I can now check off my photography bucket list, capturing the majesty of big surf waves in Hawaii (just kidding – I’m just adding it to my list of favorite spots to shoot waves).  Mahalo, Kauai, you don’t fail to impress with your peaceful nature, your lush landscape, and the gift of the ocean.  Every possible shade of blue is painted in wave after wave.  Capturing the majesty of big surf waves in Hawaii is always on my list when visiting the islands and this trip was no exception.  I walked away with an abundance of shots I can’t wait to share and will soon be adding them to the shop

I searched the web (as I do before any trip) for the best spots to shoot.  Hawaii in the winter offers some truly spectacular big surf waves.  I found a photographer, David Godwin, who gave veiled instructions on finding this hidden gem.  It took a bit of traversing… I started in the completely wrong direction, then hiked straight up the start of the Na Pali coast trail www.kalalautrail.com and soon realized that wasn’t it. (PSA – don’t hike the trail in flip-flops).  I was about to give up when my wandering eyes stumbled on a hidden path.  I followed it through the jungle, and after a bit, hung a right, climbed out onto some giant boulders, and sat in awe of the North shore of Kauai.  On this particular day, there was a huge swell and 19-foot waves – I hit the jackpot!  Mohalo!

These were very big surf waves, though not the kind one surfs on. There was no real beach to enter from (except for the one on the Na Pali trail, but carrying a board to reach that beach is probably not realistic or advised).  No, these big waves are pretty much just for watching and taking in the awe that the ocean produces. The shades of blue were stunning. Capturing the majesty of these big waves was riveting.

Studies say that watching the ocean and its waves can reduce blood pressure.  I’m pretty sure I was close to bottoming out – LOL.  Kauai is my very favorite island in Hawaii because of the slow, quiet pace.  One day I’ll get to Maui’s North shore during the winter for truly insane waves.  The Pe’ahi Challenge is on my photography bucket list. In the meantime, I can hopefully bring you some peace and relaxation through these images.  More to come!