akaka falls | Living Mint Green

On Sunday morning, Court and I braved rainy weather and set out for Akaka Falls. As usual, a quick pit stop was made at the Pahoa Farmers Market for lettuce, pineapple and bananas. This is one of the bigger markets in the area, taking place every Sunday.

How does everyone feel about me bringing home Musubi as souvenirs? Guess what’s in them…

If you didn’t guess Spam, you’re not getting a souvenir.

So many greens!

Another pit stop was made at Short & Sweet bakery in Hilo. One of my family members highly recommended the bake shop as a ‘must eat at’ destination and we weren’t disappointed!

First we ordered brunch: a grilled veggie panini for me, and a turkey clubhouse for Court. I loved that the panini was made with fresh baked bread, and wasn’t greasy. Perfect amount of food. On the side: a slice of flour-less chocolate cake and a cookie dough truffle. I ate my share of the cake before my panini. There was no way I could patiently sit through my meal with that slice of chocolate heaven staring at me the whole time.

The dessert portions are on the small size, but my thighs (and pancreas) aren’t complaining. Quality over quantity, right? We got a Kohala Crunch Bar (macadamia nut brittle, feuilletine & milk chocolate topped with bittersweet chocolate ganache and cocoa powder) and a Lilikoi Bar (lilikoi curd with buttery shortbread) to take home. Both were outstanding.

With all of the food distractions out of the way, Akaka Falls State Park was next. Despite the rain, we enjoyed walking through lush, earthy jungle. Green, green, green… as far as the eye can see. Had it not been raining, we would’ve taken our time, but Courts camera was getting soaked.