My Island life: Kauai, Hawaii 

I gazed down in awe at the Hawaiian Islands, which charmed me from the airplane, and landed on the Garden Isle of Kauai. 

From the majestic Na Pali Coast to the breathtaking Waimea Canyon, Kauai boasts some of the world’s most spectacular natural wonders. The “Na Pali” means “the cliffs” in Hawaiian, and as its name suggests, the coastline is so rugged that it can only be explored by foot via the famous Kalalau trail, or by boat or air. The Kalalau trail, 22-miles out and back, has been named one of the most beautiful, dangerous and adventurous hikes in the world. You must get an overnight permit up to 90 days in advance if you plan to complete the whole trail of the Napali Coast State Wilderness Park. It is limited to 60 permits released each day, and they often sell out in few minutes. I was fortunate to obtain an overnight permit with backpacking gears. Full of expectation, I prepared for an epic adventure in Kauai. 

Unfortunately, I was told that due to a local outbreak of Norovirus, the entire trail was closed, and my epic plan was canceled. Such a true heartbreak for me! I know travel is not always perfect, and I adjusted my vibes and itinerary, and had an indeed amazing unexpected detour instead. 

My thrilling air adventure 

I embarked on an even more epic sightseeing and thrilling adventure from the air, revealing how the Na Pali Coast is so beautiful, luring me into the magic of this matchless isle. I took the doors-off helicopter (Jack Harter Helicopters), totally different from my any past flying experience, the wind in my hair, and gazed down the unobstructed stunning landscapes: a sea of clouds, emerald-green canyons, cascading waterfalls, dramatic cliffs, pristine beaches, lush valleys, and majestic Na Pali Coast in all its rugged glory. 

Soaring thousands of feet above the island, I could feel my legs shaking, a little scary instinctively, with the doors removed. Till now, my legs were still shaking from it. I would highly recommend if you are not afraid of heights and your budget allows. 

My island time 

Due to my canceled backpacking trip, I slowed down completely to deeply taste the island’s authenticity and scenery. While the island is circular, the road is almost exclusively one way each way, so the travel time from north shore to the south shore or west side will take more than one hour (one way). I stayed at the north shore, my favorite area of Kauai, crossed many one-lane bridges and narrow and winding roads, sometimes with rain drizzling onto my car window. I gazed out at Waiʻoli Hui’ia Church and Mission House surrounded by lush mountains and greenery at Hanalei Town, stepping back into time to the 1830s. 

The roosters show up anywhere. I listened to their “noises” every morning. They are natural alarm clocks. I tasted the exceptional pineapple smoothies, I found the best poke bowl at the island, like a local resident living on the island. I stopped to smell those beautiful flowers and observe their intricate textures and colors close-up, like artist Georgia O’Keeffe, ode to a flower, never in rush on this tiny island.

The most interesting experience is that I have a pretty casual attitude about Kauai’s unpredictable crazy weather: it is completely normal to have a rain storm in one location, then the weather can be completely sunny only a couple of minutes down the road, or there can be a rain storm that will pass by, one minute pouring and then a few minutes later, sun beaming and the birds chirping. It also fascinates me that the weather can be so different depending on how close or far away you are from the mountains. Welcome to the tropics!   

My outdoor adventure 

The sun strong on my head, I did a day hike of the Canyon trail to Waipo’o Falls trail at beautiful Waimea Canyon State Park, located on the west side of the island. It is described as “The Grand Canyon of the Pacific”. Even it is not a challenging trail, I got my heart racing and witnessed the geological wonder and panoramic views of crested buttes, rugged crags, and deep valley gorges up close. My body sweat after finishing the trail. Traveling to the park was truly an enjoyable scenic drive. I took Highway 550 to the canyon, and headed back via Highway 552 for a different view, the spectacular coastal awaiting me at the end. 

Due to high surf, I chose to swim and snorkel at Anini Beach at the north shore, where the water is relatively calm. I swam to the middle of the ocean; saw the beautiful coral reef and fish, felt the energy of the sun as it reflected on the water, discovering the quiet power within. The water got deeper the farther I went. I almost used up my energy for return. (Note: Please check surf conditions before you go on ocean adventure for safety). 

I was told that the first 2-miles of Kalalau Trail is reopened. I took the shuttle to the trailhead at 6:20 AM as early bird the next day, with lots of excitement. Even though I could not complete a full trail this time, I still witnessed its challenges and danger. As I approached the trail, I noted the trail was soaked from a recent heavy rain. I was hiking on a bunch of uneven rocks lining the trail and climbed steadily for the first mile to an elevation of 400 feet. 

Then, I saw breathtaking rugged coastal views, and listened to the soothing sound, waves crashing dramatically against the sea cliffs, as fresh air blew my face. I passed by some small stream crossings, but the hardest crossing is the Hanakapi’ai Stream which flows straight to the ocean, located 2 miles into the trail right before the Hanakapi’ai Beach. I tried to pass it by boulder hopping, due to the rapid flow of water and the slick rocks, and one of my legs fell in the water. I decided to get my boots wet to cross, such a thrilling adventure. I can imagine that if I carry a heavy backpack, it will make the crossing more challenging. Although there were certainly further adventures ahead on Kalalau Trail (another 9 miles), access was not allowed when I was there. 

I headed inland to the Hanakapa’ai Falls, on a narrow path with the tree covered following the river upstream. I crossed many large bamboos swaying against the breeze, tons of guava were on the ground, the odor was heavenly as a nice treat for my venture through the wilderness. Suddenly, the uneven and rocky pathway was awash by pouring rain, it got much slicker and muddier than before, I scrambled on the rocks and crossed several river and rapid streams, it took some help to go from one rock to the other.

At this rainy condition, I do not recommend hiking this trail solo, especially because rocks were quite slippery, and the area has also been known for flash floods. I witnessed several hikers fall on the trail. Be careful! I made it to the magnificent Hanakapi’ai Falls tucked away in a lush green valley. 

On my return, I got soaked with water again in the forest sections. The mud complicated the hike, but I did not mind getting dirty and muddy; I just leaned into the good vibe. 

As a good test of Kalalau Trail, I would say it is truly a bucket list hike. It is more suitable for the active and experienced hiker, especially the footing on the steep cliff if raining, as it will increase the risk. It calls me back for round 2, to complete the whole 22-mile trail in my adventurous journey. Cross my heart! 

The rain stopped, I felt exhausted. 

When tidal thrill meets tropical bliss 

On my last day, I embarked on an exhilarating Zodiac Raft Adventure (Ride with Na Pali Coast Rider) to capture Na Pali Coast with a new angle. It is different from a traditional boat tour: Zodiac Raft is a wild, high speed, turbulent adventure over waves and unpredictable ocean conditions that include sharp turns and maneuvers through sea caves up and down the coastline. 

I was treated to incredible scenes from magnificent beaches, towering cliffs, verdant valleys, thundering waterfalls, to mysterious sea caves (only can access these hidden gems by water). The Na Pali Coast is truly a very special place. I hugged its picturesque and rugged coastline up close at the sea, very different from a bird’s eye view in the air, it never ceases to amaze. 

The most beautiful moment happened at the end of the adventure. Plenty of dolphins swam around the raft playfully, they jumped high and spun on their tails before landing back into the water! Baby dolphins were dancing with their moms. The fantastic “show” sent an unforgettable aloha to me, made the most beautiful ending for my Kauai adventure! Mahalo! 

Bravely mini adventure to Polihale Beach

My adventure was not over yet. I decided to visit Polihale Beach spontaneously, a remote and most beautiful place on the island, sitting at the end of Na Pali Coast and the edge of the Mana Palins, also the residents’ favorite beach. Going there was not easy at all, especially the last 5 miles of unpaved and horrendously bumpy dirt road to access this gorgeous stretch of beach, scared us. I checked many times to make sure my car was accessible, due to not having a 4-wheel drive vehicle, it was moving very slowly, it took me about 40 minutes (one way) for the last 5 miles under dry weather. When I saw the unparalleled ocean view, all efforts and risks were worth it. 

It boasts miles of unspoiled, golden sands that stretch as far as the eye can see. My toes sunk into the deep but soft and powdery shorelines, it was scorching at noon, the strong sun kissed my skin. I strolled along the coastline, was mesmerized by the gentle rhythm of the cerulean waves lapping against the shore, finding solace in a place that promises tranquility.

Energy speaks louder than words. My body and brain were yelling… I know, I had a TRUE adventure. 

Kauai is one of those destinations that will leave me wanting to return time and time again. I always marvel at the rugged beauty of the coastline and capture those unforgettable memories against the backdrop of nature’s masterpiece. 

Mahalo for the most exhausting and productive adventure, Kauai! See you soon!