The Island of Hawai'i: Mantas, Mangoes & Poke Obsession

Trip Overview

This was one of those trips that just felt good: sunshine, friends, poke, a lot of ocean time, and an actual fruit stand that felt like it came from an Instagram fever dream.

Katie and I met up with our friends Michal and Magda, flew into Kona, and stayed with even more wonderful friends who opened their home to us for the visit. The whole trip was a mix of ocean adventures, laid-back moments, and a lot of laughter—especially once the incredibly whitening reef-safe sunscreen that makes you look like a ghost came out.

It wasn't just a beach vacation—it was a full experience of Big Island life, lava rocks and all.

Most Memorable Moments

Manta Ray Night Dive

This was unforgettable. Katie and I went scuba, Michal and Magda snorkeled above, and we all watched these massive creatures swoop and spin through beams of light, filtering plankton. It was a little choppy (okay, a lot), but once we were in the water, it was magic. There's nothing like seeing a shadow the size of a car glide silently toward you.

Morning Snorkel Boat Tour

Two stops—Rob's Reef and Captain Cook Monument—and both delivered. There were eels, colorful fish, even a rare butterflyfish usually found deeper than 40 feet. We had a great vegan lunch on board and finished with mai tais.

Surfing with Surfer Bro Max

We all got up on our boards—Katie crushed it, and the rest of us gave it a solid effort. Magda got knocked into the rocks (ow), but lived to surf another day. Our instructor was every surfer stereotype in the best possible way.

Beach Days & Wildlife

Beach 69 stole the show—relaxing shade, soft sand, clean bathrooms, and bonus: sea turtles and even a seal munching moss near shore.

Poke + Shave Ice + Donuts (Repeat)

First stop after landing: poke. Last night before leaving: more poke. The poke obsession was real (Magda especially), and totally justified. Add in shave ice almost every day, and <em>those</em> donuts after the beach day—and you've got a very well-fed group.

Fruit Stand Heaven

We hit a roadside stand after the Waipiʻo Valley lookout (incredible views), and it was peak tropical energy: sour sop, lychee, pineapple, mango, bananas, and more. Plus, fresh coconuts you drink and then crack open for the good stuff inside.

Logistics & Practical Information

ACCOMMODATION

With friends near Kona—shoutout to Lisa and Mike who made our stay lovely.

TRANSPORTATION

A rental car was essential for exploring the island, especially heading north and hitting all the beach stops.

NOTABLE FOOD

Poke, again and again (Pa'akai Poke was our favorite)
Shave ice at Scandinavian Shave Ice
Açaí bowls with honey and fresh fruit
Kai Eats and Drinks – pizza, fish and chips, lemon fries, all wins
That donut stop (yes, still dreaming about them)

ACTIVITIES

Snorkel boat tour to Rob's Reef and Captain Cook Monument (Fair Wind Cruises)
Manta ray night dive/snorkel (we did this with Manta Ray Dives of Hawai'i however Fair Wind is better if you only have snorkelers)
Surfing lesson with Surfer Bro Max (Ohana Surf Lessons)
Beach 69 + turtles + perfect swimming
Waipiʻo Valley lookout
Waipi'o Fruit Shack: fruit stand + coconut station of dreams

Tips for Travelers

Bring Multiple Swimsuits

You'll want dry, non-smelly options.

Rash Guards Are a Must

Sun protection and ocean comfort.

Use Reef-Safe Sunscreen

It's important!—just prepare to look like a chalky warrior.

Rent a Car

Essential for exploring beaches and hidden gems.

Don't Miss Beach 69

Perfect for a mellow, turtle-filled beach day.

Motion Sickness Meds

If you're doing a night dive/snorkel, bring motion sickness meds just in case.

Reflections & Final Thoughts

This trip was one of those lovely, layered getaways that mixes adventure with rest in all the right ways. Everyone brought great energy, and being able to spend so much time in the ocean—especially scuba diving with manta rays—was something I'll hold onto.

Also: donuts hit different when you've been snorkeling for hours.

And I think the ocean might actually be good for the soul.