This story was originally published in our SUMMER Digital issue, which you can view here. Strings of glowing lanterns, thunderous taiko drums, lilting flutes and mouthwatering food are hallmarks of Obon festivals, along with the dancers who circle around a yagura, or tower, as music fills the warm summer air. Obon, or bon, dances are a beloved […]
In heavenly Hanalei, lush fields of kalo and pristine beaches are set against Kauaʻi’s misty mountains. Before the arrival of Westerners, Hawaiians cultivated kalo in Hanalei Valley on the island’s north shore, creating extensive loʻi (taro fields). Kalo is used to make poi, which continues to be a staple starch in Hawaiian culture. Hanalei was
*This story was updated on April 1, 2026. From ancient fishponds and lush rainforests to a beautiful tapestry of traditions and culture woven into our communities, Hawaiʻi is an extraordinary place. This remote archipelago in the Pacific thrived as an independent kingdom for nearly a century before being overthrown by American and European businessmen.
Kauaʻi is one of my favorite Hawaiian Islands to visit—and I’m not alone. The Garden Isle was voted the Best Island in HAWAIʻI Magazine’s Readers’ Choice Awards in 2025. From verdant valleys and majestic coastlines to laid-back and charming towns, Kauaʻi makes for an unforgettable getaway. And while it’s become a popular destination, Kauaʻi still
Every year we like to look back at the stories HAWAIʻI Magazine readers viewed and engaged with the most. From new restaurants in Lahaina, Maui, to the best beaches across the Islands, here are the 10 articles that received the highest number of views on hawaiimagazine.com in 2025. (Click on the headlines of the stories to read more!) 10. Best Towns in Hawaiʻi in 2025 One-of-a-kind towns dot the
It may be a simple concept, but you can’t help but smile in awe at Reef’s Real Fruit Ice Cream truck. And that’s the goal for Abby Alvin, owner of the vibrant food truck in Kīhei, Maui. With a huge grin, she says it brings her joy watching her customers’ reactions—whether it’s their first or tenth time to her business—as they watch their ice cream swirl out of the machines. Real fruit
*This story was updated on Dec. 24, 2025. A year ago on Dec. 23, 2024, one of the world’s most active volcanoes awoke. That morning, lava fountains spewed from a line of fissures at the base of the summit caldera. Declared episode one, the event was only a prelude to a series of dramatic eruptions at Kīlauea in Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park. Prior to that, the
Step into The Dotted Line on a weekday around noon, and you’re likely to see tables of business professionals making deals over Wagyu burgers and miso yuzu salmon. By 5 p.m., a similar crowd gathers to sip cocktails and enjoy pūpū. The Dotted Line is tucked in The AC Hotel by Marriott, which opened in
It’s common to hear people say they are enamored with Poʻipū. With its picturesque beaches, top-notch restaurants and interesting archaeological sites, it’s no surprise. The sunny town on the island’s south shore exudes the warmth and laid-back vibes characteristic of many beach communities in Hawaiʻi. And while Poʻipū is a popular destination among travelers, it
From Kō, its signature and recently refreshed restaurant, to Pilina, its new lounge, Fairmont Kea Lani is creating a dining scene within its beautiful grounds. Known for its spacious suites and luxe villas perched along Wailea’s golden sands, the resort continues to raise the restaurant bar by thoughtfully showcasing local ingredients in imaginative dishes and
Just in time for the winter surf season, The Ritz-Carlton Oʻahu, Turtle Bay is bringing back its iconic bar. After a five-year closure, Surfer, The Bar returns as a pop-up from Dec. 5 to 13, welcoming kamaʻāina and resort guests to kick off surf season on the North Shore. While at the resort, it seems
Kauaʻi is home to local businesses and artisans whose products make memorable gifts. From punny chocolate to exquisite jewelry, these delightful ideas from the Garden Isle will help get your holiday shopping started. 1. Rooster Poop from Aloha Spice Co. Aloha Spice Co., a charming shop in Hanapēpē, is known for its salts and spice
