Finding the Mermaid Cave in Nanakuli

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Nanakuli Cave - June 9, 2015

The plan today was to do Ohikilolo to the cabin. But as we were hiking, Erik had some major tightness in his chest. I played it by ear as maybe it would go away. But 2 1/2 hours into the hike, it got worst, so we decided to bail on Ohikilolo and save it for another time. 

Aprille said we could visit the Nanakuli Cave because it was nearby. I decided to take the group to the the Ku'ilioloa Heiau (I couldn't remember the name at the time) first. The heiau is adjacent to Pokai Bay and was used in ancient times to teach navigational skills. After a short stay at the heiau, I drove us to Laumania Ave. near a beach in Nanakuli where Aprille said the cave was. There were a lot of people at the unnamed beach.

I parked near the parking lot on a road and Aprille lead us to some rocks near the shore. There was an opening in the rocks and Aprille jumped inside. She said the tide was high today, but when its low, you can walk into the cave. We didn't have enough room to hang out because the water level was high. The tide was roaring and the water felt strong. We were worried that it would pull us out into the ocean. I tried to snap a few pictures, but couldn't get a nice angle. Maybe on a good day, we would get to see the cave in all its glory. For today, at least Aprille showed us the spot and that in itself is awesome.  

The beach where cave is located


Nanakuli Cave, high tide

We were super hungry after visiting the cave. The PHM in the Waianae area is at Sushi Bay in Kapolei. The quality of ingredients they use is top notch, added to reasonably priced items and you'll get a great meal at an affordable price. We had to wait 30 minutes to get seated, but it was well worth the wait. Erik gets the garlic hamachi every time. The most popular item by far is the Mix Don, two different kinds of poke with rice topped with onions and green onions. It was so good!!! 

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