Watch Where you Step! -- Exploring the Tidal Pools of Hawaii's Kona Coast

On our vacation to Hawaii this year, my husband and I stayed on the beautiful Kona Coast.  In fact, right on the grounds of our hotel we found what proved to be one of the highlights of our visit: a series of tidal pools just teeming with life.

The tidal pools were visible right from our balcony.

On the very first morning of our trip, we looked down and were able to see half a dozen sea turtles feasting on the algae in the nearest pool.

The landscape is a dramatic one.  These aren't sandy beaches but rather swirls of black lava rock.

These pools just called out to be explored, and you can wade right in, although waders must be wary of where they step, and wearing surf shoes is a must!

The tidal pools are teeming with life.  There are the ever-present sea turtles, which I could sit and watch for hours as they feasted in the shallow waters...

...and urchins in every color...

...an assortment of crabs...

...and a whole host of other critters...

...and everywhere, an amazing array of coral as the reef tries to rebuild itself after being nearly decimated...

There is so much wonder and joy in exploring this alien world so close to our own and watching these amazing creatures not in an aquarium, but rather in their own element.