Aloha a’e au i ku’u ‘åina, i ke kūkilakila O Wai’ale’ale I recall with fondness my homeland, where Wai’ale’ale stands majestically*
So begins the traditional mele in homage of the Garden Isle, beautiful Kauaʻi. Visit Nani Kauaʻi through the photographic lens of Leeward CCʻs own Professor ʻIokepa Badis.
Please click first image to view the photos as a slide show.
Kapu:
Kepa came across this sign at the heiau for Poliahu near the Waimea River. It’s said the heiau was built by menehune.
Kalalau Valley:
Located in the Northwestern side of Kaua`i, on the Na Pali Coast, Kalalau Valley is one of the most inaccessible areas in all of Hawai`i. The `ohi`a lehua tree, with its green and red leaves, grows wild along the cliffs.
Lo’i Kalo:
These ancient taro terraces at Limahuli are still in production today, creating a sustainable ahupua`a, where ‘uka and kai people work together, bartering kalo and fish.
E ʻAla e:
This photo of an upended driftwood log was taken at the Eastern most part of the island, where the sun rises.
Credits: *”Nani Kauaʻi I Ka Mālie” (Beautiful Kauaʻi in the Calm) music and lyrics by Lizzie Alohikea (1928); interview video by Rokki Midro
