Testimonials
I don’t usually write reviews, but I felt very compelled to share my incredible solo trip experience to Kauai in January 2023.
I spent five days exploring the island, and reaching out to Jill for a few days of guided tours was the best decision I could have made.
Jill showed me some fantastic local spots, from the turtles on the beach to an unforgettable helicopter ride and a breathtaking hike in the mountains. It truly felt like I was seeing Kauai through the eyes of a local.
Since returning home, Jill and I have stayed in touch, and I’ve realized just how much her expertise enriched my trip. From the airport pickup to finding the best breakfast spots, every detail was handled with care and insight. This experience is one I will cherish forever. I highly recommend Jill if you’re looking for a memorable and authentic Kauai adventure. You won’t be disappointed!
I want to come back!!
Christi R, Davidson, NC
I was already excited to be travelling all the way from the UK to Hawaii and very curious about Kauai.
The experience was made all the more special and the trip of a lifetime by Jill! From the moment her wonderful smile greeted me at the airport, her welcome warmth and enjoyable spirit reflected the true Aloha of this beautiful isle.
Jill was a wealth of knowledge and ease, taking me to many local spots and unique experiences alongside the more well-known destinations.
I really felt I got to peel back the places through her insight, her contacts and she was really delightful company and gave me plenty of laughs. I very much appreciated this given I was travelling solo.
Jill knows how to make your journey unforgettable and can offer everything from hidden locations, the laid back charm of Hanalei to the history of Hanapepe and everything in between.
I very much look forward to returning!
Jo S., London, England
Our experience with Jill was filled with lovely memories of this Island. Jill was not only an experienced tour guide but more importantly a warm person that we would call a friend. She was like family and made our vacation filled with beautiful memories. She made us so welcome and loved.
Our sincere thank you, Jill
Evelyn H., Travelers Rest, SC, traveling with Fanny D., South Pasadena, CA and Fely D., South Pasadena, CA
I initially voted against having a tour guide to show us around Kauai because it is a small island, there is not much traffic, and there is an abundance of maps and reading materials to guide us. But my two companions opted for a tour guide and chose Jill.
I was wrong. Jill made the experience of Kauai vacation memorable. It is all worth having her as the tour guide. Her personality is like that of Rapunzel in Disney’s story of Tangled who showed us the beauty, the goodness, the beauty of Kauai. I have been trapped in California for three years and to be able to escape from my “prison” and see Kauai
especially the beauty of the Canyon of Waimea is so liberating-like seeing all the stars that illuminate the entire sky. All because of Jill who made it possible for us.
Fanny D., South Pasadena, CA
I first met Jill when I visit Kauai, HI, in Christmas 2022. I was there for a solo trip for the Christmas/New Years holiday. Let me begin by saying that Jill is a beautiful soul. She was recommended to me by staff at the resort where I stayed during my vacation. I’m so glad they did. I reached out to her prior to my arrival to arrange my airport pick-up and drop off, chat about things to do and to schedule several day tours with her. Jill has the perfect demeanor and is very knowledgeable about the island(s). She customized each my tours to ensure they exceeded any expectations I had. Some of the amazing things I did during my trip included:
-Koke’s State Park
-Viewed Kalalau Valley
-Viewed Napali Coastline
-Enjoyed watching goats walking along the cliffs
-Watching the waterfalls
-Kauai Safari Rum tour (phenomenal experience)
-Turtle Beach
-Catamaran whale/dolphin watching tour
-Happy hour at one of the local restaurants
-Beach cabana to relax
-Luau (my 1st)
-Viewing the New Years Fireworks from the beach
One of the things I also enjoyed was walking to several of the local restaurants to try new foods. I made the best of my Hawaii vacation and Jill helped elevate it to another level. I am very appreciative of her. I felt like she was a friend that I had known all of my life who was excited to show me the island she called home. Thank you, Jill!
Angela C., Washington, D.C.
I met Jill, many years ago while working in real estate where we were both living on the central coast of California, where I still reside. We were networking buddies which turned into a lifelong relationship/friendship. I was there when Jill, lost her husband Buz, in 2016. I assisted in the sale of their home and ended up having her as a roommate while she traveled Europe and began her healing journey!
I’ve had the pleasure of visiting on more than one occasion and witnessed firsthand her enthusiasm. Jill will make sure you have an unforgettable experience as she shares her love for Kauai. Her ability to connect authentically is refreshing and will simply make your stay more memorable.
I’ve been there in her worst sorrow and now see her living her best life with passion and full of JOY!!
Teri W., Grover Beach, CA
I have been traveling alone on business for over 40 years but over the last 35 years I have never traveled alone for leisure. I always traveled on vacation with my adoring husband who passed away suddenly last year. We had scheduled a trip to Kauai prior to his death and I know that we would not have wanted me to cancel it but I was also anxious as it would be the first vacation trip without him and alone.
As it was my first time in Kauai, I did want to see the island but did not want to do one of those large bus tours with other couples and families. Luckily I was introduced to Jill who does one on one tours on the island. Jill immediately made me feel comfortable and reassured me that traveling alone can be just as rewarding and even more so as you can do and see what you want to see rather than having to only hit the major tourist spots. As Jill has lived on the island for over 3 years and she knows the spots off the beaten path that show all the beauty of Kauai. Of course we hit the major tourist spots but having someone that can guide you to the hidden gems of the island was amazing. I enjoyed my trip so much that I am going back again this year!
Gayle Y., Reading, MA
I travel to Kauai for business quarterly for a minimum of two weeks. Obviously, I am there to work but have fallen in love with the “Garden Island” and the people that live the “Aloha Spirit”. It was nothing less short of karmic intervention that runs rampant on the isle that I met Jill, Eating dinner at the bar in Rum Fire @ the Sheraton in Poipu, after a long journey from Orlando, Fl. I had a choice of seats that evening and picked the one right next to her. We hit it off instantly! Jill is one of the easiest people in the world to talk to and I quickly connected to her passion and joy she’s now living. I feel like I have had this girlfriend my entire life since that day.
I am thrilled we stay in constant contact since that day. She has been able to help me out and utilize her services. Just on my last trip I was stranded at work and Jill was able to pick up my sister traveling in from a much-delayed flight arriving late in the evening. A great feeling to know you’re not stranded on a tiny island in the middle of the Pacific. We were able to spend time together and forge an even deeper connection.
So, if you’re coming to Kauai, reach out to her, you’ll find no one more charismatic (really), she’ll show and share her favorite hot spots as well as the local hidden gems. I would highly recommend utilizing her services treating yourself to an experience that you’ll cherish forever.
Gina R., Orlando, FL
Garden GORGEOUSNESS!!! I’m a world traveler, yet I was in sensory delight as the trade winds rustled through countless vivid tropical and fragrant blossoms in the open-air airport in Lihue, Kauai`a. This was the island I needed! Next, I heard, ‘Aloha, Sue!’…and it was Jill, and she is what EVERY traveler needs!
Instantly, Jill’s warmth and concern for your long flight comes through. She wants to know your hopes and dreams for your time here, so she can cover landmarks, make connections or stop for necessities. Sometimes you hear about Jill’s favorite friends, like that woman that travels alone with her guitar at the age of 83, for a week every year. Or kids on the spectrum, on overload from travel. And I feel instantly connected too. Call me anytime! Yet, I think, I’m going to rent a car.
My friend Gina has a dream job as a subcontractor and I am staying with her and her sister Patti in condo on Poipu Beach with gorgeous views. Gina works long hours. Patti and I are ready for stacked weekends of action and fun with Gina. ‘Isn’t Jill THE BEST!!’ says Patti, after one ride with the warm and wonderful Jill! We proceed to text and call Jill. First, as our personal concierge. Best helicopter excursion? Best Napali boat tour leaving from Port Allen? Best snorkeling beach? Best happy hour to see to parrots land in the palm trees? Next, we had Jill give us a ride to pick up an auto rental. Suddenly, she’s too FUN not to have over for dinner on the grill! Weekends filled up with events with live musicians and classic hula at Common Ground. Also, deep and spiritual talks. Slowly….I’m thinking, maybe I can take up guitar?! This island is just what I NEED.
Jill is not just a driver, a service, a ride. Jill at Journey Kaua`i is a connector. She is compassionate, curious, caring and sees the beauty in people of all ages and abilities. Her positive energy, like her island continue to lift me.
I am honored to call Jill a FRIEND.
Sue W., Orlando, FL
I first met Jill when she picked me up at the airport from a flight that was delayed more than 4 hours! My sister Gina was originally set to pick me up but for some unforeseen circumstances at work was unable to make it. Jill was waiting patiently late in the evening and in the rain. It was no worries, and no problem for her, true aloha spirit.
Her dedication to her clients is unparalleled providing wonderful, personalized touches. She is always available to assist with any questions or concerns providing prompt and reliable support before, during, and after your trip. She has a true love of the island, and it exudes from her hau’oli o ke ola (joy of life). Her passion for travel and emphasis to genuinely connect heart to heart with each individual she encounters is authentic and refreshing.
I wholeheartedly recommend Jill Hamblin to anyone seeking a hassle-free and extraordinary travel experience. With Jill’s expertise and personalized approach, you can trust that your next journey will be nothing short of remarkable!
Patti E., Madison, AL
Jill has a passion for Kauai, which shows in her work. I spent a week with her toward the end of the Covid period. We toured the island for that time. We did the “must do” Kauai items and spent some time hanging out at a local beach and bar. Her knowledge and appreciation of the island is vast.
But, the most essential thing Jill will add to your vacation is the personal touch. She is a warm, outgoing individual who will make you feel safe and tailor your time with her to your needs. Tell her where you want to go, and it is done. She will make your trip one of your most memorable travel experiences.
I have known Jill for over five years and consider her one of my best friends. After spending some time with her-you will too.
Aloha,
Lyn M., Los Osos, CA
Jill and I had an unlikely meeting! She came to Monterey, Ca. during the 2020 pandemic and did some quarantining with a dear mutual friend of ours. There was a lot of social distancing and outdoor gatherings at that time, and we became friends quickly in that intimate setting. She even ended up living with me for a few months at the end of that year which only deepened our friendship. I remember Jill was still in search of her next season in life after losing her husband in 2016. It proved to be much needed quiet time as she waited for the next chapter to reveal itself.
I was so happy to come visit my friend in Kauai!! What a big bold move that has suited her perfectly. She showed me the best vacation! Her knowledge of the island and sharing all the best spots adding her personal touches made everything just fall into place. From scenic road trips to snorkeling boat trips, river kayaking, quiet beach time and watching the turtles, Jill knows where to go. Best of all her infectious energy makes everyone smile and enjoy the ride every step of the way! Don’t hesitate to reach out to her and give yourself the time of your life.
Gayle S., Monterey, CA
I love traveling solo!! I can do whatever I want whenever I want:) !! It’s great to find someone you trust and enjoy to show you around. Jill was an amazing guide while we took in such breathtaking views taking beautiful pictures of me with incredible scenic backdrops. She went out of her way to stop at several points capturing unique angels and scenes. We stopped at the Kauai Coffee Co. did a self guided meandering tour while sipping our coffee and shopped in an old town that I would have never known about.
We enjoyed great conversations, so good in fact we met up for dinner & drinks at the beautiful Rum Fire restaurant. It felt like home away from home as she introduced me to Benji & Noel main staple bartenders that have been there for decades. Ohana, the aloha spirit of family was present and made my trip that much more memorable. I highly recommend connecting with Jill she’s a 5 star experience that will enhance your stay!!
Mel W., Boise, ID
