Beaches

We've only been to 2 spots so far, but they are so different compared to east coast beaches! More diversity to come as we travel to other beaches next week.

These first 5 images are from Pu'uhonua, or "Place of Refuge," which is a national historic park less than 5 miles from our farm. If an ancient Hawaiian broke kapu, or sacred law, they could be put to death. If they reached this safe zone, however, a ritual would be performed where they were absolved of their crime and could return to society. Its a real life game of tag with a base where you can't be touched.

Side note: Look at the horizon in the picture below. It's hazy because of the sulfur dioxide from the active volcano Kilauea. They call it "vog"- volcanic smog.

 These sea urchins are absolutely everywhere. These small ones are in the tidal pools, and in the deep water they are a hundred times bigger and spikier.

The next two photos are from the beach right next to the Place of Refuge. It's called 2-Step Beach because the lava actually forms steps into the water (2 steps, if you can believe it), making an easy entrance for snorkelers and divers.

We saw this guy washed into a tidal pool before even entering the water to snorkel!

Finally, another beautiful sunset from the lanai (porch) at our farm.