All good things must come to an end

Our Kauai 2011 vacation came to a safe and fulfilling ending yesterday at 7:10 a.m. as we arrived home to find a very happy golden retriever to greet us.

Our room view on the last morning

In every way, it was a great vacation. We had no serious problems and only a few minor hassles. We accomplished almost everything we wanted but without jamming each moment with an activity. There were a few things on our wish list that we didn't get to (bicycle trip down Wiamea Canyon), but are eager to return so that we can cross them off the list. We also began building our list for future Kauai trips. (Anyone want to join us for the 11-mile hike from Ke'e Beach to Kalalau Beach?)

Relaxing pool side while
 waiting for our evening flight.

We want to thank Jeff, Alicia, and Gabby Sandoval for being such fun travel companions. We hope we didn't get on your nerves too much. We also want to thank Janelle Brunette for taking such good care of our most prized possessions (our home, our dog, and our bird). Finally, thanks to all the blog readers. We hope you enjoyed reading of our adventures as much as we enjoyed sharing.
Mahalo,
Luis and Luella

Not so secret beaches and beach bum dogs

On Monday, instead of back to work, it was back to the beaches. We started at Secret Beach. It's obviously no so secret anymore. However, it does require a bit of a hike to get to the beach and then 1/3 of a mile walk through the soft sand to get to the lava pools. Definitely worth it.






A few of the pools are deep enough to snorkel (about 12 feet deep).















There's a waterfall to wash off the sea water. How cool is that?

After leaving Secret Beach, we hit the Foodland Grocery Store to buy a picnic lunch and made our way west of Hanalei to Tunnels beach. The beach is beautiful and the snorkeling was good. 

We also made friends with a beach bum dog. His routine is to walk up to people, sit down, wag his tail and hope for snacks. Those of you that know Luella, already know how this ends - friends for life. This picture shows them napping together. 

Designing a perfect day in Hanalei

On Sunday, we started our day with Mass at St. William's Catholic Church in Hanalei. We enjoyed the service, especially the part where all visitors were given shell necklaces. Nice hospitality ministry touch.









After Mass, we lounged poolside and tried the Aloha Mary drinks.

In the afternoon, we also prayed that we would play good golf. Alas, I think we over-stepped our requests as the holy spirit was happy to give us the opportunity to play in such a beautiful place. As for playing well? Not so much.








The day ended with a sunset champagne toast from our room. Days and vacations do not get much better  than this.

Add caption