Kauai’s natural beauty products

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If you ever want to know the secret to maintaining youthful beauty and health, just incorporate the ancient traditions of the Hawaiians into your beauty regimen.  From the mountains to the sea, the ancient Hawaiians knew that Kauai’s abundant natural resources provided the best beauty products available for everlasting health.  From natural salt scrubs to flowers that squeeze out shampoo, here are a few favorite natural products:

 

Awapuhi

Awapuhi ginger shampoo flower Kauai
Photo by alohimalama

One of the simplest ways to restore natural luster and shine to your hair is to run the juice of the awapuhi flower through your scalp as a replacement to regular shampoo and conditioner. Awapuhi is in the ginger and turmeric plant family and was introduced to Hawaii by the early polynesian settlers.  Its sweet and slightly spicy scent leaves hair smelling and feeling beautiful and is completely free of chemicals!

 

Kukui Nut Oil

Flowers on the Kukui nut tree

It’s amazing how the Hawaiians found so many uses for the kukui nut, or candlenut, which is considered the official state tree of Hawaii.  From extracting its oil to light their lamps to mashing the kernel for use as a strong laxative, this small nut packs powerful healing properties.  Among its many uses, Kukui Nut oil makes an excellent skin and hair moisturizer and massage oil and can also used to soak in a warm bath.

 

Hawaiian Sea Salt

Hawaiian Sea salt from Hanapepe salt beds on Kauai
Photo by Tasting Kauai

The salt pans of Hanapepe on Kauai’s southwest produces some of the purest salt in the world with magnificent health benefits.  The only challenge – it’s not for sale.  The only way you can get this salt is by knowing one of the families that has been farming this salt for over 100 years.  If you are fortunate enough to receive some Hawaiian sea salt, mix it with a bit of organic coconut oil for an excellent exfoliant to treat dry, damaged skin.  Many natural minerals can be found in the red alaea salt, including potassium and magnesium, and can help regulate blood pressure and keep bones strong.  These healthy minerals are usually removed from common table salts.

 

Olena (Turmeric)

Turmeric Olena flower Kauai Hawaii
Photo by plant.lovin.e

Known by the rest of the world as turmeric, olena was highly revered by the Hawaiians as a common anti-inflammatory, antibacterial and antiseptic agent.  Olena is known to treat eczema, acne and aging spots.  Create a concentrated wash by boiling on the stove in water and allowing it to reduce.  Let cool completely and apply to the area of concern.  The color of Olena can stain clothing and skin so use with caution.

 

Coconut Oil

Every knows that vegetable oil for cooking is out and coconut oil is all the rage.  Not only is coconut oil a healthier fat to cook with, it is also one of the best moisturizers around.  Kauai’s east side is known as the Royal Coconut Coast and coconuts can be found just about anywhere on the island.  Making your own coconut oil is easy with a food processor and some patience.

Aloe Vera

Kauai’s year-round sunny weather means that even the most careful will get sunburned at some time.  If this happens to you, soothe your sunburn with some fresh aloe vera, which is commonly found growing around Kauai.  For the best sunburn relief, place the aloe vera leaves in the refrigerator until cold and then rub over skin and let dry.

 

Where to purchase natural Kauai beauty products and services

Kauai spas are known for blending these Hawaiian practices into their services, creating one-of-a-kind experiences to purify, beautify, detox and cleanse.  Anara Spa at the Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort & Spa offers their signature Coco Mango bath and body line for sale in their shop to take the islands with you wherever you go.  Anara Spa’s Island Aromatherapy massage uses an essential oil blend of island ingredients such as pikake (jasmine) and alani (citris) and the Lilikoi Body Polish is a 50 minutes or 100 minutes body treatment where island grown lilikoi (passion fruit) and Hawaiian sea salt are scrubbed over the entire body to increase circulation and then moisturized with a lilikoi moisturizer. The Spa at Koa Kea Hotel in Poipu focuses on using Hawaiian healing practices and ingredients such as awapuhi root, kukui and coconut for their beauty treatments.

When shopping in Poipu, visit The Shops at Kukuiula or Poipu Shopping Village to purchase your Kauai made beauty products.  Malie Organics at The Shops at Kukuiula uses only indigenous and local flora to produce their products, with scents made in the essence of plumeria, pikake, and hibiscus.  Sand People Hawaii at the Poipu Shopping Village carries a variety of island bath and body products that continue to remind you of the islands.

Kauai is a magical place that brings out the youthful elegance and fresh-faced beauty in everyone.  Local Kauai made products will only enhance what you already have and the many heavenly scents will leave you with nostalgic memories of the islands long after your return home.

 

 

 

Monkeypod Jam

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Aletha Thomas, a former schoolteacher, launched Monkeypod Jam in 2010, when she was placed on furlough. Each furlough Friday, Aletha would pull out her French copper pot and make jams and jellies using seasonal Kauai fruit. With each batch, she was preserving the season’s harvest while also preserving childhood memories of her mother, who she remembers canning for the family’s winter provisions. In November of 2015, Monkeypod Jam proudly opened the doors of their first retail location on Kauai’s South Shore. Visitors and locals may now enjoy bakery style breakfasts and lunches highlighting the unique preserves created in the Monkeypod Jam kitchen. In March of 2016, Culinary Workshops were added to the shop’s offerings. Each workshop is created and lead by either a Monkeypod Jam or guest chef.

Art nights around Kauai

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Starting with Kauai’s biggest little town of Hanapepe, art nights have popped up and begun to flourish all over Kauai.  Art nights are not just about the artwork on display, although that has much to do with it.  It’s about the artists, craft makers, clothing designers, food purveyors, and live entertainment that light up the evening.  Art nights have quickly made its mark on Kauai’s social scene, turning visiting small towns into an eclectic experience that visitors and locals have come to love.

Hanapepe Art Night

Hanapepe Art Night Kauai Hawaii
Photo: TripAdvisor

Every Friday, from 5-9 pm, the town of Hanapepe comes alive with Hanapepe Art Night.  Once upon a time, Hanapepe was a lively and thriving port town with all commodities and goods arriving on Kauai through the nearby docks.  As Kauai developed and grew, the official port of call moved central on the island and Hanapepe’s economic vitality significantly slowed until it became a town of empty buildings.  After Hurricane Iniki in the early 90’s, the town was all but deserted.

That all changed in the early 2000s, when small art galleries began to pop up in the town.  Slowly, the town began to reinvent itself into a destination where visitors could experience old Hawaii town, outfitted with clapboard style buildings and a quaint swinging bridge that connected residents of Hanapepe Valley to the main town.  Then came Disney, using Hanapepe Town as their inspiration for the town featured in the film Lilo and Stitch.  The rest, as they say, is history.

Today, Hanapepe Art Night has become its own attraction and thousands of visitors flock to the small town each year to stroll through the art galleries, shop the local crafts, and taste some delicious food truck delicacies.  Banana Patch studio has a variety of handmade items, including kitchenware and other goods handpainted in their studio that is adjacent to the shop.  It’s common to see artists painting while you through their store. Another popular spot is the Talk Story book store, the owners encourage talking and connecting through conversation while shopping their collection of new and used books.  While shopping, don’t forget to pick up some taro chips to snack on from the Taro Ko factory.  Lastly, pick up a custom made dress at Machine Machine apparel, many items made from recycled mu’u mu’u (Hawaiian gowns) and Hawaiian shirts.

 

Old Town Kapaa Art Walk

Kapaa Art Night Kauai - First saturday of the month
Photo: @alohakauai_808

If you are planning to drive through Kapaa Town on the first Saturday evening of each month, you may want to reconsider driving through and instead stop and have some fun!  From 5-9 pm, Kapaa Town is the place to be with live music and sidewalk vendors on every corner.  Businesses stay open late to showcase their unique offerings, while people are encouraged to meander in and out of the number of bars and restaurants lining the streets.

Kilauea Art Night

Fire dancer at Kilauea art night Kauai
Photo: @kalalea_hawaii

On the north shore of Kauai, the once sugar plantation town of Kilauea is home to some of Kauai’s most unusual and one-of-a-kind shops, especially at the centrally located Kong Long Center.  Kilauea also has a monthly art night, held on the last Saturday of every month from 4-8 pm in the heart of town.  One of the most exciting, can’t miss attractions – the Keiki Fire and Light performance held at 7 pm on the back lawn of Kilauea’s historic stone building.  Pottery makers, fine art, beauty products, apparel, and baked sweets are all for sale from local vendors.  Eat your way through art night with delicious fresh baked pies by The Right Slice, gourmet hot dogs from the Porky’s food truck, and homemade Hanalei Pasta.  Art, music and entertainment make this a can’t miss event on Kauai’s north shore, which is not normally known for exciting nightlife.

As with all popular art walks, parking is limited at all three of these events.  It’s best to go early to find parking and enjoy the sights before the larger crowds converge.  Remember to bring cash for some of the smaller vendors and most of all, bring your appetite and desire to have a good time.  Art night is the new way to pa’ina (party) on Kauai, all while appreciating some of the finest art and culture offered.

Eating House 1849 by Roy Yamaguchi

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The Eating House 1849 pays homage to Hawaii’s vibrant culinary heritage, a nod to restaurateurs like Peter Fernandez who, the story goes, opened one of the first restaurants in Hawaii, called the Eating House, back in the mid-1800s, using what was available from local farmers, ranchers, foragers and fishermen.  It’s here that award-winning Chef Roy Yamaguchi blends these two worlds:  the easy ambiance and simple  flavors of a plantation town with the dynamic modernity of haute cuisine.

• Open Nightly for Dinner (5:00 p.m. – 9:30 p.m.) •

 FB The Eating House 1849
 Instagram @eatinghouse1849
 twitter @eatinghouse1849

 

Hawaii’s Most Popular Flowers & How To Wear Them

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Hawaii's favorite tropical flowers

The tropical islands of Hawaii are known for playing host to some of the world’s most beautiful flowers. From the official state flower of the bright yellow Hibiscus to the fragrant pink Plumeria trees, there are a wide variety of exotic flowers to touch, see and smell while visiting our beautiful island. Below are a list of the most popular flowers, usually seen in beautiful leis and celebratory arrangements.

 

Orchid Lei Kauai

Orchid – Hawaiian Orchids are available in a dazzling spectrum of colors but can mostly be found in the popular purple and white leis. These royal flowers are sturdy enough to withstand being strung together all while maintaining their stunning composure. The best-known species of orchid in Hawaii are the Dendrobium and the Epidendrum.

Plumeria Kauai

Plumeria – One of the most delightfully scented flowers on Kauai, Plumeria can be found in white, pink, red and yellow. Commercially grown in Hawaii for lei production, these flowers are the perfect accessories for a decorative welcome home lei or simply worn behind your ear.

 

Hawaiian hibiscus flower

Hibiscus – The official state flower of Hawaii, Hibiscus can be seen growing just about everywhere— from on the side of the road to tucked away in most backyards. At one point they were considered endangered, however today there are over thirty new species that have been introduced into the island’s fertile environment.

Ginger flowers Kauai

Ginger – Hawaii’s ginger can be found in red, pink, blue, white or yellow. Native to Malaysia, this plant is not only beautiful but also functional. Many people consume ginger root to soothe upset stomachs or even squeeze Awapuhi— the “shampoo ginger” into their hair. Contrary to belief, the actual “flower” part of the ginger is the small white buds that sprout up from the colorful hive shaped stems.

Pikake flower Kauai

Pikake – The Hawaiian name for Jasmine, Pikake translates to “peacock”, one of Princess Kaiulani’s favorite types of bird. The light and bight scent of Pikake is considered one of Hawaii’s signature scents.

Heliconia flowers Kauai

Heliconia – A close relative to the banana, Heliconia can grow up to 20 feet tall and are known for resembling the shape of vibrant red lobster claws. A great place to check out these tropical plants is in one of the National Tropical Botanical Gardens on Kauai such as Allerton and McBryde Gardens in Poipu.

Bird of Paradise Hawaii tropical flowers

Bird of Paradise – A close relative of the banana and the Heliconia, the Bird of Paradise is native to South Africa. A featherlike splay of gorgeous colors, this flower is one of the most appropriately named plants on Hawaii.

Anthurium flowers Kauai

Anthurium – Nicknamed the “Flamingo Lily”, this brightly colored flower features an almost wax-like petal.  Growing best in humid conditions, Anthurium was originally brought to Hawaii in 1889 from England.

Tuberose lei kauai
@leilanibishop

Tuberose – Known for its lovely scent, Tuberose’s signature long stalks and cream-colored blossoms are found in many Hawaiian leis or sold simply as fresh cut flowers.

Blue Jade Vine – This otherworldly vine looks like something straight out of a fairytale. The Blue Jade Vine seems to almost glow with its surreal beauty, showcasing several different shades of electric blue. A beautiful and unique addition to any lei or decoration!

Mokihana – Kauai’s official designated “flower” and “official lei material” is that of the Mokihana, a green berry grown only on the second wettest place on earth, Mount Waialeale. Traditionally woven into Maile leaf, these berries are strung like beads and smell similar to fennel.

 

Ways to Wear Them

Haku Lei Kauai
@pineapplestaircase

Haku lei – This type of lei is a flower crown or headdress. Having become increasingly popular in the last few years (outside of the historical Hawaiian culture), Haku lei are the perfect way to tie in the Aloha Spirit into weddings, birthdays, graduation ceremonies, May Day and much more. Some individuals even go as far to wear traditional neck leis, flower bracelets and Haku leis! There’s no better way to feel a sense of Hawaii’s timeless spirit than when showing off its beautiful bounty.

Lei – A collection of blossoms tied and hung around your neck, traditional Hawaiian leis are a fun way to showcase Mother Nature’s beauty while celebrating loved ones. Not only do visitors and locals partake in this custom, there are several ways to go about it. From the Hili lei (braided Ti leaf) to the flattened Christina Lei, there are many different styles to choose from. Leis aren’t always made out of flowers; in fact a large majority include Ti leaves, Kukui nuts and shells in addition to paper money, bones and feathers.

Flower bracelet – A colorful wrist lei is a fun and youthful alternative to the neck lei. Be sure to measure accordingly and tie off the string at an appropriate length.

Flower behind your ear – It’s a well-known fact that wearing a flower behind your ear is much more than just a fashion statement. In the Hawaiian culture, if you are to wear a flower behind your left ear, you are married and/or unavailable. Wearing a flower on the right side signifies the opposite, that the person in question is single and possibly looking for love. Be sure to wear accordingly!

 

Flowers Native to Hawaii

Watercolors of native hawaiian flowers

If you’re interested in learning about flowers native to the Hawaiian Islands, we recommend checking out the Alan Akana Gallery in Koloa.  The gallery features vibrant floral watercolors that elegantly line the walls of the historic Smith Memorial Parsonage, a fully-restored plantation home built in 1928. https://www.alanakanagallery.com/

Hawaii Hurricane Season

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Most people don’t associate Hawai’i with having severe weather occurrences, albeit hurricanes. In fact, one of the very reasons many visitors flock to the islands is to escape extreme weather conditions of their home for a warm, balmy tropical paradise. While Hawai’i’s weather is mostly mild year round, the islands are not 100% protected from severe weather.

June through November of each year is Hawai‘i’s hurricane season. While hurricanes are a rare occurrence, past storms have caused significant damage throughout the island chain, including Kaua‘i. Hurricane Iniki, a Category 4 hurricane with sustained winds of 130 mph, passed directly over Kauai in 1992. Ten years before this, Hurricane Iwa also caused major damage to Kauai, Oahu and Niihau.

Modern day technology is a beautiful thing. Today, national weather forecasters are able to track the path of hurricanes and tropical storms way in advance, giving people ample time to get prepared.

Sattelite imagery of the Hawaiian Islands
Image Source: Nasa Earth Observatory

Here are a few tips of what to do before, during and after a hurricane:

 

Before

 

  • Know the difference between a hurricane watch and a hurricane warning. According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), a hurricane watch is an announcement that hurricane conditions are possible within the specified area. Watches are issued 48 hours in advance of the anticipated onset of tropical storm force winds. A hurricane warning is an announcement that hurricane conditions are expected within the specified area and will likely hit within 36 hours. Listen to local radio forecasts, go online to official weather pages, or watch the news for updates on the hurricane status.
  • Find out where the nearest evacuation shelter is located. All resorts and hotels have evacuation plans and should be able to provide updated information around-the-clock. Take advantage of other resources, such as social media, to find updates from local news media on any impending disaster.
  • Buy food, water and other emergency supplies. Because Hawai‘i is so far from the continental U.S., food and other supplies could take some time to arrive after a hurricane. Make sure to have enough food and water to last several days, as well as buy flashlights, batteries, first aid kit and other emergency items. If you have a rental vehicle, it may also be a good idea to fill up the gas tank.
  • Call the airlines. If you are scheduled to leave the day a hurricane is anticipated, you may want to call your airlines and confirm that the airport is still open and flights are departing. This will help you avoid getting stuck in traffic by being on the road unnecessarily.

 

During

  • Find immediate shelter and stay there. Stay indoors away from windows and doorways where you may possibly be exposed. Do not attempt to drive around to witness the huge ocean swells or damage occurring due to high winds and rain. Definitely do not attempt to go swimming. Hurricanes are natural disasters that should always be taken seriously.
  • Avoid using the phone. Phone lines can instantly be cluttered by calls going out. While it is important to inform your friends or family members of what is happening, try to avoid making unnecessary phone calls.

 

After

  • Wait for the all clear. Local authorities will announce when it is safe to go outside. Until then, stay calm and wait patiently.
  • Stay away from rivers, streams, and beaches. Possible dangerous debris may be all around. To avoid risk of getting hurt, it is best to wait for these areas to be officially reopened before attempting to go back.

 

Some helpful links in the event of a hurricane watch or warning are:

 

We hope that a hurricane or other natural disaster never strikes while you are on vacation, but in the event that one occurs, it’s always best to be prepared.

 

The Best Resort Hotels in Hawaii

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We all know Poipu is a pretty magical place.  What gets us really excited is when outside magazines, journalists, and websites think so, too.  Travel & Leisure recently announced their list of “The Best Resort Hotels in Hawaii” and not one, but two of our Poipu resorts made the list!

 

Coming in at #11 is The Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort & Spa.

The Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort and Spa in Travel & Leisure "The Best Resort Hotels in Hawaii"

Just a mile from Poipu Beach Park, this Hotel is one of Kauai’s finest resorts.  Stunning views of Shipwreck beach, a saltwater lagoon, numerous restaurants and a maze of pools and water slides makes this family-friendly hotel a favorite among journalists and locals alike.  Let’s not forget the 45,000 square foot spa 24/7 fitness center, on site luau, and a kid’s camp!

 

 

Coming in at #4 is the Koa Kea Hotel and Resort

The Koa Kea Hotel & Resort- named #4 in Travel & Leisure "The Best Resort Hotels in Hawaii"

This upscale 121-room boutique oceanfront property is an intimate and romantic alternative to the major hotels.  The tropical waters of Kauai are a mere stone’s throw from the saltwater pool and pool-side bar.  Loved by visitors and locals alike, Koa Kea is known for award-winning service that is both highly personalized and personable.

 

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Anuenue Cafe

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• Family owned and operated •

Husband and wife team John and Michelle bring the flavors of Kaua’i to you.  Serving Breakfast and lunch starting at 6am.  Open everyday but Wednesday.  Eat with aloha!

Sunset Ho’olaule’a

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Sunset Ho‘olaulea at Poipu Beach Athletic Club, FREE concert, 5-8:30pm.  Join us for the revival of this Koloa Plantation Days tradition with music and food for an opening weekend celebration.  Featuring a selection of Kauai’s best food trucks – Chalupas, Kickshaws, Porkys, Scorpacciata, The Fresh Shave and Yamato’s; full bar by Hapas Restaurant and local entertainment by Still Watah, Revival + Damon Williams and Ooklah the Moc.  Presented in partnership with the Poipu Beach Resort Association.
Saturday, July 23, 2016
Sunset Ho'olaule'a 2016

Tree Tunnel Clean Up Day

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The annual sprucing up of Kauai’s scenic Tree Tunnel is set for Saturday, July 16 2016 from 6am- 1pm.  We encourage businesses, families and visitors alike to join in on keeping the gateway to our sunny Poipu beautiful.  Please bring your own rakes, garden equipment and can-do attitude so we can get the job done right.  Gloves and trash bags will be included!

NOTE: Maluhia Road (The Tree Tunnel) will be closed by 7:00 am, Refreshments will be offered from 5:45 – 6:20am at the Koloa Ball Park and at 6:30am, all volunteers will be transported to the Tree Tunnel for clean up through 11:30am.  Lunch will also be provided at the ball park.

Want to get your hands dirty and do something great for the island?  Please contact Maile Reinhardt at 742.7444 or admin@newpoipu.wpengine.com

Mahalo for your Kokua!

 

*Images generously donated by Kawaiola Photography
Kauai Tree Tunnel clean up day crew Kauai Tree Tunnel Clean up day Weed whacking the tree tunnel