Kauai trip Report
Mar 3rd, 2004, 12:43 PM
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Kauai trip Report
Having gotten married in Oahu almost ten years ago, we couldn?t imagine that Kauai would be that different. Well, it was a lot more than we ever dreamed. We had a nine hour flight from Mpls on first class, where we sat back to enjoy the journey. We misconnected thanks to our TA who only gave us a 45-minute layover and ended up spending the night on Oahu. The following morning, after a short flight where we barely had enough time to drink a cup of coffee, we landed at the Lihu?e airport in Kauai. We grabbed our luggage, which arrived the evening before us, and proceeded to the Avis rent-a-car office. Found out our TA had cancelled the car and it took a while for them to find out she had re-done it under my husband?s name. We were finally able to get on the road and head to Po?ipu. The steep mountains already looked mighty different than the Twin Cities, and we were so excited. About a half hour later we entered paradise. The Hyatt was a wonderful place. Unfortunately, once again, our TA screwed up and made reservations for one week only, instead of two. The Hyatt handled it very professionally. We knew on that first day what a wonderful vacation we were in for. Although it was very sprawled out, we enjoyed the walking we did. We had a room on the sixth floor. Loved the bedspread and matching shower curtain in the bathroom. Breakfast buffet was delicious and my husband said he had never had so much wonderful fruit anywhere.
The waves were big down at the beach and although my husband managed to go in the water, the orange flags were out every day. I personally loved the lagoon. My husband was up for a workout while there and we went to check out the fitness center and spa. Both were amazing.
We filled our days with both adventures and just some days relaxing around the pool and doing the waterslide. The Seaview had entertainment that was very good. It was also a great spot just to sit down and imagine what life would feel like to live there. Here are a few of the highlights we enjoyed the most:
We drove the entire island, from the airport to the south shore to the Waimea canyon and up to the north shore.
We found the roads to Maha?ulepu beach and the Poihale to be full of potholes, but when we actually found them, we were glad we had chosen to go there. Polihale had some big waves; as a result it was popular with the surfers.
.
We actually found the shopping on the south side to be pretty good. Bought everything from Maui Potato chips to Hawaiian shirts in many colors, designs and textures.
Went to the north shore. We stopped at the lighthouse and took a look at the gorgeous views the shoreline had to offer. Quite a sight! The Hanalei valley and their one-lane bridges were very charming. Spectacular beaches. You need to bring lots of water, your camera?s and a whole lot of energy. Enjoyed the caves in Ha?ena. We saw a number of people at the Limahuli stream rinsing off. Beautiful spot. Ke?e beach was at the very end of the north shore. We got there in the afternoon so parking was limited, but we did secure a parking space.
We chose to take a helicopter ride with Jack Harter?s company. Met some people from Chicago. Great people. They assured us it was like floating and that it was an experience we would not want to miss. Our favorite activity, by far, you just cannot go to Kauai without seeing it from the air. Breathtaking views. I was seated in the front next to the pilot. Seating is determined by weight. This helps so that the helicopter is balanced. The heavier customers get the back and the more light customers get the front. I was fine until we ascended over the very steep and rocky canyon and then I shook for a moment. It was spectacular though and the hour and the money you spend to enjoy the scenery over the island before heading back down is so worthwhile. We recommend that you take the helicopter ride first and then drive around the island.
There are signs around Wailua Falls stating that people have fallen and died. If you just stand there, and don?t climb over the fences, you?re fine.
We headed up the canyon and were in awe by the canyon itself, the red dirt and the out of this world scenery. We were amazed at all the different landscapes we encountered on Kauai and this was just one more. I have been to the Grand Canyon before, however, my husband had not. I could not believe the similarities. The grand canyon of the pacific certainly make it?s own claim for beauty and wonder. The narrow road winds up higher and higher. Being someone who doesn?t care for heights, I was happy not to be on the road with any of the big buses we saw going down as we were going up.
Places we ate (and the reason I weigh ten pounds more):
Neide?s - where we had the restaurant to ourselves. We found that we had the best Margarita?s we had ever had in our lives. The tacos and burritos were the ultimate in Mexican food.
Tidepools ?twice ? loved their thatch roof, the lagoon, and the tiki torches. Onion soup is VERY yummy and comes in a huge bowl with four cheeses.
Brick Oven ? Some of the best pizza we?ve ever had. The garlic crust is a must.
Barbecue Inn ? Tasty Teriyaki Chicken sandwiches, coleslaw, fruit cups,
Iced tea and pies
Dondero?s ? Fettuccine Con Pollo was prepared very well, although the Tiramisu had too much of the espresso going on
Roy?s ?Smaller portions, but very well prepared Shrimp Salad and ribs. Topped it off with the Chocolate Soufflé. Our waiter even gave us the recipe
Beach House ? Beautiful sunset and very good Asparagus salad and pork chops, but the Chocolate soufflé was disappointing as was the service. We got our photo taken by the house photographer.
Jo-Jo?s ? Huge portions of Shave Ice and an outstanding flavor
Wranglers- Pepper steak, fresh salad bar, mashed potatoes, vegetables and mud pie that was done wonderfully well.
Shells ? First of all, I need to mention the Point bar. We had a few ?umbrella drinks?, which we swore we must have to truly be on Hawaiian vacation, my husband?s favorite being the Blue Hawaiian and my choice being a Margarita. Not quite so tropical, but hey, it?s what I wanted and it was my vacation, right? Very memorable view and fun bartenders. I had a salad, chicken, potatoes and a vegetable in the restaurant. All good.
Tomcats ? twice ? Loved the beer battered mahi-mahi and the Mac salad. Second time, I had the Pastrami sandwich. A little tough, but still good.
Duke?s ? A lot of food! Wonderful salad bar and good seafood. I love salad bars, so overdid it and had a tough time eating my entrée.
Camp House ? Was a little more expensive than what we thought it was worth, but the food was good and the service was quick
Keoki?s ? Big plants, the waterfalls, thatched roof all the stuff I like, plus great prime rib! The Hyatt gave us free coupons for the Hula Pie. It was huge and delicious!
Ilima Terrace ? They were only open three nights a week, but everything on the menu looked good. Delicious Shrimp cocktail, the Reuben sandwiches were to die for and my husband and I had a fork fight over the Chocolate Lovers dessert, which he claimed he was too full to eat!
We still have that weary jet lag feeling, but are so happy we went that we still have smiles on our faces.
The waves were big down at the beach and although my husband managed to go in the water, the orange flags were out every day. I personally loved the lagoon. My husband was up for a workout while there and we went to check out the fitness center and spa. Both were amazing.
We filled our days with both adventures and just some days relaxing around the pool and doing the waterslide. The Seaview had entertainment that was very good. It was also a great spot just to sit down and imagine what life would feel like to live there. Here are a few of the highlights we enjoyed the most:
We drove the entire island, from the airport to the south shore to the Waimea canyon and up to the north shore.
We found the roads to Maha?ulepu beach and the Poihale to be full of potholes, but when we actually found them, we were glad we had chosen to go there. Polihale had some big waves; as a result it was popular with the surfers.
.
We actually found the shopping on the south side to be pretty good. Bought everything from Maui Potato chips to Hawaiian shirts in many colors, designs and textures.
Went to the north shore. We stopped at the lighthouse and took a look at the gorgeous views the shoreline had to offer. Quite a sight! The Hanalei valley and their one-lane bridges were very charming. Spectacular beaches. You need to bring lots of water, your camera?s and a whole lot of energy. Enjoyed the caves in Ha?ena. We saw a number of people at the Limahuli stream rinsing off. Beautiful spot. Ke?e beach was at the very end of the north shore. We got there in the afternoon so parking was limited, but we did secure a parking space.
We chose to take a helicopter ride with Jack Harter?s company. Met some people from Chicago. Great people. They assured us it was like floating and that it was an experience we would not want to miss. Our favorite activity, by far, you just cannot go to Kauai without seeing it from the air. Breathtaking views. I was seated in the front next to the pilot. Seating is determined by weight. This helps so that the helicopter is balanced. The heavier customers get the back and the more light customers get the front. I was fine until we ascended over the very steep and rocky canyon and then I shook for a moment. It was spectacular though and the hour and the money you spend to enjoy the scenery over the island before heading back down is so worthwhile. We recommend that you take the helicopter ride first and then drive around the island.
There are signs around Wailua Falls stating that people have fallen and died. If you just stand there, and don?t climb over the fences, you?re fine.
We headed up the canyon and were in awe by the canyon itself, the red dirt and the out of this world scenery. We were amazed at all the different landscapes we encountered on Kauai and this was just one more. I have been to the Grand Canyon before, however, my husband had not. I could not believe the similarities. The grand canyon of the pacific certainly make it?s own claim for beauty and wonder. The narrow road winds up higher and higher. Being someone who doesn?t care for heights, I was happy not to be on the road with any of the big buses we saw going down as we were going up.
Places we ate (and the reason I weigh ten pounds more):
Neide?s - where we had the restaurant to ourselves. We found that we had the best Margarita?s we had ever had in our lives. The tacos and burritos were the ultimate in Mexican food.
Tidepools ?twice ? loved their thatch roof, the lagoon, and the tiki torches. Onion soup is VERY yummy and comes in a huge bowl with four cheeses.
Brick Oven ? Some of the best pizza we?ve ever had. The garlic crust is a must.
Barbecue Inn ? Tasty Teriyaki Chicken sandwiches, coleslaw, fruit cups,
Iced tea and pies
Dondero?s ? Fettuccine Con Pollo was prepared very well, although the Tiramisu had too much of the espresso going on
Roy?s ?Smaller portions, but very well prepared Shrimp Salad and ribs. Topped it off with the Chocolate Soufflé. Our waiter even gave us the recipe
Beach House ? Beautiful sunset and very good Asparagus salad and pork chops, but the Chocolate soufflé was disappointing as was the service. We got our photo taken by the house photographer.
Jo-Jo?s ? Huge portions of Shave Ice and an outstanding flavor
Wranglers- Pepper steak, fresh salad bar, mashed potatoes, vegetables and mud pie that was done wonderfully well.
Shells ? First of all, I need to mention the Point bar. We had a few ?umbrella drinks?, which we swore we must have to truly be on Hawaiian vacation, my husband?s favorite being the Blue Hawaiian and my choice being a Margarita. Not quite so tropical, but hey, it?s what I wanted and it was my vacation, right? Very memorable view and fun bartenders. I had a salad, chicken, potatoes and a vegetable in the restaurant. All good.
Tomcats ? twice ? Loved the beer battered mahi-mahi and the Mac salad. Second time, I had the Pastrami sandwich. A little tough, but still good.
Duke?s ? A lot of food! Wonderful salad bar and good seafood. I love salad bars, so overdid it and had a tough time eating my entrée.
Camp House ? Was a little more expensive than what we thought it was worth, but the food was good and the service was quick
Keoki?s ? Big plants, the waterfalls, thatched roof all the stuff I like, plus great prime rib! The Hyatt gave us free coupons for the Hula Pie. It was huge and delicious!
Ilima Terrace ? They were only open three nights a week, but everything on the menu looked good. Delicious Shrimp cocktail, the Reuben sandwiches were to die for and my husband and I had a fork fight over the Chocolate Lovers dessert, which he claimed he was too full to eat!
We still have that weary jet lag feeling, but are so happy we went that we still have smiles on our faces.
Mar 3rd, 2004, 03:54 PM
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We'll be there at the Hyatt in June. Thank you for the great report. When you were on the north shore did you wish you had chosen accommodations there (like the Princeville) or were you still pleased with your choice of Poipu? Would you stay at the Hyatt again? What flavor of shave ice did you get at Jo Jo's?
Mar 4th, 2004, 05:35 AM
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Hi Crazy4Hawaii,
We remained very happy with our choice in Poipu. We bounced back and forth with choosing for several weeks and went with Poipu because of the the southern location in the winter. I did forget to mention that we also ate at Cafe Hanalei at the Princeville hotel. Although it had a lot of marble, you could have been anywhere, USA. We wouldn't have wanted that in Kauai. We were also very surprised at how much maint. was needed and the lack of cleanliness in the areas of the hotel that we saw. Aditionally, the staff seemed snooty. We LOVED the Hyatt. Very lush, beautiful grounds and we will go back again and again. I got the #1 at Jo-Jo's, which was the Tropical. Perfect afternoon treat. My husband didn't order anything assuming it was like a snowcone, but after eating a bite of mine, went in and ordered a large one!
We remained very happy with our choice in Poipu. We bounced back and forth with choosing for several weeks and went with Poipu because of the the southern location in the winter. I did forget to mention that we also ate at Cafe Hanalei at the Princeville hotel. Although it had a lot of marble, you could have been anywhere, USA. We wouldn't have wanted that in Kauai. We were also very surprised at how much maint. was needed and the lack of cleanliness in the areas of the hotel that we saw. Aditionally, the staff seemed snooty. We LOVED the Hyatt. Very lush, beautiful grounds and we will go back again and again. I got the #1 at Jo-Jo's, which was the Tropical. Perfect afternoon treat. My husband didn't order anything assuming it was like a snowcone, but after eating a bite of mine, went in and ordered a large one!
Mar 4th, 2004, 09:17 AM
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Thanks for the great trip report. My husband and I are going to Kauui in Oct. for my 50th birthday. We can't make up our minds if we should stay in the north like at the Hanali Colony Resort or in the South. I am leary of chain resorts afraid they won't feel very "hawaiian". Did you think the Hyatt had a hawaiian feel? How long did it take you to drive to the norht shore? We absolutely intend to take a hellicopter ride and I plan to lose an additional 5 lbs before I go so I can gain weight and not worry 
I just hope I don't gain too much.
Kay
I just hope I don't gain too much.Kay
Mar 5th, 2004, 11:54 AM
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Hi Kaymit,
We actually stopped at a few places and looked around for a future trip with friends who can't afford the Hyatt. One of them was Hanaei Colony resort. October would be high seaon and their rates were anywhere from $195 - $335 a night, depending on the type of condo, with the seventh night free.We weren't actually able to view any of them, but they looked nice from the outside. We went in and talked to the office people and they had a weekly calendar of events and other things that they shared with us and were quite helpful. The Hyatt had a very Hawaaian feel to it. It was nice. It was a casual type of hotel - lots of t-shirts, etc. It took us maybe an hour and 15 minutes to get to the north shore. Jack Harter did a great job for us, actually Chris did as he was our pilot. Enjoy and don't worry too much about the weight. You do a lot of walking. It's just the appetizers (like the crab cakes) do you in. But it is so worth it!
We actually stopped at a few places and looked around for a future trip with friends who can't afford the Hyatt. One of them was Hanaei Colony resort. October would be high seaon and their rates were anywhere from $195 - $335 a night, depending on the type of condo, with the seventh night free.We weren't actually able to view any of them, but they looked nice from the outside. We went in and talked to the office people and they had a weekly calendar of events and other things that they shared with us and were quite helpful. The Hyatt had a very Hawaaian feel to it. It was nice. It was a casual type of hotel - lots of t-shirts, etc. It took us maybe an hour and 15 minutes to get to the north shore. Jack Harter did a great job for us, actually Chris did as he was our pilot. Enjoy and don't worry too much about the weight. You do a lot of walking. It's just the appetizers (like the crab cakes) do you in. But it is so worth it!
