| Imagine awakening to dawn's first light glistening on a | | | | stress fragile coastlines and often support mega |
| sleepy blue ocean. The day's sun bathers and | | | | corporations outside of Hawaii) means more to spend |
| swimmers haven't yet arrived. The silence is broken | | | | on special mementos, good fun and local merchants |
| only by the rising tide splashing into tide pools, kissing | | | | and artists. Shopping at a grower's market for |
| the starfish and urchins. The beach is yours! Or | | | | example is a nice alternative to spending $4 for half a |
| imagine pitching a tent in Volcanoes National Park. As | | | | papaya in a resort. For a great campsite breakfast, |
| daylight fades and a soothing fragrance from the rain | | | | pick up some fresh fruit (how's five papayas for a |
| splashed Eucalyptus wafts through the cool air, an | | | | buck sound?), mac nut bread and Kona coffee ("talk |
| outdoor fireplace provides cozy warmth. | | | | story" with locals while you're there, and you'll learn a |
| The sounds are soothing: rain gently splashing on the | | | | lot more than you will lounging at a resort). Then |
| pavilion's roof and the broad shiny leaves of | | | | there are the kayaking adventures, sunset dinner |
| surrounding plants, the crackling fire, and the hushed | | | | cruises (even frugal, backpacker types appreciate a |
| chirping of native birds nesting in the high canopy of | | | | little wining and dining!), horseback riding on the beach, |
| massive Koa and Eucalyptus that stand sentinel. E | | | | snorkeling with the dolphins...well you get the idea! |
| komo mai (welcome) to camping in the Hawaiian | | | | Pitching a tent on a tropical beach or in a fragrant |
| Islands! | | | | volcano forest is easy in Hawaii where campgrounds |
| While Hawaii's world renowned luxury resorts are | | | | range from drive-up parks with full amenities to |
| tempting, one might do well to trade in those plastic | | | | wilderness settings accessible only to hikers. Public |
| lei and simulated waterfalls for a taste of true | | | | campgrounds are run by Hawaii's National Parks, |
| Paradise, at least for a night or two. | | | | State Parks and County Parks and are as prolific in |
| And spending less at pricey resorts (that tend to | | | | Hawaii as papayas. |