Hawaii : Day 11 - Heading Home

We packed up our things and took one last stroll, this time at the Mauna Lani Bay, we looked at the Kalahuipuaa Fish Ponds and strolled over to the hotel and rested on some hammocks. What a blessing it was to be able to enjoy Hawaii with Rachel, Gabbi, Olivia and Seth and visit all the "secret spots" of this island. To incorporate sightseeing, food, and lots of exercise and activity... we were always on the go! It was a vacation we will never ever forget.

Hawaii : Day 10, Part 2 - Hapuna Beach

The beaches in Hawaii have spoiled us forever. The beaches on the Big Island are so varied: black sand, white sand, waves, calm, different animal life... but generally the temperature of the water itself is much warmer than in California. Prerequisites for my type of beach: smooth sand, clear calm waters, warm temperature, preferably not too crowded. After lunch and shaved ice, we went to Hapuna Beach once again. In the evening the kids watched the sequel to the original Lilo and Stitch.

Hawaii : Day 10, Part 1 - Beach 69

Our last full day in Hawaii, could it be? We decided to go to two of the three beaches we went to the previous day. We started with Beach 69, with some boogie boarding and refreshing Hawaiian Sun sodas. We also went to the other side of the beach, which can't be spotted right away, we had to cross some large driftwood and rocky paths. We found a popular rope swing and did a bit more extensive snorkeling.

Hawaii : Day 9, Part 3 - 3 Beaches, 1 Day

Hapuna Beach was the only one that had a parking fee, and they seemed apologetic for charging us $5. So different from Southern California! By this time the kids were accustomed to bringing the gear, including boogie boards, swim masks and snorkels, umbrellas and beach towels from the parking to the shore. No complaints! Hapuna Beach reminded me a lot of my favorite, Mauna Kea, long stretch of ocean and calm waters. It was a nice one to end the day with.