Kauai Itinerary Advice Needed
Dec 6th, 2012, 11:39 AM
#21
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I did Blue Hawaiian helicoptors in Kauai and it was amazing. I am not quite sure if we went past Wailua falls, because we went past a LOT of waterfalls, some only visible by air. Is Wailua falls the one that you can drive up to? If so, it's very easy to visit and no hike at all, you just drive up and take pictures. It was great and it only took 15 mins!
The waterfall that was amazing to us was the one featured in Jurassic Park (the first one). I am not sure what the name of it is, but duing the helicopter tour, they played the Jurassic park soundtrack when we flew past it. We completely recognized it from the movie and being complete geeks, me and my husband were beyond excited and flipping out in the back of the helicopter. Of course no one could hear us. LOL.
The waterfall that was amazing to us was the one featured in Jurassic Park (the first one). I am not sure what the name of it is, but duing the helicopter tour, they played the Jurassic park soundtrack when we flew past it. We completely recognized it from the movie and being complete geeks, me and my husband were beyond excited and flipping out in the back of the helicopter. Of course no one could hear us. LOL.
Dec 6th, 2012, 11:54 AM
#22
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I've hiked Kalalua about a half dozen times - the first two miles in and out. It is one of our favorites. We always go early to beat the crowds and day trippers from the other side.
Like every single other trail on the island, it comes down to moisture conditions. Yes the first 16th of that part of the trail is traversing rocks and boulders, but it is not that big of a deal if you use due caution and again don't go in wet conditions. Crossing the water to the beach also requires due caution, but is not often dangerous, as it is in the winter months and surf conditions.
To do the 11 mile trail is where you will find very poor conditions and a few areas that are often dangerous. We have never been inclined to hike in and camp with a bunch of strangers.
Our favourite hike in Waimea is the Awa-'awapuhi loop, which is much more challenging given the altitude changes, but one we've enjoyed a few times. Perhaps your guide will take you on that one!
We usually end up with a convertible for a few extra dollars a day. We've managed to make it to Polihale many times in a rental car at all times of year - December/Jan/March/May/July It really comes down to the road conditions. If they are ok, you put up the roof and drive real slow and with intense caution. You pull over and let locals pass, and once the dust clears you drive on. When you get there, just stay off the sand and hike onto the beach.
I suggest you purchase cheap surf shoes to protect your feet from hot summer sand and rocks.
Like every single other trail on the island, it comes down to moisture conditions. Yes the first 16th of that part of the trail is traversing rocks and boulders, but it is not that big of a deal if you use due caution and again don't go in wet conditions. Crossing the water to the beach also requires due caution, but is not often dangerous, as it is in the winter months and surf conditions.
To do the 11 mile trail is where you will find very poor conditions and a few areas that are often dangerous. We have never been inclined to hike in and camp with a bunch of strangers.
Our favourite hike in Waimea is the Awa-'awapuhi loop, which is much more challenging given the altitude changes, but one we've enjoyed a few times. Perhaps your guide will take you on that one!
We usually end up with a convertible for a few extra dollars a day. We've managed to make it to Polihale many times in a rental car at all times of year - December/Jan/March/May/July It really comes down to the road conditions. If they are ok, you put up the roof and drive real slow and with intense caution. You pull over and let locals pass, and once the dust clears you drive on. When you get there, just stay off the sand and hike onto the beach.
I suggest you purchase cheap surf shoes to protect your feet from hot summer sand and rocks.
Dec 6th, 2012, 12:27 PM
#23
No need for a 4-wheel drive.
I think the comments about the trail conditions (depending on the amount of moisture) are absolutely right. The time when I thought I was going to die on the Kalalau Trail started as a bone dry day--or I wouldn't have done it. (I'd done the first two miles before.) But en route to the waterfall it started pouring and there were streams where there hadn't been any. It was as slick as walking on greased ice. I went face down into a rock and thought I was going to drown in a foot of water.
I've also had trouble getting across slippery rocks in the stream to access Hanakapi'ai Beach. I've done some very strenuous hikes throughout the world and I love doing that--but the Kalalau is not a favorite of mine. But ... thousands of people do it all the time and only a tiny percentage of them get injured. If you enjoy climbing over boulders, etc ... go for it. It's iconic -- but I still prefer other Kauai hikes.
Of course you "can" accomplish the back and forth driving in one day. I was only pointing out that you'll be adding about an hour driving.
And Lookin_Glass -- while I mostly write on the lanai during the 3 - 4 months I now spend in paradise each year, my sister visits every summer, and DP spends a few weeks, and I love playing tour guide, so we've done virtually every Kauai "must-see" attraction. I've been to all the botanic gardens, done countless spectacular hikes, eaten at many restaurants, probably been to every "secret" beach and cove, taken various Napali boat tours, been to the fabulous Hindu monastery, and more. But that said, everyone has different tastes, and I only have one opinion. Mine just happens to be the correct one ;-). KIDDING!!!
I think the comments about the trail conditions (depending on the amount of moisture) are absolutely right. The time when I thought I was going to die on the Kalalau Trail started as a bone dry day--or I wouldn't have done it. (I'd done the first two miles before.) But en route to the waterfall it started pouring and there were streams where there hadn't been any. It was as slick as walking on greased ice. I went face down into a rock and thought I was going to drown in a foot of water.
I've also had trouble getting across slippery rocks in the stream to access Hanakapi'ai Beach. I've done some very strenuous hikes throughout the world and I love doing that--but the Kalalau is not a favorite of mine. But ... thousands of people do it all the time and only a tiny percentage of them get injured. If you enjoy climbing over boulders, etc ... go for it. It's iconic -- but I still prefer other Kauai hikes.
Of course you "can" accomplish the back and forth driving in one day. I was only pointing out that you'll be adding about an hour driving.
And Lookin_Glass -- while I mostly write on the lanai during the 3 - 4 months I now spend in paradise each year, my sister visits every summer, and DP spends a few weeks, and I love playing tour guide, so we've done virtually every Kauai "must-see" attraction. I've been to all the botanic gardens, done countless spectacular hikes, eaten at many restaurants, probably been to every "secret" beach and cove, taken various Napali boat tours, been to the fabulous Hindu monastery, and more. But that said, everyone has different tastes, and I only have one opinion. Mine just happens to be the correct one ;-). KIDDING!!!
Dec 6th, 2012, 01:17 PM
#24
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If anyone has posted more, useful information about Kauai than Songdoc - I have yet to read it.
Now that doesn't mean everybody has the same opinion, but again, he seems to pretty close to the mark from the many times I have been to Kauai, and he has certainly traveled there a lot more recently than moi.
As for driving up to Ke'e/Haena Park the first afternoon - you could see how it goes and how you feel. My guess is the wonderful scenery would energize you and when you get back to the pad - you would really sleep soundly, and have a huge preview of what you plan to do/see.
We never tire of the sunsets at Ke'e - and if you are lucky - you might catch the green flash. http://tinyurl.com/alk7k96
And I have read elsewhere that the Kalalau trial has not been maintained as it used to be, which is a shame. All the more reason to be careful about picking a good day to hike it - and even then - Kauai can draw in some showers when you might least expect it, so you might also take along a couple small hand towels to wipe of the mud, etc.
Also - as mentioned - we had fun hiking inland from Hanakapi'ai Beach to the waterfall (3? more miles?) - where you definitely had to scramble over some rocks - but you weren't climbing straight up - more of a gentle slope - and when we did it - it was dry, and we were younger and in good shape.
There is a great pool to swim in at the end of that portion of the hike - but I would sure ask around about the condition of the trails before I headed out.
Now that doesn't mean everybody has the same opinion, but again, he seems to pretty close to the mark from the many times I have been to Kauai, and he has certainly traveled there a lot more recently than moi.
As for driving up to Ke'e/Haena Park the first afternoon - you could see how it goes and how you feel. My guess is the wonderful scenery would energize you and when you get back to the pad - you would really sleep soundly, and have a huge preview of what you plan to do/see.
We never tire of the sunsets at Ke'e - and if you are lucky - you might catch the green flash. http://tinyurl.com/alk7k96
And I have read elsewhere that the Kalalau trial has not been maintained as it used to be, which is a shame. All the more reason to be careful about picking a good day to hike it - and even then - Kauai can draw in some showers when you might least expect it, so you might also take along a couple small hand towels to wipe of the mud, etc.
Also - as mentioned - we had fun hiking inland from Hanakapi'ai Beach to the waterfall (3? more miles?) - where you definitely had to scramble over some rocks - but you weren't climbing straight up - more of a gentle slope - and when we did it - it was dry, and we were younger and in good shape.
There is a great pool to swim in at the end of that portion of the hike - but I would sure ask around about the condition of the trails before I headed out.
Dec 6th, 2012, 05:36 PM
#25
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We have been to the Koloa Days parade and fair afterward several times and love it. Lots of good food, hula and music.
As far as Waimea Canyon/Koke'e. I think the views from the Pu'u O Kila lookout at the end of the road past the Kalalau Lookout has more spectacular views of the Kalalau Valley than the Kalalau Lookout. Plus, you can pick up the Pihea Trail here that skirts the actual edge of the Valley. It is my favorite hike on the island. Lots of bang for your buck.
It is nice to have an itinerary, but be prepared to toss it our the window of your rental car once you start feeling the aloha.
As far as Waimea Canyon/Koke'e. I think the views from the Pu'u O Kila lookout at the end of the road past the Kalalau Lookout has more spectacular views of the Kalalau Valley than the Kalalau Lookout. Plus, you can pick up the Pihea Trail here that skirts the actual edge of the Valley. It is my favorite hike on the island. Lots of bang for your buck.
It is nice to have an itinerary, but be prepared to toss it our the window of your rental car once you start feeling the aloha.
Dec 7th, 2012, 05:09 AM
#26
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Bring plenty of bug spray for the sunsets at any of the north shore beaches. If it is breezy, it won't be as bad. Lumahai (the main, non-swimmable part) is open to the breezes and is a good place to watch the sunset.
The tavern restaurant at the Princeville Golf Club has good, moderately priced food (for Kauai) and sunset views just as good if not better than at the St. Regis.
The tavern restaurant at the Princeville Golf Club has good, moderately priced food (for Kauai) and sunset views just as good if not better than at the St. Regis.
Dec 10th, 2012, 10:03 AM
#27
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We include hiking in a lot of our vacations and I have to say that the Nu'alolo/Cliffs/Awa'awapuhi Loop may be my favorite all time hike.
We woke up to a clear morning and headed out to Waimea Canyon. The drive up Canyon Rd. is beautiful. We parked at the Kokee Lodge and started down the Nu'alolo. It starts through a forest but after walking a couple miles, it opens to a ridge with great views.
At about 3 miles, you come to the intersection of the Nu'alolo and Cliffs Trails. Before heading across the cliffs, walk out to Lolo Vista. It is a narrow trail that runs out to the edge of the cliff. The view there is breathtaking. You look down at the Nu'alolo Valley and then out at the NaPali Coast. We loved the sign "Trail ends here" right on the edge of the cliff. We waved to people below us in helicopters.
We walked back to the Cliffs Trail, which was actually somewhat washed out and a bit scary--it would have been helpful to have our trekking poles. Once we got past that scary part, there was no going back. We stopped and had lunch and enjoyed the fabulous views.
There are trail markers about .25 mi. apart but we did seem to lose the trail somewhere in the woods and added about another mile to our hike. We backtracked and found more mile markers.
The Awa'awapui Lookout was our next stop. Here we ran into another couple taking a break and enjoying the view. We only saw 6 other hikers the whole day.
The rest of the hike was uphill and I took it pretty slow. This part of the trail was difficult for me but I would definitely hike this trail again if we return. I now use trekking poles and can't believe what a difference they make.
The end of the trail is about 1 1/2 miles from where you park your car--but all downhill. Someone coming from the overlook actually offered us a ride as it was starting to sprinkle.
We started this hike at 11AM and ended at 5PM. We took our time. We did a lot of lingering on the trail as we enjoyed the fantastic views of the NaPali Cliffs.
We also hiked the first 2 miles of the Kalalau Trail a couple days later. I would also recommend this trail. We didn't find it difficult at all. It follows the coastal trail, climbs a bit and then heads down to Hanakapi'ai Beach. It had great views of the valley out across the ocean and up the coast. We were there in February so we even saw whales. It didn't have the "on top of the world" spectacular cliffs' views of the other trail. We probably should have hiked this trail first.
After hiking the Kalalau Trail, you can spend some time just relaxing and having lunch at Ke'e Beach.
We woke up to a clear morning and headed out to Waimea Canyon. The drive up Canyon Rd. is beautiful. We parked at the Kokee Lodge and started down the Nu'alolo. It starts through a forest but after walking a couple miles, it opens to a ridge with great views.
At about 3 miles, you come to the intersection of the Nu'alolo and Cliffs Trails. Before heading across the cliffs, walk out to Lolo Vista. It is a narrow trail that runs out to the edge of the cliff. The view there is breathtaking. You look down at the Nu'alolo Valley and then out at the NaPali Coast. We loved the sign "Trail ends here" right on the edge of the cliff. We waved to people below us in helicopters.
We walked back to the Cliffs Trail, which was actually somewhat washed out and a bit scary--it would have been helpful to have our trekking poles. Once we got past that scary part, there was no going back. We stopped and had lunch and enjoyed the fabulous views.
There are trail markers about .25 mi. apart but we did seem to lose the trail somewhere in the woods and added about another mile to our hike. We backtracked and found more mile markers.
The Awa'awapui Lookout was our next stop. Here we ran into another couple taking a break and enjoying the view. We only saw 6 other hikers the whole day.
The rest of the hike was uphill and I took it pretty slow. This part of the trail was difficult for me but I would definitely hike this trail again if we return. I now use trekking poles and can't believe what a difference they make.
The end of the trail is about 1 1/2 miles from where you park your car--but all downhill. Someone coming from the overlook actually offered us a ride as it was starting to sprinkle.
We started this hike at 11AM and ended at 5PM. We took our time. We did a lot of lingering on the trail as we enjoyed the fantastic views of the NaPali Cliffs.
We also hiked the first 2 miles of the Kalalau Trail a couple days later. I would also recommend this trail. We didn't find it difficult at all. It follows the coastal trail, climbs a bit and then heads down to Hanakapi'ai Beach. It had great views of the valley out across the ocean and up the coast. We were there in February so we even saw whales. It didn't have the "on top of the world" spectacular cliffs' views of the other trail. We probably should have hiked this trail first.
After hiking the Kalalau Trail, you can spend some time just relaxing and having lunch at Ke'e Beach.
Dec 10th, 2012, 11:15 AM
#28
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Since others are weighing in on the hikes of Kaua'i, I will just say that the Kilauea Lighthouse is my favorite place on the island. It sits on a beautiful bluff and there is also a bird sanctuary. I can stay there for extended periods of time and the vastness of the ocean just takes my breath away.
You can certainly see Wailua Falls and Opaeka'a Falls without any exertion. The look outs to both are very easy to access. Don't miss going as both as worth seeing.
Since you are staying in Kapa'a, if you want a very easy walk or even a bike ride, check out the new bike path.
As wekewoody has said, it is nice to have an itinerary, but it may soon be tossed to the wind. The people of Kaua'i are oozing with aloha.
Have a wonderful time...
btw, I am a little undertall and I did not like hiking even the first two miles of the Kalalau Trail. It started to rain on us and I became a bit frightened from slipping and sliding.
You can certainly see Wailua Falls and Opaeka'a Falls without any exertion. The look outs to both are very easy to access. Don't miss going as both as worth seeing.
Since you are staying in Kapa'a, if you want a very easy walk or even a bike ride, check out the new bike path.
As wekewoody has said, it is nice to have an itinerary, but it may soon be tossed to the wind. The people of Kaua'i are oozing with aloha.
Have a wonderful time...
btw, I am a little undertall and I did not like hiking even the first two miles of the Kalalau Trail. It started to rain on us and I became a bit frightened from slipping and sliding.
