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Hanalei & Princeville
Kauai Island
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Kilauea is the first landmark as you enter the stunning north coast. The quaint plantation village has several old churches but the highlight here is the Kilauea National Wildlife Refuge. A short walk to Kilauea Point leads to a spectacular cliff where you can spot frigates and boobies amongst other nesting sea birds as well as Hawaiian monk seals, whales, dolphins and turtles. Heading west along the north coast are a string of remote cove beaches with rough tracks leading down to them and only a few places for parking along the road ensuring relative privacy. These culminate at Princeville, a large purpose built resort area on the east side of Hanalei Bay with golf courses and great views.
Hanalei Valley on the north shore of Kauai is one of the most attractive and tranquil places in all the islands. Backed by incredibly beautiful mountains with waterfalls tumbling down its sheer sides, Hanalei is a sprawling community of wooden houses in pretty gardens with lots of one lane bridges running over streams that overflow after rain. Set alongside the equally compelling Hanalei Bay with its lovely swimming beach, Hanalei is a favourite destination for discerning travellers. Walking tracks into valleys and kayaking up streams and around Hanalei Bay are favourite day activities. There are two particularly scenic lookouts. The Hanalei Valley scenic overlook peers down into the valley floor with its neat squares of taro plantations hemmed in by irrigation streams. The valley is a designated Wildlife Sanctuary rich in native water birds including the Hawaiian coot, duck and stilt, and is a peaceful place to explore. The other, a mile to the north of Hanalei Town, is the overlook at Lamaha'i Beach towards the stunning tropical backdrop and serrated mountains. Swimming is usually safe in summer at the sheltered Hanalei Bay with its sandy bottom, the bay also being a popular summer anchorage for visiting yachts.
Undoubtedly the most picturesque Kauai beaches are those on the north shore, in particular Haena, Lumahai and Ke'e. What makes these north shore beaches so special is the stunning backdrop of rugged mountains and deep emerald green valleys. At Haena, you can walks for miles along the coast taking in the breathtaking coastal scenery in both directions. Unfortunately the currents along most of the north shore are extremely dangerous and the only safe sea activity is fishing from the beach which is excellent. Ke'e has a small protected lagoon which is good for swimming and snorkelling. Beyond Ke'e, the road ends and the rugged Na Pali Coast takes over. This is the starting point of the Kalau Trail, a stunning walk that meanders over valleys hugging the steep coastline.
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continue to ... Poipu Beach & the South Coast
Readers may also be interested in the following destinations:
Cook Islands Travel Guide
Fiji Travel Guide
Samoa Travel Guide
Tonga Travel Guide
Tahiti Travel Guide
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