To the naked eye, it looks like plaid, but locals can spot palaka prints from miles away. Palaka, known for its signature white woven pattern atop a solid color—typically red, blue or green—has been a design staple of the Islands for generations. Today, local brands are elevating the pattern to connect with Hawaiʻi’s historical heritage, infusing palaka everywhere from tote bags and beach […]
This story was originally published on July 8, 2020, and updated in May 2026. Springer Kaye remembers growing up in Mānoa on Oʻahu with a neighbor who would share lychee with her family. It has always reminded her of summer in Hawaiʻi. “We would sit there, with that big paper bag of lychee, covered in
*This story was originally published on May 5, 2015, and updated in May 2026. While plenty of bars and restaurants throughout Hawaiʻi will break out the Dos Equis, chips and salsa for today’s Cinco de Mayo holiday, many family homes will celebrate May 5 a little bit differently: by flying koinobori, colorful carp-shaped flags, in
In my Oʻahu neighborhood, plumeria and pua kenikeni trees sit in yards of generous neighbors always willing to share their pua. Anytime I need to make lei, I ask a neighbor if I can pick a few dozen flowers. From birthdays to graduations, giving lei is how we celebrate special occasions in Hawaiʻi. Known for her vibrant, one-of-a-kind lei, Oʻahu-based lei lei maker
Hawaiʻi is no stranger to great chefs, both homegrown and imported, and one of the newest ones that foodies are buzzing about is Hawaiʻi Island’s Rhoda Magbitang. Not only is Magbitang the executive chef at the prestigious CanoeHouse at Mauna Lani, Auberge Collection on Hawaiʻi Island, she’s also been on our TV screens for the
Every year May 1 marks Lei Day in Hawaiʻi. It’s a tribute to the iconic Hawaiian lei, a beautiful symbol of aloha that is so tightly woven in Hawaiian culture. Originating in the 1920s during a period of steamship travel to the Islands, Lei Day has blossomed into a beloved tradition. Throughout the Islands, festivals
Mist settles among the eucalyptus trees as I wind up Pi‘iholo Road into the heart of Olinda, bound for Ho‘omana Spa to heal body and soul. Pulling into the driveway of this traditional lomilomi (Hawaiian massage) spa on Maui feels less like arriving at a business and more like visiting a loved one, which is entirely
Whether it’s a trip to another island, the continental U.S. or abroad, locals like to bring home omiyage to share pieces of their travels with family and friends. The Japanese term omiyage generally refers to souvenirs or gifts—but it’s more than that. In Hawai‘i, it’s an endearing practice meant to express appreciation and aloha. The
Anyone who’s grown up in the Islands has either given, received or marveled at a piece of Hawaiian heirloom jewelry, the highly ornate, hand-engraved bracelets and pendants emblazoned with Hawaiian names or initials in an Old English-style font. But where did this jewelry and its unique style come from? Turns out the first Hawaiian bracelet
The Merrie Monarch Festival is one of the biggest events in Hawaiʻi. The 63rd annual Merrie Monarch Festival kicks off on April 5 in Hilo, Hawaiʻi Island, which features three consecutive days of hula competition: The Miss Aloha Hula competition on April 9, the kahiko division on April 10 and the ʻauana division on April
*This web story was originally published in November 2020, and updated in March 2026. The short list was included in our FALL/WINTER 2025 issue. The best lū‘au in Hawai‘i will serve the authentic stuff: succulent kālua pig, creamy haupia and, of course, poi. So if you are lucky enough to get handed that perfect plate, here’s what you’ll be eating: From
*This story was originally published on March 3, 2020, and updated in February 2026. During Japan’s Edo period (1603-1868), families began displaying hina-ningyo or dolls, on the third day of the third month. Timed with the blooming of vibrant pink peach blossoms, displaying hina-ningyo was believed to ward off evil spirits. The custom became known
