ALEKONA KAUAI Blog

Kauai’s north shore, with its quaint villages, winding roads over single-lane bridges, and pristine beaches, will transport you to a place and time reminiscent of old Hawaii. At the end of the road, Haena State Park is home to Ke’e Beach and is also the starting point for both the Hanakapiai beach and waterfall trail and the Kalalau Trail. Haena State Park is open daily from 7 am to 6:45...

Every year, thousands of people converge on Kauai to celebrate Koloa Plantation Days, a celebration commemorating the history of the sugar plantation life and its economic and cultural influence. When Koloa Sugar Plantation began operating in 1835, it was the beginning of an industry that would transform the future of Kauai and the rest of the state. Soon, workers flocked from countries all over the world – Japan, China, Philippines,...

The Makauwahi Cave Reserve in Poipu is one of Kauai’s hidden archeological gems.  A fantastic activity for kids, the 17-acre ancient archeological site, with a huge limestone cave as the main attraction, was home to many now extinct species including the turtle jawed moa-nalo bird and the blind and flightless Kaua‘i mole duck. It’s the kind of site that archeologists drool over. Since the early 90’s, archeologists David Burney and...

For an island that is only 90 miles from one end to the other (25 miles inaccessible by vehicle), Kauai boasts an impressive roster of award-winning golf courses, many designed by world-renowned golf course architects such as Robert Trent Jones Jr., Tom Weiskopf and Jack Nicklaus. Kauai’s year-round sunny weather and cool ocean tradewinds mean that golf can be an everyday activity and there is plenty of variety to keep...

The Koloa Heritage Trail on Kauai’s south shore is a treasure hunt of the past. All the gold that can be found on this map are within each stop, where landmarks, scenic lookouts and monuments showcase Koloa and Poipu’s rich history, dating from pre-contact Kauai to present day. The self-guided 10-mile Koloa Heritage Trail, or Ka Ala Hele Waiwai Hoolina o Koloa, winds through numerous historical, cultural and geological sites....

At only 2.8 square miles, the town of Poipu on Kauai is filled with things to do and see.  Whether you are looking for action packed adventure or a restful getaway, Poipu offers a little bit everything to make your trip memorable. 1. The Perpetual Sunshine – Although Kauai is known for having one of the wettest spots on earth, Poipu remains sunny throughout most of the year.  The sun,...

Surfing is as iconic to Hawaii as hula at a luau. Nearly year-round sunny days and warm water temperatures give Poipu the feel of having seemingly endless summers. No trip to Poipu is complete without trying your hand at surfing at least once. Once you get the feel of walking on water, we can guarantee that you will never want to stop. Check out the best places for Poipu surf...

To attend a bon dance on Kauai is a magical and spiritual experience. A bon dance, which is celebrated during the obon season, is a Buddhist ceremony performed by the Japanese culture to honor the spirit of one’s ancestors. The tradition of obon began in Japan over 500 years ago. It is based on the story in Buddhist transcripts of a devout monk who happily danced with joy when releasing...

Kaua‘i is not known for mega malls or upscale stores, however many treasures can be had shopping in Kauai’s quaint and charming towns. Sometimes strolling through the small shops and boutiques can be the best rejuvenation after hours spent in the sun. Kauai is also fully equipped to cover all your needs while on island, with large stores such as Walmart and Costco and a number of grocery stores.  From...

Kauai, the oldest of the Hawaiian Island chain, has long been called “The Garden Island.” 4,000 feet above sea level, away from the beaches and resort districts is Kokee State Park. Spread over 4,345 acres, there are 45 miles of hiking trails, camping and picnic areas, scenic lookouts, cabins for lodging, the Kokee Natural History Museum, and Kokee Lodge restaurant. The best way to experience and appreciate Kokee’s beauty is...