Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
(
826-1844;
www.napaligallery.com
; 5-7132 Kuhio Hwy, Hanalei Colony Resort; 7am-5pm Mon-
Sat & 7am-3pm Sun;
) Order a latte or Kona coffee and peruse an assortment of local
artists' paintings, jewelry (coveted Niʻihau sunrise shell necklaces) and larimar (priced
from $20 to $2000).
WHEN IN DOUBT, DON'T GO OUT
The waters in Hawaii are as powerful as anywhere on the planet and can catch
many a toe-dipper off guard in the blink of an eye. Strong undertows have the cap-
ability of sweeping even the most experienced mer-men off their feet and out to
sea in a matter of seconds. Swimming with others and where lifeguards are
present is always the safest way to go. Made evident by the knife-etched tally be-
fore the descent, Hanakapiʻai Beach (
Click here
) has ended many a vacation - and
life - too soon (over 30 in the last 40 years). Heed the warning.
TOP OF CHAPTER
Haʻena State Park
Wind-beaten Haʻena State Park is sculpted into the narrow lava-rich coastline and burns
with the allure, mystique and beauty usually associated with some divine tale. Pele (the
goddess of lightning and fire) is said to have chosen the area as a home because of the
water percolating through its wet and dry caves. The 230-acre park remains home to the
1280ft cliff commonly known in the tourism industry as ʻBali Hai,' its name in the film
South Pacific
. Its real name is Makana, which means 'gift.' Rather apt, for sure.
Sights
Keʻe Beach
BEACH
Perhaps the most memorable North Shore sunsets happen at this spiritual place, where
the first Hawaiians came to practice hula. It offers a refreshing dip after hiking the
Kalalau Trail into the
Na Pali Coast State Park
in summer months. Be aware that Keʻe
Beach has appeared calm to unsuspecting swimmers when it is, in fact, otherwise. Vi-
cious currents have sucked some through a keyhole in its reef and out into the open sea.
Summer brings car break-ins in the parking lot, so leave cars (especially those that are
obviously rentals) free from visible valuables. There are showers and restrooms.
