Hawaii - Jeff Campbell [394]
HIKING
If you don’t explore the island on foot, you’re missing out on Kaua′i’s finest (and free) terrestrial offerings. Trails range from easy walks to precarious treks, so there’s something for all skill levels. For the most variety, head to Waimea Canyon State Park (Click here) and Koke′e State Park (Click here). Don’t miss the Pihea Trail (Click here), which connects to the Alaka′i Swamp Trail, for a look at pristine native forestland. Hardier trekkers can combine the Nu′alolo Trail with the Awa′awapuhi Trail (Click here) for breathtaking views of the Na Pali Coast.
* * *
KAUA′I SURF BEACHES & BREAKS Jake Howard
The Garden Isle is one of Hawaii’s most challenging islands for surfers. On the North Shore, a heavy local vibe is pervasive; though Hanalei Bay (Click here) offers some of the best waves among the islands, it is also closely guarded local turf. With the St Regis Princeville Resort overlooking the break however, residents may be a bit more understanding of out-of-towners in the water at Hanalei than at other North Shore spots – but surfing with respect is a must. Between local resistance and the inaccessibility of the Na Pali Coast, not to mention a sizable tiger shark population, you may want to pass on surfing the North Shore.
As a general rule, surf tourism is relegated to the South Shore around Po′ipu (Click here). Chances are good that you’ll be staying in this popular area anyway, which is perfect, as there are some fun waves to be had here. Breaking best in the summer on south swells, spots like BK’s, Acid Drop’s and Center’s (Map) challenge even the most experienced surfers. First-timers can get their feet wet at nearby Brennecke’s (Click here). Only bodyboarding and bodysurfing are permitted here – no stand-up surfing – and it’s a great place to take the family.
On the Northeast Coast, Unreals breaks at Anahola Bay. It’s a consistent right point that can work well on an easterly wind swell, when kona (leeward) winds are offshore.
Surfing lessons and board hire are available mainly in Hanalei (Click here) and in Po′ipu (Click here). To find the swells, call the surf hotline (335-3720).
* * *
Along the Na Pali Coast, the once-remote Kalalau Trail (Click here) now attracts anyone with two legs – but only for the doable first section to Hanakapi′ai Beach. Eastside hikes head inland and upward, such as the Nounou Mountain Trails (Click here), which afford sweeping mountain-to-ocean views.
About three dozen trails are managed by Na Ala Hele (Map; 274-3442; www.hawaiitrails.org; Department of Land & Natural Resources, Division of Forestry & Wildlife, Room 306, 3060 Eiwa St, Lihu′e, Hawaii 96766).
Guided Hikes
The Sierra Club (651-0682; www.hi.sierraclub.org/kauai/kauai.html) leads guided hikes (suggested donation $3) ranging from beach-cleanup walks to rigorous overnighters. Koke′e Museum (Click here) leads ‘Wonder Walks’ (by donation) in summer. For the ultimate learning experience, hike with geologist Chuck Blay’s company, Kaua′i Nature Tours (742-8305; 888-233-8365; www.kauainaturetours.com; tours adult $100-130, child 7-12 $75-85).
ZIPLINING
For a bird’s-eye view of Kaua′i’s forests and lots of effortless thrills, go ziplining. Lihu′e is zip central, with three reputable outfits (Click here), including one with the island’s only canopy-based ziplines (once you’re in the trees, you don’t touch ground till the end). On the North Shore, there’s one zip park, Princeville Ranch Adventures (Click here), near Princeville. Note that some tours focus on zipping while others do fewer zips but add swimming and other fun.
Return