A few thoughts on Puhi and Princeville living........

Twenty one minutes. That's how long it takes to walk from my Puhi townhouse where I am house sitting to Home Depot. If I had kept going straight on Puhi Road instead of turning towards Kukui Grove Shopping Center, I probably could have walked to Kauai Community College in about the same time. You simply cannot beat this location for convenience. In fact, I was beginning to wonder what it would be like to live down here full time and give up my North Shore residence. The ease of getting around is both seductive and tempting and makes living here seem quite "doable."

But as I enter into my 5th day of Puhi living, I find that I am feeling restless, a little "hemmed in" and finally realized why. I cannot see the ocean! Granted, the mountains provide a beautiful backdrop but they do not offer the expansive feeling I get when looking out across the ocean. Plus, I miss the beaches (not that I have all that much time to take advantage of them) but I miss knowing they are nearby, nevertheless. Kalapaki Beach is the closest beach that I am aware of but that beach partially fronts the Marriott and Duke's Restaurant, making it difficult to find a private spot away from the crowds like I am accustomed to doing up North.

I guess those more familiar with this area would argue that Poipu is just a short distance away as are the beach of Kapaa, but let's face it, I'm spoiled. When you have Hanalei Bay and Bali Hai in your backyard, along with Anini, Rock Quarry, Secret's, Tunnels, and Kahiliwai Beaches all within minutes of one another, it's impossible not to be. And that is what I miss.

Driving around the North Shore as you go about your daily business you are treated to one panoramic view of the ocean after another, not to mention the mountains and their waterfalls. Did I forget the rainbows? It does rain more on the North Shore but it is also greener and a bit cooler than Kapaa and Lihue which is another thing I like about North Shore living.

Yes, I love the convenience but for me, the beauty of the North Shore overcomes the promise of daily Macy's and Walmart visits.....and this coming from someone who definitely likes to shop! Keep in mind this is just my personal preference and not a condemnation of in town living. I'll definitely be back to housesit anytime needed so I can enjoy the convenience once again but you'll see me happily back up North on Thursday.

Aloha Elaine

Elaine Schaefer (R, GRI, ABR)
Broker in Charge - Princeville Resort Office
Graduate, Realtor's Institute
Accredited Buyer's Representative
Top Producer 100% Club

RE/MAX Kauai
Princeville Resort Office
POB 223632
Princeville, HI 96722
cell: 808 639 2935
home fax: 1 808 440 4552
email:soldonkauai@yahoo.com
website: www.kauairealestatenow.com

......you can have your own piece of paradise
ask me how!