Waimea Canyon

In January we traveled to the island of Kauai, known as the Garden Island.

We last visited in 2001 - flying 6 weeks after September 11 - hitchhiking and hostelling to hike the Napali Coast trail. We saw more of the island this time.

The first think you notice about Kauai are the roosters. They are everywhere, and they crow. There are a number of theories about this. 

Not unique to Kauai, but a striking sight, are tornado sirens. 

The first night we wandered to a beach park at dusk. 

The next morning, we spent time on the lanai planning our first day's hike.

We drove to the central western side of Kauai to explore the Waimea Canyon. The views on the drive up to the top of the canyon were striking.

We set out to do the Awa Awa Pui Trail, which promised views of the Napali coast. Within a few feet of beginning the trail, we observed the first of many warnings for hikers.

The trail was lush.

Brian stopped to smell the wild ginger.

And we stopped to pay homage to the 2013 word of the year. 

The trail ended at the top of a ridge with great views of the ocean.  

If you look closely at the above picture, you can see one of the ubiquitous helicopter tours in progress.



A great hike! On the way back, we paused at various lookouts for incredible views of Waimea canyon.

We learned about the secret Hawai'ian Island - Nihau.

Not so secret anymore - you can see it on the horizon.