Hawaii Trip Recap: Day 1 (11/13/10)

Much of this day was spent on planes, as it's a long trip from the east coast. A reeeeeallly long trip. Had a bit of a close call with our connection in Phoenix, as we got there half an hour early, but then there was a broken down plane at our gate. By the time we waited that situation out, we were pressed for time and had to undertake one of those frantic, bob and weave jogs through the airport (luckily our only luggage was backpacks). Made the connection and actually got into the Kona International Airport early, arriving mid-afternoon.

Our rental rig for the week was a soft top Jeep Wrangler. I've always kinda wanted one of those, so this was like a weeklong test drive. A fun vehicle once I finally figured out how to get the top down (it's not hard, you just need a little practice).

Our first order of business was to find the bed and breakfast where we'd spend the first couple of nights. A scenic 40-minute drive brought us to Captain Cook. This charming little town is situated high on the hills overlooking Kealakekua Bay. Our B&B, the Belle Vue did indeed have a beautiful view. Really a nice little place. Our host Viviane was warm and friendly without being intrusive, and was full of helpful hints about things to do in the area.

The driveway down to the B&B (much steeper than it looks here).

Not much in the way of picture-taking from the first day; we just wanted to relax, begin to soak in the atmosphere and get ready for the rest of the trip. But first, a hearty meal was in order. My never-ending search for culinary delights led us to little joint called Annie's Island Fresh Burgers. Great choice! ~Pats self on back~ These were without a doubt some of the best burgers that have gone down the ol' gullet. The (Big Island-raised) hand pressed patties were advertised as half pounders, but they seemed even larger. Juicy, succulent, perfectly cooked to medium rare (the only way to eat a burger) and not shy with the salt and pepper. The buns were appropriately sized to contain the monsters, and sturdy to boot, with a pleasant but unintrusive flavor, leaving the meat to be the rightful star of the show. The accompanying produce was very fresh. Decent fries, great tempura onion rings, and our first pints of fresh Kona Brewing Company beer rounded out the mail. A destination-worthy burger joint.

On the way back to Belle Vue, we stopped at the local supermarket for some more beer. Home cookin' (Deschutes Inversion IPA) for me, the surprisingly excellent Kona Big Swell Golden Ale for Rhonda. The day ended with a couple of brews on the deck and going to bed with the chickens when we couldn't make it any longer (6:30 for Rhonda, 8:00 for me).