The AP reports that Hanalei Bay on the Hawaiian island of Kauai was ranked as the best beach in the world by “Dr. Beach,” Stephen P. Leatherman. (HT: Nathan Roberts.) Leatherman, director of Florida International University’s Laboratory for Coastal Research, said, “The sheer beauty of Hanalei Bay is breathtaking. It’s really an idyllic setting.”

No kidding. The north shore of Kauai, including Hanalei, is one of my favorite places in the world. So, in honor of its recent recognition, here are some photos of the Hanalei area.
First, Hanalei Bay (from the condos where I was staying, near the St. Regis Hotel).

Next, a quaint church in Hanalei. Linda and I attended worship there. The service was God-glorifying and the theology quite biblical.

Then, the view from a coffee bar in Hanalei. Yes, they had Internet, and cats. There are thousands of feral (wild) cats on Kauai, some of which are friendly.

Finally, a view from a few miles west of Hanalei. This is Makana Peak, though it’s best known as “Bali Hai” from its role in the movie South Pacific.