Hello Friends and Family,

1982 - HI, Maui, Part 5

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Well, my time in Hana was drawing to a close. There was enough time for one last visit to Seven Pools. They were still as beautiful as before.


One of my favorite places in the Hana area is Waiʻānapanapa State Park. After you find a parking place there, gaze out over the ocean — not only is there the beautiful Pacific Ocean but also lava rock outcroppings that whip the ocean waves into a frenzy.

BTW, I noticed on the park website (click here) that reservations are now required for camping, lodging, and even for parking. Register before you go.


One of my favorite views — the waves which have been traveling hundreds of miles over open ocean, gaining height, and volume before crashing into the volcanic rock shoreline — with spray flying dozens of feet into the air. As I have mentioned before, you feel the impact, not just hear it.


Waiʻānapanapa State Park has a beautiful black sand beach which attracts many sunbathers as well as a few brave souls who want to tackle some waves. Please be careful.


The park also features a blowhole — basically a lava tube which drained its molten lava many years ago with an opening to the ocean right at sea level. Waves hit the mouth compressing the air in the tube, which together with the water from the wave, pushes up into any vertical opening — SWISH — water high into the air — you may get drenched.


Sometimes the waves crash on the rocks when you are not paying attention. Big mistake. Another drenching!


Not far from the park is Palapala Ho'omau Church. It was built in 1857 and still stands along Maui's lush coastline, famously known as the burial ground of prominent aviator, inventor, explorer, author and activist Charles Lindbergh.


Although access has been restricted in the past (due to vandalism) the church now welcomes visitors who wish to view Charles Lindbergh’s grave. They suggest grabbing lunch on the way and enjoying it in the adjoining park.


Lindbergh spent the last ten years of his life on Maui and was active in conservation efforts, particularly in Hawai’i. Here is Lindbergh's humble headstone, which quotes a biblical Psalm, “If I take the wings of the morning, and dwell in the uttermost parts of the sea…”


I do have to confess that I broke the rule laid down by the rental car company and drove on beyond Hana eventually arriving in Upcountry Maui (yes, the road was rough for a few miles leaving Hana but not bad after that). This is the view of the Big Island from a spot along that route.

And now on to Moloka’i!


Life is good.

Aloha,
B. David

P. S., All photos and text © B. David Cathell Photography, Inc. — www.bdavidcathell.com