The mission continues

So I finally, finally, figured out how to load pictures from my new camera to my computer.  (Let's be honest, I wasn't trying all that hard...)  I actually wrote this at the same time as the last post, but didn't post it since I didn't have any pictures.  Well anyways, now we can return to the blogging!

One of the weekends my ward put together a group to drive to Hana.  This is pretty much the only kind of road trip you can expect on an island.  Hana is this isolated little town clear over on the east side of Maui that is reachable only by taking a 3-hour drive through a one-lane, windy, narrow road.  It's notorious for making people carsick, but it's actually a very beautiful drive due to the amount of rain which allows for the green jungles, multiple waterfalls, and the frequent scenic views of the coastline.

We made several stops along the way, including a secluded little waterfall.  We stopped at some lava caves which were filled with fresh-water pools.  The water was rather cold, and once you swam in it got very dark, adding to the excitement.  I couldn't get a very good picture because my camera isn't waterproof.

This was literally right off the road.  Some of our group climbed to the top and jumped off.

This is a shot of the freshwater lava cave. 

After the caves we walked down to the beach which was one of the few black sand beaches.  The beach is black because it's lava rock sand which was cool to look at, but killer on the feet!  I also had fun taking some pictures of the intense surf.

One of our group was a Tongan who totally climbed up a coconut tree, grabbed some coconuts, and sliced it open with a machete.  Sweet!  Gotta say, I'm not really a fan of coconut water.

We spent several hours at another beach, but I didn't get any pictures.  Honestly I think it's my favorite beach so far because the waves were perfect for body surfing, or boogie boarding.  Finally, this last weekend I tried to stay a little closer to home, and I found Kamaole II in Kihei.  Nice sand, and right off the road, but I have to say I wasn't all that impressed.  Way too touristy, and next to no waves, which made for rather dull swimming.  It was, however, perfect for relaxing in the sun in what has become my new Sunday afternoon activity!