Tuesday, March 11 - Waimea Canyon

Kauai
We had our rental car and chose not to go with the tour group today. Instead, we traveled around the island's southern coast then up the western side of the island to the Waimea Canyon. It is known as the Grand Canyon of the Pacific. We stopped in Lihu'e for breakfast then continued up the coast. Our waitress at breakfast suggested that we take the mountain route up and then the ocean route back. Good choice. It was beautiful. At our first stop, we met up with another couple that had been there numerous times. They suggested that we not stop at all on the way out to the the end of the canyon drive, but go to the end of the road first. This was to ensure that we get there before the clouds set in. We followed their suggestion and made our way to the end of the canyon drive. We got there and followed a couple of trails to a viewing area for the Na Pali coastilne. Spectacular. We then stopped at some of the viewing areas on the way back. Of course, on the way back we stopped in Kekaha for ice cream, at Lappert's, then made our way to the "blow hole", called Spouting Horn, along the coast. That was real cool. Our last stop was at the Wailua Falls. This was the water falls that was best known for its use in "Fantasy Island". It was gorgeous. After closing our eyes and making our way past the "Do not go beyond this point" signs, we hiked 30 minutes to the bottom of the falls for what was an even better view. Of course, then we had to climb back out again using ropes, roots and rocks. We were all sweaty and muddy, but we had a great time. Last night, we had dinner at a local restaurant called Olympic Cafe, overlooking downtown Kapa'a. Karen and Sheri had the Ahi sandwich and Nolan and myself had an Ahi burrito.

Todays Pictures
Trip Photo Summary