Plumeria, pīkake, pua kenikeni. These flowers—and their scents—conjure up memories of Hawai‘i, but none of them are actually native to the Islands. Plumeria are endemic to Mexico and Central America, pīkake to India and pua kenikeni to the South Pacific. In fact, many of the tropical flowers commonly associated with Hawai‘i, like birds of paradise […]
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
Scattered across the Islands are one-of-a-kind neighborhoods, from historic plantation districts to idyllic surf hubs and oceanfront streets. Filled with history and charm, you can explore these local towns, that are each home to a variety of top-notch restaurants, trendy boutiques and hidden gems. These are the best towns in Hawaiʻi, according to HAWAIʻI Magazine’s 2026 Readers’ Choice Awards. 1. Lahaina, Maui Lahaina will always be loved. Known
It may have seemed like your typical lū‘au—except, maybe, for the horses. But if you know the history of O‘ahu’s North Shore, where the Ritz-Carlton O‘ahu, Turtle Bay is perched, it all makes sense. The North Shore was once home to cattle ranches, where paniolo, or Hawaiian cowboys, worked the land on horseback. In fact, the hotel
The wait is over! HAWAIʻI Magazine’s annual Readers’ Choice Awards is out and on newsstands. (Get your copy here.) From the best beaches and hiking trails to romantic resorts and top poke spots, our list celebrates the best of the best in Hawaiʻi. Over the next few weeks, you’ll get a snapshot of the winners, as we share stories about them—including the best islands
On a quiet morning, gray skies cloud Maui’s usually sunny West Side. But those familiar with the area know that clouds never linger long here: The sun always breaks through. By late afternoon, I’m already relishing the sun’s rays at The Royal Lahaina Resort & Bungalows. Perched on a serene shoreline in Kā‘anapali, the resort
Most visitors to Hawai‘i Island know the Keaukaha area for its beautiful lava rock beaches, its spectacular sunrise views, and the bustling Port of Hilo. It’s no surprise that this coastal shoreline, with access not only to the ocean but also an abundance of freshwater springs, holds significant cultural and historical value. Today, Keaukaha is a common gathering place for
There’s beauty in the simplicity of the poke bowl. Rice—white or brown—is topped with cubed ʻahi, tako or other bite-sized chunks of seafood. (But most of the time, it’s ʻahi). Often the rice is layered with a thin sprinkle of furikake, a Japanese seasoning made of sesame seed and seaweed. And voila, the poke bowl! It can be eaten on the beach,
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
It makes sense that only in Hilo can you order something called a gravy burger. The sleepy town on Hawaiʻi Island has the distinction of being the birthplace of the loco moco, the classic local dish of hamburger patties, white rice, brown gravy and eggs being first served at the now-defunct Lincoln Grill in Hilo.
Our readers voted—and the results are in! We received thousands of votes in our annual Readers’ Choice Award, from the best beaches and hiking trails to shave ice spots and more. You can find out the winners in our 2026 SPRING/SUMMER issue, which is available now. Lookout for the latest issue on newsstands or purchase a copy from our online
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
