Hanamaulu, Kauai, Hawaii: Kauai Backcountry Tubing Adventure; things to do

Kauai Backcountry Tubing Adventure  

$106; watershoe rental, $3. 

On this soft adventure, participants tube through the ditches, tunnels, and flumes that once irrigated a sugar cane plantation.  Locals call it "flumin' da ditch."  Transportation to the ditches is via a 1972 six-wheel yellow Swiss Army vehicle made in Austria.  The 45-minute journey takes you through wide-open cow country dotted with herons.  There is no whitewater or paddling here.  Just a gentle 2 ½-mile float along some abandoned irrigation pipes.  Most of the float trip is in the dark, through five narrow hand-dug tunnels.  Our young guide said playfully, “We are not allowed to initiate, but we are allowed to retaliate.  Splash once, we splash back.  Twice, and we might flip you over.”  

relaxing on the Kauai Backcountry Tubing Adventure

exiting the water on the Kauai Backcountry Tubing Adventure

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images ©2016 Carole Terwilliger Meyers

Poipu, Kauai, Hawaii: Josselin’s Tapas Bar & Grill (CLOSED); restaurant review

Josselin’s Tapas Bar & Grill  

CLOSED  2829 Ala Kalanikaumaka St., in Kukuiula Village Shopping Center, Poipu, (808) 742-7117.  Reservations advised.  $$$.

interior of Josselin's Tapas Bar & Grill in Poipu, Kauai, Hawaii

Popular with locals--always a good sign--this spot features a tasteful contemporary decor with plenty of comfy booths.  High windows with a view of tree tops makes it feel like you’re in a tree house.  Service is both polite and prompt.  Service is both polite and prompt.  A good way to start is with a fresh-fruit selection from the sangria cart, which is wheeled around to each table.  Lychee sangria is probably the most popular and always available, but usually there is also another flavor option.  And don’t overlook the made-from-scratch house drinks, which include Plantation Porch Tea and a Classic Mango Daiquiri.  Menu items are all tapas size and meant to be shared.  Two plates per person is plenty.  Everyone’s favorites seem to be the 36-hour braised pork belly and the beautiful raw tempura ahi roll, but I also really liked the  roasted cauliflower with tumeric and the rock shrimp tempura with avocado and kim chee ranch dressing.  Items for vegans are available.

36-hour braised pork belly at Josselin's Tapas Bar & Grill in Poipu, Kauai, Hawaii

raw tempura ahi roll at Josselin's Tapas Bar & Grill in Poipu, Kauai, Hawaii

roasted cauliflower with tumeric at Josselin's Tapas Bar & Grill
in Poipu, Kauai, Hawaii

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images ©2014 Carole Terwilliger Meyers

Lihue, Kauai, Hawaii: Borrow a dog from the Kauai Humane Society; things to do

Borrow a dog from the Kauai Human Society

Kauai Humane Society  

3-825 Kaumualii Hwy, Lihue, (808) 632.0610.  This animal shelter has a fabulous “Field Trip” program for dog-loving tourists.  You can check out a shelter dog for a day trip!  There is no charge for this, and you will be given a goodie bag for the pooch that includes an "adopt me" vest, towels for the car, and treats.  It’s win-win for you and the dog—you get an enthusiastic companion for the day and the dog gets out of the kennel for exercise and fresh air.  And should you fall in love with your new buddy, the shelter will help you adopt and bring it back to the mainland.

dog borrowed from the Kauai Humane Society in Lihue, Kauai, Hawaii

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Hanalei, Kauai, Hawaii: Historic Rice Mill & Taro Farm Tour; things to do + restaurant review

Historic Rice Mill & Taro Farm Tour  

(808) 651-3399.  By reservation. 

The tour at the Historic Rice Mill & Taro Farm in Hanalei begins with a lucious little smoothie and a short bus ride to visit the taro fields, where you’ll learn how one dedicated family has worked the fields of this family farm for five generations.





Additionally, you’ll have the opportunity, if you like, to take in the beautiful jagged-mountain backdrop scenery of the Hanalei Valley and to participate in some hands-on activities among the heart-shaped taro leaves.  Farm work here is still done by hand.  Five endangered bird species are often spotted in this official wildlife refuge, coexisting with the taro farmers.  Birdwatchers are invited to bring their list and binoculars, and the guide will assist, and those with limited mobility will have plenty of opportunities to sit.  I was surprised to find how challenging this work is and about the many hardships and difficulties the farmers face. 

Later, the bus delivers you to the Hoopulapula Haraguchi Rice Mill--an agrarian museum listed on the National Register of Historic Places.  Built by Chinese laborers in the late 1800s, the mill was purchased by the Haraguchi family in 1924 and is the only remaining rice mill in Hawaii.  It was rebuilt several times through theyears and ceased operating in 1960, when Kauai’s rice industry collapsed.  A nonprofit organization now preserves this historic site.  While here, you will view a short educational slide show, followed by a tour of the mill.  Finally, you’ll see a poi-pounding demonstration and a coconut husking, and you’ll taste these delicious fresh foods.

plate lunch at Hanalei Taro & Juice Co. food truck in Kauai, Hawaii

The bus then returns to the Hanalei Taro & Juice Co. food truck for lunch—a sandwich or plate lunch--which is included.  This enterprise makes taro products found nowhere else:  taro-coconut mochi, taro hummus, luau rolls, and kalo koolers (taro smoothies). 



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images ©2014 Carole Terwilliger Meyers

Hanalei, Kauai, Hawaii: Hanalei Center shops; things to do

Hanalei Center shops

(at 5-5161 Kuhio Hwy.).  You'll find art galleries, restaurants, and shops, most of which are locally owned and sell Hawaiian items.

The Old Hanalei School Building dating to 1926 has been converted into a small shopping strip within the

Old Hanalei School Building in Hanalei, Kauai, Hawaii

●Havaiki Oceanic and Tribal Art  

4884 Pepelani Loop, (808) 826-7606.  Named after the legendary homeland of all Polynesians, this shop stocks the work of artisans and carvers throughout Oceania. 

Havaiki Oceanic and Tribal Art shop in Hanalei, Kauai, Hawaii

 ●Hula Beach Boutique & Sarong Shop  

(808) 826-4741.  Daily 9:30am-8pm.  Casual island wear. 

●Rainbow Ducks Toys & Clothing  

(808) 826-4741.  You’ll find toys and swimwear for children in this little red house.  They stock everything from a zippered coconut purse, to bean bag collectibles, to a rubber gecko. 

Rainbow Ducks Toys & Clothing shop in Hanalei, Kauai, Hawaii

●Sand People  

(808) 826-1008.  M-Sat 9:30am-8pm, Sun 10-8.  Great gift items are augmented by beachy house accents and nautical décor.

●Tropical Tantrum  

5183 Kuhio Hwy., (808) 826-6944.  The clerk claims that everything in this store is all rayon and hand-colored.  Long dresses and aloha shirts are among the goods. 

●Yellowfish Trading Company  

(808) 826-1227.  Protected by a guard cat, this unique shop sells 1940s and 1950s memorabilia as well as antiques and home furnishings.

Yellowfish Trading Company shop in Hanalei, Kauai, Hawaii

down the road

●Hanalei Trading Co.  

5-5134 Kuhio Hwy., (808) 826-1373.  Located in the historic Tahiti Nui Building, this shop’s diverse collection includes aloha wear, hand-carved wood sculptures, black pearls, and plenty more.



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images ©2014 Carole Terwilliger Meyers

Introduction to Hanalei town in Kauai, Hawaii

Hanalei Valley Lookout in Kauai, Hawaii

Before arriving here, stop at the scenic Hanalei Valley Lookout to admire the lushly pastoral landscape of the Hanalei Valley--home to the legendary magical, musical dragon Puff.  Continue on, driving the winding road that is very much like the famous Road to Hana on Maui, with many one-lane bridges.

house on stilts in Hanalei, Kauai, Hawaii

Just before the end of the road, you’ll see houses on stilts and the Dry Cave (described by one unimpressed kid as “just a big dry cave”) and the Wet Cave (which contains a lake).

Kee Beach in Kauai, Hawaii

At the end of the road is Kee Beach, where a reef-protected lagoon makes this the island’s best beach for swimming, but be aware that strong currents and dangerous waves break out on the rocks.  Scenes from the TV mini-series Thorn Birds and the movies South Pacific and Lord of the Flies were filmed here, and the sunsets can be magnificent.  Bring a picnic lunch or dinner. 

The end of the road is also the beginning of the spectacularly scenic and green Na Pali Coast and the infamous 11-mile-long Kalalau Trail that is popular with back-packers. 


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images ©2014 Carole Terwilliger Meyers

Kilauea, Kauai, Hawaii: The Garden Cafe at Common Ground (CLOSED); restaurant review

The Garden Cafe at Common Ground  

CLOSED  4900 Kuawa Rd., Kilauea, (808) 828-1041.  Located on the grounds of the old Guava Kai plantation, this organic farm now provides its cafe with fresh produce and as well serves beef and lamb from named ranches.  Prices are high at The Garden Cafe at Common Ground, but so is quality.  It is especially nice to enjoy brunch or lunch on the serene outdoor patio.

sandwich wrap at The Garden Cafe at Common Ground in Kilauea, Kauai, Hawaii

I am fond of the sandwich wraps and the Vanilla Thrilla smoothie consisting of coconut milk, pineapple, bananas, mac nuts, dates, vanilla bean, hemp protein powder, and oat milk.  Yum!

The Garden Cafe at Common Ground in Kilauea, Kauai, Hawaii

Order at the counter, find a table, and you’ll be called when your prepared-to-order food is ready.  Many items are vegan, vegetarian, and/or gluten-free.

gardens at The Garden Cafe at Common Ground in Kilauea, Kauai, Hawaii

Before or after, you can take a hike out to the old stone dam or stroll past fields and along the river.



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images ©2014 Carole Terwilliger Meyers

Lihue, Kauai, Hawaii: Duke’s Kauai; restaurant review

Duke’s Kauai

At the Kaua’ Marriott Resort & Beach Club, 3610 Rice St., at Kalapaki Beach, (808) 246-9599.

Duke's Kauai is famous for its fresh fish

fresh fish plate at Duke's Kauai, in Lihue, Kauai, Hawaii

  

and expansive salad bar (the potato salad is really good), this always-bustling restaurant features a 30-foot waterfall that splashes into a koi pond

salad bar plate at Duke's Kauai, in Lihue, Kauai, Hawaii

and it displays a 40-foot outrigger canoe and three of surfing legend Duke Kahanamoku’s surfboards.  The menu is not extensive but manages to squeeze on coconut shrimp with spicy ilikoi dip, a cheddar burger, and mango barbecued baby back ribs.

outrigger canoe at Duke's Kauai, in Lihue, Kauai, Hawaii

Described as “what the sailors swam to shore for in Lahaina” (on Maui), Kimo’s Original Hula Pie is rich and delish.

Kimo's Original Hula Pie at Duke's Kauai, in Lihue, Kauai, Hawaii

And you won't want to miss the mai tai.

mai tai at Duke's Kauai, in Lihue, Kauai, Hawaii

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images ©2014 Carole Terwilliger Meyers

Haena, Kauai, Hawaii: Hanalei Colony Resort + Mediterranean Gourmet Restaurant; hotel review + restaurant review

Hanalei Colony Resort  

5-7130 Kuhio Hwy., 5 mi. west of Hanalei, in Haena, (800) 628-3004, (808) 826-6235.  48 condos.  Pool, hot tub.  Free parking.  No resort fee. 

Located on beautiful Kepuhi Beach in secluded Haena, Kauai’s northernmost town, the Hanalei Colony Resort is unspoiled and unplugged.  It features a restful atmosphere, with units blessedly free of  televisions and telephones.  Guests can unwind and relax and enjoy the area’s natural beauty, including hanging out at the beach and watching sunsets.  Jet-lagged, I also watched a gorgeous sunrise.  The resort is made up of thirteen rustic two-story buildings, each with four units.  All are attractively decorated island style and get twice-weekly maid service.

guest room at Hanalei Colony Resort in Haena, Kauai, Hawaii

They have two bedrooms, two bathrooms, a living room and dining area, a private lanai, and a fully equipped kitchen.  The best rooms are on the point with an ocean view.  Barbecue/picnic areas and a coin-operated guest laundromat are available.

flowers in guest room at Hanalei Colony Resort in Haena, Kauai, Hawaii

Guests staying two-plus nights are greeted by a  gift of fresh flowers, locally-made cookies, a recyclable shopping bag, and a deck of playing cards, and all guests are invited to a complimentary continental breakfast and an afternoon mai tai party once each week.  Free in-room WiFi is provided, but I tried to stay unplugged and not use it.  Personal concierge service assists in arranging dining, activities, and special requests.  Beach mats and towels, books, toys, puzzles, and games are available for loan.  In summer, a variety of cultural and craft activities are scheduled for both children and adults.  For a small fee, “Keiki Kamp” is offered several days and evenings each week, and babysitting can be arranged.  From morning until sunset daily, a free shuttle van transports guests to and from safe nearby beaches and to and from Hanalei Town.  Evening shuttle service is available at $10/unit and goes to and from Hanalei Town, Princeville Shopping Center, and the Westin and St. Regis resorts in Princeville Resort.  This resort is at the top of my list for a return visit.

view from Hanalei Colony Resort in Haena, Kauai, Hawaii

Currently, a special fall rate of $240 per night for an Ocean View suite is available for stays through November 23.  The rate represents a 1/3 discount off the usual Ocean View rate of $356 per night.  This special is applicable to Ocean View category suites only and requires a two-night minimum stay.  In addition, a seventh night is offered free after six consecutive paid nights.

●Mediterranean Gourmet Restaurant  

(808) 826-9875.  L-D daily; happy hour daily 4-6pm; live entertainment 5 nights/week; luau Tu 6-8:15pm, reservations required.  Of Lebanese ancestry, Mediterranean Gourmet Restaurant owner Imad Beydoun was born and raised in Beirut.  He moved here with his family in 2005.  His surprising restaurant features both traditional Mediterranean dishes and island cuisine, so you can enjoy fresh fish with a Mediterranean twist.

Greek salad at Mediterranean Gourment Restaurant at Hanalei Colony Resort
in Haena, Kauai, Hawaii

While others in my group opted for heavier fish and meat plates, I enjoyed a lighter dinner featuring a Greek salad and a plate of hummus and babaganush with housemade pita.  More exotic items include grilled kafta, stuffed grape leaves, hand-rolled fatayer, gyro and falafel wraps, garlic chicken, and various kabobs, but the menu also offers quesadillas, Caesar salad, rack of lamb, and New York strip steak.  Desserts include cheesecake, housemade baklava, and Turkish coffee or French-press teas.

Blue Crush coctail at Mediterranean Gourment Restaurant
at Hanalei Colony Resort in Haena, Kauai, Hawaii

The restaurant has an ocean view from every table and a full bar--don’t miss the colorful and tasty Blue Crush cocktail made with silver rum, pineapple juice, and blue Curacao. 
          The beachfront family-style luau features a buffet dinner of traditional Hawaiian food, hula dancing, and Hawaiian music. 

●Hanalei Day Spa  

(808) 826-6621.  Located adjacent to the resort, this independent business offers a variety of therapeutic massages, spa services, rejuvenation programs, and customized yoga and Ayurvedic retreats.

●Napali Art Gallery & Coffee Shop  

(808) 826-1844.  Daily 7am-5pm.  This cozy spot offers morning coffee, espresso, and pastries as well as mid-day snacks to go.



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images ©2014 Carole Terwilliger Meyers

Kilauea, Kauai, Hawaii: Na Aina Kai Botanical Gardens, Sculpture Park & Hardwood Plantation; things to do

Na Aina Kai Botanical Gardens, Sculpture Park & Hardwood Plantation 

4101 Wailapa Rd., Kilauea, (808) 828-0525.  Tu-F.  Guided tours $35+; special family tour, under 13 $20.  Reservations advised.

Lagoon at Na Aina Kai Botanical Gardens in Kilauea, Kauai, Hawaii

Rambling over 240 acres, the beautifully scenic, well-groomed gardens of Na Aina Kai Botanical Gardens, Sculpture Park & Hardwood Plantation are reached by a back road through an upscale residential area.  Formerly owned by Joyce and Ed Doty, who designed and developed them, the gardens are now operated by a non-profit foundation and continue to evolve.  All tours are guided, and some include a tram ride.

Tea for Two sculpture at Na Aina Kai Botanical Gardens in Kilauea, Kauai, Hawaii

About 70 whimsical bronze sculptures are strategically placed throughout--many with punny names and humorous stories—and, amazingly, everything was planted here from seed.

jackfruit at Na Aina Kai Botanical Gardens in Kilauea, Kauai, Hawaii

blue jade at Na Aina Kai Botanical Gardens in Kilauea, Kauai, Hawaii

You’ll see exotic fruits, colorful orchids, tropical hardwood forests (including teak, which they said couldn’t grow here, but which Joyce Doty did grow using a recipe she found in an old seed catalogue), waterfalls, a hedge maze, large grassy expanses, a koi-filled lagoon with spouting fountains, a finely appointed tea house, and black lava rock fences.

The Children’s Garden holds holds plants kids enjoy and includes water features, a large treehouse in an even larger rubber tree, and a gecko-shaped maze.

If you’re lucky, as I was, you’ll see fluffy baby Laysan albatross in a restricted nesting area adjacent to the garden.  Consider taking a morning tour or risk sweltering in the heat of the day.

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images ©2014 Carole Terwilliger Meyers

Kapaa, Kauai, Hawaii: Smith's Tropical Paradise Garden Luau + Fern Grotto Wailua River Cruise; restaurant review + things to do

Smith's Tropical Paradise Garden Luau  

174 Wailua Rd., in Wailua Marina State Park, in Kapaa, (808) 821-6895.  Reservations required. 

Reputedly the island’s best luau, Smith's Tropical Paradise Garden Luau begins at 5 p.m. with an informative tram ride through lush tropical gardens.  A traditional imu ceremony, in which a roasted pig is removed from its undergound lava rock oven, occurs at 6 p.m., followed by mai tais and punch and an all-you-can-eat dinner buffet with all the traditional goodies.

dinner plate at Smith's Tropical Paradise Garden Luau in Kapaa, Kauai, Hawaii

Salads, that infamous poi (here’s your chance to try it, and it’s not so bad—just sort of bland), Jell-O, fried rice, lomi salmon, fresh fruits, kalua pig, teriyaki beef, adobo chicken, sweet & sour mahi mahi, snowflake and sweet potatoes, hot vegetables, haupia, coconut cake, and rice pudding comprise the menu, which is definitely kid-friendly.

dinner at Smith's Tropical Paradise Garden Luau in Kapaa, Kauai, Hawaii

Dinner is accompanied by singing and dancing, with the pageant show starting in a separate arena at 8 p.m.

show at Smith's Tropical Paradise Garden Luau in Kapaa, Kauai, Hawaii

After the torches are lit, Madame Pele makes a fiery entrance that is followed by colorful dances and songs from throughout the South Pacific and Hawaii.  What’s not to like here?

river at Smith's Tropical Paradise in Kapaa, Kauai, Hawaii

●Fern Grotto Wailua River Cruise  

Smith's Motor Boat Service, 174 Wailua Rd., in Wailua Marina State Park, in Kapaa, (808) 821-6892. 

On grounds that were once owned by Hawaiian royalty and accessible only by river boats that leave every 30 minutes, this lava grotto and waterfall makes a lovely destination.  It is a natural amphitheater with impressive acoustics, and it is a popular spot for weddings.  The large flat-bottomed, open-air, canopy-covered tour boats share the water with kayakers on what is the only navigable river in Hawaii.  Everyone, including kids, is entertained en route up the narrow, calm river with historical stories, singing, and hula lessons.  Trips last about 1½ hours and give kids the chance to let off some steam during a walk from the landing up to the grotto.



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Poipu, Kauai, Hawaii: Kiahuna Plantation and The Beach Bungalows; hotel review

Kiahuna Plantation and The Beach Bungalows  

2253 Poipu Rd., Poipu, (800) 367-5004, (808) 742-2200.  333 units.

Kiahuna Plantation in Poipu, Kauai, Hawaii

Situated on 35 acres of beautifully maintained gardens punctuated with great expanses of green lawn, the Kiahuna Plantation and The Beach Bungalows  condominium resort fronting Poipu Beach is spread over what was once part of Hawaii’s oldest sugar plantation and is now the largest condo resort on the island.  The two- and three-story plantation-style buildings each hold six to eight individually owned units, which are furnished in wicker and dark wood and cooled by overhead fans.  Some, of course, are closer to the ocean than others, but all are within convenient walking distance.  All have a full kitchen, laundry facilities, a TV, and a large private lanai.  This property is a good choice for families with young children, especially the units that are set back from the beach and open onto an expanse of grass.  I love the early morning birdsong.

My unit attracted an assortment of birds--doves, common mynahs, and "red-headed bluejays," as one of my children called the birds that looked just like that.  The beach itself is reputedly one of Hawaii’s best, with a gentle surf that is welcoming of children, and great snorkeling is within easy walking distance. The resort's many facilities include a beach hut with free use of chairs and towels. Boogie boards and scuba gear can be rented, and surfing lessons are available.  Well-maintained, free tennis courts and a pool are situated a bit of a trek from the condos.

Plantation Gardens restaurant at Kiahuna Plantation in Poipu, Kauai, Hawaii

Plantation Gardens restaurant 

and bar is located inside the historic Moir House.  It serves dinner  only, and reservations are advised.

Moir Cacti Gardens at Kiahuna Plantation in Poipu, Kauai, Hawaii

Guests and non-guests alike can take a free self-guided tour of the resort’s unusual, very old Moir Cacti Gardens.  It is rough around the edges and in need of some tender loving care, but still a delight to walk through.

orchid garden at Kiahuna Plantation in Poipu, Kauai, Hawaii

A colorful orchid garden located just outside the restaurant is also a pleasure to visit.



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Kauai, Hawaii: Take this Local Grinz self-guided foodie tour

Take this Local Grinz self-guided foodie tour

One of the best ways to experience the Hawaiian culture is through food. You can eat your way through through the island, sampling mom-and-pop restaurants, taking part in agricultural tours, and visiting farmers’ markets. Try local favorites such as poi, ahi poke, lau lau, and shave ice. I took this self-guided tour that hits highlights of the south shore with a native Hawaiian.

prepared Japanese food at Kuluiula Market in Koloa, Kauai, Hawaii

●Kukuiula Market 

2827 Poipu Rd., Koloa, (808) 742-1601. This simple grocery store looks like it has been here forever. Stock up here on condo cooking supplies, including plenty of Hawaiian favorites--fresh fish, organic produce, Hawaiian Sun canned fruit drinks, and bento boxes and prepared Japanese food such as Spam musubi (a rice roll stuffed with Hawaii’s favorite meat).

Aloha 'Aina Juice Bar at Kuluiula Market in Koloa, Kauai, Hawaii

In the back of the store, the tiny Aloha ‘Aina Juice Bar dishes up popular breakfast acai bowls. The “B.I.A.” includes acai, strawberry, kale, apple juice, coconut flakes, and bee pollen, and is topped with bananas, homemade granola, and honey. Delish. All this and Regae music, too, but only a few seats. Smoothies, fresh juices, and gluten-free items are also available.

●Taro Ko Chips Factory  

3940 Hanapepe Rd., Hanapepe, (808) 335-5588. The proprietor says it is an all-day job to make a bag of taro or potato chips at his tiny operation inside a coverted home. The price seems a bit steep at $4.99 per bag, but the chips are so delicious you’ll want to buy several. My favorite is the potato chips flavored with li hing mui--a delicious plum licorice taste--but I also like the pretty deep-purple sweet potato chips with the same flavoring. I wish I had bought a whole case and had them shipped home.

lilikoi chiffon pie at Wong's Omoide Bakery in Hanapepe, Kauai, Hawaii

●Wong’s Chinese Restaurant & Omoide Bakery  

13543 Kaumualii Hwy., Hanapepe, (808) 335-5066; www.wongsomoide.com. Tu-Sun 8am-9pm. Come here for what many consider to be Kauai’s best lilikoi (passion fruit) chiffon pie. I also loved a square cream-puffy item. A cafeteria-style plate lunch is available in a small and informal bakery cafe, while dinner is served in a large open dining room. Wong's is also known for its Hot Bitch Sauce--a housemade vinegary hot sauce with a kick—which is on each table and also bottled to go.

●Jo Jo's Anuenue Shave Ice & Treats   

9899 Waimea Rd., Waimea. Daily 11am-5:30pm. A favorite here is the #4 featuring macadamia nut ice cream topped with guava and passion fruit shave ice. And it would be hard to go wrong with a pinky-orange lilikoi shave ice, but I could have done without the additional pink strawberry mochi on the bottom because it tasted like bubble gum and was too brittle--I like my mochi soft and chewey. A long line of colored bottles holding a vast variety of flavors will require you to make some important decisions. Boba tea is also available.

Polish dog and lemonade at Puka Dog in Poipu, Kauai, Hawaii

●Puka Dog  

2360 Kiahuna Plantation Dr., in Poipu Shopping Village, Koloa, (808) 742-6044. Daily 10am-8pm. The small menu here is spelled out atmospherically on a surf board. I like the Polish but a veggie and several other dogs are options. Slather the housebaked sweet-bread bun with sweet ilikoi mustard and fresh mango relish and you are in for a big tropical treat. Wash it down with a big, icy-cold fresh-squeezed lemonade.

Tasting Kauai tours  

(808) 635-0257. Reservations required. These food tours are organized and led by Marta Lane, author of “Tasting Kauai.”
     ●Farmers Market Tours  Wednesdays at 3-4pm; at Kapaa Farmers Market; www.tastingkauai.com/event/farmers-market-class.
     ●A Taste of Kilohana  Saturdays, 2 times/month; $140.
     ●A Culinary Romp Through Paradise  Fridays, 1 time/month; $140.

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