Na Pali Cliffs, Kauai

The north shore of Kauai is dominated by the steep Na Pali cliffs. The cliffs provide a rugged grandeur of deep, narrow valleys ending abruptly at the sea. Waterfalls and swift running streams continue to cut into these narrow valleys while the sea carves cliffs at their mouths. We hiked a part of the Kalalau trail from Kee Beach to Hanakapiai Beach. This is about a 4 mile round trip and offers spectacular views. The trail can be steep, wet, muddy, and slippery, and it was all of these on the day we hiked. The weather was beautiful, however, and it was a fine hike.

Wailua Falls

Wailua falls on the Wailua River is easily accessed by paved road from Lihue and is certainly worth the trip. The 80 foot falls were shown during the opening credits of the television show "Fantasy Island". In ancient times, Hawaiian chiefs would dive over the cliff into the pool to prove their courage. Only persons of royal blood were considered sufficiently courageous and powerful to perform this feat. Since I am not of royal blood, I didn't try the dive.

Waimea Canyon (Kokee State Park)

Kokee State Park is a rugged mountainous region 15 Mi. north of Kekaha on Kokee Road. Waimea Canyon, called "The Grand Canyon of the Pacific" by Mark Twain, can be viewed from many lookout points along the highway. Waimea canyon road requires cautious driving, but offers superb views of the canyon, waterfalls, and Nihau Island. Hiking is possible from many trailheads along the road.

Kilauea

Off the coast of Kilauea, porpoises, sea turtles, and humpback whales are often spotted within 100 yards of shore during the winter. Two miles off Hwy. 56, past the old sugar mill and post office, a rough road leads to a bluff overlooking the coast. An old lighthouse on the bluff no longer operates, but the area has been turned into a National Seabird Sanctuary and includes the nesting grounds of the Red Footed Booby. Many different types of birds can be easily observer from the lighthouse area.

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