Hanalei

f you want to go to Hawaii and not feel like a tourist then Kauai's Gem "Hanalei" is the spot. It is know as "The home to the Taro fields". Large resorts don't smother this little town, but rather you will find a small church "Wai'oli Huiia" that's the town's icon. The beautiful Hanalei River flows through the town and is a great spot for paddle boarding, and the Hanalei pier the spot where the river meets the ocean is known for a place where locals hang with family and friends for weekend BBQ's.
I see Hanalei more as a village than a town the Ching Young Village shopping Center in the heart of the town it is surrounded by local markets, bakeries and shops. While in town you must visit Hanalei Coffee Roasters, Bubba Burgers a local hangout, and the town's favorite "Wishing Well" with the best shaved ice in town and if you want to know the locals secret then go through the backdoor of the "Hanalei Dolphin Restarant" and you will find a small fish market with the best clam chowder, handmade sushi rolls, and over counter to go items. The other local favorite is the health food store it has a small over the counter in the back of the store with great soups, sandwiches and smoothies.
Hanalei is truly Kauai's Gem. Real Hawaii the old school way ....relaxed,laid back and simply beautiful.