Local Favorites

Small Town Coffee in Kapaa – chosen by a reader as a Local Favorite.

Have a few must-sees on Kaua`i? Share them here in “Local Favorites.” We invite kama`aina to submit a list. It’s an anonymous column so that the writer can share candidly a few favorite things. This is a chance to plug a talented massage therapist, stylist, clothing designer or restaurateur. It can include an irresistible dessert, pupu or hike. You name it.

Here is what you do: Send a list of five to seven items, with a sentence for each, describing what you love about it. Provide good photos, even better. If chosen, you’ll receive a $25 restaurant gift certificate. Email pam@forKauaionline.com.

Kapahi Artist, John Howard, is painter, sculptor and t-shirt designer. He works in glow-in-the-dark paints and sells kookier animal inspired t-shirts –most notably ones with goats and frogs on them. They can be found at A. Ell Design in Kapa`a; 635-4964; or visit aelldesign.com.

Po`ipu Beach Park has a protected area for keiki and good snorkeling. This is the most reliable spot on the island for sunshine.

Small Town Coffee is funky, friendly and has rocking coffee. There’s great local art on the walls and they even have a tiny, well-stocked bookstore on the property. My favorite menu item is their tuna salad. The café is located on the north end of Kapa`a in the Kaua`i Products Fair, mauka side of the highway. Visit smalltowncoffee.com; 821-1604; open 5:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily.

Havaiki Oceanic and Tribal Art is part museum, part art gallery and part kitchen table; there’s always a friendly conversation happening in the foyer and a prolific collection of tribal bootie. There’s no place like it on Kaua`i; it’s a feast for the eyes and an education on Polynesian and Oceanic craftsmanship. The gallery is north of Hanalei Center, right behind Java Kai Coffee. Visit havaikiart.com; 826-7606.

Kim Murriera is a Kapahi art therapist, teacher and steward. She opens her art studio to local artists, teaches an eclectic array of art classes and offers a Waldorf Education to youth. Her creative juice is only surpassed by her generosity. Visit hawaiicat.org to see the school and studio.