The Makauwahi Cave

Makauwahi Cave in Poipu - Things to do in Poipu Kauai

Among Poipu’s glorious beaches, award-winning golf, and numerous rainforest adventures is a hidden wonder that dates back to pre-contact Kauai. Makauwahi Cave is a limestone cave that took over 400,000 years to form, through the hardening of an ancient sand dune that over time turned to stone. Approximately 7,000 years ago, as groundwater slowly eroded the limestone and dripping water flowed down the walls molding flow-stone formations, the ceiling in the cave’s central room collapsed, creating a freshwater lake in the cave.

How to get there

Located just beyond the Poipu Bay Golf Course and CJM Horse Stable is a short sandy trail that leads to the cave. From 80 feet above, the cave will arouse your curiosity and make you wonder how this sinkhole in the middle of nowhere came to be. Paleocologist David Burney and his wife Lida Pigott Burney were equally curious on the history of the cave and have spent two decades uncovering the caves secrets. Their findings have been nothing less than extraordinary!

The Makauwahi Cave in Poipu

A narrow entrance will take you into the Makauwahi Cave, which is a treasure trove for historical artifacts dating back to prehistoric Kauai. The fossils of plants and animals can be found within the limestone crevices. Sediments spanning 10,000 years tell stories of floods, droughts, tsunami, hurricanes, and the animal and plant life that existed. Indigenous birds, insects and plants – many of which are now extinct, once inhabited the cave – coexisting with one another. Blind cave spiders and other invertebrates still reside within the maze of underground lava tubes that start at the entrance of the south cave. It is not recommended that people go beyond the entrance for risk of causing harm to the fragile ecosystem and to respect Hawaiian cultural practices.

Today, Makauwahi Cave is a 17-acre park due to the efforts of the Burneys, reserve caretaker Joe Kanahele, landowner Grove Farm Company, and the hundreds of volunteers who have spent thousands of hours excavating and restoring the cave. Once overgrown with non-native plants and other invasive species, the cave is now thriving with nearly 5,000 native and Polynesian plants that were reintroduced using fossil record as a guide of what to plant.

Free Tours

If you are fortunate enough to be there on a Wednesday, Friday, Saturday or Sunday, free guided tours are available from 10 am to 2 pm.  Tours are available on other days by appointment. Visitors are also welcome to enter the cave on other days if the gate is open. Rules for visiting the cave are simple, dogs should be left outside on a leash, give the horses the right away when standing above the cave, and do not damage the native plants. The rest is for you to explore and discover.

 

 

 

 

 

Kauai’s Magnificent Na Pali Coast

3 Ways to see Na Pali Coast Kauai Hawaii - Poipu Beach Association

 

Put the spectacular Na Pali Coast on your “must do” list when planning your Kauai vacation. No visit to Kauai is complete without seeing this magical coastline, an 11-mile stretch of 3,000 foot emerald green sea cliffs, hidden lava rock caves, uninhabited beaches and not a car or building in sight. Only accessible by helicopter, boat or hiking, the Na Pali Coast is where the Hawaiian gods must have envisioned heaven.

There are only three ways to access these stunning sea cliffs – by air, land or sea – each offering a different perspective and experience than the other. If possible, we suggest experiencing the Na Pali Coast at least one way, but if you can fit it into your schedule, you won’t be disappointed to return more than once.

A Bird’s Eye View

View of Na Pali from a helicopter tour Kauai Hawaii
Photo: Marcus Bloss

Helicopter tours of Na Pali Coast will have you swooping in-and-out of its magnificent valleys and up-close to thousands of feet of waterfalls faster than you can say the name of Hawaii’s state fish, the humuhumunukunukuapua’a. From the sky, you will get a feeling of just how vast this coastline is and the intricacies that make up each mile along the way. You also gain quite an appreciation for those who dare to traverse the 22-miles round trip by foot.

There is no tour company on Kauai as exceptional as Blue Hawaiian Helicopters. Your feet will be anything but aching as you settle comfortably into a luxury business class seat aboard one of their American Eurocopter Eco-Star chopper. In fact, the only thing working will be your eyes and they are in for a feast. Blue Hawaiian’s helicopters feature plush state of the art seating, two-way pilot communication and expansive glass windows to view Na Pali. Your pilot narrates the entire tour, with music to fit the backdrop in between. Not only do you get to see Na Pali, but you get to fly around the entire island and view numerous waterfalls, rocky canyons and the pristine waters of the north shore! Book a tour with them today by visiting https://bluehawaiian.com/kauai/tours.

Like the Ancient Hawaiians

Hike to Kalalau Valley and Hanakapiai falls Kauai Hawaii
Photo: @exploringunscripted

Earlier, we mentioned those brave and adventurous souls who decide to hike the entire 11-miles in and then back out again, much like the ancient Hawaiians who once lived in the walls of these isolated valleys. ​Before you decide to go this route, please keep in mind that this is not a day hike; overnight camping permits are required and that it is a difficult trail for even the most experienced hiker.​ Now that that’s out of the way, let’s talk about the trail.

The Kalalau trail head begins at Haena State Park, which is literally the end of the road on Kauai’s north shore. Over the course of the trail, hikers traverse five valleys, crossing streams and skimming along narrow trail areas with sheer cliffs before reaching the sandy white shore of Kalalau. The first four miles of the trail are for day hikers, most choose to stop at Hanakapiai Beach or hike an additional two miles inland to Hanakapiai Falls, a 300-hundred foot waterfall with a glittering pool to swim in. Past Hanakapiai Beach is Hanakoa Valley and waterfall. This is as far as you can go without a permit. Once you continue past Hanakoa, the trail gets much harder and even more dangerous, only experienced hikers should attempt the rest of the trail. The payoff at the end…an endless white sand beach and lush valley with a freshwater stream running through it leading to secluded waterfalls. Camping areas are clearly defined along the terraced areas bordering the stream. Of course, camping on the beach on a carpet of soft sand surrounded by thousands of sparkling stars in the sky is an option, too.  Congratulations, you have reached the garden of eden.

One last very important about hiking and camping in Kalalau: Please remember to haul your trash back out with you. The Hawaiians believed in leaving a place a little better than when they first arrived and that custom is still valued today.

 Na Pali Coast Kauai Hanakoa Valley

A Three-hour Tour (to the tune of Gilligan’s Island)

A tour of Na Pali Coast by boat may be more than three hours, more like 5 1⁄2 hours for a snorkel tour and 4 hours for a sunset dinner cruise by catamaran, but we promise you will get safely back to shore on Kauai when it’s over. Choose your pace with a relaxing catamaran snorkel day tour or sunset tour or choose an exhilarating, fast paced, “hang on until your knuckles are white” tour aboard a zodiac where you will zip in and out of sea caves. Each type of tour offers a different experience, but one thing remains the same: the view of the staggering cliffs, cathedral shaped spores that rise out of the ocean, and deep blue of the water beneath you. If seeing the Na Pali Coast by boat is for your, there are several companies on island are well known for their first class tour experience:

Holoholo Charters

Holoholo Charters high powered fleet of vessels gets you to the Na Pali Coast faster than any other boats out there. They also offer exclusive tours to both the forbidden Niihau Island and Lehua Rock. Taking a tour with Holoholo will sometimes make you feel like you have the boat to yourself, they never book more than 49 people on a tour, which means you will have more room to sightsee, take photos and enjoy the view. Prices range from $114 and up.
Book your tour on https://www.holoholokauaiboattours.com

Blue Dolphin Charters

View the Na Pali Coast from 65’ deluxe catamarans, private charter for big game fishing, or on one of their zodiac rafts. Their catamarans are designed to ensure a smooth ride and maximize your fun. Choose between their snorkel tour that includes lunch or sunset dinner cruise on their catamarans. Blue Dolphin is the only tour company that guarantees dolphin sightings on your morning tour or the next tour is free. Prices range from $119 and up.
Book your tour on https://bluedolphinkauai.com

Capt Andy’s Sailing Adventures

Capt Andy’s 65” Star Class yachts glide effortlessly along the coast, making your forget you are out on the open ocean. Capt Andy snorkel and lunch tours are approximately 5.5 hours long, while his sunset dinner sail is approximately 4 hours. Once you reach Kalalau Valley, the Captain lets down the sails and out come the cocktails. Capt Andy’s experienced crew are made up of watermen and women who grew up surfing, diving and exploring Kauai’s waters, and are eager to show you the Na Pali Coast from a local perspective. Prices range from $119 and up.
Book your tour on www.napali.com

Kauai Sea Tours

Sail the coast aboard the “Lucky Lady” 60 foot catamaran and you will feel like the luckiest person on earth. Or, take a Kauai Sea Tour raft adventures. This is the only company that actually includes the opportunity to land on Nualolo Kai for a guided hike of this ancient Hawaiian village. After landing on shore, head out to explore the sea caves or get up close with Hawaiian spinner dolphins as they frolic and play in the wake. Their ocean raft adventure tours range from $110 and up; catamaran tours range from $126 and up.
Book your tour on https://kauaiseatours.com

Outfitters Kauai

There’s one last way to see the Na Pali Coast, by guided ocean kayak tours that combine the panoramic, exotic scenery from the ocean and the physical skill and stamina needed for rigorous activities like hiking.  An ocean kayak tour with Outfitters Kauai is an all day adventure, usually starting at sunrise on the North Shore and finishing 17-miles later at Polihale State Park.  Along the way, you will stop for lunch on a secluded beach and paddle alongside dolphins and sea turtles as you traverse in and out of sea caves.  Kayak sea tours are only for those 15 and older and it is recommended that you don’t try it unless in very good physical condition.  Tours start at $238.
Book your tour on https://outfitterskauai.com

Whether by air, land or sea, the Na Pali Coast is a visually stunning and dramatic coastline that you must add to your bucket list.

Hiking Kauai

Explore Kauai’s spectacular vistas, amazing secret waterfalls and canyon trails.  Local hiking guides safely take you to their favorite island spots with customized day hikes, sharing local spots and local knowledge while inspiring an appreciation of the garden island. Private tours specialized in outdoor adventure and hiking for people of all age groups and hiking ability levels.  Enjoy scenic waterfalls, breathtaking canyon trails, lush valley views, and coastal ecosystems guided by locals.

Kauai Escape Room

Kauai Escape Room offers 2 escape games: The Missing Scientist and Curse of the Tiki Lounge. Escape rooms are live action games. Enter a room with your group, find clues and solve puzzles to unravel the mysteries of the room and escape within a set time limit. It’s a fun and exciting rush of adrenaline. Are you up for the challenge?

Easter Brunch on Kauai

Easter is fast approaching and what better way to celebrate than in Poipu! The south shore has a plethora of holiday activities for you to choose from including several Easter Egg Hunts, Brunches and more.  Below is our list of our favorite Easter Brunches on Kauai:

 

Ilima Terrace Easter Brunch Kauai

Ilima Terrace at the Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort & Spa

The Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort and Spa is very well-known for their Easter brunch.  While most activities are limited to hotel guests only, this brunch is a Kauai favorite.  Reservations fill up fast so call today or book online to get your spot!

Sample menu: Sliced seasonal and tropical fruits and berries, carving station of Ali’i Kula Lavender Rubbed prime rib, Garlic Herb stuffed whole leg of lamb, taco station, seared ahi benedict, asian pesto crusted swordfish, and lemon meringue tartlet, pineapple coco verrine, and belgian waffles.

Download Full Easter Menu

Time: 12-4pm
Price: $70 adults and $35 keiki
Contact: 808-742-1234 , www.grandhyattkauai.com
Book Online: https://www.opentable.com/ilima-terrace-grand-hyatt-kauai

 

 

Tortilla Republic Kauai Easter Brunch

Tortilla Republic at The Shops at Kukui’ula

Tortilla Republic’s Easter Brunch will include special Easter dishes plus their regular menu.

Time: 9am-3pm
Contact: 808-742-8884, www.tortillarepublic.com

 

 

Keoki's Paradise Kauai

Keoki’s Paradise

Enjoy a savory island style breakfast buffet at Keoki’ s Paradise in Poipu. Tasty traditional breakfast treats will please everyone in the family.  Live hula show with Joe Kaneholani

Time: 7:30 am – 11am
Price: $28 adults and $15 keiki
Contact: 808-742-7534, www.keokisparadise.com
Book Online: https://www.opentable.com/keokis-paradise

 

The Best Ocean-View Accommodations in Poipu

When dreaming of the perfect tropical destination vacation, an oceanfront property overlooking Poipu’s white sand beaches and spectacular coastline on the Hawaiian Island of Kauai exceeds all expectations.  With no shortage of sunshine and plenty of restaurants, shopping, golf and adventurous activities nearby, Kauai’s south shore is a destination that does not disappoint.  So if waking up to the sound of surf,  smell of salty sea air, and an unforgettable view is what you are looking for in a dream destination (who isn’t?), we’ve found the best ocean-view accommodations in Poipu for you.

 

Whaler’s Cove Resort

Ocean views from Whaler's cove vacation rentals in Poipu

Families and couples love Whaler’s Cove Resort for their tropical retreat.  Their spacious and well appointed one and two-bedroom suites with 1,400 of living space are perfect so you can be close, but not too close.  Each suite features king sized beds, washer and dryer appliances, full size kitchens and a private lanai.  Take a dip in the oceanfront pool and watch Humpback Whales spouting off shore during whale season (between December to April).  Suites start at $440 per night.  The perfect sunsets are complimentary.

Website: https://www.whalerscoveresort.com/accommodations/oceanfront.php

 

Castle Kiahuna Plantation and the Beach Bungalows

Kauai ocean view condos in Poipu - Kiahuna Plantation Resort by Castle Resorts & Hotels

Located fronting one of America’s best beaches, Poipu Beach, and surrounded by a lush tropical plants and floral foliage, the plantation style condos at Castle Kiahuna Plantation and the Beach Bungalows are nothing short of exemplary.  For the royal treatment, a stay in the two bedroom beach front Alii Suite is a must.  Meaning royalty in Hawaiian, the Alii Suite is 1,280 square feet of pure bliss and sleeps up to six people.  Great for friends traveling together and families.  The split level condo features a full kitchen and living room upstairs and the bedrooms on the bottom floor.  Prepare to have your breath taken away with the master bedroom, with sliding doors that open completely to take in the most heavenly sea view.  You may be tempted to sleep with the doors open all night.  The Alii Suite starts at $575 per night.

Website: https://www.castleresorts.com/kauai/kiahuna-plantation-and-the-beach-bungalows/amenities/

 

Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort & Spa’s Presidential Suite

Ocean views from the Presidential Suite at The Grand Hyatt Kauai

Pamper yourself in the lap of ultimate luxury on Kauai’s south shore.  The premiere, top floor Presidential Suites at the Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort & Spa boast up to 2,800 square feet of pure upscale perfection with unparalleled views from each well-appointed room, fully equipped kitchen, dining area, and audio/visual viewing rooms.  Breathe in the fresh ocean air from your private lanai furnished with cushioned furniture, 55” flat screen TVs and stereo and sound system.  Retreat into elegance in bathrooms with jacuzzi tubs for four, marble double-sink vanities, separate shower and bath, and porcelain fixtures.  Rates for the Grand Hyatt’s Presidential Suites range from $2,500 to $5,000 a night.

Virtual Tours: https://my.matterport.com/show/?m=HyvaA9yNeS9
https://my.matterport.com/show/?m=Q3iBJ8bZCcS

Website:  https://kauai.grand.hyatt.com/en/hotel/rooms.html

 

Alekona Kauai Spouting Horn Cottage

Poipu Ocean view vacation rental near spouting horn Kauai- Alekona Kauai Vacation Rentals

Wake up to the sound of surf on crashing rocks right outside your bedroom window at the Spouting Horn Cottage.  This three bedroom, four bathroom cottage is completely private and located near the famous Spouting Horn beach park.  The ocean is visible from nearly every room in the home, the ocean dazzles in hues that range from sparkling turquoise to deep blue.  Nightly rates are based on season and range from $699-$999/night.

https://www.alekonakauai.com/vrp/unit/spouting-horn-cottage

 

Suite Paradise Poipu Sands 532

Ocean View Condo overlooking Shipwreck beach - Suite Paradise Rentals Kauai

Simple elegance awaits in Poipu Sands 532, with updated bedrooms, bathrooms and kitchen.  Intended to be a home away from home for travelers, this deluxe condo in the exclusive Poipu Sands community features extra plush king and california king sized beds, a gourmet chef’s kitchen, spa quality luxury bathrooms and extra high speed wifi.  With this ocean-view, watching a screen becomes an afterthought to the view of surfers dancing in and out of waves. The condo is ideally located on the third floor of the building and the private community members only pool and hot tub are just a short walk away. Whether on an extended vacation or a brief visit, Poipu Sands 532 provides convenience and affordability that makes it a great vacation rental option in Poipu. Prices from $415/night.

Website: https://www.suite-paradise.com/vrp/unit/poipu-sands-532ps532

 

Lawai Beach Resort 1401

Ocean view accommodations at Lawai Beach Resort in Poipu Kauai

A stay at the Lawai Beach Resort in Suite 1401 has all the ingredients for a successful family vacation. This suite boasts two bedrooms and two bathrooms, a full sized kitchen and updated furnishings over 1200 square feet with a prestigious view of the water.  Kids of all ages will love the choice of swimming in the property’s three swimming pools, mini golf course on property and spectacular snorkeling right across the street. Parents love having every amenity needed – from a variety of beach gear, movies and video games for entertainment, a washer and dryer for sandy swimwear, a large master bedroom with complete ocean-view and a large lanai for sipping cocktails while soaking up each day’s glorious sunset.  Across the street from the resort is the Beach House Restaurant and some of the best snorkeling in Poipu.

Website: https://www.suite-paradise.com/vrp/unit/lawai-beach-1401lb1401

 

Hideaway Cove

Hideaway Cove Vacation Rentals - Ocean view rental

Nestled within the quiet Poipu neighborhoods is Hideaway Cove, offering deluxe accommodations and quiet seclusion. The three bedroom, two bath ocean-view condo immediately impresses visually with 2,300 square feet of luxurious living. The entire living area is furnished with top-of-the line products for your comfort and convenience, from pillow top mattresses with Egyptian linens, spa-like rainfall showers and high-definition TVs throughout every bedroom.  And then there is the view. You won’t be able to resist basking in the view of the glittering Pacific Ocean from one of two large lanai or go for a soak in the oversized jacuzzi during sunset.

Website: https://hideawaycove.com/booking/ocean-view-three-bedroom-two-bath/

 

The Parrish Collection – Kauai Kai

The Parrish Collection - Poipu ocean view vacation home Kauai Kai

Fall asleep listening to the waves from this 5-bedroom home in Poipu.  At 3,300 sq.ft., this ocean view vacation rental comes complete with central air conditioning, oceanfront swimming pool, gourmet kitchen with granite counter tops, spacious covered lanai and outdoor BBQ gas grill- perfect for the indoor-outdoor Kauai lifestyle.  Rates from $1,550/night.

Website: https://www.parrishkauai.com/kauai-rentals/kauai-kai/

 

There’s a reason why Poipu has been a favorite destination for Kauai visitors, especially our return visitors, for years – the variety of accommodations and scenic views from the many ocean-view accommodations available are simply incomparable.  With everything centrally located in this area, you may find yourself wanting to put your feet up and to never leave.  And that is perfectly okay.

Check out our full selection of Poipu Vacation Rentals

Little Fish Coffee

Little Fish Coffee Kauai is a purveyor of specialty coffee.  We offer high quality, locally 
sourced and roasted coffees,  amazing espresso drinks, healthy smoothies, acai
 bowls loaded with fresh Kauai fruit, bagels, sandwiches, paninis and salads.  We have 
three Kauai locations for all your coffee needs: Hanapepe, Poipu, and Koke’e.

Poipu Hours: 6:30am – 5pm Monday thru Sunday

 

How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Kokee State Park

Kokee State Park on the west side is one of Kauai’s most scenic drives, with thousands of people flocking to the mountain region to view its breathtaking grandeur.  From the rental car, cascading waterfalls, flowing mountain streams, towering pine trees and colorful flowers can be viewed at every exhilarating turn.

However the best Kokee moments should be experienced out of the rental car, with Kauai’s unmistakable red dirt beneath your feet and the fresh cool air blowing through your hair.  We created a list of unique Kokee experiences that will take your visit to this State park from interesting to incredible.

 

Take a selfie at the Waimea Canyon and Kalalau Lookout

A photo posted by Bob Gjestvang (@bobgjestvang) on

You won’t want to miss the opportunity to show off to your friends (or Snapchat followers) a quick video of yourself basking in the sunlight at the 10 mile long and 3,000 feet deep Waimea Canyon, nicknamed The Grand Canyon of the Pacific.  Next stop at the top of Kokee State Park is Kalalau lookout, where clouds swirl around your head as you peer down into Kauai’s most renowned valley, only accessible by boat or an arduous 11-mile hike on the Kalalau Trail.  Selfie sticks recommended, but not necessary.  Ready, set, snap!

 

Make a wreath in Kokee Park

Kokee is teeming with amazing plant life.  Hui o Laka holds an annual wreath workshop for a small fee at the Kokee Natural History Museum.  What better way to incorporate all the lovely flora and fauna in to a souvenir than to weave a wreath that will guaranteed smell as good as it looks.  From redwood pines, sugi cedar, native ginger, and other indigenous plants, such as the hard to find maile vine and mokihana berries (the official Kauai flower), there’s enough inspiration throughout the park to get your creative juices flowing.

 

Attend a festival for a queen

Queen Emma Festival in Kokee Kauai Hawaii

Hawaii’s beloved Queen Emma once journeyed from her vacation home in Lawai to visit the Kokee uplands and Kilohana vista, bringing nearly 100 people with her as she offered oli (chants) to the gods to express her appreciation of the area’s magnificent beauty.  The Eo e Emalani i Alakai festival is held every fall in the Kanaloahuluhulu Meadow at Kokee Park to commemorate Queen Emma’s voyage to the Alakai Swamp.  Queen Emma was a beautiful leader of the people and each year a respected woman in the Kauai community is selected to represent the queen, as hula halau (school) perform hula and chant in offering to the queen.  For information on this annual event, visit www.kokee.org.

 

Test your limits at 3,000 feet above sea level


Some hikes in Kokee are best left to the adventure seeking folk who are sure footed and in good physical condition.  The 3.8 mile Nualolo Trail and 3.1 mile Awaawapuhi Trail are two of those hikes.  Both trails lead from the forest to a hot and dry desert-like climate out on the Napali Coast, where piercing green spores and cathedrals point towards heaven while red dirt crumbles on the narrow path beneath your feet.  These hikes are not recommended for the faint at heart or those with fear of heights.  But the view – 3,000 feet of absolutely spectacular ocean cliffs, where you are perched right on top.

 

Weave baskets with the vines of one of Kauai’s most invasive plants


While most people on Kauai flock to the beaches for sun and surf over Memorial Day weekend, volunteers gather in Kokee State Park to gather the vines of one of Kauai’s most invasive plant species at the annual Banana Poka Roundup.  Banana Poka is one of the most harmful species threatening Kauai’s forests and plants, however their vines make excellent materials for basket weaving.  This annual event has turned into a full blown festival with live music, games for keiki, lei making and food booths.

 

Hike through a swamp near one of the wettest spots on earth

A photo posted by Sabrina Brett (@sabrinabrett) on


The weather forecast usually calls for rain when hiking the Alakai Wilderness Preserve, known as the Alakai Swamp.  After all, it is about as close as you can get to Mount Waialealae, which is one of the wettest spots on earth (the other being in India) and sees over 400 inches of rain each year.  Fortunately, the State of Hawaii’s Department of Land and Natural Resources has built an elevated boardwalk system that allows you to travel through the 3.5 miles of swampy area with some ease.  The trail stops at Kilohana Overlook, with views of Kauai’s north shore from Wainiha Valley to Hanalei Bay.

 

Go on a nature-filled group date

When playing outdoors on Kauai, we always recommend having a buddy or a few buddies come along.  If you are traveling alone, a group hike with the Sierra Club Kauai might be just the right opportunity to make new friends and explore new trails.  There is a recommended donation of $5 per person or $1 for ages 18 and under.  For the list of upcoming hikes, visit https://sierraclubkauai.org/kauai-group-hikes-clean-ups-service-projects/.

 

Spend time off the grid in a State cabin

Kokee State Cabin that you can rent nightly

Leave technology behind, get engrossed in a good book by the fireplace or remember how to have a conversation that does not involve texting with a stay in one of the five State cabins available for rent.  The cabins are newly updated and rent for under $150 per night.  While staying there, dine at The Lodge at Kokee, the only restaurant in Kokee that happens to serve the best Portuguese bean soup and cornbread around.  Information on these cabins can be found at https://www.westkauailodging.com/the-cabins-at-kokee-park/kokee-park-waimea-canyon.htm.

There is so much more to Kokee than what meets the eye and the best part is discovering what feeds your soul.  Careful planning and preparation, especially when hiking, will ensure that your time in Kokee State Park will be well spent and most of all, memorable.

10 Things to do and not do on Kauai

Kauai is known for its simple and laid back lifestyle with less emphasis on being on time and more emphasis on maintaining a go with the flow vibe.  It is not uncommon for local residents to be on “Hawaiian Time,” meaning being 20-30 minutes late is sometimes perfectly acceptable.  From the casual attire (flip-flops or slippers are the staple footwear) to the brightly hued aloha shirts that are worn every day as formal wear (in lieu of suits), there is a certain way of life that quietly guides the Kauai lifestyle.  Since many customs and basic etiquette are not covered in the guidebooks, we give you an insider’s guide of 10 things to do and not to do on Kauai.

 

1. DO….

Heed ocean safety signs and warnings.  Go to life-guarded beaches and see your lifeguards for advice.  The ocean currents can be unpredictable and sometimes produce an undertow that you can’t see.  A great source for current ocean conditions is kauaiexplorer.com.

2. DON’T

The shoe rule in Hawaii- don't wear your shoes in the house!

Wear your shoes in someone’s home.  Removing your shoes is a customary sign of respect and also prevents Kauai’s infamous red dirt from being tracked into a home.

 

3. DO…

One land bridge rules on Kauai - let 5-6 cars pass then wait your turn

Wait your turn.  There are many bridges on the north shore of Kauai that consist of one-lane, which means that one side of traffic must stop to allow the other side to cross.  Local etiquette is five to seven cars should cross at a time.  Don’t forget to wave thank you to the people who stopped to let you cross.  Even better – throw them a shaka!

4. DON’T…

Remove a flower lei in the presence of the person who gave it to you.  This is considered offensive or rude to the giver.

5. DO…

Pull over to let locals pass while you are slowly enjoying the scenic view while driving to Kokee State Park.

6. DON’T…

Stacking rocks at hanakapiai beach on Kauai is not ok

Stack rocks at Hanakapiai Beach or any beach or heiau (ancient Hawaiian rock platform).  Also, do not walk on the heiau.  While some visitors mistakenly believe stacking rocks is a way to make an offering to the gods or will make a cool instagram photo, it is actually a desecration of sacred sites.

7. DO…

Hawaiian monk seal resting on Poipu Beach

Give the adorable sea turtles and monk seals some breathing room when they are resting on the beach.  This is for your safety and theirs.  They are protected by the Endangered Species Act and you could be imposed with a fine for approaching within 100 feet of them.  Mama monk seals nursing their calf on the shore may also become aggressive if you get too close to them.  It’s okay to take photos of these cute creatures from a proper distance.  If you see anyone breaking these rules, please notify the local lifeguards.

8. DON’T…

Go off the beaten path when hiking.  We can’t stress this one enough.  Staying on the marked trail and following all trail signage is a must.  By deviating from a trail, you are putting yourself at risk to get lost, hurt or something worse.  There are many marked trails that provide challenge and adventure with the stunning unobstructed views of Kauai.

 

9. DO…

Helping to keep Kauai beaches clean - we all need to do out part!

Leave everywhere you go a little bit better than when you arrived.  Help pick up trash where you see it and clean up after yourself.  Kauai is called “The Garden Island” for a good reason and it’s our job to keep it that way.  Want to help with a beach clean up?  Check out https://kauai.surfrider.org/ for a list of beach clean up days.

10. DON’T…

Forget to roll up your car windows at night or put the top up on your convertible.  It rains often on Kauai – pretty much every day.  Although perfectly sunny during the day, Kauai’s downpours are unpredictable and it rains at least a little every night.  How else would the island stay so green and lush?

11. DO…

It goes without saying, but always remember to lock your cars when venturing around Kauai.  Don’t leave anything of value in plain sight and if you have things you can’t carry, lock them up in the trunk.  The same goes for your vacation rental.

 

Follow these rules and we can guarantee that your experience on Kauai will be unforgettable.  When in doubt, don’t be afraid to ask for some friendly advice from the locals.  They are happy to share their culture and their island!

 

Breakfast in Poipu: Where and what to eat

Ah breakfast.  It’s the most important meal of the day.  You’re probably up before the roosters because you’re still in your time zone and looking for the perfect way to start your day.  From fresh fruit acai bowls to the ultimate breakfast crepe, this list of places to have breakfast in Poipu will help you get started:

1. Little Fish Coffee Shop Poipu

Kauai Acai bowl in Poipu from Little fish coffee shop Poipu

The newest hotspot for breakfast in Poipu is Little Fish Coffee.  With ample outdoor seating, this walk-up shop serves delicious acai bowls, breakfast bagels, paninis, smoothies and of course, coffee.  Vegetarian options are also available.

Breakfast Hours: 6:30 am – 5:00pm
Order online for pickup: https://ordering.chownow.com/order/7233/locations
Menu: https://littlefishcoffee.com/menu/

 

2. TORTILLA REPUBLIC

Breakfast dish at Tortilla Republic Poipu