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  • Exciting New Options in Kilauea Kauai

    Kilauea town has risen from a sleepy town into more of a bustling marketplace. Many locals felt it would ruin the town with the introduction of the new shopping center, but it has only brought life and business to the north shore. The construction was tastefully completed and there is a nice island style vibe that feels clean and fresh. The area has brought thoughtfully designed shops own by small local businesses. A favorite new restaurant is Avalon Gastropub which was finished beautifully with live edge slab tables and bar top. They have the largest selection of fine liquors in the state. Kauai Juice also has a new shop and offers fresh pressed juices, kombucha, and local and organic prepared foods. Don’t miss Kilauea Fish Market for an ono fish wrap and be sure to stop into Kai Bar and Trilogy Coffee! Consider a peek into Kilauea Jewelry and Kilauea Surf and Skate for a gift or treat.. #where to eat north shore Kauai, #Kilauea Restaurant, # Kilauea marketplace

  • Pine Trees Beach, Hanalei Bay

    Hanalei Bay has been declared one of the most beautiful beaches in the world. Here are a few tips for a visit to the popular breach. For those looking for a less crowded beach try Pine Trees Beach, a secton of this famous spot on Kauai. Keep in mind that Hanalei Bay approximately two miles long and 125 feet wide. The beach is located between Hanalei River to the east and Waipa River to the west. Pine Trees is located at the Northern end of Hanalei Bay and a good choice for enjoying the sun with a break on the spacious grassy areas. Parking is off Kee and Ama Ama Street and shaded grassy areas are to both sides.. Pines or Wai`oli Beach is home to a lifeguard station, a perfect backdrop for a photo and a sign of beach safety with te dedication of our Kauai Lifeguards. The beach is known for surfing. As always, check beach conditions that vary from surf up for beginners to the world class surfers. Take a surf lesson, plan to swim, paddle or walk the beach. The Hanalei Pier is being repaired but the area is still worth the walk. The mountain peaks are spectacular and the sunset is unparralled. Perfect for memories. Be sure to grab your beach supplies and reef friendly sun screen. Come home to Hale Kokio Cottage Rental after a great day on Kauai. NOTE Hawaii’s law banning the sale of over-the-counter sunscreens containing oxybenzone and octinoxate in order to protect Hawaii’s marine environment goes into effect on Friday, New Year’s Day. The ban, which was signed into law by Gov. David Ige in the summer of 2018 after the passage of a legislative bill, was scheduled to go into effect three years later. The bill was supported by numerous environmental groups and opposed by retail and health industry representatives.

  • Hanalei Bay: The Beach, the Parks and the Magic

    Hanalei Bay may be the most popular beach on Kauai. Each time I visit this beautiful place on the North Shore of Kauai, I am surprised to find new way to see the simple beauty of this two mile crescent stretch of beach. For me, on this particular day, the beach, parks, mountains and ocean showed up in a spectacular way. Just a few steps onto the Hanalei Pavilion Beach a piece of the usual pink flowering vine greeted me.. A pretty good welcome, considering the devastation to Hanalei left by the floods of 2018, That set the theme of this visit, to look for any artifact to share with new travelers to this beach. Most challenging was trying to etch and catch "Hanalei Bay" at the oceans edge before a set of waves washed it away. There are two stretches along Hanalei Bay that have Beach Parks with picnic tables, wide grassy areas to lounge in the shade, restrooms and parking areas. There are two lifeguard stations on the Bay, Hanalei Pavilion and Pine Trees. The Hanalei Pavillion is located at the smaller section of Waioli Beach Park and has one parking lot. Pine Trees is located further down on the second and larger Park. There are two parking lots for this area of Hanalei Bay. Black Pot Beach, also located on Hanalei bay is located between the mouth of the Hanalei River and the Hanalei Pier. This is where you will find surf and paddle board rentals and lessons. The new parking lot and park opened in mid 2019. Parking is directly off Weke Road, Restrooms are in the process of being rebuilt. There are portable restrooms in the interim. If you are driving to or taking the Kauai North Shore Shuttle to Lumahi Beach, Tunnels, Haena Beach Park or Ke'e Beach you will catch a glimpse of Halanei Bay from the road. There is a tiny bit of beach there, parking is very limited and beach access is difficult. Hanalei Beach is known for great surfing in the winter and is a swimmer's delight in the summer. Summertime is the time for boating. This is also the time of year to sechedule a cruise leaving from Halanei Bay. There is no better way to view the Napali Coast, go out for a snorkeling adventure or a romantic Sunset Cruise. Note that cruises are also available year round from Port Allen. The Bay and its activities change by the season. Hanalei Bay is back from from the flood. Come to Kauai. Bring your spirit of Aloha to this magical place. Hanalei Bay is fourteen miles from Hale Kokio Vacation Rental. We are happy to share what we know and love about Kauai to travelers to North Shore Kauai. #HanaleiBay #NorthShoreKauai #blackpotbeach #HanaleiPavilion #PineTrees #WailoaBeachPark #KauaiBeaches #HanaleiBayCrusies

  • Ke'e Beach and Kalalau Trail: Welcome to the Napali Coast

    The Napali Coast is one of the most dramatically beautiful places on earth. Located on the North Shore of Kauai, the drive north of Hanalei, on route 56, brings you to Ke'e Beach, the Kalalau Trail and the Napali Coast. You have the option to drive to this spot or to take the Kauai North Shore Shuttle. Keep in mind that the necessary parking and park entry permits and shuttle reservations are very popular. Be sure to plan your trip well in advance. Ke'e Beach marks the start of the Napali Coast and the head of the Kalalau Trail. The parking area and Shuttle Drop Off point are just a few steps to the pathway for entry to the Park. The path is well marked. Ke'e Beach is half a mile in, and a short distance more brings you face to face with the KalalauTrailhead. Keep in mind this trail very challenging.The Kalalau Trail leads to Hanakapi'ai and Kalalau Beaches. Day hiking to Hanakapi'ai Valley is about four miles round trip is allowed for visitors holding the park entry ticket. The Napali Coast Wilderness Park and the Kalalau Trail are well known by experienced hikers and those loving wildlife. Overnight camping permits are reserved through the State of Hawaii Division of Parks Be sure to inquire about the permits well ahead of your stay on Kauai. Recently Announced is that hikers/campers will be able to leave their vehicles at the Ha'ena State Park parking lot overnight with the appropriate parking pass. Transportation to Ke'e Beach and the Kalalua Trail can be reserved through Kauai North Shore Shuttle. Use the map below to view the route and stops along the North Shore Shuttle. The schedule of stops is updated on a regular basis. The stop at Tunnels Beach and Haena Beach has been added to the schedule of shuttle stops. Tunnels is known for magnficent snorkeling with both small and large fish. Please do use your reef safe sunscreen and do not stop on the reef. A bit further down the road and on the right hand side of the road is Ha'ena Beach. This is a lifeguarded beach. Take the time to walk the this beach. A special view awaits you. HINTS for EXPLORING KAUAI NORTH SHORE (RT 560/56) 1. Plan ahead and review the options for transportation. Expect that traffic may be a bit heavy and from time to time. 2. Pay attention to the time for catching the return by shuttle. Boarding the return shuttle is on a first come, first serve basis. The last shuttles run at 5PM. 3. If you decide to drive keep in mind you will need to secure a parking permit and admission to the park in advance. Tickets cannot be purchased at the park. 4.. Pack water, food, sunscreen and beach equipment. 5. Use only reef safe sunscreen at this and all beaches on Kauai. 6. Bring the spirit of aloha, respect for nature and gratitude for the beauty of the Napali Coast. New limits on numbers of visitors per day are necessary to preserve this area. 7. Tunnels Beach and Haena Beach, do not require beach entry permits. The option of driving to Tunnels is open, be aware that parking will fill up quickly during the day. The stop has recently added to the route.. For detial see North Shore Shuttle 8. The Limuhuli Garden and Preserve is located along Hwy 560. If you plan to visit be sure to purchase a ticket for the self guided tour. If you driving be sure to have a parking permit in advance. Original Post: June 2019 Announcement of Opening of Ha'ena Beach and State Parks and Wilderness Park - June 2019 The North Shore of Kauai is known for its dramatic beauty, none more spectacular than the Napali Coast. The April 2018 devastating flooding washed out the roads leading to and the infrastructure of Ha'ena and Napali Coast Hawaii State Parks. For nearly one year travel North of Hanalei was restricted so that repairs could be made. Last month the Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources announced the reopening of these two State Parks. The Hanalei Initiative announced the shuttle reservation system for transportation to the Parks and stops along the way on June 2019. This will likely be the most convenient way to travel to the amazing spots between Hanalei and the northernmost end of the road (Route 560). Starting June 17, 2019 reservations for the North Shore Shuttle and the purchase park entry tickets will open. Actual travel via the shuttle begins on June 21. #HikingNapaliCoast #Ke'eBeach #HaenaBeach #KalalauTrail #NorthShoreKauaiShuttle #TunnelsBeach

  • Lumaha'i Beach on North Shore Kauai

    Lumaha'i Beach is known for dramatic waves and beautiful scenery. This photo highlights the area of the beach where the Lumahai river meets the stream. You will often find local residents swimming there in the summer when the conditions are calm. The beach is divided into the Kahalahala and Lumahai sections, The Lumahai section to the west is open to the strong ocean currents. The eastern side, Kahalahala, is protected by rocks and is relaltively calm. This Kauai Beach is loved for relaxation and beach walks, and not water activities. If you visit in the winter months take care and stay above the basalt ledge that is swept by the very strong surf and undercurrents. It can look safe for a moment and then suddenly be covered by a wall of water. As always,. If in doubt about swimming conditions at any Kauaii Beach check for beach conditions. The beach parking lot is on the Lumahai or west side of the beach, Bring your beach chairs and set up in the shade of the lava walls The beach walk is two miles round trip in soft sand, prepared for a good workout. The sound of the crashing waves, the challenge of skipping over the clusters of rocks and the unique vegetation all add to the setting for one of the best beach walks on Kauai. This spectacular Kauai beach is one of the great spots on the North Shore. The beach became better known after the filming of the movie, South Pacific in 1958.. Hint: Visit Lumahuli Botanical Garden about 4 miles north Hint: If you are interested in visiting Ke'e Beach you will need a parking and beach entry ticket prior to your visit. Parking is limited. See Kauai North Shore Shuttle for information to purchase the required parking and entry permits. Looking for a place to stay on Kauai? See Hale Kokio, Kauai Cottage Vacation Rental, A Getaway for Two. Perfect for a Kauai Honeymoon #NorthShoreKauaiBeach #LumahaBeach #KauaiBeachWalk #KauaiHoneymoon #KauaiBeaches

  • Kauai Honeymoon: Paradise in Hawaii

    Kauai's North Shore is an unmatchable location for a Kauai Honeymoon. The trade winds and the swaying palms with turquoise waters and ribbons of white sand will etch unforgettable visions in your mind! There are endless romantic Kauai adventures for the two of you. While you may be tempted to spend days on the beach, the beauty of the island and unlimited activities will call to you. Go ahead and create some memories. SEE THE SUNRISE Adjusting to the time change? Grab a cup of coffee at the Hale Kokio Honeymoon Cottage, pictured below, and head drive five minutes to Secrets Beach for a secluded Kauai Sunrise. Head back to the sweet little town of Kilaeua for breakfast. The Kilauea Bakery, Kauai Juice or Trilogy Coffee are surrounded by courtyards RELAX ON A QUIET BEACH Anini Beach stretches along Anini Road in Kilauea where you will find spots to park just off road. Be sure to grab your reef safe sunscreen, beach chairs and pack a lunch. Drive past the beach park and you will find that this quiet section of the beach is one of Kauai's special gems. Relax and restore as you plan another day of romance on your Kauai Honeymoon. This is also a spot for snorkeling so grab the gear at Hale Kokio Vacation Rental Cottage. CATCH THOSE MEMORIES Schedule a natural light photo adventure with Lisa Seed (lisaseed.com). The lead and closing photos featured in this article are her work! There are gorgeous shoot locations everywhere you turn, so be sure to capture your honeymoon memories. LEAVE YOUR FOOTPRINT IN THE SAND An evening walk is the perfect time for a quiet stroll on Hanalei Bay. The sunset is breathtaking and the landscape with shades of green against the ocean show off the magic of Kauai. Take this time to leave your foot prints in the sand. Then head over to one of the Hanalei restaurants for a quiet dinner. Try Bar Acuda or Hanalei Dolphin. GO CRUISING The valleys from Wainiha to Miloli'i to the west are some of the most dramatic and sculpted formations on the earth! Book a tour out of Hanalei Bay for a sunset dinner cruise. You can also book a Sunset Sail with Captain Andy. Be sure to pack a light jacket. ENJOY THE LOCAL CULTURE The Anaina Hou Park in Kilauea offers a Polynesian Fire Show, known as Ahi Lele or "fire dancing." You and your ʻohana are in for a red-hot treat. Wednesday nights at the Pavilion. The show takes you on a journey through the Hawaiin cluture and history with the Kauai Luau, fire dancing storytelling and and beat of Polynesian drumming. GET TO KNOW KAPAA Kauai offers so many adventures set against blue waters, waterfalls, magnificent mountains. Wonder what is hidden behind the buidlings along the highway as you drive through Kapa'a? See it all from the Kauai Bike Path. Start in Kapa'a and continue to to Kealia Beach where you fill find surfers and in winter might sight a whale. This is a four mile round trip section of the path. Be sure to pack water, your camera and sun screen. We are known for taking great care of our guests. Hale Kokio is a Magical, Romantic Kauai Vacation Cottage on North Shore Kauai. For information contact us We wish you the very best on your Kauai Honeymoon. Many of our guests at Hale Kokio are honeymoon couples. Contact us for more information. If you are planning a small wedding on Kauai the Anaini Hou Park and Pavilion offers a venue not far from our property in Kilauea. #KauaiHoneymoon #romanticKauai #KauaiSnorkeling #Romanticboattrips #firedancing #HanaleiBay #KilaueaRestaurants #KauaiBikePath #KauaiLuau

  • Exciting Kauai Excursions: Waimea Canyon and Koke'e Park

    There are endless excursions on the Garden Island that will etch lasting memories in your mind. The places that you visit will become part of the stories you will share with friends and family! Whether a Kauai Honeymoon, well deserved vacation or special occasion, add a visit to Waimea Canyon and Koke'e Park to your list of Kauai Adventures. If you have researched Kauai, then you likely have read about Waimea Canyon and Koke'e Park. Whether you opt for a challenging outdoor adventure that includes hiking the trails or prefer an easier outing by car with stops at lookout points, you will view natural landscapes like none ever experienced before. So, pack your water, camera, sun screen, snacks, and appropriate footwear and get out there! Waimea Canyon Choosing proper clothing for a Waimea Canyon/Koke'e visit is easy. Make sure you have a light rain jacket and sweatshirt and a good pair of hiking shoes. Bring shorts and a t-shirt as well. While it can be warm, this area can also be cool and misty. The canyon is more open and dry and Koke'e is a cloud forest with a canopy of trees and dense understory. A lightweight pair of pants are a good idea to protect your legs when hiking this area. If you are leaving from Hale Kokio plan on about a 1hr 30 minute drive to the Canyon. There are many lookouts from Waimea Canyon Road. Many of these have restrooms. Most of the lookouts are handicapped accessible. One of the most popular one is the Kalalau lookout. It is the only place on the island where you can see this remote valley via car. On a clear day, you can look down into the valley that is the end point of the 11 mile Na Pali Coast trail. Trails in the canyon range from easy to difficult. Many trailheads can be found off of Koke'e Road, with some, including the Cliff Trail Lookout and the Waipo'o Falls Trail, accessible from the Pu'u Hinahina lookout point. For details of trails see a guide book for full descriptions. Your choice of trail will depend upon the members of your group, the appropriate level of difficulty and the amount of time that you want to allow for the excursion. Waimea Canyon Hiking Guide Kokee State Park While next to Waimea Canyon, Koke'e State Park has a completely different makeup. Koke'e Park occupies thousands of acres of rainforest, (the farther you drive up Koke'e, the colder it gets). Travelers commonly explore the park via car since the main road through Koke'e cuts through the park. Be sure to visit the Kalalau Lookout and the Pu'u O Kila Lookout for stunning views of the Napali Cliffs, above. The forest is full of native plants, such as koa, mokihana berry, ohia lehua, and iliau (similar to Maui's silversword), as well as imports like Australia's eucalyptus and California's redwood. Pigs, goats, and black-tailed deer thrive in the forest. The Koke'e Natural History Museum (tel. 808/335-9975; www.kokee.org), is open daily from 10am to 4pm (free admission). This is the best place to learn about the forest and Alakai Swamp before you set off hiking in the wild. The museum shop has great trail information and local books and maps, including the official park trail map. We recommend getting the Pocket Guide on Native Plants on the Nature Trail for Koke'e State Park A nature walk is the best introduction to this rainforest; it starts behind the museum at the rare Hawaiian koa tree. This easy, self-guided walk of about a quarter mile takes about 20 minutes if you stop and look at all the plants identified along the way. The restaurant at Koke'e Lodge is open for breakfast and lunch daily from 9am to 2:30pm. It has recently changed hands and now offers some great food, an espresso machine, and a bar. For information, contact the State Division of Parks, 3060 Eiwa St., Room 306, Lihue, HI 96766 (tel. 808/274-3444); and the Koke'e Lodge Manager, P.O. Box 819, Waimea, HI 96796 (tel. 808/335-6061). #KauaiAdventures #KokeeStatePark #WaimeaCanyon #WaimeaHikingGuide #KokeeLodge #PuuOKilaLookout #KalalauLookout #HIKINGONKAUAI

  • Kauai Food Trucks

    There has been a food truck revolution on Kauai over the past 5 years. It's fun to be able to get a quick and tasty meal without having to go into a traditional restaurant. Local Kauai food, and creative chefs have mixed up some great new plates Kauai is an island of outdoor adventure, add this to the list! Here are some of our favorites. You will want a choice of Kauai places to eat, so add these to your list of Kauai Restaurants. Hanalei has a number of food trucks on the lot adjacent to the Hanalei liquor store. Continue on HWY 56 toward the center of town and it is on the right. Some of my favorite trucks are Cafe Tumeric (808 631 6310), Fresh Bite, and Trucking Delicious. These owners are using quality ingredients and serving tasty food. If you are on your way from your Kauai Cottage to points north, this is a really convenient stop for you. The Kauai food truck closest to Hale Kokio is Paco's Tacos in Kilauea. These guys have nice Mexican style food and are located in The Healthy Hut's parking lot. Located on Hooku Rd at about mile marker 23 on Kuhio HWY and is 2.5 miles north of Hale Kokio. Kapaa has a food truck court on the north end of town on the ocean side of the highway. This is a great place to stop if you are on your way from the Lihue Airport to your Kauai Vacation Rental. You can get the best organic, Japanese style shave ice at Tege Tege These guys have great stuff and use local fruits for their syrups. They don't use dye, which is really nice. Check out the green tea flavored option. It is served with a scoop of homemade green tea ice cream. yummy... Porky’s in Waimea gets rave reviews for great food and service. Although I have not tried these treats yet, here is the scoop. The menu has three choices, a pineapple infused pork sausage, an all beef hot dog or grilled cheese each with toppings of roasted kalua pork, fresh cut pineapple, grilled onions, or Porky's special bbq sauce. Porky's is a great stop after Waimea Canyon tour or on the road to Lihue to or from the airport. Located 9630 Kaumualii HWY, WAIMEA, HI 96796. Open 11am - 5pm Tuesday through Saturday, $9.50 with a soda. #KauaiFoodTrucks #Kauai

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