We needed a rest Friday, so when we realized it was pouring rain in the southwest, where we were, we decided to just get in the car and drive away from the rain. We drove up the entire coast to the very northern tip of the island, and there was no rain! We watched surfers on the biggest waves I have ever seen, which was pretty awesome to see. They make it look effortless. We ate Bubba burgers and then headed back down the coast, where we got some fish tacos, and then headed to Poipu beach (where most of the hotels are located). We got some Puka dogs and then decided to head back. Then we hit up happy hour outside and snacked on shrimp. This weekend just happened to be the annual Waimea town festival, which we all wanted to check out. It was like a Hawaiian carnival, and we got to try some specialties. We tried corndogs, fried poi (which was weird), flying sauced hamburger pies, and pork lau lau. A fat kids dream! There was local bands and a beer garden, and it was a really fun thing to experience.
Saturday, we woke up at 4:45 am so we could drive up to the northern tip of the island and do the 8 mile hike to Hanakapia’a Falls. We got there at 7am for sunrise and were the first ones on the trail. The views during the first 2 miles were breathtaking. We were walking along the northern coast of Kauai and the water was pure blue and the waves were amazing, and huge. After 2 miles, we made it to a rocky beach for a break. After this, the hike got more challenging and skinny at times. We had to cross several running streams and climb slippery rocks, but he payoff was worth it. We made it to the 300 foot waterfall (first ones of the day) and it was unbelievable! Nate and Dave swam under the fall, while I snapped some pictures. I was in awe of the size of the waterfall. It was by far the largest and most amazing I have ever seen. And we had it all to ourselves. On the hike back, we started to see people, and the trail was muddier and more slippery. The last mile was hard for me, due to my tiredness and the crowded, slippery trail. I felt a huge sense of accomplishment for completing the hike in 5 and a half hours and keeping up with the boys :) We were all famished, so we decided to head back home and stop for tacos on our way. We stopped at Dave’s favorite place, Verde, and absolutely gorged ourselves on chips, margaritas, and pork/fish tacos. It really hit the spot! Then we headed to Poipu beach, and Nate and Dave fell asleep on the beach, hard. I went for a swim and relaxed. We decided to just get Poke from the local market and make some rice and enjoy a dinner at home. Delicious ending to a tiring day!
Sunday, we slept in and decided on a beach day. We went to Polihale beach, which is only accessible by a 4 mile dirt, pot hole filled, muddy road! Crazy ride, but the beach was huge and gorgeous. The view was beach on one side and staggering cliffs on the other. It was windy, and the waves were really rough. Swimming was a challenge, but fun! Nate tried to surf, and then we all realized we were rocked from the sun! Successful beach day. We had a reservation for a fancy shmancy dinner at the Beach House in Poipu on the water. We left early to catch the sunset and had an amazing fish dinner on the water. It was definitely the way to end an amazing island vacation!
Dave was the best host! Thanks for having us :)
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