re: Kauai, HI Honeymoon

Went to Kauai for the first time 10 years ago and have gone back every two years since. I know there are places as beautiful in the world but it is without a doubt the greatest "paradise" I have visited.

The Northern/North Eastern side is the most scenic. The views inland from the coast are gorgeous from Kapa'a through Anahole, Kiluea, Princeville to the end of the road at Ke'e a Beach in Haena.

Princeville is a great jumping off point to go east or west and there are plenty of condos to rent either on the cliffs overlooking the ocean or the golf courses. We stay at Pali Ke Kua condos and always rent one on the cliff. Pu'u Po'a condos are right next door and are very nice also. They share a trail that switchbacks down the cliff side to Hideaways Beach which is small, secluded and good for snorkeling. Both places are next door to the St. Regis Resort overlooking Hanalei Bay. You can walk to Queens Bath from your condo as well.

Tunnels Beach is my favorite beach for a 3-5 hour stay. The snorkeling there is awesome from knee deep water on out to deeper water. It is about 400 yards from where you park at Haena Beach Park. BUT.....The Ultimate Kauai Guidebook tells you a shortcut cut through off the road so you don't have to carry your stuff 400 yards in sand. You are also tight underneath Bali Hai at Haena BP and it's a great scenic place.

Ke'e beach is another scenic place to spend 3 or more hours. It is where Na Pali Coast begins on the North side. The Kalalau trail starts there as well and the 2 mile hike to Kalalau Beach is very worthwhile. That trail is actually 11 Miles one way(9 more miles after the beach) but it's pretty hardcore, requires a permit and most people overnight at the 11 mile mark and hike out the next day.

The Awa'Awa'Pui trail is my favorite hike....ever. It is only 4 miles to the scenic overlook and 4 miles back out. You hike out to the edge of one on the Na Pali ridges towering 3000 feet over the Pacific. The guidebook has the direction to get there but this should be done the day that you visit Waimea Canyon as the trailhead is at the top of the canyon road.

Just get the book no matter what and study before you go. Having been 5 times, I would suggest you spend most time on the North side starting in Kapa'a. Don't get me wrong, the South side is beautiful by normal standards but not nearly as lush and tropical feeling as the North.....due to rainfall differences. The south looks more like Wyoming or places out west. If you were going to play gold everyday, I would suggest PoiPou as that area has awesome golf courses. Knowing what I know now, I would designate one day to going to Waimea Canyon and hiking Awa'Awa'Pui trail and another day exploring PoiPou, Hanapepe and Polihale Beach Park. Two full days on the south and the rest from Kapa'a Town over to Haena.

Not sure when you are going but they only start the Na Pali a Coast cataraman tours in May. If you do one, make sure they start on the North end....not the South. The ones starting in the South don't even get up to the most scenic areas before turning around. Helicopter tour was okay but I wouldn't pay the fee to do it again. Princeville Ranch has a good zip line course and horseback riding for a fun half day excursion.

To damn much to mention. Get the book.