From “Hana Hou” the magazine of Hawaiian Airlines, “Best of the Islands: KAUA’I”:
ADVENTURE
The Octopus’ Garden
Kaua’i’s Na Pali Coast is justifiably famous for its epic vistas, but below the surface, there’s not much to see: The winter surf pounds this famous coastline, churning up sand and laying waste to the reef. So if you’re all about snorkeling, Kaua’i’s south shore is a far batter bet. Protected from the surf, the south shore’s reefs are healthy and thriving and provide a home for some 200 or so indigenous Hawaiian marine species. Kauai Sea Rider Adventures has guests suited up and in the ocean within minutes of leaving Po’ipu’s Kukui’ula Harbor aboard a 24-foot, rigid hull inflatable boat. “We spend more time in the water than on the boat,” says company head Captain Tara. What’s more, the locally owned and operated Kauai Sea Rider Adventures employs marine naturalists who guide snorkelers around the reef, pointing out Kaua’i’s unique marine life. Look for the white-spotted pufferfish and devil scorpion fish. To contact Kauai Sea Rider Adventures, call (808) 332-7238, or visit www.kauaisearider.com.
Hi Captain Tara,
We wanted to thank you again for the three great adventures that we had with you while we were in Kauai two weeks ago. We were particularly pleased when we checked the parking lot on Saturday the 19th on our way to the gardens down the road to see your truck with an empty trailer - obviously you got things running again! After touring the gardens on Saturday morning we drove our little Chevy rental car as far as we could north of Shipwreck beach on roads that had potholes bigger that the car tires, and walked the beaches and cliffs there - glorious! We imagined that we were not too far from where we snorkeled the day before. We were also quite fortunate to see seals sunning themselves on the beach while we had a picnic. Next trip we rent a jeep though.
Early Sunday morning, the 20th, we were driving to the airport in Lihue when we received a call from home that Janet's mother had a stroke the night before so instead of spending last week on Oahu, we flew home to wonderful 15 degree below zero Minnesota weather! Janet's mom (83yo) survived her stroke but will not be able to go home to the townhouse that she and her 87 yo husband have been living in. She is rehabbing in a nursing home and will likely need some assisted living as she is very weak on one side. As frustrating as these things are, we are reminded of how blessed we are with our good health and the ablility to have the great adventures we had with you and the Zodiac.
Attached are a couple of pictures of our adventure. I would recommend that you think about using the one's with you (or more professional versions) in your materials because you and your knowledge and personality are a close second to God's marvelous creations when it comes to star appeal on your trips. If you don't like that idea think about the green ecotouring picture - popular in today's world plus it will save you gas costs.
We are amazed and impressed with however you manage to pull it all together with your business and household and we look forward to future visits and adventures. Thanks again!!
Paul and Janet Tolzmann
23 Apr 2007
“That day was the highlight of our Hawaii trip -- we will remember that experience for a long time. Thank you for such an exciting, fun day! Thank you for your knowledge, your wisdom, your patience (especially with me), your guidance and enthusiasm. The gourmet picnic was great, too. We look forward to seeing you again next year! THANK YOU SO MUCH!”-Patricia and Roger Olson and family
“Though it was our first time ever snorkeling, you made us feel like pros in no time. We had an awesome day and we are still amazed at the whole experience. I can't wait to tell everyone I was in arms reach to a green sea turtle and how beautiful the fish were. You've opened our eyes to the underwater world we usually miss out on.
Mahalo!!!”-Jeff and Christine Dey
Dear Tara,
Evan and I went out with
you last Thursday (Feb. 15) and we just want to thank you SO much
for a great experience. We loved your zodiac and all the knowledge
you shared with us. The dolphins within arms' reach, the beautiful
fish and the "flying" turtles were incredible.
We will come back to
Kauai again and if you're still taking people out, we'll book at
least a couple trips with you during our next stay!
We'd love to see the
photos you took of our trip. Is there a URL or link to see them?
Again, with many thanks
and best regards,
Jennifer
“… back in the frozen Midwest and missing Kauai greatly! We are the family Halsmer with Tim and Shari (Dad and Mom), Jackson, Spencer and our daughter, Kennedy.
The kids had a marvelous time, especially Spencer. You may or may not have realized at the time that Spencer is kind of a special guy. He has high-functioning autism which can often lead to real anxiety and real difficulties in new and/or very stimulating situations. We want to thank you and compliment you on how well you directed him and made him comfortable and able to really enjoy himself.”- Sincerely, Tim and Shari Halsmer
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