Hawaii - Jeff Campbell [436]
A tip: because of the spiritual relevance and cultural history of kalo, it’s disrespectful to dismiss it as bland. If you happen upon one of many luaus on the island that include kalo-based poi in their smorgasbord, don’t jump on the bandwagon to call it ‘wallpaper paste.’ It’s an insult.
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Hale Luana (826-6931; Opelu Rd; ste $150) Enjoy some budget-friendly digs, which offer a private entrance to this one-bedroom suite. There’s a one-time cleaning fee of $85.
Hanalei Surfboard House (826-9825; www.hanaleisurfboardhouse.com; 5459 Weke Rd; r $175-225; ) A surfer haven, this place has kitchenette, TV and unique decor, from vintage Hawaiiana to a shower floor handcrafted with Kaua′i sand. The more expensive detached unit features air-con and surround-sound stereo.
Ching Home (826-9622, 800-488-3336; 5119 Weke Rd; studio/r/ste per week $600/850/950) Clean, hip and perfect for surfers looking for an ideal and less-than-private locale, across from Hanalei Pavilion. Upstairs is the airy one-bedroom suite.
Hanalei Riverside Cottages (826-1675; www.hanaleidolphin.com/kauaivacationrental.html; 5-5016 Kuhio Hwy; 2br per week $1000; ) Launch a canoe, kayak or stand up paddleboard right from your backyard on the Hanalei River. Airy, scenic and a stone’s toss from the little shops of Ching Young Village. Cottage 3 has its own wi-fi, while the others poach off the signal.
Hale Reed Apartment (415-459-1858; www.hanalei-vacation.com; 4441 Pilikoa Rd; 2br apt per week from $1000-1500; ) Location is key here, and you’re just a short walk to the beach. This ground floor apartment boasts a full kitchen, queen bed and patio perfect for cooking, and it can sleep four people in total. There’s a partly refundable $300 to $500 security deposit.
Tutu’s Cottage in Hanalei (826-6111; www.bestvacationinparadise.com; 5095 Pilikoa Rd.; 2br per week $1375) What this place lacks in ocean views it makes up for in location. Not necessarily a good option for those travelling with children.
Blu Nui Cottage (826-9622, 800-488-3336; 4435 Mahimahi Rd; 2br per week $1500) There’s no view, but in Hanalei you’re always close to the beach.
Eating & Drinking
BUDGET
Hanalei Taro & Juice Company (826-1059; 5-5070B Kuhio Hwy; smoothies $3-4.50, sandwiches $6.50; 10:30am-5pm Mon-Sat) Try anything taro-based (such as spicy taro hummus or taro smoothies) and you’re all good.
Java Kai (826-6717; Hanalei Center; specialty coffee drinks $5, smoothies $6; 6:30am-6pm) Try the ‘shark bite’ – you’ll thank us if you like creamy-sweet things. If not, the rich espresso roasts or coconut macaroons may appeal.
Pat’s Taquería (346-4710; parking lot, Hanalei pier; 12-3pm) A short-but-sweet menu consists of the basics: tacos and quesadillas. But he hustles a mean Mexican meal-to-go for $4 to $7 (cash only).
Aloha Juice Bar (826-6990; Ching Young Village; smoothies $5; 9am-4pm) Smoothies, juices and, of course, fruit.
Hanalei Wake Up Café (826-5551; cnr Kuhio Hwy & Aku Rd; breakfast $5-7; 6-11:30am) The best place for early birds to find a hot breakfast.
Kauai Nut Roasters (284-2741; 4489 Aku Rd; packages $6-7; 11am-7pm Mon-Sat, noon-5pm Sun) Some of the most delicious treats you can find are in these unassuming little packages, bursting with sweetness. Coconut, wasabi, lavender, sesame, butterscotch or praline flavors rank tops.
Papaya’s Hanalei (826-0089; Hanalei Center, 5-5161 Kuhio Hwy; 9am-8pm) Fruit stands are best, but this grocer has the best selection of organic snacks. It also boasts choices with a locavore touch: Kilauea greens ($6), Anahola granola ($8) and Kauai Kunana Dairy liliko‘i goat cheese ($8) are among favorites.
Tropical Taco (827-8226; 5-5088A Kuhio Hwy; mains $7-9; 11am-5pm Mon-Sat) Definitely not the best Mexican option, but conveniently located. Cash only.
Hanalei Gourmet (826-2524; www.hanaleigourmet.com; Hanalei Center; sandwiches $7-10, dinner mains $14-26; 8am-9:30pm, to 10:30pm summer)