Hawaii: Big Island: Kealakekua Bay, Kona, and South Point

Exploring Kealakekua Bay, Kona, and South Point: Snorkels, History, and Coastal Adventures

The Big Island of Hawaii has a way of packing an entire day of adventure into just a few hours, and our latest journey through Kona down to the southern tip of the island proved that once again. Between historic sites, crystal-clear waters, and rugged coastal cliffs, this day trip reminded us why the Big Island is as diverse as it is magical.

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Morning: Snorkeling at Kealakekua Bay

We started the day at Kealakekua Bay, widely regarded as one of Hawaii’s premier snorkeling spots. Accessible either by kayak, boat tour, or a challenging hike, the bay’s sheltered waters are home to vibrant coral gardens and an astonishing variety of fish. As soon as we slipped into the water, we were greeted by schools of bright parrotfish, humuhumunukunukuapua’a, and the occasional elegant black triggerfish. We decided to take the challenging hike to the bay, thinking... it can't be that bad.... phew...

We're in the Kona area, must venture out with a cup of coffee... Don't judge me on where I got it from, it was NOT my first cup for the day... 

For the first half of the walk, you are walking through a path that is paved through thick vegetation. There is not much of a view ahead of you, until you hit the clearing the the views are breathtaking.

Don't let the views distract your or you may miss a step and faaaaaaalllll! 

The water was warm and calm, and visibility stretched far enough to spot every coral nook and crevice. It’s impossible not to feel like you’ve been transported into another world, quiet, serene, and completely mesmerizing.

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Mid-Morning: Captain Cook’s Memorial

After a few hours in the bay, we paddled or drove up to Captain Cook’s Monument, a simple but striking white stone memorial tucked along the shoreline. James Cook’s history in Hawaii is complicated, but visiting the site gives perspective on how the islands were first seen by European explorers. Standing there, looking down over the bay we’d just snorkeled in, the juxtaposition of history and natural beauty was striking.

I am not sure how one would launch from here - it was hard enough to venture down with just a backpack. I am not even worried about the climb back up... yet... but a pleasant surprise at the completion of our accent, someone left a bushel of bananas on the windshield of our car, that we could tell were freshly picked. The locals are so kind and welcoming; be sure to respectful of local practices and culture. 

If solitude is not within your comfort zone, I would have to say that many parts of Hawaii may not be places you may want to venture too. 

Wish I had the right gear to get a better photo of the coral and sea life. I guess it'll have to wait until the next trip. 

It’s one of those places where you pause, take a deep breath, and just take it all in, the turquoise waters, the cliffs, and the quiet weight of history all at once.

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Afternoon: Exploring Kona

After our history lesson, we headed north into Kona proper for a late lunch and a little local exploration. Kona’s charm lies in its blend of small-town streets and coastal scenery: local coffee shops, boutique stores, and historic sites all nestled between lava flows and palm trees. Did I mention Coffee...  it's where Kona Coffee is grown, please revel in that and enjoy, if you are a coffee aficionado. 

We wandered the streets, sipped locally roasted coffee, and even stopped for a short walk along the bayfront before heading south again. Kona makes a perfect midway point between the historic sites of the bay and the more rugged landscapes further down the coast. ahem... find and drink more coffee... 

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Late Afternoon: Venturing to South Point

Next, we set our sights on Ka Lae, or South Point, the southernmost tip of the United States. The drive down takes you through the stark, otherworldly lava landscapes of the Ka’u region, barren, wind-swept, and incredibly dramatic.

These waters are not meant to venture into!

If you are daring to jump off the western cliffs, this is your only way back out of the water. It's by where all the locals are parked and fishing off the side of the cliff. If they aren't doing it, I would highly recommend you take their queues and not jump in.

The waters seem to be calmer on this side of South Point, or we're so high up, that I can't tell how choppy the waters really are. 

Then I came across this opening, not too far from the ladder, and you realize the immense power of the waters here. 

At South Point, the ocean crashes against cliffs that feel like the edge of the world. It’s windy, raw, and beautiful, with a sense of isolation that contrasts sharply with the more populated areas we visited earlier. A few daring visitors were cliff diving, though we opted to stay safely on the ledges and take in the views.

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Sunset and Reflection

We ended the day on the drive back toward Kona, watching the sun sink into the Pacific and reflecting on a day that blended snorkeling, history, small-town charm, and rugged natural beauty. The Big Island has a way of showing you so many sides of itself in a single day — from underwater wonderlands to volcanic deserts to the tips of continents — that it’s impossible to experience it all in one trip. But days like this come close.

Only if it wasn't soo cloudy this evening. Oh well, until the next trip to Hawaii.

Hawaii: Big Island: Snorkeling, Desert Drives, and Mauna Kea Views

A Perfect Day on the Big Island: Snorkeling, Desert Drives, and Mauna Kea Views

Hawaii’s Big Island is often described as a place of extremes, lush rainforests and stark lava deserts, turquoise waters and dark volcanic sands, sleepy towns and otherworldly mountaintops. On our recent adventure, we decided to pack as much of this island magic as possible into each and every single day, and it did not disappoint.

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Morning: Snorkeling at Kahalu'u Beach Park

Our day began at Kahalu'u Beach Park, a small, sheltered bay on the Kona coast that’s famous for its clear water and abundance of tropical fish. As soon as we slipped into the water, we were greeted by a rainbow of reef fish darting between the coral and the occasional sea turtle gliding gracefully by. The water was calm and warm, making it perfect for a leisurely snorkel.

Just like New York City rush hour, you where someone literally pushes past you without even noticing you’re there. You might stumble, step aside, and think, “Was that intentional?” but you just keep moving because stopping is not an option. The turtles seem to be the same way here in Hawaii, they don't care if you are around and at times, seem like they will push past you. Give the turtles some space.  

Spending a couple of hours here was magical. Between observing the colorful reef and floating in the gentle current, it felt like we were in our own private aquarium. With it's ease of access, it can get pretty crowded so that is the reason we opted for an earlier morning snorkeling excursion. 

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Midday: Driving Through the Desert of the Island’s Heart

After drying off and grabbing a quick (late) breakfast, we headed inland toward the island’s central plateau. The scenery here is a striking contrast to the lush coastlines: rolling lava fields, dry grasslands, and black volcanic rock stretching as far as the eye can see. It’s not what most people expect when they think of Hawaii, but the stark, open landscape has its own mesmerizing beauty.

I really enjoy driving in new places, so this drive itself was part of the adventure, winding roads that revealed ever-changing landscapes and small towns tucked into the island’s interior. This stretch is a reminder that the Big Island is a land of extremes and surprises at every turn.

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Day Tour of the Mauna Kea Observatory

One of the highlights of our day was a guided day tour of the observatory facilities, which is built on the the island’s tallest peak. The drive up is an experience in itself: from tropical forests in the lower elevations, the terrain gradually shifts to barren volcanic rock and, eventually, the high-altitude summit.

Tours usually start with a brief orientation at a lower visitor center, where guides explain the scientific significance of Mauna Kea’s telescopes and the mountain’s unique astronomical advantages. From there, we took a vehicle up toward the summit, stopping at scenic overlooks to photograph the volcanic landscapes and the surrounding islands. Highly recommend you rent a 4-wheel-drive during your visit, if you want to explore different parts of the island. 

You must have a 4-wheel drive to get to the summit. 

Keep your distance during the caravan ride up to the summit. 

At the summit, our guide shared stories about how the observatories track distant galaxies, planets, and stars. Even from the parking area, the telescopes are massive and impressive, you get a real sense of the scale and complexity of these instruments. For astronomy enthusiasts, just standing beside them while the sky deepens into twilight is unforgettable.

When you realize why these observatories were built on this mountain top. 

Don't force yourself to claim damages to your rental car, heed the warning signs and don't park near the buildings. 

Welcome!

Spectacular views once you summit! 

The tour also highlighted the importance of protecting Mauna Kea’s sacred environment, and guides emphasize respect for both the scientific research and the native Hawaiian culture tied to the mountain. It’s an experience that blends adventure, education, and awe-inspiring scenery all in one.

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Evening: Mauna Kea Summit and Observatory

The temperature drops significantly at this elevation, but the view, a panoramic sweep of the island, the Pacific Ocean, and the neighboring peaks, makes every shiver worth it. We went from swimming gear, shorts and t-shirt earlier in the day to hoodies, beanie caps, gloves which were not enough layers to keep us warm. 

We lingered just long enough to watch twilight settle over the Big Island before beginning the descent back toward the coast. The contrast between the tropical warmth of the beaches and the crisp mountaintop air made the day feel like a journey through multiple worlds, all on the same island.

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Final Thoughts

In just one day, we experienced the full spectrum of the Big Island: snorkeling with turtles in warm waters, driving through otherworldly lava deserts, and standing among the stars at Mauna Kea’s summit. It’s a reminder of why this island is truly called the “Big Island,” every corner feels like a different adventure, and even one day can leave you awe-inspired.

Lancaster, PA: Trains, Thrills, and Timeless Traditions in Pennsylvania Dutch Country

Lancaster, Pennsylvania, is one of those rare destinations that feels both like a step back in time and a super fun, family-friendly getaway. It’s got something for everyone, storybook landscapes, old-timey trains, Amish horse-and-buggies trotting past cornfields, and an amusement park built just for kids (and those of us who are still kids at heart).

We spent many long weekend here and left with sticky fingers (shoofly pie), full bellies, and countless train photos. Here's how to make the most of a trip to Lancaster County—a little slice of Americana with just the right mix of nostalgia and excitement.

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Dutch Wonderland: “A Kingdom for Kids”

First up—Dutch Wonderland. If you’re traveling with little ones (or nostalgic adults), this small-but-mighty amusement park is basically a fairy tale brought to life. From the castle entrance to the kiddie-sized roller coasters, everything is designed with families in mind.

There are gentle rides like the Wonder Whip, splash zones for hot summer days, and the classic Sky Ride that glides you over the park’s colorful rooftops. We loved the old-fashioned charm of it all—no massive crowds, no overwhelming thrill rides—just lots of smiles and a dragon named Duke who waves back when you wave to him.

Bonus: it’s only a short drive from downtown Lancaster and shares a parking lot with one of the outlet malls (more on that later…).

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All Aboard in Strasburg: Trains, Trains, Trains

You don’t have to be a train buff to fall head over heels for Strasburg, just a few miles southeast of Lancaster. It’s a little town with big train energy.

The Strasburg Rail Road is the main event. We took a steam-powered train ride through Amish farmland in a beautifully restored vintage railcar. The smell of coal smoke, the rhythmic chug of the engine—it felt like time slowed down just a little. Kids stared wide-eyed out the windows, and adults seemed just as mesmerized.

Across the street is the Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania, home to over 100 historic locomotives and railcars. You can walk among giants of steel, peek inside old dining cars, and even climb into the cab of a massive steam engine. It’s both interactive and educational, and honestly, one of the coolest train museums we’ve visited.

I have a dedicated blog posting on these two sites alone, called, Strasburg, PA: All Aboard for a Trip Through Time.

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Casey Jones’ Restaurant at Paradise Station: Dine by the Tracks

Right next to the railroad is a little gem: Casey Jones’ Restaurant at Paradise Station. We grabbed lunch here after a morning of train rides, and it was the perfect pick-me-up.

The restaurant is part of an actual train car hotel, and many of the tables look out over the Strasburg Rail Road line, so you can eat while vintage trains chug by. The food is classic and comforting: pot roast, meatloaf, fried chicken, and the kind of homemade desserts you don’t skip, no matter how full you are.

We've also come here for breakfast on other trips. Never a disappointment. 

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Amish & Mennonite Life: Simplicity and Tradition

You can’t visit Lancaster without noticing the Amish and Mennonite communities that shape this region’s culture and landscape. From horse-drawn buggies to laundry flapping on lines, their way of life feels quietly beautiful and deeply grounded.

On one trip, we stayed a few nights in an Amish Farm and House bed and breakfast, just off Route 30. The stay allowed us to tour an authentic farmhouse, and have full access to their fully operational farm. The far end of the property line was right up against the railroad tracks of the Straburg Railroad so we would walk up there and wave to the passengers of the train. The whole trip gave us a sense of respect, informative, and a much deeper appreciation for their traditions and values.

If you’re looking for hand-made souvenirs, don’t miss roadside stands or markets like Bird-in-Hand Farmers Market—fresh pies, whoopie pies, hand-woven baskets, and quilts that are actual works of art.

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Retail Therapy: The Outlets

If you’ve got some energy left (or maybe you need new walking shoes after all the exploring), Lancaster’s outlet malls are surprisingly good. The Tanger Outlets and Rockvale Outlets are both right off Route 30 and feature a mix of big-name brands.

It’s not the reason you come to Lancaster, but it’s a nice perk—especially if you’re traveling with teens or need a little rainy-day activity.

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Final Thoughts: Where the Modern Meets the Timeless

Lancaster is one of those places that makes you slow down, in the best way. Whether you’re watching the sunset over a field dotted with hay bales, riding a steam train through golden cornfields, or eating soft pretzels made by hand, it all feels a little more intentional, a little more connected.

It’s a place where kids can scream on a dragon-themed roller coaster, parents can relive childhood dreams of trains, and everyone leaves with a full heart (and probably a shoofly pie in the car).

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If You Go:

• Dutch Wonderland is seasonal (usually spring through early fall).

• Book Strasburg Rail Road rides ahead, especially in summer or during special events.

• Bring cash for Amish markets, many don’t take cards.

• Most attractions are within 20 minutes of each other, perfect for long weekends.

• Bring lots of antihistamines, my allergies are always in full overdrive every time I'm in Lancaster. 

Elmwood Park Zoo: A Wild Gem in the Heart of Norristown

Tucked away in the charming town of Norristown, Pennsylvania, lies a delightful surprise: the Elmwood Park Zoo. Established in 1924 with just a few white-tailed deer, this 16-acre zoo has blossomed into a vibrant sanctuary housing well over 100 species and welcoming more than half a million visitors annually.

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A Walk on the Wild Side

Just a few miles outside of Philadelphia and under the shadow of the Philadelphia Zoo, this regional zoo does not disappoint. From the moment you step through the gates, Elmwood Park Zoo offers an intimate yet immersive experience. Unlike other sprawling urban zoos, Elmwood's manageable size allows for a leisurely exploration without sacrificing the diversity of wildlife.

Highlights include the majestic jaguars, playful North American river otters, and the ever-curious red pandas. Bird enthusiasts will appreciate the variety of avian residents, from the regal bald eagle to the vibrant blue and gold macaw.

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Interactive Experiences

Elmwood Park Zoo isn't just about observing animals, it's about engaging with them. Visitors can participate in giraffe and bison feedings, offering a unique opportunity to connect with these gentle giants.

Although we have had not the opportunity to partake, for the more adventurous or ones with older kids, the Treetop Adventures ropes course provides a thrilling aerial perspective of the zoo. Younger guests, on the other hand, can enjoy the animal-themed carousel, butterfly train ride, and percussion garden.

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Commitment to Conservation and Education

Operated by the non-profit Norristown Zoological Society, Elmwood Park Zoo is dedicated to wildlife conservation and education. It participates in the Association of Zoos and Aquariums' Species Survival Plan, working to protect endangered species like the Panamanian golden frog and Chacoan peccary. 

Educational programs abound, from daily animal shows at the Zoo Bowl Theater to interactive experiences like the Junior Inspector Program, which engages families in wildlife discovery through games and activities.

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Accessibility and Inclusivity

Elmwood Park Zoo prides itself on being inclusive and accessible. In 2018, it became the first zoo in the world to earn the Certified Autism Center designation, ensuring that guests with sensory needs can enjoy their visit comfortably. 

Amenities like the Welcome Center offer family-friendly facilities, including a café, gift shop, and quiet rooms, enhancing the overall guest experience. 

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Plan Your Visit

• Location: 1661 Harding Blvd, Norristown, PA 19401

• Hours: Open daily from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM

• Admission: Varies by age and residency; Montgomery County residents receive discounted rates.

• Website: elmwoodparkzoo.org 

Whether you're a local looking for a weekend adventure or a traveler seeking a unique stop, Elmwood Park Zoo offers a blend of education, conservation, and fun that's hard to beat. It's a place where memories are made, one wild encounter at a time.