IMPORTANT NOTE: Cache ratings are subjective and just a guideline. It is the responsibility of every cacher to know their abilities and limitations. This may mean having to decide to turn back when conditions become unfavorable. Better to log a "not found" then to get into trouble. Cache seekers assume all risks and responsibilities involved in seeking this cache.
Welcome to Nawiliwili harbor! Kauai's official harbor since the breakwater was build in 1921 financed by sugar baron George Wilcox. Nawiliwili means, “The Wiliwili trees” which used to line the harbor. The concrete lighthouse at Nanini Point, seen in the distance to the right, was built in 1932 and cost approximately $48K. The lighthouse was automated in 1953, no longer needing a live-in lighthouse attendant. Also visible from the cache, if you look straight down the breakwater, the smaller light tower at hole 16 of the Kauai Lagoons golf course. And neighboring Kalapaki bay to the left, the location of the Marriott Hotel. The harbor is the home to the U.S. Coast Guard, and the Nawiliwili Yacht Club*. The yacht club conducts yacht races on most Thursdays during the season from February until the Halloween race in which the crews sail in costume! The races start at 5 pm and are best viewed from the jetty at coordinates N21° 57.185 W159° 21.164. Visit the club's website for all the latest scuttlebutt at www.nawiliwiliyachtclub.org.
Potential Dangers
This cache is clearly not for everyone! Notice the trail rating of 5! You will need a boat, SUP, or other means to cross water. Swimming not recommended due to the distance involved, winds, and frequent boat traffic. There is no safe way to reach the cache by land alone. Use the buddy system and geocache with another person for safety. Do not attempt if you do not know how to swim and wear a life jacket at all times when attempting this cache. Do not attempt this cache on an SUP if the winds are blowing hard. Kauai weather and winds can change rapidly. Be prepared for conditions worse that the ones you observe. Be prepared to turn back if needed. Be aware of other boat traffic at all times and always adhere to navigation rules while in the harbor. Watch for anchored boats, and mooring buoys. Stay away from the entrance of the bay, and use caution when entering and leaving the small boat harbor. Choose safety first with all of your decisions
Getting There
There is more than one possible start location. The following describes starting at the harbor. See the logs for other ideas. The harbor parking area is at N21° 57.035 W159° 21.558. There is a kayak rental shack on the left, and the yacht club on the right as you enter the harbor area. The yacht docks at the harbor are private, please stay out. Depending what type of transportation you use, will depend where you enter the water. You want to head to a small dock on the breakwater at coordinates N21° 56.916 W159° 21.070. The depth at the dock is shallow, maybe 2 feet. It is a good idea to check all these coordinates online before going out, and plan your trip well. Happy caching!
* This cache is in no way affiliated with the Nawiliwili Yacht Club
Seek all my caches:
For a nice walk: Lihue’s Secret Scrubland Trails
For a moderate adventure: Weeping Pines of Kalepa
For an extreme quest: Giant's Right Ear
For an insane water expedition: Nawiliwili Scuttlebutt