Spinner Dolphins and Dinner With Captain Cook

Although apparently large groups of spinner dolphins on the Kona coast are a frequent occurrence, it was a great delight for us to see dozens of these friendly creatures and their babies playing off our shore.  I first noticed a group of paddle boarders hanging out in front of he condo.  Then I could see that they were surrounded by dark fins.  Yikes, I thought, and called to Rick when I saw a couple of the dolphins leap and twist.  Then I could see more and more and more sleek gray bodies in the water.  Just beautiful.  We had this delight to ourselves for a short time and then boats came from everywhere to dump snorkelers into the water to join the dolphins.  I got frustrated watching one very aggressive boat motor among the dolphins and the snorkelers, but it was an exciting time, regardless.

We took in some more Hawaiian history today.  First a tour of Hulihe`e Palace which was built in 1838 by the second Governor of the Island of Hawai`i, John Adams Kuakini. After his death in 1844, the Palace passed to Princess Ruth Luka Ke`elikōlani. While Princess Ruth owned the Palace, Hulihe`e was a favorite vacation retreat of the royal families.  

The Palace was built by foreign seamen, of native lava rock, coral lime mortar, koa and `ohi`atimbers. It was originally paneled in koa. The walls are 3 feet thick which along with the trade winds and shade from the big porches keeps the inside pretty cool.  It is just across the street from Moku`aikaua Church, the first stone church on the Island of Hawai`i.  It is a short walk to the pier on Kailua Bay.

The beach in Kailua Bay is where the swimming section of the Ironman is done.  Lots of folks were in the water practicing the swim.  At the pier we climbed on the Kanda ll for an evening history boat tour down the coast to the spot where Captain Cook is buried.  The cliffs rising above Kealakekua Bay are the Big Island’s signature seascape. This is where Captain James Cook took his last breath. It was a scenic one hour ride along the coast to the bay where we had a luau type meal on the boat in the calm waters of the bay.  However, the ride back was like being on a roller coaster.  Matthew, this would not be a boat ride for you!  We had great live music, drinks and a sunset.  A perfect last full day in Hawaii.