Friday, July 6, 2007

North Kohala Sightseeing


Those of you who know my mom probably know that she likes lighthouses. So, we've been looking for a decent lighthouse to show her on the Big Island. (Most are considered "minor lights" and are too small to be of any real viewing interest, especially if you have to hike or drive a 4WD road to get to them. We learned this from the Lighthouse People, a couple that has photographed every lighthouse in the United States.)

After much searching, we found Kauhola Point Lighthouse on the north end of Hawai'i. To get to it required a trip down a 4WD road, something Evelyn had never done before. In fact, she was ready to tell Steve that he could turn around and not bother--and that was on the still-paved part of the road. Once we got onto a narrow, rutted portion, I'm sure she thought we had all lost our minds. Soon, though, the lighthouse came into view and the bumpy ride was worth it.


The point was very windy, even huddled in the doorway of the (locked) lighthouse. So, we checked it out for a bit, and then bumped our way back out. This side of the island has been affected a great deal by erosion, both wind and water.


We drove on to Pololu Valley Lookout, which is at the end of the road. (Interesting fact: there are two 28-mile markers on this route. I like to think they decided it didn't make economic sense to replace the last mile marker, since the road ended there anyway. Who knows what the truth is?!) There was a hike down to the shoreline, but it didn't seem like a good idea with two tired kids in the late afternoon.

This valley reminded me of Waipi'o Valley (just a few miles away, but a long drive to get to it), but not quite as pretty.

On our way back to the house, we stopped in Waimea to eat at one of our newfound island favorites--Tako Taco. Yum! We got home right before sunset, but the boys wanted to finish watching Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory (the Gene Wilder version) and, honestly, I forgot! (Oh my, is that a sign I've been here too long? How sad.)

I promise to get a few more sunset shots before we head home. Scout (leader)'s honor.

No comments: