This series of books is an absolute treasure... If you love Hawaii as I do, buy and read all of them. Mr. Clark either walks or paddle-boards the circumference of all the major Hawaiian Islands. Using thorough research, including old journals and oral Hawaiian history, he pieces together Hawaii's very unique history while Informing you of the realistic beach and water conditions. This is key. A minimum of one tourist drowns per week, thinking Hawaiian waters are a calm tropical paradise. They are not -- far from it. Most of the beaches can be dangerous, and in the winter, downright suicidal. Even though these books are decades old, the rip currents and shore-breaks haven't changed. Enjoy the beach and surf with an education!