Hilo Rocks! Hilo Part II (April 4-6)

Aloha folks. I make my return to Hilo. Enjoy the adventure!

The first pic just shows that my flight was delayed. We didn't take flight till almost 45 mins later. Upon landing, I went to Manono Marketplace to get drinks, eventually hit my airbnb which was close by, and then back to the marketplace for ramen. Good ramen at Tetsumen. 

4/5

Isle Cafe

Kalapana

I actually drove around here. Lots of people actually building their homes on the dried lava. I wanted to do some photography but it does feel weird to take pics of homes so I respected people and their privacies for the most part. Although I couldn't say much for the first house since its close to the entrance. The roads get bumpier here so drive it slow. It's also one lane in some areas so be mindful. It does seem like some people come here simply to take a look. There are pictures of these online if you want a broader scope of how the area looks. Miles and miles of dried lava. 

Kehana black sand beach

Vista point

Somewhere along the drive

End of the road

Pretty much if you go further than Issac Hale Beach, the road ends. The roads in Kalapana are just filled with lava roads and rocks. At the end of the road, it's such a shame some people just had to drink and leave their broken beer bottles all over. It looks like you can hike it if you want but it probably just damage your shoes in the process.

Issac Hale Beach

there is no end of black sand beaches in the Kalapana area.

Somewhere around a hippie area in Kalapana.

Lava Tree monument

I remember being here back in 2010. There wasn't a paved trail and the area I recall was more murkier and full of mosquitoes. Now it's a nicely decorated trail and very presentable. 

Dimple Cheek Cafe

Sunset at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park - Thurston Lava Tube and overlook

It was a good experience. Finally got to check out the Thurston Lava tube after all this time. Its a quick tunnel hike. The overlook the park rangers are allowing you to see requires a 20-30 min walk to the overlook and another round of those minutes going back. Popular tourist attraction now no doubt. If you have the National Park annual pass, you can use it here. 

Hilo Burger joint

I figured why not?

4/6

Waipio Valley

Waipio Valley lookout is accessible to the public but the hike down to the valley is no longer permissible unless there is a local that lives down there that is willing to bring you there. Too much tourist damage to the roads and lands. Sad. Another black sand beach waiting for you down there. 

E Komo Mai Diner: Bar and Grill. 

Last breakfast in Hilo and return to Oahu. Pic of the car that brought me places. Not bad for a mid-size car. Smooth driving really. 

End story. Thank you for viewing. Have a nice day and thank you Jesus for another safe return to Hilo and back.