Hawaii Vacation Blog

Did you know Hawaii is about to explode on the chocolate scene? I didn’t either — until I took a factory tour at Chocolate Factory! It all started with a busy Mom (me) trying to find things to do with her children over holiday break. So, when a discounted chocolate factory tour popped-up in my research, […]

There are lots of reasons Secret Hawaii Tours keeps it small. Among them? Our guests deserve a more intimate and personalized experience than the typical big Hawaii bus tour.  But, now there’s another reason you may want to avoid cramming into a big bus while on vacation in Hawaii — many communities are outlawing them. […]

When I first moved to Hawaii, I thought all Hawaii coffee came from Kona on the Big Island. But, turns out, I was wrong — REALLY wrong! There’s actually a coffee plantation on Oahu, Kauai, and Maui. Some offer tours, while others are a great chance to taste truly fresh coffee.   Here’s a look at […]

During my last trip to Kauai, we took an “off-ramp” we hadn’t taken before but had always wanted to explore — the small road to Hanapepe Town.  I was originally intrigued by the town when I saw its slogan, “Hawaii’s Biggest Little Town.” What could that possibly mean!? Well, one stroll through the town, and […]

Every time I drive the Highway toward , I glance at the sign that reads, “Queen Emma Summer Palace.” But, until now, something’s always stopped me from turning into the property. This time, though, I made the effort to visit this charming Victorian Era home (maybe because the venue offered free admission that day), and […]

One of the many reasons I love Kauai is because I always discover a new and exciting place to explore no matter how many times I’ve been there! And, my recent trip to the Garden Isle was no different. Except THIS time, I got to discover a hidden cave system on Kauai that’s DEFINITELY off-the-beaten-path. […]

OK — so, you only have a limited time on Kauai, and you’re wondering what activities to book. Should we go horseback riding in Poipu or kayaking on the Wailua River? Should we relax at Salt Pond State Park or rent a 4 X 4 and go exploring? I get it — there are so many things […]

Have you ever wondered: When do sharks know humans are in the water? How do they sense their prey? How small is the smallest Hawaii shark? Anytime you jump in the ocean surrounding Hawaii, you’re sharing the water with sharks. So, it’s important you know as much about them as possible. Here are 12 Hawaii […]

As he usually does every Christmas holiday, President Obama chose to come back to his roots here in Hawaii. I always love to hear about where he goes — what kinds of things can impress the President?! This year, President Obama chose to visit one of my favorite places, Shangri La, Center for Islamic Arts and […]

I was in line at Long’s this afternoon and noticed a sweet older lady buying some mochi — and, that immediately tipped-off the cashier, who asked her if she’s doing that for New Years. It made me realize something I love so much about this place — we really are a melting pot of traditions. […]

There are few things more spectacular than seeing flowing lava from an active volcano on the Big Island in Hawaii. BUT, if you suffer from asthma or other lung issues, you MAY want to reconsider hiking to the flow. According to the Hawaii Tribune Herald, vog (volcanic fog) doesn’t necessarily cause asthma, but it can […]

Thinking of visiting Hawaii in January? Read this first! From mid-December through the first week in January, visitors flock to the islands. And, it’s no surprise why — when the rest of the mainland is freezing, we have what everyone is looking for: A respite from the cold.  But, when the kids get back to […]