kuaui

The ultimate escape for the active surfer is Kauai. Since the natives first mastered the shores, surfing has become an exhilarating rite of passage. Contemporaries such as Andy Irons, Bruce Irons, Keala Kennely, Laird Hamilton, Sena Seramur, Dustin Barca all contributed to Kauai's legendary surf community. Kauai has many surf spots on the island, most of which remain a secret. The more well-know waves are Hanalei Bay, Cannons and Tunnels. Surfing in Kauai means summer breaks in the south and winter breaks in the north. Generally surfing is best on the North Shore, and the south coast in summer, where popular Po'ipu Beach crowds up. Pakalas, near Waimea is the Westside's hottest break. Transitional swells happen on the Eastside, when surfers hit Kealia Beach or Wailua Bay behind the Kaoa'a Sands Hotel. Surfing conditions at the Po'ipu beaches are usually gentler than on the other side of the island, but if you're qualified, you might want to take on challenging North Shore beaches like Hanalei. Keep in mind that conditions can be extremely dangerous during the winter months (experts only.) If you happen to find yourself in Kauai hankering to ride the waves on North Shore, Hanalei Bay or Poi'pu, and have never ...

Have a thirst for more urban island experience? Quench it in Honululu's Chinatown. More than souvenirs and dive bars, Honululu's Chinatown has become the city diva's inland retreat. Here are a few suggestions to quenching your urban thirst on the island. Rent scooters and get lost in Honululu's Chinatown. If you're hankering for something a dash more urbane in your island experience, then hit Thirtyninehotel, a gallery by day. Grab something pretty to sip on, like a colored cocktail called Hawaiian Punch and enjoy the scene. Continuing the art theme, head across town to Arts at Marks Garage, a gallery com performance space that exhibits work by leading local artisans. Keep your healthy buzz going and buy a few gifts for your favorite people back home. Lei, straw bags, and body-hugging silk cheongsams can be found at Cindy's and across the street at Lin's. This diva's tip of the day: For $2.00, catch the Bus from Ala Moana Center and discover Indigo at Nuuanu St. and enjoy a twilight aperitif.