Hawaiʻi Island isn’t my usual go-to for island hopping, but when a friend who once called it home invited me along, I couldn’t resist the chance to see the place through his local perspective. Whether you’re planning a long weekend getaway or a quick staycation, here’s how to experience the best of the Big Island […]
As I walk around the corner of Keawe Street and Furneaux Lane in downtown Hilo on Hawaiʻi Island, bright red traffic signs shout, “Do Not Enter” and “Wrong Way”—which means I’m in the right place. I follow the edge of the building until I find a staircase. As I descend into The Hidden Nēnē, I’m
With deep roots in local history, Wailuku has been significant since before the Hawaiian Kingdom—the nearby ʻĪao Valley was the site of Kamehameha’s infamous Battle of Kepaniwai in 1790, a key turning point in his effort to unify the Hawaiian Islands. Today, this Central Maui town honors its past while embracing new businesses that bring
Tequila lovers are in for a treat at Waikulu Distillery, Hawai‘i’s only producer of blue agave spirits. Located in Makawao, this farm-to-bottle operation began as a horticulture experiment and has grown into an award-winning distillery crafting libations exclusive to Maui. “My plan wasn’t to make it an enormous distillery, just something that could get to
I haven’t reached the 2025 Maui Music & Food Experience yet, but already I can hear the echo of “Paint It Black” reverberating through the Hyatt Regency Maui Resort and Spa. I ask myself if it’s still considered a cover of the Rolling Stones’ original song when Bernard Fowler—who’s been in the world-renowned rock band
The theater lights dim, a drumbeat ripples through your headphones and the IMAX-style screen bursts to life with stunning footage that takes you from the slopes of Haleakalā to the depths of the Pacific Ocean. Live musicians and dancers blur the line between stage and screen in a fusion of Hawaiian tradition and modern technology.
My first bite of the Kona kampachi crudo bursts with bright citrus, delicate herbaceous notes, and a punch of spice, balanced by the silky richness of avocado purée. Slow-dripped tomato water serves as an homage to Taylor Ponte’s childhood in Upcountry Maui, where he would sip the juice left behind in bowls of lomi lomi
Two years after the fire that destroyed Lahaina, recovery is uneven and deeply layered. In some places, residential areas are construction zones; in others, families are back in their homes and returning to normalcy. Local businesses that were once in Lahaina are reopening across the island. Maui County has rolled out housing programs to aid
Family-friendly and foodie approved, these immersive farm tours highlight commodities being grown and produced on Maui. From juicy pineapple and decadent chocolate to fragrant lavender and tangy goat cheese, you’ll ignite your senses as you peek behind the scenes of the island’s agricultural industry. These farm tours invite visitors to slow down and engage with
No trip to Hawaiʻi—especially for first-time visitors—is complete without attending an authentic lūʻau. These immersive gatherings share Hawaiian and often Polynesian history, culture, cuisine and dance to offer a glimpse into local traditions and storytelling. From beachfront settings and mesmerizing performances to flavorful dishes like kālua pork and lau lau, bottomless mai tais, and warm
Maui has long held a reputation for being home to some of the world’s best beaches. From expansive, sun-soaked shorelines to sheltered coves with abundant marine life, Maui offers something for every type of beachgoer. Whether you’re looking to swim, snorkel, sunbathe or simply soak in the views, the Valley Isle delivers—and our readers seem
Whether it’s your honeymoon or 50th anniversary, or any occasion in between, these reader-approved resorts on Maui offer unforgettable experiences for you and your sweetheart. Beyond stunning rooms, these world-class properties provide a variety of romantic amenities, including private cabanas, serene spas, sunset dinners and curated activities for two. No matter the chapter of your
