Big Island, Big Ed, Big Fun

As expected, it was great fun to have Carolyn and Sri in town. We hung out in Waikiki with them and then headed to the Big Island for less than 30 hours of adventure that easily could have filled three days.



Carolyn had some SF friends on the Big Island and our mutual Honolulu friends were there as well. In total, five couples of cool, fun, party people.

We stayed at the very nice and very elite Mauna Lani. Gorgeous location and a very special place, albeit completely silent. After cruising the beach, taking in the sunset, and meeting everyone for drinks, we headed for dinner. A true experience. These folks are foodies who don't skimp on anything. Dinner was delicious and the company was a treat. We had wine and laughs, get to know you conversations and shared desserts. I truly haven't had that much fun over dinner since one of our Mexican Nights at La Rondalla.

Bryan with the infamous Big Ed.

The next morning we were up and in the cars by 8am to embark on our kayak/snorkel adventure. We headed out to Kealakekua Bay which I had visited once before for the best snorkeling experience of my life. After loading up two cars with five kayaks, we made the trip down the hill.

Kayakers in their super fly Shell hats.

Kayaks loads with snorkel gear, sandwiches and beer, we paddled ourselves across the bay. Disappointed not to see any dolphins, I think we were all thrilled with the scenery and the beautiful blue water. We were also blessed with a good amount of cloud cover that kept us from getting over-heated or burned.




The snorkeling was amazing. We saw a huge ol' eel, lots of teeny tiny fish, the biggest trumpet fish I have ever seen, and some dark shadowy form that prompted Bryan to pull me into shallower water. We took some underwater pictures but have to wait until we finish the roll before I can post them here.

Once done with snorkeling we walked over to the memorial for Captain Cook who was killed at that bay by Hawaiians who had once worshiped him. And we checked out some of the lava rock beaches.

Back across the bay and kayaks unloaded, we headed into Kona for drinks and food. Bryan and I had a flight to catch that night to Carolyn and Sri hung out with us for another hour or so as we walked through town, got a burger, and wrapped up the evening with a shave ice. Yummm....


Such a terrific time!