Haleakala Friday

Friday morning we woke up early and headed to Haleakala National Park.  The main part Haleakala is the summit and huge "depression" that features cinder cones and other lava formations from the last time this shield volcano erupted.  We did a couple of easy hikes and saw some fantastic views. Dave and Barb did wistfully remember the last time they were here and made the strenuous hike down into the depression.  Sean did not like the cold wind at all - earning him a new nickname "I-Don't-Wanna bird" (after myna birds)  His normal nickname on this trip has been prince nene (prince of the flightless geese.)

After a rest and lunch we headed to one of the beaches off Makena for the afternoon.  We saw two huge turtles while snorkeling as well as an eel, lots of tropical fish, and huge sea urchins.  Sean spent almost the entire time running in the surf, most of that time spent chasing sticks Dave would throw in the water.  Sean pretty much lost his fear of the surf and had a great time.  We dined at Cheeseburger Island Style and then called it quits much earlier that night - everyone was tired.

 Haleakala

 Haleakala

Cold, very windy, trail on Haleakala

 Sean in surf at Makena Beach

Sean taking a quick break from playing on the beach