A short walk away, I eased down lava steps into Honaunau Bay's crystal waters to snorkel among spectacular coral and multicolored fish. Visitor brochures encouraged us to enjoy picnics at two terrific snorkeling beaches. We enjoyed a stroll around ancient fish ponds and village remains. To experience secluded Pololu Valley, we joined two guides and another couple for Hawaii Forest and Trail's traditional mule trek. Wally, mule mentor and mountain man, explained how well adapted mules are for managing steep rocky trails.
Mules are strong and stubbornly steady.
Spaced advantageously, mule eyes keep track of every sure step. The 500 foot descent along a narrow trail provided breathtaking coastal vistas at each switch back. Taro, passion fruit, tangerines, and many medicinal plants still thrive in the meadows. We meandered along the trail taking in forest fragrances and bird fanfares. Crossing a creek, we proceeded over grassy sand dunes into an ironwood grove.