It was early in December when I visited Laupahoehoe Point Park on Hawaii Island for the first time. It is a beautiful park on the North east side of the island. The palm trees on the grassy lawn, situated on the ocean front was a perfect location for a picnic. I pulled into a parking area and got out to explore the ocean and rocks. I had passed this place many times on my visits to Hilo but this time seemed the perfect day to stop.
After satisfying my curiosity at the ocean, I wandered over to a rest area with an information board. I was fascinated to read that this was the location of a Fools’ Day, April 1 tsunami in 1946. 24 people lost their lives that day when 56 foot waves came crashing down on this small village.
It is peaceful now and those who come here can feel the spirit of those who lost their lives.
As I was making my way back to the car I noticed another couple at the parking area. A woman was struggling with a wheel chair so I offered my help. She thanked me and asked if I wanted to meet her husband. When I walked up to the window I recognized him. It was Jaws, Richard Kiel. There he sat, all 7 feet 1 1/2 inches tall, cramped into that little rental car. He apologized for not getting out, explaining he had been in a serious auto accident and had difficulty walking. He introduced his wife Diane. She wasn’t much over 5 feet tall. They have four children and have been married for many years.
Jaws is also the name that the Hawaiians give to another phenomenon, big wave surfing. Surfers are towed out to surf giant 25 to 50 foot waves. Watching pros attack these waves is an exhilarating experience.
My visit to the park that day is a memorable one in many ways, not only for the beauty of a Hawaiian scenic beach and meeting Richard and Diane, but for the memory of all those who lost their lives here.
