Kona Big Island

Tuesday, October 31, 2023
Kailua-Kona, Hawaii, United States
Kona, often referring to the western side of the Big Island of Hawaii, is known for its unique culture, stunning landscapes, and outdoor activities. Kona is located on the western coast of the Big Island of Hawaii, the largest of the Hawaiian Islands.Kona hosts the annual Ironman World Championship, one of the most prestigious and challenging triathlon events in the world.
We had our one and only ship tour today, due to a short time frame here. The tour started with the view looking up at the massive Hulalalai Volcano from the ship. Our first stop was Kaloko Honokohau National Historical Park. Following our guide on a short hike to see the ancient heiau, sacred temples and petroglyphs carved by the native Hawaiians who once lived here. Further on  to the sandy shore where ancient Hawaiians stored their stocks of fish in traps and ponds. We saw Hawaiian green sea turtles (honu) in the water close to shore and a recent reconstruction of the old beach man cave hut. 
Next stop was the famous Kona Coffee Farm. Kona coffee is a unique and high quality coffee variety. We had a coffee tour including a run down on the harvest and production at the local farm. It has amazing views down the volcano, looking down to the ship. 
Further up the volcano was the  tropical cloud forest. Our lady  guide walked us through the locally planted  70 acre Cloud Forest Sanctuary. Walking under a canopy of 30 foot tall tree ferns, ohia trees and bamboo, learning  about the tropical flora, birds and the endangered cloud forest. With layers of volcanic  rock the soil lacked any depth for any deep root growth, but we were amazed by this forest.
After the tour with only a few hours left, we explored the local coastline with local shops and bars.  We found a nice bar with a local lager beer and cool sea breeze. Today was the 31st of October and it was Halloween. I had always wanted to know what it would be like to be in America on Halloween. The locals and the ship were having parties, pumpkin cutting competitions, dress ups, lots of hype and festivities. In Australia it was the 1st of November, so Mark was having the first day of his 2 day birthday celebration, a once in a life time experience and lots of fun. The staff on the ship were so kind, with cakes, drinks, singing  and they decorated our room. On Friday we will be crossing the international date line and loosing a day. On Sunday we cross the Equator. The hottest time we will have on the ship, but great for swimming.
Our itinerary has now changed and we are heading to Christmas Island.
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Comments

Cas
2023-11-03

Fabulous photos-enjoy xxoo

jan
2023-11-05

stunning pictures, im sure you will come back with a fabulous tan.

2025-02-11

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