Some Other Parks on the Big Island

So after Volcano National Park you might think the other parks would be more of the same. Nope we spent the day sightseeing the Saddle Road through the center of the island, the beaches of the Northwest and East.  Ron and Alan body surfed the waves at Hapuna White sands beach while Betsey and I sunned ourselves in sand and  sunshine.

From the beach we moved on to have lunch in the harbor town of Kawaihae.  Coconut shrimp, and a cold beer put us in the mood for more adventures so we visited Pu'ukohola Heiau, Pu'uhonua o Honaunau and Lapakahi State Historical Park, in North Kohala. We learned lots of Hawaiian history including a visit to one of only 3 locations where the Hawaiian flag can fly solo without the American flag. The other 2 are in Honolulu.

After seeing much of the Northwest Coast we headed East along the shoreline to visit Hawi and King Kameahmea who told us we must have refreshments across the street before moving on to

the Popola Valley.

A green visitor wanting a cool treat but he was too late.

From here we backtracked a bit before driving through the Waimea valley, the most lush grazing country filled with green rolling hills, teaming with fatted cattle, muscular graceful horses and sheep all with spectacular  views of the blue ocean as far as the eye could see.

It was a long but glorious day enjoying the sites and tastes of Hawaii the Big Island.