Kauai Articles
Winter Visitors
by Na Pali Riders’ Captain Chris Turner
Most winter visitors to the islands of Kauai in Hawaii do not expect to experience an up-close experience with a Humpback Whale. Most simply envision sitting under a pristine, coconut-tree lined beach, possibly drinking a delicious mai tai – with the ever-present small umbrella of course. For those who are on a honeymoon, perhaps envisioning a hiking adventure to a secluded romantic waterfall is in their thoughts. While these and other wonderful experiences are all part of a Hawaiian vacation, getting the opportunity to encounter a Humpback Whale, well, this would bring their vacation experience to a whole other level. Once enjoyed, I feel that they would be “hooked,” or maybe “whale-watching addicted”. This is an addiction for which there is no cure!
Sea Cave Review
by Na Pali Riders’ Captain Chris Turner
As the boat Captain I know what is on the tip of my customer’s tongues. Will we be able to get into the sea caves? Honestly?” I reply that it is never a guarantee; every day the ocean conditions can change. We will go in as long as we can come out. To keep the wind in their sails, I humor them. “Napali has a mind of her own, like my wife,” I reply. I understand, because I love the caves too.
Pure Unpredictable Excitement
by Na Pali Riders’ Captain Chris Turner
The full great measure of a humpback whale moment! The memory of it will make your Hawaiian winter vacation a standout – a pinnacle among all your vacations. We’re talking about the humpback breaching show, perhaps the most awesome on the planet. What’s the big deal? It’s about 50 tons of whale catapulting from the water, the power of it all, like as the space shuttle lifts off from its launchpad!
Discover Kauai
Photos and text by Lois Whitney Bisquera
Don’t be fooled— there is much more to see and do here than one might imagine upon arrival at Lihue’s sleepy airport. From the trailhead of an oceanfront bikepath to an end-of- the-road scenic lookout into the tropical grandeur of Kalalau Valley, Kaua‘i offers an endless supply of natural beauty and adventure just waiting to be discovered.
Kauai’s Gentle Giants
By Captain Chris Turner Photos by Erik Van Embden
Without a doubt, experiencing a great whale watch is like getting the complete package. If Hawaii’s whales were performing for X-Factor, they’d be scoring a perfect “10.”
Sightseeing The North Shore
By Joan Conrow
Before exploring Kauai’s North Shore, be sure you’ve got lots of time. You’ll want plenty to fully experience the spectacular scenery that characterizes this region.
Adventures In Paradise
By Lois Whitney Bisquera Photos by Lois and Kayla Bisquera
The rhythmic splash of our paddles in the water reassured me that after a few minutes of instruction from our attentive kayak guide, we were ready to take on The River.