Kauai Island: Wandering in the Midst of Pandemic
“I missed the slow pace life in Kauai”; line that I always utter every time the vivid evocation of Kauai strikes in my memory lane. Now I understand why every person who stepped their foot in this island is hooked and simply fell in love on their adventure of a lifetime.
This juanderventure is not a typical adventure that we used to have. This is what you call the new normal of wandering.
After the first stay-@-home-order was lifted in all Hawaiian island, we bandits decided to go somewhere in the neighboring island after three months of locking ourselves at the tiki nest (our abode’s name). Bandit and I always wanted to visit Kauai since last year. So, when we got the chance to travel without quarantining for 14-days for inter-island travel, we booked our two way ticket to the garden isle. With Covid-19 still present at these times, a lot of changes took place in traveling from cruising checkpoints and the amount of time to do the whole process. Stricter policy is being implemented as well like wearing mask in the whole duration of travel, taking body temperature before entering the premises, disinfecting the passenger and a maintained 6 feet away from others.
As soon as we landed Kauai everything went smooth. The personnel may stricter but it was a fast transaction to sum up. Once the busiest place turns out to be an eerily quiet airport (except for the airport announcements that made an echo). Especially in Lihue Airport, it was like an abandon airport. On a positive note there is no long queue happened, touch-less technology and no crowds. Something that I dreamed of in an airport a long time ago.
It was a well spent seven days on the island. It was still a surreal feeling despite the closure of the most establishments and tour companies. Because of Covid-19, there are limited things to do in the island at this moment which is not a big deal at all as we are here to experience a new place and able to taste the adventure of what this island is able to give us these times. It is also important to note that there might be a sensitive situation that might occur amongst local people living in here towards tourists like us. Respect and further understanding is what you need to show them during these times. After all protecting their Ohana is still the number one priority of the island.
A Little Bit About Kaua’i Island
Welcome to Kauai, occasionally called “The Garden Isle”. This oldest and northernmost island in the Hawaiian chain, gives its people a strong appreciation for local history and culture.
Thousands of miles from any significant land mass, the small tropical island of Kauai has kept herself enthralled and mysterious. It is characterized by its wealth of lush, dense jungle, gushing waterfalls, pristine white sand beaches, rugged peaks and small towns that will take you back in Hawaii as you imagined 30-50 years ago.
Kauai is no stranger to rain. This is one of the reason why the island is covered with thick tropical rainforest consisting with different floras on its surrounding. In fact, this island is one of the rainiest places on Earth.
Lies at the edge of tropical zone, the garden isle technically has two seasons which both are warm. Dry season corresponds to summer while rainy season runs during the winter from November to March.
In Kauai, chickens/wild fowls gone wild at times. Wherever you are through the duration of your vacation, you will see them on the sides of the road everyday scratching the ground while others are waiting for you to hurl them some corns or some bread crumbs. I had fun wild chasing with them at the Waimea State Park and in town of Kapaa. Do not hesitate to stop and take them a snap of photos as a souvenir without harming them.
Accommodation
Plenty of roofs you can choose to stay depending on your budget. From B&B to complete luxurious island experience, both can instill a dose of comfort you are seeking. In our case, we hit a jackpot!
After a lot of attempts to find a place to stay for our seven day trip, we ended up staying at Plantation Hale Suites and scored the best price at agoda.com. We couldn’t be more happier. Covid-19 price saves our wallet big time. You cannot beat $80 per night, and knowing it ain’t crowded and less tourists checking-in.
Situated in the Royal Coconut Coast, Plantation Hale Suites is the perfect place to enjoy Kauai at its finest. Just a 13-minute drive to Lihue Airport and in close proximity to gorgeous beaches, scenic hiking trails, coastal walking & bike paths. There is also an assortment of specialty shops and dining options nearby.
Our room comes with a spacious 725-sq-foot room, private lanai with pool area view. King size bed and a queen sleeper sofa are really a generous comfort for the both of us. We also took advantage on its full kitchen which we cook our Onolicious (delicious in Hawaiian term) food that we marketed from local groceries and farmer’s market. It also has its dining area, living room, sitting area and owned bathroom with bath tub. And of course, my favorite view that we have in the morning and evening is the pool side. I can prowl anytime if I wanted to have a rejuvenating treat from jacuzzi.
In these pandemic times, certain instructions are being imposed. Housekeeping has their own scheduled time to sanitize and clean the room. Every time you go out the premises, wearing your mask is a must.
Things To Do During Pandemic
Since things are not in a complete normal state, do not expect the following in this island:
- your favorite restaurant/s you wanna dine is gonna open;
- all tourist spots and hiking trails are gonna be open;
- all souvenir shops are gonna open for you;
- tour group activities are all available;
- witness a luau;
But on the side note expect less traffic, less crowd which means no possible photo bombers for your instagrammable photo collection. As much as we wanted to dine in a local restaurants, we don’t have the control of everything. It’s gonna be one of the reasons that we need to be back in this enchanted island; to experience the boat tours at Na Pali Coast or a coffee/chocolate farm tour. Or to have a closer view on the wildlife like dolphins, monk seals and those nesting seabirds at the Kilauea Point National Wildlife Refuge. There are lot of things we did not able to accomplish in our itinerary, but still we were able to make this trip worth memorable from the activities we were able to do. The moment we leave the island, we carried a dose of fun learning experience in this week vacation.
Without further ado, the following are few of the activities you can do during Covid-19 at the garden isle:
1. Ninini Point Lighthouse
The very first attraction that we went to is a lighthouse, which is just a few miles from the airport. We drove straight here with our lunch plate and this peaceful location serves as our view while munching on. Perfect decision we ever did on the first day.
The lighthouse is an overlook of Nawiliwili Bay. Built in 1906 the lighthouse was automated since 1953 and does not require a full time light keeper. The inside of the 86-foot structure lighthouse is closed to public but the chance to stand within the area that provides 180-degree views of the bay and surrounding ocean is a surreal and calming feeling.
2. Kuilau Ridge Trailhead
This is the first activity we did the following day. Located in Wailua-East side just past Opaeka’a Falls, almost 3-miles out and back trail. Rated as an easy hike if it’s dry but easy to moderate if it’s muddy. Just like most other hiking spots, you will be introduced to a vast of native and non-native plants in the beginning of the trail. As you hike forward, the higher elevation you can get and the more awesome views are visible. This is also a quiet and peaceful friendly-hike to do.
Going home, do not forget to make a stop to have a glimpse of Opaeka’a Falls, one of Kauai’s most accessible major waterfalls. This convenient stop offers visitors a scenic view of the cascading 151-foot tall waterfall from the overview deck. And just across the road, another view is waiting to be seen. Wailua river valley is Kauai’s major and navigable 20-miles long river. This made me gasp the moment I set my eyes on this view. Personally, rivers have a soft spot in my heart as always.
3. Kilauea Point National Wildlife Refuge
At the time we went here, it was close to public due to Covid-19 which unfortunately did not match on their website which they have not updated. We still decided to stay for a while and took some shots of Kilauea Lighthouse from the distance. We also enjoyed spying couple of migratory birds foraging, nesting and resting on trees to trees using our binoculars that we brought with us at that time. We had fun watching them closely through lens and seeing their eggs on the nest soothes the feeling knowing that they will deliver their babies safe away from human activities.
4. Kalalau Trail
This is probably the most popular hike on Kauai. Visitors from all over the world who came to visit the island highly include this activity on their itinerary. This 11-mile challenging hike along the coastal trail at Na Pali Coast requires a permit to proceed. Tap here for further information about this hike. Tip: secure a whole day to do this activity alone to enjoy more of this famous hike.
5. Ke Ala Hele Makalae (Hawaiian for “The Path That Goes By Coast”)
After the exhausted-successful experience hike on the Kalalau Trail, we need to cool off and slow down the next day. A few minute drive from where we stayed, Ke Ala Hele Makalae a 9-miles round trip is peacefully located in the East-side town of Kapa’a.
Basically it is a scenic paved trail that is perfect for strolling, jogging and bike riding. Along the way you will encounter a dozen of educational informations that is waiting to be discovered. Available public restrooms can be access at Kapaa Beach Park and Kealia Beach. This also separates the highway so it is safe for the keiki (children).
To make our fifth day a bit of adventure we rented a basic beach cruiser bikes at Hele On Kauai Bike Rentals. And because it is a coastal path we cannot help not to stop multiple times just to take photos and a lot of selfies.
PS; electric bikes and scooters are prohibited in this path.
6. Spouting Horn
Located on the southern coast of Kauai in the Koloa District, this blowhole is known for its crashing waves that can spout water up to 50-feet into the air. By the time we went here, there are only three cars parking on the lot. The whole place is so perfect as no crowd visible at all. The expansive shoreline nearby is simply calming to stare as waves are constantly pounding the shore. Spouting horn is worth the detour especially every time you see those holes bursting water a little rainbows forming visibly above it. If you are lucky like us, you will able to glimpse sea turtles in the distance as well.
7. Ke Kahua O Kaneiolouma
Without a proper itinerary at that day, we decided to just cruise around hoping to see something interesting to stop. By accident, we discovered this sacred cultural site located in the heart of Po’ipo, Koloa, Kauai. The 13-acre was the remnants of an ancient Hawaiian village (fish ponds, taro fields, shrines, makahiki arena) dating back to the mid 1400’s.
If you are around the area, do not neglect this and make sure to spare your time checking this cultural site. There were also some writings that you can read to understand a little bit of its interesting history.
8. Shipwreck Beach
This ain’t a friendly beach but it has almost everything you wanted in a beach. Located in the southern shore near Po’ipo, this beach is favorite amongst surfers and people who loves sunbathing or for those who don’t know how to swim like me. Extra cautious is a must as this beach don’t have lifeguard on duty, but showers and restrooms are accessible within the vicinity.
9. Maha’ulepo Heritage Coastal Trail
Great and one of the easiest coastal hike that Kauai offers to anybody. It is also part of Kauai History Heritage sight that has not been developed. This hike starts at Shipwreck beach and will lead you to Makauwahi cave that marks the end of the trail.
In our case, we did not able to finish the whole hike as we are so locked up with the dramatic sunset that currently happened at that moment. That was more than enough to see its beauty from an elevated area. Diving is highly prohibited so do not attempt to do so to avoid major accidents.
10. Waimea Canyon State Parks
Personally, this is top on our list to visit in Kauai. Dubbed as the Grand Canyon of the Pacific, this is truly a treasure and the highlight of our “juandering (wandering) Kauai”. This should be on anyone’s list upon visiting the island. I solely made a separate blog for this which you can check in here.
11. Wailua Falls
The shortest hike we did to a waterfall is the Wailua Falls. But beware, this is also the most difficult hike we ever did. The slippery trail makes it very challenging. Due to the steep inclined terrain, this hike is better off without kids (1-9) as possible. The mud is your tricky foe on this hike, as I slipped a couple of times and it is a worrisome feeling.
Wailua falls hike has a several trailheads. Either way, they are all challenging to take. But one thing is for sure, it will give you a dose of adventure you will never forget.
This gushing waterfall stands epically at 85-feet high and drops into a pool 30-feet deep. This falls is not a safe thing to jump, stay safe as possible. Better off swimming on the side of the pool and enjoy the waters. It is also safe to note that the drop is a bit rugged, so clear yourself away from it as it might sucked you up. A strong current occurred in the pool and staying on the edge will give you a better chance to be safe.
12. Kealia Beach
Make sure that if you decided to swim on this beach you are a seasoned swimmer and make sure lifeguards are on duty. Waves are roaring up here, which makes this popular easy access beach an ideal hideaway for bodyboarders and surfers alike.
I was almost sucked up by the waves but luckily my bandit got my arm and was able to pull me up. Just in case the waves are enough to scare you, wading and photographing or simply chilling still a worth thing to do and appreciate the gorgeous stretch of the beach.
Eateries To Dine
Having a full kitchen is an advantage for me. Aside from enjoying cooking, it is the safest act I can do to make sure that the food we eat is safely handled especially with Covid-19 standby in the corner. Having said, we hit several local supermarkets and farmer’s market to gathered everything we need in cooking.
Of course, since we are in Kauai, we took a chance to try and support several local restaurants in the island. Not all eateries are opened but few of them are serving their patrons the best way they can and we bandits are very grateful for their services. Here are few of them that we dig in:
1. Mark’s Place
This takeout restaurant located in Puhi, Kauai have served Onolicious food to hungry locals and tourists since 1998. Our first meal the moment we landed the island was here which I accordingly planned. Bookmarked this eatery a month before our trip as this garnered a good reviews on Yelp. And yes, no wonder this place was voted as Kauai’s favorite plate lunch spot. It totally hit the spot. Food approved!
2. Chicken In A Barrel BBQ – Kapa’a
This restaurant is quite famous in the island, and I don’t blame it. They hit the spot of a chicken barbecue. This one was also bookmarked in Yelp as reviews are good and chicken is life at its finest. Established in 2010, this eatery was cultivated in every locals and tourists alike as part of their phenomenal grilling wonder. Food approved!
3. Coffee Talk in Pono Market
This infamous coffee place was located inside Pono Market in the town of Kapaa. Less than 5 minutes drive from where we stayed we grab some morning drinks to help as fully awake while hitting the road going to north side of the island. It was a pretty packed coffee shop as they shared with other eateries in one building. Other than that, it was a quick transaction and we got our drinks in less than 8-minutes.
4. Java Kai
This infamous coffee place was located inside Pono Market in the town of Kapaa. Less than 5 minutes drive from where we stayed we grab some morning drinks to help as fully awake while hitting the road going to north side of the island. It was a pretty packed coffee shop as they shared with other eateries in one building. Other than that, it was a quick transaction and we got our drinks in less than 8-minutes.
5. Kaua’i Juice Co. – Kapa’a
A perfect place to grab refreshments after biking for more than two hours is definitely here. Their products are 100% gluten-free. What I love about them is that their into sustainability over profits. Example on that is they used glass containers which they can buy back from their customers and that contribute a smaller carbon footprint to Mama Earth. Both of us love the idea of Kauai Juice that is why, even though it is a bit expensive we don’t mind supporting this local business as they also did the best they could to help the community in return. Big approved! Besides, their products really quenched our thirsty buds and taste refreshingly great.
6. Eat Healthy Kaua’i
Casual vegan dining located in Kuhio Highway, Kapaa will indulge you to a wide variety of crafted and healthy menu options. My bandit needs only light meal for breakfast. And a simple bagel in here is what made him happy along the road to keep him away from his grouching belly. It was even better paired with a good hot coffee from Kauai.
7. Super No. 1
Growing up, breakfast should be fried rice with egg/sausage/meat loaf. It was a typical standard breakfast way back home, especially that we are going to do another hike, I need to make sure that my belly is taking cared of properly. Alas! I got the dream breakfast and I am loving this place at that moment. I even ordered spam as an extra side together with link sausages and two sunny-side up eggs. Obviously tummy approved on this one.
8. Kapa’a Sunshine Market
This is the only sunshine’s market that we checked in at time and the only ones that open in our Kauai duration. It was temporarily located at Kapaa Beach Park which is an easy access for the majority. We grab our fresh produce in here in a very affordable price. I was in glee as I browsed products on each stall. We appreciate how vendors follow protocols and how they scattered each of their stalls from one another. Consumers are also quick on their marketing and immediately leave the premises as soon as they got everything they need. A hand sanitizer was also available upon entering. My two eyes witnessed on how they took good care of their own community and at that moment, I know we need to do our part as well.
Indeed I will surely missed the “slow pace life in Kauai”. Though I’m long back home in Oahu, I always dreamed the less traffic in Kapaa and the untouched beauty of the island. Kauai will help reminds me that life is not a race at all. That contentment will lead you to a genuine happiness in life. Please Kauai, keep that slow pace in life there. You are undoubtedly a unique environment to be proud of.
Juander Tips & Reminders
- The garden isle is too wonderful not to take shots as much as you want, so better back up your batteries with extra spares.
- Kauai receives a lot of rain than any Hawaiian chain, bring jacket with you.
- Plan the things you need to bring when traveling to Kauai.
- Bring enough cash with you.
- Make sure to book a car before arriving the island. We use Turo app for the entire booking.
- Utmost respect should be present towards locals and the historical sites.
- Life in Kauai is in a slow pace mode, take your time and always breathe in the Aloha spirit.
- Follow all guidelines that the county of Kauai implemented.
- Last but definitely not the least, please observe the number one principle at all times wherever you are, the “LEAVE-NO-TRACE POLICY”.
Everyone knew that all islands were world’s unto themselves, that to come to an island was to come to another world.
Guy Gavriel Kay
