This studio is the perfect place to use as base camp while you explore the island and beaches. While Iʻm listing them, Iʻm going to give you pronunciations so those who donʻt know how can hear and pronounce Hawaiʻian with a better grasp.

I also want to stress this slogan, regarding water after a rain: 'If itʻs brown, turn around!'

Immediately after a big rain river and stream waters contain contaminants that are best avoided. If you see brown in the ocean, wait until itʻs had a chance to dilute. Youʻll avoid what many people think may be bad food or a touch of the flu. Thereʻs so much to do on the island that rescheduling your water plans to avoid contact wonʻt ruin your vacation. Right after a rain, mountain waterfalls are something you shouldnʻt miss. There are plenty of vantage points in and around Hanalei for taking keepsake photos that are only possible after a big rain on the mountains.

If youʻre a surfer, Hanalei Bay offers a variety of experiences. You can rent kayaks and SUPS to play on the Hanalei River, plus boards for the bay. If youʻre wanting to try surfing for the first time, there are many surf instructors in the area. Take your pick.

If you are experienced at hiking there is a challenging hike to Hanakapiʻai Falls (hah nah KAH pee eye) from Keʻe Beach (KAY ay) where highway 560 terminates. There is no cell phone coverage here. Youʻll want to start early to get a parking space. Be aware of weather reports before you head out on the trail. Make sure you have sturdy hiking shoes. This is NOT an asphalt walking path. It is the clay dirt trail that has been used for hundreds of years. It can be extremely slippery. The river becomes raging from rains falling upstream on the mountain, sometimes while itʻs sunny below. Having the rescue team air lift you out is probably not on your list of Kauaʻi vacation experiences. Nor is it fair for the people who must risk their lives to locate and extract stranded hikers. Be prepared to end your hike with red dirt stains on your shoes or boots. Take plenty of water. This is basic hiking with no frills. But well worth it. Just stay smart and be informed! And enjoy beautiful Napali Coast (na PAH lee).

Take a boat tour of the Napali Coast, starting from Port Allen on the opposite side of the island. There are caves and beaches that can only be accessed by water. Incredibly beautiful. You can book a tour in Princeville or Hanalei at one of the kiosks.

In the winter drive east and watch the whales from the lookout at Kealiʻa (kay uh LEE uh) on the edge of Kapaʻa.

It you are a new snorkeler, I recommend Lydgate Park beside the Wailua River. Itʻs less challenging than many other places, but the fish will dazzle you! Itʻs a great place to feel safe and practice up for Tunnels.

You may see seals sunning and molting on the rocks as well if you go between August and November. As with all wild creature, please give them plenty of space - for their safety and yours! They are a protected species and fines are stiff for getting too close.

Itʻs hard to describe all the places and things you can do on this island. The list is never ending. Just ask and Iʻll share information about your interests.

We have beach items that change constantly, so I wonʻt give a list. I ask that you rinse them off with the hose thatʻs located by the tree, across the sidewalk from the lanai, to clean off the sand and dirt that clings after a fun day out exploring. You may find a shower at the area youʻve visited.

Mahalo!