Day Two started bright and early. I loved being able to get up at 5am without any trouble. Gave me time to go running before it got too hot. We were ambitious on our first full day in Kona. Chris and Kim were only on Kona for a few days and wanted to make the most of their time there. So, we jumped in the car and headed over 
to the other side of the island to see the volcanoes. The highlight of the drive was stopping at the Punalu'u Bake Shop. The sweet bread was unbelievable.Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park was a bit disappointing, mainly because we did not get to see the lava flowing into the ocean (too far to drive and you can't currently get very close to it). But we did get to see
lots of steam. (pictures to the left). It also rained a lot as you can tell by our "Kona Raincoats" or the towels we all wore. We definitely not ready for the cold or the rain. It was 80 degrees and sunny when we left Kona.On our way home we decided to swing through Hilo on our way back and take the Saddle Road (which bisects the island) and try to see the sunset from Mauna Kea.
First, we stopped at the black sand beach (picture right), which was very cool. Actually, a little too cold to swim, although there were a few crazies out there. We got up to the Visitor Center at 9,000 ft, but could not see anything. The whole peak was fogged in, another disappointing aspect of our day, although I am not sure that I 
have enjoyed a cup of hot chocolate as much as that one. Not wise to spend too much time at 9,000 feet with only shorts and t-shirts. Fortunately, on our way down the mountain back to Kona, we did get to again see the sun. What a day! We got to see a lot, but not a recommended trip for your first day on Kona.
