Category: Things to do

Jojo’s Shave Ice

Jojo’s Shave Ice is the original Shave Ice store on Kauai serving the island since 1992.  Established in 1992, Jojo’s Shave Ice is the ultimate in shave ice on Kauai. The traditions and secret recipes of Jojo’s Shave Ice make it one of a kind.  Offering smaller junior sizes and Big Kahuna sizes, it is by far the best deal in shave ice that you can get compared to its competitors on the island of Kauai.  An original Shave Ice to Kauai, Jojo’s Shave Ice Logo has remained the same and continues to create a delicious product.

Serving the community, Jojo’s gives half of its profit to Makalani Kids Camp on Kauai as well as cover some of the costs for youth outreach and youth programs throughout the island..  This funding helps support less privileged youth. Furthermore it provides these youth with a life changing experience that enables them to see that there is much more to life than the circumstances in which they live in.  This is one of the reasons why Kauai With Keiki supports our L.O.C.A.L (Loving Our Community And Lifestyle) Jojo’s Shave Ice Stores. Jojo’s Shave Ice is definitely L.O.C.A.L!

Shave Ice is one of Hawaii’s specialty treats that locals and visitors enjoy. It is a steady frozen dessert for many children growing up in Hawaii. When it is hot in the islands, this cold refreshing treat definitely cools you off and is a steady companion when beating the heat.  Shave ice or Hawaiian shave ice is an ice-based dessert made by shaving a block of ice. Similar to that of a snow cone, shave ice differs in that the ice is shaved rather than crushed. Flavored syrups are added to the shave ice which are absorbed by the snow-like ice. It can be served with or without ice cream at the bottom of the cup.  In addition, a sno cap of sweetened condensed milk can also be drizzled to the top.

There are over 60 flavors to choose from at the Waimea Location.  There are over 30 flavors to choose from at the Hanalei location.

Offering one of the most expansive choices of flavors on the island, some of JoJo’s Flavors include:

Wild Berry, Vanilla, Tangerine, Tamarind, Strawberry Daiquiri, Strawberry Colada, Strawberry, Root Beer, Red Watermelon, Red Raspberry, POG, Pink Bubblegum, Pineapple, Pina Colada, Peach, Passion Orange, Papaya, Orange Dream, Orange, Melona, Margarita, Mango, Mai Tai, Lychee, Lime, Lilikoi, Li Hing Mui, Lemon lime, Lemon, Kola, Hawaiian Punch, Hawaiian Lemon, Guava Punch, Guava, Green Watermelon, Green Tea, Green Paradise, Grape, Fruit Punch, Daquiri, Cotton Candy, Coffee, Coconut, Chocolate, Cherry Cola, Cherry, Cappuccino, Boysenberry, Blueberry, Blue Raspberry, Blue Bubblegum, Blackberry, Black Cherry, Banana Colada, Banana, Apricot.

A Shave Ice is great with a scoop of mac nut or vanilla ice cream added to the bottom.


Publicized heavy during Former President Barack Obama’s presidency, eating shaved ice was always something he ate during his winter vacations to Hawaii.  However, Shaved Ice has been part of Hawaii’s history for many years and throughout the generations. Traces of its history to Japan, Shave Ice was brought to the Hawaiian islands by Japanese immigrants the late 1800’s.  Known as kaki-gori (Japanese term for sweetened Shaved Ice), the shave ice has become iconic in the islands. It is also to have origins from China as early as the 7th Century.


Popular local mom and pop stores continue their traditions on each Hawaiian island, still operating in their original locations. Generating even more business than ever before. Lines in shave ice stores can stretch past a half an hour.  Although there are many locations that you can get shave ice from, people wait for the experience of the original shave ice stands that have been long standing over the years.


Whether you are on the west side of the island or up on the north side, Jojo’s shave ice is there to satisfy your cravings.  Jojo’s shave ice can be found while driving to Polihale (westernmost point in the United States and farthest you can drive west on the island of Kauai) or Ke’e Beach (farthest you can drive North on the island of Kauai). Jojo’s Shave Ice is located in the centers of Waimea Town and Hanalei Town. The locations are great for people watching and meeting new people.  Jojo’s Shave Ice is the “original” place to get Shave Ice on the island.

When visiting Jojo’s Shave Ice in Waimea, mention Kauai With Keiki and recieve FREE Ice Cream and FREE Creme Topping in any Shave Ice order of 2 or more.


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Hula Shows for Free

Hula is a Way of Life

Hula is symbolic in Hawaii.  In the Pacific Islands, Hula is part of the culture that has been passed down from ancient times to the present. Hula is often depicted as a way of life in the islands. Furthermore, it is a tradition passed down from generation to generation and is an artform that is embedded into the Hawaiian and LOCAL culture.

Hula represents its people, the diversity of the Polynesian Pacific as well as tells a story of who the people are.  Furthermore, Through hula, stories are shared from the past that link its people to their ancestors playing a crucial role connecting its people to sustaining a vibrant culture.

Hula can express the feelings and emotions of a person, describe a place and its importance or can tell you of a story of an old event.  Hula is an art form that is respected by its people as a way of life.  Hula is a cultural practice that honors the past, invigorates the present and looks toward the future to preserving a way of the people through song and dance.

Free Hula Shows

On Kauai, there are many opportunities to see Hula being performed at Luau’s.  However, if you you are interested in seeing the Hula for free, four options should be on your to do list.

  1. Poipu Shopping Village; Every Monday and Thursday at 5:00 pm
  2. Coconut Marketplace; Wednesdays at 5:00 pm and Saturdays at 1:00 pm
  3. Hyatt Regency: Saturdays at 6:00 pm
  4. NTBG: South Sides Visitors Center; Every Thursday from 12:30pm; Farmer’s market 10:00am-2:00pm

Free Hula Shows that are offered on Kauai provide you with an opportunity to see different cultural dances from the Polynesian Islands. In addition, Hula dancers exhibit their talent by showcasing their skills with dancing different types of dancing styles from the indigenous peoples of the Pacific Islands.  These dances include Hawaiian dances (kahiko and auana) as well as Maori dances, Tahitian dances, Samoan dances and Tongan Dances.  

The dancers are adorned with the different cultural dress as well as use many different instruments.  Dancers also perform to live music, played by extraordinary musicians that provide and awe inspiring performance.  Entertainment is done from ages young to old, and the shows provide a quality representation of its cultural presence on Kauai.  

Actively participate in the dances when hula dancers ask for volunteers to come and join them.  Be prepared to learn how to dance hula and learn some of the basic movements required to dance one of the many popular songs of Hawaii.  It’s an opportunity for you to get a first hand experience of the Hawaiian culture.  Learning to dance is also a great conversation for you to share with family and friends.  Learning the Hula may help you to define Hawaii in your own words/hands to tell the world about its culture and its people.

Hula at Poipu Shopping Village

At Poʻipu Shopping Village, join Halau Ka Lei Mokihana O Leina`ala on an exciting journey through over a thousand years of rich tradition.  A well-renowned Hawaii musician Keola Worthington, shall sing and share stories from humorous or of Hawaii old and new, accompanied with the award winning gracious Hula maidens. The Show is located at center stage and open to the public. Every Monday and Thursday at 5:00 pm

Hula at Coconut Market Place

If you’re looking for free, lively and fun Hawaiian entertainment for your whole family, visit Coconut Marketplace in Kapaa for an authentic Hula Show every Wednesday at 5 p.m. and Saturday at 1 p.m.

Hula at Hyatt Regency Resort and Spa

On Saturday evenings at 6:00 pm, the Hyatt Regency puts on a hula show for its guests and visitors in the main lounge seating area.  The picturesque backdrop of the Pacific Ocean during sunset provides an astounding view of watching the hula live.  Dancers mesmerize its visitors with their beautiful garments and flawless movements.  The live music accompanied by skillful dancers provide an atmosphere that allows all to experience the special beauty of Kauai.   A perfect way to end your day, take a step back and enjoy the Hawaiian culture .  Watch the hula, enjoy cocktails and have dinner.

Hula at NTBG: South Side Visitors Center

Every Thursday from 2:00-2:45 pm the National Tropical Botanical Garden invites you to experience a traditional hula show by Kauai’s award winning Halau Ka Lei Mokihana O Leinaala.  The show highlights the wahi pane (sacred places) of Kauai with intriguing stories of our Hawaiian people, their connection to and dependence on plants both wild and cultivated.  Hula shows are free to attend and is a great opportunity to visit the gift shop and register for a tour at one of the nearby Allerton and McBryde Gardens.

  1. Poipu Shopping Village; Every Monday and Thursday at 5:00 pm
  2. Coconut Marketplace; Wednesdays at 5:00 pm and Saturdays at 1:00 pm
  3. Hyatt Regency: Saturdays at 6:00 pm
  4. NTBG: South Sides Visitors Center; Every Thursday from 2:00-2:45 pm

For Hula Lessons or Luau Recommendations: Connect with Kauai With Keiki

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Ninini Lighthouse

Ninini Lighthouse

Ninini Lighthouse is an 86 foot tall lighthouse that overlooks Nawiliwili Bay. Off the beaten path, Ninini Lighthouse provides breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean. Waves crashing against the cliffs, wildlife, and mountain views are part of the scenic visit.  Furthermore, this lighthouse is often secluded with very few visitor.



The Ninini Lighthouse was built in 1906 and was automated in 1953.  It is one of the first things you see when landing on the island of Kauai by airplane.  The lighthouse looks over Nawiliwili Harbor and Kalapaki Bay.  Moreover, this vantage point provides views of the northern entrance of Nawiliwili Bay.  


You may be able to see the barges that come into the harbor. Consequently, Nawiliwili Harbor provides almost all of Kauai’s imported goods.  When visiting Kauai, it is likely that you will use an item or two that came from these docks.


Ninini Lighthouse is located near the Marriott Resort and Hokuala Resort.  If you are heading to the lighthouse take the opportunity to check out the Marriott Beach Resort grounds as well as the Hokuala Resort grounds.  Many walk able paths are open to the public.  It is a great way to get some exercise and to enjoy the beautiful scenery.  If you want to go for a swim in the area, Kalapaki Beach is nearby.  Check out Kalapaki Beach on Things to Do: East side.


Ninini Lighthouse is great to visit in the late afternoon or if needing to kill some time before a flight.  Furthermore the area is great to watch airplanes descending onto the runway.  Airplanes fly low over the Ninini Lighthouse making it a great vantage point for airplane lovers.  See the image below of an airplane flying right over us!


The Ninini Lighthouse is free of charge and is accessible any time during the day. Access the lighthouse by driving through the Marriott and Hokuala Resort. After passing the Hokuala Golf Course Clubhouse, drive over the bridge.  Look for the Shoreline Access sign and turn left before the second bridge.  This will bring you to a road through the golf course to the accessible Shoreline Access.  Keep driving until you see the next posted sign that directs you to Ninini Lighthouse.  A short drive down the dirt road will take you to the lighthouse. In addition, you could also park at the Kalanipu’u resort and walk to Ninini Lighthouse. Google Maps offline mode will also get you to Ninini Lighthouse.








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Ke’e Beach

Ke’e Beach: The End of the Road

Ke’e Beach is located at the end of the road on Kauai’s North Shore.  Ke’e beach is a lifeguarded beach that has a reef protecting a lagoon for snorkeling during the summer months. However, during the winter months, the beach is not safe for keiki due to the large surf and ocean currents.  Furthermore, Ke’e beach is one of the most visited beach on Kauai.  Because of this, making an early start for this day trip is recommended.  


There are facilities such as restrooms and showers. However, there are no picnic areas and no self phone service.  In addition the nearest store for drinks and snacks is miles away.  Wainiha General Store is the last place to get ice cold drinks and snacks.  Therefore, it is recommended that you bring your own snacks and drinks.

Restroom and Showers

Gateway to the Na Pali Coast

Many people come to the area because it is a gateway to the Na Pali Coast. Furthermore, Ke’e beach is the furthest you can drive by car on the North Shore.  Making it a prime location to park your car. Ke’e beach is where the head of the famous 11-mile Kalalau Trail begins.



Besides the Kalalau Trail, the Hanakapiai Falls trail and shorter trails also start at the end of the road.  For four year olds and older, a short hike to the Coast Viewpoint (.5 mile) is something you can do.

Parking

Ke’e Beach, Hae’na and the North Shore was impacted by a severe flood in April 2018. As a result, the road to Ke’e Beach and the surrounding area (right past Hanalei) was restricted due to repairs and maintenance. Since then, a shuttle service has been established to help transport visitors to many popular destinations past Hanalei.  This will help preserve the beautiful landscape and limit traffic flow to the recovering areas impacted by the flood. In order to visit this area, you must book tickets for the shuttle in advance as most shuttles are booked two weeks out in advance.  Here is the link to the website.

https://www.hanaleiinitiative.org/the-shuttle

Shuttle services are provided at various locations where you can park and take the shuttle to your destination.

Make sure to make it back for the last shuttle that leaves at 5:00 pm.  

Another option to get to attractions, sites and beaches past Hanalei is to purchase a pass for entry and parking. Facilities with limited parking spaces and monitored entry, require parking permits that need to be purchased a week in advance as there are only a set number of dedicated parking stalls for visitors.  It is advised that visitors plan ahead if wanting to take a day trip to Ke’e Beach or hike the Hanakapiai or Kalalau Trail. You can get a permit two weeks in advance before heading to the area.

https://www.gohaena.com/

Beautiful and Scenic Drive

The drive is about 40 miles from Lihue and will take roughly an hour to drive.  Heading toward Hanalei town take Route 560.   Hanalei to Ke’e Beach is a nine mile trip one way.  In addition, you will drive over seven bridges on your way to Ke’e Beach. Local courtesy of letting 5-7 cars cross before switching directions is implemented.  Furthermore, the famous double bridge over the Wainiha River let’s you know that you are getting close.





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Maniniholo Dry Cave, Haena Beach Park

Maniniholo Dry Cave

Maniniholo Dry Cave and Haena Beach Park is a popular attraction for those visiting the North Shore of Kauai. This ancient site is located across from Ha’ena Beach Park, on highway 560.



Maniniholo Dry Cave is said to have formed naturally thousands of years ago.  The sea level was higher and the ocean once used to hit the base of the cliff. As a result, erosion from the waves formed the cave.  The sand was brought into Maniniholo Dry Cave during the 1957 tsunami. In addition, stones have been piled in the front of the cave by locals as well as native Hawaiians.  

Exploration

About 300 yards deep, with plenty of standing room, the cave is great for exploration.  The floor is covered by sand as well as large stones.  Furthermore, keiki love to explore the cave and run around.  Consequently, a flashlight is needed to go deeper into the cave. We used the one on our cell phone.


Hawaiian Culture and History

Maniniholo Cave and the surrounding Haena area has its importance in Hawaiian culture and history.  In Hawaiian legends, it is told that this dry cave was once used by menehune to escape danger. For that reason, the cave was used as a passage route to get from one side of the island to the other.

 Another Hawaiian legend says that this cave was named after Maniniholo, the head fisherman of the Menehune.  Maniniholo used it to catch many fish here at Ha’ena. On one account, after catching many fish, he left some of the catch under the cliff. The menehune then carried the rest of the fish to the island’s interior to other menehune.  However, when they returned to gather the rest of the fish, they saw an akua (supernatural beast/ spirit) who took the fish that they had left there.  In order to catch the supernatural beast, they decided to dig a cave and make a trap.  This cave is the remnants of the menehune work.  Other legends say that the menehune dug the cave looking for imps that stole their fish.


Parking and Information

Ke’e Beach, Hae’na and the North Shore was impacted by a severe flood in April 2018. As a result, the road to Ke’e Beach and the surrounding area (right past Hanalei) was restricted due to repairs and maintenance. Since then, a shuttle service has been established to help transport visitors to many popular destinations past Hanalei.  This will help preserve the beautiful landscape and limit traffic flow to the recovering areas impacted by the flood. In order to visit this area, you must book tickets for the shuttle in advance as most shuttles are booked two weeks out in advance.  Here is the link to the website.

https://www.hanaleiinitiative.org/the-shuttle

Shuttle services are provided at various locations where you can park and take the shuttle to your destination.

Make sure to make it back for the last shuttle that leaves at 5:00 pm.  

Another option to get to attractions, sites and beaches past Hanalei is to purchase a pass for entry and parking. Facilities with limited parking spaces and monitored entry, require parking permits that need to be purchased a week in advance as there are only a set number of dedicated parking stalls for visitors.  It is advised that visitors plan ahead if wanting to take a day trip to Ke’e Beach or hike the Hanakapiai or Kalalau Trail. You can get a permit two weeks in advance before heading to the area.

https://www.gohaena.com/

Haena Beach

During the winter months, the surf can be very high and beachgoers should heed caution. Inevitably, the beach will be closed by lifeguards when conditions are too rough.


The Maniniholo Dry cave is a great place to take a break from a long drive. As a result our boys get a chance to stretch their legs and run around.  They also get to explore one of Kauai’s natural wonders. After visiting the cave, they came up with so many stories.  This is where the Batman and Spiderman lives.  They also claimed to see blood on the rocks.  Whether adult or keiki, your imagination runs wild as you enter the cave.  Will the space cave in?  How was this cave formed?  What was the cave used for?  What’s in the darkness?  Are the Legends of the Evil Spirit true?  Maniniholo Dry Cave and Haena Beach Park is great for exploration and play with your keiki.




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