Ok, so the jetlag is getting better but we were both up by 0500 so decided to make an early start and drive round the coast to the historic whaling trading centre and capital, Lahaina.
On the way we stopped at a wetland sanctuary and saw several wading birds from the board walk before walking back along the beach, before the temperature hit 85 deg.
We followed our noses and, more by luck than judgement, arrived at the the central square, which is home to an enormous banyan tree and imaginatively called Banyan Tree Square . These trees drop tendrils from their branches that spread roots that become additional trunks. The result is an enormous tree with many secondary trunks that fills that the entire square. After enjoying the shade for a while we decided to follow the historic walk. As with most american historic walks the 'historic' sites aren't actually that old but we did stumble across the old prison, which had been the home to rowdy whalers charged with such offences as drunkenness and riding furiously. Although technically incarcerated the prison was a pretty nice place to be. It was set in a walled garden containing a mango tree, a bread fruit tree and banana palms so their diet was pretty tasty. Additionally the prison contained male and female prisoners and during the day they were allowed into the garden to pretty much do as they please. Needless to say many of them did!
After the walk we had lunch at an out of the way sea front restaurant (shack) that was recommended by the Lonely Planet guide. Great food, great beer, a shaded view of the sea and a visit from the local mongoose. We'll be following their recommendations some more.
We then visited a Japanese temple that had a Pagoda, Buddha statue and large bell and was very peaceful.
On our return to Kihei we headed for the beach to cool off in the sea and watch the sunset.
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| Banyan Tree Square |
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| The Prison |
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| Japanese Temple |
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