Micronesia: August 2015
A rather forceful introduction to the heat and humidity early in the morning, with an extra dose of tourist madness by late morning. Fortunately the situation improved rapidly after that, with a stop malasadas at Leonard's, a mistaken identitity stop at Ono Hawaiian Foods (they very graciously directed us to Ono Seafood up the street), and load of very delicious poke (both ahi tuna and tako (octopus)) at Ono Seafood.
I've had ahi poke as good, but the taro was superb in both flavor and texture.Malasadas in original, guava, and macademia nut at Leonard's were awesome, although the macademia nut had a much more mild flavor than expected. Perfect fuel for the next stop, which was Hanauma Bay. Made it close to high tide as well, which meant it was beautiful-- and crowded.
High tide pulling out meant that Halona Blowhole just down the road was a bit dull, but t'was all good. A little further drive up the road was Makapu'u Point and its tidepools (and homeless encampments), then a ton of pouring rain on the drive up to Kahuku.
Fortunately it stayed clear and beautiful, and we got to enjoy our piles of shrimp and drinks. Somewhat overcooked and the rice was Japanese-style soft, but the other tourists appeared to enjoy their meals. Having been to every other shrimp truck on previous visits, it was rapidly deterined that Famous Kahuku Shrimp Truck or Romy's might've been worth visiting again, but that plan was foiled due to a lack of stomach space!
Finally made it to Matsumoto Shaved Ice in Haleiwa. First time despite all the previous visits to Hawaii, and it provided to be worth it. $3.75 worth of shaved ice shouldn't be this good, but somehow it is! Kaitie got the Ichiban Special, which was even better than the regular rainbow. Brief stop at Island Vintage Coffee and the grocery store next door for souvniers and coffee, and then back to Honolulu!
Dropped off Kaitie, picked up a few more malasadas at Leonard's (it was practically next door!), and then off to hang out with Clement and his buddies for a bit at their deceptively ghetto, but highly pimp pad before waiting in another long line to return the rental car. A fancy grilled cheese and tomato soup for dinner, too-- thanks guys!
Topped off the night with a stop at Marukame Udon. Cafeteria-style, very quick service, and holy crap, the udon is both cheap and delicious. Well worth the stop, even if you're already full!