Hotel Dinner

We didn’t want much, so we went to the grocery store and got a few random things. Anything that could be prepared in the microwave. There is an electric skillet and a few other appliances but we wanted it simple. Chicken wings (with a VERY vinegary taste) and mashed potatoes. A fun example of how we do things on Maule Family adventures.

Pu’ukohola Heiau

This large temple was built by King Kahmeamea. We were there after hours so the visitor center was closed. We went to explore the beach and found the path. 

Wood Show

We wandered into this shop that was advertising a Wood Show. There were some amazing pieces from all sort of locals woods. This is a Koa Acacia wood cabinet. 

Hiking = Ice Cream

The line was long at the little place in Kawaihae. Once we got to the front we understood why. This was the best ice cream of the trip so far. The strawberry was heavenly and the Kona coffee with fudge swirl was decadent. Sam opted for shaved ice with fruit flavors for something more refreshing. The Pina Colada ice was the best!

Navigational Heiau (temple)

The ancient Polynesians were pretty smart! We went in search of a set of rocks sticking up and aligned just right to point to the other Hawaiian islands and Tahiti. It’s amazing that they were able to accurately pinpoint these specs in the ocean! Anyhow- we eventually found the site and saw it from a distance (too far for a photo). In the process, we ended up at the Mahukona beach park where there was an old broken pier. The water was so clear that we could look down and see schools of these vibrant yellow fish! (Yellow Tang to be precise.)

This is from above. No snorkel necessary!

King Kamehameha

A statue in the park in Kapaau. It’s different to be in a US State with royal lineages. We have enjoyed the stories of conquests and uniting the islands.

The hike back up

Was definitely more challenging than the hike down!

He likes living in the edge!








The native sign. A few more modern ones have been added.

Cave Exploration

There was a cave at the far end of the beach so we went to check it out.

It was the perfect place for a cookie snack!

Black sand beach

The black sand on Pololu beach is super fine because the rough surf grinds down the lava rocks. Framed with sheer cliffs and lush vegetation it makes for a dramatic landscape.

A pretty little valley

The valley was pretty and very green. There was a horse grazing in the distance.

Down the trail

It’s a steep rocky downhill. A drop of 878 feet in just .6 miles! There are sheer cliffs and rough waters on this part of the island. This is the first of seven valleys and the most easily accessible. The views from the trail were amazing!

We made it to the bottom, not problem!

Like many places on the islands, this is a sacred spot for Hawaiians. The large black dunes are burial grounds.

Pololu Valley

We ventured to the northern tip of the island today. We went to the Pololu Valley Lookout and decided to brave the hike to the valley below.

Waimea Farmers Market

A nice treat for a Wednesday market. We got some apple bananas ( the ones we tried in Waikiki that were delicious), bagels and cookies. All sooo good!

The flowers were incredible!