DAY 9: KAUA'I ~ North Coast

North Coast
The next morning we head up to the north side of Kaua'i. It's an eclectic mix: Princeville, with its manicured lawns and modern condos (reminded me so much of a golf course); Hanalei, the laid back town that is the heart of the Hawaiian taro horticulture; and the Na Pali cliffs, the only geological feature that has prevented man from encircling Kauai.

One of the best parts in travelling off-season and to a more remote island is the quietness of it all. In contrast to Honolulu's hustle & bustle and traffic jams, Kaua'i in November was blissfully peaceful. We had the beaches all to ourselves, save for the wildlife.

After driving thru modern Princeville, we come upon a one lane bridge. This bridge represented a metaphor: in driving over it, we entered into a completely different world that reflected back to the old days of traditional Hawaiian agriculture and a slow pace of life.

Hanalei Valley
As we descend, the valley opens up into massive green fields of taro.

The flooded Hanalei taro fields, facing southeast (above) and southwest (below)

Hanalei
In Hanalei, we stop by a local shopping center and peruse the joint for some local food. Eureka! We found an eatery serving breakfast, so I order up the local Hawaiian dish, loco moco. Like the plate lunch, this was Hawaiian cuisine reflecting Asian infusion. The version I was served had steamed rice, a hamburger patty with a fried egg on top and toast. If you have traveled in Asia, you'll understand the fried egg.

Na Pali Cliffs
After getting our fill, we head out and approach the Na Pali cliffs from the east end (after viewing them yesterday from the west end). Unfortunately, Locke's hip is giving out, so I trek on for about 1 hour out towards the cliffs. To get to the main part requires a full day hike, so I stop at a viewpoint that best captures the cliffs from land.

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Kauai to Maui
After spending a few days roaming around Kaua'i, it was time to say goodbye to Kaua'i and journey onward to Maui. Neither Locke nor I had been to Maui – nicknamed the Valley Isle – so this was new territory for the both of us. After the flight and the hour-long journey to our hotel, we arrive in the late afternoon to a festive atmosphere – it's Thanksgiving! We join in and enjoy a relaxed Thanksgiving dinner, Hawaiian style!

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