The Chance Family: Weekend Adventures: Hanauma Bay and Waimea Valley

As our time in Hawaii begins to wind down, we are trying to cross things off of our Hawaii bucket list. It will probably be a very long time until we find ourselves in the Aloha state again, so we want to make sure that we cherish this time and do all of the touristy things!! As Charlotte gets older, it is getting easier to take her around and more fun too as she really enjoys all of our adventures! She is most happy in the water or exploring in the ergo.

Last weekend we went to Hanauma Bay after a yummy lunch at Kona Brewing Company in Hawaii Kai. Hanauma Bay is famous for snorkeling, although we actually didn't make it into the water because it was a little chilly! If you aren't a Hawaii resident or military, the admission is $7 per person and $1 for parking. Before you can enter the park, you have to watch a 10 minute safety video. If you live here on the island, you can register your name and zip code so that you don't have to watch it every visit. After watching the video, you walk down the hill to the bay. You can also take a shuttle if you aren't keen on walking up and down. You can rent snorkel gear on site and there are bathrooms which is an added plus for Hawaii beaches! We enjoyed the view and sun for a few hours and Charlotte even took a nap.

Beer Sampling at Kona Brewing. We plan to visit the brewery on the Big Island in May

Hanauma Bay

Our Tommy Bahama Backpack Chairs have been one of our best purchases!

This weekend we went to Waimea Valley on the North Shore. We had planned to have lunch at one of our favorite places in Haleiwa at Opal Thai, but it was randomly closed for "restaurant renovations". So, we had lunch at Haleiwa Joe's instead! After that, we ventured to Waimea Valley to view the gardens and Waimea Falls. After a nice leisurely walk up to the falls, we got changed into our suits and went swimming in the 68 degree water! We took turns as someone had to stay back with Charlotte. Kyle went first and I followed after! You are required to wear lifejackets and as I was getting ready to walk in, the lifeguard told me to stay away from the left side as rocks commonly fall into the water. Wow, that sounded safe! The water was cold, but once I took the plunge it actually felt good! It was definitely an experience and totally worth it!