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Hawaii Travel Guide

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  Hawaii at Higher Elevations - Waimea and the Kohala Mountains

  Posted: August 25th, 2010, 5:44pm EDT by Bruce Fisher

  Tags:  Big Island  

   

  Surveying the scene at about the 3,000 ft elevation in North Hawaii on the Big Island, you realize that you’ve entered Hawaii’s paniolo (cowboy) country. This is the land of vast cattle ranches, organic farms and rolling green hills (also known as pu‘us).

  If you are a first-time visitor to the Big Island, you may first hear about Waimea as a destination when you ask about "not-to-be-missed" North Hawaii restaurants. Many residents and returning visitors will say that a Big Island vacation is just not complete without at least one dinner at Merriman’s Restaurant in Waimea’s Opelo Plaza. (Chef/restaurateur Peter Merriman is known as a "pioneer of Hawaii Regional Cuisine.")   Here is a possible day-trip itinerary for anyone who wants to get to know North Hawaii at higher elevations a little better:  

  • For a taste of "old Hawaii," visit Anna Ranch Heritage Center where you can learn about the fascinating life of Anna Leialoha Lindsey Perry-Fiske (1900-1995), the "First Lady of Ranching" in Hawaii. Tours are only $10 per person and worth every penny. The koa furniture in the main house and the beautifully landscaped grounds are amazing!
   
  • Drive up Kohala Mountain Road and visit one of the North Kohala ranches that offer ATV rides, horseback riding or guided hikes. Kahua Ranch, home of Na’apala Stables, is one working ranch that welcomes visitors. The views from the highest points of Kahua (4,000+ ft above sea level) are simply stunning. The Ranch’s Wednesday Evening Sunset Dinner program is celebrating its 10th anniversary this year, so you can stay at the Ranch all day and enjoy the all-you-can-eat buffet and live music in the evening.
   
  • At some point during your day, visit Waimea Coffee Company in Parker Square, where you’re likely to find yourself in the company of Big Island ranchers and cowboys stopping in to enjoy their locally grown coffee before heading back to work. 

  I’ve lived on the Big Island for 6 years now, and the Waimea-Kohala area is by far my favorite place on the island. Welcome to true Hawaiian country!   Photo: Anna Ranch Heritage Center on Kawaihae Road in Waimea   Posted by Cynthia Hoskins.  Follow me on Twitter.   Related post:  Hawaii Island at Higher Elevations - Volcano Village

   

  

Hawaii Vacation Advice

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  Hawaii Vacation Deals & News: August 12, 2010

  Posted: August 12th, 2010, 11:23am EDT by sheila

  Tags:  Big Island Deals  

  

  * Safari Helicopters is now offering its “Deluxe Hawaii Volcano Tour” for $179 (plus surcharges and fees) on Hawaii’s Big Island. That’s $45 off the regular price of $224. Offer good through 2010, and cannot be combined with any other offers or discounts.www.safarihelicopters.com.

  * Prince Resorts Hawaii are offering either third or fourth night free depending on location.  See their promotion here. Prince has resorts in the Big Island and Oahu.

  * Maui’s Wailea Beach Marriott Resort is now offering a new luau on Mondays, Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays. I’ve updated the Maui luau list to include this new luau addition.

  * OHANA Waikiki Beachcomber Hotel will rebrand as Holiday Inn Waikiki Beachcomber Resort later this year.

  
  

  © Go Visit Hawaii – Republication of this entire post is prohibited without prior permission. Using extracts of less than 100 words are permitted with full attribution and link back to GoVisitHawaii.com.

  
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  Fields of Hawaii: Steam Fields

  Posted: August 4th, 2010, 12:19pm EDT by sheila

  Tags:  Big Island See Do  

  

  This field is smokin' hot!

  Our Fields of Hawaii Series gets hot and steamy today with a look at Hawaii’s fields of steam. You’ll find these surprising landscape of steam vents at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park on the Big Island. (See my tips for visiting Hawaii Volcanoes National Park.) You’ll see them dotted throughout the park. The steam vents shown in these photos are just east of the visitor’s center off Crater Rim Drive.

  The steam comes from cracks in the rock and ground of the Kilauea Caldera. Rainwater seeps through the ground and is heated by rocks which carry heat from the liquid rock below. The heated water then rises through the cracks to condense in the chilled air.

  Watching the earth steam is a surreal scene and a reminder that that you are standing on an active volcano!

  

  Steam wafts up from the ground in one of many vents in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

  This post is part of our ongoing series looking at the expected and unexpected fields that make Hawaii unique. Other posts in this series are:

  • Fields of Greens (Highlights Hawaii’s top-notch golf courses.)
  • Pineapple Fields
  • Sugar Cane Fields
  • Rock Garden of the Gods
  • Lava Fields
  • Coffee Fields

  
  

  © Go Visit Hawaii – Republication of this entire post is prohibited without prior permission. Using extracts of less than 100 words are permitted with full attribution and link back to GoVisitHawaii.com.

  

Hawaii Travel Guide

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  Lava from Hawaii volcano reaches sea

  Posted: July 27th, 2010, 2:02pm EDT by Bruce Fisher

  Tags:  Big Island  

   

  Lava from the Kilauea Volcano on the Big Island of Hawaii has reached the sea but is still threatening homes.  Those hoping to catch a glimpse of the action are being warned not to disturb area residents.  

  Although the lava flow was able to push up and over a slope to the sea, lava is still flowing along the ridge to the coastal plane near homes in Kalapana.  Over the past 24 hours, the lava has advanced 425 feet toward Kalapana Gardens.  According to the United States Geological Survey, "A nearly continuously active flow front is creeping into a remaining and topographically low kipuka at the western edge of the subdivision, causing small brush fires and methane explosions."  One home was destroyed over the weekend.  Authorities warn that Kalapana Gardens is a private subdivision and access is granted only to residents.  The land along highway 130 is also private property.  Hawai‘i County police are monitoring the area.  There are also minor scattered flows to the west and upslope of the Highway 137 flow.

  

   Lava is continuing to enter the ocean, but the USGS estimates that less lava is headed that direction than is flowing toward the residential area.  Earlier estimates had been that once the lava was able to make its way to the sea, the amount flowing towards homes would decrease.  That appears not to have happened, at least not yet.

  By late Monday, lava had created a small delta in the sea, which is growing as more lava flows onto it from the sea cliff.

  Kilauea is an active volcano, with quiet periods and times of increased activity.  This update and photos are provided by the USGS Hawaiian Volcano Observatory.

  Posted by Cindy Scheopner  Follow me on Twitter @Scheopner

  

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  Lava from Hawaii volcano nears sea, homes

  Posted: July 24th, 2010, 4:25pm EDT by Bruce Fisher

  Tags:  Big Island  

  

  Lava can again be seen flowing from a volcano on the Big Island of Hawai‘i.  Lava flows today have reached the edge of a slope, which is sending the lava along the ridge to the east and west.  Eastern flows bring the lava closer to residences.  The United States Geological Service says that if the flows get stronger, they may push over the ridge and into the ocean.  The USGS created a composite image that uses a normal photograph along with thermal imaging to show the active flow front in Kalapana.

  Beginning last weekend, eruptive activity took place at two locations.  One is in what is called the "east rift zone" where lava is flowing through tubes to the surface along highway 137.  That advance is near homes.  As the lava met the Kalapana access road, the burning asphalt created a plume of thick, black smoke.

  Big Island police caution visitors that travel is restricted in that area.  Vehicles are allowed to drive into the roadway from the point where Route 130 is covered by lava up to a parking lot with a guard shack.  Beyond that point, the road is closed to everyone but residents.  The only people allowed to park along the road beyond the warning sign are those who work with the Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park.   A second area of activity is at the summit eruptive vent within Halema‘uma‘u Crater.  There, a "crusted and circulating lava pond produced red glow visible from the Jaggar Museum overnight."  A description of this vent is provided by the USGS Hawaiian Volcano Observatory   "Halema`uma`u Overlook vent: has been difficult to describe concisely. The vent is actually a pit, or crater, in the floor of the larger Halema`uma`u Crater in the floor of the larger Kilauea caldera or crater - a crater within a crater within a crater. It is easiest to describe as a pit inset within the floor of a crater within a caldera. The pit is about 140 m (460 ft) in diameter at the Halema`uma`u Crater floor, is about 50 m in diameter at the pit floor, and is about 200 m (660 ft) deep. As of November, 2009, a lava pond surface has been visible in a hole in the floor of this pit."   Kilauea is always an active volcano, but fresh lava flows do not always extend out to where they are visibile by residents or visitors.  Kilauea erupts from three main areas: its summit and two rift zones.  The summit is high due to the frequent eruptions but the USGS says more eruptions occur at the long rift zones, which creates ridges that reach out from the summit.  Many of the eruptions are gentle, with lava flows of several yards that increase the hight of the summit and build up the rift zones.  According to the USGS, sporadic explosions will continue to cause destruction, "We cannot tell how much larger Kilauea will grow or when it will stop, but it will surely continue to erupt through the rest of human history"   (Photo of lava on road by Richard Denton, thermal image courtesy of the U.S. Department of Interior, U.S. Geological Survey.)   Posted by Cindy Scheopner  Follow me on Twitter @Scheopner   Related post: Visiting a Volcano in Hawaii

  

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  Hawaii Island at Higher Elevations - Volcano Village

  Posted: July 22nd, 2010, 3:01pm EDT by Bruce Fisher

  Tags:  Big Island  

  

  If "sea level Hawaii" is all you’ve experienced, you are definitely missing out on many of Hawaii’s scenic treasures–and some real adventure.

  Many people, when they think of Hawaii, immediately see images of white sand beaches, coconut trees and mai-tais in the tropical sun. Not that there’s anything wrong with that–you aren’t likely to find anyone who lives here turning down a luxurious beach day or their favorite sunset cocktail!  But, on your next visit, may I suggest getting to know Hawaii at higher elevations?

  On the Big Island, there are a number of opportunities to experience "upcountry" Hawaii, but people taking a Hawaii vacation often put at the top of their itinerary a visit to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park–a great place to get your first taste of the Big Island at 4,000 ft. above sea level. The Park is a designated International Biosphere Reserve and a World Heritage Site, so if you spend some time here you can explore up to seven ecological zones (seacoast, lowland, mid-elevation woodland, rain forest, upland forest, subalpine, and alpine) in one trip.

  I recommend, if it is at all possible, staying at a Volcano Village bed & breakfast for a couple of nights during your Big Island visit. Most folks don’t realize how long the drive from Kona or the Kohala coast to Volcano will really feel by the time you reach the Volcanoes National Park. Being able to relax and enjoy the Village as well as the Park will make your trip to Hawaii’s Big Island much more enjoyable.

  There are a few great restaurants in Volcano–Kilauea Lodge is one favorite of mine (we’ve gone there for many special occasions and, for a few years, going to the Lodge for Thanksgiving Day dinner was a highly-anticipated treat). But you’ll also want to reserve some time just to slow down and soak in the stunning beauty of the lush rainforest. Ohia forests and hapu’u ferns abound here–making Volcano Village an ideal place for a restful morning cup of coffee and or reading on your lanai as well as for getting up close and personal with "madame Pele" and her volcanic playground when you’re ready to explore the Park.

  (Photo: Though beautiful, kahili ginger is an invasive species commonly found in the Volcano area.)

  Posted by: Cynthia Hoskins.  Follow me on Twitter.

  We are happy to welcome Cynthia’s contribution to the Hawaii-Aloha Travel blog this week.  Cynthia will tell us about other ways to see Hawai‘i at higher elevations in future posts, as well as other notes about the Big Island.

  If you live in Hawaii and would like to contribute a post, email:  blogeditor@hawaii-aloha.com.

  

Hawaii Vacation Advice

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  Visiting Kona’s Greenwell Store

  Posted: July 22nd, 2010, 12:34pm EDT by Guest Post

  Tags:  Big Island See Do  

  This guest post was written by the lovely Laura Dinaro from Italy. Laura and her husband Marco will soon be on their way to a much anticipated return visit to Hawaii. As Laura was preparing for their trip, she ran across a very nice memory from their previous visit to Hawaii’s Big Island. Mahalo to Laura and Marco for sharing this vacation memory with us.

  ——
  

  A few days before our “grand trip” to magical Big Island  (August 2008)  we happened to read about the Kona Historical Society, who wants to preserve the fascinating history of the Kona district.

  We love to try and know as much as we can about history & traditions of the places we visit; so we paid a call to that society and went for a visit to  the Greenwell Store. See the following photo of the Greenwell Store in 1930.

  

  At the end of the 19th century, that building served the community as post office, general merchandise store and meeting place. Now it’s managed by the Kona Historical Society, to re-create for tourists those times.

  A costumed  man was our host inside the store. It was a sort of “role playing” game. I  “played” Lisa Todd, the “esteemed client” buying some goods of the 1890’s!

  Yes, they were  the exact copies e.g. of  shaving soap or curling-tongs used in those years provided by the Smithsonian Institution!

  

  Laura pretends to purchase goods from 1890 in Greenwell Store

  I can still smell the mingled aromas of salted fish, leather, coffee beans and wool … and so liked a pink calico that our polite “vendor” showed me! ( No, you cannot buy anything, you’re just playing a role).

  Our visit was so fascinating that we also arranged for a private guided tour of historical Kona with another member of the Society for the following day. If memory serves me right, we paid about $60 for the private tour, but it was well worth it!  We had a very kind guide. He really seemed  happy to share with us stories about the first tourists coming to Kailua pier, as well as Hawaiian legends, history of Big island, folklore and so much more.

  When  tour came to an end … both Marco and I were very satisfied and felt like being “ohana”  to the island and its rich past.

  —-

  The H.N. Greenwell Store is open Monday – Thursday 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. Admission is $7.00 for adults, and $3.00 for children ages 5-12. Children under 5 are free. Reservations are not needed, but you may call 808-323-3222to check availability.

  For more information on Greenwell Store and other historical sites and tours, visit www.KonaHistorical.org.

  
  

  © Go Visit Hawaii – Republication of this entire post is prohibited without prior permission. Using extracts of less than 100 words are permitted with full attribution and link back to GoVisitHawaii.com.

  
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  Hawaii Vacation Deals & News: July 8, 2010

  Posted: July 8th, 2010, 11:24am EDT by sheila

  Tags:  Big Island Deals  

  

  Whoa! I’ve got bunches and bunches of Hawaii travel news to share with you today. So, fasten your seatbelts and prepare for take off.

  * Travel+ Leisure issued their 2010 World’s Best Awards. Kauai (#2), Maui (#8), and the Big Island (#10) made the Top 10 Islands List. You may be interested in seeing the Top 25 Resorts in Hawaii.

  * Limber up your booking fingers and prepare to snag one of Honolulu’s Ala Moana Hotel rooms at $40/night. This low offer will be available for booking online on July 14, 2010, beginning at 4:40 p.m. Hawaii Standard Time. See this link for more details.

  * Another Hawaii great is celebrating their 40th birthday this year – the Kona Coffee Festival. This cultural festival takes place November 5 – 14 on the Big Island, of course. See more about the festival here.

  * Hawaii’s Prince properties have great a room and rental car deal. This limited time deal includes a free rental car on top of a low room rate. It’s definitely worth considering, especially if you are headed to the Big Island. Those are the best Prince properties, in my opinion. See all the details here and book before July 17, 2010.

  * Readers of USA Today voted Honolulu as the Best American Destination. Congrats Honolulu!

  * Homespun Honolulu just published a new issue of the Blog Carnival of Aloha.

  * Hawaii Forest & Trail is offering a new twilight volcano tour that’s perfect for a quick exploration of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park and a view of the active lava flow at Kalapana. This Twilight Volcano Adventure is a 12-hour round-trip tour that departs from the Kona side of the Big Island. See more about it here.

  * I was contacted by the folks from the Entertainment Book telling me that Go Visit Hawaii is among a select group of publishers able to offer the 2010 Hawaii Entertainment Book for only $7.99. This deal is valid through July 14. To order the book, see this special Go Visit Hawaii affiliate link. As we have previously discussed, the Hawaii Entertainment Book can quickly pay for itself many times over if you are going to Oahu. You’ll recoup your money and save much more from the luau coupons alone.To review that discussion, see this post, Hawaii Entertainment Coupon Books – Worth the price? One catch to let you know is that the coupons in the 2010 book expire November 1, 2010.

  © Go Visit Hawaii – Republication of this entire post is prohibited without prior permission. Using extracts of less than 100 words are permitted with full attribution and link back to GoVisitHawaii.com.

  

Hawaii Vacation

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  Best Big Island Hiking 2

  Posted: July 8th, 2010, 4:33am EDT by Pua

  Tags:  kohalacoast Big Island vacation  

  Dear Hawaii lovers, Good news for our recent 'Best Hawaii sunset photos'. Hawaii vacation home owners loved to share their very own sunset photos, unique in each way as you can see, and Hawaii visitors enjoyed viewing them. What is a Hawaii vacation without a sunset photo!
  
  We are ready to 'hele on' with more Best Big Island hiking, as promised on our post 'Best Big Island Hiking1', which showed you photos of Pololu Valley and talked about hiking Pololu Valley. Here is the sequel 'Best Big Island Hiking 2', which will tell you a lot about Waipio Valley hikes. This order is not according to its relevance. It's just that we had to start with one Valley. Believe me both our Big Island Valleys, Pololu and Waipio Valley, are of unique beauty and are a Big Island hikers' delight.
  
  
  Waipio Valley located on the Hamakua Coast of the Big Island of Hawai'i, is the largest and southernmost of the seven valleys on the windward side of the Kohala Mountains. Waipi'o is a mile wide at the coast and almost six miles deep. At the coast there is a beautiful black sand beach. On either side of the valley are cliffs reaching almost 2000 feet affording views of cascading waterfalls during the rainy season.
  
  
  How can Big Island visitors explore Waipio Valley? the easiest way is driving your car on Hwy 19 to Honokaa where life seems to have stood still with all the the small retail stores along Main Street. After your Honokaa town tour, follow the signs to Waipio Valley which you can't miss as Waipio Valley Lookout is at the end of the road. Fun part is even if you come on a cloudy day, as we did when I took these photos last year, you will always be able to snap some great photos of Waipio Valley from the Lookout with the steep coastal cliffs as a backdrop.
  
  
  Provided you are in good shape, you can walk down into the valley but remember you have always to make it back up and it's steep. Only 4x4 can make it down into Waipio Valley. The valley will reward you with some amazing views and adventures. Waipio Valley is also a favorite spot for local surfers who love to ride the tough surf there. The higher, the better! That's when the TV reporter says 'Don't try this at home!'. Better stick with the horseback riding or Wagon tours. Most of them pick you up at Waipio Valley Lookout, take you into the valley and start the adventure there.
  
  
  Our favorite Waipio Valley hike has always been White Rd hike in the past. A hike which starts at some cattle meadows with stunning views of snow-covered Mauna Kea summit in winter and leads through singing bamboo, 'jungly' forest with wild colorful impatients, bottle brush trees and lots of ferns along the trails. After a modest hike of about 45 minutes, the scenery suddenly opens and you can just stand there in awe and utter 'Wow'. You will be standing on a small narrow trail of the valley rim, high above the valley, allowing magnificent views of the ocean and the waterfalls across the valley. Hikers' boots recommended when going further!
  
  
  Unfortunately, White Rd hike, which has always been a special recommendation in Big Island hiking books, is now only available through HawaiianWalkways hiking tours, which made arrangements with the land owner. We don't know what exactly happened but the owner of the private land does not allow the general public to use this trail anymore. If you are not a lover of guided hiking tours, you may still access Waipio Valley rim from a different route starting in Waimea. Waimea residents, who love to hike, will tell you.
  
  
  That's it for today with Big Island hiking Waipio Valley. What's your best Big Island hiking experience? Let us know. Mahalo and aloha, Pua Hawaii Vacations p.s. Please, also visit our 'July Carnival of Aloha' which is hosted by Evelyn from 'Homespun Honolulu' and brings together our Hawaii blog ohana.
  
  Tags: Big Island vacation, Best Big Island hiking, hiking in Hawaiihttp://kohalacoastweb.blogspot.com/feeds/posts/default?alt=rss

Hawaii Vacation Advice

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  Hawaii Vacation Deals & News: June 24, 2010

  Posted: June 24th, 2010, 12:28pm EDT by sheila

  Tags:  Big Island Deals  

  Let’s see what’s on our path to Hawaii vacation fun and savings today.

  

  Allerton Gardens at National Tropical Botanical Garden in Kauai

  * Have you been on the fence about your next Hawaii vacation? Well, it’s definitely time to check airfares. I’ve noticed quite a few good deals from all over the country for summer and fall travel. Here are examples from airfarewatchdog.

  • Los Angeles to Honolulu – $351 roundtrip including taxes
  • Atlanta to Honolulu – $627 roundtrip including taxes
  • Columbus to Honolulu – $598 roundtrip including taxes
  • Hartford to Honolulu – $618 roundtrip including taxes

  For more advice, see this article: Strategies for Finding the Lowest Airfare to Hawaii

  * The Big Island’s Mauna Lani has a nice little summertime deal great for families or splitting with friends. Here’s how it works, you book a room a the best available rate and then get a second room at $99 per night. This deal is valid through September 30, 2010. Check out this link for more information on this deal and others at Mauna Lani.

  * While we’re talking about the Mauna Lani, I’d like to highlight something that set this resort apart from some others. They offer their guests bunches of complimentary amenities and activities that you’d have to pay for individually or pay a daily resort fee at many other resorts. Check out this page that lists all the services guests can enjoy.

  * I was included among a select group of travel writers to take part in TripBase’s Best Kept Travel Secrets, featuring 500 inspirational travel secrets from 200 of the world’s best travel bloggers. You can download this eBook for free! For every person that downloads this eBook the nice folks at Tripbase will make a $1 donation to the fantastic cause, Charity: Water.

  We’re on facebook! Please click here to join us.

  © Go Visit Hawaii – Republication of this entire post is prohibited without prior permission. Using extracts of less than 100 words are permitted with full attribution and link back to GoVisitHawaii.com.

  
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  Fields of Hawaii: The Lava Fields

  Posted: June 23rd, 2010, 11:44am EDT by sheila

  Tags:  Big Island  

  

  It would be difficult to visit the Big Island of Hawaii without seeing massive fields of lava –- a surreal and impressive sight. Two areas where you’ll surely find fields of lava around the Kohala Coast and in and around Hawaii Volcanoes National Park.

  The above photo shows lava flowing into the ocean near Kalapana on the east side of the Big Island. When I watched this fresh lava flow, I repeated one word over and over. That was the word wow.

  
  

  © Go Visit Hawaii – Republication of this entire post is prohibited without prior permission. Using extracts of less than 100 words are permitted with full attribution and link back to GoVisitHawaii.com.

  
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  Big Island July 4th Fireworks & Events 2010

  Posted: June 21st, 2010, 4:45pm EDT by sheila

  Tags:  Big Island  

  There’s a heap of big fun to be had on the Big Island this July 4th. So, whether you’re planning a Big Island vacation or you’re a Hawaii resident, you’ll have plenty of good choices for celebrating this Independence Day. Here’s a guide to what’s going on and where to celebrate across Hawaii’s Big Island.

  Great Waikoloa Rubber Duckie Race & 4th of July Fireworks – Waikoloa Beach Resort on the Kohala Coast is hosting a great line up of events at their two shopping centers – Kings’ Shops and Queens’ Marketplace. You’ll find games, a kiddie’s train ride, food, live music, and then fireworks at 8pm. See this link for the complete schedule of events. .

  Kailua-Kona Community 4th of July Parade & Fireworks Celebration – A fun parade through Kailua-Kona starts at 5:30 followed by fireworks display over Kailua Bay at 8:30pm. This year’s them is Celebrate Freedom and will feature Hawaii’s Senator Daniel K. Inouye as the Grand Marshal. This free event is presented by the Kailua-Kona Community Parade Association. For more information on this July 4th parade and fireworks display, see this link.

  Turtle Independence Day and July 4th BBQ –  Now, here’s a July 4th celebration that you’ll only find in Hawaii. The annual Turtle Independence Day celebration honors the honu (Hawaiian Green Sea Turtle) and educates the public about this endangered Hawaiian sea turtle. Since 1989, Mauna Lani Bay Hotel and Bungalows has received 3-5 month old juvenile honu  from Oahu’s Sea Life Park and has raised them in the saltwater ponds of the resort. The honu are cared for until they grow to a size and weight that is deemed appropriate for release into the ocean. Mauna Lani generally raises the honu for 2-3 years until they grow to a minimum shell length of 35 cm. The release occurs every July 4 at the ocean’s edge fronting Mauna Lani. Over the years Mauna Lani has released 206 honu.

  The honu will be gathered at the ponds before joining a procession down to the beachfront for release. A Hawaiian ceremony will take place at the beach. As part of the day’s activities guests can also enjoy live Hawaiian entertainment, an educational display about the honu and a special July 4 BBQ with menu items including Big Island Beef hamburgers, vegetarian burgers, jumbo beef hot dogs, corn dogs on a stick, grilled Hilo Corn on the cob and more.

  You can enjoy the Turtle Independence Day festivities from 10:30am until noon at Mauna Lani Bay Hotel and Bungalows at 68-1400 Mauna Lani Drive on the Kohala Coast of Hawaii’s Big Island. The turtle celebration is free and the BBQ food is offered at individual menu prices. For more information, call 808-885-6622

  Hilo 4th of July Fireworks – Hilo will have aerial fireworks display from Coconut Island starting at 8pm. You can view the fireworks from the Hilo Bayfront. (Mahalo to Big Island Visitors Bureau for their help in finding this Hilo event.)

  Volcano Village July 4th Parade & Celebration -  This Independence Day parade will begin at 9 a.m. at the Volcano Post Office and proceed for one half mile along Old Volcano Road to Cooper Community Center. The parade will feature the Hawaii County Band, floats, antique cars, fire engines, bicycles, horses, and animals in costumes! Music, games, food booths, dunking pond, craft fair and prizes to follow. Call Betsy Mitchell for more information at (808) 967-7209. (Per KonaWeb)

  Parker Ranch Independence Weekend Rodeo – Celebrate July 4th cowboy style at the 48th Annual Independence Weekend Rodeo and Horse Races at the Parker Ranch Rodeo Arena in Waimea. Action begins at 9am and continues until noon. Tickets for the Sunday, July 4th event are $5 in advance and $6 at the gate. For more information, visit this link.

  Ka’u 4th of July Parade & Ho’olaulea — Event will take place from 10am-6pm. Parade on Hwy. 11 will begin at 10am, featuring pa’u riders, classic cars. floats and marchers, followed by a ho’olaulea at the ball park from 11am-6pm. Food, crafts, service booths, and a full lineup of entertainment are planned. (Source: KonaWeb)

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  Hawaii Vacation Deals & News: June 17, 2010

  Posted: June 17th, 2010, 12:11pm EDT by sheila

  Tags:  Big Island Deals  

  Today’s news features two festivals, a Big Island restaurant deal and a baby dolphin. What a winning combination!
  
  * Need a good reason to go to Maui next week? How about making plans to attend the 29th annual Kapalua Wine & Food Festival? It’s a four-day culinary extravaganza that I really, really, really want to attend someday. Since I can’t go this year, I think you should go and then tell me all about it. Here’s where to order tickets for the events.

  * Hawaii Island Festival – 30 Days of Aloha begins on August 28th. The festival will celebrate the Big Island’s cultural traditions and aloha spirit. See this link for the schedule of events.

  * The CanoeHouse restaurant at the Big Island’s Mauna Lani resort offers a very nice prix fixe menu of three courses for $49 per person. To get the deal, you need to be seated between 5:30 and 6:00pm and order from this menu.

  * Enter to win a 3-night vacation to Waikiki including airfare for two and some other perks from Sea Life Park Hawaii. They’re offering this giveaway to name and celebrate the arrival of a new baby dolphin. See this link to enter.

  
  

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• 

  Kona Village (Big Island) Luau Review

  Posted: June 15th, 2010, 12:12pm EDT by sheila

  Tags:  Big Island Restaurants  

  

  Since we’ve been to a number of luaus all over Hawaii, we have a good comparison base to evaluate the quality of the experience. The Friday night luau at Kona Village definitely offers a top notch dinner and show.

  The Kona Village luau set by the private lagoons of this tranquil resort village. Kona Village has dedicated luau grounds with a covered buffet area, two stages and an excellent lighting system that brought the show to life.

  At this luau, there’s almost constant entertainment including a coconut opening demonstration, a fantastic imu ceremony, excellent live music, and then the Polynesian dancing on two different stages.

  To be honest, I don’t normally have high expectations of the food at luaus. I think I feel that way because I’m not a fan of buffets and most of the luau foods we’ve had in the past were nothing to write home about. However, we thought that the Kona Village luau food was excellent and the selection far exceed what we’ve experienced at other luaus in Hawaii.

  The Polynesian dancing show was presented on two stages – a large stage situated across a small lagoon and a smaller stage that was close to the audience. I think that having the show on two different stages helped to keep our interest in the performances. Like other luaus, this show takes you on a journey through the major Polynesian islands, so you get to see a variety of Polynesian dances and costumes.

  

  Fireknife Dancer

  Other aspects of the Kona Village luau we enjoyed:

  

  Imu Ceremony

  - This luau presented one of the best imu ceremonies we’ve seen. There was plenty of space around for guests to observe the unearthing of the foods. The mistress of ceremonies used a microphone to explain what was cooked, how it was cooked, how it was removed, etc. Unlike some other luaus, it was easy to hear and see the process.

  - At some luaus, you don’t really eat what you observed at the imu ceremony. I’m pretty certain that what we had was actually cooked that day in the imu. The kalua pork was hot and fresh.

  - We thought the kulua pork was some of the best we’ve had in Hawaii. For those watching what they eat, you might like the turkey that they cook in the imu. I’ve not seen imu-cooked turkey offered at any other luau.

  - The grand finale of the show featured an excellent fireknife dancer.

  Some other considerations:

  - Kona Village offers luaus on Wednesdays and Fridays.

  - If you stay at Kona Village Resort, your admissions to their luaus are complimentary.

  - Some luaus are set ocean side or with ocean views. The Kona Village Luau does not have ocean views.

  - This luau is somewhat pricey compared to other Big Island luaus. This luau cost $98 per person plus tax. Admission includes gratuity, an orchid lei crown for the ladies and one drink per person. For children, admission pricing is $67 ages 6-12 and $40 for ages 3-5.

  Andy snapped a bunch of photos from this luau. You can look at all four pages of them here.

  Have you been to the Kona Village Luau? How was your experience?

  © Go Visit Hawaii – Republication of this entire post is prohibited without prior permission. Using extracts of less than 100 words are permitted with full attribution and link back to GoVisitHawaii.com.

  

Hawaii Travel Guide

• 

  Visiting a Volcano in Hawaii

  Posted: June 3rd, 2010, 6:32pm EDT by Bruce Fisher

  Tags:  Big Island  

  

        How close can you get to a volcano?  In Hawaii, the answer may depend more on your nose than your knees.  The Volcanoes National Park has areas that are easily accessible to visitors of all physical abilities but they come with an air quality warning.

        The park brochure contains this visitor alert: "High amounts of dangerous sulphur dioxide gas are present in areas of the park."  When Rick visited over Memorial Day, the volcanic "vog" covered the coastline like a bank of clouds as they approached the island of Hawaii by boat.  The air quality varies and updates are available from the park.

        If you have no respiratory problems, the park provides unparalleled access to this geological phenomenon.  It is possible to drive through the park and pullouts allow you to take in panoramic views.  Wheelchairs for use in the park are available from the visitor center and many areas of the park and campgrounds are wheelchair accessible.

        Walking and hiking trails offer a closer view.  The visitor center provides information about trails, their difficulty and how long to allow for each hike.  It is very important to stay on marked trails and to prepare for hot, shadeless treks across lava fields.  Both day hikes and backcountry camping are allowed with proper permits.

        It is possible to see the plume of smoke from the active volcano, the eerie landscape produced by lava flows, and even a lava tube in a one-day visit.  The ten-dollar park pass is good for a week, however, so you might want to plan for more than one trip.  The extensive network of hiking trails invites extended exploration.

        Kilauea Volcano is the home of Pele, the Hawaiian volcano goddess.  Oral traditions tell of many eruptions from ancient times.  It has erupted 34 times since 1952 and continuously since 1983.  The USGS ranks Kilauea among the world’s most active volcanoes and says it may even top the list.

  Posted by Cindy Scheopner  Follow me on Twitter @Scheopner

  Related post: Kilauea Eruption Status

  

Hawaii Vacation

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  Best Big Island Hiking 1

  Posted: May 29th, 2010, 9:14am EDT by Pua

  Tags:  kohalacoast Big Island vacation  

  After telling our Maui visitors about chances of seeing famous celebrities in Hawaii sooner or later on their Maui vacation, maybe even watching them dancing a hula, let's return to the real Hawaii adventures. Admittedly, celebrities in Hawaii is not everybody's cup of tea.
  
  In the history of our 'Best Hawaii Vacation blog', we have talked a lot about the exciting adventures visitors to Hawaii Big Island can expect on their Hawaii vacation. If you are getting ready for your Big Island vacation, please, visit our Big Island vacation articles. Actually, our today's post fits right into the Big Island adventure theme: Best Big Island Hiking 1. We called it #1: Hiking Pololu Valley, meaning more Big Island Hiking will follow!
  
  
  The Big Island visitor will find Pololu Valley in the very northern tip of the Big Island. Best to get an idea of the remote location of Pololu Valley is with our Big Island map. When driving north from Kawaihae on the S. Kohala Coast on the coastal Hwy 270, calculate some extra time for stops at Lapakai and Mahukona State Parks. You can even get some serious snorkeling in right then and there. On your way to Hawi, the traditional biking route of the Big Island Ironman Triathlon, enjoy the magnificent coastal views and learn to appreciate what tough challenges the triathletes face on their way.
  
  
  Arriving in Hawi and Kapaau takes you back to the days of old Hawaii. Hawi is a sleepy little town is filled with art galleries, shops and a few restaurants whereas Kapaau is celebrated for being the birthplace of King Kamehameha I. After strolling through those two towns, it's time to head further on the road to your final destination: Pololu Valley.
  
  
  Be aware that the road to Pololu Valley Lookout is very narrow and most of the time the parking spaces close to the lookout are taken. When you see a good spot to park your car ahead, be smart and do so. On your walk to the viewing area, you will enjoy some special views as well. Of course, you will hear the biggest aahs and oohs when standing on the viewing platform overlooking breathtaking Pololu Valley. It's one of those moments and views on your Hawaii vacation on the Big Island you won't ever forget!
  
  
  
  Hiking down into the Pololu Valley is steep but it goes in serpentines, it's moderate and feasible for most everybody. After about 30minutes continuous downhill - remember you have got to make it back up - the reward will be the sounds and views of thunderous waves crashing on a black sand beach. Please, take the sign no swimming serious.
  
  
  
  In addition to this very special Pololu Valley hiking adventure, there is another hike starting at one of the gates near the Pololu Vally lookout. This hike leads an a trail to a secret waterfall and is considered one of the best Big Island hikes. Please, don't climb over the gate. You need a special hiking permit for this trail. But if you want to add this special Pololu Valley Hike to your Big Island hiking adventures, check with one of our hiking companies like HawaiianWalkways or Forest and Trails and ask them for this hike.
  
  
  We can't wait to hear from Big Island hikers about their Pololu Valley hike and what they like best on their hike. Mahalo and aloha, Pua Hawaii Vacations
  
  Tags: Big Island hiking, hike Big Island, best Big Island hiking, hiking in Hawaii http://kohalacoastweb.blogspot.com/feeds/posts/default?alt=rss

Hawaii Travel Guide

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  Romance in Hawaii is more affordable then you think

  Posted: May 27th, 2010, 8:42pm EDT by Bruce Fisher

  Tags:  Big Island  

  

  Very often when people think of Hawaii for a honeymoon or anniversary they rule it out because they think it’s too expensive. While it’s true that Hawaii is not the cheapest destination it’s certainly can be affordable especially this year. We  have and continue to see tremendous deals on all islands with emphasis on romance.

  Here are some ideas that can help you get started:

  A popular resort on Oahu for romance lovers is the Turtle Bay Resort. They’re running a special romance package which includes buffet breakfast, sparkling wine and fresh strawberries on arrival. It also includes a convertible car throughout the stay which start at about $350 per night. If you want to take it a step further, the resort has breathtaking waterfront locations where you can either renew or exchange vows.

  Another popular resort, located right on the shores of Waikiki Beach, is the newly renovated Outrigger Reef on the Beach. This property just completed a $110 million renovation complete with an outrigger museum. Every Tuesday and Friday they offer a complementary vow renewal ceremony conducted by a Hawaiian kahu or priest. The ceremony even includes hula and Hawaiian music and is available to guests who are staying at the Outrigger on the beach, a sister property nearby. The Reef also has excellent discounted rates which include daily breakfast.

  On Maui, romance seekers can get the "You complete me Romance amenity" at the Sheraton Maui which can be added to any package or rate. The offer includes one category room upgrade, a king size bed guarantee, champagne, chocolate covered strawberries, a tropical floral arrangement and bath amenities which include his and hers Yukata robes. Couples also get a choice of either an intimate dinner under the stars, a room service breakfast or the use of a beach cabana for the day. The entire package is $800 and is all inclusive.

  Over on Kauai Marriott has put together a complete package for those wishing to use the facility to get married. The package lets you choose any location on the property includes the minister, private gazebo, champagne, a deluxe bridal bouquet and boutonniere for the groom. The deal also includes wedding photography and a Hawaiian guitarist and all of the services of the Kauai Marriott wedding coordinator. The cost of the package is 3599 and rooms start at 199 per night.

  The Mauna Kea Resort on the Big Island has a great wedding package located in this majestic setting. Called the "Ilima wedding package" it includes a personal wedding consultant, arranged appointment for a marriage license, clergy for the ceremony, tiki torches, a water station, white floral lei for the bride and a maile kei for the groom, a wedding cake and fresh flowers. The package also comes with professional musicians, time with a wedding photographer, a romantic dinner for two, a one hour lomi lomi couples massage, spa treatment and a deluxe oceanfront room on the wedding night. The total price for this package is $6800.

  There are many more romance and Hawaii honeymoon deals that you can take advantage of if you’re planning a romantic Hawaiian experience. Almost all the major resorts can accommodate your needs however, it’s best to check with one of our agents to see what’s available. All of our agents are experts at planning packages so just give us a call at 1-800-843-8771 and any agent can help.

  Posted by Bruce Fisher follow me on twitter @alohabruce
   

  

Hawaii Vacation Advice

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  Sending Postcards from a Volcano

  Posted: May 19th, 2010, 12:36pm EDT by sheila

  Tags:  Big Island See Do  

  

  Did you know that it’s possible to send mail from a volcano? It’s true. On Hawaii’s Big Island, there’s a  village called Volcano and it’s located along the caldera of Kilauea Volcano just a mile or so from the entrance to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park.

  One fun vacation idea is to send a letter or postcard from the Volcano Post Office to your friends and family. I know this may sound odd, but I’ve even mailed myself a postcard from Volcano as a souvenir. Stop in during the post office business hours and politely ask the staff to hand cancel your letter or postcard with the Volcano stamp. Your friends and family will be impressed to receive your thoughtful post from a volcano.

  See this link for this post office’s business hours. Volcano Post Office is located at 19-4030 Old Volcano Highway, Volcano, HI.
  
  View Larger Map

  

Hawaii Travel Guide

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  Hawaii has Exceptional Trees

  Posted: May 18th, 2010, 1:57pm EDT by Bruce Fisher

  Tags:  Big Island  

  

  A large tree welcomes visitors to the University of Hawaii campus, providing cool shade and the smell of –  skunk.  Yep, that’s its name: the Skunk Tree, or Java Olive. 

  I have smelled actual skunks and the tree isn’t quite as pungent, but it’s strong and unpleasant enough that I hold my breath when passing.  Before I came to Hawaii, I thought the only trees that had a smell were pines.  I love the faint pine scent that seems to linger all over Colorado.  But regular trees in the yard didn’t really have a particular smell.  Here, so many trees have flowers that I’ve come to associate pleasant smells with trees – at least with most trees.

  The skunk tree is on the list of Exceptional Trees maintained by the City and County of Honolulu.  Each county has its own list of exceptional trees as a result of the Exceptional Tree Act, passed in 1975.  The law was passed out of concern that rapid development had led to the destruction of many of the state’s exceptional trees.  According to the state website, “The Act recognizes that trees are valuable for their beauty and they perform crucial ecological functions.”  The act mandates that each county set up its own program for protecting exceptional trees.

  To be recognized as an exceptional tree, the tree or grove must have a historic or cultural value, be unique as to location, size, esthetic quality, age or endemic status.  Once the tree receives the designation, an approval permit is needed to prune them or do other tree work.

  The skunk tree is one of several exceptional trees on the Manoa campus.  It is from the Cocoa Family (Sterculia Foetida).  The UH plants brochure says it produces red and yellow flowers and calls the smell “an unpleasant odor reminiscent of stale tobacco.” The tree smell is much stronger when it is flowering.  The brochure says the seeds in its scarlet fruit are used in making seed lei and can be eaten raw or roasted “but have a purgative effect if eaten in quantity.” Oh, my.  Yet another reason to admire this particular tree from afar.

  Posted by Cindy Scheopner  Follow me on Twitter @Scheopner

   

   

  

Hawaii Vacation Advice

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  Hawaii Vacation Deals & News: May 5, 2010

  Posted: May 5th, 2010, 11:45am EDT by sheila

  Tags:  Big Island Deals  

  We’ve got a bit of news to catch up on, so let’s dive in.

  * Hawaii Starwoods Resorts are offering some great resort credits deals when you stay 5 consecutive nights. The resort credits vary by property but range from $500 to $1000 for every 5-night stay. Stay ten nights and the credit is doubled.

  * Prince Resorts Hawaii have a May Day Sale on their Oahu and Big Island properties. The best deal of the bunch is the $169 per night rate at the Hapuna Beach Prince Hotel. That’s a 4-star property on one of the Big Island’s best beaches. For this sale, you must book by May 10, 2010.

  * 2010 Hawaii Entertainment Book is on sale for $15 (more than 50% off) plus free shipping through May 15h. Click this link to read more and order your book. As we have previously discussed, the Hawaii Entertainment Book can quickly pay for itself if you are going to Oahu. To review that discussion, see this post, Hawaii Entertainment Coupon Books – Worth the price?

  * The Big Island is getting bigger, again. Lava is flowing to the ocean after a 4-month break. It is flowing near the same area next to Kalapana at the end of Highway 130.  Here’s a video of the lava reaching and contributing to a black sand beach. The video was filmed by volcanochaser on May 3, 2010. (Email subscribers: click here to access the video.)

  
  

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• 

  Where’s the Rain in Rainbow Falls?

  Posted: April 28th, 2010, 11:14am EDT by sheila

  Tags:  Big Island  

  On a recent visit to the Big Island of Hawaii, I returned to see Rainbow Falls near Hilo. Well, I almost couldn’t believe what I was seeing. There was barely a trickle of water cascading down the waterfall. I’ll show you what I mean. Here’s a photo of Rainbow Falls from our visit in January, 2010.

  

  Now, here’s a photo of the same waterfall in March, 2008.

  

  What a difference a rain makes. Hilo had been experiencing below normal rain levels just before our visit in January 2010. So, let this be a reminder that a little rain on your Hawaii vacation is not necessarily a bad thing.

  
  

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• 

  Hawaii Vacation Deals & News: April 15, 2010

  Posted: April 15th, 2010, 10:13am EDT by sheila

  Tags:  Big Island Deals  

  * Hawaii’s State Parks have a new online camping and lodging reservation system that eliminates the need to physically visit the State Park offices or call to ask for camp site and cabin availability. You can access the new permit system from this page.

  * Prince Resorts on the Big Island and Oahu have a Spring into Summer promotion offers 50% savings plus $50 daily resort credit.

  * My friend Melanie and her husband just took a long weekend trip to Maui from their home in Los Angeles. (Color me jealous that West Coast folks can take weekend trips to Hawaii.) She’s been blogging all about her trip and you can read her posts here.

  * USA Today has a useful article of the 10 most common travel booking mistakes.

  * Just a reminder that starting today, you can book the $40 Ala Moana Hotel rooms.

  * Don’t forget to take advantage of National Park Week whether you’re in Hawaii or on the US Mainland. From April 17 though 25, park entrance fees will be waived.

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• 

  Hawaii Vacation Deals & News: April 7, 2010

  Posted: April 7th, 2010, 11:52am EDT by sheila

  Tags:  Big Island Deals  

  Our news roundup is BIG today. Lots o’stuff to share.

  

  NEWS

  * One of the biggest Hawaiian culture festivals starts tomorrow. It’s the Merrie Monarch Festival and you can watch the dancing competitions live and in high definition online at KFVE. See the schedule of events here — bearing in mind it’s all in Hawaii Time.

  

  Lava Flow Near Kalapana

  * The popular and free Kalapana Lava Viewing Area on the Big Island is now open three hours earlier, from 2 p.m. to 10 p.m. daily. Last car allowed in at 8 p.m. Currently, lava is not reaching the ocean, but a new trail allows visitors to hike out to view the mesmerizing glow and movement – conditions permitting – of the slow-moving surface flow above the pali (cliffs). Visitors should wear sturdy, closed-toe athletic shoes or hiking boots, bring plenty of drinking water, and carry a flashlight if planning to stay after dark. Call the Kalapana Lava Viewing Hotline (808) 961-8093 for current conditions. Also, see my article, How to Find Out What’s Going On with the Lava on Hawaii’s Big Island.

  * You can enter to win a 4-night stay at The Whaler on Kaanapali on Maui’s Kaanapali Beach.

  * The latest and greatest Carnival of Aloha has been published.

  * Getting to the island of Lanai is about to get easier. go! Mokulele Air will begin offering two, daily flights from Honolulu to Lanai on May 20. (Source)

  * Okay, this news bit isn’t a bargain, but WOWZA, what a unique experience! At Four Seasons Resort Hualālai on the Big Island, the Starlight Spa Voyage is a unique four-hour couples’ experience that begins with lomilomi massages at sunset by King’s Pond, a swimming pool/aquarium, to the accompaniment of Hawaiian music. The two are then set adrift on a raft (no worries; a rope tethers them to the dock.) Surrounded by candles, they float on the pond under the stars. If they see movement in the water, it’s likely to be curious manta rays. The cost for this experience is $750 per person.

  DEALS

  

  Four Seasons Lanai at Manele Bay

  * One of may absolute favorite places to stay in Hawaii is on sale. The Four Seasons Lanai at Manele Bay is on special offer at $295 per night. The offer is available through December 18, 2010 – including peak summer dates. You cannot find a better luxury rate in Hawaii. See this link for more details.

  * How does a $55 per night, Waikiki Beach ocean view room strike you? Continental Surf Hotel is offering this deal. Read more about it here.

  * Take advantage of the advance purchase Bed & Breakfast package at Hilton Waikoloa Village. Rates start at $219 plus tax/per night and include accommodations and daily breakfast for two. Call (808) 886-1234, (800) HILTONS, or visit www.HiltonWaikoloaVillage.com For this deal, request package code CX09AP. This deal is valid through Dec. 20, 2010, subject to availability, terms and conditions. Rate requires minimum 45-day advance purchase & full non-refundable pre-payment charged at time of reservation. No changes or cancellations.

  * Holualoa Inn on the Big Island has a Spring Fever Special. Book either the Ginger or Orchid queen rooms through June 11 and enjoy 25% off the normal $290 room rate — a savings of $72 per night. Includes lei greeting, rose petal strewn bed, full breakfast each morning and afternoon snacks. Two-night minimum required. Book online at www.holualoainn.com or call (808) 324-1121. Use booking code QUEEN.
  

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Hawaii Travel Guide

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  High Definition Hula in Hawaii

  Posted: April 6th, 2010, 3:10pm EDT by Bruce Fisher

  Tags:  Big Island  

   

   

      Forget Hollywood movies or vacation luaus, you haven’t seen hula until you’ve seen this week’s competitive performances in Hawaii - and now you can, in HD!  The annual Merrie Monarch Festival is underway and televised coverage begins Thursday, this year in high definition.  For those of you outside Hawaii, the HD coverage is also streamed online.  Organizers say the festival is the most-watched, longest-running local TV program in Hawaii, broadcast since 1981.

        The festival has been called the Olympics of hula, which suits the combined individual performances and team standings.  It also hints at the rigorous preparation the dancers undergo.  They train and practice year-round for this competition.  I was awed by the athleticism of the dances, especially the men’s competition.  I was also mesmerized by the undulating waves of hula when performed by groups – that aspect of the art is completely missing from most stage performances.

        This year, the festival is missing two of its long-time organizers.  Both George Na‘ope and Dottie Thompson died recently, as did well-known performer Rae Fonseca.  There are sure to be tributes to their memory and contributions to the spirit of hula.  The goal of the Merrie Monarch Festival is to perpetuate and promote the traditional culture of the Hawaiian people.  Proceeds are used to support educational outreach through workshops, seminars and symposia.

        The festival includes more than the hula competition.  If you take a Hawaii vacation and attend in person, you can take in crafts fairs, an art show, music concerts, and a parade.  It is a week-long celebration of all things hula on the Big Island of Hawaii, always held the week after Easter.  Tickets go on sale for each year’s competition in December.  This year, they were sold out by February.  If you’d like to attend the event, detailed procedures for obtaining a ticket are available on the festival’s website.  The 2011 dates are April 24-30.  Tune in to the televised event this week and start making plans to experience this unique celebration of hula in person.

  HD broadcast link: 
  [www.k5thehometeam.com]
   

  Posted by Cindy Scheopner  Follow me on Twitter @Scheopner

   

  

• 

  Kīlauea Eruption Status

  Posted: March 29th, 2010, 10:23pm EDT by Bruce Fisher

  Tags:  Big Island  

  

  Following a three-day pause in surface flow activity due to diminished lava supply during summit deflation, breakouts resumed on March 12 as the summit reinflated and lava supply increased. These breakouts continue at the time of writing (March 18) and are situated well above the pali, about 1.6 km (1 mile) above Royal Gardens subdivision, with no current activity on the coastal plain or in the National Park.

  At Kīlauea’s summit, a spattering and roiling lava surface deep within the collapse pit inset within the floor of Halema`uma`u Crater was occasionally visible via Webcam during the past week. The lava surface rose significantly in response to the inflation phase of last week’s deflation-inflation (DI) event, but is still deep within the vent cavity. Volcanic gas emissions remain elevated, resulting in high concentrations of sulfur dioxide downwind.

  One earthquake beneath Hawai`i Island was reported felt during the past week. A magnitude-2.5 earthquake occurred at 1:41 p.m. on Tuesday, March 16, 2010, H.s.t., and was located 5 km (3 miles) northeast of Makawao, Maui, at a depth of 21 km (19 miles).

   

  Volcano Watch is a weekly article and activity update written by scientists at the U.S. Geological Survey’s Hawaiian Volcano Observatory

  

Hawaii Vacation Advice

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  Hawaii Vacation Deals & News: March 24, 2010

  Posted: March 24th, 2010, 12:11pm EDT by sheila

  Tags:  Big Island Deals  

  Let’s see what sort of Hawaii vacation deals and news are making a splash today.

  

  Waves Crash Against the Lava Rocks of the Waikoloa Shore

  * Alaska Airlines has a sale on nonstop flights to Maui (OGG) and Kona (KOA) from San Jose, Oakland, and Sacramento. One-way fares start from $179. The fine print says you must book by March 25 for travel from April 25 and June 10, 2010.

  * Waikoloa Beach Marriott Resort on the Big Island is on sale at $169 per night. That rate is for an ocean view room and represents 50% off! For this rate, you must be booked by April 2 for stays through June 15, 2010. See the deal details here. This hotel is located in Waikoloa Beach Resort, which is an area that I think it a great place to stay on Hawaii’s Big Island.

  * Outrigger’s Kiahuna Plantation in Kauai has announced that they’re offering a free vow renewal ceremony for their guests every other Thursday through June 30, 2010. Andy and I took part in the free vow renewal ceremony at Outrigger’s Reef on the Beach in Waikiki last year. It was a lovely service.

  * Waikiki’s Aqua Palms has a special offer of $69 per night. Their rates normally start at $90 per night. For this deal, you must book before April 30 for stays between March 27 and May 31, 2010.

  * If you are a fan of LOST, you might be interested in Daniel Dae Kim’s (Jin’s) list of favorite Honolulu restaurants. Incidentally, Daniel Dae Kim will play the role of Detective Chin Ho Kelly in the remake of the TV series Hawaii Five-O that’s currently in the pilot stage.

  * Have you joined the super cool Go Visit Hawaii facebook community? Be one of the “cool kidz” and please join us. Though the community just launched about two weeks ago, it’s been a great place to ask Hawaii vacation questions and get advice from the community.

  
  

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• 

  Celebrating Romance In Hawaii

  Posted: March 23rd, 2010, 12:51pm EDT by sheila

  Tags:  Big Island See Do  

  If you’ve chosen to go to Hawaii to for your wedding, honeymoon or to celebrate an anniversary, you’ve made an excellent choice. Hawaii may be one of the most romantic places on earth. A couple of years ago I wrote this list of the top 5 most romantic things to do in Hawaii. I thought it was time to update the list with a few more ideas and examples.

  1. Take in a beautiful sunset.
  There’s really nothing much more romantic than saying aloha to the sun as it sinks into the ocean. Make watching sunset even more memorable with a sunset cruise/sail or dinner. If you are planning a dinner, see my tips for planning the perfect sunset dinner in Hawaii. Two of my favorite Hawaii restaurants for sunset dining are The Beach House on Kauai and The Plantation Restaurant on Maui.

  Although, it’s a treat to dine at a nice restaurant with a lovely sunset view, you really can’t top watching sunset with sand in your toes. Consider a sunset picnic on the beach. Some hotels can prepare a picnic basket for you. Alternatively, it’s easy to pick up picnic supplies at one of the local grocery stores. Make sure you don’t just pack up and leave as soon as the sun is down. Watch for the amazing colors of the sky after sunset for an even more memorable sunset.

  If you are on Maui, consider going to Haleakala to watch sunrise. There’s something very special and romantic about watching sunrise on Haleakala when you are snuggling up to your sweetheart under a blanket.

  2. Take a helicopter ride to discover the islands from the air.
  If you ever watch those "searching for love" reality shows like The Bachelor, you’ll notice at some point along the show, a couple will go on a helicopter tour. There’s a buzz that you get from seeing the beautiful islands from a different perspective. When you get to share a helicopter tour with your sweetie, it makes it even more special. Be sure to read and follow these Hawaii helicopter tour tips.

  3. Arrange for an ocean side couples massage.
  Imagine the bliss of side by side massages on a beach while you listen to the waves crash on the shore. Andy and I recently enjoyed a couples massage at one of the ocean side hales at the Four Seasons Lanai at Manele Bay. We arranged the massage at sunset. The experience was wonderfully romantic as we were lulled into relaxation with the sound of the waves, the feel of the breeze, and the flickering glow from the candlelight as the sunset.

  4. Go horseback riding.
  There are some fantastic places to go horseback riding in Hawaii – in rainforests, rolling hills, valleys, and beaches. Two areas in Hawaii that I think are particularly romantic for horseback riding are the North Shore of Kauai with Princeville Ranch and on Oahu along the shore at Turtle Bay Resort.

  5. Go stargazing.
  On a moonless night, Hawaii’s skies sparkle with an incredible array of stars. Hawaii is one of the top spots in the world for astronomy. To stargaze with your sweetie, you can either find a secluded spot with limited surrounding light or take a guided tour. Also, check out my Hawaii stargazing Q&A with an astronomy expert.

  6. Tour a garden.
  Flowers are romantic, right? Well, how about touring a garden full of romance in bloom? On the Big Island, I particularly love Hawaii Botanical Tropical Garden. You’ll find lush gardens on all the major islands.

  7. Chase waterfalls. 
  I can’t put my finger on why waterfalls are romantic. Can you? Maybe it’s the beauty of waterfalls that inspires romance. Here’s my list of 8 great Hawaii waterfalls.

  8. Go hiking.
  There’s something oddly romantic about navigating a hiking trail to discover beautiful views. Maybe it’s symbolic of life’s journey shared as a couple. I better stop my rambling before I become too philosophical. To help you find some great trails, be sure and check out my list of Hawaii hiking resources.

  © Go Visit Hawaii – Republication of this entire post is prohibited without prior permission. Using extracts of less than 100 words are permitted with full attribution and link back to GoVisitHawaii.com.

  
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  New Rules for the Big Island’s Kealakekua Bay State Park

  Posted: March 18th, 2010, 11:09am EDT by sheila

  Tags:  Big Island See Do  

  

  In order to protect one of Hawaii’s most historically and culturally significant shorelines and coral reef ecosystems, Hawaii’s Department. of Land and Natural Resources now requires a permit to land kayaks, canoes and other vessels near the Captain Cook Monument, located within the bay park.

  What does this new permit process mean for visitors? If you want to paddle over to explore the monument and land your vessel on shore, you’ll have to arrange for a permit well in advance Download Permit or opt for a guided kayak excursion with the two permitted outfitters, Hawaii Pack and Paddle or Adventures in Paradise. Alternatively, you can just stay afloat on your kayak or canoe. Those without permits can still snorkel and kayak within Kealakekua Bay on their own. They just aren’t permitted to land their vessels on the shoreline.

  Another option is to book a catamaran snorkel tour with Fair Wind Cruises, which ties up to an eco-friendly permanent mooring in the bay in order to share the history and natural beauty of Kealakekua with their passengers. I have taken the Fair Wind II morning cruise to Kealakekua Bay and very much enjoyed the experience. 

  Rafting tours to Kealakekua Bay are also offered. Some of your options are Sea Hawaii Rafting, Captain Zodiac, and Sea Quest.

  Kealakekua is where the first extensive contact between Hawaiians and Westerners occurred, with the arrival of Captain James Cook in 1779, and it’s also one of the most treasured marine life conservation districts in Hawaii, where sea turtles, spinner dolphins, coral and colorful Hawaiian fish can be observed. For more information, visit Kealakekua Bay State Historical Park and see my post, Planning to Explore Kealakekua Bay.

  
  

  © Go Visit Hawaii – Republication of this entire post is prohibited without prior permission. Using extracts of less than 100 words are permitted with full attribution and link back to GoVisitHawaii.com.

  
• 

  Hawaii Vacation Deals & News: March 17, 2010

  Posted: March 17th, 2010, 11:45am EDT by sheila

  Tags:  Big Island Deals  

  Aloha and Happy St. Patrick’s Day! To celebrate the day, we should share something green, right? Well, is this view from Kauai’s Hanalei Valley Lookout is about as green as you can get.

  

  Okie dokie, let’s look at today’s deals and news that includes a Maui vacation sweepstakes, hotel deals, and more.

  * If you’d like to fly to Hawaii in style, Hawaiian Airlines is offering some fairly reasonable first class fares. For example, you can fly Portland to Maui round-trip from $910 plus taxes and fees.First class fares for the routes of San Jose to Honolulu and Oakland to Honolulu are both on sale for $1018 round-trip plus taxes and fees. For this first class sale, you’ll need to book before March 31, 2010 and travel between April 13 and June 10, 2010.

  * The Iolani Palace in Honolulu posted a record year in 2009 with over 80,000 visitors. With the increase in demand, the palace has added a sixth day to their schedule. They’ll now be open Monday through Saturday from 9am to 5pm.

  * Kauai Beach Resort has a number of good packages to help you save on your Kauai vacation. I’m kind of drawn to their “Snooze–N-Crooze” package that starts at $119 per night and includes a compact rental car. Bargain, eh?

  * The closest thing you’ll find to an all-inclusive resort in Hawaii is at the Kona Village Resort on the Big Island. They’re offering a special deal of $398 on bungalows that normally go for $630 per night. Considering it includes your meals, some activities, and two luaus per week, it’s a pretty good deal. You must book it before March 26, 2010. See this link for more information.

  * Pleasant Holidays has a special offer if you can fly from Los Angeles or San Francisco. Their deal is kids fly free this summer. See more about this offer here.

  *  Were you in awe of Apolo Ohno’s Olympic skating skills? How would you like to win a luxury trip for two to Maui with Apolo Ohno himself? Alaska Airlines is offering this very cool Maui vacation sweepstakes.

  

Hawaii Travel Guide

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  Sheraton Keauhou plans “revitalization”

  Posted: March 17th, 2010, 7:00am EDT by Bruce Fisher

  Tags:  Big Island  

  The Sheraton Keauhou Bay Resort & Spa on the Kona coast of Hawaii’s Big Island recently announced plans to begin in-room enhancements at the 521-room, 22 acre oceanfront resort.

  During the first phase, nearly two-thirds of the guest rooms will receive new carpeting, 37-inch flat screen panel televisions, and fresh wall paint including an accent wall color. It is anticipated that the first phase will be complete by the end of summer. The last third of the rooms will receive the same upgrades shortly thereafter.

  Sheraton Keauhou Bay Resort & Spa’s renovation is part of a $6 billion brand-wide global revitalization effort, which includes upgrading 100 Sheraton hotels in the U.S., renovating 70,000 guestrooms, and re-designing 300 Lobbies, explained Sheraton Keauhou Bay General Manager Tetsuji Yamazaki. Weve been working on these plans for sometime and were excited to be moving forward to provide an excellent experience for visitors.

  A key component of Sheraton Keauhou Bays renovation is a redesign in the area fronting Keauhou Bay Coffee Company Café that will feature the brands signature hotel offering: Link@Sheraton experienced with Microsoft®, a unique lounge that enables guests to stay connected using Windows-based computers that feature Microsoft Office, Bing, Microsofts new decision engine, Bing Maps, Internet access and Microsoft LifeCam webcams for emailing video postcards. The Link@Sheraton enables travelers to stay connected with instant access to information and technology for work, leisure and social networking. Adding to the social aspect of the new design will be a communal table at the center that allows several guests to work independently of one another within the same space, while game tables and oversized chairs encourage playful interaction or rest and relaxation.

  Posted by Bruce Fisher follow on twitter @alohabruce

  

• 

  Hawaii Hotel Deals for the week of March 15, 2010

  Posted: March 15th, 2010, 3:18pm EDT by Bruce Fisher

  Tags:  Big Island  

  

  Oahu
  The Maile Sky Court is extending their introductory Special City View  for just $76 per night with FREE upgrade based on availability! Valid now through-6/30/10. The Miramar at Waikiki is offering Superior rooms from $79 per night from now through 05/23/10. The  Waikiki Resort has a new Surf Special with reduced rates in their Surf category starting at 89.00 per night Valid until 6/30/10. 

  Maui
  The Castle Kamaole Sands is running their Springtacular Sale and has slashed their prices which are starting at 108 per night  Valid now through 6/30/10.  The Honua Kai Resort & Spa has a manager’s special right now with reduced Rates in Studio and 1 & 2 Bedroom units starting at 199.00d for NEW bookings thru 4/15/10 for travel 2/1-6/10/10. The Plantation Inn – Special Promotion Reduce rate in the Lanai Room category! Valid now thru 3/31/10. Blackout dates apply.  New bookings only. Book as a package and save even more!

   

  Kauai
  The Castle Kaha Lani Resort has a springtacular Sale running now  and is offering reduced rates in all categories staring at 99.00 per night Valid 4/1-6/30/10.  The Grand Hyatt Kaua’I Resort & Spa is still offering their Stay More, Play More Aloha Rate and $50 Daily Resort Credit Valid 1/4-3/17/10 for Travel 1/4-1/15/10 & 1/27-4/30/10

  Big Island
  Waikoloa Beach Marriott has a Paradise Plus with Breakfast package available and also new lower rates staring at 1279 per night Valid Now through 6/25/10. Book as a package and save even more! The beautiful Mauna Lani Bay Hotel has book early bonus offer with discounted rates when booked at least 14 days or longer prior to arrival call us at 1-800-843–8771 for pricing.
  Valid now through -12/23/10. New bookings only. The Keahou Beach Resort has a 3rd Night Free promotion valid now thru 3/31/10.

  There are lots of Hawaii hotel deals, just give us a call at 1-800-843-8771 and any agent can help you.

  

Hawaii Vacation Advice

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  Where to Find Farmers Markets in Hawaii

  Posted: March 15th, 2010, 11:23am EDT by sheila

  Tags:  Big Island See Do  

  

  No matter where you travel, shopping at a local farmers market is one of the quickest ways to get to know more about a culture. Not only will you learn more about the area you’re visiting, you’ll also have the opportunity to support the local economy by purchasing some tasty fruits, vegetables, and baked goods. You’ll also find floral bouquets and crafts.

  So, when you visit Hawaii, I encourage you to visit a farmers market. To help you find a farmers market on Hawaii, I recommend that you visit this Web page that’s operated by the Hawaii Department of Agriculture. From there, you can navigate to the lists of farmers markets on each island.

  I’ll add a few notes that the Web page doesn’t highlight or mention:

  • On Oahu, the KCC farmers’ market is a very popular and well stocked farmers market that’s also fairly convenient to Waikiki.
  • Lanai has a farmers’ market every Saturday morning in Lanai City. The specific location varies, but it’s usually somewhere in or around Dole Park.
  • In Honolulu’s Chinatown, there’s a open market that operates most days.
  • Though not a farmers’ market, you’ll definitely hand made crafts and snacks at the popular Aloha Stadium Swap Meet.
  • If you get a chance to go to the Hawaiian Homestead Farmers’ Market that’s held on Saturday mornings in Waimea on the Big Island, look for fruitsicles. See my post on discovering coconut fruitsicles.

  Have you visited a farmers’ market in Hawaii? Where did you go? What did you buy?

  © Go Visit Hawaii – Republication of this entire post is prohibited without prior permission. Using extracts of less than 100 words are permitted with full attribution and link back to GoVisitHawaii.com.

  
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  8 Great Hawaii Waterfalls Worth Gushing Over

  Posted: March 10th, 2010, 12:21pm EST by sheila

  Tags:  Big Island See Do  

  Hawaii is blessed with an abundance of beautiful, rainforest-fed waterfalls that are worth the time and effort to see on your Hawaii Vacation. I wanted to share this list of Hawaii’s top waterfalls that I hope you have the opportunity to see when you visit the islands.

  I’ll organize the waterfalls by island. We’ll start in the South on the Big Island and work our way North to Kauai.

  Akaka Falls on Hawaii’s Big Island

  

  This 442-foot waterfall is well worth the short walk it takes on the paved path. I never miss an opportunity to see it when I’m on the Big Island. For directions, advice and a video of Akaka Falls, see my article Tips for Visiting Akaka Falls. While you’re there, also check out Kahuna Falls (photo) that’s on the same loop trail as Akaka Falls.

  Rainbow Falls on Hawaii’s Big Island

  

  At Rainbow Falls, water tumbles down over an arch-shaped rock above a cave. This waterfall is located in the town of Hilo on the Big Island’s east side. This waterfall is easily accessed for everyone as there are no stairs or long walk to see this attraction. For directions, advice, and a video of Rainbow Falls, see my article The Big Island’s Rainbow Falls in Hilo.

  Oheo Gulch on Maui

  

  The Oheo Gulch is a series of cascading waterfalls and pools. You might hear Oheo Gulch called the seven sacred pools, but that’s not it’s real name and there’s actually nothing sacred about it. You’ll find the Oheo Gulch just beyond Hana off the famous road to Hana in the Kipahulu area of Haleakala National Park. Just before the park entrance, you’ll drive over one of the many one-lane bridges, but this one hovers over the Oheo Gulch. You can snap a photo from the bridge, but I do recommend that you visit the Kipahulu area of Haleakala National Park, if you have the time. See my article, Visiting the Kipahulu Area of Haleakala National Park.

  Other Road to Hana Waterfalls on Maui

  

  I’d be remiss if I didn’t mention that you’ll see around a dozen or more waterfalls along the road to Hana. This area might offer the most concentrated number of waterfalls that you’ll find in all of Hawaii, and possibly, the world. Some of the waterfalls you’ll see just off the road, others take a short hike to view. If you are really into waterfalls, you might want to plan to spend a night in Hana so that you’ll have more time to find the many waterfalls off the road to Hana.

  Manoa Falls on Oahu

  

  To see the 100-foot Manoa Falls, you must hike 0.8 miles along a path through a lush green jungle. Visiting Manoa Falls can be as much about the journey as it is to see the waterfall itself. You’ll know for sure that you’re not in Waikiki when you visit the Manoa Valley and walk this trail. For advice and directions to Manoa Falls, see my article, Manoa Falls Trail, an Oahu Green Gem.

  Wailua Falls on Kauai

  

  Wailua Falls are probably the most iconic waterfalls in Hawaii. I think the photo speaks for itself, doesn’t it? These twin falls are easy to find and see when you visit Kauai’s east side. For directions, see my post, Kauai’s Wailua Falls. This waterfall is easily accessible for everyone.

  Opeakaa Falls on Kauai

  

  I like to describe Opeakaa Waterfalls as dainty because the water fans horizontally as it cascades down the lava rock wall. The brief diversion up Kuamoo Road (Highway 580) on Kauai’s east side is well worth the trip to see this waterfall along with the nearby views of Wailua River Valley. The views of Opeakaa Waterfalls is easy to access for everyone.

  Waialeale Crater Waterfalls on Kauai

  

  If you’d like to see lots of pencil thin waterfalls concentrated in one area, you’ll love taking a Kauai helicopter tour that takes you into Waialeale Crater, one of the wettest places on earth. It’s definitely a sight that will capture your attention.

  —-

  As I close this article, I’d like to add a disclaimer. Hawaii’s waterfalls are fed by rain, so if you happen to visit Hawaii after a dry spell, you may not get to see the waterfalls when they’re fully turned on, so to speak. See my post, Hawaii in Contrasts Rain and Waterfalls, to see how much difference the amount of rain makes to Hawaii’s waterfalls.

  With this list of great Hawaii waterfalls, I’m only listing a sampling of the many beautiful waterfalls in the Aloha State. What other waterfalls would you add to this list? Which Hawaii waterfalls are your favorites?

  © Go Visit Hawaii – Republication of this entire post is prohibited without prior permission. Using extracts of less than 100 words are permitted with full attribution and link back to GoVisitHawaii.com.

  
• 

  Halemaumau: Where the Earth Smokes & Glows

  Posted: March 9th, 2010, 11:57am EST by sheila

  Tags:  Big Island See Do  

  

  How do you describe watching a crater billow with smoke and glow from a lava lake that’s hundreds of feet below the surface? Somehow the words amazing and incredible just don’t do enough to adequately describe this sight.

  

  As you are making your vacation plans for the Big Island of Hawaii, I hope you’ll find time to visit Hawaii Volcanoes National Park where you’ll discover this active crater called Halemaumau at the summit of Kilauea Volcano. If possible, aim to see it when the sun is down or at dawn or dusk so that you’ll be able to see the red glow from the lava lake. A great vantage point to view Halemaumau is from the Jaggar Museum within the national park off of Crater Rim Drive.

  So, what’s creating the constant cloud of smoke and the red glow from Halemaumau crater? The crater has an opening in the floor that’s about 400 feet in diameter. This opening is essentially a vent that allows the volcanic pressure and gases to escape. The opening was created by an explosion in March 2008 and since then a consistent plume of smoke and ash have been flowing from the crater floor. The smoke is actually a mixture of volcanic gasses, ash, and steam.

  The blood-orange glow that you’ll likely see at dusk, dark, and dawn is the glow of a lava lake that’s some 400 or 500 feet below the crater floor. The intensity of the glow varies almost minute by minute. Sometimes, it’s strong enough for the webcam at the Jaggar Museum to pick up the glow. I noticed that what you see in person is much stronger/better than what you see on the webcam.

  It’s very fitting that Halemaumau has been active as this crater is called the home of Pele, the Hawaiian goddess of fire. For over 100 years Halemaumau has boiled with lava both above and below the surface.

  

  What to know when you go:

  • Since Halemaumau is located within Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, you must pay a $10 fee for park entry. This fee allows you entry in to the park for 7 days. See my tips for visiting Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. There is plenty to see and do inside the park besides Halemaumau.
  • Volcanic fumes can be hazardous. I have noticed that them make me have a temporary dry cough. Park officials are constantly monitoring air quality based on the direction of the winds. Heed all warnings. Visitors with heart or breathing problems and infants, young children, and pregnant women are especially at risk and should avoid being in areas where fumes persist.
  • Ideal times to see Halemaumau’s eruptive activity is around dusk and dawn where you have an opportunity to see both the red glow from the lava lake as well as the plume.
  • See a collection of our photos from visiting Halemaumau.

  Have you seen Halemaumau’s recent activity? How would you describe it.

  

Hawaii Vacation

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  Best Hawaii Vacation Rentals Spring 2010

  Posted: March 9th, 2010, 3:37am EST by Pua

  Tags:  kohalacoast Big Island vacation rentals  

  A Komo Mai and Welcome back to our Hawaii Blog, Best Hawaii Vacation Blog's editors, Pua and Keoki, are happy to see that our post 'Is it a good time to travel to Hawaii NOW?' attracted a number of Hawaii hosts to share their comments about the many advantages of travel to Hawaii this spring. Today's post will provide vacation rental recommendations for 'Best Hawaii vacation rentals Spring 2010'. We've put together a list of fully equipped, yet affordable Hawaii vacation cottages, condos and suites near best beaches on the sunny Kona Kohala Coast of the Big Island.
  
  Choose from our Best Hawaii Vacation rentals for your Hawaii spring vacation!
  
  Sunny Side Waimea Cottage from $95/nt.
  Save lots of money on your nightly rate for going out to dinner or do a whale watch tour when you stay at this fully equipped (full kitchen), private location with short 10-minute drive to Mauna Kea beach, which is currently still available from April 8 - May at $95/nt. with 7-night booking. Sunny Side Waimea Kohala Coast Vacation Rental Cottage Near Best Beaches
  
  
  Mauna Kea Views 1Bd/1Ba vacation Apartment from $110/nt.
  This Waimea vacation rental w/kitchen is a private, peaceful vacation apartment overlooking an expansive valley and captivating, well-known mountain of Mauna Kea on the Big Island Waimea Apartment with Mauna Kea Views It's a short 5-minute drive to Waimea for shopping. Kohala Coast Beaches and Big Island adventures like Waipio Valley or Mauna Kea Summit are in easy to reach. Inquire with your travel dates for April or May 2010!
  
  
  Waikoloa Golf Condo with full kitchen enjoys expansive ocean and mountain views is located directly on the beautiful Waikoloa Village Golf Course on the Big Island. It has expansive ocean and beautiful sunset views. Beautiful Anaeho'omalu Beach is a short 10-min. drive away. The Golf Condo offers a great Spring Special at $ 100/nt. for April + May.
  
  
  Puako Beach Apartment across from ocean from $115/nt.
  It's just the two of you and you love to stay close to the beach, this Puako Apartment is right across from Beach 1Bd/1Ba Puako Vacation Apartment Best Deal Puako Beach $115/nt.! It is currently still available for 4/13 - 4/19 + 4/27 - May. A spacious lanai allows for enjoying your meals outdoors in a tropical setting. Puako is one of the most desired areas on the Kohala Coast. You can access the ocean right there in Puako or pack your beach stuff into the car and take a short 5-minute drive to Puako Beach 69 or Wailea Bay.
  
  South Kona Vacation Suites from $115/nt. + Cottage from $150/nt.
  
  Kona Vacation Rentals Suites offer a unique location overlooking historical Kealakekua Bay. This property has breathtaking Pacific Ocean views and an expansive panoramic South Kona coastline view. These two private Kona vacation suites are fully equipped, spacious accommodations with private entrances. The individual cottage with its private lanai is blessed with lots of amenities, views and privacy. It's perfect as a honeymoon cottage in Hawaii. This property lies on a lush, five-acre coffee farm complete with coffee, avocado, papaya and banana trees. Inquiry for your Spring vacation.
  
  
  Kona Vacation Condo 2Bd/2Ba from $120/nt.
  White Sands Estates Triplex on a bluff above Alii Drive with an amazing view of the ocean. Located between Kona's most popular beach, Magic Sands and Kahaluu. This two-bedroom, two-bath condo features sun decks, pool and an incredible panoramic ocean front view from the lanai, splash pool and living areas. Kona Ocean View condo with Pool + Short walk to beach has Spring vacancies from 4/12 - May. Best Kona condo rate for location + amenities!
  
  
  Kohala Coast vacation rental 1Bd/1Ba Ocean Views from $150/nt.
  
  This Kohala Coast vacation rental is situated 400' above the Kohala Coast on the Big Island of Hawaii, offering expansive,unobstructed views of the ocean, coastline, and nearby Hualalai Volcano. Awesome sunsets and balmy ocean breezes are the norm here. Best rate for Kohala Coast Estates premier location and top amenities. Rare vacancy 4/22 - 4/30 + May!
  
  

  Kohala Estates Private Vacation Home from $175/nt. (dbl.)
  

  2 Bd/2 Ba Kohala Coast vacation home at Kohala Estate with 180° ocean view offers a a 30% discount for Spring 2010 April + May at $175/nt. (dbl.). Experience Hawaii at its best. Enjoy the Aloha at this tropically decorated two bedroom, two bathroom Kohala Coast vacation home, minutes from best white sands beaches like Spencer, Mauna Kea and Hapuna Beach, world-class golf and five star resorts.
  
  
  We hope you found the Hawaii vacation rental matching your budget and expectations for your 2010 Hawaii Spring vacation. Aloha, Pua Hawaii Vacations
  
  Tags: Hawaii Spring Specials 2010, Best of Hawaii, Affordable Hawaii, Best Hawaii Vacation Rentals http://kohalacoastweb.blogspot.com/feeds/posts/default?alt=rss

Hawaii Travel Guide

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  Hawaii Hotel Deals for the week of March 6, 2010

  Posted: March 8th, 2010, 3:05pm EST by Bruce Fisher

  Tags:  Big Island  

  

  Oahu
  The Aston Waikiki Banyan is having a 10 Day Value sale with new low rates available in 1 Bedroom Superior City View at 104.00 per night including tax! Good thru 3/12/10 for travel 4/1-6/30/10 The Castle Ocean Resort Hotel Waikiki is now offering reduced rates in Standard, City View & City View Studio categories starting at 62.00 a night Valid 1/4-12/8/10. The posh Hotel Renew now has a NEW Run of House rate just $175 per night! Valid now thru 3/31/10.
   
  Maui
  The Ho’olei condo at Grand Wailea is now offering 7th Night Free, this promotion is valid in all the categories for only these dates: 4/17-6/12/10, 8/23-11/19/10 & 11/29-12/17/10. The Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea is offering their popular Romance For All Seasons package which includes; Convertible, Romantic Dinner, Robes, Amenity, Breakfast and MORE! Valid 3/5-12/16/10.  Minimum 5-night stay if you book this as a package we can save you even more! The Kahana Reef condo has reduced their rates in all categories prices now starting at 114.00 per night including tax. Valid 1/4-12/19/10

  Kauai
  Castle Makahuena at Poipu is offering a Springtacular Sale Valid 4/1-6/30/10 prices now starting at 139.00 per night for this Oceanfront resort on Kauai. The Outrigger Lae Nani has reduced their rates for this codo centrally located in Kapaa on Kauai you can now get a fully equipped condo starting at 149.00 per night for a 1 BR good 3/31/10 - 6/1/10

  Big Island
  You can take advantage of a 1st quarter value promotion at Kona by the Sea on the Big Island right now. They have reduced prices in all categories starting at  159.00 per night. Valid for NEW bookings thru 3/31/10 for travel 2/17-6/30/10. The exclusive Kona Village Resort is offering a Fare Deal promotion,  Receive an $800 Airfare Credit & space available upgrade! Valid 4/2-07/17/10. 5-night minimum stay. Excludes Vintage Village category.

  Posted by Bruce Fisher on twitter at @alohabruce

  

Hawaii Vacation Advice

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  Hawaii Vacation Deals & News: March 8, 2010

  Posted: March 8th, 2010, 11:06am EST by sheila

  Tags:  Big Island Deals  

  

  A View from Oahu's Pali Lookout

  * Check out this months blog carnival of Aloha which has a preservation theme.

  * Hawaii’s Prince Resorts have some good family deals with a 2 for 1 promotion and a kids eat free promotion. See these promotion details here.

  * I was disappointed to hear that the Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources have fallen on such hard times that they have begun charging nonresidents a $3 fee to park at the Nu’uanu Pali Lookout. In my opinion, that’s a bit of a high fee considering that most folks only spend about 10 – 30 minutes here, there are no restroom facilities and the parking lot is notorious for car break ins. If you are a Hawaii resident, you are exempt from the fee. The Honolulu Advertiser has an article on this new fee with over 200 very lively comments. What do you think of the new $3 parking fee?

  © Go Visit Hawaii – Republication of this entire post is prohibited without prior permission. Using extracts of less than 100 words are permitted with full attribution and link back to GoVisitHawaii.com.

  

Hawaii Travel Guide

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  Hawaii Events and Festivals for April

  Posted: March 4th, 2010, 1:28pm EST by Bruce Fisher

  Tags:  Big Island  

  

  Big Island

  April 4-10: Merrie Monarch Festival. Watch and learn at one of Hawaii’s most prestigious hula competitions, featuring group and solo contests. Tickets go fast, but the festival also has free events such as live music and a parade through town. Edith Kanakaole Stadium, Hilo. (808-935-9168; www.merriemonarchfestival.org)

  Oahu

  April 16-22: Spring Showcase. The Hawaii International Film Festival (HIFF) is holding its 13th Spring Showcase, a smaller, more intimate festival than the Fall Showcase. Roughly 30 independent and international films will be shown. Tickets go on sale on April 7. Regal Dole Cannery Stadium 18, Honolulu. (808-697-2463; www.hiff.org)

  April 18: Honolulu AIDS Walk. Make a difference in the fight against AIDS in Hawaii with an easy 5K walk. Prizes, food, entertainment and a kids’ zone make this an ideal event for families with children. Registration is free but fundraising is encouraged. Kapiolani Park. (808-521-2437; www.honoluluaidswalk.org)

  April 23-25: Spring Food and New Products Show. Clients looking for a unique shopping experience among hundreds of vendors need not look any further than this highly attended expo. Some attractions include local fare, new products and gadgets and chances to win prizes. Admission is $3 (free for children under 12). Neal S. Blaisdell Exhibition Hall, Honolulu. (808-732-6037; www.pacificexpos.com)

  Kauai

  April 2 and 4: Slack-Key Guitar Concerts. Every Friday and Sunday afternoon, visitors can tune into to the soothing sounds of Hawaii’s slack-key music while learning about its history and legendary players. The proceeds from the shows support outreach programs for families in the area. Hanalei Community Center. (808-826-1469; www.hawaiianslackkeyguitar.com)

  April 11: Kauai All-Girls Rodeo. The ladies in Hawaii are good at far more than just hula dancing and surfing. Watch cowgirls compete in fast-paced rodeo events, from barrel racing to goat tying. CJM Country Stables Arena, Koloa. (808-346-3549; www.kauaiallgirlsrodeo.com)

  Maui

  April 2-4: Celebration of the Arts. Held during Easter weekend, this hands-on arts festival is a unique opportunity for clients. Highlights include seminar discussions, workshops in arts and crafts, hula performances and a closing luau ceremony. The Ritz-Carlton Kapalua. (808-669-6200; www.celebrationofthearts.org)

  April 24: East Maui Taro Festival. Celebrate the staple food of Hawaii at the 18th-annual presentation of this all-day festival with local music, arts, crafts and cultural demonstrations. Whether it’s sampling from more than 20 food booths or learning to pound your own poi, the Taro Festival is a highlight for visitors and locals alike. Hana Ballpark. (808-264-1553; www.tarofestival.org)

  

Hawaii Vacation Advice

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  Visiting Thurston Lava Tube

  Posted: March 1st, 2010, 10:39am EST by sheila

  Tags:  Big Island See Do  

  

  Did you know that on the Big Island of Hawaii. you can  walk underground where lava flowed hundreds of years ago? You can do just that at Thurston Lava Tube inside Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, just off Crater Rim Drive. To say that it’s an amazing sight and experience is an understatement.

  Thurston Lava Tube is one of the most popular natural attractions within Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. From about mid-morning until late afternoon, bus loads of tourists are visiting the lava tube. Sometimes it’s even a challenge to find a parking spot. You can beat the crowds by visiting early in the morning and what a difference it makes.

  

  Andy and I have visited Thurston Lava Tube several times throughout the day. We’ve discovered if you go to Thurston Lava Tube early in the morning, you’ll practically have the entire area to yourself. Aim to get here before about 9:30am. The rainforest area around the lava tube is so peaceful early in the morning.

  The loop trail to and through the lava tube is paved and well lit. Plan on about 20 minutes to walk the trial. The path has a couple of inclines, but nothing too strenuous. Unfortunately, the trail isn’t wheelchair accessible.

  If you are a bit more adventurous and curious about lava tubes, you can explore an optional section of the lava tube. It is not lit, so you will definitely need a flash light.

  Of course the lava tube is the big attraction here, but I hope you also get a chance to notice the wonderful rainforest surroundings. You can’t help but gawk at the giant Hawaiian hapuu ferns. Also take a few moments to watch for a beautiful red bird, the ‘apapane, as it gathers nectar from the Lehua blossom of the Ohia trees.

  Please enjoy this brief slideshow of photos from Thurston Lava Tube.

  If you are planning on going Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, be sure and read my tips for Hawaii Volcanoes National Park.

  
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  Visiting Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden

  Posted: February 11th, 2010, 12:20pm EST by sheila

  Tags:  Big Island See Do  

  Until this recent visit to the Big Island, we hadn’t had the a chance to visit Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden. We had driven past the garden a number of times, but for logistics reasons weren’t able to stop in. Now that we’ve had a chance to tour the gardens, we realize we had really been missing out on such a special place.

  I’ll cut to the chase. I love this garden. Love it! Each time I visit the Big Island from now on, I will make plans to visit Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden. It’s one of the closest places to heaven on earth that I’ve encountered.

  A Garden In a Valley on the Ocean

  What makes Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden special? Where do I start? Let’s begin with a trusted, old real estate phrase, “Location! Location! Location!” Hawaii’s climate is perfect for tropical gardens that you’ll find on every island, but I doubt there’s another garden location that can beat Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden. Their tagline, “a garden in a valley on the ocean”, almost says it all. While you saunter along the garden’s paths you hear the soothing sounds of the Pacific Ocean coupled with the chirping of birds.

  Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden is blessed with natural landscape beauty. First, the garden  is situated along Onomea Bay and from the garden paths, you’ll find beautiful views of the bay. While we were enjoying the view of the bay, we were also treated to some humpback whale watching. Another wonderful natural landscape feature within the gardens is Onomea Waterfalls as well as Boulder Creek Waterfalls.

  

  By now, you are probably starting to get the picture that the location and landscape of Hawaii Tropical Botanical Gardens are gorgeous, right? So, you may be wondering what about the garden bit. Oh yes, these gardens are abundant with all sorts of tropical flowers and trees. We must have said, “Wow, look at that!” over and over again. I’ve never seen such a collection of exotic trees and plants – hundreds of varieties — from orchids to heliconias to bromeliads to gingers to ferns to palms, and much, much more. Even my brother-in-law, who is not botanically-inclined, said that he was very impressed with the gardens and that it was one of his highlights of the trip.

  A Garden Love Story

  On the day I visited, I was in luck. I had the honor of meeting Mrs. Pauline Lutkenhouse, the wife of the founder, Mr. Dan Lutkenhouse. Mrs. Lutkenhouse happened to be at the garden’s visitor center and greeted us with such warm aloha. She shared a bit of the history of the garden and spoke so proudly and lovingly of Mr. Lutkenhouse who passed away in 2007. She said that he lived his dream in creating Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden. Isn’t that beautiful?

  

  Mrs. Pauline Lutkenhouse

  The Lutkenhouses purchased the first 17 acres of Onomea valley in 1978. At that point it was so overgrown and virtually impenetrable jungle that it took eight years to clear it and design. (Can you imagine eight long years of clearing and creating paths?) Mrs. Lutkenhouse said that even today, she’s still impressed with the creativity and way her husband designed the garden. I must agree, that the design is exceptionally impressive. I admire the vision it took to plan, plant, and create this one of a kind garden.

  After my brief chat with Mrs.Lutkenhouse, I could sense that this garden was so much more than what’s physically visible. It’s a romantic story – one that symbolizes the love that the Lutkenhouses have for Hawaii, for nature, and for each other. If the garden ever considers changing their tagline, I’d like to suggest “A Love Story in a Garden in a Valley on the Ocean”

  The Lutkenhouses added another 40 acres to the original 17. They donated all the land to establish a non-profit nature preserve and sanctuary that’s funded solely by visitors and tax-deductible memberships. While the founders saved this land from being over built, they also created a garden paradise that will be enjoyed for many generations to come. You can read more of the history of this garden on their Web site.

  

  What to Know When You Go

  • Hawaii Tropical Botanical Gardens is located off the scenic four mile drive, Old Mamalahoa Road, just about 9 miles north of Hilo on the Big Island.  See this link for more detailed directions.
  • Open daily from 9am to 5pm, with the exceptions of Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Day. Note admission ends at 4pm.
  • Admission is $15 for adults. Children ages 6 – 16 are $5. Children under 6 are free.
  • We were told to allow at least an hour to tour the gardens. We lost track of time, but we are certain that we enjoyed our visit for over two hours.
  • You will need to guard yourself against mosquitoes. Yes, mosquito repellant is a must!
  • Wear comfortable walking shoes and bring a bottle of water.
  • To get a small preview of the garden, see our collection of photos from our visit.

  Have you been to Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden? How was your visit?

  © Go Visit Hawaii – Republication of this entire post is prohibited without prior permission. Using extracts of less than 100 words are permitted with full attribution and link back to GoVisitHawaii.com.

  
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  Hawaii Vacation Deals & News Roundup: January 27, 2010

  Posted: January 27th, 2010, 12:12pm EST by sheila

  Tags:  Big Island Deals  

  Today’s roundup is bursting with bargains and freebies you’re going to love!

  * A cruise is a great way to get a flavor for all the major islands in a week’s span. Per TravelZoo, NCL is offering this awesome deal of $699 per person plus $100 per cabin ship credit. Wowza! The catch is that the number of cabins at that price are limited. So, the early bird get’s the worm here.

  * Who says a Hawaii vacation has to cost a fortune? That’s absolutely not the case. Just check out this deal from Waikiki’s Aqua Palms & Spa — $69 per night plus free daily continental breakfast and only one block from Waikiki Beach – bargain!

  * Aston Waikiki Beach Hotel is once again on sale for $109 per night. As you may recall, they offer free  coupon book that will help you stretch your vacation dollar.

  * One of my favorite places to stay on the Big Island is Waikoloa Beach Resort and the Waikoloa Beach Marriott Resort has a deal for $169 per night for an ocean view room. See this link for more details.

  * Enjoy a free Moonlight Movie, poolside at Embassy Suites-Waikiki Beach Walk, on Saturday, February 13, 2010 at 8pm. The movie will be “The Proposal”.  This show is free and open to the public. Waikiki guests (of the hotel) can watch this sweet romantic-comedy from inside the heated swimming pool on floating rafts or while enjoying cocktails and snacks on one of the resort’s chaise lounges. Being the eve of Chinese New Year, the night will kick-off with an exciting and cultural “Lion Dance” performance.

  * Enter to win a Big Island getaway along with $100 food credit. King Kamehameha’s Kona Beach Hotel is giving away a three-night getaways each month in 2010.

  * Catch a free dolphin show at Dolphin Quest in the Hilton Waikoloa Village every Tuesday at 4:15pm.

  * Well, I have some more good news to share with you. Go Visit Hawaii was just named in the top 50 travel blogs by Konector. I don’t know the exact rank, but to be listed as a top 50 travel blog considering this blog just focuses on one, relatively small destination, I’m blown away. Mahalo to Go Visit Hawaii readers for your support.

  © Go Visit Hawaii – Republication of this entire post is prohibited without prior permission. Using extracts of less than 100 words are permitted with full attribution and link back to GoVisitHawaii.com.

  
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  Notes From Our Big Island Visit

  Posted: January 26th, 2010, 11:57am EST by sheila

  Tags:  Big Island Restaurants  

  As I mentioned last week, I have so many ideas, suggestions and experiences to share with you that I hardly know where to start. I’m conscious that some readers may be in the process of planning your own vacation to the Big Island, so I wanted to go ahead and provide some brief advice and insights from our trip.

  I’ll have more detailed posts to share, but in the meantime I’ll briefly list my newly garnered advice on where to stay, what to do and where to eat on the Big Island.

  Where To Stay On The Big Island

  We really picked a couple of excellent winners this time around. We stayed on the town of Volcano for two nights and in Waikoloa Beach Resort for 10 nights.

  * In Volcano (Hilo side), we loved the Volcano Teapot Cottage. It’s an adorable two-bedroom cottage that was built in the early 1900’s. The hosts were delightful and kept us well stocked in fresh island fruits and yummy baked goods. We wished we could have stayed longer.

  * In Waikoloa (Kona side), we stayed in a fantastic villa resort at Hali’i Kai. I think it may be the best villa (condo) community in all of Hawaii. The community has an ocean front pool that is gorgeously designed and landscaped. On top of that, there’s a great poolside restaurant and bar. The food was some of the best we had on the island. We enjoyed watching whales from pool and exercise hale and our private lanai. We found the villa we rented (8A) on VRBO.com. The owners were easy to work with and allowed us to pay via Pay Pal for our protection. We’ll definitely be back to Hali’i Kai!

  What To Do On The Big Island

  * We were finally able to get to the Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden off the Four Mile Scenic Drive. I had heard good things about the garden and I thought I’d enjoy it, but it exceeded my expectations! As we paid our $15 admission, we were advised to allow an hour to tour the garden. I think we spent well over two hours there.

  * We loved the Friday night Kona Village Luau – Savai’i, Origins of the Polynesia Luau. The luau buffet was the best we’ve had with a ginormous selection. Their kalua pork was prepared straight from the imu and it was so delicious. Oh, and the show was very good, too.

  * We thought the snorkeling at Kealakekua Bay was some of the best we’ve done, yet. As I mentioned in my post, Planning to Explore Kealakekua Bay, I chose to snorkel with Fair Wind II. They provided a great tour that suits all levels and interests.

  * We gave the Ocean Sports Sunset Sail another try and they continue to do a great job. The secret to taking this particular sail is that this time of year, it also becomes a free whale watching tour. We saw a whale breach approximately 75 yards off the boat. I have a few 20% off coupons I can pass along in case you’re headed there anytime soon.

  * For more suggestions of what to do on the Big Island, see Best (Hawaii) Big Island Free and Budget Friendly Activities

  Where To Eat On The Big Island

  We had good experiences at the following restaurants:

  • Kiawe Kitchen on Old Volcano Road in Volcano
  • Cafe Ono on Old Volcano Road in Volcano
  • Cafe Pesto in Kawaihae
  • Tex Drive-In for malasadas in Honokaa
  • Yong’s Kal-Bi Korean Restaurant in the Waimea Shopping Center (KTA) in Waimea (Recommended by Jerry & Bobbie at TheRightBlue)
  • Kona Brewing Company in Kailua-Kona
  • We continue to recommend Roy’s and Sansei in Waikoloa Beach Resort

  For more suggestions on where to eat on the Big Island, see Best Big Island Restaurants

  © Go Visit Hawaii – Republication of this entire post is prohibited without prior permission. Using extracts of less than 100 words are permitted with full attribution and link back to GoVisitHawaii.com.

  
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  Hawaii Vacation Deals & News Roundup: January 20, 2010

  Posted: January 20th, 2010, 12:11pm EST by sheila

  Tags:  Big Island Deals  

  

  * The new Disney resort on Oahu has a name and a Web site now. The Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa is due to open in the Ko Olina area of Oahu in the fall of 2011. The name Aulani means “the place that speaks for the great ones,” or “the place that speaks with deep messages.” (Source)

  * Shape Magazine is offering a Hawaii vacation sweepstakes for a two-night stay at the Mauna Kea Beach Hotel. Enter to win here. Though it’s only a two-night stay, you could make a bigger vacation of it and take advantage of this deal at the Keahou Beach Resort for a partial ocean view room and free breakfast for two at a rate of $139 per night.

  * The next Pirates (of the Caribbean) movie will be filmed on Kauai and Oahu this summer and will premier in the summer of 2011. (Source)

  * In other entertainment news, rumors are surfacing again of a Hawaii Five-O remake. (Source)

  * The OHANA Waikiki Malia has completed a $6.6 million renovation and to celebrate it they’re offering introductory rates starting at $79 per night. For more information, see this link.

  * Valentine’s Day isn’t too far away, in fact, it’s less than a month away. We all know that Hawaii is a very romantic place to celebrate love. If you’re going to be in Waikiki for Valentine’s Day, check out this special spa treatment at the Na Ho’ola Spa at the Hyatt Regency Waikiki Beach Resort . They’re offering “a lovers’ delight with the Valentine’s Day Chocolate Body Scrub with Rose Body Butter Massage package. The two-hour package is available throughout the month of February for $249.  To find out more, or to make a reservation, please call Na Ho’ola Spa at (808) 237-6330 or visit www.nahoolaspa.com.” Oo la la! 

  * Guess what? Go Visit Hawaii is listed among the top 100 independent travel blogs per Travel Blog Sites. We actually rank as the 20th best independent travel blog. I’m excited about that ranking, especially considering the site only focuses on a single destination. Thank you for reading and helping us achieve this high rank!

  * Andy and I are back home from our 17-night trip to Lanai and the Big Island. This trip was one of our best yet. I have so much advice and information to share with you. I just don’t know where to start. Any requests?

  © Go Visit Hawaii – Republication of this entire post is prohibited without prior permission. Using extracts of less than 100 words are permitted with full attribution and link back to GoVisitHawaii.com.

  
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  Planning to Explore Kealakekua Bay on Hawaii’s Big Island

  Posted: January 7th, 2010, 5:12am EST by sheila

  Tags:  Big Island See Do  

  On my upcoming trip to the Big Island, I’ve planned to visit Kealakekua Bay State Historical Park, This park is significant for three main reasons –

  • It’s the site of the first extensive interaction between Hawaiians and Westerners with the arrival of Captain James Cook. Here, you’ll find the Captain Cook Monument.
  • It’s one of Hawaii’s top snorkeling spots.
  • Kealakekua Bay was once a major Hawaiian settlement where many ali’i (chiefs) lived.

  This Hawaii state park brochure provides a great overview of the history and significance of Kealakekua Bay.

  Kealakekua Bay is located south of Kona. See this Google Map of Kealakekua Bay for an overview of the area. From first glance at the map, you might think that there’s easy access to the bay and a close view of Captain James Cook Monument, but it’s not as easy as you might think. The only ways to access this historic bay and the monument is by:

  • Tour boat
  • Kayak from Napo’opo’o Bay
  • 4 – 6 hour round-trip hike

  I’ve chosen an organized snorkel tour with Fair Wind II. (Watch for an upcoming review.) I considered kayaking the bay, and I may do that on another visit, Since my sister and brother-in-law will be joining us and as this is their first time snorkeling, I felt that the security of an organized boat tour was the best option. Plus, it sounds like tons of fun, too!

  Here’s a YouTube video that gives you a peek at the beauty and history of Kealakekua Bay.
  

  (Email subscribers, please click here to access the video.)

  Have you been to Kealakekua Bay? Which access method did you choose? How was your visit?

  © Go Visit Hawaii – Republication of this entire post is prohibited without prior permission. Using extracts of less than 100 words are permitted with full attribution and link back to GoVisitHawaii.com.

  
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  Update: Hawaii’s Big Island Luaus

  Posted: January 4th, 2010, 6:32am EST by sheila

  Tags:  Big Island Restaurants  

  

  Just over two years ago, I compiled the complete list of  Big Island Luaus along with their prices, schedule, and links to reviews. Since then a few more luaus have popped onto the scene, plus there have been some pricing changes. I’ve updated the list to include these changes and additions. Click the following link to access the updated Big Island Luau Options List.

  Have you been to a Big Island luau? Which one did you choose? How did you like it?

  Dear Go Visit Hawaii Subscribers: I want to let you know that during the month of January, I will not be able to post as frequently as normal. I’ll be taking a break and doing some research.

  © Go Visit Hawaii – Republication of this entire post is prohibited without prior permission. Using extracts of less than 100 words are permitted with full attribution and link back to GoVisitHawaii.com.

  

Hawaii Travel Guide

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  Hawaii Cruises for 2010 - cruising the Hawaiian Islands

  Posted: January 2nd, 2010, 4:03am EST by Bruce Fisher

  Tags:  Big Island  

  Cruising to the Hawaiian Islands is as adventure and it’s a great opportunity to see more of Hawaii in a short period of time. With the cruise you don’t have to worry about flying between the islands so you avoid all of the travel time that’s associated with air travel between the islets. Once your ship arrives into the Hawaiian Islands becomes a floating hotel in Europe a different island almost everyday. For 2010 there will be a cruise lines coming to the Hawaiian Islands. There are no all inclusive resorts in Hawaii so a cruise is he next best thing because all of you food and entertainment aboard the she is included.

  

Hawaii Vacation

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  Planning a Hawaii vacation 2010?

  Posted: December 23rd, 2009, 12:36pm EST by Pua

  Tags:  kohalacoast Big Island vacation  

  Here is an idea from Best Hawaii Vacation blog for 'Which Hawaiian Island to visit in 2010' and 'What to do in Hawaii on vacation in 2010?' If you want to add some additional excitement to your Hawaii vacation 2010, please, keep reading.
  
  Hawaii Big Island has been named the island of adventures by Hawaii travelers for a long time. Viewing a live volcano in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park or stargazing through telescopes on top of the highest mountain on earth (measured from bottom of the sea) Mauna Kea Summit, not to forget those daredevils who ski the mountain in winter, helped the Big Island winning this attribute of 'adventure island'.
  
  I've always called the Big Island, the Hawaiian Island of Superlatives. Why not plan your 2010 Hawaii vacation for October on the Big Island and add one more of those Superlatives to your Hawaii vacation next year? Kona Hawaii Big Island will host the next Ironman Triathlon World Championship on Saturday October 9, 2010. Believe me the Hawaii Ironman in Kona meets the criteria for biggest and best Hawaii event. This is your chance to be part of the biggest spectacle in Hawaii. Not sure what to expect, watch this Hawaii youtube video of the 2009 Hawaii Ironman.
  
  
  
  So, when sitting down with family or friends over the holiday planning your Hawaii vacation 2010, share with them this exciting video. BTW, this is not a paid advertising. I just like the video!
  
  Mele Kalikimaka - Merry Christmas to all our Best Hawaii Vacation blog visitors. We hope you will stay with us through another exciting year of Hawaii vacations 2010. Aloha, Pua Affordable Hawaii Vacations
  
  Tags: Hawaii vaction 2010, Big Island vacation, Best Hawaii event, Kona Ironman Triathlonhttp://kohalacoastweb.blogspot.com/feeds/posts/default?alt=rss

Hawaii Vacation Advice

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  Hawaii Vacation Deals & News: December 4, 2009

  Posted: December 4th, 2009, 12:05pm EST by sheila

  Tags:  Big Island Deals  

  Let’s see what top news the surf has brought us on this Aloha Friday:

  * Congratulations to Go Visit Hawaii reader, Natalie for winning the Go Visit Hawaii reader reward contest. Natalie reads Go Visit Hawaii from her Canadian home in Nelson, BC. When I told her she had won, she shared this with me, “I just started to receive the emails from you.  I find them very enjoyable.  We will be going to Waikiki for our Family Christmas Vacation this year, and it will be our first with no snow…Not sure if I will miss it or not.” I hope she enjoys it. I do like Christmas snow, but wouldn’t mind trading snow for sand on occasion.

  * Waikiki’s Hilton Hawaiian Village has two nice Winter sales:

  • The Winter Sale has rates starting at $159 for stays between January 1, and March 31, 2010 . If I remember correctly, $159 is probably the lowest rate I’ve seen from Hilton Hawaiian Village in quite some time. So, it’s a real deal that this great rate is being offered during peak Winter travel months. I’m told that inventory is limited and you must pre-pay in full for this non-refundable special rate. To book it, call Hilton Hawaiian Village at 808-949-4321 and ask for rate code QP.
  • The Suite Sale offers a fourth night free and special low rates on suites and specialty rooms during December. For example, rates for Rainbow Tower King Oceanfront room with Diamond Head views start at $279 per night. With this sale, the average price per night for a four-night stay would be just a little more than $200. For a complete list of available suites and specialty rooms, call the resort at 808-949-4321 and ask for rate code P4.

  * The newly renovated Mauna Lani Bay Hotel on the Kohala Coast of the Big Island is offering an early booking deal. If you book by 12/31/09, you can get rates as low as $278 per night during the prime Winter visiting months of January through March 2010. See this link for more details.

  * If you like the looks of these deals, but you’re wondering if airfare is expensive, I have some great news. I’ve found quite a few excellent rates from around the U.S. Here are some of the examples:

  • Portland to Honolulu $299 round-trip, plus taxes and fees on Delta and Northwest for travel dates between January 5 and March 13, 2010.
  • Houston to Honolulu $413 round-trip, plus taxes and fees on American for travel between today and December 16 with no advanced purchase restriction. This low fare is available again from December 31, 2009 through March 3, 2010 with a 30-day advanced purchase.
  • Charlotte to Honolulu $483 round-trip, plus taxes and fees on Delta and Northwest. There’s a 14-day advanced purchase for travel dates between January 4 and March 8, 2010.
  • Newark to Honolulu $512 round-trip, plus taxes and fees on American for travel between today and December 16 with no advanced purchase restriction. This low fare is available again from December 31, 2009 through March 3, 2010 with a 30-day advanced purchase.
  • Use a good fare search engine like Kayak or FareCompare to search for the cheapest flights from your hometown.

  * American Airlines has a new 10% discount promo code for AAdvanage members. There are too many terms and conditions to list. So, see this link to play the game, see the T&C, and get your promo code.

  * If you are looking for ideas of what to do for Christmas in Waikiki or New Years Eve in Hawaii, hang tight. For some odd reason, information hasn’t been as forthcoming this year and some events are pending. If your Hawaii business has a special Christmas or New Years Eve event, please submit it to me for consideration. Please us my contact form at the bottom of the about Go Visit Hawaii page

  © Go Visit Hawaii – Republication of this entire post is prohibited without prior permission. Using extracts of less than 100 words are permitted with full attribution and link back to GoVisitHawaii.com.

  
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  My 3 Best Hawaii Travel Secrets

  Posted: December 2nd, 2009, 5:05pm EST by sheila

  Tags:  Big Island  

  Gray Cargill who writes solo travel advice at Solo Friendly has tagged me to share my top three travel secrets. This fun travel blog meme started at TripBase with the purpose of highlighting those hidden travel spots that you most likely won’t find in a guidebook. So, here are my top three Hawaii-focused travel secrets.

  

  1. When you go to Oahu, please do yourself a favor and stop into Liliha Bakery in Honolulu for coco puffs. These creamy pastries are absolutely onolicious. I hate to use this overused phrase, but it truly describes you’re first bite of a coco puff – it melts in your mouth.

  Liliha Bakery is very popular with the locals, but I’ve never seen it mentioned in a guidebook. On a flight from Oahu to Maui, I noticed several locals carrying Liliha boxes, which I’m sure would delight their friends and family.

  I’ve written about Liliha Bakery’s coco puffs and how I highly recommend you give it a try. One reader, Aja, wrote this comment on my post about coco puffs:

  “All I can say is WOW – stumbled across this post before going to spend a week in Oahu and it was more than worth the $50 round trip cab ride from Waikiki just to taste one of those amazing coco puffs!! Of course, I couldn’t just stop at one and after buying a box to go I was left licking the wrappers after the last one was eaten. Thank you so much for this recommendation!!”

  Yes, wrapper licking is a side effect of coco puffs. Liliha Bakery is located in Honolulu at 515 N. Kuakini Street.

  

  2. How would you like to brag to your friends that you slept in a volcano? Well, on the Big Island you can stay in some wonderful Bed and Breakfast and inns in the town of Volcano. You won’t find any big name resorts here, but what you will find are small locally owned and operated accommodations that will provide you with a unique experience of the Big Island.

  The town of Volcano is located adjacent to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park and the world’s most active volcano, Kilauea, which makes it a great base for exploring that area of Hawaii Island. For first time visitors to the Big Island, I always recommend staying in Volcano for one to three nights in addition to several nights on the Kona side.

  Though the historic Kilauea Lodge is a favorite of many, I prefer the B&B’s that are surrounded by rainforest filled with Hapu’u Ferns. I’ve stayed at Volcano Rainforest Retreat (Note, this Web site doesn’t open in Firefox, you must use Internet Explorer) and on my upcoming trip to the Big Island, I’ll be staying at the Volcano Teapot Cottage.

  3. Hit any beach at sunset in Hawaii and you’ll most likely find it deserted. Can you believe it?  Even the bustling Waikiki Beach becomes a semi-private beach at sunset. I still find it hard to believe myself. My theory on why the beaches are deserted is that folks are either in a restaurant hoping to have a table with a nice sunset view or they’re preparing to go out to dinner. My advice is to use this secret to your advantage and plan a sunset picnic. I’ll bet that it will end up being your most memorable and possibly one of your cheapest dinners in Hawaii. See my post on the best sunset view dining in Hawaii.

  So, those are my three favorite Hawaii travel secrets. Please add your secret tips in the comments.

  Now, I must tag 5 other bloggers to participate in this meme. I’d love to hear the insight from these folks:

  • Melanie from Travels with Two – Melanie and her husband, Adam have practically traveled the world.
  • Bobbie and Jerry from The Right Blue live on the Big Island of Hawaii have travel extensively to find new adventures in their “lifetime of ocean devotion”. What will their top three secrets be?
  • Surely Gary from Everything Everywhere will have a challenge whittling down to just three top secret spots from his nearly three year long around the world travels.
  • Kris from Maui by Photo and Kaanapali Dreamin’ is blogging pal who is nuts about Maui. Hopefully, he’ll share some of his secret spots from the Valley Isle, Maui.
  • Jim and Martha write Wanderlust Journey. They love traveling and Hawaii is one of their favorites.

  © Go Visit Hawaii – Republication of this entire post is prohibited without prior permission. Using extracts of less than 100 words are permitted with full attribution and link back to GoVisitHawaii.com.

  

Hawaii Vacation

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  A Guide to your Big Island Vacation that will work for you

  Posted: November 16th, 2009, 11:38am EST by Pua

  Tags:  kohalacoast Big Island vacation rentals  

  Aloha Hawaii visitors, What's on today's 'menu' of Best Hawaii Vacation blog today? It's 'A Guide to your Big Island which will work for you'. Please, keep reading if you own a Big Island vacation rental or if you plan a Big Island vacation sooner or later.
  
  Most of our visitors are aware that besides our weekly Hawaii vacation blog posts, which include vacation articles about all the Hawaiian Islands: Big Island, Kauai, Maui, Oahu and Molokai, we constantly update and improve our Hawaii vacation sites Big Island Vacation Guide and Kohala Coast Vacation Guide. Having called the Kohala Coast on the Big Island our home and having been Hawaii vacation rental hosts for many years before retiring from the business in 2006, that's the Hawaii we know best.
  
  
  Our Big Island Vacation Guide with exclusive information about the Kohala Coast and beautiful Kohala Coast and Big Island photos, which we and Hawaii visitors took over the years, was getting Google's and thus Hawaii visitors' attention right from the beginning in 2004.
  
  
  Some time after having created our Big Island Kohala Coast Vacation Guide, we noticed that we cannot pack all the Big Island vacation info onto that site. Exploring the Big Island on vacation, in cyberspace or in reality, is a huge project. Big Island visitors can get easily overwhelmed and lose track of focus. The biggest issue for any Hawaii visitor is to find the right home base on the Big Island from where they want to start their daily explorations. We consider our Big Island Vacation Guide with islandwide Big Island vacation rentals a guide which will work for you, Big Island visitors and for Big Island rental owners!
  
  
  To tell you the truth there are lots of Big Island vacation sites and blogs out on the WWW. Naturally, our amateur, homemade Big Island Vacation Guide was facing strong competition especially from such big corporations like Homeaway, Alwaysonvacation, Vamoose, just to name a few. As former vacation rental hosts it was kind of sad to watch Homeaway buying out all the old well established rental directories like greatrentals, cyberrentals and even vrbo and thus being able to dictate the highest vacation rental listing prices rental owners have ever seen. Unfortunately, the high annual listing price does not guarantee Big Island rental owners that their Big Island rental gets found among the hundreds of listings and gets booked.
  
  What makes our Big Island Vacation Guide unique?
  
  1. Only affordable Big Island rentals, below $200/nt., get listed. 2. Only individually owned Big Island rentals get listed. 3. Big Island map shows location of vacation rental. 4. Guide displays lots of Big Island vacation info: Activities, Car Rental, Events, Weather
  
  Best Big Island Vacation Guide Feature for Big Island Visitors
  
  - See all available Big Island rental locations at one glance. - Click your preferred Big Island locations. - See nightly rental rates at one glance. - Only affordable Big Island rentals are listed. - No wasting your time by visiting hundreds of rental pages!
  
  Best Big Island Vacation Guide Feature for Big Island Owners
  
  - Your listing is absolutely FREE. No limited time offer. - No fine print restrictions. - Link back to HawaiiAffordable + get a free link to your site.
  
  So, visit Pua's and Keoki's Big Island Vacation Guide and let us know what you think of our unique Guide to your Big island vacation. Aloha, Pua Hawaii Vacations
  
  Tags: Big Island Guide, Affordable Big Island vacation, Big Island vacation rentalshttp://kohalacoastweb.blogspot.com/feeds/posts/default?alt=rss

Hawaii Travel Guide

• 

  Restaurant Week Hawaii

  Posted: November 14th, 2009, 1:38pm EST by Bruce Fisher

  Tags:  Big Island  

  

  In recent years, documentarians have taken to teaching moviegoers about the impacts of locally grown food as opposed to processed goods. Films such as “SuperSize Me,” “King Corn,” “Food Inc.,” “The Burning Season,” and “FRESH” all frown upon the effects of processed foods and encourage filmgoers to eat a locally grown diet.

  This always sounds really good until you go on vacation and are away from your favorite farmer’s market or grocer. How can you experience the unique flavors of locally grown dining, especially when visiting Hawaii? Recently, Kanu Hawaii (www.kanuhawaii.org) hosted a weeklong “Eat Local Challenge,” and it really was tough to know where to eat for many of the people involved.

  The Hawaii Restaurant Association aims to change that perception by hosting Restaurant Week Hawaii. Now in its second year, Restaurant Week Hawaii is billed as “a seven-day celebration of the cuisine scene” in the state. From Nov. 16 to 22, more than 40 restaurants in Hawaii are coming together to showcase their best offerings for unbelievable prices as a fundraiser to support the Culinary Institute of the Pacific.

  The Culinary Institute of the Pacific plans to renovate and expand facilities for up-and-coming chefs while including new agriculture programs to teach students about locally-grown agriculture.

  “The week offers restaurants a chance to reintroduce diners to their menus and spotlight the things we’re proud of and to see what is we do, and then they will want to come back,” said Executive Chef Kapo Kealoha of Tiki’s Bar and Grill in Waikiki. Tiki’s, found at www.tikisgrill.com is one of the top buyers of local produce from Ma‘o Organic Farms www.maoorganicfarms.com, located on the west coast of Oahu in Wai‘anae. Tiki’s also buys locally grown beef and fish.

  “Every major city has restaurant week,” said Kealoha, “They’re really big and visitors plan vacations to travel to these cities for restaurant week. This is where we want this to get.”

  Most restaurants are offering prix fixe menus of their best-selling and most popular items on their menus. A list of restaurants can be found online at www.restaurantweekhawaii.com and include every type of food a visitor to the state can think of in terms of food offerings – and yes, reservations are recommended. Malama pono!

  Posted by Laurie Cicotello  Twitter @LaurieCicotello

  

Hawaii Vacation Advice

• 

  Hawaii Ziplining with Nathan (& Tips for Your Zip)

  Posted: November 6th, 2009, 10:39am EST by sheila

  Tags:  Big Island See Do  

  Zippity doo dah, Zippity aye,
  My friend, Nathan went zippin’ Tuesday.
  Plenty of adventure and smilin’ that day,
  Zippity doo dah, Zippity aye.

  With fear and some reluctance, my friend Nathan Kam flew over to Maui from his Oahu home to experience ziplining for the first time. I followed his day of adventure via his twitter account. Nathan didn’t just try one zipline course, he tried Skyline Eco Adventures’ two  courses (Kaanapali and Haleakala) in the same day. That was thirteen zips in one day! Way to kick your fear’s butt, Nathan!

  Nathan posted a video of his experiences which I thought gives you a great idea of what ziplining is like. Check it out! (Email subscribers, please click here to access the video.)
  

  I had my own zipline experience on Kauai that I too feared, but found to be absolutely exhilarating. I felt like a kid, with a daredevil alter ego.

  If you meet the age and physical requirements, I highly recommend you give Hawaii’s ziplines a try. Here are some ziplining tips:

  • You’ll find ziplines on the islands of Kauai, Maui and later this month (November 2009), the Big Island will have its first zipline.
  • Each zipline company has different age and weight requirements. For example, when I took the Princeville Ranch Zip n’ Dip tour, there requirements were that you must weigh between 80 and 280 pounds and be age 12 or older.
  • You need to be in average or better physical condition to zip.  You can’t zip if you’ve had recent injuries or surgeries.  Expectant mothers shouldn’t  zip either.
  • You probably shouldn’t have an extreme fear of heights.
  • You should wear sunscreen and mosquito repellant.
  • Bring water, 16-oz per person is recommended.
  • You should wear shorts that are mid-thigh length or longer.
  • Since you’ll need to run on to the ramps at the end of each zipline, you should wear sneakers or something similar.
  • Bring a hat
  • If you have long hair, bring something to tie your hair back.
  • Bring a small backpack to store your water, wallet, cameras, etc when you zip.
  • Be prepared for the possibility of rain. Tours will operate rain or shine. Actually, we experienced rain on our tour. We were wearing quick drying clothes.
  • Have fun with it. Give your lungs a workout as you zip across these isolate ravines. Andy and I enjoyed practicing our Tarzan yells.

  Have you ziplined in Hawaii? How was your experience? What additional advice would you like to pass along?

  © Go Visit Hawaii – Republication of this entire post is prohibited without prior permission. Using extracts of less than 100 words are permitted with full attribution and link back to GoVisitHawaii.com.

  
• 

  Hawaii Vacation Deals & News Roundup: November 4, 2009

  Posted: November 4th, 2009, 12:03pm EST by sheila

  Tags:  Big Island Deals  

  Just a few quick links to bring to your attention today:

  * November and December have always been really quiet and economical times to visit Hawaii, with the obvious exceptions of the days around Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Years Eve. TravelZoo.com has a great list of hotel deals on all the major islands. There’s too many deals to list, so check it out here.

  * From our series on the best Hawaii restaurants, we were fortunate to have Oahu residents, Dave and Alice, provide a very detailed list of their favorite Oahu restaurants. Dave and Alice recommend the Oceanarium Restaurant in Waikiki for the best buffet. I found a great 25% off coupon here that’s valid through December 15, 2009.

  * I found the Oceanarium coupon through eCouponsHawaii.com, which usually has a handful of coupons to help us visitors save a bit of cash. See my post: Hawaii Vacation Coupons and Discounts for more information.

  
• 

  Hawaii Vacation Deals & News Roundup: October 28, 2009

  Posted: October 28th, 2009, 11:47am EDT by sheila

  Tags:  Big Island See Do  

  

  Giant (Spider) Lily

  * A brand new zip line is due to open on the Big Island in November. Zip Isle will be the first zip line adventure tour to open on the Big Island. From their Web site, it appears that they’ll begin operating November 23rd and the rate is $87 per person. Zip Isle is located northwest of Hilo at the World Botanical Gardens and Umauma Falls.

  * Want to visit Hawaii and volunteer, too? Preserve Hawaii lists some excellent volunteer opportunities. (Hat tip to Dave)

  * Aqua Hotels & Resorts will take over management of the [Hilton] Kauai Beach Resort as of January 1, 2010, per the Pacific Business Journal.  It seems like there’s been quite a few hotel management changes in Hawaii this year, doesn’t it?

  * TravelZoo just released this 10-night New Years Eve Hawaii land and cruise deal for $999 per person. That would be an excellent way to ring in 2010.

  * Conde Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice 2009 Awards named Maui and Kauai the best islands in the world. The Big Island, Oahu and Lana’i were listed among the top 10 Pacific Islands. Three Four Seasons Hawaii hotels were named to the esteemed top 100 list. Those Four Seasons resorts are on Maui, the Big Island and Lana’i (Koele Lodge). No surprises here!

  © Go Visit Hawaii – Republication of this entire post is prohibited without prior permission. Using extracts of less than 100 words are permitted with full attribution and link back to GoVisitHawaii.com.

  
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  Hawaii Vacation Deals & News Roundup: October 22, 2009

  Posted: October 22nd, 2009, 11:47am EDT by sheila

  Tags:  Big Island Deals  

  

  Here’s what I’m hearing from our fine feathered friends today.

  * The humpback whales are back in Hawaii! Per the Maui News, there were several reports of humpback whale sightings on Tuesday, October 20th. Woohoo! (H/T therightblue)

  * From twitter, the Hilton Hawaiian Village on Oahu’s Waikiki Beach is offering a 72-hour sale that started yesterday. With this sale, you get 4th night free when you buy 3 nights of ocean view and up room categories. The deal is good for stays through January 31, 2010, with some blackout dates. To get the offer, book with code P4. See this link with the terms and conditions and a sale countdown clock.

  * Aston Hotels & Resorts is offering a 2010 early bird special. If you book by October 31, 2009 you can lock in some great rates (up to 40% off) for your 2010 stay.

  
• 

  Hawaii Vacation Deals & News Roundup: October 1, 2009

  Posted: October 1st, 2009, 10:31am EDT by sheila

  Tags:  Big Island Deals  

  Here’s the top news on today’s vacation radar.

  

  * You can snag an ocean view room for $129 per night at the 4-star Hapuna Prince Hotel on the Kohala Coast of the Big Island. For only $20 more, you can book a full ocean view. It would be difficult to beat this location for this price! This rate is available for stays through December 25, 2009 but you must book by October 4, 2009. See all the details and exclusions here.

  * The Hapuna Prince Hotel’s sister property on the Kohala Coast, the swank Mauna Kea Resort, has a special offer, too. Their “Legacy Bonus Package” includes the 4th night free plus a $500 resort credit.

  * I’ve mentioned this Maui Ritz-Carlton deal a few months ago. I still think it’s one of the best luxury values available on Hawaii . The deal is $299 per night with a upgrade to the best available room at check-in. On top of that, you’ll receive daily breakfast for two and a $100 resort credit per stay.

  * Fans of ABC’s LOST will want to make plans to attend the Hawaii International Film Festival this month. Specifically, on October 17, 2009, the festival will celebrate this hit TV show that’s filmed on Oahu. (Also see my post on finding LOST filming locations on Oahu.)

  * A new Deluxe Volcano One Day Tour from Maui-based premium air service operator Interisland Airways starts today. The special charter departing from Kahului Airport (Maui) begins with a narrated flight tour of the Hamakua Coast of Hawaii’s Big Island featuring panoramic views of the cascading waterfalls and lush green valleys on the Island’s west side. Upon arrival in Hilo (Hawaii’s Big Island), passengers will be escorted to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park on a mini-bus to view its major attractions. For more information, visit IFlyInterisland.com.

  © Go Visit Hawaii – Republication of this entire post is prohibited without prior permission. Using extracts of less than 100 words are permitted with full attribution and link back to GoVisitHawaii.com.

  
• 

  Hawaii Vacation Deals & News Roundup: September 21, 2009

  Posted: September 21st, 2009, 11:20am EDT by sheila

  Tags:  Big Island  

  There’s lot’s cooking today, so let’s dive right into the vacation news.

  * Maui News has issued their annual “Best of Maui 2009” list. Though the publication is separated out into multiple pdf files, it’s worth your time to review it, if you’re headed to Maui. In the publication, you’ll find the best restaurants in multiple categories, plus you’ll find some deals and coupons. Also, see my own top picks and additional resources on finding the best restaurants in Maui.

  * Four Seasons Resorts in Hawaii have added some new upgrades. You can read all the Hawaii Four Seasons news here. As I skimmed through the news, this little Four Seasons Lanai at Manele Bay tidbit caught my hopelessly romantic eye:

  in Manele Bay [Lanai], new Oceanfront hales overlooking Hulopo’e Bay provide the perfect spot for … the Oceanside Hale Twilight Experience, served in candlelit privacy with Champagne, a five-course tasting menu and fragrant flowers to create the perfect ambience.

  * The Mauna Lani on the Kohala Coast of the Big Island is due to reopen November 1st after a fresh refurbishment. They’ve extended their Hawaii 5-0 deal through December 23, 2009 with rates starting at $270 per night.

  * A 4-D theater is under construction at the Shops at Mauna Lani and is slated to open in November.

  * The former Maui Prince Hotel is under new management and has been renamed the Makena Beach and Golf Resort, per the Maui News. I think it’s worthwhile noting that the same company that manages one of my Oahu favorites, Turtle Bay Resort , is now managing the Makena Beach and Golf Resort on Maui.

  * Attention classic movie buffs! Guess who is returning to Kauai for the first time since taking part of a classic movie filmed on Kauai in 1957-58? If you guessed Mitzi Gaynor from the classic movie musical South Pacific, you’re right. She’s returning to Kauai to take part in the Garden Isle’s celebration of the movie’s 50th anniversary the first weekend in October. On October 4, the Kauai Visitors Bureau is presenting An Afternoon with Mitzi Gaynor at the Kauai Marriott Resort & Beach Club, an entertaining reflection by Ms. Gaynor on the filming of South Pacific and her career. The event is open to the public and benefits the Kauai Museum. Admission is $20.

  * I’ll close this roundup by sharing a video of Mitzi Gaynor singing one of the more famous songs and scenes from South Pacific, I’m Gonna Wash That Man Right Outta Of My Hair. This scene was filmed on Kauai’s Lumahai Beach.

  © Go Visit Hawaii – Republication of this entire post is prohibited without prior permission. Using extracts of less than 100 words are permitted with full attribution and link back to GoVisitHawaii.com.

  
• 

  Dear Sansei, We miss you so much!

  Posted: September 17th, 2009, 11:52am EDT by sheila

  Tags:  Big Island Restaurants  

  Would you please consider opening a restaurant near us?
  Love,
  Andy & Sheila
  

  One of our favorite restaurants in Hawaii is Sansei Seafood Restaurant & Sushi Bar. We first fell in love with Sansei on the Big Island and since then we’ve looked for any opportunity to return.

  I must admit, I’m still working on being a bit more brave with trying sushi. Honestly, there’s nothing I’ve tried that I haven’t liked, so I have no reason to be so unadventurous. Andy, on the other hand, would likely try just about anything. I think he and Anthony Bourdain would become big pals if the ever had the opportunity to meet. Sansei’s Restaurants are the perfect place for Andy and I to go, because I can always fall back on tame sushi-ish dishes like the Mango Crab [cooked] Salad Handroll in a Thai vinaigrette or the melt in your mouth Matsuhisa Style Miso Butterfish (photo).

  

  Crispy Fried Calamari

  Though Andy and I differ a tad on our spirits of culinary adventures, one appetizer that we both enjoy tremendously and never miss ordering is the Crispy Fried Calamari with spicy Japanese cocktail sauce. As a good ol’ Southern saying goes, it’s so good it would make your tongue slap your brains out. I’ve asked what’s in the spicy Japanese cocktail sauce and was told it’s a secret. The best way I can try to describe it is an Asian version of the best buffalo hot wing sauce. I bet a chef would cringe at my description, but it’s the best I can do.

  I’m grateful that you’ve grown to trust my advice here at Go Visit Hawaii, but you don’t have to just take my word on this restaurant recommendation. Sansei Restaurants have won many awards. My Oahu foodie-friend, Melissa Chang, writes for the Honolulu Advertiser. She recently went on a sushi tour of Oahu and here’s what she had to say about Sansei:

  Some of the best and most creative sushi was at Sansei. I know locals don’t think of Sansei so much anymore because it’s in Waikiki, but if you get a chance, you should go. Their sushi rolls were very fresh and presented with artful flair.

  

  You’ll find a Sansei Seafood Restaurant and Sushi Bar on the islands of Maui (in Kihei and Kapalua), Oahu (in Waikiki), and the Big Island (in Waikoloa).

  Sansei Restaurants seem to have fair menu prices. Appetizers start at $3, but I’d say most are in the $9 range. Entrees start at $16.

  Here are few tips for you if you decide to dine at one of the Sansei locations:

  • Most of the locations offer special deals if you’re seated at a certain time – either early or late. Call ahead and ask what their special discounts are. You can find the phone numbers from their Web site.
  • Andy and I recommend the chef’s tasting menu, if it’s offered. Usually, they are good deals plus it’s a great introduction to Sansei’s menu.
  • Sansei is popular with both locals (especially on the Big Island and Maui)  and visitors, so it’s best if you make a reservation. If you happen to pop into a Sansei and there’s a long wait, check for seating at the bar where you can access the full menu.

  Have you been to a Sansei Restaurant and Sushi Bar in Hawaii? What was your favorite dish?

  © Go Visit Hawaii – Republication of this entire post is prohibited without prior permission. Using extracts of less than 100 words are permitted with full attribution and link back to GoVisitHawaii.com.

  

Hawaii Travel Guide

• 

  Twenty one hours in Kona

  Posted: August 31st, 2009, 6:41pm EDT by Bruce Fisher

  Tags:  Big Island  

  

  I had the opportunity to make a quick jump over to the Big Island recently, for a private gig with my fiddle player Lesley. We were asked to provide some tasteful Irish music for a scotch tasting event for about a dozen people. We obliged happily, as all expenses were paid and we were to be put up at the luxurious Hilton Waikoloa Village.

    We flew over to Kona on Hawaiian Airlines, and I had no problem carrying on my guitar case/overnight bag. We had e-tickets, so I have the feeling that if I had checked in with a human I would have had to actually check my guitar as baggage and therefore risk it being destroyed. This was not the case, however, and my gig bg fit comfortably in an overhead bin. I am unaccustomed to hassle-free air travel, so the experience fostered some faith in the industry.   We went directly (to my vague dismay, as I had hoped to check in at the Waikoloa first) to the venue, Aloha Friday’s at the Kona Coast Resort. I was told that the timeshare development has been at 100% capacity for twenty years. There are quite a few amenities there, things like shuffleboard, volleyball, barbeque pits and a pool and spa. I’m not particularly familiar with the timeshare experience, but from what I could ascertain at the Kona Coast Resort, it is certainly a fine way to spend a vacation. Shell Vacations operates there, and offers a wide variety of recreational opportunities from the coast to the summits of the Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa volcanoes.   Between sets at Aloha Friday’s, I was served what may be the biggest and best rib-eye steak I’ve ever had the joy of eating. The service was impeccable and the guests were properly sated by the time the affair ended.   We didn’t get to the Waikoloa until after 10pm, so I was forced to rise early the next morning in order to make the most of my brief time of the property. Lesley and I did manage to have martinis and mojitos at the Malolo Lounge before turning in.  The Hilton Waikoloa is, to say the least, expansive. Our room overlooked the tennis complex and stadium. There are multiple swimming pools on the property, one of which is a saltwater pool fed by the ocean and populated by reef fish and frequent turtle visitors. I elected to lounge in a simulated lava rock grotto with a Jacuzzi. I am a world class Jacuzzi enthusiast. Cocktail service doesn’t start until 10am, so I was forced to go without a requisite vacation Bloody Mary.   I wandered over to the Dolphin Quest encounter area, where two teen siblings were entranced by the friendly and strangely human behavior of smiling dolphins. With only about a half hour to kill before making the drive to the Kona airport, I strolled among the Buddhist statues leading to Buddha Point, a jutting piece of real estate home to a large Buddha statue. I rubbed his belly and headed back to our room to gather my things.   My only regret about the brief sojourn is that I didn’t have more time to spend at the Hilton Waikoloa. It is an impressive property and our room was cool, quiet and handsomely appointed. The golf course is gorgeous, and should I make it back there, I will most certainly play a round there. Although I didn’t have much time, I found my experience t the Kona Coast Resort and the Hilton Waikoloa to be most worthy of recommending to anyone.    Posted by:  Jamie Winpenny    On Twitter:  @doolinjamie

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• 

  Happy Feet

  Posted: August 20th, 2009, 7:49pm EDT by Bruce Fisher

  Tags:  Big Island  

  

  When I packed for my first trip to Hawaii, I had no idea what shoes to bring.  This is not just a girl thing, so guys don’t stop reading.  I was going to a business conference, so I brought a pair of dress shoes and I figured sandals would be good for a warm climate.  I bought a new pair because I didn’t really wear sandals in Colorado.  I brought my flip flops (called "slippers" in Hawaii) for the beach.  Every one of those decisions was wrong.

  I wasn’t alone.  I remember watching other conference participants slog along the Honolulu beach-walk from conference sessions in one hotel to another in closed-toe shoes.  Flip flops were too casual for the meetings but dress shoes were inappropriate on the beach.  After the first session, I gave up on dress shoes and wore sandals.  That was a reasonable compromise for the meetings.  But they were new and I walked a lot more than I thought I would at a conference.  My first stop on the second day was at an ABC store for band-aids for blisters on both feet.

  The weather was so perfect and the scenery so beautiful that I wanted to walk a lot, both around Honolulu and later on a bus around Oahu.  But blisters, and inappropriate footwear, made that unpleasant.  I wasn’t even hiking, just exploring the island on foot.  Dress shoes were not good for walking long distances or on the beach.  Same for the sandals, which were also too new to be comfortable.  The flip flops might have worked but they had a closed toe that is very good for not stubbing your toe on rocks in Colorado.  However, sand got stuck in the toe when I wore them on the beach making them uncomfortable and impossible to clean.

  NOW this is what I would bring for any trip to Hawaii, whether business or pleasure:  one pair of comfortable walking shoes that are really broken in.  That’s it.  They would work for most conferences — even business conferences are more casual in Hawaii than on the mainland.  They are also essential for some attractions (such as visiting Pearl Harbor) that involve standing or walking.  And they make it possible to experience an impromptu hike on one of Hawaii’s many enticing trails.

  I would buy slippers for the beach after I got here, either a cheap pair to use and discard (sold at every convenience store) or a better pair to take home as a souvenir (I now have an expensive pair with arch support that I have worn pretty much every day for a year without a single blister.)  After all, who knows slippers better than Hawaii?
   

  Posted by Cindy Scheopner  Follow me on Twitter @Scheopner 

   

  

Hawaii Vacation Advice

• 

  Hawaii Vacation Deals & News Roundup: August 12, 2009

  Posted: August 12th, 2009, 12:13pm EDT by sheila

  Tags:  Big Island Deals  

  
  Here’s a look at at the Hawaii vacation news that’s recently caught my eye:

  * Waikoloa Beach Marriott on Hawaii’s Big Island is offering a super deal of 50% off ocean view rooms. This $169 nightly rate is good for stays between now and December 24th, but you must book by August 21st.  This resort has been recently renovated and in my opinion, Waikoloa is a great place to stay on the Big Island.

  * There’s another Marriott deal worth mentioning. It’s the Statehood Package celebration Hawaii’s 50 years of statehood. The package includes 4th night free, resort credit, and more. See this link for the promotion code and details on the participating Oahu, Maui, Kauai and Big Island resorts.

  * Honolulu Magazine has assembled their restaurant choices for the ideal breakfast, lunch and dinner itineraries for Oahu, Kauai, Maui, and the Big Island.

  * Have you checked airfare to Hawaii recently? There’s been a new slew of deals that are good for travel between August and mid-December. Here are some examples I found by searching FareCompare:

  • Detroit to Honolulu $534 round-trip
  • Atlanta to Honolulu $435 round-trip
  • Cincinnati to Honolulu $533 round-trip
  • Minneapolis-St Paul to Honolulu $436 round-trip
  • Houston to Honolulu $438 round-trip

  * Hawaiian Airlines is celebrating it’s 80th anniversary with a fun game to guess the different era of Hawaiian Airlines uniforms. When you play the game, you can become eligible to be one of eight winners of a roundtrip coach tickets for two. Here’s a link to the game.

  * Do you tweet on twitter? If so, you may be interested in this National Geographic Traveler article with advice on traveling with twitter. (Notice that the article quotes yours truly.)  By the way, I’m on twitter, please let me know if you tweet, too.

  
• 

  Hawaii Cows

  Posted: August 4th, 2009, 9:59am EDT by sheila

  Tags:  Big Island  

  After posting about Hawaii’s cowboy, the paniolo, earlier today, I was reminded of one of my favorite off-beat Hawaii vacation photos. So, I thought it would make a good excuse to share the photo here. It’s of a cow pasture near Honokaa off Highway 240 on Hawaii’s Big Island.

  

  Here’s a close up of one of the grazing cows. I bet that’s one happy cow.

  © Go Visit Hawaii – Republication of this entire post is prohibited without prior permission. Using extracts of less than 100 words are permitted with full attribution and link back to GoVisitHawaii.com.

  
• 

  ABC’s The Bachelorette Heads to the Big Island of Hawaii

  Posted: July 27th, 2009, 10:45am EDT by sheila

  Tags:  Big Island  

  Whether you’re a fan of ABC’s romance-seeking show “The Bachelorette” or not, you’ll surely enjoy the backdrop on tonight’s two-hour finale. The contestants head to Hawaii’s Big Island. 

  At a minimum, we can all agree that the show’s producers have great taste in destinations. On the last episode, Jillian Harris and her then three suitors – Ed Swiderski, Reid Rosenthal, and Kiptyn Locke – romped around on Maui in style. Tonight, Jillian and the two remaining bachelors, Ed, and Kiptyn, head to the Big Island for even more romance.

  I’ve been tipped off with a little scoop of where the bachelorette, Jillian, Ed, and Kiptyn will be going on the Big Island. Prepare yourself to salivate over these fantastic Hawaii adventures and settings:

  • Helicopter tour over Kilauea volcano’s active lava flows with Sunshine Helicopters
  • Private barbeque at a secluded Hilo waterfall provided by KapohoKine Adventures
  • Discovering a remote black sand beach with Captain Zodiac Rafting Adventures.
  • Dinner and, ahem, “alone time” at  three of the Kohala Coast’s luxury resorts –  Fairmont Orchid, Mauna Kea Beach Hotel and Hapuna Beach Prince Hotel. Excuse me please, while I turn green with envy. Jillian gets to stay in the 3,736 square foot Fairmont Gold Presidential Suite and have a romantic private dinner date with sushi provided by Sushi Chef Norio Yamamoto.

  On Chris Harrison’s blog, he promises “the most dramatic season finale EVER!!!” If you watched the season-finale preview, you may have noticed that Reid Rosenthal, the bachelor who was booted off on Maui, makes a return to the show. It appears that he’s holding an engagement ring. Though I can’t predict who Jillian will choose, I can confidently predict drama, heartbreak and tears. So, tune in tonight to watch this season-ending episode with a flair of Aloha.

  © Go Visit Hawaii – Republication of this entire post is prohibited without prior permission. Using extracts of less than 100 words are permitted with full attribution and link back to GoVisitHawaii.com.

  

Hawaii Vacation

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  Kona Hotel or Kona Condo which one is Best for Hawaii Ironman Accommodation

  Posted: July 10th, 2009, 11:49am EDT by Pua

  Tags:  kohalacoast Big Island vacation  

  Warm aloha to all of our Best Hawaii vacation blog visitors, and especially to those who still want to visit the Big Island in October for the Hawaii Ironman Triathlon World Championship but were not able yet to find that affordable and special Ironman rate offer. If that is you, please, continue reading. Our today's blog post might have just the best place with top amenities at top location for the best rate I could find online.
  
  Inquiries for Kona accommodations, vacation rentals such as Kona condos come in quite frequently in our Kohala Coast Vacation Guide, where we also list Kona vacation rentals, homes and condos. The Kohala Coast is a great option when visiting the Big Island for the Hawaii Ironman Triathlon event.
  
  However, for active triathletes competing in the Kona Ironman we always recommend lodging in Kona. If you are still searching for a place to stay in Kona for the Ironman 2009, we recommend to read one of our most recent posts 2009 Hawaii Ironman Visitors Information.
  
  Now, coming back to our blog title question Kona hotel or Kona condo which one is best for your Ironman visit?', that does not take much thinking. First of all, Kona hotels are currently filling up fast and with no amenities like a fully equipped kitchen they are not as much desired as a vacation condo. OK admitted Kona hosts raise their condo or rental rates significantly for the Ironman week but still most everybody comes out ahead with renting a Kona condo versus a Kona hotel room.
  
  
  Against all odds, our friend Joe decided to make our Best Hawaii Vacation blog visitors the following special offer for his Luxury 2Br/2Ba Kona condo at Mauna Loa Resorts for the Kona Ironman Week: $1650/wk (sleeps 6)! Believe me this is a rare find. That's why we agreed to publish it on our blog:
  
  Week October 4 - October 11, 2009 Ironman week race starts Oct 10, 2 bedroom luxury condo at Mauna Loa Resort completely furnished incl bedding, dishes cooking utensils etc, near all events in downtown Kona Rate $1650 for the week. Call Joe at 703-269-7014!
  
  
  Mauna Loa Resort is a quiet oasis and a beautiful place for a wonderful Hawaii vacation. This Mauna Loa 2-bedroom deluxe condo offers fully-equipped kitchen, washer/dryer, dining room, bedrooms with plenty of closet and storage space, living rooms with pull-out sofas, and large lanai with tropical views. Remember: better than a Kona hotel! Mauna Loa Village features 8 swimming pools, hot tubs and plenty of tennis courts. BTW, you're just two blocks away from convenient Keauhou Shopping Village: grocery store, shops, restaurants and multi-screen movie theater.
  
  
  
  If you are not one of those crazy triathletes who have to immediately take each minute to prepare for their biggest performance in a lifetime, this wonderful Kona condo allows you to enjoy many outdoor activities, such as swimming, snorkeling, bike riding, walking, hiking, and more. When searching for Kona condo specials for the Ironman, I found a 2Br/2Ba at the same resort for $5000/wk. If you don't believe me, Google has the answer!
  
  If you do believe me, call Joe and make your Kona condo Ironman reservation at a premier Kona location for the best price in the Kona Alii Drive area. What's your experience with Kona vacation rental hosts for this 2009 Hawaii Ironman? We'd love to hear from you. Mahalo and aloha, Pua Hawaii Vacations
  
  Hawaii Ironman Triathlon Related Articles
  
  2009 Hawaii Kona Ironman Visitors Information
  Kona Ironman ccommodations 2008
  Visit Hawaii 2007 Hawaii Ironman in Kona
  Hawaii Ironman Triathlon Kailua Kona 2006 Watch 2006 Ironman Kona videos

  Tags: Kona Ironman, best price Kona condo, Ironman special, Hawaii Ironmanhttp://kohalacoastweb.blogspot.com/feeds/posts/default?alt=rss

Hawaii Travel Guide

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  Introducing Jamie Winpenny

  Posted: July 7th, 2009, 10:25pm EDT by Bruce Fisher

  Tags:  Big Island  

  

  Many readers, I’m sure, are familiar with the writing of my father, Jim Winpenny. He left us in May, presumably to join my mother in the paradise they most certainly deserve. “Pa,” as I called him, left behind a legacy of love and aloha for which my sisters and I will be forever grateful. I’ve followed in his footsteps by pursuing a career in the creative arts, writing in particular. I’ve been asked by the founders of Aloha-Hawaii.com to continue my father’s work here, and I am honored and humbled to assume that mantle.

  I am fortunate to have grown up in Hawai’i, unfathomably lucky to have surfed, hiked, camped and fished my way into adulthood. My parents allowed me to explore my myriad interests, and Pa in particular supported my ambitions as a professional musician. I like to recall that for many years my parents viewed my musical aspirations with loving bemusement, considering my efforts a “phase.” It was on my thirtieth Christmas when years of touring the U.S. with a band I founded were validated. My father bought me a guitar. It wasn’t a top-of-the-line model, but it was and indication that Ma and Pa were proud of me. That guitar remains the greatest material gift that my parents ever gave me. There were bikes, surfboards and skateboards under the Christmas trees some memorable years, but it was that guitar that spoke the most about their love for me.

  I hope to provide unique insight for Hawaii-Aloha.com blog readers into the limitless potential for physical, mental and spiritual fulfillment that Hawai’i holds for those who reside in or visit these islands. As a professional musician, I may post about nightlife. As a lover of local food, I may post about my favorite place to get a good plate lunch or fresh seafood. As an avid outdoorsman, I may post about the best uncrowded beach or the best kept secret in local golf. I’ll probably do some wise-cracking, too. As my father’s son and as a writer, I will most certainly endeavor to post pithy, relevant information about these islands that readers will find useful as they explore the most geographically isolated, biologically rich and culturally unique archipelago on Earth.
   

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• 

  Kona Billfish Tournament enters it’s 50th Year

  Posted: July 6th, 2009, 5:32pm EDT by Bruce Fisher

  Tags:  Big Island  

  

  Ahab and Quint had their fictitious quarries in “Moby Dick” and “Jaws” respectively, but real people have a similar — and equally challenging — quest every year at this time in the famous warm and deep fishing waters off the Kona Coast, on Hawaii’s Big Island.  The prey is the Pacific Blue Marlin – specifically one that weighs more than a half-ton called a Grander.  The annual event is the Hawaii International Billfish Tournament (HIBT), now in its 50th year; the “Grandfather of All Fishing Tournaments.”

  The top prize (There are ten in all) is the prestigious Governor’s trophy, awarded to the boat that earns the most points based on the cumulative weight of all the billfish and tuna it catches.  Billfish must weigh at least 300 pounds to qualify; tuna 100 pounds.  The prizes are trophies; the $3,500-$5,000 per-boat entry fees are reimbursed only by the thrill of the chase.  Participants are urged to “tag and release” – to get the leader in hand and tag the fish with an official tag, then disengage the hook or cut the leader as close to the hook as possible and release the fish alive and capable of survival.  (Tagging and releasing is not essential; a lot of good fish for eating are caught.)

  But the grand prize is the Grander.  Fewer than 70 Granders have been caught in Hawaii waters in the last 70 years; in the tournament, boating one is rare, indeed.  Blue Marlin can swim at speeds of up to 50 mph, leading to exciting chases, and the angler is equipped with a mere rod and reel.  Once hooked, Granders have been known to turn, leap and become predators — 1,000+ pounds of spear-armed fish lunging back at the angler or an onlooker on the boat.

  If you happen to have a sturdy fishing boat in your back yard and want to get it some exercise, you might consider registering it for this year’s tournament.  If not, and as a fisherman you’re intrigued by the challenge, you can charter a boat in Kona for HIBT. 

  Give me a call at 1-800-843-8771 if you need some more information and I will "Hook you up"

  Posted by: AlohaBruce

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Hawaii Vacation Advice

• 

  Hawaii Vacation Deals & News Roundup: July 6, 2009

  Posted: July 6th, 2009, 11:46am EDT by sheila

  Tags:  Big Island Deals  

  How are you this fine Monday? Have a nice July 4th holiday? Ready to start thinking about heading to Hawaii? Yeah, me too. So, let’s take a look at the latest vacation news.

  * The Faimont Orchid on the Kohala Coast of Hawaii’s Big Island has a special $199 summer sale for a garden view room. Ocean view and suites are available at 50% off published rates. You must book by July 12, 2009 for this special offer that’s available for stays between now and December 21, 2009. (Note that there are a few black out dates.) For more information see this link.

  * On the Big Island’s Hamakua Coast, there’s a lovely B&B, Waianuhea Bed and Breakfast, that I have on my radar of places I’d like to stay. One of my twitter pals, Donna Hull, stayed there recently and wrote this review. This B&B has a stay three nights, get a fourth night free  special offer during September, October, and November 2009.

  * Here are a few super airfare deals I found via FareCompare:

  • Dallas (DFW) to Honolulu (HNL) $456 round-trip,including taxes and fees for late August and September
  • St Louis (STL) to Honolulu (HNL) $456 round-trip, including taxes and fees for late August and September.
  • Miami (MIA) to Honolulu (HNL) $456 round-trip, including taxes and fees for late August and September
  • Check out FareCompare’s recently launched  “Cheap Deals to Hawaii” page, where you can see the best available round-trip airfare deals to Hawaii, for any month you like – from any airport.

  * Pleasant Holidays has been offering a $99 companion ticket to Maui and Oahu from either LAX or SFO when you purchase a travel package. Jen Leo shares her experience and tips for tracking down this this deal.

  * Did you know that Hawaii has some excellent museums affiliated with the Smithsonian? The weekend of September 26th, many Smithsonian associated museums will be offering free admission. Here’s the list of participating Hawaii museums. You will need to print an admission card when it becomes available here. (If you aren’t going to be in Hawaii on that weekend, then use this link to find participating museums near you. Note that you can search by state.)

  * My friend Kris has recently launched a cool new blog, Maui by Photo. Congratulations, Kris!

  

Hawaii Travel Guide

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  Independence Day in Hawaii

  Posted: July 2nd, 2009, 9:18pm EDT by Bruce Fisher

  Tags:  Big Island  

  

  If you’re lucky enough to be on your Hawaiian Vacation during the 4th of July, you’ll find plenty of celebration. Independence Day in Hawaii.  It’s as American as poi, surfing and the Humuhumukununukuapua’a.

  Each year, on all the islands, we celebrate pretty much as you do at home.  We cook out, we throw horseshoes, we play softball and volleyball, we splash in the water, we hold parades and we watch fireworks.  

  At the edge of the Downtown Honolulu Harbor, The Aloha Tower Marketplace will celebrate a day early – on Thursday the 2rd — with live entertainment on several stages, street entertainers, restaurant specials and a fireworks display.
   
  The definitive fireworks display Friday on Oahu will erupt on Magic Island and feature a music simulcast on two Hawaii radio stations.  Anyone can pick up a free pair of 3-D fireworks viewing glasses with any purchase at Ala Moana Center starting Tuesday.  
   
  On Maui, the fireworks will shoot from a barge moored off of Lahaina, preceded by a concert on the lawn of the Lahaina Public Library.
   
  The Makawao Rodeo and Independence Day celebration has taken place in upcountry Maui for 50 years over the 4th of July weekend.  It includes bareback bronco riding, barrel racing, calf roping, live music and country-western dancing.  
   
  The Kauai 4th of July festival is held at the Vidinha Stadium in Lihue with live entertainment, food and game booths, and a fireworks display. 
   
  On the Big Island, The Parker Ranch 4th of July Rodeo is an award-winning event that includes horse races, team sorting, double mugging, dally team roping and other rodeo events.

   Visitors enjoy Turtle Independence Day at Mauna Lani Bay.  People gather to celebrate young Hawaiian green sea turtles gaining their freedom.   The little amphibians from Sea Life Park on Oahu have been nurtured in the ponds at Mauna Lani Resort and are released into the ocean on July 4. 

  If you’re going to be in Hawaii over the Independence Day weekend, we’ll give you the latest scoop about events on your island.  Check with an agent at hawaii-aloha.com, or call 1-800-843-8771.

  Posted by: AlohaBruce

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Hawaii Vacation Advice

• 

  Hawaii Vacation Deals & News Roundup For June 26, 2009

  Posted: June 26th, 2009, 12:35pm EDT by sheila

  Tags:  Big Island Deals  

  
  Let’s take a peek at another Aloha Friday edition of Hawaii vacation news.

  * Guess which U.S. city is the most romantic according to TripAdvisor members? I’ll give you a clue. It starts with “Hono” and ends in “lulu.”  Wow! You’re right, it is Honolulu. How’d you guess so quickly?   I agree that Honolulu is very romantic, in fact, Hawaii is a very romantic destination in general. (Note that the photo above is of the Waikiki area of Honolulu at night.)

  * Check out FareCompare’s new  “Cheap Deals to Hawaii” page, where you can see the best available round-trip airfare deals to Hawaii, for any month you like – from any airport. Rick Seaney, FareCompare’s CEO, says, “We gathered all the great deals to this favorite destination-which includes all the best-loved islands – by popular demand!” Spend a few minutes playing with this fare search tool and I’m sure you’ll want to bookmark it and/or sign up for their free real-time email alerts. I like how you can customize the results from your city so you’re not sifting through a sea of other originating destinations. Another feature I like is that you can check fares to all Hawaii’s major airports at a glance on the same page.

  * Did you hear about the luau held on the White House lawn last night? Did your invitation get lost in the mail, too? Well, just in case you’d like to recreate the luau at home, you can find the recipes  from Hawaii’s award-winning Alan Wong here. The menu sounds very onolicious.

  
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  July 4th Events & Fireworks: Maui, Kauai, Hawaii’s Big Island

  Posted: June 26th, 2009, 11:33am EDT by sheila

  Tags:  Big Island  

  You’ll be sure to find some fantastic Independence Day celebrations across Hawaii. Here’s what’s happening for July 4th, 2009.

  MAUI

  July 4th Fireworks in Lahaina – Starting at 5pm, Lahaina town will begin celebrating with a free concert followed by a waterfront fireworks display at 8pm. You’ll be able to see the fireworks free of charge from the oceanfront, but for something unique, consider taking a tour boat out for the fireworks. Trilogy is one of my favorite boat tour companies in Maui and they have a special July 4th dinner and fireworks excursion. The Pacific Whale Foundation has some special boat tours, too.

  44th Annual Makawao Paniolo Parade – Well this Upcountry event isn’t necessarily Independence Day focused, but it’s a great cultural event celebrating the paniolo, Hawaii’s cowboy. The parade starts at 9:00am in Makawao Town. See this link for more information. It’s also noteworthy to mention that the 54th Annual Makawao Rodeo is on from July 2 – 5.

  KAUAI

  20th Annual Concert in the Sky – At the Vidinha Soccer Field in Lihue, you’ll find games, food, live entertainment and fireworks. (Note that HAPA will be performing.) The celebration begins at 4pm. This event is a fundraiser for Kauai Hospice, so an entrance fee is required. See more information about this event and how to purchase tickets here.

  July 4th Fireworks and Celebration in Kekaha – The small town of Kekhka on Kauai’s southwest shore will host a free Independence Day celebration including games, crafts, cultural displays, and live music followed by fireworks. The festivities begin at 5pm at Faye Ballpark. See this link for more information.

  BIG ISLAND OF HAWAII

  Great Waikoloa Rubber Duckie Race & 4th of July Extravaganza – Waikoloa Beach Resort on the Kohala Coast is hosting a great line up of events all day on July 4th. They’ll have games, bands, a rubber duckie race, and fireworks set to live music. (Note that the U.S. Air Force Band of the Pacific will be performing.) See more about these fun festivities here.

  Kailua-Kona Community 4th of July Parade & Celebration – A fun parade through Kailua-Kona starts at 5:30 followed by fireworks display over Kailua Bay at 8:30pm. For more information with a parade route map, see this link.

  Turtle Independence Day – This annual event at the Mauna Lani Resort educates visitors about the endangered Hawaiian green turtle, the honu. Young honu are raised in the ponds at the Mauna Lani Resort before their July 4th independence day when they are released back in to the ocean. This event goes from 10:30am until noon. See this link for more information.

  Volcano Village July 4th Parade & Celebration -  This Independence Day parade will begin at 9 a.m. at the Volcano Post Office and proceed for one half mile along Old Volcano Road to Cooper Community Center. The parade will feature the Hawaii County Band, floats, antique cars, fire engines, bicycles, horses, and animals in costumes! Music, games, food booths, dunking pond, craft fair and prizes to follow. Call Betsy Mitchell for more infomation at (808) 967-7209. (Per KonaWeb)

  Hilo 4th of July Fireworks – A fireworks show sponsored by the Hilo Jaycee’s is set to start at 8:00pm from Coconut Island. You can view the fireworks from the waterfront in Hilo town.

  Don’t forget that you can watch nature’s fireworks e.g., the active volcano. You can watch lava flowing from the Kalapana area.  From within the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, you can watch the red lava glow from Halemaumau crater at night. Use these links for more helpful information:

  • Advice for viewing Big Island lava flow
  • Tips for visiting Hawaii Volcanoes National Park
  • Hawaii Volcano ObservatoryDaily Updates

  OAHU

  See my detailed list of Honolulu/Waikiki/Oahu July 4th fireworks and celebrations.

  © Go Visit Hawaii – Republication of this entire post is prohibited without prior permission. Using extracts of less than 100 words are permitted with full attribution and link back to GoVisitHawaii.com.

  

Hawaii Vacation

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  2009 Hawaii Kona Ironman visitors information

  Posted: June 25th, 2009, 6:42am EDT by Pua

  Tags:  kohalacoast Big Island vacation  

  Aloha Best Hawaii vacation blog visitors, What's on our mind today? Let's talk Hawaii Ironman and here is why. It's a short 3 months to Hawaii's biggest event: the Hawaii Ironman Triathlon Ford World Championship. The 2009 Hawaii Ironman takes place on Saturday October 10th in Kailua Kona. Kona attracts for the Big Island Ironman event thousands of visitors and athletes from all over the world. Last year's 2008 Ironman Triathlon recorded 1731 athletes at the start. What's new for this 2009 Kona Ironman?
  
  
  2009 Hawaii Kona Ironman Visitors Information
  
  1. Book your Kona accommodation early
  
  Remember our most recent blog post about 'Will Hawaii foreclosures help your dream of living in Hawaii?' We mentioned there that one Hawaii town is hit especially hard by foreclosures. The town is Kona. The foreclosures of many Kona condos which were used in the past as vacation rentals will limit the availability of Ironman accommodations. Kona condos, especially those in Alii Dr, are in high demand because they are self-catering and offer the best training conditions for the triathletes participating in the Ironman. Visitors love this location as well because it's in walking distance to the Kona Pier, the start and finish of the Ironman.
  
  2. Early bird Kona Ironman specials?
  
  Your best chance of finding an 'early bird' special for your stay in Kona for this year's 2009 Hawaii Triathlon World Championship is when you book NOW. Generally, Kona vacation rental hosts charge double the rates for the Ironman week. If you are early enough with your inquiry, Kona hosts might be still willing to cut you a special deal. If you don't mind a little bit driving from Kona Captain Cook Kealakekua area to downtown Kona, your chances for an affordable vacation rental are even better.
  
  
  3. Share a Kona vacation home with friends or family
  
  This way your Kona visit won't stretch your budget beyond your limits. In addition, you can stay at a more luxury Kona home - maybe with a pool and jacuzzi - which you can afford by sharing the rental fees. You are hanging out with your friends anyway, so why not stay at one place?! The Kona Ironman is a huge social event. Feel the excitement of the cheering crowds and become part of it.
  
  4. Plan your Big Island activities
  
  The Big Island offers some of the biggest Hawaii attractions, many beyond the ordinary. Don't leave the Island of Hawaii without having visited our live volcano in Hawaii Volcano National Park or snow-covered Mauna Kea Summit for a spectacular stargazing night. These are once-in-a-lifetime adventures. Make your plans for exploring the Big Island ahead of your arrival in Kona Hawaii. Your Kona vacation week is over in a wink of an eye. So get the most out of your Kona Ironman visit.
  
  
  If you have visited the Hawaii Kona Ironman in the past or have anything to share with our blog visitors about Kona or the Ironman, please, leave a comment right here. Mahalo and aloha, Pua Hawaii Vacations
  Hawaii Kona Ironman Related Articles
  
  Kona Ironman ccommodations 2008
  Visit Hawaii 2007 Hawaii Ironman in Kona
  Hawaii Ironman Triathlon Kailua Kona 2006 Watch 2006 Ironman Kona videos
  
  Tags: 2009 Hawaii Ironman, Kona vacation, Best Hawaii Event, Hawaiihttp://kohalacoastweb.blogspot.com/feeds/posts/default?alt=rss

Hawaii Vacation Advice

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  Hawaii Vacation Deals & News Roundup for June 10, 2009

  Posted: June 10th, 2009, 10:16am EDT by sheila

  Tags:  Big Island Deals  

  Take a load off  in this hammock while we review today’s Hawaii vacation deals and news nuggets.

  * The big news on the Big Island is that the night-time intense orange glow from the vent at Halemaumau crater has really been spectacular in recent days. The glow is produced from molten lava some 300 feet below the crater floor. Though it’s no substitute for seeing the real thing, I’ve been checking the crater (semi-live) web-cam when it’s dark in Hawaii to see the glow. If you are going to the Big Island soon, check in with the visitor’s center at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park for advice on seeing the excitement. Per park officials, the best view of the Halemaumau crater glow is from the overlook at Jaggar Museum. You can check the most up-to-date volcano activity here. Also, see my tips for visiting Hawaii Volcanoes National Park.

  * Pottery Barn has a Hawaii vacation sweepstakes for a 7-night vacation for two at the Outrigger Reef on the Beach in Waikiki (see my review.) The Pottery Barn Hawaiian Dream sweepstakes includes airfare, dinners. tickets to the Polynesian Cultural Center, surfing lessons, and more. Enter before July 15, 2009.

  * A flight to Hawaii from the US mainland is quite a haul. The five to 14-hour flights are best tolerated in first class. That’s why I was excited to learn that United Airlines had a sale on first class tickets to and from Hawaii. A first class fare sale is a rarity, so I’d hop on it as soon as possible if you are interested. You must book before June 12, 2009 and have a 21-day advanced purchase for travel completed by October 8, 2009. See this link for all the terms and details. (Mahalo to Rick Seaney’s First Class blog for the heads up.) Here’s a sample of some of the low first class fares:

  • Los Angeles to Maui – $1044 round-trip plus taxes and fees
  • Los Angeles to Kauai – $1,176 round-trip plus taxes and fees
  • San Francisco to Honolulu – $1,182 round-trip plus taxes and fees
  • Denver to Honolulu – $1,222 round-trip plus taxes and fees

  * When the average going rate for accommodations on Maui is $240, I think this Aston Kaanapali Shores studio deal with a full kitchen is pretty sweet at $129 per night. Not only is the rate a good deal, but you also get free scuba lessons, free hula show, a coupon book, plus kids under 12 stay, play and eat free.

  * Prince Resorts on the Big Island, Maui, and Oahu are offering fourth or fifth night free on top of reduced rates.

  * Pleasant Holidays has some great deals to Hawaii. If you can fly from Los Angeles (LAX) you can get deals starting from $369 per person for three nights accommodation and airfare. See this link for their deals.

  * Over the weekend I noticed that September and October airfares took a nice drop. If you can travel either of those months, now might be a good time to book your travel and snag the best seats. Check with sites like FareCompare and Kayak as well as your favorite airlines for the lowest fares.

  © Go Visit Hawaii – Republication of this entire post is prohibited without prior permission. Using extracts of less than 100 words are permitted with full attribution and link back to GoVisitHawaii.com.

  

Hawaii Travel Guide

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  Hiking in Hawaii is Spectacular

  Posted: June 10th, 2009, 2:21am EDT by Bruce Fisher

  Tags:  Big Island  

  

  Most of the states have great places for hiking, but it’s hard to beat Hawaii’s variety.  All the islands have great hiking territory.  Here are a few to consider if you’re a hiker or if you just enjoy beautiful walks:

  • On Kauai, the Kalalau Trail hosts some of the most spectacular views in the Hawaiian Islands, and the Hanakapiai Falls Trail begins two miles up the Kalalau Trail on the Na Pali Coast at Hanakapiai Beach.
     
  • On Maui, the Halemauu Trail to Holua Cabin descends the sheer cliffs of Haleakala on the west crater wall.
     
  •  Waipio Valley and Mauna Kea are near the northernmost point of the Big Island. Once the home President John F. Kennedy’s first Peace Corps training camp, the area today is a remote and little-visited place modern man has all but forgotten.

  For the full spectrum of all that is Hawaii, consider the 1,875 acres of Waimea Valley on Oahu’s North Shore.  It’s been a sacred place for more than 700 years of Native Hawaiian history.  78 sites of interest have been identified in the valley, including religious sites and shrines, house sites, agricultural terraces and fishponds.

  The valley’s150-acre botanical collection contains more than 5,000 kinds of tropical and subtropical plants, including native and endangered Hawaiian plants.  Four out of five species of native freshwater fish can be found in Kamananui Stream.

  Once you’re in the valley, for which there’s an admission fee of $5.00 to $10.00, you can participate in several free activities including lei making, kapa demonstrations, hula lessons, Hawaiian games, crafts, music and story telling.

  Several free (with your paid admission) walking tours are offered at 10:00 a.m., 11:00 a.m. 1:00 p.m. and 2:00 p.m.

  You want to be sure to take in the Valley’s 45-foot waterfall, Waihï.  It’s about 3/4 of a mile from the park entrance booth.

  Waimea Valley hosts larger tours – from easy and moderate family walks every Saturday to strenuous five-hour scrambles on the last Saturday of every month.   Guides will help you identify the native and exotic plants, and will point out the indigenous birds and fish.  The family hikes cost $5.00 per person, and the five-hour hikes cost $10.00 in addition to the valley entry fee.  You’ll need reservations.

  As you finish your visit, there is a retail store that showcases the work of local artists and Hawaii crafters of locally made products. The store also hosts weekly demonstrations by featured vendors.  The valley’s on-site concession services uses locally grown, made-in-Hawaii ingredients for tasty local dining.

  Posted by: AlohaBruce

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Hawaii Vacation Advice

• 

  Hawaii Vacation Deals & News Roundup for June 3, 2009

  Posted: June 3rd, 2009, 11:25am EDT by sheila

  Tags:  Big Island Deals  

  * Evelyn posted the latest Carnival of Aloha that has an exceptionally good line up of posts this month. It even includes my post on coco puffs at Liliha Bakery. 

  * There’s a couple of excellent Hilton deals for Waikiki at the Hilton Hawaiian Village and on the Big Island at Hilton Waikoloa Village. The Hilton Summer Escape packages are designed for the family vacation. The escape includes great freebies like seventh night free, free luau admission, free breakfast for the kids, and golf and spa discounts. Click on the previous links for more information on saving up to $500.

  * What’s the average going rate for a hotel room in Hawaii? According to the most recent (April) analysis, here’s the average nightly rate per island:

  • Oahu – $148
  • Maui – $240
  • Kauai – $189
  • Big Island – $197

  * The National Parks service is offering three fee-free weekends this summer at more than 100 national parks, including  Pu’uhonua o Hōnaunau National Historical Park and Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park on the Big Island as well as Haleakalā National Park on Maui. The fee-free dates are:

  • June 20-21, 2009 (Father’s Day weekend)
  • July 18-19, 2009
  • August 15-16, 2009

  * Microsoft just launched a new travel search site, www.bing.com/travel/ that’s getting good reviews from travel experts. One of the best features is the integration of Farecast which gives an intelligent guess about when you should purchase airfare.

  © Go Visit Hawaii – Republication of this entire post is prohibited without prior permission. Using extracts of less than 100 words are permitted with full attribution and link back to GoVisitHawaii.com.

  
• 

  Hawaii in Contrasts: From Lifeless Lava to Lush Jungle

  Posted: June 2nd, 2009, 11:03am EDT by sheila

  Tags:  Big Island  

  We continue the series of Hawaii in Contrasts with a visit to Hawaii’s Big Island. As you probably know, all the Hawaiian Islands were formed from volcanic eruptions. The Big Island is the only Hawaiian island that still has an active volcanic eruption. In fact, Hawaii’s Big Island continues to grow in land mass as lave flows to the ocean. A visit to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park will show you how lava covered and newly formed land looks. The photo below shows acres of lava covered land and a volcanic crater. Notice that there’s very little vegetation.

  

  Now, contrast that vast expanse of nearly lifeless lava with the jungle photo (below) that was taken less than fifty miles away from Hawaii Volcanoes National Park at Akaka Falls State Park. This lush rainforest area is teeming with hapu’u ferns, bamboo, and vines of all kinds. What’s so fascinating to me is that, hundreds or thousands of years ago, this lush jungle scene once looked similar to the acres of hardened lava in the top photo.

  That’s quite a contrast, isn’t it?

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• 

  Arts & Culture Events Across Hawaii For June 2009

  Posted: May 28th, 2009, 8:33am EDT by sheila

  Tags:  Big Island See Do  

  If you’re headed to Hawaii this June, you’ll find loads of special arts and cultural celebrations on the islands. Many of these excellent events and festivals are free. So, let’s take a look at the list of what you’ll find happening on each island.

  HAWAII’S BIG ISLAND

  Celebration of Hula – “Na ‘olelo o ka pu‘uwai”(June 6 from 5 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.) – Celebrate the arrival of summer with hula, song and chant in a relaxing evening under the stars with family, friends and hula enthusiasts. Includes several Big Island hālau performing kahiko (ancient) and ‘auana (modern) hula. Waikoloa Bowl at Queens’ Gardens, Waikoloa Beach Resort. Free. Call (808) 886-8822 or visit www.waikoloabeachresort.com.

  The Brothers Cazimero (June 6 at 8 p.m.) – The brothers Cazimero pioneered a renaissance in Hawaiian culture in the early 1970s, making an indelible mark on contemporary Hawaiian music. Consummate musicians, Robert and Roland, have enjoyed almost four decades of uninterrupted success unrivaled by any other performer in Hawai‘i. Kahilu Theatre in Waimea. Tickets $40 – $45. Call (808) 885-6868 or visit www.kahilutheatre.org.

  King Kamehameha Day Celebration (June 10) – Come to the northern tip of the Big Island to honor the legendary Hawaiian king in his North Kohala birthplace. A floral parade, ceremony draping the King’s statue in lei, hula, food booths and musical performances mark this special day. Call (808) 884-5000 or visit www.kamehamehadaycelebration.org.

  Kamehameha Festival (June 11 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.) – This festival includes two distinct events – The Kamehameha Games and the Ho‘olaule‘a. The Ho‘olaule‘a will focus on the ‘ohana (family) and features Hawaiian music, dance and oli competition. The Games focus on the kāne (men) and feature traditional Hawaiian warrior protocols, competitions, workshops and self improvement presentations. Queen Lili‘uokalani Gardens and Moku Ola (Coconut Island) in Hilo. Free. For information, call (808) 989-4844 or visit www.kamehamehafestival.org.

  King Kamehameha Day Parade (June 13 from 9 a.m. to noon) – A beautiful floral parade through the heart of Kailua-Kona honoring the great Hawaiian monarch. Featuring Hawaiian-themed entries, including pā‘ū riders representing all the Hawaiian Islands, bands, hula and community groups. Also food booths, crafts and much more. Ali‘i Drive.

  Kohala in Concert (June 13 at 7:30 p.m.) - Kohala’s music is an acoustic blend of island, folk, and jazz guitar that reflects the diverse musical influences of this talented and popular trio. The band has released seven CDs since 1998 and has toured extensively throughout Hawai’i, Japan, and the U.S. Kīlauea Military Camp Theater in Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park. Fee. Call (808) 967-8222 or visit www.volcanoartcenter.org.

  “Hawai‘i Nei 2009″ Art Show (June 13 – August 2 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily) – This is a unique show of art representing native species, the first juried art exhibition on Hawai‘i Island to celebrate native flora and fauna. The show features artists of all ages working in a wide variety of media. Volcano Art Center Gallery in Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park. Free but Park entrance fees apply. Call (808) 967-7565 or visit www.volcanoartcenter.org.

  Na Mea Hawai‘i Hula Kahiko (June 20) – See traditional hula and chant performed outdoors on the hula platform overlooking Kīlauea Crater, featuring Halau Na Pua ‘o Uluhaimalama, 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Hawaiian crafts demonstrations at Volcano Art Center Gallery 9:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. in Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park. Free but Park entry fees apply. Call (808) 967-8222 or visit www.volcanoartcenter.org.

  Composing: Decisions of a Songwriter (June 27 from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.) – In this lecture-demonstration workshop, learn about composing songs with well-known composer Keith Haugen, who shares songs he has composed, from Hawaiian, hapa-haole, and hula to folk and country. Open to all levels, ages 16+. Volcano Art Center’s Niaulani Campus in Volcano Village. Fee. Call (808) 967-8222 or visit www.volcanoartcenter.org.

  Pu‘uhonua o Hōnaunau Annual Cultural Festival (June 27 – 28) – This enjoyable and educational festival is held in Kona at Pu‘uhonua o Hōnaunau National Historical Park, perhaps the premier spot in the state to learn about ancient Hawaiian culture. Demonstrations of – and participation in – numerous Hawaiian arts and lifestyle activities, including net fishing, weaving, food preparation, and much more. 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Call (808) 328-2326, ext. 32 or visit www.nps.gov/puho.

  “Our Songs of Hawai’i” (June 28 at 2 p.m.) – Spend an afternoon with Keith and Carmen Haugen, musical duo that performed in Waikīkī for 35 years. Hear about the Hawaiian language, history, place names, and inspiration behind Keith’s original compositions plus enjoy hula by Carmen. A musical treat! Volcano Art Center’s Niaulani Campus in Volcano Village. Free. Call (808) 967-8222 or visit www.volcanoartcenter.org.

  KAUAI

  ‘Ohana Saturday at Kaua‘i Museum (June 6)– Admission is free for the whole family with special presentations. Call (808) 245-6931 for more information.

  Kaua‘i Hula Exhibition (June 20) – An evening of Polynesian history through dance performed by the dancers of Na Hula O Kaohikukapulani at the Kaua‘i War Memorial Convention Hall. Cultural chants, history and food. Call (808) 335-6466.

  Second Annual Red Clay Jazz Festival (June 27 at 6 p.m.) – Enjoy the music of seven musical ensembles including local, stat, and nationally renowned jazz artists. This unique Kaua’i music extravanganza is Kaua’i Concert Association’s commitment to realize the vision of the late Pete Robinson, a veteran Kaua’i Jazz DJ. Through the collaboration of KCA and the W.S. Pete Robinson Fund, the 2nd Annual Red Clay Jazz Festival brings a diverse set of artists to entertain by Kalapaki Bay. This event will be held on the luau grounds of the Kaua’i Marriott Resort and Beach Club in Lihue. Call (808) 245-7363 or visit www.kauai-concert.org.

  MAUI

  Maui Film Festival at Wailea (June 17 – 21) - 10^th annual festival showcases special movie screenings and premieres under the stars. Contemporary Hawaiian music and The Taste of Wailea. Wailea Resort. Call (808) 579-9244 or visit www.mauifilmfestival.com.

  Ki Hoalu Festival (June 28) - 18th annual, free slack key festival featuring an all-star line-up of some of Hawai‘i’s best ki hoalu musicians, with local vendors, arts and crafts, and delicious local-style food. Maui Arts & Cultural Center, A&B Amphitheater. Call (808) 242-SHOW or visit www.mauiarts.org.

  OAHU

  “20 Going On 21” (continuing through June 21) - The Contemporary Museum will celebrate its 21st anniversary by honoring contemporary Hawaiian artists during “20 Going On 21: Honoring the Past, Celebrating the Present, Looking to the Future – An Exhibition of Hawai‘i Artists.” The exhibition displays hand-selected pieces by twenty-one different local artists. Call (808) 526-0232 or visit www.tcmhi.org.

  “Artists of Hawai‘i” (continuing through August 16) – The state’s oldest, most prestigious juried exhibition returns as a biennial exhibit to the Honolulu Academy of Arts. The juror of the exhibition’s 58th installment is Laura Hoptman, Senior Curator at the New Museum of Contemporary Art, New York. Call (808) 532-8700 or visit www.honoluluacademy.org.

  First Friday Honolulu (June 5 from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m.) - Downtown-Chinatown Gallery Walk. A self guided tour. Galleries, museums and studios open their doors for an evening celebrating artists, art and art-making of all kinds. Free. For more information, call (808) 521-2903.

  Live from the Lawn – Summer Dance Showcase (June 5 from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.) – This event features contemporary dance performances by Hawai‘i Ballet, Tau Dance, Iona, Convergence Dance Theatre, Upside Down Dance, and many independent choreographers and dancers. Hawai‘i State Art Museum. Free. Call (808) 586-0900 or visit www.hawaii.gov/sfca.

  30^th Annual Pan-Pacific Festival: Matsuri in Hawai‘i (June 5 – 7) – This unique festival is a celebration of drums and dance, pageantry and parade featuring Japanese entertainment, music, traditions, food and more! Call (808) 535-9099 or visit www.pan-pacific-festival.com.

  King Kamehameha Celebration (June 11) – June 11^th of each year was designated a public holiday to honor the memory of Kamehameha the Great, who united all of the Hawaiian islands. Events include a Kamehameha Day parade, arts and crafts displays and a lei draping ceremony. Downtown and Waikīkī. For more information, visit http://hawaii.gov/dags/king_kamehameha_commission/.

  Terra Nova (June 11 – 14, 19 – 21, 26 – 28; Thursday – Saturday 8 p.m., Sunday 3 p.m.) - Smashbox Presents: Ted Tally’s thrilling play about Amundsen and Scott’s race for the South Pole. The ARTS at Marks Garage. Call 550-TIKS, honoluluboxoffice.com, or at the door 1/2 hour prior to performances. For more information, call (808) 521-2903 or visit www.artsatmarks.com.

  Second Saturday (June 13 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.) – Bring the kids to this free monthly family event. Have fun and get creative with hands-on arts activities. Learn from artists, craftsmen, and storytellers. Hawai‘i State Art Museum. Call (808) 586-0900 or visit www.hawaii.gov/sfca.

  Hawai‘i Craftsmen Raku (June 16 – July 11, Tuesday – Saturday 11 a.m. – 6 p.m.) - Hawai‘i Craftsmen presents: Raku ceramics selected from the annual workshop and festival at Waimanalo Beach Park. Contemporary, functional and traditional Japanese tea-ware and ceramics juried by a well-known visiting artist. The ARTS at Marks Garage. Free. Call (808) 521-2903 or visit www.artsatmarks.com.

  Free Third Thursdays at The Contemporary Museum (June 18 from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.) - Free entry day at The Contemporary Museum. Bring the family…enjoy the tranquil Nu’umealani Gardens and view the exhibitions in the historic Cooke-Spalding residence. TCM is Hawai‘i’s only museum devoted exclusively to contemporary art. Call (808) 526-1322 or visit www.tcmhi.org.

  “Moonlight Mele” concert series (June 25) – The Bishop Museum will kick off its three-part summer concert series, Moonlight Mele, with a performance by award-winning local musician Sean Na‘auao. A talented singer, musician, composer, and producer, Sean, who is a Nā Hōkū Hanohano Award winner, has released over 10 albums in his career and is known for popular hits such as, “Fish and Poi.” This family-friendly concert is presented under the stars on the Great Lawn at Bishop Museum on the last Thursday of each month from June to August. Gates open at 5:30 p.m. for Museum Members and 6:00 p.m. for General Admission. Advance tickets are $15 General; $10 for Bank of Hawai‘i Customers/Employees, Bishop Museum Members, and Military; keiki 3 and under are free. General tickets purchased the day of the event are $20. For more information, call (808) 847-3511 or visit www.bishopmuseum.org.

  36^th Annual King Kamehameha Hula Competition (June 26 – 27) – Over 20 dance groups from the mainland U.S., Japan, and Hawai‘i compete in both traditional (hula kahiko) and contemporary (hula auana) dance styles. Call (808) 536-6540 or visit www.hulacomp.com.

  ——

  All events are subject to change, so verify the event details directly with the organizer. Information courtesy of the Hawaii Visitors and Convention Bureau.

  © Go Visit Hawaii – Republication of this entire post is prohibited without prior permission. Using extracts of less than 100 words are permitted with full attribution and link back to GoVisitHawaii.com.

  
• 

  Hawaii Vacation Deals & News Roundup for May 22, 2009

  Posted: May 22nd, 2009, 10:33am EDT by sheila

  Tags:  Big Island  

  
  Ah, isn’t it nice to know we have a nice long Memorial Day weekend ahead of us?  Before we take off for the weekend, let’s look at these Hawaii vacation news nuggets.

  * Dr. Stephen Letterman (a.k.a. Dr. Beach) issues his annual list of top US beaches before Memorial Day weekend each year. Hawaii beaches claim two spots on the beach guru’s top 10 list including the number one spot. Dr. Letterman placed Kauai’s Hanalei Bay in the number one spot for 2009.  Hamoa Beach, on Maui, claimed the fifth best spot this year. Dr. Letterman bases his annual ratings on fifty criteria that evaluate everything from sand and water quality to facilities and environmental management.

  * Hilton Hawaiian Village is offering a new Friday night poolside show called Rockin’ Hawaiian Rainbow Revue. The show provides a nostalgic review of music that made Hawaii famous. Tickets for this 45-minute show cost $15 and you can purchase them up starting at 6:15pm on Friday nights. The show begins at 7:00pm and is followed by the Friday night fireworks display.

  * On Kauai, Island Helicopters is offering a new tour that includes a landing at the 400-foot Manawaiopuna Falls — a waterfall featured in the movie Jurassic Park. In addition to the stop at the waterfall, this 90-minute tour covers the entire island. It’s not cheap, though, at $349 per person. (Before you book any helicopter tour, make sure you review my tips for choosing a helicopter tour in Hawaii.)

  * Make plans to watch Samantha Brown’s show on the Travel Channel this Saturday, May 23. She’s headed to Hawaii’s Big Island. Here’s a link to take a sneak peek of what she’ll be seeing and doing.

  Happy Aloha Friday and Memorial Day Weekend.

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• 

  Hawaii Vacation Deals & News Roundup for May 20, 2009

  Posted: May 20th, 2009, 12:07pm EDT by sheila

  Tags:  Big Island Deals  

  
  It’s time again for another deals and news roundup.

  * Here’s an excellent article from Seattle’s Parent Map that’s  filled with ideas on how to save money on a Maui family vacation.

  * One of the best Hawaii luxury deals I’ve seen in a while is this one to stay at Maui’s Kapalua Ritz-Carlton for $299 per night. In addition to the steeply discounted rate, the deal includes free breakfast for two, $100 resort credit, and upgraded room if available. For rate comparison, I blogged about the newly renovated Kapalua Ritz-Carlton reopening last year. At that time and for many months, the lowest room rate was $599. There were absolutely no freebies and discounts back then either. If you wanted to stay there, you essential paid rack rates. If I was planning a honeymoon to Maui, I’d snap this deal up in a hurry!

  * Another luxury property, the Fairmont Orchid on the Kohala Coast of the Big Island, is on sale for $199 per night for summer travel between June and September, with some blackout dates. See this link for booking details.

  * Yesterday, I blogged about the excellent airfare from Virginia/Maryland areas to Hawaii. There’s a few more special United Airline one-way fares (based on round-trip purchase)  to share with you.

  • New York City-Maui $179
  • Hartford-Kona  $188
  • Charlotte-Maui  $212
  • Boston-Lihue, Kauai $252

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  Airfare Sale to Hawaii from D.C. Richmond, and Baltimore Areas

  Posted: May 19th, 2009, 1:36pm EDT by sheila

  Tags:  Big Island Deals  

  If you can fly from Washington D.C., Richmond, and Baltimore areas, you can fly to Honolulu from $169 one way. Here are some additional one-way sale fares that you can find:

  - Washington, D.C.-Maui  $178
  - Baltimore-Maui  $178
  - Washington, D.C.-Kona $186
  - Richmond-Maui $272
  - Richmond-Kona $283

  The sale is through United Airlines. To get the lowest fares, you must travel Monday through Thursday before August 31, 2009. A 14-day advanced purchase is required. Tickets must be booked by Sunday, May 24. If this deal is of interest, to you I’d advise that you book quickly. 

  H/T to reader and friend, Jim.

  © Go Visit Hawaii - Republication of this entire post is prohibited without prior permission. Using extracts of less than 100 words are permitted with full attribution and link back to GoVisitHawaii.com.

  
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  Hawaii Vacation Deals & News Roundup for May 18, 2009

  Posted: May 18th, 2009, 11:16am EDT by sheila

  Tags:  Big Island Deals  

  

  Here’s a couple of deals to help you save on the family’s summer vacation:

  * Prince Resorts are offering a two rooms for the price of one promotion that will help you save if you are bringing the family or traveling with friends. You book the first room at these published rates:

  - Hawaii Prince Hotel Waikiki - rates start at $330

  - Maui Prince Hotel - rates start at $425

  - Hapuna Beach Prince Hotel - rates start at $415

  - Mauna Kea Beach Hotel - rates start at $700

  Then your second room is free. This offer is valid through September 30, 2009. In addition, if you’re bringing kids ages 5 – 12, they eat for free when dining with parents. Children 17 and younger can golf for free when golfing with their parents. See more details here.

  * I got word that if you book your family’s summer vacation by June 1, 2009 at the Mauna Lani on the Big Island, the kids camp, Camp Mauna Lani, is free. This offer is valid for stays through August 31, 2009. The camp is open to children ages 5 to 12 and the camp is complimentary for up to two children with this limited time offer.

  * The photo at the top is one of Andy’s award winning photos. He won a free Mai Tai for taking the best sunset photo at Tiki’s Grill & Bar in Waikiki back in February.

  © Go Visit Hawaii - Republication of this entire post is prohibited without prior permission. Using extracts of less than 100 words are permitted with full attribution and link back to GoVisitHawaii.com.

  

Hawaii Travel Guide

• 

  You don’t have to learn a new language when you come to Hawaii

  Posted: April 30th, 2009, 3:23pm EDT by Bruce Fisher

  Tags:  Big Island  

   

  We’ve actually received calls asking if it would be a good idea to learn the Hawaiian language before coming to Hawaii.  The answer to that is no.

  English is the dominant language here, although there is such a variety of nationalities that a lot of people who live here have trouble with English.

  The Hawaiian language is spoken only by about 9.000 residents.  You’ll notice that most of the street and place names in the islands are Hawaiian, and you might find them unpronounceable.  (One of the main roads is Kalanianaole Highway, for example, and there’s a place called Kaaawa on Oahu’s North Shore.)  Hawaii’s early immigrants communicated with each other using pidgin, which still is pervasive.  You’ll hear pidgin a lot while you’re here and you’ll get used to it.

  Captain James Cook and his crew recorded the Hawaiian language for the first time on Kauai in 1778.  They immediately noticed the great similarity to Tahitian and Maori.  In order to communicate with the Hawaiians they used Tahitian words and gestures.  They described the Hawaiian language as "primitive, childlike, lilting, effeminate, and simple."  Reduplication (’ele’ele, wikiwiki) and all the vowels sounded to the explorers like baby talk.

  Hawaiian had been an oral language only.  The 19th century missionaries, however, were supposed to teach their converts to read the Bible, so they created a writing system with an alphabet that contained only twelve letters for words of Hawaiian origin.  The Hawaiian language became the language of the government, remained the most commonly used language in daily life, and was used among the numerous different ethnic groups who had all arrived here to work the plantations.  The alphabet was later expanded to allow for two unique characteristics in the Hawaiian word that the missionaries had missed.

  First, there was the unnoticed consonant, a glottal stop.  Try the sound in the American exclamation "oh-oh." The ‘okina symbol (’) now indicates this stop.  Secondly, the five vowels could all function as longer sounds, now symbolized with a short line above the vowel.  (You’ll see those on signs everywhere.)

  The increasing influence of the United States pushed English forward as the language of choice.  Then, with the overthrow of the Hawaiian Kingdom in 1893 and its annexation in 1898, the Hawaiian language was banned entirely from schools and government.

  Imagine this: 500,000 Hawaiians spoke the language when Captain Cook arrived.  Today, there are only 1,000 native speakers left, most of whom live on isolated Ni’ihau.  Another 8,000 people can speak and understand Hawaiian, and use it among themselves.

  So, even if you were to learn the Hawaiian language, you’d have trouble finding somebody to speak it with.

  Posted by Jim Winpenny

  Related blog posts
  Pidgin words you’ll hear in Hawaii
  Hawaiian Language in Petroglyphics

  More links:
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  See our latest videos
  Book your Hawaii vacations here
  
   

  

• 

  Reflect on a Disaster on Your Hawaii Vacation

  Posted: April 29th, 2009, 3:47pm EDT by Bruce Fisher

  Tags:  Big Island  

  

  Back in 1946, a tsunami struck the Hawaiian Islands.

  There had been no warning to Hawaii as the Tsunami Warning System had not yet been established, and the tsunami was extremely damaging throughout the islands. It was especially devastating to the Island of Hawaii.

  The town of Hilo on the island of Hawaii was struck by a series of six to seven large tsunami waves in 15-20 minute intervals.  The highest of those waves had a run-up height of 30 feet above sea level.  The waves completely destroyed Hilo’s waterfront, killing 159 people.  Every house on the main street facing Hilo Bay was ripped off its foundation and carried across the street crashing against buildings on the other side.

  Today, the Pacific Tsunami Museum, in downtown Hilo, offers stark evidence of the power of tsunamis that have hit Hilo and the rest of the Pacific Basin. The Museum is located just across the street from Hilo Bay. A live webcam keeps its electronic eye on the bay to watch for Tsunamis, and there’s an evacuation plan conspicuously posted as you come in since the Museum is within the tsunami zone in Hilo. Hey, there’s actually nothing to worry about.  With all the monitoring going on within the Pacific now, you would have sufficient warning.  If a tsunami were to be headed toward the islands, there would be plenty of time to move to higher ground.  Tsunamis are generated by earthquakes elsewhere in the Pacific.  (An earthquake in Hawaii might generate a tsunami headed outwards.)

  The museum has a series of in-house permanent exhibits that interpret the tsunami phenomena, the Pacific Tsunami Warning system, the history of tsunamis in the Pacific Basin, tsunamis of the future, myths and legends about tsunamis, and public safety measures for tsunami disasters.

  The Museum is certainly worth your time if your vacation plans include the Big Island. (Hilo is on the east coast.)  It’s open every day between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m.  There’s an admission fee of $7.00; seniors pay $6.00 and kids are just $2.00.

  Most of the exhibits are a mix of photographs, text and some video.  Some of the videos are kind of long, but really interesting for anyone with any interest in earthquakes and tsunamis.  As you watch the videos detailing the tsunami destruction in Hilo, you can look out the windows of the museum and imagine the damage and destruction around you.

  If the museum sounds interesting to you, pick an agent from the Hawaii-Aloha Web site (hawaii-aloha.com), or call 1-800-843-8771.  We’ll help you work it into your schedule.

  If  you enjoyed this post you may be interested in these links:
  About the Tradewinds in Hawaii
  What To Wear on You Hawaii Vacation

  More links:
  Follow us on twitter
  See our latest videos
  Book your Hawaii vacations here
  
   

   

  

• 

  Two Issues to Know About while You’re on Vacation in Hawaii

  Posted: April 6th, 2009, 4:44pm EDT by Bruce Fisher

  Tags:  Big Island  

   

  When you’re in the islands on vacation, you may hear or read about the ongoing debate about ceded lands, and about the Akaka Bill, and wonder what’s going on.  Here’s a briefing:

  In 1893, the government of the Kingdom of Hawaii was overthrown by a group of planters and businessmen — mostly American — supported by a contingent of U.S. Marines.  The revolutionaries then established the Republic of Hawaii and entered into negotiations with the United States to seek Hawaii’s annexation.

  When Hawaii was annexed by the United States in 1898, the Republic of Hawaii ceded the public lands of Hawaii to the United States.  When Hawaii became a state in 1959, the United States conveyed more than a million acres of that land to the new state, which was to hold the land in trust for five specific purposes, including "the benefit of Native Hawaiians."  The resulting "Ceded Lands Trust" is like the school lands trusts established in the admission acts of most states that joined the Union after 1820 or so.

  In 1993, Congress issued an apology for the United States’ role in overthrowing Hawaii’s monarchy.  Last year, based on that apology, the Hawaii Supreme Court held that the State cannot convey lands from the Ceded Lands Trust to private parties until the claims of Native Hawaiians to the lands have been resolved.  Today, lot of work remains to resolve a lawsuit that was filed by the Office of Hawaiian over the issue.

  Last month, the U.S. Supreme Court unanimously overturned the state Supreme Court’s ruling and sent the case back to that body, ruling that the apology does not prohibit Hawaiian officials from selling or transferring state land.

  The Hawaii Attorney General and attorneys from the Office of Hawaiian Affairs are now trying to work out the future of the lawsuit.  

  In the meantime, The Native Hawaiian Government Reorganization Act of 2007 – commonly known as the Akaka Bill – is under consideration in Congress.  (U.S. Senator Dan Akaka, pictured above, has proposed various forms of the bill since 2000.)  The bill seeks to establish a process for Native Hawaiians to gain federal recognition that would be similar to the recognition that some Native American tribes currently have.  It also prohibits Hawaiians from establishing casinos under current laws without banning the establishment of casinos under future negotiations from participation in programs and services enjoyed by Indians.  It also prohibits Hawaiians from being included on the Secretary of the Interior’s list of tribes eligible for federal benefits because of their status as Indians.

  There are several aspects of the Akaka Bill that have generated debate, but we won’t go into those here.

  While you’re here on vacation, either or both of those issues may be in the news.  The foregoing provides you with a little background so you know what’s up.

  Posted by Jim Winpenny

  Related Blog Posts
  Take  moment for History on Your Hawaii Vacation
  Before Hawaii Went Commercial
  Two Extremes in Hawaii’s History

  More links:
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  See our latest videos
  Book your Hawaii vacations here
  
   

  

Hawaii Vacation Advice

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  Hawaii Vacation Deals & News Roundup April 2, 2009

  Posted: April 2nd, 2009, 11:21am EDT by sheila

  Tags:  Big Island Deals  

  

  It’s time to harvest up another crop of vacation news nuggets.

  * The Aston Waikiki Beach Hotel has a great value offer of $119 per night through June. In addition to the special rate, guests also receive free daily breakfast with both hot and cold items, plus a souvenir cooler so that you can take your breakfast on the go. Guests will also receive a coupon book and a voucher for 2-for-1 luau dinner and show. For this deal, you must book by April 10th. See this link for more information. The Aston Waikiki Beach Hotel  is located on Kalakaua Avenue on what I’d describe as the Diamond Head end of Waikiki Beach. Here are some helpful YouTube videos that will give you a good look into this very nice, budget-friendly hotel: Video 1, Video 2.

  * The popular Waikiki breakfast restaurant, Eggs n’ Things, has recently reopened after moving to a new location at 343 Saratoga Avenue. (For your reference, the nearest resort is the Hilton Hawaiian Village). Take a look at their menu and you’ll soon see why they are so popular with both locals and visitors. Any restaurant that serves macadamia nut pancakes and coconut pancakes is speaking my language! Are you also fluent in Pancake? Here’s a vacation time saver tip for you -  bring your postcards with you to Eggs n Things and fill them out while you wait. Then go across the street (330 Saratoga Avenue) to the Waikiki Post Office for postcard stamps and mailing.

  * On the Big Island, Fair Wind is offering a Web special. Book a Fair Wind or Hula Kai morning snorkel cruise and receive 50% off a Hula Kai manta dive adventure, whale watch cruise or a Fair Wind afternoon snorkel cruise. This offer is valid through June 30, 2009.

  * The Big Island has a new boutique, eco-friendly lodge in North Kohala called Hawaii Island Retreat at Ahu Pohaku Hoomaluhia. . This new 50-acre oceanfront retreat only has eight suites. Take a look at their Web site; it looks gorgeous and truly unique. They are offering special opening rates start from $250 to $450 per night, double occupancy, with a three-night minimum from April 1 to June 30, 2009. The rate includes full breakfast.

  Today’s roundup photo is courtesy Go Visit Hawaii reader, Dave, from Oahu. He took this photo of the Hanalei taro fields on his visit to Kauai. Thank you, Dave, for sharing your photo with us! Let me know if you have a Hawaii vacation photo that you’d like to be featured.

  © Go Visit Hawaii - Republication of this entire post is prohibited without prior permission. Using extracts of less than 100 words are permitted with full attribution and link back to GoVisitHawaii.com.

  
• 

  Hawaii Vacation Deals & News Roundup - 2nd Birthday Edition

  Posted: March 31st, 2009, 11:25am EDT by sheila

  Tags:  Big Island See Do  

  Whoa! It seems like I’ve been blessed with events to celebrate recently. Today, I’m celebrating that Go Visit Hawaii is two years old. Let’s hope that the “terrible twos” don’t apply to blogs.

  * Starting this Friday, the Shops at Mauna Lani will be offering a free first Friday concert series. See this link and scroll to to bottom for the schedule. Also note, as I’ve previously mentioned in my Big Island free entertainment post, that the Shops at Mauna Lani have free hula performances every Monday and Wednesday evening at 7pm and 8pm.

  * I’m hearing that Kauai’s Princeville Resort will reopen in July, re-branded as the St. Regis Princeville Resort. The renovations began in September 2008 and were originally due to be finished within seven months, per my previous report. According to the resort’s Web site, the resort is accepting reservations beginning October 1, 2009. If the renovations are taking this long, I can only imagine that this swank resort will be absolutely magnificent. I can’t wait to see what they’ve done!

  * The beautiful and luxurious Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort & Spa has a special package designed for families that’s easy on the wallet and generous on the amenities. The deal includes fifth night free plus 50% off the adjoining “kids” room, complimentary daily breakfast buffet for two adults and two children, an upgraded room view category for both rooms, and more. The offer is valid for stays from June 1 through December 19, 2009. For more information, call 800-447-3334 and request offer code FAMSUM or call your travel agent. (The photo on the right is courtesy of Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort & Spa.)

  * Looking for something fun to do the last weekend in April? Want to celebrate a Hawaii favorite? Then start making plans to attend the 7th Annual Waikiki Spam Jam. I must make plans to attend this event someday because I have heard over and over again that it’s so much fun.

  * Oahu’s Turtle Bay Resort is going to be on the big screen again. (As you may recall, “Forgetting Sarah Marshall” was filmed at Turtle Bay, too.) Filming of the romantic adventure comedy, “You May Not Kiss the Bride”, began last week on the resort’s grounds. In this film, Hawaii will be playing the role of Tahiti and picturesque Kawela Bay will be featured. So, if you are going to be staying at Turtle Bay Resort in the next four weeks, you might see some stars on site.

  * Mahalo to Evelyn at Homespun Honolulu who always issues a first rate blog carnival of Aloha. You can read the newest issue here.

  * I’ve just read yet another report on the rental car shortage in Hawaii. Readers have been contacting me about this problem, too. Before I booked my flights for a trip to Maui, I first checked to see if I could rent a car. I had no issues and my planning window was less than two weeks out and over Easter. If you should have a problem finding a rental car in Hawaii, see my post on strategies for overcoming the rental car shortage.

  * So, did you notice in that last bullet point that I booked flights for Maui? I am buzzing with excitement. Andy and I are taking my parents to Maui for their first visit to Hawaii. I can’t wait to play tour guide and see Maui through their fresh eyes. Our trip begins next week.

  © Go Visit Hawaii - Republication of this entire post is prohibited without prior permission. Using extracts of less than 100 words are permitted with full attribution and link back to GoVisitHawaii.com.

  

Hawaii Travel Guide

• 

  You’ll Hear Some Funny Words During Your Hawaii Vacation

  Posted: March 25th, 2009, 11:20pm EDT by Bruce Fisher

  Tags:  Big Island  

  

  When you visit Hawaii, regardless of the island you’re on, you’re going to hear some pidgin.  It might throw you off at first, but you’ll get used to it very quickly.

  Rule One: Even after you get comfortable with some of the idioms, DON’T TRY TO SPEAK PIDGIN TO LOCAL PEOPLE.  If you do, you’ll sound really silly and identify yourself as an ignorant tourist.

  The following might help you with some of the more basic pidgin terms that are used all the time by all of us who live in Hawaii, even if we’ve lived here for a relatively short period of time:

  •  Akamai
  Intelligent, smart, knowing what’s going on.

  •  Babooze
  Screwup, someone who does something really dumb.

  •  Brah or Bruddah
  As you would guess, it’s the local way of saying "brother" or "pal." You’ll hear it most often as, "Eh, brah!"

  •  Broke da mout’
  Delicious tasting.

  •   Buggah
  This could be a guy, girl, or thing.  Its connotation could be friendly or describe someone or something troublesome.

  •   Bumbye
  Later on; “by and by.”

  •   Bummahs
  "Bummer."  Expresses disappointment or commiseration.

  •   Chicken skin
  The bumps on your skin when you get the chills or an eerie feeling ("goose bumps").

  •   Da kine
  You will hear this more than any other term.  It’s a lazy way to replace words that can’t be remembered or are unknown while you are speaking.  Can literally mean anything and everything.

  •   Fo’ Real?
  Are you sure?  You’re not kidding?

  •   Give ‘um
  Go for it.  Try your hardest.

  •  Grind
  To eat, usually with gusto.

  •  Grinds
  Good food.

  •  Hana Hou
  One more time.  Do it again.  Encore.

  •  Hele On
  Let’s go.  Get moving.  Move on.

  •  Huhu
  Mad.  Frustrated.

  •  Kay Den
  Okay then, if that’s the way you want it.

  •   La dis; la dat
  Like this or like that.

  •   (What,) You Like Beef?
  Do you want to fight?

  •  Lolo
  Dumb.  Slow.  Crazy.

  •  Lua
  Bathroom.

  •  Moke
  Big, tough local guy.

  •   Okole
  Buttocks or butt.

  •  Pau
  Finished.  (You’ll be using this by the time you go home, and you may never get rid of it.)

  •  Shaka
  This is the hand gesture with the thumb and pinky extended.  It can be a greeting, a sign of acquiescence or a gesture meaning “hello.”  It’s always used in good spirit.

  •  Tita
  A very tough girl who flaunts it.

  •   Wassamattayou?
  As you would suspect, "What’s the matter with you?" or  "What’s your problem?"

  No need to memorize any of them, but you will become familiar with them as they are spoken by servers, merchants, concierges, or anybody else you encounter who lives in Hawaii.
  

  Posted by Jim Winpenny

   

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Hawaii Vacation

• 

  Visit Hilton Waikoloa Village Hotel

  Posted: March 18th, 2009, 8:43am EDT by Pua

  Tags:  Big Island vacation  

  Dear Best Hawaii vacation blog visitors,
  Remember our last post about the whales still hanging out around the Hawaiian Islands? We had such a wonderful time watching their playful games in the Pacific Ocean. This was a Humpback whale extravaganza during the later part of the 2009 whale season. Well, maybe that was really their last hooray, before leaving for Alaska because ever since Sunday we have not spotted the whales anymore. It's really odd to look at the peaceful ocean waters without seeing blowing spouts and swimming whales. We already miss the whales!
  
  
  When the whales had left, Keoki and I decided it's time for our annual visit to the Hilton Waikoloa Village at Waikoloa Beach Resort on the South Kohala Coast. We got a big surprise when trying to park our car for our visit to the Hilton Waikoloa, normally one of our favorite hotels to visit with family and friends for a fun day on the coast. If you want to spend your entire Kohala Coast vacation at the Hilton Waikoloa Village, make sure that you don't mind crowds and a disneyland atmosphere.
  
  
  When you love a peaceful stay in Hawaii, away from other tourists and resort living, then the Hilton is probably not for you but if you spend a family vacation near the Hilton Waikoloa, this Hawaii resort is a great place to visit and hang out for a day. A slow boat trip (choose a boat with a roof for protection from strong sun) or slow walk through the exquisite tropical setting and a nice lunch right at the dolphin lagoon, are among our favorites.
  
  
  We wrote about how much fun a visit at the Hilton Waikoloa can be, adults and children. When we did that, we also told you about the Hilton resort fee. You can't imagine our disappointment when we noticed with our visit to the Hilton Waikoloa Village that extra resort fees had nearly doubled from 2 years ago. Scroll down in this post for 2009 Hilton Waikoloa Village Resort fees.
  
  Well, we swallowed hard, paid the $15 self-parking fee and did our walk through the lobby to just have a good time. Here is what we noticed was different to the past years. Normally, the lobby hustled and bustled with visitors, not only with hotel guests but lots of Big Island visitors. A visit to the Hilton Waikoloa was always a special attraction for Big island visitors. We always assumed that the Hilton appreciated the extra business from all the outside visitors: visitors to Waikoloa Hilton Spa, shops for Hawaiian clothes, galleries and restaurants.
  
  
  Looks like the new Hilton resort fees are not a big incentive for guests or Big Island visitors to visit this wonderful Hawaii resort. On the opposite, those new fees must turn off quite a number of visitors. We noticed that the hotel was extremely quiet, resort boats and trains for transporting people between towers were empty, despite personnel assuring us that the hotel 'was' booked 92% due to a huge convention taking place.
  
  
  When talking to the front desk, we heard some good news that visitors can still book a day-room at the Hilton for $160/nt., from 11am - 7pm, which is a nice thing to do, when two or even three families can share the costs and the kids can use all the different water slides. Believe me. They love it and it's worthwhile the day room money + the parking fee!
  
  
  We were hanging out at the dolphin lagoon for quite some time. It's so much fun to watch those playful, friendly creatures. It's hard though to snap a nice photo of the dolphins. I was always a little too late. Anyways, one family, couple with two children, must have signed up for the dolphin quest program. We watched their entire program and asked one of the attendants what the cheapest program runs these days: 20min. with the dolphins is $205/per person. Yes, 1 minute $10! I was wondering whether these parents had to pay the full price for their kids.
  
  If you want to spend a vacation at the Hilton Waikoloa on the Big Island, you may expect the following fees and deposits are charged by the property upon service, check-in, or check-out:Valet parking: $21 per 24-hour period, Self parking: $15 per 24-hour period, Aloha Fun Pass: $26 per day.
  
  Now let's see what you get for your Aloha Fun Pass: In-room coffee Daily use of fitness center for two guests One hour daily use of tennis court Daily use of seaside putting course for two guests Self-parking Remember the good old days when parking at a hotel in Hawaii where you stayed as a guest was free? The hotel appreciated that you decided to spend your vacation there. And they even had free coffee at your room available. Nice gesture!
  
  The Aloha Fun Pass for $26 per day sounds like a good deal from the Hawaii Hilton Waikoloa Village for guests who love to work out daily at the fitness center or want to play frequently tennis. I don't know about the majority of guests who don't do either but definitely need the parking! Don't assume there is alternative parking nearby. There is none! There are only gated vacation rental condo resorts closeby. It looks like when Hawaii Hilton guests want to save money, they are better off not to buy the Aloha Fun Pass, when they look closer at this resort deal fee, as they save daily $11 when they pay for their car parking individually the $15/day.
  
  To tell you the truth I don't even know whether guests can turn down the Aloha Fun Pass at check-in. When I called guest service and asked what I need to spend at the resort to validate my parking fee, it was $50/per person at a restaurant! Well, the Waikoloa Marriott at least acknowledges any restaurant, banquet and luau visits and reduces their parking to $5! Good idea to keep your guests happy!
  
  
  Bottom line of our post: We still love to visit the Hawaii Hilton but would like to see the hotel opening up again to outside visitors and residents by a policy which considers the budget of regular Big Island visitor and asking feasible fees. If hotels like the Hilton ignore customers needs and wishes, Hawaii tourism will be challenged. What's your recent experience with the Hawaii resort fees in 2009. Wouldn't it be nice to hear that hotels will waive those, at least for 2009. Mahalo for your comments. Aloha, Pua Hawaii Vacations
  
  Related Articles
  
  Hawaii Resort Fees and Issue for your Hawaii Vacation
  Why rent a vacation rental in Hawaii?
  When to stay at a Hawaii Hotel?
  
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Hawaii Travel Guide

• 

  Take an Island Wine Country Tour on your Hawaii Vacation

  Posted: March 16th, 2009, 3:07pm EDT by Bruce Fisher

  Tags:  Big Island  

  

  So when you were planning this year’s vacation, you had your heart set on Hawaii, but your spouse was hoping to tour Wine Country — the Napa and Sonoma Valleys in California.  Hooray!  You prevailed.

  Okay, now that you’ve decided on Hawaii, how can you appease your spouse somewhat?  These islands in no way resemble Wine Country.  Most of the world’s grape growing is done in moderate climates; Hawaii’s climate is tropical.  But Hawaii does have higher elevations of volcanic mountains and ridges, which do support the growing of grapes.  Accordingly, Hawaii has two wineries – on the islands of Hawaii and Maui.  Both grow Symphony, the only grape raised here for winemaking.  Symphony is a cross between Muscat of Alexandria and Grenache Gris, and it yields wines that are very fruity, off dry to sweet, and great for quaffing on the beach.  You won’t find them in the cellars of wine connoisseurs around the world.

  The 20,000-acre tract that is ‘Ulupalakua Ranch on the leeward slopes of Haleakala at an elevation of slightly under 2,000 feet is made up of tiny rural communities, rolling green pastureland, great distinguished trees and majestic mountain vistas, with sublime seascapes below.  And, yes, you can enjoy the vistas on your way to a tour of the winery.  You will see it all on the road to Tedeschi Vineyards, which were established in 1974.  The first grapes were harvested in 1980, and in 1984 Tedeschi’s first grape product, Maui Brut, was released.

  Today the winery sells an assortment of wines made from grapes as well as several other specialty wines made from pineapple, passion fruit and even raspberries.

  Your first stop when you arrive at the winery will be the tasting room, where you can sample the various varieties of wines.  The winery also offers two free guided tours every day at 10:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m.  The guides are well versed in the history of the area and the ranch, and you’ll enjoy walking through the grounds where Hawaiian royalty once relaxed.  After the tour you’ll head back to the tasting room to buy a bottle of wine for lunch and maybe a few more to take with you.  For lunch all you need to do is walk across the street to the ‘Ulupalakua Ranch Store.

  On the Big Island, Volcano Winery produces local wines inspired by volcanic fire and the bounty of the island.  Tropical fruits like yellow guava and the exotic jaboticaba berry are blended with traditional wine grapes and transformed into creations that capture the area’s relaxed, laid-back atmosphere.

  For the more traditional palate, the winery offers wines made with the Symphony grape.  And there’s a Macadamia Nut Honey Wine, made from blossoms of the Macadamia Nut tree, which yields a sweet after-dinner treat that is uniquely Hawaiian.

  The winery’s staff does free tasting every day of the year from 10:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., and no appointment is necessary.

  Volcano Winery is at the 30-mile marker in Volcano, near the golf course.  It makes for a great side trip when you visit Hawaii Volcanoes National Park.

  So even if it ain’t the Napa and Sonoma Valleys, winery tours in Hawaii still are fun and tasty.  If you’d like to work in a tour of either winery or both, pick an agent from the Hawaii-Aloha Web site home page, or call 1-800-843-8771.   We’ll work it into your vacation schedule for you.

  Posted by Jim Winpenny

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  Some of the best stuff to do in Hawaii is free
  Visit a Secret Wonder while in Maui
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Hawaii Vacation Advice

• 

  Stargazing Q&A With Hawaii Astronomy Expert

  Posted: March 16th, 2009, 12:21pm EDT by sheila

  Tags:  Big Island See Do  

  

  Each time I visit Hawaii, I am always blown away by the amount of stars I see at night. I absolutely love to gaze at Hawaii’s star-filled night sky.

  I’m really just a stargazing novice. I enjoy and appreciate the vast amount of stars I see, but that’s really the extent of it. So, I’ve been wanting to learn more about astronomy in Hawaii for quite a long time and I was recently put in touch with the Maui Astronomy Club President, Becky Sydney, who graciously answered all my novice questions about Hawaii stargazing. I’m very pleased to be able to share Becky’s expert insight into Hawaii’s night sky with you. Below are the highlights from my interview with Becky Sydney.

  Sheila: There are some major observatories on Mauna Kea and Haleakala. What makes Hawaii such a hot spot for astronomy observatories? 

  Becky Sydney:  For Astronomers, the best ingredients for observing the night sky are: no light pollution, good year-long weather, high elevation and star visibility.  Hawaii meets all this criteria very well with the exception of light pollution, which seems to be an increasing enigma on the islands.

  I meet many visitors from the mainland and abroad who tell me they can’t see any stars at home because of lights. So it is no surprise that when they see the stars over Maui for the first time, they are mesmerized by how many they see and how bright!  Ah, the things we take for granted.

  Mauna Kea [Big Island] and Haleakala [Maui] enjoy nice weather most of the year. Both have high elevations, Mauna Kea at 14,000ft and Haleakala at 10,000ft. Positioned at 21 degrees N Latitude. from these mountain tops, you can not only see the Northern Hemisphere stars but also see most of the Southern Hemisphere stars too making Hawaii the only state in the United States that sees the North Star and the Southern Cross.  Of all the stars the planet Earth can view, Hawaii can see over 80% of them! Once again, the only state in the USA where this is possible.  These are just some of the reasons why Hawaii is the perfect place to observe the Universe.

  

  Photo of Keck-2 telescope on Mauna Kea. Photo Credit: Paul Hirst by way of Creative Commons

  Sheila: Andy and I like to go to the top of Haleakala on Maui early in the morning while it’s still very dark. From there, we’ve seen loads of what we call shooting stars. Are these really shooting stars or something else? Is there an optimal time for watching shooting stars?  

  Becky Sydney:  Describing what a shooting star is…well, it kinda takes the romance out of it. Just think, that beautiful shooting star you saw…which meant so much and was so symbolic to you, as if the Heavens were speaking in their own language…with a bright gleaming vapor trail…How awesome it was to see that fleeting star fall right out of the sky for YOU.

  Well, that is pretty cool but just as equally cool but in a different way, is knowing that it’s really not a shooting star you see, but a piece of space debris, no bigger than a grain of sand, vaporizing in Earth’s atmosphere! Wow! Isn’t it amazing that a speck of dust or rock or metal can make such a grand exit right over your head!

  Scientifically speaking, “As a particle enters Earth’s atmosphere, it collides with gas atoms and molecules. The particle becomes wrapped in a glowing sheath of heated air and vaporized material boiled off its own surface. Meteors become visible at altitudes between 50 and 75 miles, with faster particles typically shining at greater heights. Many of the faster, brighter meteors may leave behind a train — a dimly glowing trail that persists for many seconds or, more rarely, minutes. Larger debris may create a fireball — a spectacular meteor bright enough to outshine even Venus. Occasionally, a fireball will fragment; this event is accompanied by bright flares and even “sparks” thrown a short distance from the meteor’s main trail. Such a fireball is called a bolide.” per this article on meteors from Astronomy.com.  

  So, however you want to see it, shooting stars are pretty amazing.

  A meteor shower is a just that…a shower of meteors or shooting stars. This is caused by planet Earth plowing into the wake of space debris left behind by orbiting comets. Comets shed material (dust, gas, ice, etc.) as they orbit the Sun and when Earth passes through the debris, many particles burn up in the atmosphere, and look like stars falling from the sky. Some meteor showers record over 100 meteors an hour!  

  The most famous meteor shower of the year falls on August 11 -12 every year; it’s called the Perseid Meteor Shower because meteors ‘appear’ to radiate from the constellation Perseus. The particles you see burn up actually come from Comet Swift-Tuttle, a comet which passes by Earth every 130 years and leaves a dirty trail that the Earth passes through every year. The best time to watch the Perseids and most other meteor showers, is after midnight, when the constellation is higher in the sky and the angle of debris entry is best.  Be sure to get away from city lights too or you’ll see nothing. I think that’s why people see more shooting stars in Hawaii than the mainland — there’s less light pollution.

  For a list of yearly meteor showers, check out this Wikipedia Web site: [en.wikipedia.org]

  Sheila:  What are the next major celestial events over the next year or two that you can see with the naked eye in Hawaii.  Where would you advise that visitors go to watch these events?
  

  Becky Sydney:  Probably the most exciting event for Hawaii this year will be the July 22, 2009 total eclipse of the sun! However, Hawaii is barely in the “eclipse zone” and may only see a small effect; nevertheless, it will be a great spectacle event. Click this link for a complete list of Solar Eclipses and here are the descriptions of the types of Solar eclipses

  • Partial Solar Eclipse- Moon’s penumbral (outer) shadow traverses Earth (umbral and antumbral shadows completely miss Earth)
  • Annular Solar Eclipse- Moon’s antumbral shadow traverses Earth (Moon is too far from Earth to completely cover the Sun)
  • Total Solar Eclipse- Moon’s umbral shadow traverses Earth (Moon is close enough to Earth to completely cover the Sun)
  • Hybrid Solar Eclipse- Moon’s umbral and antumbral shadows traverse Earth (eclipse appears annular and total along different sections of its path). Hybrid eclipses are also known as annular-total eclipses.

  We just missed a Prenumbral Lunar Eclipse in February, but there is yet another one on July 7, 2009, though it will be less impressive. For a complete list of Lunar Eclipses check out this list. Here’s a description of each type of eclipse:

  • Prenumbral eclipse - the moon passes through Earth’s prenumbral (outer) shadow.
  • Partial eclipse - the Moon passes through Earth’s umbral (inner) shadow. These are easy to see with the unaided eye.
  • Total eclipse - the entire Moon passes through Earth’s umbral shadow. the Moon can turn orange, red, or dark brown.

  The best places to see these events in Hawaii are in dark, clear areas. Mauna Kea [Big Island] or Haleakala [Maui] would be the BEST view points because these sites are high above the clouds and have the clearest visibility. On the beaches wouldn’t be bad either as long as the Sun and Moon aren’t blocked by trees or mountains at the time of the event.

  Sheila: Any advice or other Web sites you would recommend for visitors to review before they go stargazing in Hawaii?
  

  Becky Sydney: The most important thing when stargazing is be comfortable. This includes being dressed for all kinds of weather. At night, the temperatures are much cooler [especially in the higher elevations], even in Hawaii, so one must keep warm in order to stay outside to observe for hours. Take a sleeping bag or some blankets and lay down, with your feet pointed South, and watch how the stars slowly drift from left to right. Bring some hot chocolate or warm drinks to make if fun and to stay warm.

  Secondly, you must find a dark, clear and open spot to see the most stars. Lights, fire or car headlights will ruin your night vision and scatter light into the atmosphere that blocks the stars. Also, take note of the Moon Phase - the bigger the Moon, the less stars you see. [Here's a link to determining the Moon Phase in Hawaii.] Stargazing during a Full Moon is very difficult; only a few stars can be seen.

  It’s also good to bring Star Map or a planisphere to identify the stars you see.  Use only red light flashlights that don’t interfere with night vision as much. White light will damage your night vision for up to 40 minutes.

  Here are some of my favorite stargazing Web sites:

  • Stargazing tips: [www.geocities.com]
  • Hawaii Planetarium: [www.bishopmuseum.org]
  • Comets & Meteors: [www.ne.jp]
  • Space Station Flybys: [spaceweather.com]
  • Hawaii Astronomy: [www.ifa.hawaii.edu]/
  • Hubble Photos: [www.spaceimages.com]
  • Astronomy Dictionary: [www.ccastronomy.org]
  • Astronomy Picture of the Day:  [apod.nasa.gov]
  • Eclipse Info: [www.shadowandsubstance.com]/
  • Fun Astronomy: [www.starhustler.com]/
  • Planets: [www.nineplanets.org]

  Sheila:  You mentioned that light pollution is a challenge for stargazing. Can you tell us a little more about that and what’s being done to lessen it?
  

  Becky Sydney: Light pollution is the brightening of the night sky from street lights and other man-made sources, making the stars and planets nearly impossible to see. Mauna Kea, on the [Big] island of Hawaii, is home to the world’s largest optical telescope, the Keck Observatory. Astronomers there took the initiative to help reduce the amount of light pollution island-wide by replacing the bright street lights with Low Pressure Sodium lamps, which help reduce sky glow. The modification did help somewhat, but light is light and the less you have the better.

  The observatories atop Haleakala on the island of Maui are currently challenged by this scattered light problem, too and have started to implement the same light reduction initiative as the Big Island.

  Mahalo to Becky for taking the time to answer all these questions and with such great detail! Mahalo also to Jocelyn on twitter as SheratonMaui who put me in contact with Becky!

  So, what do you think? Are you a budding Hawaii astronomy fan? Are you excited about stargazing in Hawaii? Would you plan a visit to Hawaii based on a meteor shower or eclipse?

  ** Mahalo for reading. Do you love Go Visit Hawaii? If you’ve not already done so, please consider voting for us in the “Best Destination Blog” category at the Lonely Planet awards. Click here to vote. **

  © Go Visit Hawaii - Republication of this entire post is prohibited without prior permission. Using extracts of less than 100 words are permitted with full attribution and link back to GoVisitHawaii.com.

  

Hawaii Travel Guide

• 

  Avoiding the Parking Problem on your Hawaii Vacation

  Posted: March 13th, 2009, 3:00pm EDT by Bruce Fisher

  Tags:  Big Island  

  

  There are good reasons for renting a car on your Hawaii vacation.  Even if you are part of a group that provides transportation to and from most of the venues on your itinerary, you’ll probably want to go off and explore on your own.  Public transportation is pretty grim on the “outer” islands – Kauai, Maui, Molokai, Lanai and the Big Island.  On the other hand, if you’re staying in Waikiki, you can walk to just about all the shopping and entertainment venues, but Oahu’s a big island with many, many attractions away from Waikiki.

  Especially on Oahu, the strongest argument against renting a car is the parking hassle.  Parking spaces are becoming harder and harder to find in Downtown Honolulu and in Waikiki, and the private lots are getting really expensive.  But you can still find free spaces or spaces with reasonable rates if you check around.

  Here are some general tips you can make note of:

  There are about 750 free parking stalls in Kapiolani Park lots near the bandstand, the Natatorium, the Waikiki Shell and the tennis courts.  Hundreds of additional free parking spots are available on the makai (ocean) side of Kalakaua Avenue in the park and along the Ala Wai Canal.

  Street parking is free, even at metered stalls, on Saturdays, Sundays and Holidays.

  Restaurants that offer validated parking for the price of a meal and valet service at multi-plex movies all amount to free parking.

  Restaurant Row parking is free with merchant validation.  Ala Moana Center and the Ward Centers both offer free parking.

  Downtown, there are several private lots, but municipal lots or street parking are your best choices.  Some suggestions:

  Marks Garage: Chaplain Lane between Bethel and Nuuanu.  $3 per half hour, $8 flat rate before 3 p.m., $5 flat rate after 3 p.m. and weekends.

  Beretania Nuuanu Lot: Nuuanu between Beretania and Chaplin Lane. $3 per half hour, $7 flat rate before 3 p.m., $5 flat rate after 4 p.m., $4 flat rate on weekends.

  The following are the most affordable Downtown parking lots:

  Municipal Parking Garages’ first two hours are 75¢ per 1/2 hr, $1.50 1/2 hr thereafter.  After 5 p.m., 50¢ per ½-hour or $3 max.

  •       Kukui Plaza:
 Kukui St. between Fort and Nuuanu.
  •       Alii Place:
 Alakea between King and Hotel.
  •       Chinatown Gateway: Bethel between King and Hotel.
  •       Hale Pauahi:
 Beretania St. between Maunakea and River.
  •       Harbor Court:
 Bethel St. between Nimitz and Merchant.
  •       Harbor Village:
 Nimitz Hwy. between River and Kekaulike (meters)
  •       Kekaulike Courtyard:
 Maunakea between Nimitz & King
  •       Marin Tower: Smith between Nimitz & Marin
  •       Smith–Beretania:
 Beretania St. between Nuuanu & Smith
  •       Metered Street Parking: $1.50 per hour.  Have change handy.  Free after 6 p.m.

  •       Most Private Garages offer $3.00-$5.00 flat rates evenings and weekends.

  If you have other questions about driving in Hawaii, pick an agent from the Hawaii-Aloha. Web site  (hawaii-aloha.com), or call 1-800-843-8771.

  Posted by Jim Winpenny

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• 

  A Very Interesting Historical Attraction For Your Hawaii Vacation

  Posted: March 5th, 2009, 2:56pm EST by Bruce Fisher

  Tags:  Big Island  

  

  It sounds like a kids’ game today, but in Ancient Hawaii, when kapu (taboos) were the law of the land, it was a desperate race for survival.   It was easy then to commit a capital crime.  You might have wandered onto land reserved for only chiefs.  You might have eaten forbidden fruit or meat.  The penalty: Death.  Your only hope was to elude your pursuers and make your way to the nearest pu`uhonua, or place of refuge.  Once you got there, you would be absolved by a priest and freed to leave.  Defeated warriors and non-combatants could also find refuge here during times of battle. The grounds just outside the Great Wall that encloses the puʻuhonua were home to several generations of powerful chiefs.

  One such place today is among the ten top visitor attractions (#7) in Hawaii.
  
  Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau National Historical Park – known formerly as City of Refuge National Historical Park — is a National Historical Park on the west coast of the Big Island of Hawaii.  It preserves the site where vacationers visit and still feel the spirit of peace and forgiveness that continues to surround and bless this special place.

  The 420-acre park includes the puʻuhonua itself and a complex of archeological sites including temple platforms, royal fishponds, sledding tracks, and some coastal village sites.  The Hale o Keawe temple and several thatched structures have been reconstructed.

  There are two major sections, the Palace Grounds and the Place of Refuge.  The Great Wall separates the two.

  There are walking tours of the park or you can go it alone.  Either way, you’ll begin at the Palace Grounds, the home of the ruling chief, which is surrounded by a beautiful coconut palm grove overlooking Hōnaunau Bay.  The nearby beach was reserved strictly for the royalty.  You’ll see samples of canoes carved from koa wood with lashings of coconut fibers.  All of their construction was done with the materials native to the land and tools used in the day. Along the path you’ll also see models of the different types of houses and storage sheds which sat on the palace grounds.

  you will come upon an original gamestone (papamu) that was used in the game of Hawaiian checkers (konane).  Game pieces were made out of white coral and black lava for the opposing players.  The object of the game was not to take all of the other players’ pieces as in the common checkers game, but to be the player who would make the last move.  Bowls, carved right into the huge stone, were used to extract salt from seawater.  The royal canoe landing area was kapu to all commoners, a law that was announced by a kiʻi (small wooden statue) such as the one you’ll see in the water. 

  The huge rock Great Wall was built sometime in the 1500s.  It’s constructed of dry masonry and fit together like a jigsaw puzzle.

  Inside the puʻuhonua is where, once the fleeing petitioners arrived, the kahuna pule (priest) would be obligated to offer them sanctuary and absolution, under pain of his own death should he refuse to do so.  Often the petitioner would be freed within hours to resume a normal life.  This was not a place teeming with hardened criminals.  This was a sacred place on which life began anew for many ancient Hawaiians.

  Your walk will take you past a bunch of carved statues.  Two of the ki’i stand together watching over Keoneʻele Cove.  Only royalty were allowed to use the cove. Other carved images stand on the platform of Hale o Keawe.  As you work your way back to the Visitor Center you’ll walk past the royal fishpond.  Fish that were caught exclusively for the chiefs were placed in this pond.

  It’s a really interesting place to visit.  Plan to spend a couple of hours, bring your camera and wear comfortable walking shoes.

  If you’d like us to help you work Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau National Historical Park into your vacation plans, pick an agent from the Hawaii-Aloha Web site, or call 1-800-843-8771.

  Posted by Jim Winnpenny

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  Visit An Almost Secret Wonder in Hawaii
  Inside Haleakala National Park
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Hawaii Vacation

• 

  Mauna Kea Summit Adventure

  Posted: February 20