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Hawaii, Hawaii-Big Island, Kauai, Maui, Oahu, Plan

Hawaii Celebrates Earth Day

April 12, 2023

The islands are all about to need to preserve and renew and this April the Aloha State will be hosting several activities, events, and exchanges in honor of Mother Earth.

Island-wide Earth Month

More than just a day, Hawaii celebrates Earth Month. The entire month of April is now on the calendars as a volunteer month. Passed by the state legislature and signed into law by Governor Ige in 2022, the campaign is now in its second year. The organization Kanu Hawaii is the largest state-level celebration in the United States. Sign up at: https://www.kanuhawaii.org/volunteer-month-hawaii/ You can search for needs on the island of your choice at: https://www.kanuhawaii.org/needs/ There are beach cleanups, forest plantings, wildlife rescue and care, gardening insights, and galas.

Kiai Collier of Hawaii Land Trust and volunteers walk out of the water in west Maui after a clean-up. Photo: Heather Goodman/Hawaii Tourism Authority

Mauna Lani, Auberge Resorts, Island of Hawaii

Stop by the resort to swap your harmful sunscreen for reef-safe products. To honor Earth Day, Honua Hawaiian Skincare is partnering with Mauna Lani’s Kainalu Ocean Sports team to host the SPF Swap on April 22. Residents and visitors are invited to stop by the resort that day to exchange sunscreens containing harmful chemicals such as Oxybenzone and Octinoxate for Honua Hawaiian Skincare’s reef-safe MALU Day Cream, broad spectrum SPF 30. A percentage of proceeds from MALU sales benefits Sustainable Coastlines Hawaii, a nonprofit dedicated to keeping our oceans clean and inspiring communities to practice coastal stewardship. For more information, call (855) 550-5008.

Mauna Lani Beach along the Kohala Coast on the Big Island is the location of the Mauna Lani Resort. Photo: ekash/iStock

Haleakala National Park, Maui

National Park Week kicks off on Earth Day on April 22 with no entrance fees to Haleakala National Park for all visitors. Sunrise reservations are still required to enter the Summit District from 3 a.m. to 7 a.m. Contact recreation.gov. There’s a volunteer clean-up from 7:30 a.m. to 9 a.m. Help clean up the House of the Sun and participate in a drop-in trash clean up at the Haleakala Visitor Center at 9,740 feet. Join a park ranger for a special Earth Day program at Hosmer Grove to learn about your role in protecting the planet. The program starts at 2 p.m. If you can’t make it to any outings then you can explore the park online with Earth Day everyday activities, and learn more about endangered forest birds in the short film The Heart of Maui.

The rare and sacred landscape from the Haleakala National Park in Maui. Photo: iStock

Waikiki Aquarium, Oahu

The Mauka to Makai Environmental Expo takes place on Saturday, April 15, 2023, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Presented by the City and County of Honolulu’s Department of Facility Maintenance, the Hawaii State Department of Health Clean Water Branch, and the Waikiki Aquarium will promote the importance of keeping Hawaii clean and free of pollution, from the mountaintops to the ocean. It’s a free, family-friendly event. For info: https://www.waikikiaquarium.org/interact/annual- events/mauka-to-makai-earth-day/

A beautiful Copper Band Butterflyfish swimming in the Waikiki Aquarium in Oahu. Photo: Wirestock/iStock

The Bishop Museum of Science and Nature, Oahu

Join the Bishop Museum of Science & Sustainability Festival which brings together museum scientists, educators, cultural practitioners, and community partners to highlight the ongoing work needed to protect biodiversity and build a sustainable future in Hawaii. For more info: https://bishopscience.org/

The Bishop Museum on Oahu has exhibits on the cultures of the Pacific region of Hawaii and Polynesia. Photo: 7maru/iStock

Anguilla, Caribbean, Europe, Greece, Grenada, Hawaii, Islands, Kauai, Plan, Trip Ideas

Where To Go In May 2023

April 11, 2023

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Springtime brings longer days, milder weather, and far fewer tourists than the summer months. While the kids are still busy with school and the flowers are in bloom make May the month you sneak away for that much-deserved trip. Here are seven spots around the globe to celebrate the colors of spring.

Croatia

Once you’ve seen Dubrovnik’s medieval city walls and visited some of the historic cities along the gorgeous Dalmatian Coast you’ll want more. Take the next chapter of touring from the sea on a cruise of the Croatian Islands. You’ll hop from port to port visiting charming villages, fishing ports, and hilltop strongholds. Wine tastings on the island of Hvar, the Blue Cave off Korcula, and the medieval town designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site on the island of Trogir are on most itineraries. There are a least fifty ways to see these islands from sailing yachts to small ships with a dozen cabins that depart from Split or Dubrovnik.

Off the beaten path this secret turquoise beach is on the island of Brac, in the Dalmatian Islands of Croatia. Photo: xbrchx/Shutterstock

Crete

This mountainous isle, the largest Greek island is a botanist’s heaven with over 2,000 species of plants on the island, some endemic and are only found on the island, while others including olive trees and grape vines grow throughout the region. Cooking tours are busy with visitors hosting them on excursions and outdoor classrooms to check out olive groves, olive mills, and pressings. Wild herbs like chamomile, marjoram, thyme, oregano, and fennel grow on the rugged mountainous landscapes and are collected by cooks and chefs used in flavoring soups and stews. When spring is in full force the hillsides, slopes, and roadsides are carpeted in yellow, red, and purple blooms. Tiny wild tulips are early bloomers and are best seen on the hillside that spills over the village of Slili. Miniature purple orchids pop out among the yellow-colored flowers of chamomile. Small red poppies, full-petaled peonies, and delicate anemones make a multi-colored tapestry that rests over the landscape.

Spring on Crete is covered in wild poppies surrounding olive trees that grow throughout the hillsides. Photo: olgalngs/iStock

Anguilla

An island known for its 33 white sand beaches is also a culinary leader in the region. There are 70 restaurants many with a French flare combining Continental seasonings and techniques with local seafood; you’ll have grilled lobster with Herbs de Provence. Local barbeque is big and Caribbean cuisine including pigeon peas and rice, shredded salt cod and jerk chicken is prevalent but when visiting chefs come to the island, there is no limit. The Anguilla Culinary Experience runs for four days in early May and brings together local talented chefs with award- winning pros from the states and Europe. The event kicks off with a party and tasting at Aurora Anguilla Resort & Spa; guests will try dishes from each of the six restaurants. Resident and guest chefs will host dinners at set restaurants and days and evenings will include cooking demonstrations and rum tastings. Private dinners, beach barbeques, and gourmet island tours are all part of the festivities. The event runs from May 3 to 6, 2023. Order your tickets at: https://anguillaculinaryexperience.com/

Plated crayfish will most certainly be on the menu during the Anguilla Culinary Experience in May. Photo: Natalie Volchek- Alvarez/ACE

Santorini

Without a doubt, Santorini is the most famous of the Cyclades Islands, and visiting in the off-season is preferred. When July and August roll around the tourists flock in. In May, the weather is warm, sunny, and dry and you’ll be able to see one of those fabulous sunsets without rubbing shoulders. Explore as many villages as time allows. Fira, the largest town is good for shopping and nightlife and has a bus connection to get to other villages. Oia is the town most visitors head to when they get off the ships, its stone pedestrian paths wind up and around the hills connecting restaurants, inns, and shops and offering breathtaking views below of the cobalt-blue Mediterranean Sea.

One of the main streets in Oia, Santorini is lined with shops, bars, and restaurants. Photo: Mo Wu/Shutterstock

Grenada

Chocolate lovers will want to mark their calendars for this culinary event. The island is once known for its nutmeg, the pod that’s pictured on the National flag, and is now becoming the chocolate capital of the Caribbean. An island where agriculture was king, the volcanic soil is spectacularly fertile and today the central agricultural regions of the island are not only growing the iconic nutmeg and cinnamon but among mangoes, vanilla, and bananas grows the prized cacao. In the past, cacao was mostly exported but farmers today are holding onto the precious pods. Today there are five tree-to-bar companies, and they all play a role in the Grenada Chocolate Festival, a celebration of all things chocolate. You’ll find tastings, pairings, dinners, hands-on experiences, and plantation excursions. Meet the growers, participate in the raking and walking of the cacao, and learn the art of making bars. The event takes place May 16-21, 2023. Sign up at: https://www.grenadachocolatefest.com/

Special dinners from the 2022 Grenada Chocolate Festival included several chocolate desserts and rum tastings. Photo: Grenada Chocolate Festival

Kauai

The rainy season is over, and the weather is considered ideal in May, although humidity plays a role in a lush environment during the day evenings cool down and best of all, the summer visitors haven’t arrived yet. For hikers, the island is a nonstop adventure as 90 percent of the island is unpaved and accessible via hikes and bikes. A hike will take you just about anywhere there is a semblance of a trail and there are easy strolls along the coast to tougher hikes up 3,000-foot-high ridges offering breathtaking views. The Waimea Canyon on the west side takes in several hikes of various levels through the state park. Trails to Koke’e State Park carpeted in green forests meander through 4,345 acres reaching a plateau 3,200 to 4,200 feet above sea level. The views are amazing and the forest is home to some of Hawaii’s endemic birds. Most will want to hike the hanging valley of the Napali Coast, it’s not for the beginner but the views are worth it for those conditioned for a challenging and strenuous hike. This hike along the Kalalau Trail is 11 miles one way and follows the path of the ancient Hawaiians.

Hawaii’s most popular and scenic hike is on Kauai; the 11-mile Kalalau trail overlooks the Napali Coast. Photo: Sam Camp/iStock

Malta

Spring months are best for a visit to the island of Malta when the nights are still cool, and the majority of tourists haven’t arrived yet. Summer months can get intense with heat and overrun with visitors, many of who fancy the Instagrammable beach clubs. May is considered the sweet spot. History buffs will marvel at the architecture and since the island has been occupied first by the Phoenicians, then the Romans and so on there’s influence from Spain, Sicily, France, and England. The island became independent in 1964. However, the collision of cultures and unique buildings remains. Visit Malta’s Silent city of Mdina, once the capital, which dates to the Phoenicians 4,000 years ago. It’s a walking city with no cars except for residents who number under 300. Walk the narrow streets where churches have become museums and galleries and many of the palaces are now private homes.

Popular with tourists for the views and the fishing boats, Marsaxlokk fishing village showcases the colors of Malta. Photo: eli asenova/iStock

Hawaii, Hawaii-Big Island, Kauai, Lanai, Maui, Molokai, Oahu, Plan, Trip Ideas

Which Hawai’ian Island is Best for You

October 17, 2022

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Exotic yet close, alluring, and mystical; you’ll never be disappointed with any of the six islands open to visitors. Each is fascinating, full of history and culture while offering plenty of outdoor excursions on the water and land, there is exceptional flora and fauna, many species endemic to Hawai’i, and when it comes to dining there’s an array of culinary delights built on an ethnic collision of flavors from Portugal, China, Japan, and the Philippines.

Over-tourism has become a concern in many beautiful places around the world. Hawai’i is no exception. Locals have a profound connection to nature and their land. Today’s visitors should abide by the same values and attitudes; respect for Mother Nature and local customs is essential to being a good guest.

Island Of Hawai’i

The original Hawai’ian homeland where stories and legends were born and the gods and goddesses reside, the Big Island is as diverse as its climate zones. Where else can you swim with giant sea turtles and see a snow-capped mountain in the distance? Mauna Kea is where visitors come to ski, star gaze, and hike. Sister volcano Mauna Loa dominates offering hikes that vary from challenging day jaunts to serious backpack treks of several days requiring permits. On this island of extremes, you’ll find whatever you might be looking for.

There are over a dozen waterfalls on the east coast of Hawai’i near Hilo. Three-tiered falls at Umauma is now privately owned and reachable via Umauma Experience. Photo: Wasif Malik/Flickr

At Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park see the active volcano, take a journey via the Crater Rim Drive and continue to Thurston Lava Tube, an incredible underground passage created by lava flows. Upcountry pastures of North Kohala include farmland and horse ranches. The scenic drive to Waimea a thriving community leads to Pololu Valley Lookout revealing coastline vistas of the Hamakua Coast. The island is laced with lush greenery leading to waterfalls, ringed with black sand beaches and winding roads with amazing lookouts.

Kauai

So big and packed full of nature that you’ll be amiss if you don’t get out and explore and experience the Garden Island. The topography is lush and rugged, offering jagged cliffs, verdant valleys, countless canyons, and plummeting waterfalls. Days are filled with snorkeling Ke’e Reef, kayaking the Wailua River, and swimming at Po’ipu Beach. This enormous island has the most beaches of all the Hawaiian Islands, boasting 28 strands of black, tan, and white sands along its 11 miles of coastline.

Trails along the coast of Kaua’i’s North Shore at Napali reveal emerald cliffs with stunning sand beaches below. Photo: kdvandeventer/Pixaby

Hard-core adventurous types might explore the trail of Waimea Canyon on foot but a slow and easy drive up to the top unveils plenty of lookouts along the way. A portion of the towering cliffs of Napali Coast can be reached via an 11-mile rugged trail but these cliffs seen from the water and air captivate everyone and, there’s always a rainbow on the horizon at the double-tiered Wailua Falls.

Lana’i

Explorers, serenity seekers, and fans of remote luxury find this isle a perfect fit. Once home to pineapple plantations, Lana’i now hosts two ultra-luxurious Four Seasons resorts. In contrast to the pockets of pampering, most of the island is rough and rugged and open for exploration. Ribboned with 400 miles of roads and pathways, only 30 miles are paved, leaving the rest of the island ready for off-road adventures.

Just a short hike from the Four Seasons Resort on Lana’i offers the best views of Pu’upehe a natural landmark steeped in folklore. Photo: Dana Edmunds/Hawaii Tourism Authority

The Munro Trail, a long dusty route leads to Lana’i’s highest peak at Mount Lana’ihale, the peak unveils views of the neighboring islands of Maui, Moloka’i, and O’ahu. Hikers will find 20-minute easy paths and day-long challenging trails crisscrossing the interior along with parks where Garden of the Gods, best seen at dawn, showcases surreal lunar topography. Observe some of the rarest plants and birds in the world at Kanepu’u Preserve. The iconic heart-shaped sea stack at Pu’upehe is now a seabird sanctuary and is an easy walk between Manele and Hulopo’e Bays, best seen at sunrise.

Maui

Honeymooners, fitness fanatics, and rock stars gravitate toward Maui. Family-friendly and ultra-luxe resorts front some of the best beaches on the south and west coasts. Water-centric enthusiasts find sports from snorkeling to windsurfing and wellness seekers engage in yoga workshops and healing rituals. From funky hippie towns like Paia to the hustling cosmopolitan Kahului there’s a spot for everyone.

Hana Highway’s scenic drive showcases the rugged coastline of eastern Maui with 620 curves and crosses 59 bridges over streams and waterfalls. Photo: Tor Johnson/Hawaii Tourism Authority

Wai’anapanapa State Park, just one of several parks on the island is the place for black sand beaches, tidal pools, and blow holes. The historic whaling village of Lahaina offers a quaint look into the past and a chance to hear authentic Hawai’ian music and take in a hula or local art fair. There’s a good chance to see whales here between November and May. A trip to Haleakala via bike or car is a sunrise event and an excursion from Kahului to Hana where the narrow winding road unveils bamboo forests and waterfalls that flow into black sand beaches creates lasting memories.

Moloka’i

Moloka’i is an untouched slice of Hawaiian delight where residents remain true to their roots and strive to preserve the land and bucolic lifestyle. Visit the central island town of Kaunakakai and mingle with the residents at the general store and small shops, walk to the harbor to glimpse the daily catch, and don’t pass up a loaf of freshly baked sweet or savory bread. Steeped in island legends, and packed with breathtaking landmarks and natural beauty you’ll want to hire a local guide to impart the lure and soul of this remote crescent.

Moloka’i is etched in 88 miles of coastline, the most picturesque are the sea cliffs along the North Shore Pali. Photo: Tor Johnson/ Hawaii Tourism Authority

Hike the historic Halawa Valley where ancient Polynesians settled and home to towering waterfalls, sink your toes in the pure white sands of Papohaku Beach, one of the largest white sand beaches of Hawai’i, take a helicopter tour to the Kalaupapa Peninsula to see the world’s highest sea cliffs. Here you can snorkel the longest continuous reef in the United States; this 28-mile-long fringing reef on the southern shore is home to finger coral and reef fish; the natural beauty of Moloka’i captivates effortlessly. Taste local beans at coffee plantations, send home bags of macadamia nuts, and explore rare plants at Nature Conservancy’s 2,774-acre Kamakou Preserve. An island without commercial signage, a single traffic light, or big hotels, the isle is all about the way things used to be throughout the island chain.

O’ahu

Home to the capital, the most visited and typically the first stop on any trip to Hawaii this isle is aptly named the gathering place. This island has both city and country lifestyles, plenty of beaches, epic surfing, high-end shopping, and a bounty of Pacific Rim cuisine. Fascinating and multicultural, the virtual melting pot of heritages, ideas, customs and cuisine forge together here on O’ahu. After plenty of improvements and updates, Waikiki Beach is a posh, global town with swanky resorts and 5-star restaurants. There’s vibrant street activity as pedestrians drift in and out of upscale boutiques, bars, and restaurants. O’ahu has a thriving farmers market and swap meet and there is always a social gathering that brings in art, music, film, theater, and food. No doubt that O’ahu is the most social with energy that of any cosmopolitan city.

View of Waikiki and Honolulu from atop Le’ahi, the summit of Diamond Head. Hawai’i’s most familiar landmark, the state park covers 475 acres. Photo: Tor Johnson/Hawaii Tourism Authority

But the ocean lures here too; snorkeling, body surfing, and paddleboarding are for everyone. And, while out you may spot spinner dolphins and sea turtles. A drive along the west coast to North Shore tempts stops at epic surf beaches like Banzai Pipeline and Sunset Beach. Inspired? Take a lesson on easy, gentle rollers at Waikiki. Diamond Head trail trekked early in the morning for views of Honolulu and the Pacific, is a must on every trip. And, kayakers will want to explore the Mokulua Islands from Kailua Beach.

Asia, Caribbean, Europe, Greece, Hawaii, Islands, Kauai, Maldives, Oceania, Plan, St. Lucia, Tahiti, Thailand, Trip Ideas

7 of the World’s Most Beautiful Islands

January 27, 2022

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While no longer well-kept secrets, the following isles continue to engage with charm and scenery. Read below to see our picks for the most beautiful islands in the world to see in 2022.

Moorea

The Islands of Tahiti include over 100 islands within five archipelagos. The most photographed and visited are the Society Islands, which include Tahiti, Bora Bora and Moorea. You’ll find barrier reefs and cobalt blue lagoons, powdery soft sands and emerald volcanic peaks. Among the dramatic mountain ridges lies volcanic Mount Rotui, the second-highest mountain on Moorea. The five-mile round trip hike to the top is challenging even for experienced hikers but rewards with scenic views of the entire island.

The mountains of Moorea are some of the most rugged in the world. Mount Rotui is the easiest to climb and offers views of Opunohu Bay and Cook’s Bay. Photo: Ugur Ozden/Flickr

Santorini

Certainly, Santorini has been on many a bucket list. For decades it has been the most popular Greek destination but it’s still worth joining the crowds to see this crescent moon-shaped island. Cruisers head to the picturesque village of Oia for the views and sunsets amidst the stunning architecture of whitewashed buildings dotted with cobalt blue dome roofs. Be sure to wander through the stone-paved alleys stopping at a café to taste the local wine paired with tomatokeftedes a patty made with local feta cheese and the famous Santorini cherry tomato.

After visiting Oia village take the hike along the caldera to Fira, the largest town on the island. Drop by a tavern or two along the way. Photo: Gene Tobia/Flickr

Kauai

While tropical rainforest covers much of the island’s interior including ribbons of trails favored by hikers, the Garden Island offers 111-miles of coastline with 50 miles of glistening white sand for beach lovers. The Na Pali coastline with its intensely colored dramatic cliffs, pinnacles and canyons beckon photographers from around the world to capture its glory from air or sea. A helicopter tour from Princeville takes visitors over the 65 miles of lush roadless terrain showcasing the waterfalls, valleys and crevices.

Kauai has several small towns to explore. Hanapepe is known for art, Koloa dates back to the sugar era of 1835 and locals favor Hanalei. Photo: Karsten Winegeart/Unsplash

Bali

The land of elaborate temples, Hindu ceremonies, terraced rice paddies and monkeys, the island of Bali is not known as much for its beaches as for its lush landscapes. Sure, you can find white and black stretches of sand with cliffs looming above hidden shores. Dubbed the most popular beach in the world of Instagrammers, Kelingking Beach on Nusa Penida Island is mostly viewed from above. Getting to its shore involves a precarious hike and most will find the scene from above to be equally mesmerizing.

Kelingking Beach AKA T-Rex Beach is the claim to fame for the island of Nusa Penida. From above the shape resembles the neck of a Tyrannosaurus Rex. Photo: felfin05 evin on Unsplash

Maldives

This archipelago of 1,200 islands and atolls stretches across the equator and lies within the Indian Ocean. The collection is comprised of fine white sands formed from coral, crystal waters and palm trees; and it’s the world’s lowest country reaching four feet above sea level. Here, over-water bungalows are prevalent. Rasdhoo Atoll is uninhabited topside but beneath the surface, the surrounding ocean is populated with hammerhead sharks, manta rays and stingrays as well as the more docile sea turtle.

Divers find Rasdhoo’s underwater world to be some of the best. Shallow water lagoons are great for beginners while deep walls and channels appeal to the advanced. Photo: Maahid Photos/Unsplash

St. Lucia

A visit to St. Lucia isn’t complete without a glimpse of the Pitons, the Caribbean’s most distinctive landmark. Often seen from the winding mountainous roads when approaching Soufrière, the views are ubiquitous. Even more captivating are the twin volcanoes seen from the water. These twin peaks that rise up from the sapphire blue sea are connected by an inland ridge that became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2004.

A visit to the Pitons might include a rigorous hike on the Gros Piton trail or a relaxing soak and mud bath in the Sulphur Springs. Photo: David Dale/Flickr

Phi Phi Islands

The Phi Phi Islands National Park is comprised of six islands skirting Maya Bay, which was made famous in the 2000 film The Beach starring Leonardo DiCaprio. The two larger islands Koh Phi Phi Don and Koh Phi Phi were so popular among day-trippers and snorkeling boats that the officials of Thailand closed the bay, not so much due to Covid but to restore the damage done to the once pristine spot due to over- tourism. Today visitors are allowed back but with imposed new rules to protect the area.

While the Maya Bay draws with its natural beauty there hundreds of gorgeous islands between Phuket and Krabi. Take a longtail boat and explore the area. Photo: Miltiadis Fragkidis/Unsplash

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Outdoor Showers: 15 Top Resorts with Amazing Private Open-air Cascades

December 4, 2017

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There’s nothing like standing under the cool, cleansing flow of an outdoor shower set amid natural surroundings. While lathering up in bubbles, you might hear the songs of birds, monkeys chattering in the trees or the sea rolling ashore. Bringing you closer to nature and pictured here is a close up of a private courtyard outdoor shower at the Blancaneuax Lodge in Belize.

Hawaii, Hawaii-Big Island, Kauai, Maui, Play, Trip Ideas

Hawaii’s Best Surfing Competitions

October 13, 2017

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We can’t all be surfing superstars. But even if you’ve never caught a wave, you can catch up with some of the best riders in the world during one of the many surfing competitions staged across the islands of Hawaii. If you are making plans to hit the beach and take in the action, here are five of the best events to watch.

Vans Triple Crown

November and December bring some of the planet’s largest and best surf to the north shore of Oahu. The world’s top riders come to challenge these waves, and to compete in three of the sport’s most prestigious events, known collectively as the Triple Crown. First in the lineup is the Hawaiian Pro in the small North Shore town of Haleiwa. Here, for two weeks in November, spectators line the beaches of Ali’i Beach Park to watch an international cast of surfers make their best moves. Two weeks later, the competition moves to the surf break known as Sunset, for the Vans World Cup. This legendary surf spot tests the world’s best on fast breaking walls of water that can rise two stories high. Come mid-December, the stakes are even higher at the Billabong Pipemasters, which draws more than 40 of the world’s most skilled big-wave riders to the infamous North Shore break known as the Banzai Pipeline. When conditions are right, this experts-only wave becomes the big stage where the best of the best risk it all for glory and six-figure prize money.

Finalists in the Vans World Cup of Surfing pose with their trophies. This three-event series draws thousands of spectators to the north shore of Oahu each winter. Photo: Vans World Cup

The Quicksilver in Memory of Eddie Aikau

The world’s oldest and most prestigious big-wave competition is known to most simply as “The Eddie.” This invitation-only event is named in honor of legendary Hawaiian surfer and lifeguard Eddie Aikau, who died heroically while saving lives during a storm. There is no fixed date for this competition, which could take place at any time between late December and the end of February, and only in years when conditions deliver ride able waves with faces that reach 30 to 40 feet in height. As many as 30,000 spectators will line the beach at Waimea Bay when the big swell does hit. Some two-dozen of the world’s best riders are invited to test their skills on the monster breaks.

The Quicksilver in Memory of Eddie Aikau Big Wave Invitational is a World Surf League special event that is only staged when wave face heights hit the range of 40-feet-plus. Photo: Quicksilver

Surf N Sea Haleiwa International Open

Not all surf contests are about fame and fortune, and this is certainly the case for the world’s longest-running amateur wave riding event. The Haleiwa Open was created in 1970 by two Oahu locals as a good will gesture to visiting Japanese surfers. Over the decades, the event has attracted an increasingly diverse range of both local and international competitors, who gather to showcase their talents on the surf breaks of Ali’i Beach Park. With both long board and short board categories, and divisions for everyone from early-teens to the 60-year-plus grandmasters, the competition remains true to its amateur roots. Competitors and spectators mingle in a setting that has a hometown vibe, and proceeds from the event go to the Haleiwa Surf Center and the local community.

Winners in the short board division at the Haleiwa International Open. This event gives young up-and-coming surfers a chance to showcase their talents and enter the professional ranks. Photo: Haleiwa International Open

HSA State Championship

On the mainland, it’s all about high school and college sports. In Hawaii, people follow the standings of the favorites in the HSA. Founded in the early 1960s, The Hawaii Surfing Association forged an alliance of professional and amateur surfers, organized community and regional surfing teams, and worked for the promotion and betterment of the sport. Today, the association produces 11 amateur surfing competitions on the island of Oahu every year, and another five events a year on the islands of Hawaii, Maui and Kauai. The 10-month HSA Hard Rock Cafe Surf Series features a mix of short board, long board, body boarding and knee boarding divisions. Competitors in each discipline earn points toward an invitation to the State Championships, which takes place in late April at the Ala Moana Bowls surf break on Oahu’s southern shore.

A group of young competitors at a Hawaii Surfing Association event. The association stages amateur competitions across the state of Hawaii, with divisions for children as young as seven years of age. Photo: Hawaii Surfing Association

Duke’s OceanFest

This eight-day celebration of the surfing lifestyle is named for Duke Paoa Kahanamoku, the Hawaii native revered as the father of modern surfing. OceanFest take place at Waikiki Beach, which is where Duke and his fellow beach boys first introduced the world to the sport of wave riding in the 1920s. Highlights of OceanFest include the World Championship of Tandem Surfing. For this unique subset of the sport, a two-person team rides Waikiki’s long gentle waves while performing a series of gymnastic-style tricks such as headstands and choreographed body lifts. The same waves provide the stage for the AccesSurf Duke’s Adaptive Surf Competition, which attracts some of the sport’s top disabled surfers. In addition to surfing, OceanFest features a variety of ocean sports that were close to Duke’s heart, including Paddleboard Racing, Swimming and Volleyball. The festival kicks off each year on the third week in August.

Don’t miss this video: “Gone to the Dogs” SurFUR Competition- https://youtu.be/YsZ4d-JqJSs

Hawaii, Hawaii-Big Island, Kauai, Maui, Oahu, Play, Trip Ideas

Hawaii’s Best Kayak and Snorkel Tours

March 31, 2017

The clear waters that wash the shores of Hawaii can seem very enticing when you are gliding across the surface in a kayak. So go ahead, jump in. But first, grab a mask and snorkel so you can fully appreciate the colors of the corals and follow the meanderings of the brilliantly hued tropical fish. If this sounds like your idea of a great day on the water, check out these seven combo trips that showcase the full beauty and diversity of the islands.

Visiting the Mokes

One of the most popular kayaking destinations in Oahu is a pair of small, deserted rock islands known as Na Mokulua, which locals refer to as “The Mokes.” The most popular starting point for the three-quarter-mile paddle to the site is Lanikai Beach, where there is no shore break to contend with. The smaller island, Moku Iki, remains off limits, and all landings happen on a beach on the larger island, Moku Nui. Snorkelers will find coral formations that begin in clear water right off the beach. Several tour companies run guided trips to the Mokes, and more paddlers make their own way in rented or personal kayaks, which means the place can get pretty busy on weekends and holidays.

Moku Iki is one of a pair of small islands that lie off the east coast of Oahu. It remains off limits, but kayakers can paddle to a beach on nearby Moku Nui. Photo: Hawaii Tourism Authority

Where’s Gilligan?

Fans of vintage television may be thrilled to hear that a trip to Coconut Island lands them on the location once used in the show Gilligan’s Island. But the castaways wouldn’t recognize the island these days, as it is now home to a research center operated by the Hawaii Institute of Marine Biology. Trips begin at Heeia State Park, and make a half-mile crossing of Kaneohe Bay, which is fully sheltered from offshore waves. After touring the research facilities, the next stop is Horseshoe Reef, where snorkelers can explore the coral formations of Oahu’s only true barrier reef. This area is often home to sea turtles and eagle rays.

Kayak tours that begin at Heeia State Park pass by a historic fishpond before crossing the bay to Coconut Island and the snorkeling sites of Horseshoe Reef. Photo: Hawaii Tourism Authority

Maui’s Fishiest Place

The fish sanctuary at Maui’s Honolua Bay is one of the island’s best snorkeling venues. Due to limited and unsecured roadside parking and a lack of shore facilities, the site is best reached by water. As an alternative to big tour boats, several companies launch paddle trips from the nearby beaches at Kapalua, and head west along a shoreline of low cliffs and hidden bays. Tours usually include a stop on a small beach, and then head to the shallow western side of the bay where the best snorkel reefs are located. Summer is the best time for this excursion, as winter waves turn the outer reaches of the bay into a popular surf break.

A paddle around the headlands of Maui’s north coast leads to the marine preserve at Honolua Bay, which is home to some of the island’s best coral reefs. Photo: Hawaii Tourism Authority

Touring Turtle Town

The section of Maui’s south coast between Makena and Wailea has earned the nickname “turtle town” for the large number of sea turtles that are seen year-round on coral formations close to shore. There are more than a dozen reefs in the area that are visited by tour boats, which can put dozens of snorkelers in the water at one time. To avoid the crowds, savvy paddlers go early and join a small group tour led by guides who know the area, and are able to seek out sites away from the crowds. As a bonus, the trip to and from turtle snorkels takes in big views of Mount Haleakala and the offshore profiles of Molokini and Lanai.

Sea turtles can be found on coral reefs all around the islands of Hawaii, but tend to gather in greater numbers on the reefs along Maui’s south coast known as Turtle Town. Photo: iStock

History and Coral Reefs

The Big Island’s signature kayak and snorkel combo takes place in a marine preserve on the island’s west coast. History buffs will note that Kealakekua Bay is the site where the first westerner, lead by Captain James Cook, landed on Hawaii Island. The shores are also the site of the sacred temple, Hikiau Heiau, dedicated to the Hawaiian god Lono. The bay is a favorite with both divers and snorkelers, as it is filled with vibrant coral reefs that are a home to a diverse range tropical fish, and often visited by schools of spinner dolphins. Permits are required for snorkeling or landing on the shores of the Captain Cook Monument, so it is best to book a trip with one of the several tour companies licensed to operate in the preserve.

A snorkeler begins a free diving plunge into the clear waters of Kealakekua Bay, which is known for its abundant fish life and colorful coral formations. Photo: Hawaii Tourism Authority

Cliffs and Caves

Just outside the village of Kailua, paddlers can launch into Keauhou Bay, which is rimmed in sea cliffs riddled with blowholes, arches and lava tubes. On guided tours, kayakers can play follow the leader as they make their way through narrow rock-lined channels and into sea caves. A highlight of many tours is a float into a large cavern where mineral stained pink walls are reflected in the clear water. After touring the cliffs and caves, paddlers beach their boats in a calm cove and spend time snorkeling on nearby coral formations, exploring tidal pools or—for the adventurous—leaping into the water from surrounding cliffs.

The shores of Keauhou Bay are lined with rugged lava formations riddled with caves and tidal pools. These waters are ideal for exploration by kayak. Photo: Hawaii Tourism Authority

From River to Reef

A favorite paddling trip on the island of Kauai begins on the banks of the Hanalei River. A short downstream paddle leads to the expansive semi- circular sweep of Hanalei Bay, which is surrounded by green mountain slopes and ringed by more than two miles of the island’s best beaches. If snorkeling is part of the plan, kayakers head toward Waikoko Reef, which lies on the northwestern edge of the bay. The entire reef can be explored during the calm conditions common in summer, but when winter swells roll in, the outer portion of the reef becomes a popular surf break, limiting snorkeling to areas closer to shore.

Kayak trips that begin in the Hanalei River lead into the expansive bay of the same name. The eastern end of the bay holds excellent snorkeling reefs. Photo: Hawaii Tourism Authority

Eat, Hawaii, Hawaii-Big Island, Kauai, Maui, Oahu, Trip Ideas

Hawaii’s Best Street Parties

February 6, 2017

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Forget hotel floorshows and tourist-centric luaus. For an authentic take on Hawaii, do what the locals do and take to the streets. Street parties are a thing on each of the major Hawaiian Islands, and they happen on Friday nights. Stores and galleries put on special showings, food trucks and craft stands show up and live music is often in the mix. Here are the places to be if you want to party like a local.

Oahu

Honolulu’s Chinatown district comes alive on First Fridays, as thousands converge on the 12-block area around the Hawaii Theatre. This district is home to an eclectic mix of galleries, clothing boutiques and wine shops, many of which stay open late to host exhibitions, tastings and live entertainment. Some sweeten the offering with special deals. The mixing and mingling goes on from 6 p.m.to 9 p.m., then the parties continue at nearby restaurants and clubs.

Two weeks later, the action switches to Third Saturday and the Honolulu Night Market. This monthly happening is an indoor-outdoor event that takes place at the Cooke Street Warehouse in the Kaka’ako district. The program varies, but usually includes showings by local clothing designers and a mix of arts and crafts booths. To ramp up the vibe, there’s a skate ramp, live music, food trucks, drink service and a kid’s zone. The action starts around 6 p.m.

The final Friday of the month is the time to Eat the Street. Starting at 4 p.m., more than 40 of the island’s most popular food trucks gather on South Street. It’s best to come early if you don’t want to wait in line, because crowds of up to 7,000 show up to chow down. After sampling some of the unique culinary choices, diners linger for live performances and check out the offerings of street vendors.

Galleries in Honolulu’s Chinatown district often stage special events, showings and wine for First Fridays, which bring thousands downtown to mix and mingle. Photo: Hawaii Tourism Authority

Maui

Pau hana is the Hawaiian expression for the end of the workday spent relaxing with family and friends. The island of Maui enjoys some pau hana time each week with Friday Town Parties. Held in one of four different historic downtowns each week, these gatherings combine live musical performances with featured artists, food and drink, children’s activities and a bit of strolling, shopping and conversation. The party rotates around the island, with Wailuku First Friday, Lahaina Second Friday, Makawao Third Friday and Kihei Fourth Friday. Months that have a fifth Friday provide an excuse to carry the festivities to the ferry for a trip to the nearby island of Lanai. The evening gathering centers around Dole Park, and spreads to the streets of downtown Lanai City to include live performers, food vendors and special discounts and prizes at local merchants.

The historic seaside village of Lahaina is one of four towns on the island of Maui that hosts a revolving series of Friday evening festivals throughout the year. Photo: Hawaii Tourism Authority

Kauai

The normally quiet town of Hanapepe turns lively for Art Night, which takes place every Friday from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. along Maui Street. A dozen of the town’s galleries stay open late for showings, and local artists and artisans set up in curbside kiosks. Food trucks provide refreshment, while street musicians perform both contemporary and traditional Hawaii tunes. It’s a family friendly affair with the sort of small town vibe not found on other islands.

Galleries and shops in the town of Hanapepe stay open late for the town’s Friday Night Festival and Art Walk, which is one of the favorite gatherings on the island of Kauai. Photo: Hawaii Tourism Authority

Hawaii Island

The Big Island’s take on Friday parties happens on the east coast town of Hilo. Aloha First Friday delivers the requisite combination of arts and crafts displays, live music, food and family activities. This gathering often has a local vibe, as townsfolk come to mix and mingle. But visitors are always welcome, and vacationers staying at west coast resorts will sometimes make the cross-island drive to join in the festivities.

For west coast residents and visitors wanting to stay closer to home base, the seaside town of Kailua stages the Kokua Kailua Village Stroll one Sunday each month. From 1 p.m. to 6 p.m., a portion of Ali’i Drive is blocked off for the gathering, and more than 100 vendors set up shop on the street and sidewalks, offering everything from tie-dyed t-shirts and handmade jewelry to fine works of art. There’s plenty of food and a concert that often features native Hawaiian music.

Hilo’s historic downtown district is the setting for the monthly First Friday gathering, which brings locals and visitors into the streets for food, music and fun. Photo: Hawaii Tourism Authority

Eat, Hawaii, Hawaii-Big Island, Kauai, Lanai, Maui, Molokai, Oahu, Trip Ideas

Favorite Hawaii Luau Foods

October 4, 2016

Any visit to Hawaii should include a luau. These traditional island-style parties are part feast, part performance and all about having a good time. Though menus sometimes vary, there are favorites that almost always show up on the table. Here are some of the savory staples that you can expect to enjoy.

Poke

A favorite luau appetizer is poke, which is the Hawaiian word for cutting or slicing. Dishes that go by this name are made from chunks or slivers of raw fish marinated in soy sauce, sesame oil and seasonings. Traditional versions include aku and he’e, which are made from yellow fin tuna or octopus, respectively. Creative chefs may substitute salmon or shellfish, and garnish with chopped onions, chilies, seaweed, fish eggs and wasabi.

The raw fish dish known as poke is believed to originate with fishermen who marinated trimmings from their catches in soy sauce and spices to create a tasty appetizer. Photo: iStock

Luau Stew

Locals love a savory bowl of Hawaiian oxtail soup, and will debate which island kitchen turns out the best recipes. Also known as luau stew, this hearty broth is created by stewing the namesake beef tails in their own juices until tender. Steamed taro leaves and a dash of coconut milk go into the pot, along with savory accents such as ginger, anise, orange peel, peanuts, chili and mustard.

Hawaiian luau stew is an island favorite. This version of oxtail soup is made by simmering the meat until tender, then adding spices and steamed taro leaves. Photo: Leigh Anne Meeks/ iStock

Hawaiian Pizza

Though not a traditional food, Hawaiian Pizza has found its way onto many luau buffet tables. Both the name and the idea of combining ham and pineapple on a pizza crust are actually credited to a Canadian baker. The recipe spread across North America before arriving in the islands. Local versions may substitute a Hawaiian favorite, spam, and include additional garnishes such as red onions and green bell peppers.

Despite the name, Hawaiian pizza is actually an import first created in Canada. When it appears on luau menus, it is often with a nod to the local preference for spam rather than sliced ham. Photo: NA Grittsaom/iStock

Huli Huli Chicken

Luau guests are often treated to the enticing scent of grilling huli huli chicken. What sets this version of the barbecue favorite apart is the constant basting and turning the birds receive while on the grill. In the Hawaiian language, the word “huli-huli” means turn, turn. It is this constant attention and the frequent basting that keep the meat juicy and tender. Purists say that this dish is best when made from local fowl that are a cross breed of domesticated chicken and the red jungle fowl that roam the islands.

Grill masters baste huli huli chicken in a savory sauce made from soy sauce, fresh lemon and pineapple juices, with accents of ginger, garlic, brown sugar and sherry. Photo: Robson Abbot/ iStock

Poi

Poi is the original Hawaiian comfort food, and a long-time staple starch of the native island diet. This porridge-like dish is made by mashing the cooked root of the taro plant into a pasty liquid, and then adding water before it is served. Depending on the amount of water added, it can take on consistencies from liquid to dough-like. When served fresh it is known as sweet poi, and when left standing to ferment, it becomes sour poi.

Depending on consistency, the starchy dish made from crushed taro root may be called “one, two or three-finger” poi, referring to the number of fingers required to scoop it up. Photo: iStock

Kalua Pork

A Kalua pig is often the centerpiece of a luau. The traditional Hawaiian cooking method known as kalua begins by digging a dirt pit known as an imu, where rocks are heated by an open fire. A pig wrapped in wet burlap and layered with banana leaves is then placed in the pit, along with more hot rocks. The pit is covered and left to slow cook for six to eight hours. The result is meat that is uniformly juicy and tender, embellished by the smoke flavors of hardwoods. It is usually served shredded, and is delicious without the need for any additional sauce.

The pit cooking methods of Kalua allow steam and smoke flavors from koa wood, ti and banana leaves to infuse the meat with a mild yet distinct flavor. Photo: iStock

Hawaii, Hawaii-Big Island, Kauai, Maui, Oahu, Play, Trip Ideas

Hawaii by Helicopter

May 5, 2016

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Few other places in the world can match the scenic beauty and diversity of the Hawaiian Islands. From towering sea cliffs and thundering surf to waterfalls, rainforests and active volcanoes, it’s all here. And one of the best ways to experience this enticing visual smorgasbord is by air. Helicopter tours of the islands rank high on most visitors’ bucket lists, and can be booked at each of the four major islands. Here’s what to expect.

Tour companies such as Blue Hawaii carry passengers in fast, turbine- powered helicopters that can reach all corners of the islands in comfort and safety. Photo: Marek Sluzarczyk/iStock

Oahu

An aerial view of Oahu takes in famous landmarks and also reveals a very different side of the island. Tours may begin with an overflight of Pearl Harbor for a bird’s eye view of the Arizona Memorial, the battleship Missouri and the historic Aloha Tower. Next comes bustling downtown Honolulu and overflights of the iconic beaches of Waikiki, Diamond Head and the glittering shallows of Hanauma Bay. Then, as the pilot heads farther east, a very different side of Oahu is revealed. The island’s interior is a realm of towering mountains, lush rainforests and hidden valleys. A soaring flight over the Pali cliffs leads to a windward coastline lined with spectacular beaches and colorful coral reefs, all set against sea cliffs where waterfalls spill from the heights. In winter months, passengers have a grandstand seat for the North Shore’s surf scene, where the best wave riders in the world gather to challenge monster swells.

A birds-eye view of Oahu’s eastern shore, where the Kamehameha Highway runs beachside. Nearby Ahupuaa O Kahana State Park offers camping and hiking trails. Photo: Slobo Mitic/ iStock

Kauai

More than half of the Garden Isle can’t be reached by road, and there’s a lot to see on this greenest of the Hawaiian Islands. Kauai’s deep canyons, towering sea cliffs and majestic waterfalls deliver cinematic grandeur, and have been a favorite of filmmakers from South Pacific to King Kong and Jurassic Park. A typical tour route will swoop through the expansive Hanapepe Valley en route to the cascading waters of Manawaiapuna, aka Jurassic Falls. Anywhere else, the razor-thin ridges and deep clefts of Olokele Canyon would be the main attraction, but on Kauai, this remote valley is just a warm up for the even grander vistas of Waimea Canyon, the so-called “Grand Canyon of the Pacific.” Next up are the sculpted sea cliffs of the NaPali Coast, and the pristine blue waters of Hanalei Bay. For a spectacular finish, pilots head for Mount Waialeale, the wettest spot on Earth, where 3,000-foot waterfalls spill down the towering mile-high walls of an ancient crater.

There are no roads on the rugged sea cliffs of Kauai’s Napali Coast. Hikers follow demanding cliffside trails to hidden valleys, but helicopter flights provide much easier access. Photo: Andrea Izzotti/iStock

Maui

An aerial tour of Maui begins with a decision: east, west or both. A flight over the West Maui Mountains takes in views of one of the wettest places on earth, with plenty of waterfalls and greenery. Also on the route are the isolated beaches of the north shore, expansive sugarcane and pineapple fields, the historic town of Lahaina and the scenic shores and resorts of Kaanapali and Kapalua. Some tours take to the sea to reach the world’s highest sea cliffs on neighboring Molokai Island. In winter and spring, there is a chance of seeing breaching humpback whales during the crossing. A circumnavigation of east Maui begins with a climb to the lunar-like landscape Haleakala Crater, Hawaii’s largest dormant volcano. Descending eastward, flights then follow a lush coastline where waterfalls sparkle amidst rainforest greens. After passing the village of Hana, the scenery changes once more to the open plains of the island’s seldom-visited southern shore. For the ultimate Maui tour, some operators offer an all- island route that showcases the full spectrum of the Valley Isle’s scenic treasures.

Maui’s surf-washed northwestern coast is flanked by tall sea cliffs. The only land access to this sparsely populated region is via a narrow, one-lane road that often hugs the cliffs. Photo: iStock

Hawaii

The Big Island is a land of contrasts and extremes. In winter, the soaring peaks of Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa are often covered in snow. A few miles to the south, the smoke and fire of Kilauea are proof that this is a young volcanic island, still rising from the sea. Overflights of this active volcano are a staple of helicopter tours originating on the east coast town of Hilo, providing passengers with a rare opportunity to witness active lava flows and massive steam clouds created when the molten rock meets the sea. These same routes also take in black sand beaches and the island’s oldest landscapes: the deep valleys and rain forests of the Kohala mountains. Longer flights originating on the island’s western shore provide a dramatic look at up to eight distinct climate-zones, included the arid coastal plains of Kohala, the ranches of the Waimea highlands and the verdant coastal landscapes of the Waipio valley and the Hamakua Coast.

On the south coast of the big island of Hawaii, helicopter flights provide a rare chance to witness the steam clouds created when lava flowing from Kilauea Volcano meet the sea. Photo: iStock

Island-wide Earth Month

Mauna Lani, Auberge Resorts, Island of Hawaii

Haleakala National Park, Maui

Waikiki Aquarium, Oahu

The Bishop Museum of Science and Nature, Oahu

Croatia

Crete

Anguilla

Santorini

Grenada

Kauai

Malta

Island Of Hawai’i

Kauai

Lana’i

Maui

Moloka’i

O’ahu

Moorea

Santorini

Kauai

Bali

Maldives

St. Lucia

Phi Phi Islands

Vans Triple Crown

The Quicksilver in Memory of Eddie Aikau

Surf N Sea Haleiwa International Open

HSA State Championship

Duke’s OceanFest

Visiting the Mokes

Where’s Gilligan?

Maui’s Fishiest Place

Touring Turtle Town

History and Coral Reefs

Cliffs and Caves

From River to Reef

Oahu

Maui

Kauai

Hawaii Island

Poke

Luau Stew

Hawaiian Pizza

Huli Huli Chicken

Poi

Kalua Pork

Oahu

Kauai

Maui

Hawaii

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