In September 2011 I traveled to Maui, Hawaii to visit my friend, Mary. She lives in Hana, a beautiful, friendly and rather remote location on Maui. Hana and its community are definitely an acquired lifestyle and one I quickly adapted to and enjoyed. You have to WANT to get to Hana since the only way there is a 2 hour drive on a very winding narrow road full of eye popping scenery. Known as the "Road to Hana", I ended up driving it 3 times while I was there, so I can call myself a veteran.
For Part 1 of the "Live Aloha" blog I am including a sampling of pictures I took over the 2 weeks I was there. It is such a beautiful place that you have to consciously set the camera down sometimes and just take it all in. Below are pictures of Hamoa Beach which is just a few miles and a short drive outside of Hana.
Mary and I visited Hamoa Beach twice, once in the late morning and again on the last evening of my time in Hawaii.
Below is Koki Beach which is also just outside of Hana on the way to Oheo Gulch.
Below is a shot of the Oheo Gulch area. This is the tropical section of Haleakala National Park. Watch for more to come on the National Park in Live Aloha! - Part 2.
Part of the Hana lifestyle with Mary is joining in the morning aqua exercise class at the pool. There is a fancy resort in Hana and the management graciously allows access for a class in their beautiful pool 4 mornings a week. Friend Mary is a regular and I was happy to join right in. The pool and the setting were a great way to start the day.
As you drive into Hana you pass the turn off to Waianapanapa State Park. The park offers a beautiful beach but even better it offers access to a trail through the black lava rock between the state park and Hana. I hiked part of the trail and the beautiful scenery and the pounding surf against the rocks were great companions.
Upcountry Maui
I left Hana for "the other side" of Maui for a few days. I spent time in "upcountry Maui" as it is known. One inspiring stop was Haleakala National Park. I have included a few shots here but more to come on the national park and "the other side".
Haleakala at sunset.
Haleakala Crater
More to come in Part 2! Thanks for looking.
