Wednesday, February 26, 2014

Kona, Hawaii, our second stop on the big island of Hawaii

We had a wonderful journey of discovery through the historic city of Kona and along Hawaii's beautiful sun-drenched Gold Coast. Departing from the pier, we traveled past ancient temples, fields of coffee and macadamia nuts, as well as breathtaking coastal scenery. Hawaii is world-famous for its rich blends of Kona coffee, and a stop at the Kona coffee house gives you a chance to sip the flavorful brew while browsing through the shop and exhibits. We had a tasting of some very different and delicious coffees. Then on to a breathtaking sea view of Kealakekua Bay. Another highlight of this tour was St. Benedict's historic painted church, noted for its colorful murals depicting biblical scenes. Then a trip to discover old Hawaii at Pu'uhonua O Honaunau National Historical Park. This place of refuge has served as a political and religious sanctuary since ancient times and is home to the sacred Hale Keawe Heiau, a temple that once housed the bones of deceased chiefs. Our Roberts Hawaii guide Valarie was a wealth of information.

Getting ready to surf
A view from Kona Coffee
St. Benedict's, known as the painted church
Some of the many murals
How beautiful!
                                                                       
Bread fruit, take of the skin, bake & it tastes like bread


Pu'uhonua O Honaunau National Historical Park
                                                                       
A net fisherman
The fisherman's catch, so far today.
Debbie is enjoying the park
An ancient burial hut sits on lava rock
another great view
Yes, we are enjoying a windy day at the park
Traditional dining areas
                                                                       
                                             

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