13th Annual Smithsonian Magazine Photo Contest Natural World
Mermaid pool in jungly East Maui

I often explore the thick jungle of east Maui with no destination in mind, which is how I stumbled on this special place I named Mermaid Pool. I stay vigilant for the snorts of wild boars and always carry a piece of long bamboo. I suck on ginger flowers and pick guava while traversing the humid forest. I think it's important to seek out places in the wilderness that touch us. What we love, we will protect.

Photo Detail
Date Taken: 06.2015
Date Uploaded: 09.2015
Photo Location: Keanae, Hawaii, United States of America
Camera: iPhone 4S
Copyright: © Marina Galvan