HI: South Point, POH, Two Step

South Point: We drove to the southernmost point of the island (6:00 on the island clock), which is the southernmost point of the United States.  It's very windy and the cliff jumping platforms are about 30 feet above blue clear ocean water.  R, as I've said before, is an early adopter, and jumps right in to new experiences that intimidate me.  he followed suit in this - twice.

One website claims it's a 40 foot jump and says: Swimming in the waters below the cliffs is always a thrill because, let's face it, you're treading in deep uncertain waters at the bottom of a tall cliff in an area barely sheltered from powerful winds, surf and currents that threaten to either smash you against the rocks or carry you to Antarctica.

We didn't hike down to the green sand beach.  saving that for next time. There is a lot more to see and savor, enough for another trip for sure!

After the thrills at the cliffs, we drove north to Two Step (8:00 on the island clock), another gorgeous snorkeling spot. you get in and it's instantly deep.  No beach, just lava rock. 

It is called Two Step because the snorkelers enter the water off a naturally formed lava step into 10 ft. of water. The next step drops off into 25 ft of water.

 

Beyond my flippers, you can see the school of yellow fish that i just had to launch myself into.  and R waiting for me.  nice and warm ambient temperature.  lots of other folks out in the water, calm and protected. a beautiful day and place for snorkeling.

 We took a break from snorkeling and walked to the ancient refuge Pu'uhonua O Honaunau, the destination for people seeking asylum from severe penalties imposed if you broke a law.  The had to get past the king's residence, by swimming the bay where we snorkeled, and once there, the priests were obligated to offer absolution, no matter how great or small the infraction (eating with your husband).  It ceased functioning in the early 19th century when that traditional religious law system was abolished.
The wood carved statues guarding the temple are known as ki'i.

 

On our last night, we stayed in a fun "Japanese Room" at the Manago Hotel (8:30 on the island clock), which had beautiful gardens. great prices.