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Hawaii – From Whale Watching to Summiting a Volcano

Article & Photography by Alfred Junco

Hawaii is a bliss location that never seems to escape the bucket list of any traveler. Recognized for its pristine national parks and laid pack culture Hawaii is an essential stop, and I wanted to make sure I reaped all of its benefits. On my first trip to Hawaii it was of great importance to that I immersed myself in Hawaiian culture and got a true sense of everyday life for the island people. My partner and I decided the best way to achieve this was to utilize Airbnb properties, that way we could stay in a variety of locations and have more organic interactions with the locals.

We were gratefully offered an opportunity by Body Glove Hawaii to snorkel, and go dolphin and whale watching followed by a dinner cruise. The Captains were very involved and supportive. Due to water conditions we snorkeled in a different location, the water was clear and we got to see exactly what we came for the sights of fishes. We also got to experience a mother and baby whale emerge from the water, which was as equally as breath taking an experience. Later on the cruise we got to share a buffet dinner with a great variety of foods.

On our fourth day we jumped at the chance to experience surfing lessons all thanks to Kahala’u Bay. Our instructors Ben and Isha were an energetic pair who were both helpful and patient as we learned our way on a surf board. By the end I am proud to say I was able to catch a wave or two. The same day we had an excursion with Fair Wind guided tours where we snorkeled at Captain Cook.

An experience I will not soon forget was our Hawaii Grand Circle Island Tour offered by Roberts Hawaii. This consisted of a full day getting to experience and educate ourselves on the many wonders of Hawaii. Stops included a nut factory, bakery shop, and among my favorite a visit to Rainbow Falls.

One of our last adventures included a four mile walk into the Volcano national park where we got to see flowing lava for ourselves among the many other inactive volcanoes available to see on site.

On our last day before departing Hawaii we experienced the food of the Lava Lava Beach Club which offered a variety of local dishes as well as comfort fast foods. The Lava Lava Beach Club on the other hand was a charming change of pace as it offers seating just by the beach.

In summary, the island of Hawaii is a vast sanctuary I truly wish I could of have explored further. I will be sure to visit again soon.

Mahalo kakou.