Step 1

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking pan.

Step 2

In a medium bowl, stir together the flour, sugar, baking soda and salt. Add the eggs, oil, pineapple and vanilla, mix until well blended. Pour into the prepared pan.

Step 3

Bake for 30 to 35 minutes in the preheated oven, until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

Step 4

To make the topping: In a small saucepan, combine 1/2 cup sugar, pecans, butter, evaporated milk, 1 teaspoon vanilla and 1 cup coconut. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens. Poke holes in the cake with a fork, then pour the warm mixture over the cake.