Category: Hawaii Travel & Vacation Info

Have you ever had a little Lomilomi? According to “Auntie” Margaret, the Hawaiian word lomilomi (pronounced low me low me) means going to and from. A holistic healing tradition beyond simple massage, lomilomi is a popular modality practiced throughout the world, especially in Hawaii, Japan and Europe. Auntie Margaret (August 21, 1916 ~ December 28, […]

Moonrise can be a beautiful alternative to Sunrise on Oahu. I have the same conversation over and over with my friends who live on the Leeward /Honolulu side: Me: oh how I wish I was over here more often. I so miss seeing the sun set over Waikiki. Them: We never get to see the […]

One small corner of Oahu is only accessible on foot: Kaena Point. Roads from both directions end at this westernmost edge of the island, making it impossible to drive completely around Oahu. This seclusion preserves one of the last intact dune ecosystems in the main Hawaiian islands. A Sacred Place for Hawaiians, a Sanctuary for […]

There was a time not too long ago when Saddle Road Hawaii was a forbidden trek: a route banned by car rental companies and shunned by guidebooks.  But recent improvements have made this stretch of Big Island Highway a pleasant drive, and a great way to cut down travel time between Hilo and Kona.  But […]

The Pali Overlook provides a scenic — and windy! — view of the windward side of the island of Oahu. It consistently ranks as one of the top attractions for visitors. Even with recent parking fees, it’s a bargain. The word “pali” means “cliff” in Hawaii. So Kauaii’s stunning coastline is called “Na Pali” because […]

Explore the ancient Royal Coconut Coast in Kauai with a stop at Kapaa Town. Kapaa (pronounced ka pah ah) is on the east side of the island of Kauai. In 1777 (Captain Cook’s time) the town was not populated, according to the book Rainbows Over Kapaa by Bill Fernandez. There is no mention of Kapaa, […]

If you head north on Hawaii Island (the Big Island), you’ll reach Waimea. This rural area is scenic and charming. And for many, it’s a can’t miss stop when adventuring in Hawaii. But the Waimea elevation brings you away from the ocean, and it’s a bit of a drive to reach. Is it worth it? […]

Kauai’s most popular places to dine, shop or see, as chosen by island residents. Every year the local paper puts out the People’s Choice Awards. Residents have several months to cast their votes and the paper compiles the 100 best places on Kauai. This is by residents for residents but I thought I’d share some […]

When you think of Hawaii, you probably first imagine its tranquil beaches and glistening sunsets. But once you’re here, you’ll be awestruck by another sight: the towering Hawaii Mountains.  And most of them are begging to be explored, either from their valley or their peaks (or maybe both). Many states have mountains, but none are […]

When is the best time to visit Hawaii? It depends on three things. (1) the best weather in Hawaii The first time I visited Hawaii was for a conference, so I had no control over the timing (and was not paying the bill). When I wanted to return, I wondered about the best time to […]

Hawaii’s exotic plants provide a natural umbrella as they collect the morning mist. On my walk across campus today, I could see light rain falling in the sunlight of a clearing ahead, however I was dry – protected by leaves from trees and very large plants. One of the most interesting “trees” in Hawaii is […]

A quick, heavy downpour splashed outside my windows this morning as I dressed for work. Although I carry an umbrella in my backpack, I doubted I’d use it. Instead, I reached for my hoodie – the lightweight hooded sweatshirt that protects me both from Hawaii’s frequent mists and overly-enthusiastic air conditioning. By the time I […]