We spent about a third of our time on Big Island just relaxing on a few of its more popular beaches. This is Kauna 'oa Beach (Mauna Kea Beach), a long crescent of white sand embraced by two lava points at the head of Kauna 'oa Bay. We found the water always warm enough for swimming and snorkeling. But just resting on our grass mats under the shade of coconut palms was a pleasure in itself as we watched the ocean and other beach visitors or napped peacefully to the soothing calm sounds of the gentle waves breaking upon the shore. Mauna Kea Beach Hotel at center right of photo is one of the most elegant resorts on the Hawaiian Islands.

When we arrived late morning this beach was not very populated. Nevertheless, we noticed quickly that there were no shady spots to set up camp and, not being guests at the Mauna Kea Beach Hotel, we did not have free beach umbrella privileges. But luckily that little nook behind the yellow flag (marking the boundary of Mauna Kea Beach Resort) was unoccupied and we soon made ourselves at home in there, the perfect shady spot for an afternoon picnic.

The north view from our private covert. It was a glorious day for the beach.

The view directly across from our picnic spot: blue sky and friendly clouds, warm ocean, gradual-sloping shelf, soft white sand, soothing sea breeze. Ahhhhhhh... I can almost still hear the gentle waves splashing upon the shore before us. Were we in Paradise? Maybe, but Dorothy and I were quite sure this wasn't Kansas!