Kauai, Hawaii - continued, Days 10 - end

We were just starting to sleep through rooster calls towards the end of our trip. However, this day held big plans for us as well. All of us decided to check out the Kilauea Lighthouse, the northernmost point of the main Hawaiian Islands. According to this link, it was built in 1913. Sadly, we arrived too early and the gate was closed. Nevertheless, we took some pics and saw some of the native birds including a booby. Yes, we had much fun with that word, too.






After some bird watching, Jenna & Dave stayed behind to do some more while the rest of us set out to kayak up the Hanalei River. We rented a some kayaks; Jason & I in singles and Art & Megan in a double. I, too, wanted a double, but Jason thought it would be more fun in our own boats. Wonder why....


Below is a photo I took of a sign at the rental place. There are so many words for this picture, but I just can't seem to think of them right now.



So we head up the river in our yellow kayaks coming across some interesting duck and turtle species. As we continued, we saw a log jam in the middle with some overhanging trees. Jason successfully negotiates the obstacle, so I start to follow the way around. Art & Megan decide they can take a different route. Unfortunately, some weight distribution problems caused them to capsize in the cold, mountain water. As Megan is gasping for breath, I'm trying to untether my life jacket to throw to her. It's really not that dramatic; I just wanted to do something to help. I ended up getting out of the way.

When everyone is back in open water, another species emerges from the bow of MY kayak--a gigantic spider! eeewwwww. Even though Jason disagrees, I say it's as big as my hand. Screaming and looking at my bailout options, I manage to get the creature on my paddle and throw it in to the water. IT WALKS ON THE WATER to Art & Megan's boat where it quickly climbs up the side. She was laughing until then. Jason paddles over to retrieve it, but the persistent thing, again, climbs on their boat. Finally, Art saves it by placing him back in a tree from which we are guessing he fell. I would have been fine if someone had smashed it or tried to drown it. Needless to say, I kept diligent watch when we passed that spot on our way back. Eeeeewwww.

The rest of the time was spent on short hikes and walking on the beach. Oh yeah--and another looonnnnggg plane ride back.

Kauai was amazing. Google it to find marvelous scenery and breathtaking photography.