Blog
Hole-in-the-Wall Grinds Kauai II
E Komo Mai! Welcome to our second installment of Hole-in-the-Wall-Grinds, those little tucked away spots that are our local favorites when “jone-zin’” for great food at an affordable price. If you missed the last post be sure to check out part one of Hole-in-the-Wall Grinds on Kauai's...
A REALLY Good Restaurant Tip
Rainbows. Waterfalls. Hanalei Bay. No Kauai vacation is complete without seeing the view from the St. Regis in Princeville. Valet your car and visit the lobby bar—watch a sunset over Bali Hai—or have breakfast, lunch or dinner at the Makana Terrace. Or better yet, splurge at Chef Jean-Georges...
Best Hawaiian Music on Kauai
The heart and soul of Hawaiian culture is in its music, and right now Monday nights are overflowing with hula and harmony at the Kauai Beach Resort in Lihue.I hope you go to a luau while you’re vacationing on Kauai—there are many, and all are entertaining—but E Kanikapila Kakou (“Let’s play music...
Kauai Hole-in-the-Wall Grinds
You know them, those little tucked away spots that are your special secrets, those places you think no one else knows about; and you harbor that sense of accomplishment that it was you that found it and you’ll only share it with a cherished few. Kauai is one of those places. Many will agree that...
Nanea – One of Best Places to Eat in Princeville
The Nanea Restaurant & Bar—tucked away below the lobby of the Westin Princeville Ocean Resort Villas—is one of the best “undiscovered” restaurants on the north shore. They have a super wine list, but really, if you're on vacation on Kauai, how can you resist a lilikoi mojito or an Aninitini –...
The Churches of Kauai
The Hawaiian Islands' diverse cultural heritage and history is inevitably entwined with its diverse religious philosophies. Kauai has been considered by many ‘spiritual’ seekers as place of great power and connection to the Infinite and is home to religious and spiritual communities that span...
Remembering Andy Irons
Lots of happenings on Kauai next month, but one that’s near and dear to my heart is a tribute: “Remembering Andy,” Jan. 7-9 at the Amy Laurens Gallery in Hanalei. Andy Irons, a three-time world surfing champion, was a Hanalei boy through and through—a great friend and an amazing guy who died much...
Babymoons: New Excuse for Kauai Vacation
Babymoon? Huh? What's a babymoon? After hearing the word pop up several times I did a little checking. Evidently “babymoons” are the hottest new travel trend—“pre-baby” vacations—to give prospective parents time to relax and reconnect before birth—or “post-baby” getaways to give the new family...
Kauai’s Hindu Monastery & Temple
Kauai has many special ‘gems’ that are worth your visit here on the Garden Island. ‘Natural’ ‘wonders abound with sunny white sand beaches, magnificent surf and snorkel spots, and mountain trails that lead to the idyllic waterfall. But there are some marvels that are quietly tucked away, just...
Baby, It’s “Kinda” Cold Outside!
Well, actually, it’s about 75 degrees, but it might dip all the way down to 67 tonight! If you’re considering booking a winter vacation on Kauai, your best bet for consistently sunny weather is on the south shore. Like Hale Kai, a quaint two bedroom beachfront cottage with spectacular views of the...
Lei: The Beauty & Tradition of Aloha
When one thinks of Hawaii, certain images come to mind; the swaying palms, hula skirts, warm sun, azure blue water and sandy beaches and blue tropical drinks with little umbrellas. But arguably the signature image that comes to many is the garland of flowers bestowed to the arriving visitor that...
Where to Eat in Hanalei
Below are some of the choices for dining on Kauai's North Shore in Hanalei Town. Zelo's (Kalypso Island Bar & Grill) One of our very favorite, hands down is Zelo's Kalypso Island Bar & Grill. Lunch, dinner, casual or a nice dinner out it's by far the best food and service on the north...
Heavenly Anini Bluff Vacation Rental
People say if there's a heaven on Earth it must be Kauai, and this Anini Bluff vacation rental is nothing short of celestial. Located above Anini Beach, this is such a great location - the ocean views are awesome, and it's safe, quiet, and just minutes from the great beaches and all the amenities...
Honey Moonin’ on Kauai
Do you know the origin of the word “honeymoon?” In days gone by, newlyweds drank honey wine for one whole “moon cycle” after their wedding to promote fertility and prosperity. Romantic, huh? If you’re planning a wedding or a honeymoon on Kauai, check out this Hawaiian cottage at Anini Beach on the...
Ultimate Greens: Golfing on Kauai
Golf aficionados are chomping at the bit (foaming at the tee?) awaiting the opening of the new 18-hole Tom Weiskopf course at Kukui'ula on the south shore. Slated to open in 2011, the 216-acre course is more challenging than traditional resort layouts and promises to be a uniquely “island-style”...
Boot Camp and Bikinis!
Our beloved Prince Spa is closing for renovations Oct. 29 (boo hoo), but there's a new workout studio above Bank of Hawaii in the Princeville Shopping Center: Summer Lawton's "Fit Kauai." I've been going to Summer for personal training and OMG, she is amazing... so knowledgeable. I had a hurt knee...
Oskar’s Boutique in Kilauea Town
Oskars Boutique, renowned for its extensive collection of unique & hard-to-find clothing & accessories. This little Boutique has made it's name on Kauai's North Shore as the 'hot spot' to quench the shopping thirst for visitors and local folks alike (especially ME!)... Within the brick...
Paradise and Chocolate = Heaven on Earth.
Recently we found one of those ‘hidden gems’ of a tour on Kauai that is not only fun for all ages, but delicious, educational and in tune with our shift to sustainability and organically grown food. Garden Island Chocolate, a fledgling company, has the only locally grown and produced chocolate...
Yes, We Have Bananas (and SO much more…)
Banana Joe's, the sweet and funky yellow fruit stand on the mauka (mountain) side of the main highway just north of Kilauea is a Kauai institution. It's one of my favorite places to pick up fresh produce, and my boys love their “frosties”—a healthy alternative to ice cream. They put frozen fruits...
My Parents Went to Kauai & All I Got…
Ever since the 1950’s when Marlon Brando showcased the T-shirt in the movie On the Waterfront the Beefy-T walking billboard has been adorned with every slogan, and example of artwork known to man and without a doubt is the most popular ’traveling gift’ for vacationers. The MOST Popular Traveling...