Did you know you can visit a replica of a UNESCO World Heritage Site on Oʻahu? And that you can purchase a novel from the westernmost bookshop in the United States in Hawaiʻi? If you’re searching for out-of-the-ordinary experiences in the Islands, check out these ideas. The possibilities are sure to surprise. 1. Take a […]
From rare wildlife and diverse topography to local cuisine and storied traditions, Hawaiʻi’s environment and culture are distinct from any other place in the world. In the U.S., Hawaiʻi is one of just two states with two official languages, in this case, English and ʻōlelo Hawaiʻi. (South Dakota is the other; Alaska has more than
After a two-year interlude from in-person events, Aloha Festivals is back, and it begins this weekend. The month-long celebration of culture, tradition and aloha spirit kicks off on Sept. 10, 2022, with the opening ceremony in Waikīkī. Following the grand event, an exciting program of festivities dots the month of September. And woven throughout the
It’s no surprise the Hawaiian Islands are a top travel destination. While the scenic beaches, lush tropical forests and ‘ono (delicious) food are unforgettable, it’s the welcoming people willing to share Hawai‘i and its rich culture that make a trip to the Islands exceptional. However, Hawai‘i isn’t just a destination—it’s home to 1.5 million
When vacationing on O‘ahu, visitors almost always include a lūʻau on their to-do list. Add award-winning entertainment, a 750-seat theater and Elvis Presley and Michael Jackson tribute artists to the mix, and you’re in for a memorable one-of-a-kind treat. It’s not every day you get to spend an evening in the heart of Waikīkī, so
A question we often receive from readers is how they can ship haku lei—or any lei—from Hawaiʻi to the Mainland (continental United States). The answer is really just knowing which local lei companies to use. The gesture of giving and receiving lei is incomparable. To adorn someone you love with a colorful, fragrant accessory made entirely
Set on Hawaiʻi Island’s Kohala Coast, the beautiful Floating Lantern Festival brings together hundreds of residents and visitors to commemorate loved ones who have passed. The enchanting festival derives from Toro Nagashi, a Japanese tradition which translates to “lantern offerings on water.” During the Floating Lantern Festival on the Big Island, hundreds of paper
The smell of fresh cut flowers fills the air as jubilant ʻukulele melodies provide the soundtrack for a tropical evening. Kālua pork and fresh poi are loaded onto plates and accompanied by sweet mai tais. After a feast of Island cuisine, the heart pounding thunder of drums begins, and an exciting show unfolds for a
On episode 88 of the “Have Aloha Will Travel” podcast, co-hosts Catherine Toth Fox and Grace Maeda welcome HAWAIʻI Magazine’s editorial intern, Mia Anzalone. Like Cat, Mia was born and raised on Oʻahu, so we decided to test the two on all things Hawaiʻi. Do you have what it takes to beat these two
Not many people are familiar with kapa (Hawaiian bark cloth), but designer and artist Page Chang is turning that around. Chang is the owner of Pūkoʻa Studios, a business that sells kapa as fine and wearable works of art. Through prints and fashion accessories, Chang is revitalizing this traditional artform. The mixed-race Hawaiian artist was
On this episode of the “Have Aloha Will Travel” podcast, co-hosts Catherine Toth Fox and Grace Maeda sit down with expert wedding planner Tessa Gomes and professional wedding photographer Joseph Esser. From gathering inspiration and creating mood boards, to keeping guests under control, Tessa and Joseph provide valuable insight and tips on how to get
As Hawai‘i once again welcomes travel, it does so with new avenues for visitors to partake in “trips that give back.” At the helm of establishing this regenerative tourism model is Kalani Ka‘anā‘anā, Hawai‘i Tourism Authority’s chief brand officer. Born and raised on O‘ahu, Ka‘anā‘anā assumed the newly created position last summer and sees regenerative
