Day 20

Today's activity was a trip to Fern Grotto. We arrived at the boat dock on the Waimea River over an hour too early so just hung out in the shade. Got on the barge boat for the 11:30 cruise. It was another hokey event. Actually the commentary going upriver was interesting. After a 2.5 mile ride along deserted riverbanks (used in many movies) we landed at Fern Grotto. The grotto was less impressive than it used to be. It lost a lot of ferns in some of the hurricanes and then when a sugar company ceased operations, a leaky holding pond was shut, closing off some water supply. We found this out later. It was hot as hell at the grotto and unfortunately Not Worth The Trip.

The ride back was the hokey part, with the tired-looking band and dancer doing the tour bus hula stuff. Hawaii needs to move on past the old hula image; it's getting old.

Stopped at an L&L for a locals' fast food lunch. Sort of half burger stand and Chinese fast food. Jill wasn't thrilled with their cleanliness but Kristen and I liked their cheap burgers and fries, $17.

Then followed the Waimea River into the central area of the island, one of the few roads on which you can do so. Saw Opaeka'a Falls from a nice vantage point.

Costco gas and checked out a ukulele (!) that I'm probably going to buy. Then back for a couple of hours poolside, where a gecko  crawled up in Jill's armpit, causing a scream.Tried dinner at Tropical Burger but got bad vibes and didn't like the drink or appetizer so headed back to Keoki's for bar food - salad, fish taco, etc. plus drinks. $56.

Day 21 >>>