Hana Hou Hilo bustles with energy. Once an antiques and collectibles store focused on Hawaiiana and Oceania art and accessories, the boutique in sleepy Hilo town now sells an assortment of locally made goods, curated jewelry and apparel, as well as zero-waste, sustainably made products. And it all started with a wahine (woman) and her […]
There’s a special place in our hearts for okazuya, an old-school Japanese delicatessen that serves ready-to-eat and takeout dishes. The concept of okazuya has been around for decades and is steeped in history and tradition. Hefty portions of fried chicken, thick noodles full of flavor, carefully packed cone sushi and handmade musubi often line the
Kauaʻi may be the oldest of the main Hawaiian Islands—but it’s also one of the most beloved by visitors. Everything about the island—its lushness, its uncrowded beaches, its laid-back vibe—makes for an idyllic Hawaiʻi vacation. But there are things that are unique to the Garden Isle—things you won’t find anywhere else in Hawaiʻi. Read More: Our
In an island paradise known for stereotypical tiki drinks like the mai tai and lava flow, there’s nothing more refreshing than a locally produced libation made with Maui-grown ingredients. Join us on a spirited exploration from the slopes of Haleakalā to the heart of Kīhei, unveiling six varieties of beer, wine and liquor all crafted
Summer is one of the best times to visit Hawaiʻi. The days are longer, the weather is perfect—and there’s so much to do. From lounging on golden beaches to walking through botanical gardens, there’s already a lot to do in the Islands. And then there are the summer events and festivals. If you’re planning a
If you haven’t been to the North Shore—or haven’t been in awhile—this blog is for you. We ventured out to the northern part of Oʻahu, which has long lured visitors with its winter surf and beach-y towns, to find new things to do—and eat. Here are nine new things you need to put on your
There may not be any national parks on Kauaʻi, but the island does boast five—yes, five—state parks with some of the island’s best beaches, trails and vistas. One of the most popular is Kōkeʻe State Park, perched 3,600 feet above sea level on the island’s west side. It’s truly a hiker’s paradise, with 45 miles
Whether you’re new to the world of surfing or looking to improve your skills, the Jamie O’Brien School of Surf lets you experience it at one of the world’s most famous beaches. Located in the heart of Waikīkī, the School of Surf is the latest venture of North Shore native and professional surfer Jamie O’Brien.
From fresh fresh flower blooms and verdant valleys to mild temperatures and less crowds, springtime is a severely underrated season in Hawaiʻi. Here’s proof why this time of year is great for visiting the Islands and these activities will help you spring into the season. 1. Experience Spring Foliage New flower blooms are ubiquitous for
Many of us grew up spending our hanabata days eating crack seed after school—dried, preserved fruits and nuts that range from salty, sour to sweet. Locals know that the best crack seed stores around town are those mom-and-pop stores that have been in business in decades. Case in point: Lin’s Hawaiian Snacks. Like other things
Mother Nature giveth and Mother Nature taketh away, such is the case with the heart-shaped rock that once sat adjacent to the famous Nākālele Blowhole on Maui. Both naturally occurring phenomena were born from years of erosion, which is also the environmental factor that caused one of them to break. Following rumors that a tourist
Former president Barack Obama is the only U.S. president born in Hawaiʻi—and the Islands are still a special place for him. At least once a year—and often more, now that he’s no longer in the White House—he and his family vacation here, often on Oʻahu where he has a home. Here are some of his
