01-25-2006, 07:26 PM
My late wife and I went there at about this time in 2000, I believe. It was as described above: spectacular. The restaurants are amazing. The views are even better. Beware, and this is a big one, beware the currents. When they tell you not to swim, or if if you're unsure, DON'T. While we were there, a new wife lost her new husband to the strong currents. Tragic way to start a marriage.
My brother-in-law also had a terrible mishap when he took his new wife there; the tide had gone out and he scrambled down some rocks to explore the now-dry tidal pool area; suddenly, some huge waves rolled in, trapping him in his spot as it filled up around him. He had to swim for his life in his shorts, shirt and shoes, basically, as the waves crashed around him and drove him into/against, the large, sharp rocks, etc. Don't mean to harp on that, one just has to be careful, that's all.
We did do the helicopter ride and boat tour, they were both well worth it. (If I had to choose, I'd go with the helicopter.) Also did a lot of exploring on our own at the parks/canyons mentioned above. If you rent a car, make it a convertible. I'm glad we did this as the views driving up those mountains -- are in-cred-i-ble!
The guidebook mentioned above also sounds like a good bet. I think Fodor's (or the other big one) also now offer their online content for free. Safe travels, and enjoy!
SteveO
My brother-in-law also had a terrible mishap when he took his new wife there; the tide had gone out and he scrambled down some rocks to explore the now-dry tidal pool area; suddenly, some huge waves rolled in, trapping him in his spot as it filled up around him. He had to swim for his life in his shorts, shirt and shoes, basically, as the waves crashed around him and drove him into/against, the large, sharp rocks, etc. Don't mean to harp on that, one just has to be careful, that's all.
We did do the helicopter ride and boat tour, they were both well worth it. (If I had to choose, I'd go with the helicopter.) Also did a lot of exploring on our own at the parks/canyons mentioned above. If you rent a car, make it a convertible. I'm glad we did this as the views driving up those mountains -- are in-cred-i-ble!
The guidebook mentioned above also sounds like a good bet. I think Fodor's (or the other big one) also now offer their online content for free. Safe travels, and enjoy!
SteveO