Day 21: Last Beach Day

Our final full day was spent visiting Kohala and Kona coast beaches.  In the morning we drove north to find what the locals call A-Bay which has supposedly great snorkeling.  We couldn't find it but instead checked out the Mariott Resort.  These resorts are self-contained communities for vacationers.  The resort has 2 shopping centers (one even had a Macy's store), golf courses, condo's galore and the Mariott hotel on the beach.  People who stay there would never have to leave the resort.  Not our idea of a vacation.  The thrill is in exploring the wonders of the island not staying in an enclave.

We decided instead to visit Hapuna Beach which be briefly visited on Friday on the way back from the other side of the island.  The golden sand beach with gently rolling surf was heaven on earth.  After a swim we decided to catch some final rays.  Marilyn with a good tan decided to forgo lotion and got a burn.  I used only 15 times lotion and got a bit of a burn too.

We contributed to the burn by driving with the top down back for lunch at the condo.  Here are some shots from a lookout on the way.

Marilyn and her hot convertible

Dwight flashing twin shakka symbols

People make graffiti in the lava field using white stones.  Very creative.

After leftover lunch at the condo, (on the last day the food choices are limited) we set out for some snorkeling again at Kahuluu beach.  We are getting better at navigating lava rocks to get in and out.  We learned it is easier to carry the snorkel equipment in and then but it on.   The fish were amazing and we also saw a s,mall green sea turtle.  Being a Saturday there were many close collisions with other snorkelers.  The increased traffic and higher surf made the water murkier so the schools of fish were not as clear.

Our final dinner was at the old Kona Inn right on the water near the Kona pier.  This 20's era hotel has a open air dining room right on the ocean.  We watched the sun set for a final time in Kona and enjoyed a great meal.  All the ceiling fans were driven by pulleys since they predate electricity.  The tables had the rattan queen chairs with large fan backs.  We expected to Bogart and Bacall any second.  (For those of you born after 1960, they are actors from the 40's)

A walk along the sea wall and a stop for some 100% Kona coffee completed a perfect evening.  Now back to the condo to pack!