A Weekend in Kauai, Explore and Unwind-Part 2

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Though your initial instinct may be to fit as much as possible into your first day, and night, on the island, we recommend taking it easy to start out.  Having enjoyed a relaxing and fun filled day at the beach, wonderful food and sunset views for dinner, and a community gathering in Hanapepe Town, Friday night is the perfect time to enjoy your rental home.  Gather with your group on the lanai for a nightcap in the fresh island air and catch up on the important events in each other’s lives, or cuddle up with your partner for a romantic evening in your well-appointed master suite.

Saturday morning should be an early start, as your internal clock is probably still set at least a few hours ahead of local time.  This will also allow you to squeeze in as much adventure as possible into your brief stay on Kauai.  Enjoy an early morning home style breakfast in Lihue, at Dani’s Restaurant.  This is the perfect place to start your day like a true local, before heading over to The Kayak Shack at Nawiliwili Small Boat Harbor, for the 8AM check-in, for your Kipu Falls Zipline Trek with Outfitters Kauai .

This action packed tour begins with “a leisurely two mile kayak on the Hule’ia River,” giving you the chance to soak up the sights and sounds of Kauai’s natural stage.  Along with the fun of kayaking, you can hike from the edge of the river to swimming holes and waterfalls.  There is even a rope-swing to launch you into a fresh-water pool.  See Kipu Ranch, featured in the films Jurassic Park and Raiders of the Lost Ark, while you ride on the farm wagon.  With a picnic lunch provided as part of your tour, you will be ready to fly through the trees on multiple ziplines, including the unique Waterzip Zipline.  You will be able to relax and take in your exotic surroundings, on the ride back to the dock, on the motorized canoe.

On your way back to your rental home, stop by one of Kauai’s many sunshine markets, for a selection of fresh local fare and tropical flowers.  Make the most of your rental home’s outdoor BBQ or luxurious kitchen by cooking a romantic meal for two or having a Hawaiian feast for your whole party.  We have included a couple of web sites at the end of this article, where you can find some mouth-watering Hawaiian recipes.

If you feel like going out for drinks after dinner, Tahiti Nui is the place to be.  Live music will make you feel right at home in this local hot spot.  Here you will find a good time, great drinks and food, and a wonderful ambiance, which is geared more towards a welcoming local feel than an overproduced tourist affair.  While you’re here, be sure to try a Mai Tai, which Tahiti Nui is known for.  You may also want to get a bite to eat, as the drinks are strong!

Start your Sunday morning by heading over to Hanalei Coffee Roasters, in the Hanalei Center, for some island fresh morning brews, of coffee or tea, that is, from The Hanalei Tea Company.  Fuel your day with a hearty breakfast or a fresh fruit smoothie made with quality local ingredients and served quickly, with a friendly smile.

Unwind on your last island day by visiting a spa for relaxation and rejuvenation.  After exploring the island, you will want a way to relax and to replenish your energy for your trip home.  While there are many wonderful spas around the island that can help you to center yourself, we recommend Princeville Health Club & Spa at the St. Regis Resort Princeville.  The value of the treatments offered here comes through in lower prices, longer treatment times, and exceptionally high quality treatments.  The spa offers resort amenities, including a lap pool, whirlpool, steam room and more, even babysitting services.  Get a massage or body wrap, to truly relax and prepare you for the flight home.  You can even get your hair and nail done, to return home with a signature island style.

Recipes:

http://www.foodland.com/recipe-categories/local-favorites

http://www.tastingkauai.com/recipes/

Restaurants & Bars:

http://www.the-beach-house.com/reservations.html

Dani’s Restaurant: 4201 Rice St Lihue, HI 96766 (808) 245-4991

http://thenui.com/

http://www.hanaleicoffeeandteacompany.com/

Adventures:

http://www.outfitterskauai.com/kipu-zipline-safari.php

Spa:

http://www.stregisprinceville.com/spa/reservation