The Big Island

Hawaiian Sacred Temple Area for the King

Lava Wall built 400 years ago without mortar

Turtle Town.  Dozens sunning themselves and swimming in the tide pools.

Beautiful soft sand, blue clear water, sunsets.  That's the idyl picture of Hawaii and we soaked in it for two solid weeks

The volcano!  Smoke billowing out, but it's not active.  Fun to see from the different viewing points.  We did not see flowing lava however I guess you can if you take the helicopter ride.

Aloha!  Live band and hula dancer in the waiting area of the Hilo airport.  Beautiful voices and harmonies....all for your listening/viewing pleasure while you wait for your flight.
Now the comparison of Maui to Hawaii.  Maui is much more beautiful, but Hawaii really seeps into you and you love it as well.  If I could choose to live on one of those islands?  I would have to do 1/2 and 1/2 b/c Hawaii felt like there was more local life, but there are tons more tourists in Maui for a reason, it's gorgeous.  I did love having the temple to go to, so that just might be the tipping point.  We didn't have any rain while we were there, just sun and tropical breezes.  I'm up for living there Tom, are you 'in'???