Marine protected areas promote conservation of aquatic resources. Here in Hanauma Bay, the coral reefs receive special attention as a monitored and regulated beach. Efforts here are aimed at educating visitors on how to be mindful and responsible stewards of the sea. Because of the crowds, I don't go here often and more frequently hike the trail from above which allows me to peer into the entire bay at once, and see the reef structure as a whole. When I do swim here, I like to bring visitors to show them the diversity of marine species here in this uniquely sheltered coral cove.
Winter on the North Shore means massive waves and endless surfing. Cars of surfers, beach-goers, and tourists wait in throngs of traffic to witness and experience the waves coming alive. Once the parking spot is found and you being walking to the sand the first glimmer of bright blue water and rolling waves instantly transports you to the meditative state of mind and balmy feeling of paradise that only the ocean can create.
