In 1958, our family bought this property at the southern tip of Kauai. In those days few tourists came to Kauai and our friends thought we had ventured too far off  the beaten path. Until they saw the property, known as Ka Lae Kiki. It was breathtaking!

Originally a three-acre site that hugged six hundred feet of pristine coastline with sweeping lawns, a coconut tree grove, majestic Banyan and Monkey pod trees, an orchid garden and a simple but elegant house and guesthouse, it became a paradise for our family.

We spent many summers on Kauai, at that time a completely unspoiled tropical secret with only one local hotel and rolling hills of bright green sugar cane sweeping in all directions toward the lush and dramatic mountains. Our Hawaiian friends welcomed us into their lives and our house became a focal point for many a memorable luau. We spoke pidgin and got sunburned and had unforgettable experiences that changed our lives. Our island friends took us surfing, wild boar hunting, to the secret beaches and mountain areas, all the while sharing with us the island's gift – the Aloha Spirit.

Things have changed somewhat on Kauai, but not as much as you might think. It is still the magical place it was then, with the same natural wonders and warm people to discover.

In 1982, hurricane winds and 40 foot waves toppled the original house. The ancient trees fell; the property was scraped of all life. It was a tragedy for the entire island and it changed the Kauai we had grown to know. As we contemplated our next move, another hurricane Iniki, hit Kauai in 1992 and again wiped out the southern shoreline.

But as sad as those natural disasters were, they couldn't rob Kauai of its beauty and spirit. And it could not deter our family from rebuilding Ka Lae Kiki to provide our families and friends with the gift of Aloha. The house is newer, and hopefully more “hurricane proof”. The soothing trade winds sill massage , the whales still breech, the surf still pounds , the ever present frogs are still ever present, and time at Ka Lae Kiki will still change you in unimaginable ways.

The unique setting makes special events - a family reunion, a honeymoon, or 50th honeymoon, - even more memorable. You'll never forget your time on Kauai, especially if you spend it at Ka Lae Kiki.