Lanikai Pillboxes

I can see clearly now, the rain is gone,
I can see all obstacles in my way
Gone are the dark clouds that had me blind
It’s gonna be a bright (bright), bright (bright)
Sun-Shiny day.

-Johnny Nash

The weather this afternoon made for the perfect day for a hike to the bunkers high above Lanikai Beach on Ka’iwa ridge. These bunkers were built during World War II and served as lookout stations since their location gives a 360 degree view of the entire area.

Once we got started, I knew why Matt suggested we stretch. The first part of the trail is very steep and a strenuous climb. It wasn't long before my legs were feeling the strain. But after a brief rest at the first level spot, it really wasn't that bad.

The trail head to the bunkers. Check out how steep it is!

The trail is pretty rocky. If you look at the top of the ridge you can see the first bunker, just to the left of the highest peak.

The views are stunning from the trail and I stood in awe and wonder at the beauty that surrounds me. The ocean is on one side and the mountains and lake on the other. The terrain changed from forest, to dry, red dirt, to almost desert-like complete with cactus. The sky was filled with fluffy white clouds and the temperature was perfect.

A beautiful view on the way up with much more to come.

We continued our ascent to the first of two bunkers. I was surprised to feel a bit of queasiness in my stomach as I climbed onto the first first graffiti cover structure. The view was just breathtaking as I fought the butterflies in my stomach. This was just too spectacular to miss.

Yeah! I made it.

Some of the graffiti inside the bunker.

After enjoying the panoramic view and resting our legs, we continued up to the grand finale, bunker number two that is at an elevation of approximately 600 feet. From this vantage you can see in all directions. I felt as if I had a bird's-eye view of the world. As we sat atop the bunker, a large sea bird came floating by, riding on the thermals. What a surreal sight.

Standing on top of the second bunker...uh, do I look nervous?

The only way in or out of this bunker.

The look out window where the gun turrets were.

Me and Matty.

Matt did a great job composing this photo.

All good things must come to an end and we began our descent which in some ways was a bit more challenging. Because of the roughness of the trails, you really have to pay attention to your footing. We made it down without any problems and I was pretty pleased with myself that was able to make this trek with very little difficulty. Guess all that walking I've done has paid off.

On the way down.

These cactus flowers were beautiful and so unexpected.

I haven't forgotten about my art either. However, with a nice break in the weather and the kids' having a bit more time off, I've been enjoying exploring and spending time with them. I do have one more piece of art to share with you. I created this design from my imagination, then painted it with watercolor on paper.  I have also continued to explore my fascination with mermaids. My desire it to be able to carry all of this enthusiasm with me as I journey home in a couple of days. Thanks for reading!
 

Plumeria wreath - watercolor on paper