Nawiliwili

Kauai is the oldest and smallest of the Hawaiian islands.  The Garden Island is full of stunning natural attractions such as canyons, cliff sides, and valleys.  They say that no building can be taller than a coconut tree which might be why this island feels a little more wild and untamed.  This was the first island that Captain James Cook landed, and also the place where the dinosaurs and film crew of Jurassic Park spent some movie time, but more recently a population of wild roosters have taken over.  Even the bus drivers say, "If you see one, take it home!"     

The lighthouse guarding the entrance to Nawiliwili Bay.

Nawiliwili harbor is surrounded by green cliff sides and makes for a stunning place to watch the ships pull in.

While a lot of the island is natural beauty, there are definitely areas that are a little more man-made.  This is the Kauai Marriott Resort. 

Kalapaki Beach is a beautiful little stretch of sand, driftwood, and lava rock.  It's very peaceful as well if you ignore the Marriott hotel behind you.

The nene is the Hawaiian state bird (a goose, really).  They've been listed as an endangered species since 1967, but thankfully, are starting to make a comeback.

A way less endangered bird, the feral chicken population on Kauai has no problems growing and keeping residents awake at all hours.

A garden island wouldn't be complete without flowers, and there are some really stunning ones here.  Here, some red heliconia in bloom.

I think this might be a type of red blossom plumeria.  Or, more accurately...I have no clue.

Also, no clue, but still beautiful.

A bird of paradise watching the water.

A beautiful flower with a slightly less pleasant name, a spider lily.

The Hawaii state flower, a yellow hibiscus.