Beach Bums - Part 49

Polo Beach, Oahu

Polo Beach is in the northwest part of the island of Oahu, Hawaii.  It's called Polo Beach because it's near the polo fields, but it's also called by its Hawaiian name, Mokuleia.

Approaching the beach, you turn left for the clothed beach and right for the clothing-optional beach.  Nude beaches are not legal in Hawaii, but there are several de facto nude beaches, located in less accessible areas, that are ignored by authorities.  This beach is at the opposite end of the island from Honolulu and Waikiki Beach.

There can be more people here on weekends, but during the week you might have the whole beach to yourself.

These first three photos show model Shawn on Mokuleia Beach, taken by Hawaiian artist and photographer Douglas Simonson, whose work we have seen before.

The beach faces north.  Looking out to sea, there is no land for over 2000 miles until you reach Alaska.

The beach is used by sea turtles that come to bask on the warm sand.  Turtles, called honu in Hawaiian, are protected by the state.  You can look at them, but don't disturb them.

Other creatures also come to bask on the beach.  Here's one ...

and another ...

and another, just looking to get that overall tan.

I think this guy is looking to get a little more.

Past the end of the beach in the distance you can see the Kawailoa wind farm, which produces 69 megawatts of electricity.  Hawaii has not invested heavily in solar and wind energy yet, but it's a start.

We end with a video clip of a guy showing off for us on Polo Beach.