Greetings from Kauai

My Ride: Rent a vehicle. It is the best way to get around this “Garden Isle”. My rental was a SUV, but convertible Mustangs are hot on the island as well. Estimated cost: $350 for 7 days; Split 3 ways between girlfriends. www.Hertz.com www.Budget.com

My Crib: Kauai Marriott Resort & Beach offered the best deal for the week. Garden views $299.00 per night for double beds, can sleep 4p. $75 a night per girl. www.Marriott.com Summer rates available.

Local Eats: CJ’s Steak & Seafood was a great find on our way back to our hotel from Princeville (Northshore). The restaurant has a great selection of steaks and fish. Located in Princeville Shopping Center. Website is presently unavailable. Ph: 808-826-6211 Where to Play: Na Pali Coast is the place to be. There is so much to do along this coast you will never get bored. You can start w/ a 5 1/2 hour catamaran coast tour, includes breakfast and lunch along with snorkeling. You can scuba dive for an add’l fee. Highly recommended. Guaranteed to see dolphins, sea turtles and beautiful waterfalls. Price per single girl $95.00. This tour had cute boys on the crew serving us Mai Tai’s and snacks. www.kauaiboats.com

Social Butterfly: DAY – Beaches, Beaches, Beaches are the way to go during the day. My fav: Lumaha’i Beach– one of the most photographed beaches in all Hawaii. Lumaha'i Beach starred in the film South Pacific. Behind the beach is a lava cliff adorned with lush tropical jungle. At the West End of the beach is a lovely lagoon where the Lumaha'i River empties to the Pacific Ocean and makes for great bodysurfing and boarding. All Hawaii beaches are open to the public and free so go crazy. Night – Luau’s are what Hawaii is all about. The Smith’s Family Garden Luau, located in Wailua is rated the islands best. Includes an Imu ceremony followed by a feast of island delicacies and an international dance revue. $$$$ Avg. price for a single girl $75…a little costly but worth it.