In the morning, we drove up to Kikiaola Harbor near Waimea to catch a 4-hour tour on a catamaran that would cruise us up along the Na Pali coast. We got a short bout of rain but for the most part the weather was cooperative.
Leaving the harbor ... while rain continued to bombard the land.
Immediately we were greeted by some Spinner dolphins (also sometimes called long-snouted dolphins). These small dolphins are renowned for their acrobatic spins and flips.
The cliffs at the end of Polihale State Park signal the start of the Na Pali coast .... A mountain goat!
Incredible lava tubes at Polihale Cliff
Miloli'i Beach ... and a view north from Alapi'i Point
'Awa'awapuhi Valley
We arrived at the Open Ceiling Cave and went in. Many of the sea caves here are formed by the harsh waves slamming against the porous lava rock. This one, however, is actually a hollowed-out lava tube.
Entering the cave
Inside
Passing Waiahuakua Sea Cave (or Pirates' Cave) ... and Honopu Beach with its spectacular lava arch (much easier to see from the air!)
Honopu Beach ... and looking under the arch
We reached Kalalau Beach then turned and began the journey back.
Kalalau Beach and its famous "cathedrals" ... the view back down the coast
This time we quickly swung into Pirate's Cave.
More playful dolphins
The weather was nice enough for snorkeling, so the boat stopped briefly at Makole (the reef in front of Polihale Cliff) for those who wished to swim with the fishes.
The water was filled with Black Triggerfish or Durgeon (aka Humuhumu'ele'ele) and grey Hawaiian Chub (or Nenue).
Once everyone was back on board, we set a course back for the harbor.
