It is sad for all of us to know the loss and suffering that the people of Japan are going through. However, I want to insure potential visitors to the Hawaiian Islands that from what we have seen and heard no substantial damage can be reported from the tsunami that the horrific earthquake generated.
Al and I own both Maui Kai 504 and Keauhou Kona Surf and Racquet Club # 2 and had just flown into Maui the day that the tsunami took place. Our condo on the fifth floor was above the tsunami danger height, so we decided to stay in our condo and watch from the lanai rather than evacuate to designated centers. We were invited by another owner to come up to his family’s unit on the eighth floor where we chatted and watched. From there, we saw the surf recede to the other side of the reef (which was fascinating) but no wave of any consequence ever came into shore. Although some hotels and condos experienced first floor flooding and many boat harbors had their boats tossed about and damaged, our area fortunately was left untouched, both the condos and the lengthy beach area down to Black Rock as well as Whalers Village on the other side of Black Rock. As a matter of fact, we dined there the next night. Some of Kahului around the harbor had flooding but when we went into town two days later everything seemed to be up and operational and back to normal.
I do not mean to downplay the dangers inherent in such a natural occurrence, we offer our observations that Maui did not experience any lasting damage that should give visitors pause for concern that the islands are less than the paradise they have always been.
Although we were not in Kona on the Big Island during the tsunami. our on-island person who resides in the townhome next to ours at Keauhou Kona Surf and Racquet Club. has kept us informed of post wave circumstances. The complex, again fortunately, was left untouched by any surging waves. The town of Kona did have heavy wave action come over its seawall and flood some shops, restaurants and hotels along the main drag. Our latest report suggests, however, that all except for one restaurant (Kona Inn that is working on electrical) is back in operation and that includes Bubba Gump’s, the Fish Hopper, and the King Kamahamaha Hotel. The community is truly rallying to get things back to normal and as beautiful as ever. The Aloha Spirit is alive and well.
This is only a limited picture of Hawaii (post tsunami ), but I believe it portrays a vibrant vacation destination, ready to bring pleasure and adventure as always. Hawaii awaits your visit whether for the first time and a return.
Thank you!
Lyn and Al. Owners:
Keauhou Kona Surf and Racquet Club townhome 2
Maui Kai Beach Resort condo 504
