This tide pool is my secret. It’s off the beaten path. We use a jungle/lava rock coastal trail. Each way is 30-40 min. (1/2 mile). I’ll teach you about the pool’s ecosystem and the local environment.

 

EXPERIENCE:

– On the hike, sea turtles are a common sight in the ocean in the distance.
– Waves strike the cliffs and shoot water in the air like a blowhole. A once-in-a-lifetime photo opportunity. (The height of the splash depends on the conditions.)
– The tide pool’s water is crystal clear. You’ll be alone because this spot is so unknown. You control how long we stay there.
– The pool has unique snails called “opihi”, spaghetti worms, pink algae, seaweed, and cool rocks.
– 10 minutes of the hike take place in the jungle while 20-30 minutes take place on the coast.

My name is Josh. I’m 33 years old. I’ve been hosting this experience for 3 years. I have a wide range of knowledge about Hawaii, with an emphasis on fruit trees and tide pool biology. I’ve lived off-grid in the jungles of Big Island since 2018. I’m good at adapting to the energy of the group, knowing when to give space and when to be more hands-on and informational. I was a philosophy major, so I’m interested in new ideas, which I love sharing with my groups. I spend my time making music and reading.

The hike is comprised of jungle, boulder fields, and jagged lava fields/hills. Parts of the hike are rugged with uneven/loose rocks. Some sections require scrambling. A few sections require you to ascend/descend a small hill of solid lava rock. There’s always a place to put your feet/hands & the lava is stable. I don’t recommend this hike for anyone with a disability/children under 7. The exact lower age cutoff depends on the child/parent. There’s no upper age cutoff or fitness requirement, although this experience is most ideal for adventurous people who enjoy physical activity.

While the tide pool is often fully accessible, sometimes only certain parts are accessible. Almost always there’s an area to submerge yourself. Rarely, the levels are too low or the conditions too rough for swimming.

There are no ticks and very few bugs or mosquitoes.

 

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS:

In addition to my teaching, you will have time to explore/relax privately.
Elevation gain on the hike offers amazing coastal views.
The tide pool is like an infinity pool overlooking cliffs. A miracle of nature.
In the pool: fish, hermit/rock crabs, sea cucumbers, shrimp, snails, shells etc.
The pool is calm/safe with a deep (4-7 ft.) and shallow (1-4 ft.) area.

 

 

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