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Is Kayaking available on Kauai?
Yes, In fact compared to the other Hawaiian Island, Kauai has more rivers providing Kayakers with numerous opportunities to explore jungle landscapes and waterfalls that can't be reached on foot.
How do I become a Volunteer with NOAA?
The NOAA (National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration) has volunteer opportunities within NOAA's Fisheries Service, National Ocean Service, National Weather Service and Sea Grant Programs.
For more information please visit NOAA Volunteer Site
Where does the Kalalau trail start, how long is the hike to the Hanakapi'ai falls and what are the things to bring?
The hike begins at the end of the road just before Ke'e Beach. The Kalalau Trial leads you in 2 miles to the Hanakapi'ai beach. This is the perfect location to rest up for an additional 2 mile hike to the Hanakapi'ai Valley and the base of the falls.
For more information on the Kalalau Trail and its location, please visit Kauai Explorer & Kalalau Trail
For more information on the Hanakapi'ai Trail & Falls, please visit
Kauai Explorer & Hanakapi'ai
For information on what to bring on a remote hike, please visit
Kauai Explorer & What to Bring
Stargazing Kauai?
Yes. Stargazing on Kauai is excellent. The Hawaiian Islands are in the middle of the Pacific Ocean far away from any urban area. Night skys are dramatic and spectacular.
Moviestar gazing is discouraged and against Kauaiian etiquette.
What TV shows have been filmed on Kauai, Hawaii?
Most well known recent and current filming of TV shows include:
ABC's Lost which was awarded 2005 Emmy Award and received the 2006 Golden Globe for best drama series.
What does HMC and NSK Stand for?
HMC stands for Hale Makai Cottages and NSK stands for North Shore Kauai.
Which Airline Carriers provide specials on Non-Stop Flights to Lihue?
Yes, some do. Some airline carriers have seasonal non-stop flights during the summer months other airline carriers offer non-stop flights to Kauai throughout the year. Special airfares are often available during different times of the year in Spring, Summer, Fall and Winter. For example, Spring Specials, Spring Break Specials, Summer Getaways, and Holiday Specials occur which sometimes include non-stop flights to Lihue. We mostly see these specials through ATA, United and American Airlines but occassionally other carriers offer them as well. Those airfare offers are often short lived and best booked immedicately. Most of these offers are out of LAX, SFO, OAK and SAN.
Aloha Airlines, Hawaiian Airlines and Southwest are a good resources for regular flights.
It's always helpful to check for airfare specials and current information with each individual airline.
To find more information regarding flight check directly with United Airlines, Aloha Airlines ,Hawaiian Airlines, ATA and American Airlines
Where can I report a Marine Mammal that is stranded or entangled?
Please call Marine Mammal Stranding and Entanglement Hotline at 1-888-256-9840 or for more information please visit NOAA National Marine Fisheries Service
Where can I find out detailed information on the beaches of Kauai
Kauai has more beaches per mile of coastline than any of the other Hawaiian Islands. You may be interested in finding a particular beach to meet your needs. You can research the most beautiful beaches, best snorkeling and swimming beaches, the most kid and family friendly beaches and the best beaches to learn to surf. Please visit Kauai Explore or Hawaii Beach Safety
Where can I purchase the handmade Hawaiian soaps that are used in Hale Makai Cottages?
Handmade Coco Soap with Poi 'n Herbs are marvelously silky coconut Oil, pure Glycerin, healthful Yerba Santa herbs and Hawaiian Poi flakes in a creamy all body soap. The Yerba Santa (Holy Herb) provides the natural butterand brown coloration and the earthy scent. An extremely fine and unusual soap. Gift packaged with coco beads or pine branches and raffia. Handmade in Kaua’i.
These soaps are available at Papaya's Natural Food store in Hanalei or you can purchase them online at Kaua'i Gems
A portion of each sale benefits The Waipa Foundation Taro fields in Hanalei, Hawaii
Where can I find daily event listings?
The Garden Island News provides a daily calendar of events. To view this calendar please visit Kauai World
Where can I learn more about Kauai's ecosystem and island specific flowers and plants?
There are some very informative websites that cater mainly to island related issues. We love the articles on the subject: "KAUAI FLORA & FAUNA" at the Island Breath Website or try "A Pocket Guide to Hawaii's Trees and Shrubs", Mutual Publishing 1998, might be a helpful source while on a hike.
Is there a particular guidebook you can recommend?
There are a number of guidebooks available, however we find "The Ultimate Kauai Guidebook" by Wizard Publications Inc. to be especially helpful. Visit the website at WizardPub
Is there a Botanical Garden on Kauai's North Shore?
Yes, The Limahuli Garden offers the most wonderful self-guided tours through beautiful Tropical Botanical Gardens. For more information please visit Limahuli Gardens
Where can I get a permit to hike the Kalalau Trail?
State park policies and procedures can be accessed through Hawaii State Parks
Where can I get a quick glance of the history of Hawaii?
A complete overview of the Hawaiian islands and their history is avaialble at Hawaii Wikipedia
Where can I learn more about Kauai?
To Learn more in depth facts about the island of Kauai, please visit Kauai Wikipedia
Are there any direct flights to Kauai from the mainland?
It seems that you can fly directly from major airports such as San Francisco, Los Angeles, etc. on United Airlines or American Airlines throughout the year. Aloha Airlines, Hawaiian Airlines and ATA all fly to Kauai however they have a quick stop in Honolulu. In previous years they have occasionally offered nonstop flights during peak season. It's always helpful to check current information with each individual airline.
To find more information regarding flight check directly with United Airlines, Aloha Airlines ,Hawaiian Airlines, ATA and American Airlines
What do I do if I see a Monk Seal on the Beach?
Monk Seals usually come up to the beach to sleep and rest. For more informaton on procedure to protect them from being distrubed please visit Kauai Monk Seal Watch Program
What is Hawaii's State Fish?
The State fish of Hawaii is the Humuhumunukunuku apua'a also known as Reef Triggerfish. To find out more information on Kauai's Fish visit Kauai Reef Creature Guide
Where can I find out up to date Surf Advisories?
Reserching the ocean advisories is always recommended before entering the water. For current surf conditions and beach reports Kauai Explore
Where can I buy rare Hawaiian Leis?
In the past Hale Makai Guest have purchased Hawaiian Leis directly from Rob Arita, who is one of the many Lei maker on the island. Rob only uses gem quality shells from Kauai and Niihau and each piece has precise origins of the shells he uses. He is a very gifted artist and has provided our guest with leis specifically made for them. We highly recommend Rob Arita. Visit his website at Aloha Kahelelani
Is dining on Kauai expensive?
Kauai is no more expensive than any other place. As with any location, there will always be expensive restaurants but Kauai does offer a little bit for everyone. Having a accommodation with a kitchen can certainly relieve any worries in this department.
What beaches are the best for seeing Turtles and Seals?
Tunnels Beach and Ke’e Beach are well known areas for seeing both Turtles and Seals. The beach directly in front of Hale Makai is also a great place to spot a Monk Seal sunbathing.
Is Hale Makai Cottages located on the North or South Shore of Kauai?
The property is located on the North Shore of Kauai
What types of Beach Equipment does Hale Makai Cottages supply to its guest?
Hale Makai Cottages supplies beach towels and folding beach chairs. Unfortunately we don’t supply boogie boards, surf boards, beach toys, beach umbrellas, snorkel gear or scuba gear. Most of these beach items can be rented in Hanalei.
Do I need to rent a car?
Rentals cars are a highly recommended on the island of Kauai. Most major rental companies are represented at the Lihue Airport. For maximum savings, we recommend to book online prior to your arrival.
Are there churches or places for worship nearby?
All denominations are available within ten minutes of Hale Makai Cottages.
What is the water temperature and is the beach at Hale Makai swimmable?
The water temperature varies from summer highs of approximately 80 degrees to a low of about 73 degrees during the coolest winter months. Yes typically there is great swimming and snorkeling in the waters in front of Hale Makai. Kauai can have large waves in the winter, and strong currents can make a beaches unsafe, so always use your judgment and watch for warning flags and posted beach conditions.
How far of a drive is Hale Makai Cottages from the Lihue Airport?
Hale Makai Cottages is approximately a 1 hour drive.
Which beaches on Kauai have lifegruads?
Hanalei Bay
Lydgate Beach
Poipu Beach
Salt Pond Beach
Wailua Beach (Weekends/Holidays)
Anahola Beach (Weekends/Holidays)
Is there a place on the island where I can rent items for my baby / child?
Yes there are several rental agencies where you can rent everything from High Chairs to Cribs to strollers.
Baby's Away of Kauai 800-996-9030
Baby Ready Rentals
PO Box 508 Koloa, HI 96756
808-823-8008 or 1-800-599-8008
Ready Rentals
Do I have to have a camping permit?
Yes all State and County Parks require permits for all overnight visits.
To acquire permits State Park Application or County Park Application Parks and Recreation Department
Is there a farmers market on Kauai?
Yes, Tuesday in Hanalei (Waipa) is the Hawaiian Farmers of Hanalei. Be there early with your running shoes!
Where can we buy fresh fish on the island?
Hanalei Dolphin Restaurant & Fish Market ~ 808 826-6113
Located in Hanalei Family Center: 5-5299 C Kuhio Highway, Hanalei, Kauai, HI 96714
Fish Market Hours of Operation: Daily 10:00 AM - 8:00 PM
Restaurant Hours of Operation: Daily 11:00 AM - 8:00 PM
Where can I buy fresh fruit and vegetables?
There are Sunshine Farmer Markets around the island. For information on the location and times Sunshine Markets
Is there any public transportation on Kauai?
Yes there is the Kauai Bus, which travels from Poipu to Hanalei and is wheel chair assessable.
Transportation Agency
What movies have been filmed on Kauai?
The beautiful Island of Kauai has been a popular background for a variety of Movies and television shows. In fact over the years Kauai has made its presence in over 40 movies.
The well known movies filmed on Kauai are:
South Pacific by 20th Century Fox Filmed in 1957
Gilligan's Island United Artist / CBS Productions 1964
King Kong Paramount Pictures 1976
Fantasy Island Universal Studios 1977
Raiders of the Lost Ark Lucas-Spielberg Productions 1983
The Thorn Birds Warner Bros. 1983
Lord of the flies Castle Rock Films 1990
Hook Amblin Entertainment 1991
Honeymoon in Vegas Castle Rock Entertainment 1992
Jurassic Park I by Universal Pictures 1993
Outbreak Warner Bros 1995
George of the Jungle Walt Disney Pictures 1997
Jurassic Park II by Universal Pictures 1997
6 Days / 7 Nights Touchstone Pictures 1998
The Times Machine Dreamworks LLC & Warner Bros. 2001
Jurassic III 2001
Dragonfly Universal Pictures 2002
Lilo & Stitch Walt Disney Pictures 2002
World's Best Beaches Travel Channel 2003
Recently Filmed:
Tropic Thunder directed by Ben Stiller, DreamWorks SKG will be coming to a theatre near you! Summer 2008
To view a complete list of movies visit the Kauai Film Commission Website.
What is the weather like on Kauai?
The island of Kauai has a moderate climate all year-round, with little variation in temperatures. Kauai’s weather is very localized, rain on the south side could mean perfect sunny weather on the north shore vice versa. Overall the South shore tends to be a little drier than the North shore which is also reflected in the vegitation. The North shore naturally is tropically green all year round where as the South shore tends to look drier during the summer months. Much of Kauai’s rainfall is a nightly occurrence, and the rain showers that do occur are often brief and intense. On average, June through early October, temperatures range from highs of 85-90 F to lows from 70-73 F. From late October through May the highs tend to lie between 76-80 F and the lows tend to be 60-65 F, mostly at night. The trade winds on Kauai add a refreshing breeze, while enjoying the tropical weather. For more information on up to date weather on Kauai; Kauai World Weather
When is Whale Watching Season?
December through April
Hale Makai New Feature
Hale Makai Cottages has added a new feature. You will now be able to come here to check for frequently asked question (FAQ).
We will be updating this page as need arises. Feel free to email us with any questions that are not answered on this page.
Dwayne
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