Tale of Two Siblings in Kauai: Part II
Aug 8th, 2014, 07:10 AM
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Tale of Two Siblings in Kauai: Part II
As you may have read from Tale of Two Siblings in Kauai: Part I, I had to share my island last year. My brother & K were first timers to Hawaii so DH & I showed off our island. We were there to celebrate DH and K's double bday and we had so much fun we decided to do it again! This time we celebrated my brother's big 3-0!
Here goes our second helping of paradise together...
Day 1: Saturday July 26...On our way to paradise!
If you read part I you know about our troubles with United. This trip we took our usual flight with US Airways...Austin/Phoenix; Phoenix/Lihue. The flight went off without a hitch except we boarded late for our leg to Lihue because of a missing flight atttendant. Upon her arrival, the passengers erupted with cheers and clapping. All aboard...when those wheels touch down we will be on that Kauai red dirt!
Almost 7 hours later...I can see it...my island! I LOVE being back!
This trip my brother did the car in his name so we shuttled over to Avis. We got over to Avis and there was no line...we had the car in 10 minutes! We are off...the island is ours!
First stop, our tradition, Brick Oven Pizza in Kalaheo. I love the open windows and the gingham curtains blowing in the breeze! The pizza was delicious, belly's full, and content with knowing I had a full week ahead of me in paradise! It doesn't get any better!
We made our usual stop at Wal-Mart in Lihue for sunscreen and other items. Geared up with supplies, nothing is in our way of that north shore!
As you all may know, I am a big fan of the Sealodge. Last year we did stay in a 2bdr at the Sealodge suitable for couples but that unit was sold after our stay and not available any longer for rent. Other units at the Sealodge have a queen bed and the second room has twins...not suitable for two couples traveling together so we rented with Ali'i Kai. We loved our unit at Ali'i Kai! The walkway to our unit was amazing and the balcony of our unit had the Sealodge beat! If DH & I return alone then I will stay at the Sealodge but with my brother & K then we will pick Ali'i Kai. You can't go wrong with either!
After a long day of travel...my heart full...I slept to the sound of the ocean!
Here goes our second helping of paradise together...
Day 1: Saturday July 26...On our way to paradise!
If you read part I you know about our troubles with United. This trip we took our usual flight with US Airways...Austin/Phoenix; Phoenix/Lihue. The flight went off without a hitch except we boarded late for our leg to Lihue because of a missing flight atttendant. Upon her arrival, the passengers erupted with cheers and clapping. All aboard...when those wheels touch down we will be on that Kauai red dirt!
Almost 7 hours later...I can see it...my island! I LOVE being back!
This trip my brother did the car in his name so we shuttled over to Avis. We got over to Avis and there was no line...we had the car in 10 minutes! We are off...the island is ours!
First stop, our tradition, Brick Oven Pizza in Kalaheo. I love the open windows and the gingham curtains blowing in the breeze! The pizza was delicious, belly's full, and content with knowing I had a full week ahead of me in paradise! It doesn't get any better!
We made our usual stop at Wal-Mart in Lihue for sunscreen and other items. Geared up with supplies, nothing is in our way of that north shore!
As you all may know, I am a big fan of the Sealodge. Last year we did stay in a 2bdr at the Sealodge suitable for couples but that unit was sold after our stay and not available any longer for rent. Other units at the Sealodge have a queen bed and the second room has twins...not suitable for two couples traveling together so we rented with Ali'i Kai. We loved our unit at Ali'i Kai! The walkway to our unit was amazing and the balcony of our unit had the Sealodge beat! If DH & I return alone then I will stay at the Sealodge but with my brother & K then we will pick Ali'i Kai. You can't go wrong with either!
After a long day of travel...my heart full...I slept to the sound of the ocean!
Aug 8th, 2014, 08:20 AM
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Day 2: Sunday July 27...Fit for a Queen!
I awoke to my first full day in paradise at 5:35am (10:35am at home)! I took the chance to enjoy the balcony all to myself and watch the sunrise! Am I really here? I am bursting with happiness! The sun rises and it's going to be a bright sunny day! The sun is shining down on my north shore!
My brother & K awake to join me on the balcony. K starts snapping pictures. I tell my brother, it's time for breakfast! If you remember from the first tale, he is our chef! Don't worry, he doesn't cook all week. He finds a way to get out of that duty...
!
Upon deciding to return, my brother had a few requests of things he wanted to see on this second round. One of his requests and our first plan for the day...Queen's Bath.
Queen's Bath just happened to be 5 minutes from Ali'i Kai. We have our sunscreen and swimsuits/trunks on...let's go! We hiked down the short path to see the ocean and the pool of water surrounded by lava rock. A waterfall was tumbling over the lava rock into the pool of water below. The sun made the water sparkle...it was beautiful!
Our adventurous side emerged and we all spread out, hopping around lava rocks to figure out a way down. My brother & K figured out a way down to the pool/waterfall. DH, my brother, & K maneuvered down some rocks to reach the bottom and they somewhat got in the cold water. I stayed up top and took pictures. The climb down was too vertical and one rock leap was longer than my height. When they came back up, we did hike around more lava rock towards the right and at ocean level to find another shallow pool. We all got in and splashed in the water.
It was fun to see but later that day, back at the condo, my brother realized the pool they were in was not actually Queen's Bath. We did notice when we arrived at the pool that other people were hiking back from further along the left. The actual Queen's Bath was further along and from the picture it looked easier to get into.
We planned to go back to see the "real" Queen's Bath later in the week but other plans and morning rain on our last day never let that happen.
After hiking back out, it was almost lunch time so we headed into Hanalei. We had lunch at Bubba's...it was delicious! Bellies full...it was time to be beach bum's! We headed to Lumahai...the eastern portion technically called Kahalahala. It was a glorious day on Lumahai! It was as calm as a swimming pool. We floated, on noodles, in the water all afternoon. We had to pull ourselves away so we could clean up for dinner.
Last year for DH & K's bday we had a wonderful dinner at the Hanalei Dolphin. We definitely wanted to eat there for my brother's bday, which was Thurs during our trip, and we wanted to eat there one other time. We chose Sunday to have a few days in between. The food was good...DH's steak and my butterfly shrimp; my brother and K's portion were very small, something K wanted they were out of; the service was absolutely terrible. We were very disappointed.
Early to rise, a full day in the sun, early to bed!
I awoke to my first full day in paradise at 5:35am (10:35am at home)! I took the chance to enjoy the balcony all to myself and watch the sunrise! Am I really here? I am bursting with happiness! The sun rises and it's going to be a bright sunny day! The sun is shining down on my north shore!
My brother & K awake to join me on the balcony. K starts snapping pictures. I tell my brother, it's time for breakfast! If you remember from the first tale, he is our chef! Don't worry, he doesn't cook all week. He finds a way to get out of that duty...
! Upon deciding to return, my brother had a few requests of things he wanted to see on this second round. One of his requests and our first plan for the day...Queen's Bath.
Queen's Bath just happened to be 5 minutes from Ali'i Kai. We have our sunscreen and swimsuits/trunks on...let's go! We hiked down the short path to see the ocean and the pool of water surrounded by lava rock. A waterfall was tumbling over the lava rock into the pool of water below. The sun made the water sparkle...it was beautiful!
Our adventurous side emerged and we all spread out, hopping around lava rocks to figure out a way down. My brother & K figured out a way down to the pool/waterfall. DH, my brother, & K maneuvered down some rocks to reach the bottom and they somewhat got in the cold water. I stayed up top and took pictures. The climb down was too vertical and one rock leap was longer than my height. When they came back up, we did hike around more lava rock towards the right and at ocean level to find another shallow pool. We all got in and splashed in the water.
It was fun to see but later that day, back at the condo, my brother realized the pool they were in was not actually Queen's Bath. We did notice when we arrived at the pool that other people were hiking back from further along the left. The actual Queen's Bath was further along and from the picture it looked easier to get into.
We planned to go back to see the "real" Queen's Bath later in the week but other plans and morning rain on our last day never let that happen.
After hiking back out, it was almost lunch time so we headed into Hanalei. We had lunch at Bubba's...it was delicious! Bellies full...it was time to be beach bum's! We headed to Lumahai...the eastern portion technically called Kahalahala. It was a glorious day on Lumahai! It was as calm as a swimming pool. We floated, on noodles, in the water all afternoon. We had to pull ourselves away so we could clean up for dinner.
Last year for DH & K's bday we had a wonderful dinner at the Hanalei Dolphin. We definitely wanted to eat there for my brother's bday, which was Thurs during our trip, and we wanted to eat there one other time. We chose Sunday to have a few days in between. The food was good...DH's steak and my butterfly shrimp; my brother and K's portion were very small, something K wanted they were out of; the service was absolutely terrible. We were very disappointed.
Early to rise, a full day in the sun, early to bed!
Aug 8th, 2014, 08:55 AM
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Day 3: Monday July 28...Sshh, it's a secret!
Before the trip we thought of some things that we wanted to do. We wanted to hike to Hanakapi'ai Falls but decided to forgo it instead for Secret Falls.
Up early, listening to the waves, feeling the breeze, and watching the sunrise...best way to start a day! Breakfast, sunscreen...we are ready.
We headed to Kapa'a/Wailua in search of Kamokila Hawaiian Village. We got the idea to kayak/hike to Secret Falls from Vicki: http://vicki-h.travellerspoint.com/55/
Before arriving at Kamokila, we stopped at the Opaeka'a Falls lookout. DH & I have seen, during our 2007 trip, but it was new to my brother & K. We arrive at Kamokila and pay for our kayaks. We are doing the self-guided kayak to the trailhead. None of us have ever kayaked before...it was so much easier than I thought it would be. Granted, we only kayaked one mile! It was a lot of fun and surprisingly I was good at it, for that one mile! The hike was really nice as well...no uphill! It was a flat terrain and an easy stream crossing. One section did have a lot of tree roots and there was one uphill step up. It was a nice shaded hike. We were absolutely amazed when we reached the waterfall! It was stunning! As you may have guessed, the falls is not a secret...! There were quite a few people there but not too bad. We walked over to a section of the rocks to leave our stuff and made our way into the water. Most people had arrived before us but no one had gotten in the water. Only two people were in the water when we got in so we got some great shots of us! The water, of course, was cold at first but we quickly got used to it. DH, K, and I swam under the waterfall and my brother took pictures. It was so much fun! I can't believe we swam in a waterfall! A guided tour was making its way down so we decided to hike back out. It was after lunch time and we were getting hungry!
We hiked and kayaked back...what a fun adventure! Time to find food...also per Vicki's blog, we decided to eat at Verde in Kapa'a. My brother & K wanted a margarita and being from Texas we wanted a 'chips & salsa' fix! The food was delicious and the portions were huge! After an adventuresome morning it was just what we needed!
After eating and relaxing at Verde, we walked the shops in Kapa'a. It was early evening when we made it back to the north shore. Still full from our late lunch, we decided to just snack at the condo if we got hungry. We watched a movie then were lulled to sleep by the breeze and the sound of the ocean!
Before the trip we thought of some things that we wanted to do. We wanted to hike to Hanakapi'ai Falls but decided to forgo it instead for Secret Falls.
Up early, listening to the waves, feeling the breeze, and watching the sunrise...best way to start a day! Breakfast, sunscreen...we are ready.
We headed to Kapa'a/Wailua in search of Kamokila Hawaiian Village. We got the idea to kayak/hike to Secret Falls from Vicki: http://vicki-h.travellerspoint.com/55/
Before arriving at Kamokila, we stopped at the Opaeka'a Falls lookout. DH & I have seen, during our 2007 trip, but it was new to my brother & K. We arrive at Kamokila and pay for our kayaks. We are doing the self-guided kayak to the trailhead. None of us have ever kayaked before...it was so much easier than I thought it would be. Granted, we only kayaked one mile! It was a lot of fun and surprisingly I was good at it, for that one mile! The hike was really nice as well...no uphill! It was a flat terrain and an easy stream crossing. One section did have a lot of tree roots and there was one uphill step up. It was a nice shaded hike. We were absolutely amazed when we reached the waterfall! It was stunning! As you may have guessed, the falls is not a secret...
! There were quite a few people there but not too bad. We walked over to a section of the rocks to leave our stuff and made our way into the water. Most people had arrived before us but no one had gotten in the water. Only two people were in the water when we got in so we got some great shots of us! The water, of course, was cold at first but we quickly got used to it. DH, K, and I swam under the waterfall and my brother took pictures. It was so much fun! I can't believe we swam in a waterfall! A guided tour was making its way down so we decided to hike back out. It was after lunch time and we were getting hungry! We hiked and kayaked back...what a fun adventure! Time to find food...also per Vicki's blog, we decided to eat at Verde in Kapa'a. My brother & K wanted a margarita and being from Texas we wanted a 'chips & salsa' fix! The food was delicious and the portions were huge! After an adventuresome morning it was just what we needed!
After eating and relaxing at Verde, we walked the shops in Kapa'a. It was early evening when we made it back to the north shore. Still full from our late lunch, we decided to just snack at the condo if we got hungry. We watched a movie then were lulled to sleep by the breeze and the sound of the ocean!
Aug 8th, 2014, 11:04 AM
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Hi louistraveler! I'm so glad you are back and ready to share your adventure! It sounds like a wonderful first 2 days. I'm glad you didn't have any airline nightmares. I really liked Bubba's burgers and Verde is on my list to try! Can't wait to read more.
Aug 8th, 2014, 11:15 AM
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Day 4: Tuesday July 29...Life's a Beach!
Since we had been adventurous the day before, we thought this day called for us to be lazy!
First, breakfast! We headed into Hanalei to try Hanalei Coffee Roasters. It was packed; all the tables were filled and there was a long line. We were trying to decide what we wanted to do when brother starts walking over to the Hanalei Wake Up Cafe. We were seated immediately and it was around 9:30am. I have read some reviews saying this place is packed; wait for awhile for seating; and some reviews have said the owners/workers were rude. We ended up eating here three times that week...got seated right away, the food was great, and everyone person that helped us was really nice!
DH had the mac nut cinnamon roll and said it was delicious; my brother & K loved their omelet; I had, simply, eggs/bacon/toast which was really good! I know it is simple but their toast was delicious! The bread was thick but soft and I loved it...I had it all three times!
After breakfast we went into the shops in Hanalei then we drove to the end of the road to see the scenery. We then landed at Lumahai to settle in for the day. It was a blissful day of sand, sun, and swimming! Living the good life!
After plenty of sun and swimming it was time to head to the condo to clean up for dinner. Back in Hanalei, my brother & K had L&L Hawaiian BBQ and DH & I helped ourselves to another helping of Bubba's.
After dinner, my brother, K, and DH had a drink at Kalypso while I was a spectator.
Back at the condo...asleep by 10pm, such party animals!
Since we had been adventurous the day before, we thought this day called for us to be lazy!
First, breakfast! We headed into Hanalei to try Hanalei Coffee Roasters. It was packed; all the tables were filled and there was a long line. We were trying to decide what we wanted to do when brother starts walking over to the Hanalei Wake Up Cafe. We were seated immediately and it was around 9:30am. I have read some reviews saying this place is packed; wait for awhile for seating; and some reviews have said the owners/workers were rude. We ended up eating here three times that week...got seated right away, the food was great, and everyone person that helped us was really nice!
DH had the mac nut cinnamon roll and said it was delicious; my brother & K loved their omelet; I had, simply, eggs/bacon/toast which was really good! I know it is simple but their toast was delicious! The bread was thick but soft and I loved it...I had it all three times!
After breakfast we went into the shops in Hanalei then we drove to the end of the road to see the scenery. We then landed at Lumahai to settle in for the day. It was a blissful day of sand, sun, and swimming! Living the good life!
After plenty of sun and swimming it was time to head to the condo to clean up for dinner. Back in Hanalei, my brother & K had L&L Hawaiian BBQ and DH & I helped ourselves to another helping of Bubba's.
After dinner, my brother, K, and DH had a drink at Kalypso while I was a spectator.
Back at the condo...asleep by 10pm, such party animals!
Aug 8th, 2014, 11:23 AM
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Aloha tifa!
Thanks for reading and your comments! I'm being ambitious today and trying to do my report in one day. It was nice having an uneventful flight. I'm only partly glad to be back...! I was happy to see my (fur) baby and my parents but other than that I could leave it all behind to live in Hawaii!
Stay tuned for 30th bday adventures and a celeb sighting!
Thanks for reading and your comments! I'm being ambitious today and trying to do my report in one day. It was nice having an uneventful flight. I'm only partly glad to be back...
! I was happy to see my (fur) baby and my parents but other than that I could leave it all behind to live in Hawaii! Stay tuned for 30th bday adventures and a celeb sighting!
Aug 8th, 2014, 12:01 PM
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Day 5: Wednesday July 30...It's new to us!
Early to rise...still enjoying that balcony! We had plenty of sun the day before so we are hitting the streets today. Today's plans...breakfast at Kountry Kitchen, Wailua Falls, Koloa Rum Co., Spouting Horn, and the Kauai Brewery. Let's go!
We make the drive to Kapa'a to try Kountry Kitchen. DH & I have never tried KK and, I'm anticipating your disapproval Songdoc, no one tried the mac nut pancakes. K can't because she is gluten free and I'm not a fan of mac nut or bananas so that leaves my brother & DH but no takers. My brother & K had the omelet and they said it was delicious! I had eggs and toast to which they gave me guava jam. I LOVED the guava jam!
Full bellies and the open road...next stop, Wailua Falls. DH & I have been coming to Kauai since 2007 and we have never been to Wailua Falls. I don't know how that's happened but it did. The drive to Wailua Falls was nice, we felt secluded. Wailua Falls was beautiful! We are getting our fill of waterfalls this trip!
Last trip, my brother & K rented a separate car for the day to do some exploring and shopping. During that day, last trip, they stopped at the Koloa Rum Co. so my brother wanted to stop again to get a new collector's glass. DH & I have never been here, either! The Koloa Rum Co cottage was adorable! What did they have in their gift shop? Guava jam and a pineapple squeaky for my fur baby! We enjoyed the Koloa Rum shop and the couple of other shops located in another building on the grounds. I also had the best Hawaiian vanilla bean ice cream from the candy shop!
Back on the road...next stop, Spouting Horn. DH & I have been to Spouting Horn. We saw it on our 2007 trip. We were at Brennecke's Beach last year and didn't think to go to Spouting Horn...we were so close! My brother & K loved it! The water was spouting really good...got some good pics! Next up, my brother and K wanted a lava flow from Brennecke's Beach Broiler. We sat, overlooking the ocean, enjoying drinks with chips and salsa.
We made our way out west...my brother wanted to visit the Kauai Brewery. DH & my brother sampled some beer and we ate appetizers. My brother got a glass for his collection.
It was a nice, full day of new sights! We made the drive from the west back to the north shore. Since we had the big breakfast and snacks throughout the day we ordered a pizza from the Chevron in Princeville. Took our made to order brick oven pizza back to the condo and watched a movie.
Full day out on the island...breeze blowing through the condo...sound of the ocean waves...life is good!
Early to rise...still enjoying that balcony! We had plenty of sun the day before so we are hitting the streets today. Today's plans...breakfast at Kountry Kitchen, Wailua Falls, Koloa Rum Co., Spouting Horn, and the Kauai Brewery. Let's go!
We make the drive to Kapa'a to try Kountry Kitchen. DH & I have never tried KK and, I'm anticipating your disapproval Songdoc, no one tried the mac nut pancakes. K can't because she is gluten free and I'm not a fan of mac nut or bananas so that leaves my brother & DH but no takers. My brother & K had the omelet and they said it was delicious! I had eggs and toast to which they gave me guava jam. I LOVED the guava jam!
Full bellies and the open road...next stop, Wailua Falls. DH & I have been coming to Kauai since 2007 and we have never been to Wailua Falls. I don't know how that's happened but it did. The drive to Wailua Falls was nice, we felt secluded. Wailua Falls was beautiful! We are getting our fill of waterfalls this trip!
Last trip, my brother & K rented a separate car for the day to do some exploring and shopping. During that day, last trip, they stopped at the Koloa Rum Co. so my brother wanted to stop again to get a new collector's glass. DH & I have never been here, either! The Koloa Rum Co cottage was adorable! What did they have in their gift shop? Guava jam and a pineapple squeaky for my fur baby! We enjoyed the Koloa Rum shop and the couple of other shops located in another building on the grounds. I also had the best Hawaiian vanilla bean ice cream from the candy shop!
Back on the road...next stop, Spouting Horn. DH & I have been to Spouting Horn. We saw it on our 2007 trip. We were at Brennecke's Beach last year and didn't think to go to Spouting Horn...we were so close! My brother & K loved it! The water was spouting really good...got some good pics! Next up, my brother and K wanted a lava flow from Brennecke's Beach Broiler. We sat, overlooking the ocean, enjoying drinks with chips and salsa.
We made our way out west...my brother wanted to visit the Kauai Brewery. DH & my brother sampled some beer and we ate appetizers. My brother got a glass for his collection.
It was a nice, full day of new sights! We made the drive from the west back to the north shore. Since we had the big breakfast and snacks throughout the day we ordered a pizza from the Chevron in Princeville. Took our made to order brick oven pizza back to the condo and watched a movie.
Full day out on the island...breeze blowing through the condo...sound of the ocean waves...life is good!
Aug 8th, 2014, 12:51 PM
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Day 6: Thursday July 31...The Big 3-0!
Today is my brother's birthday...he said aloha to his twenties. My brother is 30!
Last year, we zip-lined for DH & K's double bday so this year we had a surprise for my brother. We are doing a bout tour of the Na Pali Coast!
We had considered it as an activity and my brother said it had to go in sea caves but he thought K would get seasick so it never went any further.
K & I conspired together and booked it as a bday surprise! I'll let y'all know before I continue...no one got seasick! Not in our group or any other!
Our tour was at 8:15am, so we were at the Hanalei Wake Up Cafe at 7am for bday breakfast. We got to sit on the porch with the mountain view! What a way to eat breakfast! Breakfast was delicious!
We were at the check in at 8am at Tahiti Nui. We signed in and were given a dry bag. We boarded the shuttle van and made the 5 min drive to beautiful Hanalei Bay. At Hanalei Bay, we got in a dingy, in groups, to our boat. We went with Holo Holo and chose the Na Pali Snorkel Adventure because the boat used was a rigid hull inflatable "raft". This boat was able to enter the sea caves, which was a must for us, and it had seats on the boat.
When we got to the boat, some people ahead of us had boarded and sat on the right side. This led to the left side seating being open which we got and it turned out to be the best seats. We were on the Na Pali side the whole trip up! We got lucky! When we got on our way, the captain told us to be on the lookout for dolphins. I spotted them! When I did, I spoke up and the captain drove the boat over and we watched dolphins in the water! It was an unbelievable sight!
Back on our way...we round the bend and pause at Ke'e. This is it, we are about to see the Na Pali coast for the first time from this view. It can only be seen by boat or helicopter. Some views are to be had along the hike but we have never seen it from this angle. What can I say...amazing, awestruck, beautiful, gorgeous, stunning, and unbelievable!!!
We went into two sea caves, one with an open ceiling. The open ceiling sea cave was absolutely amazing! The water was an unbelievable sight of blue that can't be described!
We made stops along the way for pictures and to hear Hawaiian history of the valley! We also saw many turtles!
At the most western point of the coast we stopped for snorkeling and lunch. Our boat dropped anchor farther from other boats on tour. The snorkeling was a lot of fun. They also handed out noodles to help float in the water. Lunch consisted of pre-made sandwiches, chips, and cookies. The cookies were absolutely delicious so I asked who mad them and I was told they were Costco!
I didn't say but I heard the captain say that the water was like glass that morning. The trip up, the boat just sliced through the water smoothly. I could tell from the beginning I was not going to get sick! The trip back we were hitting the waves for a fun return ride! Everyone on the boat was laughing and cheering about our roller coaster ride on the water. We even went under a waterfall and got wet!
I simply can't say enough about this boat trip! Captain Ron and Claudia were great; the boat ride was pricey but worth every penny! It was one of the best things I have ever done!
https://www.holoholokauaiboattours.c...orkeling-tour/
Back at Hanalei Bay, sparkling in the sun, for our return to our car. We are on a high with how amazing the boat ride was! My brother thanked us a lot for his bday surprise!
Back at the condo, we changed and took my brother to play mini golf. Last year, we played mini golf on DH & K's bday and they both got a hole in one. No hole in one this time...we actually all were pretty bad but it was fun!
Back at the condo for our dinner outfits...time for birthday dinner at Hanalei Dolphin. Hopefully we have some bday luck! We did, the dinner was amazing, recreated just like DH & K's bday on the previous trip! Our waitress was great; K & I shared a pound of crab legs; my brother had steak and crab legs; DH had steak; my brother & K had wine; we had bread and butter; we had birthday dessert! It was a delicious dinner!
What a 30th birthday...it was simply amazing!
Today is my brother's birthday...he said aloha to his twenties. My brother is 30!
Last year, we zip-lined for DH & K's double bday so this year we had a surprise for my brother. We are doing a bout tour of the Na Pali Coast!
We had considered it as an activity and my brother said it had to go in sea caves but he thought K would get seasick so it never went any further.
K & I conspired together and booked it as a bday surprise! I'll let y'all know before I continue...no one got seasick! Not in our group or any other!
Our tour was at 8:15am, so we were at the Hanalei Wake Up Cafe at 7am for bday breakfast. We got to sit on the porch with the mountain view! What a way to eat breakfast! Breakfast was delicious!
We were at the check in at 8am at Tahiti Nui. We signed in and were given a dry bag. We boarded the shuttle van and made the 5 min drive to beautiful Hanalei Bay. At Hanalei Bay, we got in a dingy, in groups, to our boat. We went with Holo Holo and chose the Na Pali Snorkel Adventure because the boat used was a rigid hull inflatable "raft". This boat was able to enter the sea caves, which was a must for us, and it had seats on the boat.
When we got to the boat, some people ahead of us had boarded and sat on the right side. This led to the left side seating being open which we got and it turned out to be the best seats. We were on the Na Pali side the whole trip up! We got lucky! When we got on our way, the captain told us to be on the lookout for dolphins. I spotted them! When I did, I spoke up and the captain drove the boat over and we watched dolphins in the water! It was an unbelievable sight!
Back on our way...we round the bend and pause at Ke'e. This is it, we are about to see the Na Pali coast for the first time from this view. It can only be seen by boat or helicopter. Some views are to be had along the hike but we have never seen it from this angle. What can I say...amazing, awestruck, beautiful, gorgeous, stunning, and unbelievable!!!
We went into two sea caves, one with an open ceiling. The open ceiling sea cave was absolutely amazing! The water was an unbelievable sight of blue that can't be described!
We made stops along the way for pictures and to hear Hawaiian history of the valley! We also saw many turtles!
At the most western point of the coast we stopped for snorkeling and lunch. Our boat dropped anchor farther from other boats on tour. The snorkeling was a lot of fun. They also handed out noodles to help float in the water. Lunch consisted of pre-made sandwiches, chips, and cookies. The cookies were absolutely delicious so I asked who mad them and I was told they were Costco!
I didn't say but I heard the captain say that the water was like glass that morning. The trip up, the boat just sliced through the water smoothly. I could tell from the beginning I was not going to get sick! The trip back we were hitting the waves for a fun return ride! Everyone on the boat was laughing and cheering about our roller coaster ride on the water. We even went under a waterfall and got wet!
I simply can't say enough about this boat trip! Captain Ron and Claudia were great; the boat ride was pricey but worth every penny! It was one of the best things I have ever done!
https://www.holoholokauaiboattours.c...orkeling-tour/
Back at Hanalei Bay, sparkling in the sun, for our return to our car. We are on a high with how amazing the boat ride was! My brother thanked us a lot for his bday surprise!
Back at the condo, we changed and took my brother to play mini golf. Last year, we played mini golf on DH & K's bday and they both got a hole in one. No hole in one this time...we actually all were pretty bad but it was fun!
Back at the condo for our dinner outfits...time for birthday dinner at Hanalei Dolphin. Hopefully we have some bday luck! We did, the dinner was amazing, recreated just like DH & K's bday on the previous trip! Our waitress was great; K & I shared a pound of crab legs; my brother had steak and crab legs; DH had steak; my brother & K had wine; we had bread and butter; we had birthday dessert! It was a delicious dinner!
What a 30th birthday...it was simply amazing!
Aug 9th, 2014, 09:12 AM
#14
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Wow, are you awakening great memories for me! Lumahai was our hangout. We sailed with HoloHolo, but don't remember that they sailed from north shore then? We loved our trip with them. It was done in the afternoon after a morning helicopter flight over the Na'pali coast, so seeing the same beautiful sights from above and sea level.
Sorry to hear about your experience at Halanei Dolphin; we had a lovely meal there as a mini GTG with some Fodor friends.
Sorry to hear about your experience at Halanei Dolphin; we had a lovely meal there as a mini GTG with some Fodor friends.
Aug 11th, 2014, 12:14 PM
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Sounds like a fun birthday for your brother! I am looking forward to spending mine on Kauai next year! I'm glad that the Hanalei Dolphin was better this time around...now I'm gonna add it to my list!
Aug 12th, 2014, 07:00 AM
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I'm back...sorry to leave y'all on a cliffhanger!
Day 7: Friday August 1...Bliss on the Bay
With this being our last full day and night our hearts are heavy but we must make the most of every moment. We start the day with our third helping of Hanalei Wake Up Cafe!
Last year we wanted to get mom a pineapple. On our last day (airport day) we went to The Pineapple Store near the airport to find them closed. I thought we could get one at the airport gift shop but the freezer was empty! No pineapple for mom last year. This year I was determined to bring her a pineapple from Hawaii. After breakfast we drove to The Pineapple Store and, score, we got a pineapple boxed, sealed, and preapproved for agriculture inspection!
Breakfast, check; pineapple for mom, check; time to soak up every ounce of that north shore. We decide to spend our last day at Hanalei Bay. As many times as DH & I have been, we have never swam at Hanalei Bay. I know, shocking! Now, that I have swam there, shocking to me and now it is all I can think about! DH & I have been to the pier but never stayed to swim.
We set up, ate our lunch on the beach, I had a beach nap to the sound of lapping waves. I couldn't stop staring at the picture perfect views! We had a wonderfully glorious time in the water...I couldn't get myself out of the water! The water was perfectly calm and still...we spent hours floating in the water. It was absolute bliss!
After many wonderful hours at Hanalei Bay, we peeled ourselves away. Back at the condo, we got ready for dinner. We decided on Kalypso. While having drinks the other night at Kalypso, a sizzling peppercorn steak passed us we decided to eat there on our last day. Our meal was delicious! DH got the peppercorn steak, I got the fish & chips, my brother got the steak with gravy, and K got nachos. We followed up with desserts which were huge! We left feeling full and happy but not wanting to say goodbye tomorrow.
Day 7: Friday August 1...Bliss on the Bay
With this being our last full day and night our hearts are heavy but we must make the most of every moment. We start the day with our third helping of Hanalei Wake Up Cafe!
Last year we wanted to get mom a pineapple. On our last day (airport day) we went to The Pineapple Store near the airport to find them closed. I thought we could get one at the airport gift shop but the freezer was empty! No pineapple for mom last year. This year I was determined to bring her a pineapple from Hawaii. After breakfast we drove to The Pineapple Store and, score, we got a pineapple boxed, sealed, and preapproved for agriculture inspection!
Breakfast, check; pineapple for mom, check; time to soak up every ounce of that north shore. We decide to spend our last day at Hanalei Bay. As many times as DH & I have been, we have never swam at Hanalei Bay. I know, shocking! Now, that I have swam there, shocking to me and now it is all I can think about! DH & I have been to the pier but never stayed to swim.
We set up, ate our lunch on the beach, I had a beach nap to the sound of lapping waves. I couldn't stop staring at the picture perfect views! We had a wonderfully glorious time in the water...I couldn't get myself out of the water! The water was perfectly calm and still...we spent hours floating in the water. It was absolute bliss!
After many wonderful hours at Hanalei Bay, we peeled ourselves away. Back at the condo, we got ready for dinner. We decided on Kalypso. While having drinks the other night at Kalypso, a sizzling peppercorn steak passed us we decided to eat there on our last day. Our meal was delicious! DH got the peppercorn steak, I got the fish & chips, my brother got the steak with gravy, and K got nachos. We followed up with desserts which were huge! We left feeling full and happy but not wanting to say goodbye tomorrow.
Aug 12th, 2014, 08:30 AM
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Day 8: Saturday August 2...All good things must end 
I awoke to the sound of the rain...even the island is sad that we have to leave! It was bright, sunny, and hot all week but that morning the rain came in. It sounded so soothing listening to the rain. Last year we had late check out and took advantage of some extra beach time. This time someone was checking in so we had to checkout at 10am. The day before I was disappointed that we would have to leave so early but the rain made it easier. We spent all morning reluctantly packing. Time to say bye to the condo and fill our day until our 9pm flight.
Car full and heavy hearts, we start our journey towards home. We decide to drive through Hanalei and to the end of the road. We are in our convertible (top up), DH driving, my brother in the passenger seat so K & I are in the backseat. I am looking out the window (on the driver's side) just taking in the view. Suddenly, DH & K say, "I just saw Pierce Brosnan"! I said, what...where? I'm looking around but I didn't see him. I missed him! I said we need to hurry and turn around because I want to see Pierce! We get to the dry caves and Haena Beach Park to turn around. We didn't just turn around to see Pierce, I promise, we thought it would be easier than at Ke'e. I didn't think there was a chance of spotting him again! The sun decides to come out, we put the top down and our eyes are wide waiting to spot him. It is a quiet morning on the north shore, no other cars around and we are driving along at about 15mph. There he is...Pierce Brosnan rides his bicycle next to our convertible! It was like time slowed...we looked at him, he looked at us and NO ONE SAID A WORD! I guess we all chickened out! After the drive by, K & I giggled like school girls so I'm sure he heard us. Maybe that made his day...! It was fun just to see him!
Back in Hanalei, it starts to lightly rain, nearing 11am the town is getting busy. We decide to put the top up and say bye to the north shore. We make the drive to Kapa'a but stop at a farmer's market in Anahola. My brother & K got some cooked pork and mangos. We arrived in Kapa'a, to eat at Bubba's. My brother & K snagged a picnic table while DH & I waited in line. We enjoyed our burgers while they devoured the pork! We walked a few shops in Kapa'a then a few in the Coconut Marketplace.
After the shops, it is around 1:30 so we have about 4 hours to fill. Our plan was to be at the Brick Oven for pizza at 5-5:30. I told my brother & K about the Hanapepe swinging bridge and Salt Pond Beach Park. They said that sounded good...so the road took us west. We were making our west and we spotted a Dirt Shirt shop so we pulled in for my brother to look. He found one he liked and bought it! Back on the road, arriving in Hanapepe, we easily found the swinging bridge. My brother and I share a fear of bridges that have movement! DH & K crossed the bridge and my brother & I just viewed the bridge! Right before the bridge, we noticed an adorable cottage that is the Aloha Spice Co. We went in to browse. My brother noticed a bottle of Waialua Vanilla Cream. He said it was the best vanilla cream soda he has ever had in his life! We continued west to Salt Pond Beach Park. It was also easy to find. It was a lovely beach...I propped myself on a palm tree and said I was staying for good! We saw the neighboring field where the salt collecting takes place. Not much action was happening at the moment but it was cool to see! We head back towards the pizza place and Kauai Coffee catches our eye. We still have some time so we turn in. We look in the gift shop and enjoy a self-guided tour of the grounds. We arrive at Brick Oven Pizza at 5pm. Perfect timing! We enjoy one last pizza and chocolate cake! It is nearing time to be at the airport so we head out to gas up the car. Airport arrival...it's official...it's all over. Smooth, uneventful flights and we are home.
Our second helping of paradise together was just as amazing as the first! I'm sad it is over. I missed Kauai before I even left! I'm trying to convince my brother to go one more time...K is ready to go! You may be reading Tale of Two Siblings Part III next year...third time's the charm,!
Thanks for reading!
I awoke to the sound of the rain...even the island is sad that we have to leave! It was bright, sunny, and hot all week but that morning the rain came in. It sounded so soothing listening to the rain. Last year we had late check out and took advantage of some extra beach time. This time someone was checking in so we had to checkout at 10am. The day before I was disappointed that we would have to leave so early but the rain made it easier. We spent all morning reluctantly packing. Time to say bye to the condo and fill our day until our 9pm flight.
Car full and heavy hearts, we start our journey towards home. We decide to drive through Hanalei and to the end of the road. We are in our convertible (top up), DH driving, my brother in the passenger seat so K & I are in the backseat. I am looking out the window (on the driver's side) just taking in the view. Suddenly, DH & K say, "I just saw Pierce Brosnan"! I said, what...where? I'm looking around but I didn't see him. I missed him! I said we need to hurry and turn around because I want to see Pierce! We get to the dry caves and Haena Beach Park to turn around. We didn't just turn around to see Pierce, I promise, we thought it would be easier than at Ke'e. I didn't think there was a chance of spotting him again! The sun decides to come out, we put the top down and our eyes are wide waiting to spot him. It is a quiet morning on the north shore, no other cars around and we are driving along at about 15mph. There he is...Pierce Brosnan rides his bicycle next to our convertible! It was like time slowed...we looked at him, he looked at us and NO ONE SAID A WORD! I guess we all chickened out! After the drive by, K & I giggled like school girls so I'm sure he heard us. Maybe that made his day...
! It was fun just to see him! Back in Hanalei, it starts to lightly rain, nearing 11am the town is getting busy. We decide to put the top up and say bye to the north shore. We make the drive to Kapa'a but stop at a farmer's market in Anahola. My brother & K got some cooked pork and mangos. We arrived in Kapa'a, to eat at Bubba's. My brother & K snagged a picnic table while DH & I waited in line. We enjoyed our burgers while they devoured the pork! We walked a few shops in Kapa'a then a few in the Coconut Marketplace.
After the shops, it is around 1:30 so we have about 4 hours to fill. Our plan was to be at the Brick Oven for pizza at 5-5:30. I told my brother & K about the Hanapepe swinging bridge and Salt Pond Beach Park. They said that sounded good...so the road took us west. We were making our west and we spotted a Dirt Shirt shop so we pulled in for my brother to look. He found one he liked and bought it! Back on the road, arriving in Hanapepe, we easily found the swinging bridge. My brother and I share a fear of bridges that have movement! DH & K crossed the bridge and my brother & I just viewed the bridge! Right before the bridge, we noticed an adorable cottage that is the Aloha Spice Co. We went in to browse. My brother noticed a bottle of Waialua Vanilla Cream. He said it was the best vanilla cream soda he has ever had in his life! We continued west to Salt Pond Beach Park. It was also easy to find. It was a lovely beach...I propped myself on a palm tree and said I was staying for good! We saw the neighboring field where the salt collecting takes place. Not much action was happening at the moment but it was cool to see! We head back towards the pizza place and Kauai Coffee catches our eye. We still have some time so we turn in. We look in the gift shop and enjoy a self-guided tour of the grounds. We arrive at Brick Oven Pizza at 5pm. Perfect timing! We enjoy one last pizza and chocolate cake! It is nearing time to be at the airport so we head out to gas up the car. Airport arrival...it's official...it's all over. Smooth, uneventful flights and we are home.
Our second helping of paradise together was just as amazing as the first! I'm sad it is over. I missed Kauai before I even left! I'm trying to convince my brother to go one more time...K is ready to go! You may be reading Tale of Two Siblings Part III next year...third time's the charm,
!Thanks for reading!
