Wanting to "swim with da fishes" as Steve has said, we left early for Hanauma Bay and its coral playground.
Hanauma Bay is an incredible natural pool that has formed in a volcanic crater. The crater is evidence of a volcanic burst of activity on the island tens of thousands of years ago. These volcanic eruptions formed the crater on the sea floor, and waves from the ocean eventually filled the circular bay.
Hanauma Bay has long been one of the island of O'ahu’s jewels. Native Hawaiians have been enjoying life on the bay for thousands of years. The beach and surrounding natural park get their name from two Hawaiian words: “hana” which means bay and “uma” which means curved. To the Hawaiians, this bay has long been part of their history. In fact, there are many legends about how the curved bay got its name. The bay was historically an excellent area for fishing. Records show that the Hawaiian royalty in the 1800s often stayed at the bay for entertainment and fishing.
Since we didn't have snorkeling equipment, I did I the best I could to photograph fish in the clear, warm water.
We saw a huge variety of fish. This is the Lipstick Tang Fish.
I loved this Red-crested Cardinal.
We took a brief pause at Hālona Blowhole, a rock formation and a blowhole that truthfully wasn't super impressive. The tide must have been out. I don't believe my expression depicts my disappointment on the blowhole.
Another stop was made at Makapu'u Point. In addition to being a very special space for humpback whales, it is also the location of several WWII bunkers, dug into the cliff sides, once an opportune hiding spot from enemy forces. O'ahu has many hidden military bunkers dotting coastal hilltops. These bunkers were built to guard against battleship attacks on Pearl and Honolulu Harbors.
Day #2 was interesting and fun. We can't wait to see what is in store for us tomorrow.
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2 comments:
Well first off I love the face at the blow hole! LOL!!! Now as we are trying to figure out a trip and I see these pictures it not getting easier! Looks amazing and what a sweet place you are staying in! Cannot wait for more pictures! Great pictures of the fish, how amazing is that water?
The bay looks gorgeous! I know you didn't have equipment, but did you swim?! Warm water is a treat, for sure!
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