Kihei, HI // Hawaiian Beaches, HI

• LONG trip to Hawaii – two 6 hour flights with a 6 hour layover sandwiched in the middle. Alex visits Helena during the layover.
• After almost 24 hours travelling, family gets 4 hours sleep before waking up to view sunrise at the summit of Haleakala volcano. Views were worth it though.
• Lots of open air restaurants due to the constantly beautiful weather
• Regular daily Mass by some family members at the church which is about a 5 minute walk
• “13 Crossings” Hike – false advertising! More than 13 crossings. Some family members slip on the rocks and fall into the stream
• What’s the best thing to do on Maui? Drive! We spend nearly 12 hours in and out of the car on the “Road to Hana”, a winding highway around the volcano with many views, hike, and activities along the way. Highlights include a local fruit stand on the side of the road, the volcanic Keanae Peninsula, and our virtual tour guide in the car.
• Marie goes to talk with a man who thinks he is literally Jesus Christ
• Lots of snorkeling and beach time (including a black sand beach!)
• Hiked through a volcano at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. We failed to see any lava though.
• Only thing Ben really wants to do for his birthday is go to an American diner
• Despite fervent desire, Marie unable to see a sea turtle up close