Climbing the Koko Head Stairs to watch the sunset is something I had done countless times before, but this was the first time I had watch the sunset from behind the crater. Looking from this perspective, I can remember exploring everywhere from between where I stood and the small mountain in the distance that surrounds Hanauma Bay. This island has been a playground from leading friends on a hike that involved wading through waist deep water, looking for a newborn monk seal on the coastline, jumping off a wooden plank into the waves, and picking wild dragonfruit for the first time.
It was a day like any other. Waking up in a car in an empty parking lot at 5:00AM in a place with no cell reception, I walked for one minute before catching my first glimpse of the ocean as it met the shoreline of Waipio Valley.
I try to push myself beyond places that I’ve already been to explore new angles and perspectives. This applies to photography, adventures, and life experiences. Driving home from the West Side of the island I knew I had to get outside and appreciate the sunset after a long day. That morning, I had met with old friends who had not previously visited Hawaii. I planned a multitude of hikes and excursions for the day only to be reminded that wading in Hawaiian waters for the first time on a beach with less than fifty people was a mind altering experience for newcomers in itself. Sharing the beauty of Hawaii with a fresh set of eyes reminded me of the feeling of new discovery. Here, I carried that perspective with me as I went beyond where I myself had gone, to find this spot above the sea where I’ve jumped and swam, looking out at shorelines I’ve dove, and two mountains I’ve climbed. Always stretch, always grow, and appreciate how far you’ve come.
