It’s a mere two days until the lovely Caroline and my regular self jet off to the sunny climes of Kauai and I can’t help but spend more and more time in a dreamlike state of anticipation. I’ve been spurred on by photos from my last trip to the Garden Isle in 2010 and as such, I felt it only responsible to post some of these pics up so there’s some idea of what we’re getting ourselves into. I realize that this might not be fair to all parties (especially those not coming to Hawai’i), but consider this a dose of inspiration… Neither Caroline or I have large sums of cash lying around after the holidays and some particularly expensive life achievements (congratulations C-Dub!!!), but this trip proves that paradise can be had on the (relatively) cheap and easy with some dedication and motivation.

Honolulu on the approach… This time we’re completely avoiding O’ahu and flying direct to Lihue, thanks Alaskan! Also, flights are so cheap from Vancouver that we couldn’t afford not to go!

 

Looking out across Hanalei Bay.

 

Future Hanalei shredder…

 

The Irons ‘ohana – my last trip to Kauai was tragically coincidental with the passing of Andy Irons, a Kauai local that will be forever remembered.

 

A.I. Forever paddle out – the man was loved and respected at home and across the world.

 

Hanalei Bay at sundown

 

Long peeling shoulders into the bay

 

Tucking into a sweet Kauai pit

 

S’UP along the shoulder

 

Split the peak

 

Honu, living the dream

 

 

Hanalei Bay with a verdant backdrop

 

 

Wailua River

 

 

Lagoon moonlight reflections

 

Waimea canyon

 

Max chillin’

 

Excited to drive these roads again…

In Hawaiian, Aloha implies affection, peace, compassion and mercy.  In English, we take it as both hello and goodbye.  All of these concepts coexist peacefully and will be waiting for us in Hawai’i. Here’s to the good times, past and present, and to getting out there to find them.

New to this trip will be the addition of some of Tim’s awesome Radish Paipo’s… I’m giddy with anticipation for getting these traditional Hawai’ian watercraft back into home waters. Paipo therapy is imminent…

Aloha and Mahalo… til next time.