Journey to tropical paradise – Island of Hawaii continues…
Day 6: We had a very relaxing day at the beach. Our resort was right on the beach which is an excellent beach for off shore snorkeling. We enjoyed stand up paddle boarding as well. In the afternoon we went to Hapuna Beach. This is the perfect big island beach for a classic “beach day”. The sand is white, the water is perfect, the surf is not heavy, the water stays shallow a long way out, easy to swim.
Day 7: Manini’owali Beach: This beach is scenic – Powdery white sand and crystal blue water! You can even snorkel and see fish near some of the rocks.
Early evening, we drove to Mauna Kea: The world class observatory!! With the dreams to count the stars and observe the faintest galaxies in the night sky, I headed up. The road was quite good up to the 9200 ft level. We arrived early at the visitor’s center and did some hiking and got back to the visitor’s center right on time for stargazing program. The program begins at 7:00 pm (check the website for more details) when telescopes are set up for viewing, supported by staff and volunteers. It is very cold up there, make sure you take very warm clothes.
Day 8: Pu’uhonua O Honaunau National Park: A relic from old world, dating back to 11th century, I had to visit “City of Refuge”, a window to precontact Polynesians. This sanctuary was the spiritual powerhouse of old world Hawaii.
The Painted Church: An unassuming church, hidden in the valley. A Belgian priest hand painted the church in early 20th century. It is stunning and rustic!
Hula: The language of the heart and the heartbeat of Hawaiian people. I had the privilege of enjoying an extraordinary evening, savoring every moment of this art form.
Day 9: This was our last full day on the island. We started our morning snorkeling and paddle boarding at the beach on the resort property.
Early afternoon we drove to Polulu Valley lookout: A view you will never forget. Absolutely stunning views of cliffs, valleys, crashing surf, beautiful trees and a secluded black sand beach.
Many nights were spent stargazing while lying in a hammock with a gentle hum from the ocean providing the background score.
Day 10: Time to say adios to one of my favorite places with the hope to go back soon!!
