Another glorious day in Kona! Walking was on the agenda today, so we headed off along Ali'i Drive, the busy but beautiful road that skirts the coastline from Kailua-Kona to Keauhou. Why beautiful? The stunning views of the surf and the palm fringed shores and beaches; the local landmarks; and the lovely island homes and the lush tropical gardens are all there to delight the senses! You never get sick of wandering along Ali'i! If you visit Kona, driving along Ali'i to Keauhou is a must! That's were all the action happens in Kona!
Our destination today was popular La'aloa Beach, or as the locals call it Magic Sands Beach, for a surf and to enjoy the sun. The surf was up so there was plenty to entertain us while we relaxed. There were many wipeouts and dumpings happening as everyone enjoyed challenging the sea! The waves were big! We nearly got caught by a huge one that surged up the beach and sent everyone scattering to higher ground with towels, bags and belongings. A funny sight. A most enjoyable morning!
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Ali'i Gardens Marketplace is a popular open air markets for local goods and produce.
Being set in a beautiful leafy, landscaped park make the markets very appealing. |
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A Ukulele lesson was in full swing under the tree canopy as we strolled through the markets
A popular instrument in Hawaii! It originated in the 19th century as a Hawaiian interpretation
of a machete, a small guitar-like instrument taken to Hawaii by Portuguese immigrants. |
The lovely homes, Hawaiian inspired gates and entrances, and the beautiful tropical gardens and trees
that line Ali'i offer plenty to admire while walking or driving.
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| Love this gate - all about the sea! |
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| Fantastic gate! |
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| Lovely Pahoehoe Beach Park is a popular picnic spot overlooking the ocean |
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Beautiful Magic Sands Beach
The water is such an amazing mixture of greens and turquoise |
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What a view from this lovely restaurant - you can dine while taking in the beauty
the ocean and Magic Sands Beach |
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| And the waves roll in! |
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| Smash! |
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| Another monster! |
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The bodyboarders were loving the rides and the dumpings!
You can see right through the super clean green water! |
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| About to be dumped big time! |
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A cruise boat anchors in Kailua Bay
Kona is a popular stop when cruising the Hawaiian Islands |
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| An artist at work! He was very good! |
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| De Poke Shack on Ali'i, near Magic Sands Beach, is a very popular Cafe |
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A famous and historic Ali'i landmark - Living Stones Church
or Hale Halawai O Holualoa |
After lunch and a swim in the pool at Alii Lani, we walked Ali'i Drive into town for a coffee while watching the sun set. Again, it didn't disappoint!
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| The very nice townhomes where we are staying |
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| Alii Cove Beach |
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There were lots of surfers out today at every beach we walked by -
making the most of and enjoying the good surf! |
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| The famous Huggo's on the Rocks |
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Location! Location! Location!
Huggo's is a fantastic spot to sit, relax, enjoy a drink, enjoy the music,
and watch the amazing sunsets! |
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Huggo's and Th Royal Kona Hotel.
The Royal is another great perch to watch enjoy the sunset! |
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Lots of novel modes of transport in Kona this year!
Another way you could sightsee Ali'i Drive! |
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| Sunset volleyball |
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Enjoying the music and the sunset at the iconic Lava Java - great meals and coffee
Visiting Lava Java definitely must be on your "to do" list when you visit Kona!
Over the next few week while the Ironman World Championships are on here in Kona, this
cafe will be packed - difficult to get a seat any time of the day it is so popular! |
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Popular LuLu's and Bongo Bens are crowded with early diners and Happy Hour goers
who all want to enjoy the sunset over a meal and a drink.
A perfect way to end to a day in Kona! |
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| Another beautiful evening! |
Meet more of our passing parade of daily visitors at Ali'i Lani, on Ali'i Drive...........................
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Who me?
This is Tinkerbell - she visits regularly.
You hear her coming, and so do the birds!!!
Beautiful colours in her coat |
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| Curious! |
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| So striking in their black and white suits and red hats! |
This is only part of the renowned Ali'i Drive that we walked today - it is home to many more interests and treasures...............but will keep for another time................
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