We are back on the island of Ohau after spending a few days on the big island. The Big Island of Hawaii just might be the prettiest place on earth. The big island is more than twice the size of all the other islands put together and with only 1/10 of the population of all the islands. It is a 5 hour drive to go all the way around. There are two 13,000' mountains and a smaller active volcanic mountain.
We stayed in Volcanos National Park. At night we were able to see the lava flow on the side of the mountain and the steam plume as the lava hit the ocean. The lava creates beautiful black sand beaches, where rare green sea turtles bask in the sun. The island also has white sand beaches and green sand beaches.
The sky is clearer here than any place on earth and on Mauna Kea mountain there are observatories and telescopes. We didn't go that high, you need a 4-wheel drive to drive to the very top of the mountain. In the park, away from any town lights, the sky is crystal clear and the number of visible stars is amazing.
Some of the best diving and snorkling is around this island. Some are fortunate enough to see dolphins, octopi, sea turtles, and whales while snorkling or diving. We saw brightly colored coral and lots of bright, tropical fish. The water is so clear in places, you can see down to the bottom in 200' water.
Along the east coast are lush rainforests with numerous waterfalls. Rainbows are almost a daily occurence. The flowers are bright and beautiful.
We will spend the next couple of days on Waikiki Beach. We will update again soon.
