The temple in Kona Hawaii. It is so pristine and beautiful. It was closed the day we were there. It is only open a few days a week. I was so amazed at all the unusual flowers we saw on the temple grounds and else where. I wish I knew the names of each of them but I don't. Just enjoy.
One of the most memorable places we visited was Hilton Waikoloa Village Resort. It is hundreds of acres, all immaculately groomed and breath taking. Included are many swimming pools, a dolphin pen where you could sign up to play with dolphins, hundreds of pieces of art from all over the world, spectacular viewing areas of the coast and ocean. Because it is so huge they have a tram that runs on rails and a canal with boats to take you around - all free of any charge even if you are not a registered guest.
Black Sand Beach and sea turtles - we saw the turtles but they did not come up on the beach despite all my prayers.
Our Bed and Breakfast in Hilo had a 120 foot fall in the backyard. It was spectacular and we could enjoy it from the balcony.
It was also surrounded with thousands of acres of macadamia orchards.There is a beautiful four mile scenic drive north of Hilo. As we drove it I kept thinking this can't be real it is way to awesome. The trees and vines went on and up forever, flowers were everywhere. In the middle of the four miles is a Botanical Gardens. We spent almost three hours in the gardens ohhing and ahhhing :) Unfortunately the pictures don't come close to capturing the beauty of the place.
On the last day we took a ride on a helicopter in order to get a good look at the Volcanoes and the lava flow fields. They talked us into doing it with the doors offs so it was a bit scary for Marvin who was sitting with one cheek on the seat and the rest of him over the skids.
This is the steam that comes out as the hot lava flows into the ocean.
We didn't see many surfer's but on the last day we saw these three making us feel like we really were in Hawaii. :-)
Well that is it for Hawaii. Next week I am off to Detroit. Life is oh so good.
