Romantic Honeymoon Vacation Rentals In Poipu Beach Kauai Hawaii

Hawaii Airfare Deals. Travel to Kauai

Joe Sylvester — Fri, 11 Jan 2013 21:46:00 +0000

Here is another airfare special as the winter season here in Kauai heats up. As Alaska Air continues to set the air fare standard that other carriers must follow to stay relevant in this market. Everyone is benefiting.

Rounding Makauena Point Towards Poipu Beach to Catch the Best Air Travel to Kauai

Some of the best things to do in Kauai happen in the winter season when there is a tour de force of humpback whales frolicking and enjoying the balmy skies. See are Kauai hiking blogs for great ideas.

Oakland to Kauai from $159 one way including tax

Portland to Kauai from $199 one way including tax

San Jose to Kauai from $159 one way including tax

All can be found here at the Alaska Air site.

Don’t delay, you must purchase tickets by January 17, 2013. Travel dates vary by route so check with the airline.

Best Things To Do In Hawaii | Kauai Hikes

Joe Sylvester — Wed, 02 Jan 2013 17:44:06 +0000

The New Year began yesterday trumpeting majestically on active Northerly trade winds of at least blow you hat off speeds. Not to be outdone, thunderous roars by epic 25 foot waves heralded the January first in the normally placid Hanalei Bay. While one of my best things to do in Hawaii is to enjoy the calm, clear waters of Kauai, I turned my back to the ocean and half hiked, well more strolled to the start of the Okolehao Trail.

The Mahaulepu Trail

While there are many great hikes on Kauai detailed in the many guide books written about this magical land I have compiled a list of Kauai hikes in January guided by the local Sierra Club. These hikes are one of the best Kauai deals for residents and visitors alike.

And here is why. You are with a small group of like minded hikers who enjoy getting out into the open air and have a sense of adventure even if the have hiked a particular trail many times in the past.

These guided tours require a donation of $5 or $1 for non members or members of the Sierra Club. In return there are usually two well informed local guides that point out interesting flora and fauna that would go unnoticed
by most travelers. Learning Hawaiian lore of the area and the uses of plants by ancient peoples enhances the journey.

So, what are you waiting for? Slather on the sunscreen, find a wide brimmed hat, check your camera battery for full charge, and your camera card for empty, and hit the trail.
Here are some of the outings this month, some of which are close to our romantic Kauai vacation rentals.

Turtle Cove Suites

Kealia

January 5: Kealia to Anahola hike a moderate 4.5 miles along Kauai’s eastern shore. Judy Dalton (808-246-8097) who is Kauai’s head of the local chapter of the Sierra Club will lead the hike.

January 13: Mahaulepu coastal walk along the south shore.I have written numerous posts on this walk. The great weather which is typical for the this side of the island, combined with humpback whales at this time of year make this a not to miss adventure. Bring binoculars.

Looking Back Towards Mahaulepu

January 20: North Shore bike ride,… hey sometimes we cruise. This a 18 mile ride from Hanalei town to Ke’e beach. You can rent a bike and helmet from Outfitters Kauai if you are staying on the South Shore or from Coconut Coasters if you are staying on the eastern shore. Call Jane Schmitt at 808-826-6105.

Hiking the Mahaulepu Trail

January 26: Mahaulepu sunset walk. This is not to be missed. You will meet up at 3 pm at Shipwrecks beach adjacent to the Grand Hyatt Kauai for a 3 mile hike to secret caves and space like coral rock formations. Judy Dalton will lead the group, 808-246-8097

We hope you have the time to experience a bit of Kauai and the great outdoors in the company of new friends. You can join the Sierra Club for as little as $15 in the new year and hike Kauai for only $1.

Tell us what you think. Where is your favorite hiking trail in Kauai?

Cheap Tickets | Hawaii Airfare Specials

Joe Sylvester — Tue, 18 Dec 2012 22:00:36 +0000

The bargains continue as the Hawaii / West Coast market has heated up in the past few weeks. Long time kama’aina (old timer), Hawaiian Air has increasingly seen airlines sprouting to vie for a share of the lucrative Hawaiian market.

Along the Cliffs of the Kilauea Point NWR

Depart from San Jose or Oakland on either Hawaiian or Alaska Air and the round trip is only $134 or $151 respectively. This price includes the standard airport taxes.

Travel dates are mid January to mid March. We suggest going to the airlines’ website to view travel fares.

See you in the island. Our March schedule is wide open.

Travel Deal of the Year | Allegiant Air

Joe Sylvester — Thu, 25 Oct 2012 21:15:15 +0000

As we promised in our last post on Hawaii Airfare Specials Allegiant Air has jumped into the Fall Specials arena. Not to be outdone by Hawaiian Airlines they are offering travel deals of the year from west coast cities to Honolulu.

Great Place to Kiss

From the capital city it’s just a short flight over to the land of enchantment, Kauai. All fares listed below are inclusive of tax and are just $198 round trip. You must book by October 231, 2012, for travel dates November 2012 to mid April 2013, except for some listed below. Here they are:

Boise to Honolulu (starts February 9, 2013)
Bellingham to Honolulu
Eugene to Honolulu
Fresno to Honolulu
Las Vegas to Honolulu (starts October 26, 2012)
Phoenix to Honolulu (starts February 7, 2013)
Spokane to Honolulu (starts February 8, 2013)
Santa Maria to Honolulu
Stockton to Honolulu

Along the Cliffs of the Kilauea Point NWR

Cheap Tickets | Travel Deals to Kauai

Joe Sylvester — Sun, 21 Oct 2012 17:48:38 +0000

Hawaiian Airlines has pulled out all the stops for travel between January 8, 2013 and March 6, 2013. It appears that the Fall airline specials will continue into the most desired travel season of Winter.

Atop Pu’u Pihakapu Looking Down into Kipu Kai

The caveat is that tickets must be purchased by October 29, 2012. So there is little time to dawdle. Here is the current list, all prices are quoted for one way and they include taxes and fees:

Los Angeles to all islands: $168 to $174
San Jose or Oakland to all islands: $148 to $154
Pheonix to all islands: $179 to $185
Portland to all islands: $176 to 182
San Francisco to all islands: $168 to $174
Seattle to all islands: $176 to $182

When a single carrier drops their prices this dramatically we usually see competitors matching the fares. We will report any additional travel deals when they come to us.

The winter is a great time to leave the dreary skies of the upper 48 to the sunny skies of the Aloha state. Call us we still have most of March and all of April available.

Opening Day of National Wildlife Refuge Week | Kilauea Point

Joe Sylvester — Wed, 17 Oct 2012 18:26:19 +0000

The opening day of National Wildlife Refuge week at Kilauea Point could not have been more glorious. The sun shone brightly and the cloudless sky above the 203 acre refuge showcased its winged residents with tours and learning tents, as they sailed effortlessly on unseen trade winds.

Hamming it up at Kilauea Point

Every year in October the US Fish and Wildlife proudly celebrates our 556 wildlife refuges throughout the country. It is wonderful opportunity for the department to educate the public on the great work that is being accomplished to preserve native flora and fauna. And to highlight challenges and how the community can help by being aware of changes in their surroundings.

Volunteers Monica, and Peter dressed as the “Conservation President”, Teddy Roosevelt

Without the community’s assistance in reporting sightings of mongoose, the US Fish and Wildlife caught two this year in the Lihue area that were reported by observant citizens. Their help has saved injured shearwaters and Hawaiian Monk Seals too.

The events continue until October 20, 2012. Here is a schedule of events for the remainder of the week. Here are a few snaps from the days event:

Keeping the Children Amused at the Kilauea Point Lighthouse

Moku’ae’ae Rock

Spanish Visitors with Puddles

Kilauea Point | National Wildlife Refuge Week

Joe Sylvester — Thu, 04 Oct 2012 18:38:25 +0000

One of the best things to do in Kauai is to visit the Kilauea Point National Wildlife Refuge in the storybook town of Kilauea. From Lihue, just head north on Kuhio Highway about 24 miles and turn on to Kolo Road and then take the first left onto Kilauea Road. This straight and narrow road will lead to the Kilauea Point Lighthouse and the starting point for an epic afternoon adventure.

The Kilauea Lighthouse from Mokolea Point

We hope you will be visiting the island between October 14 – 21, if so, make a special afternoon at the Kilauea Point NWR. This is when the US Fish and Wildlife Department celebrates National Wildlife Refuge week here on Kauai and at all 556 National Wildlife Refuges throughout the country. Just go wild and celebrate the gift that the natural world has bestowed upon us and learn about the great work being done to preserve wildlife and fauna for future generations.

The Kilauea Point NWR is a 203 acre complex which now encompasses Crater Hill and Mokolea Point on the north east coast of the island. Included in this wildlife sanctuary is the historic Kilauea Point Lighthouse. The lighthouse was erected in 1913 to guide ships through the shifting currents and shallow reef that embraces this part of the coast. The structure is currently receiving a much needed restoration, but don’t let that stop you from visiting. The full time and part time residents will be disappointed

Hawaiian Nene Geese

Enjoy exhilarating sights of native and migratory seabirds floating effortlessly on rising currents of air against a brilliant sky. See Laysan albatrosses with their giant wingspans playing high above the rocky coast knowing exactly where they left their baby chick in the tangle of scrub hanging tenaciously to the cliff.

If you are observant and a bit fortunate, you will see nesting fledglings of wedge tail shearwaters or ‘A’o as the Hawaiians referred to them, adjacent to the walkways leading to the Lighthouse, patiently waiting for the return of their parents who will leave the new arrival for up to 5 days while on foraging expeditions over the Pacific in search of cephalopods, fish and crustaceans.

Newell Shearwater Chick

Here is a Schedule of Events for the upcoming week celebration of National Wildlife Refuge Week:

Sunday, October 14- Fun Day from 10am till 4pm the refuge will waive the $5 adult fee. Meet other conservation groups who will discuss their efforts in protecting Hawaiian Monk Seal in light of efforts by some to take the seal off the endangered species list.

Important work is being done to save native Hawaiian coastal plants like the Alula
from extinction.

Monday, October 15- Crater Hill Hike, 9am till 12 pm A strenuous 3 hour hike to see wildlife just being wild.

Tuesday, October 16- Hule’ia Kayak Adventure At the Hule’ia National Wildlife Refuge 8am till 12 pm. Outfitters Kauai will handle all kayak tours for this special event. You can call them toll free at 888.742.9887 to reserve a space.

Along the Cliffs of the Kilauea Point NWR

Wednesday, October 17 and Saturday, October 20- Crater Hill and Mokolea Hike 5 hours, strenuous. Enjoy the afternoon with Gary Smith as he talks about his life growing up in rural Kilauea during the hey day of King Cane.

Thursday, October 18 - Hanalei NWR Bird Tour, 8 am till 11 am. Observe endangered water birds with Refuge Biologist Kim Uyehara and efforts to restore bird populations in Kauai.

Friday, October 19- Hawaii Seabirds and Climate Change Hike from 9am till Noon. Join Biologist Beth Flint on a moderately strenuous hike to a remote part of the refuge to learn about the effects of climate change on native and migratory birds.

Movie Night at Kilauea Theater 6pm till 9pm FREE Watch two conservation films created on Kauai.

Saturday, October 20- 10.30am till 1.30pm Wildlife drawing classes with Patrick Ching

What to bring

A telephoto lens or pair of binoculars to help in observing birds tucked into cliffs high above the Pacific is always helpful.

Pack water and sunscreen for the hot fall sun here in Kauai.

Comfortable walking shoes to handle the uneven terrain.

Commercial Activity on Kauai Beaches

Joe Sylvester — Thu, 27 Sep 2012 18:10:28 +0000

How do we balance commercial activities in public areas where visitors and residents flock to enjoy the scenic wonders of Kauai Hawaii? This is the challenge that Lenny Rapozo and the Department of Parks and Recreation are tasked with. Recently Rapozo and his staff have brought forth recommendations to do just that in one of the most visited of Kauai’s public parks.

Vendor Sets Up at Wailua Falls

Until the Federal court decision in June that allowed local governments to regulate commercial activities in public spaces it was impossible to get a permit from the County to offer beach activities to visitors in Kauai. The County was simply dead set against turning some of the most revered and visited of Kauai’s landmarks into commercial hot spots. There were deep divisions within communities on both sides of the argument. Quality of life proponents against all commercial activity, versus the business community that insisted that if there are no jobs there will no quality of life.

To the County’s credit they recognized a need to regulate and develop rules for the number of activities on each park and beach. Unpopular decisions needed to be made. How many commercial operations do we want on a particular beach? Will they be awarded by seniority? Will there be a balance of visitor related activities? Will the permits be exclusive, or will there be rotating vendors offering different services?

Surfboards for Hire at Kiahuna Beach

Difficult questions to be sure. Rapozo and his team held public meetings for the past 9 months around the island to assess the impact to residents and visitors. He welcomed critical input by current unregulated vendors to get their ideas on how to enhance the visitor experience. To a vendor they were all interested in legitimatizing their businesses, some of whom have been providing services for greater than ten years.

Today Rapozo has presented a plan to the Mayor for regulating commercial surfing operations at Black Pot Beach Park, one of three parks fronting Hanalei Bay. They are:

* Interested commercial applicants must apply for a commercial permit to operate
* No commercial boating and surfing activities on Sunday
* Hours of operation from Monday through Saturday from 7 am to 7 pm

The Mayor has 10 days to make a decision on these recommendations. It is our belief that he will approve the counsel of the Department of Parks and Recreation.

Regulating Commercial Activity in Kauai Beaches

Tell us what you think about commercial activities at scenic Kauai landmarks. Are they good for the island and the visitor industry?

High Surf Advisory | Big Waves Hit Kauai

Joe Sylvester — Tue, 25 Sep 2012 01:14:23 +0000

The first northerly swell of the 2012 winter season has arrived. Welcome relief to all the big wave riders that have seen a less than spectacular summer surf season on the southern shores of Kauai Hawaii. While calm ocean conditions are ideal for snorkelers and the majority of visitors to the island, it’s the big waves of Kauai that many local surfers pray for.

Catching a Wave At Kalihiwai

Legendary surf spots with names like Hanalei Bay, Cannons and Dump Trucks, where exposed outside reefs see the largest waves, some in the 15-18 feet range today. Kalihiwai saw big waves generated from this North by North West swell too, an ocean surge that peaked early this morning and will gradually wane during the course of the week.

Not being a surfer I am keenly aware of when the big waves make their appearance on the North Shore. If I am lucky I will receive a text from my contractor announcing the big event, followed by, I can’t make it to work for the next couple of days.

Ride the Wild Surf

Having lived here for quite a number of years I have learned to accept this job disruption. Coming to understand that for surfers, there are few events on Kauai that energize them to a level where they will forsake work to ride these mountains of rolling energy. Rugged individuals that have a different set of priorities in their lives, somewhat anomalous to my own.

I smile to myself recognizing that these surfers, professional beach boys, and sun worshipers give this island a panache that began in the early 1960′s and endures to this day. Free spirits that come to test their wave riding skills, and where conformity is as abhorrent as a corporate career.

Oft times I believe this disruption in my plans is a test. Am I learning to accept what can not be altered and treating it with equanimity? Yes. Well, a great number of times yes. However, I’m not entirely there yet but admittedly it is an lesson easier learned on Kauai than probably anywhere else in the world. Don’t forget! I remind myself. The very lack of conformity was one of the reasons you decided to stay more than 30 years ago.

Hiking the Okolehao Trail | Kauai Hikes

Joe Sylvester — Wed, 19 Sep 2012 20:35:03 +0000

The start to the Okolehao Trail lies down a narrow picturesque road that leaves you wondering if you’re trespassing along a private driveway. Between taro fields and the grassy bank of the Hanalei river that threatens to swallow your car with an errant turn. Posted warning signs of Children Playing, and Do Not Block Driveway, further convince you of your mistake.

A Juvenile Black Crowned Night Heron Hunting

Don’t surrender to these obstacles, continue on as you approach the Hanalei Wildlife Refuge. Native Hawaiian birds go about their routine oblivious to camera toting wildlife lovers. Tending to their clutches or searching for a meal of insects and algae in the ponds of swaying taro. Endangered Hawaiian coastal fowl are attracted to this watery environment that wetland taro thrives in.

Hawaiian Moorhen Family in a Recently Planted Taro Field

Hug the side of the road as if you wish you hadn’t declined that collision protection insurance on your rental car and stop to enjoy the show. It’s not uncommon to see Gallinules with their offspring sharing the kalo lo’i or taro ponds with Night Crowned Black Herons, Terns, and Coots just next to this stripe of road that leads to the trail head about one half mile past the historic Hanalei Bridge.

How the Trail Got Its name
Legend tells of illegal stills being operated along the trail during the dark days of Prohibition. Enterprising locals produced an intoxicating moonshine or Okolehao in the Hawaiian language, from Cordyline fruiticosa, commonly known as the Ti plant. The offending stills have long since vanished but the shade covered path remains for you to discover.

The trail starts at an easy grade amidst a forest of mangrove trees with their jumbled aerial roots spreading in all directions gaining a foothold in the damp earth. The winding path, directly out of central casting for a Scandinavian film noir quickly straightens, pointing up the side of the Hihimanu Ridge and the cardiovascular workout begins and lame metaphors end.

Lichen Covered Log Along the Trail

Gnarly Milo and eucalyptus trees with emerald colored lichen remind me of a comfy resting place for the Menehune who were no doubt protecting those distilleries of long ago.

Between heavy breaths I notice subtle climatic changes along the trail. From still humid air at sea level to cool trades that are welcome relief at higher elevations.

Tangled Web of Buttress Roots Along the Trail

The trail is crisscrossed by step like buttress roots of Eucalyptus robusta, an import from Australia. Offering some aid in climbing the steeper parts of the trail, but soon become obstacles reminding me to lift my tired legs if I want to avoid a muddy fall.

Strawberry Guava Along the Trail

When the tree line thins at higher elevation the ubiquitous Strawberry guava, Psidium cattleianum, crowds out most other trees on the trail. If you’re hiking in the late summer you will be rewarded with delicious fruit bursting with flavor and delivering high amounts of vitamin C to a grateful traveler.

The Peaceful Town of Hanalei

The last lookout at 1232 feet in elevation you are rewarded with a view that can only be described as ‘fairy tale’ in appearance. Olive colored taro fields create a patchwork that beckons you to find symmetry in the maze of its borders. Tiny Hanalei town rests peacefully protected by this green blanket of soon to be Hawaiian poi and the blue water of the Pacific. A refreshing composition.

Best Time To Hike
It’s best to hike the trail when it is dry. Afternoon showers are typical during the heat of the day when water laden clouds collect against the mountains and can make the return slippery. Just when you thought that the hike down was going to be a reward from the steep climb to the lookout. Check local weather conditions before starting out.

Hihimanu Ridge, Hanalei, Kauai

A walking stick is a handy tool to consider or you will spend time searching for overhanging tree limbs to steady your descent. If insects are attracted to you take along your favorite repellent. Plenty of water and a hat is a must. Practice responsible hiking, keep the trail clean, leave it in better condition than you found it.

This 2.3 mile hike can be comfortably completed in 3-4 hours. Hike with a friend it is always better to share the wonders of Kauai with someone special.

Tell us about your favorite place to hike on Kauai, we’re listening.