Ben and I spent our seven night honeymoon in paradise! There were only a few requirements for the trip. We wanted to take it right away; it had to be tropical; and it had to be pretty easy-going. We love a backroads adventure trek but after months of planning you weren’t going to find us anywhere near a frame backpack or hostel!

Having never been to Hawaii myself at all, I was excited when Ben mentioned Kauai, an island he’d never visited. Our decision was vindicated when friends and family exclaimed in delight and enthusiastically offered their suggestions for hotels, restaurants, and outdoor activities.

The most-recommended thing-to-do on the entire island was a hike along the Napali Coast, the northwestern tip of the island. There are many trails and caves in that area, but universally we were told: drive to the end of the road (it almost loops the island completely, but not quite), park the car, and start hiking toward the hidden beach. This turns out to be the first portion of the Kalalau Trail hike, known as the the Hanakapi`ai Trail.

It is indeed a gorgeous trail! Lush greenery, breathtaking views of turquoise seas and white sand coast. The well-kept but difficult trail leads up and down through Jurassic-looking hills, eventually landing on Hanakapi`ai beach, where many hang out, eat lunch and then turn around. But! A side branch of the trail continues on to Hanakoa Falls, which was our destination. One of the most beautiful things I’ve ever seen – freshwater tumbling from above into a deep pool with a rock shelf behind the falls. The entire trail was *amazing* and totally worth the days of sore muscles (helped along by a wonderful Hawaiian Lomi Lomi massage). Next time (anniversary trip!) maybe we’ll hike in and camp?