Find balance. Walking through the black sand of Waipio, disconnected from wifi signals and surrounded by a simpler approach to living, a calming effect washed over me. Here, life was about the waves, sunshine, and waterfall around the corner. This valley is protected to preserve the more traditional way of life. One day I'll explore what lies in the neighboring valley. Until then, I'll enjoy the memory of this view, black sand beneath my feet, and bright blue waters washing up over the beach.
When I think back on this experience, what first comes to mind is the strong feelings of awe and relief I felt upon finding this beach. Hiking eleven miles, away from the crowds, and into the wilderness, the journey here wiped our minds of modern conveniences and helped refocus appreciation on simple pleasures - a moment of rest, a gulp of fresh water, the taste of ripe guava right off the tree. Once we arrived here, the view was even more of a reward than I had imagined.
Ah the lush green east side of Oahu with its bright blue coastline hosts a variety of hikes for all skill levels. As this view caught my eye, I had just began my ascent back up the first peek after returning from the summit of the second. We often hike the smaller hills surrounding the Mokes, the two islands in the distance, to catch an elevated view of these gems. Olomana offered a new heightened perspective that dwarfed the gentler, Lanikai Pillbox hike. From where I stood, another mountain range towered over Olomana, behind me. Three tiers of challenges and rewards, three more reasons to get outside.
