Nawiliwili Harbour is a significant deep water harbour on Kauai, serving as a vital transportation hub for cargo, cruise ships. The population of Kauai, the fourth largest Hawaiian island, was estimated to be around 71,000 people.

After not being able to hire a car here, by chance we caught an Uber and the driver happen to have  a tour business and was able to take us where we wanted to go. First stop was the local coffee plantation, Kauai Coffee Company. We tasted locally grown coffee, and learn’t about the coffee making process. Mark thought is was the best coffee he has had so far. Then on to Waimea Canyon. Often called the "Grand Canyon of the Pacific," Waimea Canyon had the most breathtaking panoramic views and numerous hiking trails and waterfalls. This is the islands  biggest tourist attraction. We reached the top but unfortunately the fog has set in and we couldn’t see the view on the other side of the canyon overlooking the Nepali Coast.

Heading back we stopped at Poipu Beach. This is a  popular tourist and locals beach with great snorkelling, swimming and fishing. We were lucky to see the  green sea turtles on the beach and as it was Sunday,  it was also very busy. The beach also has some nice hotels and very expensive real estate. The guide said the sunsets here are spectacular.

We also stopped and visited the Spouting Horn, a  natural blowhole where seawater shoots up through a hole in the lava rock, creating a hissing and spouting effect. Our guide pointed out some turtles close by.

There are so many chickens and roosters here. The presence of feral chickens in Hawaii, especially on Kauai, is a fascinating and quirky aspect of the islands' culture and environment. 

In the harbour there are some beautiful resorts and local beach bars. Our guide lead us to Dukes beach bar. The bar overlooked the harbour and after  a couple of cold beers and local Mai Tai cocktails we headed back to the ship. Another great day. Kauai is a paradise for nature lovers, hikers, beachgoers. The island's diverse landscapes, from lush rainforests to arid canyons, provide a wide range of activities and attractions to enjoy. 

Unfortunately, due to the terrible bush fires in Maui, we were unable to visit this trip. So sad for the community and we hope they recover soon. With this itinerary change we stayed overnight here in Nawiliwili and got to experience the local roosters throughout the night….. With a short day the next day we caught a Uber to a local shopping centre and experienced some local American shopping.

Leaving the port the ship was turned around with a helicopter fly by. Then the ship turned around again. Then we had to go indoors and were notified a sick passenger needed to be  airlifted back to Honolulu. We hope they are okay?