Some of the students and Dr. Hopkins made the decision to get up bright and early to hike Diamond Head. We started hiking at 7:30 A.M. in efforts to miss the heat but we sadly did not. ): The hiking trail was a little bumpy and difficult as you went up an incline towards the top of the monument. On the way up, we were greeted with striking coastal views. Once we got back down to the bottom of the park, we indulged in some sweets. I had the acai bowl which was delicious! After hiking Diamond Head, some of the students planned to go to the beach to enjoy the sun and ocean for a little bit before our tour of the Keauhou Emergency Shelter.
Once it was noon, our class waited for public transportation to head out to the Keauhou Emergency Shelter. Upon arriving to town, we were greeted with a different atmosphere than Waikiki. We saw tents lined up on the sidewalk owned by homeless people. During our tour of the Keauhou Emergency Shelter, we learned that they offer and encourage health and wellness to their residents as they have access to free health and dental services across the street. They also have around 20 dogs living there! The Keauhou Emergency Shelter also helps homeless people find permanent housing and jobs. The average time someone stays at the shelter is about three months. After our tour, our class headed back to Waikiki and went on their own way. Some students went to the beach, some went shopping, and some went to go get dinner!