Hilo

The last stop on our Island tour was Hilo, also on the big island. Our port was a few kilometers from anything of interest but it was a cooler day with a light shower every so often and we were up for a long walk, umbrella at the ready. 

The skies were beginning to break up as we came across this lagoon. Very pretty, with our ship in the background.

More colorful trees in full bloom. 

There were signs warning of falling coconuts, but this one was staged. 

There was a strong current in this lagoon with the tide going out. Just beyond, there was some very high pounding surf as it hit a breakwater. 

We found the largest Japanese Gardens in the state of Hawaii and they did not disappoint. The little storm had passed so the water was calm and reflective. 

The large drops of water on the leaves show that a shower had just passed

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The trees of Hawaii are so impressive, but the Hawaiians might say the same of our massive Cedars, Maples, and Firs here in BC. The difference is that our trees grow up and theirs grow sideways. 

We were sure we were seeing another cruise ship in the distance, but as we got closer, we realized that it was a hotel meant to look like a cruise ship. And it certainly did!

These Rainbow Shower trees were quite common but each time I saw one I had to take a photo. I think they were in their peak. Hilo and Kona, both, were places I would consider for a longer term vacation in the future. Fewer people, less traffic, and more unspoiled wilderness. And did I mention the crystal clear waters....so beautiful.