9. Kaua'i - Ha'ena Beach

First, we pack all our things and leave Popui around 9 o'clock. When traveling around Kauai, you almost automatically stumble upon the Wailua Falls. The nearly 30-meter high twin waterfall is one of the most famous photo spots on the island and was even featured in the intro of the series Fantasy Island.
The beauty of this place is that you don’t have to make any effort to see it. No long jungle hike, no muddy shoes. We now stand at the viewpoint. In the past, some people used to climb down the steep slope, and there were even fatal accidents; this is no longer possible as everything is now gated off. We find the waterfalls not as spectacular as you might think. The view from the side is not good enough. We quickly leave the site and head north. We reach Ha'ena Beach. There are only a few parking spots, and we have to wait about 10 minutes until a space becomes available for us. First, we walk to the Maniniholo Dry Cave. The Maniniholo Dry Cave is not only visually impressive, but it is also a fascinating testament to Kauai's geological history. Geologically, it is a classic sea cave. Thousands of years ago, when the sea level was significantly higher than today, the untamed waves of the Pacific crashed continuously against the base of the steep lava cliff. Over thousands of years of relentless erosion, the softer volcanic rock was gradually broken and washed away until this large cavity was formed. As the sea receded over time, the cave was left dry.
However, its current distinctive shape is due to a much younger natural event: a devastating tsunami in 1957. The massive tidal waves rolled deep into the cave at that time and washed tons of fine sea sand inside. This completely filled and leveled the original cave floor. So when you walk through the sandy cavity today, you are basically walking on a piece of seabed that nature has relocated into the rock.
It is impressive how deep the cave is. Afterwards, we have a picnic and then change for a swim in the sea. Swimming is not allowed directly at the car, so we walk a few meters further and can put on our snorkeling masks at Tunnel Beach.
The beach owes its name to a gigantic, horseshoe-shaped coral reef with countless underwater tunnels and caves formed by ancient lava flows.
Even in the shallow inner reef, you swim as if in a natural aquarium among brightly colored yellow Hawaiian surgeonfish, sea turtles (Honus), and the famous state fish Humuhumunukunukuapua'a. It is said to be the best snorkeling spot in Kauaʻi, and we are thrilled. We have never seen so many fish before. We also see a honu underwater. As beautiful as snorkeling at Tunnels Beach is, it has real pitfalls—especially in the inner reef area. The coral reef is extremely shallow in places under the water's surface. At lower water levels or with sudden waves, there is often only a few centimeters of clearance between your belly and the razor-sharp rocks.
René and Erik both injure their knees.
After the beach visit, we stroll through Hanalei, a small town.
The streetscape is characterized by colorfully painted wooden houses, small boutiques, shops, and food trucks. As every year, we also had our traditional gift for the boys on this Children's Day: a voucher for a personal vacation souvenir. The search for the perfect memento became a little adventure of its own in Hanalei.
Erik chose a beautiful necklace—a cool piece of jewelry, and David fell head over heels in love with a cuddly plush turtle. At 3:30 PM we want to check into our new accommodation, but unfortunately, it is not yet available. The short walk initially leads through a small forest full of roots and mud, past a small waterfall, until you ultimately step onto the rough, black lava plateau by the coast. The contrast between the dark volcanic rock, the deep blue ocean, and the white surf is breathtaking.
The Queen’s Bath itself is a unique, natural tide pool that has been carved directly into the lava rock. When the sea is absolutely calm, the water shimmers emerald green and looks like a royal swimming pool.
After a moment of awe, we checked the conditions very carefully: Luckily, the sea was completely calm that day, and the waves remained far out from the edge of the rock. After a brief hesitation, the boys finally dared: they carefully climbed over the black stones and jumped into the crystal clear, emerald green water. Unfortunately, I didn’t bring a swimsuit and didn’t want to swim in my underwear. The boys have a lot of fun, and after the refreshment, the way back is quite easy. The short distance to the hotel is quickly accomplished, and the room is finally ready. The apartment is large with 2 bedrooms and offers many amenities. We quickly prepare our dinner and then go swimming in the hotel pool. There is even a hot tub where René and I can relax. We let the evening end peacefully on the balcony.