Hawaii - Day 2

This morning dawned with me enjoying the quiet. Still waking around 4 am, but then, I often wake soon after that at home. 

Larry's brother joined us last night for dinner. We went to a local restaurant up the coast a bit, Plantation Bar and Grill. The three of us shared a full rack of ribs, garlic potatoes and slaw. They were the best ribs I've ever had, just fell off the bone.  Don stayed overnight with us at the resort, as he planned to join us on our excursion today. The original plan had us leaving early, but the alternate ride involved a schedule change and a relaxed morning here onsite. After coffee and my healthy shake for breakfast, all of us but Larry took a walk along the beach. He's not feeling the greatest. Don thinks it's related to the "vog"...volcanic smog. Fran and I can feel it in our lungs as well. 

We saw a young sea turtle already sunning itself along the shore. Mauna Lani acts as a nursery for various species. There are many little inlets and ponds surrounding the hotel. Yesterday they released some baby hammerhead sharks into one area so we got to see them. We saw a Moray eel peeking out of the rock. There are many small sea turtles in the various ponds. Talking to one of the staff we learned that all their nursery turtles are released into the ocean each year on July 4, "independence day," with a huge celebration complete with fireworks. 

Late morning six of us headed north. Steve stayed back with Lucas who is too young for the horseback riding. We had an early lunch at Merriman's Restaurant located in Kamuela and offering Hawaii regional cuisine using fresh local produce and fresh catch seafood. 

From there we drove to Kahua Ranch at Kohala north of Waimea. This is a working ranch of 8000 acres up in the grasslands 3500 to 4000 feet above sea level. Our ride took us through the grazing pastures up to the higher elevation, a ride of about one and a half hours. Yes, I rode along; yes, I was relaxed and even enjoyed myself.  I'm not sure I need to do it again, however. My knees hurt at the end of the ride and I have no idea how I'll feel tomorrow! 

The higher elevation meant cooler temps and moderate breezes. The views were spectacular, the clearest day they've had for some time. We could see the whole of the south side of Maui. They can usually see the peaks of the island but not usually the lower elevation as we did today.  When we left, Don directed us north to Pololu, the end of the road, and another breathtaking view. 

We then drove back along the ocean to our hotel. We could see whale spouts and hope to see them closer later on when we go out on the water.  Tonight we are eating nearby at Tommy Bahama Tropical Cafe. 

Tomorrow's adventure will be zip lining. Another first for me.