Hawaii Vacation Blog

Winter hours begin today for seven state parks on Oahu. This notice caused me to question what hours other parks have, and whether the overnight closures affect beaches. First, the easy part. Seven parks on Oahu have entrance gates that are open from 7 a.m.to 6:45 pm. during winter months. These parks are: Keaiwa Heiau […]

When you see any of the islands of Hawaii from a boat, you get an entirely different perspective than on land. The Na Pali Coast on the island of Kauai is one of the most breathtaking and awe-inspiring natural wonders on Earth. Soaring emerald cliffs plunge dramatically into the turquoise depths of the Pacific Ocean, […]

A Waikiki shopping center recalls Hawaii’s royal past in architecture and action. King’s Village looks like a castle complex lined with shops. Along the walls, plaques tell the story of the kings who once ruled this island nation. To be honest, I walked past it several times thinking it was the most elaborate Burger King […]

Sure, you can get bacon, ham or sausage with breakfast in Hawaii. But the menu also includes spam and often hot dogs. Not just any hot dogs, bright red ones. The bright red hot dogs are a local favorite. I hear some are popular in other parts of the mainland, but I had never seen […]

If you’re lucky enough to receive a lei while in Hawaii, you’ll soon be left with a strand of withering flowers. So, many visitors wonder what to do with old leis. We’re here to help! Before you don your strand of sweet flowers, read this and plan what to do with it once its life […]

Many who travel to Hawaii come with the intent of getting tattooed while visiting. Hawaii’s tattooing roots run deep and it is a wonderful lifetime reminder of not only the beauty of our islands but the deep cultural heritage of the ancient art of tatau’. There are a few things a visitor should keep in […]

To the untrained eye, shave ice and snow cones may appear to be one and the same: frozen treats topped with colorful syrups, beckoning on a hot summer day. However, beneath their similar appearances lies a world of distinction, a tale of two frozen delights with unique origins, textures, and cultural significance. First, the flavors […]

Haupia, a traditional Hawaiian dessert, is more than just a culinary delight; it’s a symphony of flavors and textures, a testament to the ingenuity of Hawaiian cuisine, and a symbol of the islands’ rich cultural heritage. Born from the bounty of the coconut palm, haupia embodies the essence of simplicity and elegance. Its preparation is […]

A song to get in your head during your Waikiki vacation. And it’s a GOOD thing. I think I’ve heard all the jokes about the ABC stores in Waikiki, because I know I made most of them the first few weeks I lived in Waikiki. And my guests started up about by day 1+. Just […]

Have you heard the story about Mark Twain and “The Grand Canyon of the Pacific”? If you think you know the real story, read on. “I have visited, a great many years ago, the Sandwich Islands-that peaceful land, that beautiful land, that far-off home of profound repose, and soft indolence, and dreamy solitude, where life […]

Of all the attractions available in Waikiki, one of the most popular is the free fireworks display each Friday evening from the Lagoon at the Hilton Hawaiian village. The fireworks show is a popular tradition that has been going on since 1988. It is a great way to celebrate Aloha Friday and enjoy the beautiful […]

“Choke spinner dolphins playing in Waimea Bay.” If you’re not from Hawaii, you may see this online, which may sound like a direction to abuse wildlife. Who would want to strangle innocent dolphins? Are they trespassing and not allowed to play in this bay? Or maybe they’re sick and can’t swallow? This is one example […]