Overview
This tide pool is a local secret. It's off the beaten path. A miracle of nature. We'll use a jungle/lava rock coastal trail. Each way takes 15-20 minutes. Only your group will participate. You’ll learn about the pool's ecosystem and the local environment. You'll also have time to explore/relax privately.
- The pool is like an infinity pool overlooking cliffs. The water is crystal clear. You’ll see amazing views of the island. Sea turtles are a common sight in the ocean in the distance.
- The pool is like an aquarium with fish, hermit crabs, rock crabs, sea cucumbers, brittle stars, shrimp, snails, spaghetti worms, pink coralline algae, seaweed, shells, & cool rocks.
- The pool is calm/safe with a deep (3-5ft.) & shallow (1-3 ft.) area.
Itinerary
The hike is comprised of jungle and boulder fields. I don't recommend this hike for anyone with a disability or children under 5. The exact lower age cutoff depends on the child/parent. There's no upper age cutoff or fitness requirement. Please note that the tide pool is very rocky. The boulder fields on the hike and the rocks surrounding the pool are especially slippery during rainy conditions. While the pool it's often fully accessible, sometimes only certain parts are accessible. Almost always there's an area to submerge yourself. Rarely, the levels are too low or the conditions too rough for swimming. If the pool can’t be entered, there is still much to explore in the surrounding jungle and coastal area.
There are no ticks and very few mosquitoes.
What’s Included
Inclusions
- Recommendations for what else to do on Big Island.
- Teaching about the pool's ecosystem and the local environment.
- Guidance to the tide pool and time in the pool.
Meeting & Logistics
Meeting Point
Hawaii
Additional Info
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
- Wear hiking shoes, hiking sandals, or athletic shoes for the hike. Hiking shoes are most ideal. If you wear sandals, closed-toe are most ideal.
- Wear water shoes at the tide pool. Closed-toe shoes with durable soles are most ideal. I don't recommend flip flops.
- Wear a bathing suit and bring a towel. There are no bathrooms at the tide pool.
- Many people bring a snorkeling mask or goggles.
- Apply "reef safe" sunscreen before the hike to minimize its contact with the tide pool water. Bug spray is unnecessary because there are no ticks and very few bugs or mosquitoes.
- Some people bring a first aid kit (I don't carry one).
