Tuesday Treasures - 1999 Hawaii

 Tom hosts Tuesday's Treasures.

The first time we went to Hawaii was in 1999, before digital cameras (we got our first in 2001).

At the time John was travelling across the country for two weeks a month, so he really racked up the frequent flyer points, as at that time, he was allowed to fly business class.

So we decided to use them to go to Hawaii. 

We also owned timeshare with a small company, based on the US west coast, who owned 9 resorts in Hawaii, making it very easy to book. We owned with them for 40 years and never regretted a minute of it.

We booked the Big Island and Kauai. The Big Island immediately became our favourite.

This will be a photo only (mostly) as I don't have any notes about this trip.

I remember we had a huge video camera with us and took so many photos of volcano rock. We got rid of those videos, they were awful, so shaky. Our phones do such a better job than those cameras.

We went to Hawaii again in:

2001??? Maui with family, I can't find any photos

2005 Honolulu and Big Island

2009 Honolulu and Big Island (Kona and Hilo)

2011 Honolulu and Big Island (Kona and Hilo)

We fly from Honolulu to the Big Island, rented a car and headed to Sea Mountain.

From the timeshare website:

Is a secluded, 76-unit timeshare resort in Punalu'u (on map Black Sand Beach).

Located in the secluded, rural part of the Big Island known as South Point, your resort is surrounded by grassy areas and exotic leafy plants. The Polynesian-style bungalow at Sea Mountain puts you a short 30 minute drive to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park and other awe-inspiring sites.

Quick Glance:

Sightseeing the Kilauea volcano, where you can safely explore lava tubes, hiking trails, and overlooks

Punalu’u, a black sand beach located near the resort

Akaka Falls, a tumbling waterfall with a 442 foot drop

Resort includes sparkling blue outdoor pool and hot tub

On-site BBQ area, spa, and tennis

Important Notes for Visitors

Remote Location: The resort is very remote, with limited nightlife and restaurants.

Prepare Provisions: It is highly recommended to stock up on groceries in Kona or Hilo before arriving, as local shopping options are limited.

Atmosphere: Known as a very quiet, laid-back "tropical hideaway".

Nearby Alternative Golf: If the on-site course does not suit your needs, the Volcano Golf & Country Club is nearby.

It mentions the onsite golf course, designed by Jack Snyder, which has the most spectacular views, however. even then it was poorly maintained.

But it meant John could go out every morning and play without any crowds.

When someone asks me, I always say that this was the most blissful spot! Nestled between the ocean and the mountains.

It was the first time that we had seen a black sand beach!

Punaluʻu Black Sand Beach is the most famous jet-black shore on the Big Island, known for its stunning black sand, endangered sea turtles. Located on the Kaʻū coast (southern end) near Pāhala, it is formed by lava exploding into the ocean.

Fanny packs!

And the turtles!! We have much better photos in later years.

 Large Hawaiian Green Sea Turtles (honu) -  do not touch or harass the turtles; they are protected by law and often monitored by volunteers.

8th hole

The Big Island has lush tropical rainforests primarily on its windward (northeast) side, including the Hāmākua Coast, Hilo, and Puna districts. These areas, receiving up to 300 inches of rain annually, boast dense ohia lehua forests, waterfalls, and botanical gardens. 

Driving to the Volcano. 

In 1999, Kīlauea volcano on the Big Island of Hawaii was highly active, continuing its long-term, uninterrupted eruption that began in 1983. The activity was characterized by consistent lava flows from the Puu O`o vent, dramatic ocean entries, and a significant, temporarily disruptive dike intrusion event in September.

 A major "dike intrusion" occurred on September 12, 1999, causing an earthquake swarm. This event caused the Puu O`o vent to shut down temporarily for 11 days, from September 12 until September 23, 1999.

Strong steam-driven explosions occurred in April 1999 at the ocean entry, as the lava bench collapsed. These explosions created fountains and propelled lava bombs and rocks as high as 80 meters (262 feet) in the air.

Residents experienced periods of poor air quality (vog) during the year due to emissions of sulfur dioxide from the vent, according to USGS 1999 reports.

We were here late October - early November 1999.

It is a much longer hike nowadays.

We then flew to Kauai where we stayed in another time share.

Kauai is the oldest, northernmost island and has dramatic landscapes filled with exotic wonders. You will find fresh, tropical breezes and tranquil waters in this lovely area.

Pono Kai Resort

Sunrise!

 'Ōpaeka'a Falls, a major waterfall located in Wailua River State Park on the eastern side of the Hawaiian island of Kauai. 

The falls are approximately 151 feet tall and flow year-round. 

It is one of the island's most accessible waterfalls, with a roadside viewpoint available right off Kuamo'o Road. 

The name 'Ōpaeka'a translates to "rolling shrimp," referring to the freshwater shrimp that were once abundant in the stream below. 

The surrounding lush valley and Makeleha Mountains provide a scenic backdrop for photos, though there is no safe hiking access to the falls themselves.

Fern Grotto

In the charming town of Hanapepe (filming location for the movie Lilo and Stitch), the Hanapepe Swinging Bridge is a must-visit attraction for anyone traveling to Kauai, Hawaii. This historic pedestrian suspension bridge not only provides a thrilling walk as it gently sways but also offers breathtaking views of the surrounding scenery.

That's John, I'm not sure if I crossed it.

View from bridge.

Our first helicopter ride!

Experience the legendary natural views that encompass the Garden Isle. Explore stunning Manawaiopuna Falls, often called “Jurassic Park” falls, surrounded by rich native flora in the gorgeous Hanapepe Valley. Fly over the spectacular views of the Olokele Canyon before hovering above the majestic Waimea Canyon, dubbed the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific.” Lastly, explore the magical 3,000-foot sea cliffs of the Na Pali Coast and the pristine turquoise-blue waters of Hanalei Bay, a truly unforgettable sight.

Major films showcased include Jurassic World, Raiders of the Lost Ark, King Kong, and Avatar.

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Floaters

Traditional village. Ti leaves in a maternity room.

Kilauea Point National Wildlife Refuge: Located on the northernmost point of the main Hawaiian Islands, this refuge is situated on a former volcanic vent and features dramatic ocean views from a 180-foot bluff. It is a critical habitat and one of the largest colonies for various seabird species, including red-footed boobies, Laysan albatrosses, and the Hawaiian goose (nēnē). 

Nene nest

Daniel K. Inouye Kilauea Point Lighthouse: A historic landmark completed in 1913, the lighthouse is part of the wildlife refuge and offers panoramic ocean views, serving as a great spot for whale watching during winter months (December to April). 

Princeville Hotel

Spouting Horn

It turned out that friends of ours were also on Kauai at the same time, J and I. They didn't have a car, so we picked them up and spent a day together.

We had lunch at the Nawiliwili Tavern, which is now permanently closed.

We spent time at Waimea Canyon, on Kauaʻi's West Side, is described as “The Grand Canyon of the Pacific.” Although not as big or as old as its Arizona cousin, you won’t encounter anything like this geological wonder in Hawaiʻi. Stretching 14 miles long, 1 mile wide and more than 3,600 feet deep, the Waimea Canyon Lookout provides panoramic views of crested buttes, rugged crags and deep valley gorges. The grand inland vistas go on for miles.