My first dip into the Hawaiian waters
Gray, coarse sand; non-exhilarating waves; and murky shore; that’ how beaches looked like to me until I had my first plunge into the Hawaiian waters — white, fine sad; thrill-filled waves; and clear, blue waters.
It was in September of 2002. My elder sister Dolour tugged us along (my friends and I) to Hukilau Beach, just a stone-throw away from BYUH. The first sight of the azure sky, crystal-clear waters, boosted by the calm kiss of fresh air and the soothing touch of the non-scorching sun, made us charge the tempting sea! Our being non-swimmers made it absurd to do so; yet armed with a blue bogey board, and my sister with a disposable camera, at once we documented the exciting experience! The board was the least thing we would use to ride the unwavering waves since our sea skills are not suited for a surfing board yet. After a few tries, following my Ate Dolour’s instructions, and taking turns, we had the ride of our lives; caught in camera.
September 2, 2002
Afterwards, we enjoyed relaxing seawater staying within waist-level. At the same time, we soaked ourselves with good chit-chats leaving us unaware of the water reaching up to our chin! Upon realizing that we are close to submersion, we inevitably panicked holding our heads as high as we could; with lips firmly closed to avoid swallowing saltwater. This disabled us to call for help. My sister by the seashore, seeing only half of our faces, yelled frantically for us to draw near the shore. No lifeguards present, we were on a swim-at-your-own-risk beach. Tiptoed, hoping it would help, we inched our way towards at least at a shoulder-level, till we reached safety.
Ironically, throughout the effort of basically saving our own lives, we were half freaking out…half laughing! How silly we still afforded some chuckling.
That was a high tide in a matter of minutes; coupled by a strong pull of the water’s current.
Later I realized, we were like thoughtless tots who can’t wait to have fun in one of nature’s beauteous cradles unknowing of the hidden danger it may bring. Also, the current was tough; way stronger than that of Philippines. If beaches here would take you approximately twenty feet to go knee-deep, one step on the North Hawaiian shores would sink you immediately till the thighs.
Lesson learned: bizarre beauty impends random risk. North Shore’s bizarre beauty though, was irresistible; so, that dip which literally almost cost us our lives was followed by numerous, more adventure-filled beach escapades.
Category: CHIT-chats, Feature Stories
I took that picture
I miss the Hawaiian beaches!
I seem to feel the cool waters of Hukilau while reading this feature. I remember my first time to dip my feet in that place one twilight in Hawaii.
I really miss Hawaii, too.
How I wish missing Hawaii too.. never been there…
when i think of a beach, i can imagine a wonderful,calming sight of clear, blue water and beatiful nature surrounding it.how i wish,i can visit the place myself someday !
I remembered when I went to Hukilau with kuya thelmo and ate dolour. It was super high tide… I think it was a december holiday and the tide was so high… not a good idea especially when its getting dark. Nothing beats something free and nice sunset though.
hindi nga? sinong kasama mo non? parang di ko maalala yan a. hehe.. basta maalala ko sarap nung araw na un, un lagi ang binabalik balikan ko pag namimiss ko kau at ang dagat dun .
Lucky me, I live here in hawaii. I could go to the beach anyday if I want. I cherish everything what we have in the paradise. The white fine sand and clear blue sky @ the beaches, the shopping mall that aren’t too far to drive, the spirit of aloha that locals have to name a few. The best of all is the hawaiian weather, it doesn’t get really hot during the summer.
That’s right. You’re so lucky sis and the rest of our brothers and sisters who are already there. My short stints to Hawaii every time there are occasions are indeed unforgettable. Thanks sis for being a good host. See you again some other time. Aloha and Mahalo!