Private Half-Way to Hana Tour - April 9, 2021

Before our Hawaii trip, Helen arranged a private 'Half-Way to Hana Tour' for us.  Our driver Taylor from Central Pacific Charters picked us up at 8:30am.

Our first stop was Ho'okipa Lookout. This park is famous for surfing, windsurfing, parasailing and snorkeling. There were a lot of people surfing on that day.  We also got to a chance to see sea turtles coming up on the beach.  Tylor took us to the Black Sand beach next. On the way to our next attraction, Taylor took us to a little store to buy the Maui's Road to Hana Banana bread. Later, we stopped at Haiku and ate the banana bread.  We also stopped at Ko'olau Forest Reserve for a short hike.  We had pictures taking in front of rainbow eucalyptus trees and bamboo trees, Then, we walked up to the waterfalls.  The scenery was just beautiful.

In the afternoon, Taylor took us to a hamburger place for lunch. The burger was delicious with Hawaii sweet onions. Around 3:00pm, we got back to the resort. It was a nicely pre-arranged 6 hours trip with just the right amount of activities for us. Although the road to Hana is winding, Taylor drove skillfully and we did not feel it at all.

After a short rest in our room, we headed to Island Gourmet Markets near the resort because  Alice would like to eat papayas everyday.  Before entering the market, we saw 'Johnny Was' clothing store inside the 'Shops at Wailea'.  Alice carries a beautiful bag with 'Johnny Was' name on it that day.  So, we went in and checked it out.  As usual, it was not hard for us to find bright and colorful clothes there.

We did not forget about papayas and also found souvenirs such as macadamia nuts and candies in the Island Gourmet Market.

Dinner at the Sansei Seafood Restaurant & Sushi Bar which was suggested by Taylor. The food was just okay over there.