it’s a wonderful bonding experience to do as a family.” “All the studios on island truly do wonderful jobs,” Dumeyer adds. “What sets us apart is that we make the classes feel appropriate to the student and where they are. Our goal is to make yoga a positive experience, to make everyone feel welcome and supported, so our teachers are very encouraging and offer a lot of hands-on attention. We’re a much smaller, more intimate studio, so we really get to know our students; and our steady community is very gracious, taking the time to connect and chat with one another and especially with visitors. I’m really proud of our community that we’ve created here.” Pineapple Yoga Located in the Parish Hall in the heart of Kïlauea in what was once a Buddhist Church, Pineapple Yoga is led by authorized Ashtanga teacher, Eagle, in the tradition of Sri K. Pattabhi Jois of Mysore, India. Once a professional world champion racquetball player, Eagle endured a car accident that eventually led to a 360-degree spinal fusion surgery. This injury eventually became the gateway to working with breath, meditation, visualization, and yoga. Pineapple Yoga began in 2001 and offers a community class six days a week (Mon-Sat) from 7:30 to 9:30am in the Mysore style, with rest days (no practice) on Sundays, Full Moon, and New Moon Days. Students learn the traditional sequence of asanas (postures) on an individual basis in a group setting. “Mysore Style is what Pattabhi Jois taught for 70 years in a row in India,” Eagle shares. “Each person is practicing individually at their pace with one-on-one soft spoken instructions. Everyone in the room might be going to a different place in the series. In yoga, this is the safest place in the room, because no one is having to hurry up or slow down to anyone else at any point in time.” Twenty-five to thirty students regularly enter this quiet temple environment, filled with intention and freshly picked flowers. Asanas are 101

taught in a progressive system, each building strength and stamina, to develop students for the next asana. Students memorize the sequence, and each student is given their practice according to their ability. “As fixed as the Ashtanga system is,” Eagle observes, “the fixed counts of Vinyäsa means there is a principle, knowing when to inhale and exhale. It’s clarifying and has an aspect of meditation. This is a place where you can remove thinking, remove doubt, remove the fearful mind.” EAST SIDE Kauai Power Yoga One of the newer studios on island, Kauai Power Yoga is located in Kapaÿa on Kühiö Highway. Owner Jessica Stein opened her doors in May 2014 to offer heated power Vinyäsa yoga, specifically in the Baron Baptiste tradition. Classes are held daily in a heated room, between 9395 degrees. “Our heat system modulates humidity and breathability, so the room is very breathable. Most classes are an hour and there’s one on Sundays that’s the traditional 90-minute Journey Into Power Baptiste flow that goes through a set of 53 postures.” Baptiste’s tradition allows for a vehicle of transformation of your life, physically and personally. The five pillars of Baptiste Power Yoga are ujjayi (breath), Vinyäsa (flow), tapas (heat, both internal and external), bandhas (energy locks), and drishti (focus, vision, practice). “I often get asked, ‘What about beginners?’ or ‘I’m not flexible enough,’ or ‘I’m brand new to yoga, so I’m not sure about the heat,’” Stein adds. “I encourage people to come as they are, open to having fun and possibility. There’s a really great community and always a way to modify the practice to leave feeling empowered.” Stein’s studio also encourages keiki (youth) to attend. As someone who used to teach keiki yoga for years with a special Yoga Ed certification that allows her to teach in public schools, Stein believes in supporting youth to move into the practice and form community whatever age they are. WEST SIDE Kalaheo Yoga Sandra Carothers began Kalaheo Yoga as a studio that offers gentler, alignment-focused, therapeutic classes. “Yoga is for everybody,” Carothers believes. “And, it will benefit every body. It’s an experiential thing, so I encourage students to come in with a willingness to give themselves the gift of this practice.” Her studio features certified B.K.S. Iyengar teachers and Iyengarstyle classes, which means that the space is fully equipped with all required props. Now in her 60s, Carothers regularly teaches students all the way into their late 70s, as well as any student seeking stability, flexibility, grounding, and a learning of how to become more balanced and connected. With up to 26 classes on her schedule, visitors often come from the South Shore, as Kalaheo Yoga is the only studio near Poÿipü. “If people just try it once, they’ll love it,” Carothers encourages. “Yoga is simply about breathing and connecting. There’s no prerequisite for yoga and nothing you need to bring other than coming in with a willing heart. You’ll leave feeling better.” Yoga is a complementary practice for all the adventures Kauaÿi offers, especially the journey inward. For whatever style you prefer, whether in a studio or in nature, practicing yoga or meditating in such inspiring surroundings, you can ultimately deepen your sense of gratitude and awe—both on and off the mat. 102

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DESTINATIONS

EAST KAUA‘I

THE ROYAL COCONUT COAST

The East Side of Kaua‘i is often referred to as the Royal Coconut Coast. Appropriately named, considering the royal history and the abundance of ancient coconut groves from Wailua to Kapa‘a. Back in the 1300s, this area was called Kawaihau (the ice water), and it was the location of choice for Hawai‘i’s royalty. Kawaihau is mainly divided into four areas: Wailua, Kapa‘a, Waipouli and Ke‘alia. The kings chose Wailua to be the capital of Kaua‘i. High chiefs believed that the area around the mouth of the Wailua River was sacred and called it Wailua Nui Hoano or Great Sacred Wailua. This sacred area extended two miles up the Wailua River. Seven heiau (shrine) were built in an arc from the shores of Wailua up Mount Wai‘ale‘ale ending on the Westside of Kaua‘i. Royalty would come to Wailua from the neighboring islands to give birth at the birthstones of Holoholok‘u. When a king was born, a kahuna (priest) would take the child up the mountain to a bell stone. He would strike the bell stone with a rock, sounding the birth of a new king. No commoner was allowed in this area unless they were servicing a chief. You can view the birthstones and five different heiau at the Wailua River State Park. Please remember that this is a special place of worship and needs to be treated with respect. Do not leave offerings or move any rocks. Below the Wailua River State Park is Lydgate Beach. Two rock-lined seawater pools make it a haven for year round swimming. Above Wailua Park is Wailua homesteads. Here you will find many hiking trails and 103

freshwater swimming holes. Waipouli (dark water) is a little town between Wailua and Kapa‘a. Before all of the commercial development, Hawaiian royalty used this area to set sail to other locations in the Pacific. Due to the sudden popularity of fractional ownership, Waipouli is now a mile-long strip of shops and modern conveniences. Old Kapa‘a Town is the remnant of an old plantation town. Most of the buildings have been renovated and filled with boutiques, bars and restaurants, making Kapa‘a a hip little hot spot. Although, there are many beach parks in the area, be very careful about swimming here. The East Shore is best known for fishing, and the rocky shoreline can be very dangerous during high tide. As the locals say, “Never turn your back to the ocean.” If you’re driving north from Kapa‘a town, you will come across a large crescent shaped, golden sand beach called Keälia. The Kapa‘a Stream flows across the south end of the beach. You may see kayakers paddling in the stream or people rinsing off after a salty dip in the ocean. The area around the beach was once a 2,000-acre sugar plantation. Today, in an effort to preserve our agricultural past, Plantation Partners have converted the area into the largest agricultural subdivision on the island. Today the Coconut Coast is lined with newly renovated resorts, spas, condominiums and residences. They provide a getaway for travelers from around the globe. KAUA‘I TRAVELER

SAND + SURF

HIT THE BEACH KAWEONUI (SEALODGE) BEACH

This pocket of white sand beach backed by cliffs is a great place to snorkel and see honu in calm ocean conditions or just be secluded from the rest of the world. Beware of dangerous entry and currents. Offshore is a surf break known as “Little Grass Shack.” Located off Kamehameha Rd. Access beach from the trail at Building A at the SeaLodge Resort.

KĒ‘Ē BEACH

NORTH SHORE ‘ANINI BEACH PARK

This beautiful white sand beach has one of the largest coral reefs in Hawai‘i and has some of the best snorkeling in Kaua‘i for all levels. Swimming is among the safest in the North Shore, and a good place to learn how to windsurf. You can see magnificent sunsets from here. Grills, camping, restrooms and showers are available. No lifeguards. Located off Kühiö Hwy. Turn west on second Kalihiwai Rd between 25 and 26 mile markers. Take ‘Anini Road to beach.

HĀ‘ENA STATE PARK

This long stretch of white sand beach with a protective coral reef is a great snorkeling spot with a variety of colorful tropical fish when the water is calm. This is also a great place to beachcomb, surf, windsurf and fish. You can explore nearby sea caves carved out more than 4,000 years ago when the sea was higher. Camping, showers and restrooms are available. Located at the end of Kühiö Hwy.

HANALEI BAY

One of the most majestic places on earth, this spot is also a great place to learn to surf, frolic in the water, jump off the pier, or just enjoy the incredible scenery. The sunsets are spectacular and the moonlight over Hanalei Bay is magical. There are four beach parks included in the two-mile sandy crescent shaped bay, and all have lifeguards on duty except Waikoko Beach. Black Pot Park is located next to the Hanalei River mouth, with tropical foliage along the river’s edge, and is a local gathering place with a variety of water activities. The Hanalei Pavilion Beach Park is a popular spot for picnics. The water is generally calmer near the pier. Wai‘oli Beach Park is near the center of the bay, set in an ironwood grove. Waikoko Beach is located on the westernmost section, and is protected by Waikoko Reef, so it’s popular with snorkelers and families. Picnic area, tables, pavilions, grills, showers and restrooms are available. Located off Kühiö Hwy in Hanalei. Access beaches off Aku Rd or Weke Rd. 104

KA‘AKA‘ANIU “LARSEN’S” BEACH

This long, narrow ribbon of sand and shallow reef lies at the foot of a series of low hills and pastures. A protecting reef offers excellent snorkeling for the experienced, but only when the ocean is calm. Poor visibility in the water can occur in the late summer. Beware of its rocky bottom and dangerous rip currents, and stay away from the channels. This secluded beach is also a good place to beachcomb and fish. There are two small pockets of sand on the opposite side of Pakala Point. No lifeguard and no facilities. Located off Hwy 56 near the 20-mile marker, take Ko‘olau Rd. Take the left Beach Access Rd. to the end. Walk through the gate and follow the trail down.

KALIHIWAI BEACH

This wide sandy beach fringed with ironwood trees at the head of scenic Kalihiwai Bay is popular with boogie boarders and beginner surfers. Swimming is generally good in the summer. One of the nicest surfing breaks on the North Shore in the winter brings the more experienced out to this beach. Wide, shallow sand bar enables body boarders to ride decent waves in the front part of the beach. High surf periods create dangerous swimming conditions. Located off Kühiö Hwy west of Kïlauea on Kahihiwai Rd.

KAUAPEA “SECRET” BEACH

This exquisite, long and wide sandy beach with great views of Lighthouse Point is stunning. Swimming and snorkeling can be good when the ocean is calm. Swimming can be hazardous, so observe the ocean before entering. Look for the small waterfall flowing over the side of the cliff. You can see Moku‘ae‘ae Island, which is a bird sanctuary. Located off Kuhio Hwy on the same turnoff as Kalihiwai Beach. Take a right onto the first dirt road, drive to the end of the road and park. The hike down takes about 10-15 minutes.

The Thornbirds and Lord of the Flies were filmed at this exquisite and very popular beach. With views of the Näpali Coast, it is great for snorkeling and swimming in the protected lagoon in calm conditions. Snorkelers and scuba divers can expect to see teems of tropical fish and honu (green sea turtles) on calm, clear days. Stay inside the reef for calmer waters. Beware of strong currents and dangerous waves breaking on rocks and ledges. The currents are deceptively strong even on days when the water looks calm, so it’s best to stay in the reef-protected lagoon. The beach gets crowded with hikers and beachgoers, so get there early for a parking space. You may want to stay for the magnificent Näpali sunsets from the point. The trailhead for Kalalau Trail is from here. Bathrooms and showers are available. No lifeguards. Located at the end of the road on Hwy 56.

LUMAHA‘I BEACH (BALI HAI)

One of the most stunning and most photographed beaches in Kaua‘i, it was made famous as the location for the movie South Pacific. This large, wide beautiful golden sand beach is popular with a background of verdant foliage cliffs. Swimming is not recommended here, since there is no protective reef barrier to guard you against the tumultuous sea. Dangers include powerful waves sweeping up unsuspecting beachgoers off the rocks into the sea, strong undertow and dangerous shorebreaks. It’s a great beach to sunbathe and take in the incredible scenery. Access to the western part of the beach is located off Hwy 560 at Wainiha near mile marker 5. The eastern part of the beach is separated by a lava rock of Lumaha‘i is Kahalahala Beach. In calm conditions (summer), this beach can be a picturesque beach to swim in crystal clear warm water and explore the tidepools. No facilities or lifeguards. Park in the dirt parking lot. To access, hike down a steep jungle trail from the top of the lookout.

MĀKUA “TUNNELS” BEACH

This is one of the best snorkeling beaches due to the wide-fringing reef with a huge variety of fish swimming around in the shallow inner and outer reefs. The exceptional beach is surrounded by gently sloping sand and is well protected with incredible mountain scenery popular with swimmers, surfers, windsurfers and beachcombers. The best snorkeling is in the center by the crescent shaped reef. Scuba divers can explore the underwater caverns near the shore. Beware of sharp reefs, rip currents and dangerous water conditions. No facilities at this beach, but the facilities at Hä‘ena State Park are nearby. Lifeguard on duty. Take one of two dirt roads off Hwy 56 north of Hanalei near the 8 mile marker. KAUA‘I TRAVELER

MOLOA‘A BEACH

Surrounded by rolling hills, this beach is secluded and off the beaten path, with a wide crescent shaped sandy beach perfect for couples to catch a spectacular sunset or sunbathe, swim, snorkel and beachcomb. Be cautious of dangerous water conditions. The southeast side of the beach offers the best swimming and boogie boarding with plenty of shade. The beach is located where the Molo‘a (matted roots) Stream feeds into the bay. Located off Ko‘olau Rd. between mile markers 16 and 17. Take the narrow Moloa‘a Rd. to the end and follow the signs to the beach.

NĀPALI COAST PARK

About a two mile hike down from the Kalalau Trail is Hanakäpï‘ai Beach. The beach is beautiful but dangerous to swim. A difficult two mile hike inland near the stream leads to the waterfalls and a spectacular pool. Kalalau Beach is a long and wide sandy beach backed by sand dunes, located at the end of the trail (9 additional miles). There are other beautiful pristine beaches such as Miloli‘i Beach and Honopu Beach in the park, but they are only accessible by boat. Swimming and wading is dangerous due to strong currents and powerful waves at all the beaches in this awe-inspiring park. Camping is allowed with a permit. No lifeguard on duty. Access the beach from Kalalau Trail from Kë‘ë Beach at the end of Hwy 56.

PALI KE KUA (HIDEAWAYS)

Two beaches separated by a rocky point both have excellent snorkeling with a variety of tropical fish when the water is calm. Check ocean conditions carefully before entering for rip currents and do not enter when there is high surf. The large false kamani trees offer shade on the bed of coarse sand. People are scarce due to limited parking and hidden trail. Located off Ka Haku Rd. Take the path next to Pu‘u Poa tennis courts just before you reach the Princeville Hotel gatehouse and hike down to the beach.

PU‘U POA BEACH

Protected by a narrow reef offers great snorkeling with teems of colorful fish in crystal clear water. Safe when the surf is not high. The sandy beach is located directly below Princeville Hotel. Park at the small public parking lot. Take the beach access steps by the guardhouse at the hotel entrance.

QUEEN’S BATH

Nature’s wonder of a large crescent tidepool at the edge of the ocean created in an old lava shelf becomes a large fantastic swimming pool to enjoy when water is calm. Do not enter when the water is not calm. It is very dangerous during the winter months and high surf and should be avoided at these times. It will be difficult to find during high surf. The trail is located where Punahele Road and Kapiolani Loop meet. Follow the trail off Kapiolani Rd. The trail will pass a seasonal waterfall and lead to the lava-fringed ocean. Walk towards the left and look for the horseshoe shaped lava shelf.

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WAIAKALUA BEACH

A fabulous secluded beach with a long, fringing reef and shade along the sandy beach. Snorkeling and swimming can be good if the ocean is calm. There is a cool freshwater stream at the far end of the beach. Beware of dangerous rip currents, surges and high surf. Located off North Waiakalua Rd. Before the road ends, take the dirt road on the left side all the way to the end. Take the trail to the left and it’s the beach on the left. The beach on the right, past the Kepuhi Point is Waipakä Beach.

EAST SIDE ‘ALIOMANU BEACH

Pretty sandy beach shaded by ironwood trees and fringed by one of Kaua‘i’s longest reefs, this beach is a favorite of locals for gathering seaweed and spearfishing. Swimming can be safe in the lagoon when calm. Located off Kühiö Hwy on Aliomanu Rd.

ANAHOLA BEACH PARK

Grassy park with a beautiful sandy beach with good swimming conditions most of the time in the cove on the east side of the bay due to a large protective reef offshore. Snorkeling is good at the nearby reef; fishing and beachcombing are also good. The beach used mostly by locals is good for boogie board, body board and surf south of the old pier. The ironwood grove offers shade. Picnic tables, restrooms and showers are available. Lifeguard on duty. Located off Kühiö Hwy on Anahola Rd.

DONKEY (KUMUKUMU) BEACH

A fantastic long sandy beach in a cove at the base of a pasture named Donkey Beach because of the herd of mules that rested on the beach in the early plantation days. The waves draw in many surfers but it’s not a good beach for beginners. The winters yield high surf making swimming dangerous. Beware of steep entry,

dangerous shorebreaks, strong currents and rocks submerged in the surf. Snorkeling can be good in a secluded cove north of the stream and over a small hill. No facilities or lifeguards. Located north of Kapa‘a ~ 1/2 mile north of the 11 mile marker off Hwy 56. Parking lot is at the top of the path to the beach. Hike 10 minutes to shoreline and take right for the beach; turn north and walk past the stream for the secluded cove.

FUJI BEACH (BABY BEACH)

Protected shallow section in the reef by a long, natural breakwater makes it a great place to have some water fun with the kids while you soak up the sun on the sandy beach. No facilities or lifeguards. Located off Kühiö Hwy behind the Chevron in Kapa‘a.

KEĀLIA BEACH

A long, exquisite sandy beach with powerful waves makes it a great spot to watch experienced surfers and boogie boarders. Swimming can be done on calm days at the far northern end of the beach, which is protected by breakwater, but be careful of strong currents and sharp reefs. Public parking. Lifeguard on duty but no facilities. Located off Hwy 56 near mile marker 10 north of Kapa‘a in Keälia.

LYDGATE STATE PARK

A scenic family beach that is very popular since it offers something for everyone including a park. There are two large lava pools great for children and offers safe swimming and snorkeling for beginners. Rock wall protects swimmers year-round and the ironwood groves provide shade. Kamalani playground has a wooden volcano; jungle gym and bright ceramic sea creatures adorn the playground. Picnic pavilions, grills, showers and restrooms are available. Lifeguard on duty. Located off Kühiö Hwy on Leho Drive just south of the Wailua River. 105

KALAPAKĪ BEACH

This is a beautiful sandy crescent-shaped beach with tranquil water and a great place to learn to surf on the offshore break with great views of pali in the bay. It’s a great place to swim when conditions are calm. Beware of strong rip currents during high surf. Located off Rice St. west of Lïhu‘e in front of the Kaua‘i Marriott Resort and Beach Club. Park in the public parking lot at the hotel.

LĀWA‘I (BEACH HOUSE) BEACH

Small sandy beach is popular with snorkelers when the water is calm for the variety of fish in the offshore reef. It’s also a popular surfing spot for the waves that break offshore. Surfing competitions are held regularly here in spring thru fall. The small pocket of sand disappears in times of high surf. Beware of seasonal strong currents. The beach is located next to the Beach House Restaurant off Läwa‘i Rd.

MĀHĀ‘ULEPŪ BEACH

A long, beautiful and romantic beach with mountain vistas is a two mile sandy strand along a reef-protected shoreline and high sand dunes. The beauty of this beach was captured in the movie Islands in the Stream where George C. Scott played Ernest Hemingway. It’s good for swimming only during extreme calm conditions. Windsurfing, beachcombing and shoreline fishing are popular activities. This is a sacred site for native Hawaiians and for endangered plants and species. No facilities and no lifeguards. Beach is closed from 7pm to 7:30am. Follow the cane road past Shipwreck Beach. Stop at the guard gate to get through.

NININI BEACHES

NUKOLI‘I BEACH

Beautiful long narrow stretch of beach with shallow bottom offers an array of water activities. The beach stretches for miles to Lydgate Park swimming and snorkeling can be good in the well-protected reef and shallow waters when surf is calm. Fishing and surfing are also good here. Check ocean conditions before entering. There are more secluded beaches further north near Wailua Golf Coarse. Located at the end of Kaua‘i Beach Drive.

WAILUA BEACH

Long, wide golden sand beach near the Wailua River is good for taking a stroll or watching the experienced boogie boarders, surfers or watching the river flow into the sea. Swimming is dangerous due to strong rip currents and rough water. Children sometimes play near the river mouth when the currents aren’t strong. No facilities and no lifeguard. Located across from Coco Palms Resort. The beach is easily accessible when traveling north off Kühiö Hwy.

WAIPŌULI BEACH

A long stretch of golden sand without crowds isn’t good for swimming since the ocean is rough and the coastline is rocky or reef, but it’s a great beach to watch windsurfers and fishermen pull in their catch. The beach has lots of hidden coves for seclusion and can be 106

romantic. There is also a nice trail to jog while you take in the glorious scenery. Monk seals have been spotted quite frequently here. Located off Kühiö Hwy. There are many access points behind Coconut Marketplace.

LĪHU‘E & SOUTH SHORE BRENNECKE’S BEACH

A small sandy beach is popular with boogie boarders and honu. Waves tend to be bigger here in the summer than winter. Grassy area with picnic tables, showers and restrooms are available. Located on Po‘ipü Rd.

HO‘AI (PRINCE KŪHIŌ) BEACH

A beautiful sandy crescent shaped beach with water protected by an offshore reef great for keiki and novice snorkelers when water is calm. This beach is popular for the honu (green sea turtles) and local fishermen who frequent the beach. Restrooms and showers are available. No lifeguard on duty. Located off Läwa‘i Rd. in front of the Prince Kühiö Park.

HO‘ONA “BABY” BEACH

Great sandy beach for keiki (children) since the water is calm in a small cove behind off shore lava rocks. Access the beach using the walkway on Ho‘ona Rd. off Läwa‘i Rd.

Ninini Beach and Running Waters Beach are hidden and out of the way beaches with pockets of sand separated by a lava rock formation. Protected and secluded, the beaches are good for snorkeling on calm days. Park across the street from the Kaua‘i Lagoons Golf Course or the clubhouse parking lot and follow path to beaches. Between Kalapakï beach and the lighthouse on Ninini Point near the 13th green.

PO‘IPŪ BEACH PARK

Po‘ipü Beach in the county park is nationally ranked and popular because the sunny weather and calm water that surrounds the chain of beautiful wide, white sandy beaches. An offshore reef causes the waves to break before they reach the shore making it a keikifriendly beach. Swimming and snorkeling are great between the offshore reef and the coast while the breaking waves outside the calm waters create surfing and boogie boarding opportunities. The protected beach area is great for novice snorkelers. Dangerous water conditions can occur during periods of high surf. Beginning surf lessons are available as well as a nearby playground. Lifeguards, picnic tables, pavilions, showers and restrooms are also available. Located off Po‘ipü Rd. south of Ho‘owili Rd.

KAUA‘I TRAVELER

SAND + SURF SHIPWRECK (KEONELOA) BEACH

A lovely beach to sunbathe but not a good swimming beach due to dangerous ocean conditions is named for an old unidentified shipwreck. On the left is Makawehi Point where you will see fishermen surf casts and brave locals jumping into the sea as did Harrison Ford and Anne Heche from Six Days, Seven Nights. It’s a good beach for boogie boarding, surfing and windsurfing for the experienced. Showers and restrooms are available. No lifeguard on duty. Located in front of the Hyatt. Take public access road between the Hyatt and the Po‘ipü Bay Resort Golf Course.

WEST SIDE BARKING SANDS BEACH

SALT POND BEACH PARK

The protected reef in this pretty crescent shaped beach with lots of palms is great for swimming, snorkeling and beachcombing. Swimming is usually safe year round in the large lagoon and the sunsets are spectacular. Salt ponds are nearby where generations past made salt by evaporating seawater in red earthen pans and still do today. Please do not enter the salt-making area. The beach is also great for windsurfing, boogie boarding and exploring the tidepools. Lifeguard on duty. Picnic tables, pavilions, grills, camping, restrooms and showers are available. Located in Hanapëpë. Take left turn on Lele past town off Kaumuali‘i Hwy and right on Lokokai Rd. to park.

EDITOR’S NOTE: There is a wise saying in Hawai‘i, “Leave only footprints and take only memories.” Please take all your trash and don’t take anything that does not belong to you including those that belong to the sea. It’s best to leave your valuables at your hotel and not in your car, so the time can be spent relaxing and not worrying. Conditions change with the seasons, so take the time to evaluate the sea and read the beach safety. It is highly recommended to visit beaches with lifegauards on duty.

The beach is a continuation of the long white sand beach with superb vistas of Ni‘ihau and incredible sunsets. The name is due to the sound the sand sometimes makes when sliding down the 60’ high dunes along the beach but watch out for the thorns from the kiawe trees. Swimming is not recommended on this beach due to dangerous ocean conditions. Located between Kekaha Beach and Polihale Beach on the northern part of the Pacific Missiles Range off Kaumuali‘i.

KEKAHA BEACH PARK

This is the first beach of the series and is an exquisite long stretch of white sand with spectacular sunsets and many great surfing spots along the way. The beach offers clear views of Ni‘ihau. This area is almost always sunny and shade is absent. Picnic area, grills, pavilions, showers and restrooms are available. Swimming can be extremely dangerous. Lifeguard on duty. Located off Kaumuali‘i Hwy.

PĀKALĀ (INFINITIES) BEACH

The beach is picturesque and surrounded by lush tropical foliage and trees and a favorite spot for experienced surfers. This is not a good swimming beach due to murky water known for shark sightings and other dangerous ocean conditions, but it’s a great place to watch the locals surf and catch a magical sunset. The reef is called “Infinities” because it creates long perfect waves. Located by 21-mile marker off Hwy 50.

POLIHALE BEACH

The longest and widest stretch of beach in the Hawaiian Islands, this 7-mile white sandy beach is breathtaking and considered to be one of the most beautiful beaches in Kaua‘i. The name means, “a leaping off place for spirits” or “house of death”. The usually sunny beach is framed by the majestic Näpali Coast and has sweeping sand dunes that can get up to 100 feet high and you can catch amazing sunsets with views of Ni‘ihau. This remote area is a great place to stargaze. The only safe place to swim is in the Queen’s Pond where the fringing reef offers protection from the extremely strong currents when the surf isn’t high; beware of sharp coral. Picnic tables, showers and restrooms are available. No lifeguards. Camping by permit only. Located at end of Rte 50. Take left onto the bumpy dirt road and drive several miles. Follow signs to beach.

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CALENDAR

KAUA‘I EVENTS ONGOING ALOHA FRIDAY: MAKE A LEI, WEAR A LEI (Fridays) - Come and enjoy making fresh flower lei and learn the different methods of lei making. Materials are provided. Workshop in Waimea at West Kauaÿi Visitor Center. Free. For more info, call (808) 338-1332. LIVE MUSIC AT SHUTTERS LOUNGE (Everyday) – Live music entertainment is now 7 nights a week at Shutters Lounge at the Kauaÿi Beach Resort. Free. Sun-Thurs 7pm to 10pm, Fri. and Sat. 7pm to 11pm. Call (808) 245-1955 for more information. WAIMEA HISTORIC WALKING TOUR (Mondays) – Take a 2.5-hour walk back through time in the place where Captain Cook first landed in Waimea. Where the agricultural landscape changed from taro to rice to corn, watered by an intricate ditch system with a marvelous history dating back to the time of the legendary Menehune. Learn about the last King of Kauaÿi, the missionaries, and other famous citizens of Waimea along with the landmarks they left behind. Enjoy a taste of the past in one of the most historic towns in all of Hawaiÿi. Registration is required for participation and Special Group tours are available. Free. Call West Kauaÿi Tech & Visitor Center (808) 3381332 for more information. GROVE FARM MUSEUM TOUR (Mon., Wed., Thurs.) – Unhurried, 2-hour guided tours of the 100-acre Grove Farm site preserves one of Hawaiÿi’s sugar plantation buildings, furnishings and collections, surrounding orchards and pasturelands. This homestead was the center of operations for the developing sugar plantation and involved the relationship of family life, plantation activity, household work, gardening and farming and continues as part of the experience of visiting Grove Farm. Advance reservations are required (10am to 1pm). Fee: $20 for adults and $10 for ages 5-12. Call (808) 245-3202. KAUA‘I CULINARY MARKET (Wednesdays) – Taste your way around this one-of-a-kind Gourmet Farmers Market. Try the freshest, most tropical, tastiest fruits and vegetables you’ve ever had. Inhale the heavenly scent of flowers so gorgeous and fragrant they’re 108

otherworldly. Share the unbelievable flavors with friends and family with gourmet food gifts. A partnership with the Kaua‘i County Farm Bureau, the Kaua‘i Culinary Market is a farmers market not to be missed.Stay for dinner and shopping at the great retail shops and restaurants. Every Wednesday from 3:30pm to 6pm, cooking demo at 5pm. The Shops at Kukui‘ula in Po‘ipü. HANAPĒPĒ FRIDAY NIGHT FESTIVAL & ART WALK (Fridays) – Come join the festivity! Every Friday evening, Old Town Hanapëpë is bustling with fun and activity! With a wide variety of shopping, local crafters, several excellent restaurants, a dozen art galleries, stilt walkers, classics cars, live music and entertainment, there is always something for the whole family to enjoy! From 6pm to 9pm. Call Ed (808) 335-6469. KAUA‘I COMMUNITY MARKET (Saturdays) – New weekend value added farmers market hosted by the Kauaÿi County Farm Bureau and Kauaÿi Community College. Kauaÿi Community Market features a wide variety of locally grown fruit and produce, value added products like coffee, honey and goat cheese, plus culinary treats, breakfast and lunch items to eat at the market or take home. Learn ways to grow and prepare local foods, educational demos and garden tours held regularly. A great way to buy fresh and buy local, supporting Kauaÿi Grown products and Kauaÿi farmers from Hanalei to Kekaha. At Kauaÿi Community College front lawn and parking lot from 9:30am to 1pm. Free. Call (808) 652-3217. PRINCEVILLE NIGHT MARKET (May 8, June 12, July 10, Aug. 14) - Princeville Night Market is a monthly festival, held every second Sunday, featuring live music and local artisans at the Princeville Shopping Center. Discover 40+ local artisans as you walk around the grounds. Listen to live music from several different bands. Find pottery, paintings, photography, apparel, jewelry, wood workers and more! For more info, email PrincevilleNightMarket@gmail.com. SLACK KEY GUITAR & ‘UKULELE CONCERTS (Fridays & Sundays) - 2014 Hawaii Magazine Reader’s Choice Awards has rated this event

as the #1 Best Live Show on Kauaÿi. Enjoy a rotating series of traditional slack key guitar and ‘ukulele concerts in Hanalei at the Hanalei Community Center. This child-friendly indoor event also features cultural displays, local products for sale, storytelling and a free gift drawing. Fri. 4-6pm, Sun. 3-5pm; fee: $20 ($15 keiki, seniors and kamaÿäina). Visit McMasterSlackKey.com, or call Sandy (808) 826-1469. ART & WINE THURSDAYS (Monthly) – Held on the first Thursday of the month at Kauaÿi Beach Resort includes an art reception and wine tasting of thoughtfully selected wines. Enjoy with light appetizers of cheese, fruit and vegetable crudités. Cost is $15 per person. Includes a coupon for a 15% food discount at the Naupaka Terrace with the purchase of any dinner entrée. Kauaÿi Beach Resort (808) 245-1955. ‘OHANA DAY (Monthly) – The first Saturday of each month is ‘Ohana Day for family fun at the Kauaÿi Museum. Look forward to demonstrations, lectures and more during these special days. 10am to 5pm at the Kauaÿi Museum in Lïhuÿe. Free for kamaÿäina, and discounted for visitors. Call (808) 245-6931. KEIKI DAY AT NA ‘ĀINA BOTANICAL GARDENS & SCULPTURE PARK (May 21, June 25, July 30, Aug. 27) – Na ÿÄina Kai’s playday is a monthly event where you can enjoy quality time with your kids in the “Under the Rainbow” Children’s Garden. Kids can get wet and play in Jack’s fountain, explore the jungle tree house and discover the many child-friendly features of the Children’s Garden. Bring a towel, and be prepared to get wet. Outside snacks are permitted and reservations are recommended; $10/person (free for babies under one). For more info or to make reservations, call (808) 828-0525 or visit naainakai.org/keiki-day. KĪLAUEA ART NIGHT (May 28, June 25, July 30, Aug. 27) - Kïlauea Art Night is a monthly festival featuring live music, local artisans and trendy food trucks. Line up for pulled-pork sandwiches and fresh fish tacos, stretch out on blankets while listening to the band. Walk around the historic KAUA‘I TRAVELER

CALENDAR Stone building grounds to discover 40+ local artisans. Find pottery, paintings, photography, apparel, jewelry, wood workers and more! Email KilaueaArtNight@gmail.com for more info. MAY ANNUAL VISITOR INDUSTRY CHARITY WALK (May 14) - The Hawaii Lodging and Tourism Association Kauaÿi Chapter will host the 38th Annual Visitor Industry Charity Walk. The walk will start at 7am at the Historic County Building and take walkers through Lïhuÿe on a 2.9-mile route. The Charity Walk is open to the public and everyone is welcome to participate. All walkers should have minimum donation ($35) regardless of age, which includes food, fun and entertainment. Please note that no pets are allowed on the Charity Walk. For more info, contact George (808) 240-6452 or visit CharityWalkHawaii.org.

PHOTO COURTESY: BON FESTIVAL / DENNIS FUJIMOTO

BANANA POKA ROUNDUP (May 28) – A festive family event for young and old, this annual forest education fair combines education of Kaua‘i’s forest environment with good fun and Hawaiian music including games for kids, crafts, drawings, snacks, silent auction and a crowing contest. At Kanaloahuluhulu Meadow in Kökeÿe State Park, 10am to 3pm. Free admission with donations accepted. Call (808) 335-9975. JUNE 26TH ANNUAL TASTE OF HAWAII: THE ULTIMATE SUNDAY BRUNCH (June 5) - Taste of Hawaii was not only the first event of its kind in Hawaiÿi, it has consistently been a statewide favorite attracting more than 2,000 attendees annually. Voted the “Best Community Event” on Kauaÿi eight years running, the event will once again take place at Smith’s Tropical Paradise. With 40 chefs, 10 beverage vendors, and 14 musical acts, it’s an afternoon of endless food, drink, and dancing hosted by the Rotary Club of Kapaÿa. Visit TasteOfHawaii.com or call (808) 346-7095. JULY STARS & STRIPES FREEDOM CELEBRATION (July 3) –Pacific Missile Range Facility Barking Sands (PMRF) invites the general public to Stars & Stripes Freedom Celebration from myhawaiitraveler.com

5pm to 10pm. The event will be held on the grounds of Shenanigans restaurant. Popular Top-40 band Dishwalla will perform along with local entertainment. A heart-pounding fireworks display will then commence. Food, games and craft booths will be available throughout the event. Admission is free for this quality, family-oriented event. Guests can enter the base through the Kokole Point gate (adjacent to the county landfill) on Kaumualiÿi Highway beginning at 5pm. Watch for signs on the highway for directions. Free parking is available on base; all vehicles are subject to search. Seatbelts must be worn by all drivers and passengers of vehicles while on base. No outside food or beverages, coolers, tents, pets, weapons (including knives of all types) or personal fireworks allowed. All backpacks are subject to search and beach umbrellas can be used. This is a drug-free event. For more information on this event, please call (808) 335-4740. SOTO ZEN BON FESTIVAL (July 22-23) - Celebrate the local JapaneseAmerican culture as never before at the Soto Zen Temple in Hanapëpë. This event is the largest, grandest, and most colorful Bon Dance festival on the island. Experience traditions that have evolved in Hawaiÿi over five generations. Japanese folk dancing, live singing and taiko drumming, traditional festival foods and local fare. Game booths for children, cultural exhibits and displays. Join in the fun—all are welcome! Call Gerald (808) 346-4650 or visit KauaiSotoZenTemple.org. 31ST ANNUAL KOLOA PLANTATION DAYS (July 22-31) - Over 25 events celebrate the plantation heritage and modern-day vitality of South Shore communities of Koloa and Poÿipü during this 10-day, family-oriented festival. Each year, the festival brings visitors and residents together to learn about Koloa’s

multicultural history, experience a diverse range of local foods, culture and activities, explore the area’s unique ecology and archaeology, and enjoy the warm hospitality of the South Shore’s resorts, golf courses, and other neighborhood venues. You’ll find rodeo events, “talk stories” about growing up on the plantation, live music events, cultural performances, film nights, culinary demonstrations, craft fairs, guided walks and hikes, activities and games just for keiki (children), sporting events, and the historic parade and park celebration. Visit KoloaPlantationDays.com for full schedule of events or call Melissa (808) 652-3217. AUGUST HEIVA I KAUA‘I (Aug. 6-7) – This is a cultural festival, an international Tahitian dance and drumming competition with solo competitors from age 4 years to 50+ and group competition. An exciting part of the festival is the audience participation in dance and coconut husking contests. Multicultural Polynesian exhibition dancing and music are featured along with an extensive craft fair with an array of items from arts and jewelry to clothing and food with special emphasis on Tahitian products. Tickets are $6/person/day at Kapaÿa Beach Park. For more info, call Sally at (808) 822-9447 or visit HeivaKauai.com. THE SAND FESTIVAL AND SAND CASTLE CONTEST (Aug. 13) - Come to the free Sand Festival and Sand Castle/Sculpture Contest. For kids and adults, individuals or teams of any size. All are welcome to create their dream and enjoy a day at the beach as sand artists. Contest is held left of the Hanalei Pier from 11am to 3pm. For more info, visit HawaiiSandCastle.com or call Julian (808) 245-8680. All events are subject to change. Go to MyHawaiiTraveler.com for more special events. 109

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KAUA‘I TRAVELER

KAUA‘I FOR YOUR INFORMATION Area Code (808) for entire state

EMERGENCY NUMBERS Ambulance/Police/Fire Civil Defense Poison Control Wilcox Memorial Hospital

911 733-4300 1-800-362-3585 245-1100

AIRPORTS

Līhu‘e Ariport

AIRLINES

Alaska Airlines American Airlines go! Airlines Hawaiian Airlines Japan Airlines United Airlines

CREDIT CARDS

American Express MasterCard Visa Credit Card Directory

TRANSPORTATION

Hertz Car Rental Bus Taxi

246-1448

1-800-654-5669 1-800-433-7300 1-888-IFLYGO2 1-800-882-8811 1-800-525-3663 1-800-241-6522

1-800-221-7282 1-800-307-7309 1-800-847-2911 1-800-555-1212

1-800-654-3011 241-6410 246-9554

WEATHER/CONDITIONS Weather Forecast Marine Forecast

245-6001 245-3564

VISITOR INFORMATION Directory 1-800-555-1212 Information 411 Agricultural Inspection 245-2831 Hawai‘i County Parks 241-4463 Hawai‘i State Parks 274-3444 Fishing License 274-3344 Hunting License 274-3433 Kaua‘i Chamber of Commerce 245-7363 Kaua‘i Visitors Information 1-800-262-1400

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LOCAL VIBE

WHY DON'T YOU... HIKE THE COAST.

The summer months are considered the safest time to hike the world-famous Kalalau Trail. The entire hike is 22-miles round-trip and takes advance planning if you are going to camp overnight at Kalalau Valley. Camping permits are extremely popular and sell out quickly. However, you can do day hikes starting at Këÿë Beach to Hanakäpiÿai Falls (or beach) if you still want to experience a part of the epic hike with matching views. Just make sure to check the weather and put safety in the forefront, and take everything you need like water, food, and sunscreen. A hiking permit is required past Hanakäpiÿai Valley. For safety video, permits, map and more information, visit http://dlnr.hawaii.gov/dsp/hiking/kauai/ kalalau-trail/.

GET A HIGHER EDUCATION. You can see more and learn a lot about the history and remote areas by taking a helicopter tour. This is no tourist trap—it’s definitely a must-do if you want to truly see all the majestic gems of Kauaÿi especially since most of the island is inaccessible and undeveloped. Jack Harter Helicopters (808) 245-3774, Safari Helicopters (808) 246-0136, or Sunshine Helicopters (808) 2455953.

ZIP IT. Soar through lush tropical foliage surrounded by amazing scenery with ocean squealing with excitement from the speed and height— sure to delight the young and the young at heart. Go upside down or fly like Superman, even zipline at sunset or at twilight— just have fun! Koloa Zipline (808) 742-2734/ KoloaZipline.com or Skyline Eco-Adventures (808) 4197948/Zipline.com/Kauai. 112

PICNIC IN PARADISE.

Pack a delicious picnic with food that travels well and eats easy (no fork or knives) like cured meats, fruits, cheeses, paninis, dessert and your choice of beverage whether wine or fresh-pressed juice and find a paradisal spot and enjoy. Living Foods Gourmet Market and Café is a onestop shop and has everything you need to dine al fresco. Take your senses on a complete journey with yummy food and an ocean/mountain view and take in the immense tranquility found in nature. Living Foods Gourmet Market and Café is located at The Shops at Kukui‘ula and is open every day from 7am to 9pm. Phone (808) 742-2323. KAUA‘I TRAVELER

PHOTO COURTESY: (BOTTOM LEFT) SKYLINE ECO-ADVENTURES

and mountain views while

Deluxe Snorkel & Sunset Dinner Cruises & Beach Landing Snorkel Raft Adventures

Voted #1 Best Boat Tour 6 Times! *Tour programs subject to seasonal changes and ocean conditions.

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Call Us Toll Free: 1-800-733-7997

Scan this code with your smart-phone to visit our Website for more details.

See Dolphins, Sea Caves, Waterfalls & More on Spectacular Na Pali *

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U KA A’I TRAVELER

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Treat yourself...

St. Regis

Princeville, Kauai Open Daily

8:30am - 9:30pm Phone

808.826.6555 SUMMER 2016

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LOCAL VIBE SPA + STYLE THE BEST BEACHES EPIC ADVENTURES FOOD + DRINK WHAT WE LOVE NOW

FAR OUT PLACES GETTING OFF THE BEATEN PATH

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3/31/16 9:25 AM