Hawaiʻi is the only U.S. state with two officials languages—English and ʻōlelo Hawaiʻi, or Hawaiian. The language had been banned in the public education system in 1896; Hawaiʻi was annexed by the U.S. two years later. The language was on the verge of vanishing. Then, in 1978 the state constitution gave the Hawaiian language the […]
Located about 34 miles west of Waikīkī is Kapolei, deemed Oʻahu’s second city about 50 years ago. The idea was to build up this mostly residential area to shorten the commutes for those who live in Central and West Oʻahu. There are government offices here and, over the years, shopping centers, restaurants and other attractions
Got a sweet tooth—and love Maui, too? Then this post is for you! We’ve rounded up some of the most popular desserts on Maui right now, from giant stuffed cookies to dreamy cream pies. 1. Da Half Baked, Maui Cookie Lady With a shop in Makawao, Maui Cookie Lady is best known for her colossal
Hana Hou Hilo bustles with energy. Once an antiques and collectibles store focused on Hawaiiana and Oceania art and accessories, the boutique in sleepy Hilo town now sells an assortment of locally made goods, curated jewelry and apparel, as well as zero-waste, sustainably made products. And it all started with a wahine (woman) and her
There’s a special place in our hearts for okazuya, an old-school Japanese delicatessen that serves ready-to-eat and takeout dishes. The concept of okazuya has been around for decades and is steeped in history and tradition. Hefty portions of fried chicken, thick noodles full of flavor, carefully packed cone sushi and handmade musubi often line the
Kauaʻi may be the oldest of the main Hawaiian Islands—but it’s also one of the most beloved by visitors. Everything about the island—its lushness, its uncrowded beaches, its laid-back vibe—makes for an idyllic Hawaiʻi vacation. But there are things that are unique to the Garden Isle—things you won’t find anywhere else in Hawaiʻi. Read More: Our
In an island paradise known for stereotypical tiki drinks like the mai tai and lava flow, there’s nothing more refreshing than a locally produced libation made with Maui-grown ingredients. Join us on a spirited exploration from the slopes of Haleakalā to the heart of Kīhei, unveiling six varieties of beer, wine and liquor all crafted
Summer is one of the best times to visit Hawaiʻi. The days are longer, the weather is perfect—and there’s so much to do. From lounging on golden beaches to walking through botanical gardens, there’s already a lot to do in the Islands. And then there are the summer events and festivals. If you’re planning a
If you haven’t been to the North Shore—or haven’t been in awhile—this blog is for you. We ventured out to the northern part of Oʻahu, which has long lured visitors with its winter surf and beach-y towns, to find new things to do—and eat. Here are nine new things you need to put on your
There may not be any national parks on Kauaʻi, but the island does boast five—yes, five—state parks with some of the island’s best beaches, trails and vistas. One of the most popular is Kōkeʻe State Park, perched 3,600 feet above sea level on the island’s west side. It’s truly a hiker’s paradise, with 45 miles
Whether you’re new to the world of surfing or looking to improve your skills, the Jamie O’Brien School of Surf lets you experience it at one of the world’s most famous beaches. Located in the heart of Waikīkī, the School of Surf is the latest venture of North Shore native and professional surfer Jamie O’Brien.
Many of us grew up spending our hanabata days eating crack seed after school—dried, preserved fruits and nuts that range from salty, sour to sweet. Locals know that the best crack seed stores around town are those mom-and-pop stores that have been in business in decades. Case in point: Lin’s Hawaiian Snacks. Like other things
