Inspired by the Islands and rooted in culture, we’re excited to introduce a new way to experience HAWAIʻI Magazine. This year, we’re sharing our 2026 SUMMER Digital Issue. This exclusive, free digital issue offers a refreshed reading experience. In these pages, you’ll find the winners of our 26th annual photo contest—a cherished tradition for us […]
At the base of Maunkea on the sunny leeward side of Hawai‘i Island, a small-batch brewery is handcrafting high-quality sake using Japanese rice, centuries-old techniques, and Hawai‘i’s natural elements. Islander Sake Brewery’s location is deliberate. Here, cool, dry winds mean more moderate temperatures, which is key during the early stages of sake fermentation. Hawai‘i also
In a quiet Kaua‘i neighborhood, where plantation-era homes sit beside a modest mix of local shops and businesses, Tip Top Motel, Café, & Bakery endures as a beloved institution. The food is straightforward and comforting, the service warm and unpretentious, and each visit feels like home. As it approaches its 110th anniversary, Tip Top stands
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
