As a local, I tend to avoid the frenetic tourism of Waikiki like the plague. One of my favorite ways is by spending the day relaxing on one of the many Windward beaches. I recently wanted a more invigorating form of relaxation so a friend and I decided to try a five-hour guided tour to the Mokes, Lanikai’s twin islands, with a…
By: Maria Kanai I recently had the opportunity to visit Germaine’s Luau on Oahu with my husband. It was a welcome break from the holiday craziness to enjoy an evening with just the two of us. I’ve been a tourist to Hawaii a few times when I was a child – my father was an avid fan of the ocean and Hawaiian culture – so I’ve attended several luaus before, but this was my first time at Germaine’s. We drove ourselves there, but it seems most people booked through Roberts Hawaii as I saw groups of visitors arriving via the signature green busses. We got there at 5:30 p.m., but the luau didn’t start until around 6:30 p.m. We had plenty to do to kill time though: we had the plumeria package, which meant we had three free alcoholic and…
By Ruth Blum Want to go kayaking but have never been before? Thanks to the friendly staff at Twogood Kayaks, we’ve got you covered! Here are the top ten tips to remember when you head out on one of their exclusive kayaking tours. Tie/strap down all your equipment. You don’t want your snorkeling gear,…
Photo by Natalie Schack Festive, local Christmas Cards to Give This Yuletide Season BY: NATALIE SCHACK Little notes and trinkets that let people know you’re thinking about them can speak serious volumes. That especially goes for when you’re living it up in Hawaii during this time of year, when your frostbitten friends back home may…
Leonard’s on Kapahulu Avenue. Has the best Malasadas. BY: NATALIE SCHACK There’s so much to see in Hawaii, from the majestic mountain ranges scraping their green tops against the clear, blue sky, to the wild, cresting waves, rushing in and out on the shore like some mesmerizing azure dance. It’s a beautiful feast for your…
BY: MARIA KANAI Holiday shopping is far from ho-ho-ho hum when you’re visiting the island of O’ahu. Some of the best boutiques in Hawai’i are located here, and you’ll feel great knowing you’re shopping local and supporting small businesses. Here are our must-visit shops where we promise you’ll find something for everyone on your list: significant others, parents, kids, friends and of course, don’t forget something for yourself! 1. Roberta Oaks It’s official – aloha shirts are, and have always been, a fashion staple in our closet. And, while you might be familiar with old-school, luxurious style of well-known brands like Tommy Bahama or Tori Richards, we have a soft spot for the oh-so retro, fun vibes found at Roberta Oaks. This local boutique in downtown Honolulu combines colorful, fun prints with a modern, closely fitted silhouette. ♥Perfect for: Your…
Are you ready to challenge your palate? When it comes to cuisine, the fun begins when you start trying dishes a few steps outside of your comfort zone. Hawaii is filled with many different foods from a wide range of cultures. Although some menu items might sound a little strange – like everything else, you…
The new year is here! And aside from setting personal, health and business goals, it’s also time to start solidifying those travel plans for 2018. Sure, you could visit Hawaii any year, but we’ve got the perfect “excuse” (in case you needed one or more) to make this year the year to pack your bags…
The Lunar New Year – or Chinese New Year – is right around the corner and in Hawaii, it’s a pretty big deal. From block party celebrations to household traditions, the coming of the New Year gathers people together as they wish one another good fortune and honor ancestors. The date of the Lunar New…
Read More Travel Tips | Book a Tour From the way we speak (Pidgin English) to the things we eat, Hawaii is known for being unique in many different ways. And while Hawaii is part of the United States, there are a few things beyond its size and distance that make it stand apart from…