Ka'ena Point

Today's topic is something I have been meaning to write about since I started this blog. As you all know, 2012 is a leap year. Since the powers that be have given us February 29th, my friend Melanie did not let us spend this "extra day" without having some fun.  She organized a hike out to Ka'ena Point, at the very end of the world-famous North Shore.  It was a brilliant idea, and a perfect way to spend a leap day!  

Ka'ena Point is about as far removed from civilization as you can get on the island of O'ahu. There are two ways to access it. We hiked it from the Mokule'ia side. It is about 2.5 miles  from where the paved road ends, and you can either follow the dirt road or wander along the rocky shore. At the end of the road there is a fence and gate which you have to walk through in order to access the Ka'ena Point Natural Area Reserve. Seabirds nest and Hawaiian monks seals rest in this protected corner of paradise. 

You can see the coast line from the dirt road

The path is scattered with boulders

Native plants along the road

The beach at Ka'ena Point

Driftwood and corals on the beach

Plants grow from the lava rock

Rugged volcanic coastline

While there are a few swimming spots along the hike, this is not one of them.

Looking down at the Wai'anae Coast

Parts of the beach is completely covered by chunks of coral

Hawaiian monk seal resting on the shore

Plants creep between lava rocks and sand

One of the many coves

It was a beautiful day for a hike! I am looking forward to going back there again soon.