January 9th: Scenic Drive across the Big Island





 Today we drove across the island with multiple stops until we made it to Hilo. In the morning, in Kailua-Kona, we explored more of the resort. There were multiple weather alerts for wind and water spouts that woke me and Corie up that night, so unfortunately the pool was closed. So after a breakfast of a delicious raspberry pina colada smoothie and Hawaiian French toast, we went exploring. Since it was raining we didn’t go too far, but we found a garden filled with a bunch of different plants and a waterfall. After the car was loaded we started our journey to Hapuna Beach, our first stop. On the way we could see piles of volcanic rock that had not yet been broken down. It is an example of primary succession because it is an area where lava has flowed and formed new land. At first it was ever so slightly rainy and the water was on the chilly side, but once the sun came out, the water was perfect for swimming. Before getting in the water me and Corie explored the beach which had multiple birds around it, a green leafy fauna that covered patches of the beach, and the oddly shaped rocks in the sand. Once everyone was dried off we drove to a little shopping centre in Waimea with lots of different food options. Our group each got something from the patisserie- the bread was delicious. After, we finished our drive to our hotel in Hilo. Along the way we passed through a tropical rainforest in Hamkua Coast.

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