23-26 Nov - Thanksgiving in Kona

With our stuff all packed up we decided to make our Thanksgiving in Kona.  We've been to the Big Island twice, but both times to the Hilo (eastern) side.  Kona is on the western side and distinctive in scenery and attractions. 

We stayed at the Hilton Wikoloa, a well known resort about 20 miles north of Kailua-Kona.

First day was spent around the resort, swimming in the lagoon and then eating at the Thanksgiving Buffet which was actually really good and had a nice blend of Hawaiian and traditional Thanksgiving Fare.  Probably last time I'll eat ahi poke for this meal.

The view from Kona looking up to the resort area.  Lava fields and very windy.  This is the bike course of the Hawaii Ironman.  Mona Kea and its summit observatories were clearly visible just off the right.  

 

It doesn't take much to get us a bit "resorted out" so we split for the famous Black Sand beaches on the southern shores.  The drive down on the Hawaii Belt Road was spectacular and not at all what we expected - about 1,000 ft in elevation and through dense forests, coffee plantations and then old lava flows.  Absolutely stunning vistas over virgin land.  We stopped at the southernmost town in the US, Naalehu, and spent some time on the beaches. 

 Zach in his Koa pose

 We had an evening flight back to Honolulu on our last day so we did a bit of exploring before heading to the airport.  There was an ancient petroglyph field right near the resort so we checked it out.  The petroglyphs are common decorations all around the islands, but it was interesting to see some originals. 

Further down the road we stopped at Kealakekua Bay.  This spot is notable in Hawaiian history and not just because Captain Cook was killed on its shore.  It was a beautiful spot with crystal clear water, lots of coral and is apparently a spinner dolphin nursery.  If we had to do over again we would make a point of going sea kayaking and snorkeling here.  

Looking north along the bay

View from above.  The small white monument along the far shore is the believed location of Captain Cook's demise.  Only accessible by trail or water.

Some views from the Hawaii Belt Road looking south.  The southernmost point in the US is in the far distance.

Headed home

Great trip.  We can't say enough good things about the Big Island.  It is amazing.  I also got lots of great video on this trip, including all our wildlife encounters - we saw more Honu in three days here than 2 1/2 years in Oahu and also had a close encounter with a Monk Seal.  Movie down the road, maybe.