What can I say? Another day in paradise.
Kauai has the nickname a separate kingdom because it lies 100 miles west of Oahu, both furthest west and furthest apart of all the high islands. It has remnants of two periods of vulcanism, the early constructive, shield building phase about 5.1 million years ago and a rejuvenation stage, late in the destructive process, that happened aroud 1.0 million to o.5 million.
The northshore, Na Pali (the cliffs), has served as the set for several movies, most notably the Jurassic Park trilogy. I have hiked the Kalalau trail, about 6 miles or so, a trail created by ancient Hawai’ians who lived in Kalalau valley among others. The trail was necessary because the Northern Pacific storms in winter (now) create such high waves that access, even by these experienced oceanfolk, was not possible.
Ate breakfast this morning at the Ilima Terrace. Ilima is a succulent plant that grows off runners and edges the beaches usually about thirty or forty feet back from the water. The terrace overlooks the Pacific and has a wonderful sea breeze. Very peaceful.
After a 30 plus minute walk, I sat down in the chairs situated at the ocean end of the grand entrance, drank water and listened to a talk about a blue and gold macaw, Duke, a greenwing macaw, Riko, and a salmon colored cockatoo, Maliel. Still trying to soak up the resort experience and atmosphere. Conclusion so far? At its best the resort provides a place to relax. A no brainer? Maybe, but it could be missed in the activities and food and water sports.
