This sunset image was captured at Makawehi Bluff near Poi’pu while preparing to night fish from the cliff-top. Looking out over Gillin Beach and the Gillin homestead, you see the last undeveloped coastline on the south shore of Kauai; this entire Maha’ulepu area is also sacred and legendary to Native Hawaiians. The recent discovery of ancient petroglyphs carved in the shore rocks is found at Gillin Beach, though they are rarely exposed. Nearby, just upstream from the beach foreground, you’ll find Makauwahi Cave, a unique archaeological site. The cave, the largest limestone cave found in Hawaii, is reached via a sinkhole. The area may be the richest fossil site in the Hawaiian Islands, perhaps in the entire Pacific Island region. The paleolake contains nearly 10,000 years of sedimentary record. The findings document conditions before human colonization of the Hawaiian Islands, showing the drastic ecological changes that occurred since the first Polynesians arrived, bringing a suite of new invasive alien species. They reveal the existence of many native birds that became extinct. The remains of some 40 species of birds have been found; half of these species have now vanished. Beyond the sunlit ridge of trees, under Ha’upu Mountain Range, sits Maha’ulepu Beach, inside Kawailoa Bay. This is a hidden paradise, accessible via the scenic Maha’ulepu Heritage Trail. This sanctuary’s towering dramatic lava cliffs, pristine beaches. and sparkling turquoise waters shelter turtles, seals, and other wildlife. My fondest memories here will forever be close to my heart.