I never thought we would actually go to Hawai’i, but I am so glad we did…

More specifically, Kaua’i, Hawai’i. The Garden Isle. The oldest island in the Hawai’ian Archipelago. You probably know it best for appearing in television and movies like Fantasy Island, Jurassic Park, Raiders of the Lost Ark, and most recently The Descendants.

When we were presented with the opportunity to accompany my great friend Pain in the Trek to Kaua’i to support her while running the Kaua’i Marathon for the second year, we were indecisive. First of all, we were not sure Hawai’i was for us. Secondly, were not sure we had the budget and vacation time to pull it off. Nonetheless, it is not everyday you get an invite like this… After making some minor adjustments and sacrifices, we were able to accept the invitation.

My first picture upon landing. After being over the ocean for 6 hours, there was a little uncertainty about the stability of the island until I actually put my feet on the ground. I know that sounds crazy, but the Pacific Ocean is huge. Flying over it took a long time in which I only saw a lot of blue. This massive ocean makes these islands look tiny. I had been over The Atlantic and Pacific before but never stopped in the middle of one. I am happy to say all was forgotten once we arrived. Whew.

After traveling for 15 hours and finally landing in Lihue (La-Hooey) we were not feeling up to much of an adventure when we arrived at the Ko’a Kea Resort on Poipu. There was a 5 hour time change so we were not really up for anything other than some dinner, the hot tub, and then to bed.

As a result of the time change, we were up at 4:00 in the morning for a moonlight stroll on the beach.

The pool at the Ko’a Kea. The hotel was smaller and more intimate than a lot of the grand resorts on the island.

A tropical walking path to rooms.

One of the views of the ocean from the property. Close to the Poipu Beach.

Plumeria flowers are so beautiful!

Looking towards the west from the Ko’a Kea.

In my opinion, you cannot just eat at the hotel restaurant all of the time. My advice is to do some research, get in your rental car, and find something good to eat. This is what I say to myself or anyone who has dared to go on a vacation with me.

First breakfast stop, Joe’s on the Green in Poipu.

Coffee was definitely in order. Chad also ordered some guava juice. I must confess that I am SO in love with guava juice. It was everywhere on the island and I just wanted to drink it all. Yum!

The morning views from our patio table.

I had to order the “SuperJoe” Loco Moco.

When in Hawai’i or anywhere, I must make it a point to eat like a local as much as possible. Rice, burger patty, gravy, and a fried egg. The “Super Joe” extras were caramelized onions, mushrooms, cheddar cheese, and an extra egg.

Runny egg, burger, gravy, rice all mixed together. This was a satisfying breakfast choice for me… and Chad. It may not be your thing, but you have to try a version of it at least once if you are on the islands. Mahalo.

Amy’s Huevos Ranchero’s.

Traditional Ham & Cheese Omelet with the not so traditional side of rice.

Josephine’s Ultimate Banana – Macadamia Nut Pancakes. First glance, I didn’t think they were going to be anything special. I was wrong.

These pancakes were heavenly! The cakes are light, moist, and fluffy, but the macadamia nuts, banana, and coconut syrup take the whole experience to another level.

Joe’s is a great place for an early breakfast for those Mainlanders who get up so early. Breakfast starts at 7:00am and runs until 11:30am. There are even Early Bird Specials from 7-8:30am. There is also a Happy Hour in the afternoon. Check the website for details.

Joe’s on the Green, 2545 Kiahuna Plantation Dr., Koloa, Kauai 96756

A great start to a great vacation. More to come… stay tuned!