Today we transferred from Hilo to the laid-back hippie town on Pahoa where we started a 28-mile loop. We had two major climbs today that had my quads screaming – one 4-mile climb leaving town and then one five mile climb back up after leaving the coastline. There were stunning views of the coastline as well as lush vegetation hugging the road for many miles. On the second climb, we also had a strong head wind of about 17 mph. Although we only road about 28 miles, it was another hard day in the saddle.
We stopped for many pictures along the waterfront. We were supposed to stop at the Black Sand Beach, but someone we managed to bike right past it. We finally had a convenient lunch stop and most of us got a local smoothie – mine was mango.
Three riders backtracked after lunch and they were rewarded with more great views. The rest of us headed back and stopped at the Star of the Sea Painted Church that was built between 1927 – 1928. The paintings in the church tell the story of a Belgian priest who helped leprosy patients on the island of Lolokai .
One of my favorite stops of the day was thanks to our shuttle ride to Volcano Village. On the way, we stopped at Akatsuka Orchid Gardens. I treated myself to several orchid purchases that will arrive home a couple of days after me.
We are staying at the Hale Ohia Cottages (a local B&B). The original house was built in 1932.
We had a mishap on our walk to dinner when Rita twisted her ankle on some uneven pavement. We got her to her room, ice on the ankle and brought her and Dave food back from the restaurant.
Another view from the Hilo Hawaiian.
Before we started out today.
Janet and Sue discussing the day so far.
Ellen and Donna.
Star of the Sea Painted Church.
Star of the Sea Painted Church.
