Hawaii - Jeff Campbell [454]
HANAPEPE VALLEY LOOKOUT
The scenic lookout (Map) that pops up shortly after the 14-mile marker offers a view deep into Hanapepe Valley. The red-clay walls of the cliffs are topped by a layer of green cane, like frosting on a cake. This sight is but a teaser of the dramatic vistas awaiting at Waimea Canyon.
While old king sugar might still dominate Hanapepe Valley, look across the highway toward the ocean to see Kaua′i’s current major commercial crop, coffee.
Activities
Golf practically for free at Kukuiolono Golf Course (332-9151; Kukuiolono Park; green fees adult/child $9/3, pull carts $6; 6:30am-6:30pm), an unassuming nine-hole, par-36 golf course with spectacular ocean and valley views – and zero attitude. Grab a bucket of balls for $2 and hit the driving range – first-come, first-served.
For an indoor workout, work with owner Theresa Ouano (the epitome of fitness) at Poise Pilates (651-5287; www.poisepilates.org; 4432 Papalina Rd; 55min private session $70, mat class $20), a cheerful, well-equipped studio. Prices drop if you buy in multiples.
Sleeping
Seaview Suite (332-9744; www.seakauai.com; 3913 Uluali′i St; studio/1br $75/95; ) Choose from two comfy ground-floor units with lovely sunset and ocean views. The one-bedroom suite includes full kitchen, separate living and dining areas and bedding for four. The compact studio, with fully equipped kitchenette, is a steal. Discounted rates if you rent both.
Hale Ikena Nui (332-9005, 800-550-0778; www.kauaivacationhome.com; 3957 Uluali′i St; r incl breakfast $75, 1br $95; ) Located at the end of a cul de sac, this spacious in-law apartment (1000 sq ft) includes a living area with sofabed, full kitchen and washer-dryer. Singles can rent the B&B room, which is less private but includes private bathroom and use of the main house. Bonus: an irresistible dog named Bear.
Kauai Garden Cottages (332-0877; www.kauaigardencottages.com; 5350 Pu′ulima Rd; studio $100; ) Perched high in the Kalaheo upcountry, this meticulously designed pair of studio units gleams with rich Indonesian hardwood floors under soaring cathedral ceilings with cheerful stained-glass accents. The rooms adjoin a vast lanai overlooking a stunningly green valley that gives new meaning to ‘valley view.’ Two-for-one deal: rent both rooms for only $150 nightly.
Hale O Nanakai (652-8071; www.nanakai.com; 3726 Nanakai Pl; r incl breakfast $75-150, 1br $150-175; ) Guests take first priority at this lovingly designed B&B with accommodations for every budget. Traditional B&B rooms all feature plush carpeting, Sleep Number beds, flat-screen HDTV and generous continental breakfast. Guests share a huge deck and common area with awesome coastal views. For more privacy, choose the downstairs apartment.
Bamboo Jungle House (332-5515, 888-332-5115; www.kauai-bedandbreakfast.com; 3829 Waha Rd; r incl breakfast $130-170; ) In a lovely plantation-style house, the classic B&B experience awaits: friendly hosts, home-cooked breakfasts and 8am gatherings ‘round the morning table. The three rooms are immaculate, with snow white walls, fluffy canopy beds and sparkling French doors. Outside, enjoy a 38ft lap pool amid jungly foliage and lava-rock waterfall. It’s geared towards couples, and children aren’t allowed.
Eating
Mark’s Place (332-0050; 2-3687 Kaumuali′i Hwy; plates $6-7; 10am-8pm Mon-Fri) If you’re curious about the legendary plate lunch, skip breakfast and come here famished at noon. Classic plate lunches feature generous portions of meaty mains (from teriyaki beef to Korean chicken), plus rice and salad. Healthier gourmet options are available. Located off the highway, east of Kalaheo.
Kalaheo Caf