Akaka Falls

Paia

Paia is quaint little hippie town on the way to Hana. There were interesting shops and restaurants.

Land of rainbows

Puuhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park

The statues were facing the sea, seemingly in introspection.

The Polynesians were expert boat builders. They were able to cross the rough Pacific ocean to reach Hawaii.

Introspection at the beach

Puuhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park, Big Island

Walking through the park during sunset was a soothing experience!

Black sand beach, Big Island

Big Island

I was happy to get away from Honolulu to the pristine Big Island. I landed at Hilo where the climate is cool and wet and feels like being in a tropical rainforest. It is interesting to see all the microclimates there. I believe it has 20 of the world's 21 microclimates. The other side of the big island (Kona side) is dry and shruby.

Waikiki beach, Honolulu

We saw the hula dance under the Banyan tree at Waikiki beach. The dance was mellow and graceful, however the beach was crowded and there were designer malls lining the beach. I felt like I needed to get away from all that. I spent most of my time at Honolulu around the convention center where the conference took place. Since I was taking time off later, I felt no conflict in being there!

My hawaii trip

Aloha from Hawaii. This is my first night at Maui. Having spent the previous week at Honolulu and Big Island, I landed today and drove around.