My trip to Hawaii

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My recent trip to Hawaiʻi’s Big Island gave me the opportunity to experience an entirely new marine ecosystem and gain a deeper appreciation for the interconnectedness of Earth’s natural systems.

One of the highlights was a nighttime manta ray swim, where I observed these gentle filter feeders up close as they moved through the water. I also witnessed a humpback whale breach, a powerful reminder of the incredible marine life that relies on Hawaiʻi’s waters throughout its annual migration.

Beyond the ocean, I visited Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park shortly after an eruption. Feeling the warmth radiating from recent lava flows and seeing freshly formed volcanic landscapes firsthand was a striking reminder that the islands themselves are still being shaped by active geological processes.

Experiencing a marine ecosystem so different from Florida’s reinforced my passion for environmental science and reminded me how closely connected our oceans, wildlife, and landscapes truly are.

Below are some collages I made from the trip, soo many beautiful pics I had to share! :)