The incredible volcanic formations and columnar basalt along the rugged southern shore of Maui.
What an adventure! We had unusual winds today here in Maui. The trade winds shifted due to a big low pressure system north of the islands, which blew pretty strong winds down directly from the north. On these rare occasions, the southern part of Maui usually opens up as an option for snorkeling and kayaking type activities. Every other day this rugged lava rock coastline is slammed by winds and waves, and remains unexplored. But not today!
We traveled south, past all the buildings and resorts, until all we saw were lava flows, forming picturesque cliffs where the island met the ocean. Caves could be seen in the lava as well, so I immediately thought how cool it would be to get a kayak into those caves. Mission accepted.
Not only did we explore some caves, and see columnar basalt formations close up, but we ended up traveling the length of La Perouse Bay for a total of four miles. It was an epic adventure, and the guests were totally along for the ride. I did get into a little bit of hot water when I reached the NW corner of La Perouse Bay. I knew it was a non-motorized zone, being part of the protected Ahihi-Kinau Protected Area, no motor boats are allowed. But I did not know that the little bay in the NW corner, was the only privately owned ocean water and beach in Maui. There is one very nice private property on this corner, and it was bought by Jeff Bezos, of Amazon.com fame, back in 2021....for $78 million. So one of his security detail raced across the rocks to tell me I was trespassing. Woops.
But after a very civilized conversation and a warning I headed out with my group to explore some more nooks and crannies of the lava flow. Then, with the wind at our backs, we pretty much sailed back to our mother ship.
Here I am in the blue and green kayak with the yellow rash guard, about to enter this sea cave.
Regrouping in la Perouse bay after fighting the wind to get there.
This is me, going full send on the kayak demo. Gotta give the guests some entertainment.
I totally meant to do this.
The start of our journey. The guests had no idea what they were in for. It was amazing!
This was me, thinking about paddling into that cave. I did.
The view from deep inside the sea cave.
Paddling past the columnar basalt.
This columnar basalt is a natural formation that occurs when the lava is cooling under pressur.
First mission, shooting the anchor chain!
It is so fun to paddle around the lava flows because of all the narrow little passages and swim-throughs that formed.
Paddling in calm, beautiful conditions.
The land here is all closed, but I didn't know the water was as well. Learn something new everyday.
Paddling into calm tidepools created by the lava.
I was so proud of my guests. They really handled the wind, and the narrow passages so well. Not to mention the 4 mile distance!
Just enough room to make it through that gap.
Me, direction traffic, in front of the sea cave.
