Makawehi Sand Dune Hike Hosted by Grand Hyatt Kauai

Learn about geology, plants and animals during a moderate hike from the luxury resort to an ancient Hawaiian heiau (sacred site). Participants meet at 8 a.m. at the Hyatt’s Seaview Terrace. Wear tennis or walking shoes, sunscreen, a hat, and bring drinking water.

From the Seaview Terrace, your guide leads the group through the magnificent tropical grounds of the resort to the beach at Keoneloa Bay, and then up along the Makawehi sandstone dunes. Guide David Burney from National Tropical Botanical Garden will point out native plants that are unique to that environment and explain their uses by native Hawaiians. Sea birds, including frigate birds and albatross, might be spotted; and Hawaiian monk seals are sometimes resting on the beach. About a mile down the beach, the group will stop at an ancient Hawaiian heiau, a sacred site. Its purpose and proper name are not known, but it is believed that it was a fishing heiau where fishermen thanked the gods and the ocean for their catches.

The round-trip walk takes about two hours, and it may be hot and humid, so people in good physical condition will enjoy it the most. You’ll gain a new understanding of and appreciation for this unique ecosystem and beautiful area.

Date: Monday, July 22nd, 2013
Time: 8:00 am

Admission: Free

Contact: (808) 742-1234

Location:
Hike departs from Seaview Terrace
Grand Hyatt Resort & Spa
1571 Poipu Road
Koloa Kauai, HI 96756

Driving Directions:
Parking at Hyatt. Wear walking shoes and sun protection; bring drinking water.
Directions from Google Maps