The Waikiki Aquarium is about a ten-minute walk from our hotel. DanG was there more than thirty years ago with his family, and wanted to see if a re-visit would trigger any memories. The museum is affiliated with the University of Hawai`i and serves as an educational tool for the preservation of native species and healthy ecosystems.
We were given audio wands when we checked in that provided in-depth information about the various exhibits. We learned about coral, sharks, reef habitats, fresh water habitats, monk seals, giant clams and more. There was a group of kids on a field trip so the energy was sky-high!
From there it was (we thought) a quick walk to the entrance of Diamond Head National Park. We bought a flashlight at an aptly named "Diamond Head Grocery" and were on our way. However, as we walked and walked and walked we realized we were not getting any closer to an entrance. And there was no signage. So we started walking the other way. And we walked and walked and walked. It was hot today, around 90 degrees plus humidity. Determination prevailed, though, as we spotted a sign just as were ready to push the hike to "Next time" status.
The hike is short - less than one mile - but fairly steep in parts. There were many people to share the trail with as well. Water is recommended, though the flashlight that is suggested in all the guidebooks is not necessary. The tunnel portion of the hike is brief and lit well enough to pass through without additional light (which is good because by the time we reached Diamond Head the $6 flashlight we bought was already toast!).
The view at the top is gorgeous, and we are glad we muscled our way through the experience of finding the park's entrance. As a reward (and thirst quencher) we each got a lilikoi shave ice from the truck parked at the beginning of the trail.
As luck would have it, we ended up sharing a cab back to Kapiolani Park (costing us only $3 each) and then hit a favorite spot of ours in Kona called Lulu's (we didn't even know it was a chain).
After completing all our action items for Waikiki, we decided to rest on our final night. It was a little bit of TV, room service and deep slumber. Three nights in Honolulu seemed perfect for us, and it has been a pleasant way to break up our travel. There is still much to see in this bustling island, such as Washington Place, the Honolulu Art Museum, the Polynesian Cultural Center and the famed North Shore.
But for now we bit adieu as tomorrow we return to our favorite little town of Hilo.
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