Adrenaline Junky's Guide

Description:

Owned and operated by a former professional hang glider, this business caters to daredevils, adrenaline junkies and other people with no fear whatsoever of flying. The adventure begins on the ground, but shortly moves to hundreds of feet above sea level, and that is just the beginning! You and the instructor will soar like a bird above the cerulean seas of Kauai. If you like it, there are full training courses available. If you have doubts, do not worry: After ten years, the business has a flawless safety record and the approval of the FAA.

Description:

Shipwreck Beach lies on the southern Kauai shoreline and south of the Hyatt Regency Kauai. Because it lies south of the island, summer is the time for high surf on this beach. During the months of May through September everyone should use extra care when entering the water. Other seasons bring more mild conditions, but caution should be exercised by everyone but experts at this beach with a short, and often dangerous, shore break.

Drive westward on Kaumualii Highway (50). Turn left on to Maluhia Road and follow it to Poipu Road. Follow Poipu Road passed Poipu Beach Park. Shipwreck Beach lies between Poipu Beach Park and the Hyatt Regency Kauai.

Description:

This plantation-style condo resort is reminiscent of old Hawaii. Occupying 35 lush acres, the resort lies between beautiful Poipu Beach and Poipu Shopping Village. All 42 suites and bungalows feature full kitchens, daily maid service, private lanais or garden terraces. Tranquil grounds feature a cactus garden and use of a new "Super Pool" across the street. Accommodations are not air conditioned. The resort hosts a seasonal children's program.

Description:

For those of you that want to go on a kayak tour, but aren't sure which one is best, stop here. Outfitters provides the best and most exciting kayak tours on the Island hands down! This exciting tour begins on the beautiful Hule'ia River where you will pass the historic Menuhune Fish Pond. The tour then hikes to the tractor, where they take you on a scenic tour through the valley, onto their zip line and ending up at Kipu Falls. While at Kipu, visitors have a chance to jump off of a real waterfall and ride the rope swing launching you into a deep natural pool! Do not miss this tour if you plan on kayaking while on Kauai!

Description:

If there were a saimin hall of fame, Hamura's would be in it. It's a cultural experience, a renowned saimin stand where fans line up to take their places over steaming bowls of this island specialty at a few U-shaped counters that haven't changed in decades. The saimin and teriyaki barbecue sticks attract an all-day, late-night, pre- and post-movie crowd. The noodles come heaped with vegetables, wontons, hard-boiled eggs, sweetened pork, vegetables, and condiments. We love the casualness of Hamura's and the simple pleasures it consistently delivers.

Description:

This 22-acre resort is just up the street from ritzy Princeville Resort , overlooking the fabled Bali Hai cliffs and Hanalei Bay. It has the same majestic view, and until recently was a deal. But on our last visit here we were bitterly disappointed in the level of upkeep, the musty smell in our unit, general maintenance and repair work that needed to be done to the entire property, weeds in the once pristine landscape, and so forth. New management claims they are aware of the problems and are diligently working to make the necessary repairs and bring this once fabulous resort back. I'm keeping my fingers crossed that they will follow through because I have always loved staying here: Guests can choose from units ranging from a hotel room to a studio or one-bedroom suite (with kitchen). The units all stair-step down the hill to a gold-sand, palm-fringed beach. Shuttle service is available for those who may have problems walking on the steep hillside. Plus: Travelers should be aware that this property offers timeshares.

Facilities: Restaurant; bar; 2 inviting outdoor freshwater pools; complimentary shuttle to Princeville Resort's top-ranked golf courses; 8 tennis courts, pro shop, and tennis school; Jacuzzi; concierge; activities desk; massage; babysitting; coin-op washer/dryers; laundry; dry cleaning

Description:

Feeling adventurous? Take the 4 mile hike out to Hanakapi'ai Falls along the majestic Na Pali Trail. Hikers begin their journey fm Ke'e Beach along the Na Pali Trail for 2 miles to Hanakapi'ai Beach. Enjoy the scenery, but do not swim here as the conditions can be unforgiving. Turn left up the valley and follow the trail across swimming holes and beautiful high jungle, all the way to Hanakapi'ai Falls. These falls are breathtaking from their origins 100's of feet up all the way down to the swimming hole at the bottom. This is a truly rewarding experience, and a great way for experienced hikers to enjoy the Na Pali Coast in a single day.