For all the photos that I have taken so far, I make it a point to do fundamental editing to make them look realistic. For those taken from Hawai'i during my three weeks-stay on its two islands, I can confidently say that there was no need for editing. The place is like heaven!
Along the northeastern coast of the Big Island of Hawai'i (called locally the Hāmākua Coast) are two stunning viewpoints- Waipi'o Valley Overlook and Laupahoehoe Point Beach Park. These two, highly recommended, car stops (35 km apart) show a vast clearing of the sea and the far horizon. Traveling by car along the coast and blocked by lush wilderness around, these clearings show a different world!
View from Waipi'o Valley Overlook
Laupahoehoe Point Beach Park offers a spectacular contrast between the blue ocean, the green palms, and the black lava rocks. If you enjoy a warm breeze and small ocean droplets sprinkling on your face, this is the place for you. The lava (volcanic) rocks are interesting too!
Laupahoehoe Point Beach Park
It is not easy to find the signboard to go down the hill to this park, and network connection is not the best in this part of the Main Island.
This place is a perfect lunch/picnic spot. Ocean waves crashing against the lava rocks is an amazing view here, and you can get as close to the waves as possible. However, having a swim here is far from possible due to the ferocious waves and the sharp rock edges. This park also hosts a memorial for the people who got killed by a tsunami around 75 years ago, reminding us further how violent the ocean here can become.
A closer view of ocean waves splashing over black, lava rocks
Apart from the beauty of the valley, the Waipi'o Valley (also known as the 'Valley of the Kings') has an important place in Hawai'ian history and culture. This valley was once the home of King Kamehameha the Great, the conqueror and first ruler of Hawai'i. The lookout point is easily accessible throughout the year, but the hiking routes that start from this point are not always open. You have to check this in advance, and also keep in mind that non-native people are not allowed to drive down the valley. The only accessible ways are by foot (not an easy hike!) and by organized horse-riding tours. The rocks here are slippery as you go further down the valley, so don't forget good hiking shoes!
Apparently, a picture of me is missing here, but who wants to take pictures of oneself when you are busy taking in the astounding nature and looking for interesting volcanic rocks?
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