No need to worry about the traffic snarl you\u2019ll likely encounter journeying to Kapa\u2018a town, it never lasts long and the wait is well worth it. This east-side destination, where the majority of Kaua\u2018i\u2019s population resides, is almost always bustling with activity. It is a shopping hub and foodie\u2019s delight, while at the same time, home to enchanting shoreline vistas.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n
Steeped in history, ancient Hawaiians once lived throughout this historic community and cherished reef fishing along its coast. In fact, you\u2019ll likely find residents carrying on the tradition of their ancestors as you explore the area.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n
By the late 1800s, however, Kapa\u2018a was dominated by Makee Sugar Company, a business venture initiated by a group of individuals, which included King David Kal\u0101kaua. The sugar operation drove many people of various ethnicities to the island including Chinese, Portuguese, Japanese, and Filipino.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n
You\u2019ll find remnants of this cultural influx as you stroll through town, like the sprawling Hee Fat Building, which served as a former rice processing plant. Along the main highway where several buildings from this era still stand, you\u2019ll discover many eateries, as well as stores that sell lovely Kaua\u2018i-made treasures.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n
The town really lights up, however, during its Art Walk every first Saturday of the month from 5-9 p.m. All stores stay open late, and even more, food is offered along with plenty of entertainment.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n
Soaking in Mother Nature is also a must in Kapa\u2018a town. The Royal Coconut Coast, graced with trees of the same name, spans the entire east side. It is home to Ke Ala Hele Makalae or \u201cthe path that goes by the coast.\u201d Stroll or ride a rented bicycle along this passageway that stretches about nine miles from Wailua to Ahihi Point. You\u2019ll encounter panoramic ocean scenery, as well as witness native wildlife including monk seals and, during winter months, humpback whales.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n
Before leaving town, grab some shave ice or other local snack at one of the many food trucks that have proliferated here in recent years. Or, swing by the farmer\u2019s market held every Wednesday at 3 p.m. and pick up some locally grown tropical goodies. Whatever you do, make sure to take advantage of the many seaside indulgences that abound in this quaint beachside town.<\/p>\r\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
No need to worry about the traffic snarl you\u2019ll likely encounter journeying to Kapa\u2018a town, it never lasts long and the wait is well worth it. This east-side destination, where the majority of Kaua\u2018i\u2019s population resides, is almost always bustling with activity. It is a shopping hub and foodie\u2019s delight, while at the same time,…<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":109,"featured_media":119136,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[3311],"tags":[2459],"class_list":["post-118369","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-things-to-do-kauai","tag-shopping"],"yoast_head":"\n