Day 6

Hanalei River

My legs feel like a couple of lead posts this morning. Two more days left in paradise and I wasn't going to be the wet blanket. We rented a kayak again in Hanalei. we were determined to tread the river this time on our own.

The rental company, Kayak Hanalei, was the same one we used on Monday. It's family owned and they give you the best service ever. Goldie was really nice, she took care of us until we boarded the kayak and really made us feel like we are part her 'ohana' (family).

View of the valley with its taro fields. Right picture shows part of the Hanalei River

Today was a sunny and gorgeous day. the river runs 13 miles into the mountains. We only paddled 3 1/5 miles into it and went back. No other kayakers there either. It was quiet and pretty much slow moving since the wind was going against us. We headed back and decided to go back to sea to see some green sea turles in the bay. Our way back was really relaxing. The wind was behind us most of the way and therefore only required so little effort from us. We cruised at a slow pace and we were able to see more birds standing like statues on the river banks, small turtles on dead wood, ducks and fishes on the river.

One way bridge over the Hanalei river. The bridge only has one lane and so traffic both ways has to take turns crossing it.

Once we got to the mouth of the river that goes to the bay, we had to paddle against the waves, hoping we won't turn over. We settled past the buoys and waited. Then--we saw the turtles' head pop up from the water, they were big ones! We kept our distance from them and we tried not to make sudden moves. They are very shy creatures and do not liked being harrassed. I was able to take some pictures using our disposable camera.

The Queen's Bath

By noon we were done with kayaking and had enough time to explore some more. We wanted to see the Queen's bath in Princeville. It does require a short hike downhill (oh man!) and I braved it just so I won't miss seeing the site. It was worth it, inspite of the warnings that there is danger in the unpredictable surf.

Queen's bath amidst lava rocks. Just a breathtaking sight.

A couple of other places we wanted to visit as well didn't materialize. One required a 4wd and the other was inaccessible to visitors as the trail passes through some private property.

Regardless, the day was still more than what we expected. We went home tired and hungry. We have to finish the food in the refrigerator (including the ice cream cake) before we leave on Saturday.

Copyright 2004 Wandertrekker