This story was originally published on Dec. 15, 2018 and updated on Aug. 6, 2025. Oʻahu’s iconic North Shore is dotted with vibrant beach towns, each with their own historic sites and unique personalities. From famous surf breaks and picturesque beaches to top-notch food trucks and hole-in-the-wall bakeries, these local neighborhoods are all worth […]
With year-round sunshine and a warm, tropical climate, it’s no surprise the Hawaiian Islands are a top travel destination. These conditions also make the Islands a great place to grow a variety of crops—including some that can’t be grown anywhere else in the U.S. Hawaiʻi is the only state in the country where cacao—the plant
Celebrating hula along with traditional Hawaiian arts, the 48th annual Prince Lot Hula Festival is taking place this weekend, July 19-20, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Frank F. Fasi Civic Grounds in Honolulu, Oʻahu. The festival was founded in 1978 to recognize Prince Lot Kapuāiwa, who ruled as Kamehameha V. He
From epic hiking trails to incredible vistas, state parks in Hawaiʻi are diverse in beauty and terrain, offering unique activities. These are the five standout state parks in Hawaiʻi that our readers love the most. 1. Waimea Canyon State Park, Kaua‘i Nicknamed “The Grand Canyon of the Pacific,” Waimea Canyon stretches more than 10 miles
It’s well known that the Hawaiian Islands are dotted with exciting activities and adventures, and seeing these breathtaking islands from high above has always topped my list of can’t-miss experiences. And now that I’ve done it, what can I say? My helicopter adventure took me over the legendary Nāpali Coast, which stretches along the remote
After the fire that devastated Lahaina on Aug. 8, 2023, the West Maui community is still in the process of healing and rebuilding. The unprecedented disaster left deep scars, not only in the landscape but also in the hearts of its residents. In the immediate aftermath, conflicting messages emerged regarding tourism. Some locals urged travelers
*This story was originally published on July 31, 2017. It’s easy to forget that it’s not summer year-round in Hawaiʻi. With our unwavering tropical weather, Instagram-ready beaches and lack of snow, seasons such as fall and spring are simply terms used to label school semesters. There are however, subtle differences between the summer and
Hawai‘i, the most expensive U.S. State to live in, according to the world population review, can be an expensive vacation destination, too. But with some insider tips, you can significantly reduce the cost of your tripand still check it off your bucket list. There are plenty of affordable (or free!) ways to enjoy the islands,
Maui is known for its golden shores, from Mākena to Kāʻanapali. But the beauty of the Valley Isle extends beyond its gorgeous beaches, all the way to its tallest mountain. Upcountry Maui is a peaceful region marked by pastures, rolling hills, a sea of purple jacaranda trees and panoramic views. Among it all, you’ll discover
Every year May 1 marks Lei Day in Hawaiʻi. It’s a tribute to the iconic Hawaiian lei, a beautiful symbol of aloha that is so tightly woven in Hawaiian culture. Originating in the 1920s during a period of steamship travel to the Islands, Lei Day has blossomed into a beloved tradition. Throughout the Islands, festivals
It’s 9 a.m. in Hale‘iwa on O‘ahu’s North Shore and surfers, paddlers and visitors are already hitting the beach and surf shops. But there’s another side to the world’s surfing capital: Tucked back from the main road, behind eateries and a row of palm trees, is the nonprofit Mālama Loko Ea, which has been restoring
Situated at the foot of the Koʻolau Mountains on Oʻahu’s Windward Side, Hoʻomaluhia Botanical Garden spans 400 beautiful acres. Opened in 1982, the garden is the youngest and largest botanical garden owned and operated by the city and county of Honolulu. The property features six tropical gardens—which are inspired by geographical regions—and it also boasts
