Hawaiian Vacation

Actual date ~ September - October 2005 (if anyone knows how to change the date let me know)
After a Winter on the Ice.... Vacationing in Hawaii proved to be the perfect destination. Sun, sand and lots of relaxing made for a happy Geoff and Danielle.

Three days on the island of Oahu was enough for us. If you like the city life and shopping then Waikiki is where you'd want to be, but not for us. We had a good day of snorkeling at Hanauma Bay. We both saw turtles and many beautiful varieties of fish. But we were both were ready to head to Kauai.

As soon as we stepped off the plane the relaxed vibe of the island was undeniable. Open courtyards in the airport, green lush gardens and chickens roaming everywhere. We spent the first night in Kapaa preparing for our hike along the Na Pali Coast and enjoying some wonderful fresh food. Sushi and smoothies from an organic restaurant hit the spot.

The next morning we drove an hour to the Kalalau Trail. The hike consisted of 11 miles of steep hills and valleys. Guavas trees and beautiful flowers were everywhere. Momma and baby goats also roamed around the trails. After quite a few hours of hiking on steep cliffs the paradise called Kalalau was much more beautiful than we anticipated. A fresh water cave, waterfall and sunsets over the crystal blue water all just steps from our camp site. We were even invited for beer and dinner by some locals that call the valley home.... which of course made Geoff very happy.

We spent a few days basking in the sun (me wearing SPF 45 due to her pale Antarctic winter skin) and then it was time to head out.

With two nights before our next planned stop, we decided to play tourist back in the town of Kappaa. Both of us ready for a feast, we decided to check out a luau. An all you can eat buffet, free Mai Tai's and entertainment made for a nice relaxing night.

Next stop ~ The Coconut Hut. Just a short walk from the beach and away from noise, except for the occasional wakeup call from the local chickens, no phone or TV and an outdoor shower were just some of the highlights of the hut. The owners even helped us plan a Zip lining trip. Which of course Geoff was not even somewhat scared of..... and I considered terrifying at first, but after two zips across enjoyed the breeze and view from top. The biggest town near the Coconut Hut is Hanalei Bay. We made a few trips there for shopping, fruity beverages and a wonderful organic dinner at Postcards restaurant. Which we highly recommend if you love fresh local fish and delicious tofu dishes.

We enjoyed many walks on the beach at sunset and relaxing on the sand. Geoff was quite the fish insisting on swimming every time we were near the water. After reading about the beautiful fish right out our doorstep, we decided to rent masks and fins and check it out. While I was doing my lazy man's snorkeling with a bodyboard and floating along, Geoff of course decided to venture out a little further. His reward ~ more turtles and the best of all.... a reef shark.

We loved our stay in Hawaii and guarantee we will make another trip to paradise very soon.