Page 11 Sunday 8/13/2023 - Kauai
Kauaʻi is geologically the second-oldest of the main Hawaiian Islands (after Niʻihau). With an area of 562.3 square miles (1,456.4 km2), it is the fourth-largest of the islands and the 21st-largest island in the United States. Nicknamed the Garden Isle, Kauaʻi lies 73 miles (117 km) across the Kauaʻi Channel, northwest of Oʻahu. It is the site of Waimea Canyon State Park and the Na Pali Coast State Park.
The United States Census Bureau defines Kauaʻi as census tracts 401 through 409 of Kauai County, Hawaiʻi, which comprises all of the county except the islands of Kaʻula, Lehua and Niʻihau. The 2020 United States census population of the island was 73,298. The most populous town is Kapaʻa.
We can see Kauai in the distance.
Mary spotted fish in the water this morning.
The Nawiliwili Harbour, near the town of Lihue, is where cruise ships dock on the island of Kauai – the Garden Island. The port is located only about 6 minutes driving distance (2.5 miles) from Lihue Airport, at the mouth of Hule'ia Stream.
The seas were calm and the temperature warm!
Kauai Harbor is fairly small!
Nawiliwili Harbor is located about 1.5 miles southeast of the small city of Lihue, along Kauai's southeast coast, and has been the main harbor on the island since 1930.
We had a tug assigned to us just in case!
The breakwater is made of concrete pilings.
Did You Know? - Nawiliwili Deep Draft Harbor Nawiliwili Deep Draft Harbor is located on the southeastern coast of the island of Kaua'i. The Nawiliwili Deep Draft Harbor was authorized by the Rivers and Harbors Acts of 1919 and 1954. The project's non-Federal sponsor is the State of Hawai'i Department of Transportation Harbors Division (DOT). The project is in the operations and maintenance phase.
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers completed the initial Federal improvement of Nawiliwili Deep Draft Harbor in 1930, followed by additional work completed in 1956 and 1960. The harbor consists of a 2,045-foot long breakwater (crest elevation of 10-16 feet), a 3,050-foot long and 40-foot deep entrance channel and a harbor basin 2,067-feet long, and 35-feet depth.
Nawiliwili Deep Draft Harbor is the island of Kaua'i's principal commercial harbor. According to the latest waterborne commerce statistics, 2.3 million short tons of cargo were shipped through Nawiliwili Harbor in 2007.
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is responsible for maintaining the breakwater structure and project depths in the entrance channel and turning basin and DOT is responsible for maintaining depths in berthing and mooring areas. Maintenance dredging was conducted in 2016 and 2019
We made it, it's a piece of cake from here!
We have arrived.
Sharing Songs and Legends of the Wailua River Valley is a Family Tradition. In 1946, Walter Smith, Sr. and his wife, Emily, started our family business with a small rowboat and a borrowed outboard motor. Four generations later, we continue Grandpa's tradition of sharing our love of Kauai and its rich cultural heritage.
During the two mile river journey, you'll hear songs and stories of ancient Hawaii — like the King's Highway, sacred Mount Kapu, and the First Hau Tree. In addition, guests enjoy learning the hula during a lesson provided by one of our cousins. Everyone gets into the act during the river cruise!
Smith's famous Wailua River cruise boats are powered by an ingenious rear-engine system invented by Walter Smith, Sr. The spacious, open-air boats provide excellent views from either side during the trip upstream.
The Wailua River is known as "the only navigable river" in all Hawaii. The river's fresh water pours down from Mt. Wai'ale'ale, one of the wettest spots on the planet. Lands along the river were the sacred capital of ancient Kauai and the birthplace of the island's ali'i, or royalty.
At the Fern Grotto landing, you'll enjoy a short nature walk through the rainforest to the lush Fern Grotto.
The Fern Grotto is a geological wonder of Kauai. Ferns grow upside down from the roof of the grotto, which was formed millions of years ago. Native Hawaiian plants and colorful exotic tropical plants provide a rain-forest atmosphere.
The flat-bottom boats held almost 100 people!
We gathered together before getting onbaoard.
We are off on a new adventure
Captain Cote at your service
"Who is the Old Guy??"
Up the river we go about two miles
The river flows all year around thanks to the 400 inches of rain at the top of the mountains.
The Wailuā River is a major river on the island of Kauaʻi in the U.S. state of Hawaii. 23.4 kilometres (14.5 mi) long, it is one of the largest rivers,[1] as well as Kauai's 5th longest river. It is formed by the confluence of its North and South forks just west of Wailua and enters the Pacific Ocean at 22°2′42″N 159°20′11″W. It is the only navigable river (by boats larger than kayaks) in the Hawaiian Islands. It is a center of activity for locals and visitors in the form of boat tours to Fern Grotto, kayaking and water skiing.
The North Fork begins at the Mount Waiʻaleʻale at coordinates 22°3′35″N 159°29′33″W and flows 12.2 miles (19.6 km) east to its junction with the South Fork. The South Fork forms at the junction of several streams southwest of Hanamaulu and flows 8.1 miles (13.0 km) east, over Wailua Falls, to its junction with the North Fork.
Other points of interest along the river system include a bird refuge, Kamokila Hawaiian Village, Secret Falls and a pool which formerly included a rope swing.
This much fun ought to be illegal!
Here we go!
I thought I saw the Gully wumper chased by a canoe, perhaps in my imagination. It that Tom Sawyer's Island?.
Once we got upstream a bit, we decided to get off and take a mile journey into the rain forest to see the Fern Grotto. It was quite an adventure trekking through the lush greenery and hearing the sounds of the wildlife around us.
When we finally arrived at the grotto, it was truly breathtaking. The ferns were so vibrant and lush, and the waterfall cascading down the rocks was a sight to behold. It was definitely worth the journey to experience such a serene and beautiful place.
We landed!
Definitely a rain forest!
Wailua river flows past the Wailua Complex of Heiau which was a gathering place for the island's chiefs. Pu'uhonua or places of refuge, are located near by as well, along with stones marking the births of new chiefs.
The ferns that the grotto is known for began growing during the plantation era. A basin for storm runoff was built right above the grotto, and water that leaked through encouraged the growth of maidenhair and Boston sword ferns.
Fern Grotto's decline began when it was hit by Hurricane Iwa in 1982. It was nearly destroyed by Hurricane Iniki in 1992. Most of the ferns hanging from the grotto were torn from the rocks and, though much of the plant life has rebounded, the grotto has had a difficult time recovering. In spite of the damage, it remains one of the most popular spots on the island.
On April 24, 2006, the grotto was closed by the Hawaii State Department of Land and Natural Resources for safety reasons. Heavy rains in March, 2006, caused a number of rocks and boulders to fall from the ceiling of the grotto onto the viewing area below.
It was re-opened in 2007 following reinforcement of the rock walls and installation of ramps to access to the grotto. Prior to the 2006 flooding, visitors were allowed to enter the grotto, but today the grotto may only be viewed from the designated observation deck.
We made it!
It must have been amazing in its heyday!
Just us.
Too bad we can't go inside but, safety first!
The walk was made enjoyable by the many wild flowers.
The wall is still recovering from the hurricane
We had entertainment.
Paul was paid $12.35 NOT to sing along qwith the entertainment!
Water everywhere!
Love those flowers
Even the little guys were brilliant!
On our way back!
Returning, we got a glimpse of the attached power plant; clever design
Coming into port
The sky was so clear today!
To the top of the canyon and the amazing waterfalls that feeds the river!
Just us!
The waterfalls come from the top of the mountain which gets over 400 inches of rainfall a year!
Kauai is mostly farmland
Beautiful farmland
Did You Know? - The mountains surround the rain forests, basically blocking them off. Because of this, about 97% of Kauai's land is undeveloped.
The farms produce several #1 crops in the US
- #4. Avocados. – 2020 production: $1.2 million. - Top states: California
- #3. Papayas. – 2020 production: $3.1 million. – Top states: — #1.)
- #2. Coffee. – 2020 production: $48.4 million. – Top states: — #1.
- #1. Macadamias. – 2020 production: $49.0 million. – Top states: — #1
It's a bit fuzzy as we were moving quickly down the highway!
The Palm Trees are used the break the wind?
Paul breaks wind without the need of trees!
We were driven to a private beach located near our driver's house. The moment we set eyes on the ocean, we were taken aback by its breathtaking view. It was like looking at a postcard brought to life!
We spent our day admiring the beauty of the sea while enjoying a lovely picnic of turkey sandwiches and soft drinks. The atmosphere was so peaceful and relaxing, it was the perfect way to unwind.
A rock solid marker
Did You Know? - Anahola Beach, located on the northeast coast of Kauai, Hawaii, is a hidden gem that offers a pristine and tranquil escape. This beautiful stretch of golden sand and crystal-clear turquoise waters is a haven for beach lovers and nature enthusiasts alike.
As you step onto Anahola Beach, you'll be greeted by a sense of serenity and natural beauty. The beach is framed by lush green hills and swaying palm trees, creating a picturesque backdrop that is genuinely postcard-worthy.
The calm and inviting waters of Anahola Beach are good for swimming and snorkeling. Its gentle waves and relatively shallow depths make it an ideal spot for families and novice swimmers. The reef formations just offshore also make it a great place to explore the underwater world, teeming with vibrant marine life.
Anahola Beach is known for its unspoiled and uncrowded atmosphere. Away from the hustle and bustle of more popular tourist destinations, it offers a peaceful retreat where you can relax, soak up the sun, and listen to the soothing sound of the ocean waves.
The beach has picnic tables, barbecue grills, and restroom facilities, making it an excellent spot for a leisurely beachside picnic or gathering with friends and family. You can also find ample parking nearby, ensuring convenient access to this hidden paradise.
While visiting Anahola Beach, respecting the natural surroundings and following local guidelines for beach safety are essential. The beach is often less crowded than other famous beaches on the island, allowing you to enjoy a more intimate and secluded experience.
Whether you're seeking a quiet spot to unwind, enjoy water activities, or simply bask in the natural beauty of Kauai, Anahola Beach offers a tranquil oasis that will leave you feeling refreshed and rejuvenated. It's a place where you can truly connect with nature and appreciate the unspoiled beauty of Hawaii's coastline.
The Anahola Beach Park on the south side of the bay is manned by a County of Kauai lifeguard and offers good shade, a sandy beach, camping facilities, and fun for all ages. This beach is popular amongst the locals and is crowded on the weekends, with families picnicking and enjoying the beach.
The North end of the bay at the mouth of the Anahola River is another great beach for shelling, fishing from shore, and photo opportunities. Use caution near the river mouth for strong currents. Unfortunately, there are No lifeguard stations at the river-mouth end of the bay.
It did look like a post card!
And more so without people!
A walk on the beach was required.
Our guide was also an entertainer!
We water was warm-but all I had to wear was my Speedos!
We were guarded!
We are happy we speak Hawaiian!
One more shot of the beach!
During the tour, we had a quick stop at the shopping center, but unfortunately, we couldn't find anything that we needed. We browsed through the stores, but nothing caught our attention. Despite that, it was still a nice break from the sightseeing and gave us a chance to stretch our legs.
The houses were on stilts close to the rivers because of potential flooding.
My little Hula-Girl!
(In my next life Paul wants to be a clam shell!)
The homes were quite pretty!
Phooey, road signs to kill the scenery!
Do you see a "sleeping gorilla?"
We were close to the ship when we returned.
Sliding out of the harbor was easy!
The brown water is due to the props stirring up the bottom muds
We found a lounge for a drinkl.... or two!
Mary is always so cooperative!
A waltz around the promenade!
We headed outbound at 5:00 pm!
The harbor was smooth sailing!
Sailing past the breakwater!
We waved bye-bye!
Up we go to the 14th floor!
The menu was again terrific; Princess does a bang up job and to think some people prefer the "grazing grounds" known as the buffet.
Heating up the Brandy for the Cherries Jubilee
I was reminded that after dinner I had another acupuncture appointment at 6:30 pm. It is working well and I have not used the cane for almost a week!
I was afraid they would let all the hot air out!
She sleeps while I am in pain!
