Hawaii Island Vacation Travel Information and Tips

Celebrate Good Times, Hawaii! It’s Aloha Festival Time

admin — Fri, 03 Sep 2010 01:22:28 +0000

As the dog days of summer begin to wind down and the little ones head back to school, lunchboxes and backpacks in tow, it can only mean one thing … the start of Aloha Festival season here in Hawaii!

Kicking off today with the 2010 Royal Court Investiture at 2:00 p.m. at the Hilton Hawaiian Village, the Aloha Festivals also features several big events that take place over the course of the next two months, including the Waikiki Ho’olaule’a (Hawaii’s largest block party) and the Aloha Festivals Floral Parade.

For those visitors to the Islands unfamiliar with this grand tradition, the Aloha Festivals are an annual celebration of Hawaii’s culture, customs, traditions and aloha spirit. This year’s Festival theme is “Mele ‘Ailana: Celebrate Island Music” and focuses on presenting Hawaii’s grand history and culture through this melodic art form.

What is known today as Aloha Festivals was actually started in 1946 as “Aloha Week” (the name was officially changed in 1991). It took a full year to plan the first festival and since then, the celebration has expanded to include more than 300 events on six Hawaiian islands over a two-month period.

Each year, nearly 30,000 volunteers give up their time and efforts to stage the festival’s events, which are attended by upwards of one million people.

To learn more about the Aloha Festivals and to see a schedule of events, visit http://www.alohafestivals.com.

Let’s all celebrate!

Image Courtesy Hawaii Magazine

Lanai, Hawaii Manele Bay

admin — Sun, 15 Aug 2010 10:25:48 +0000

Located on the south shore of Lanai, Manele Bay is home to the only boat harbor on Lanai, the sixth-largest Hawaiian island. Many yachts, tour boats, charters, and ferries carrying passengers between Maui and Lanai ply the waters of secluded Manele Bay, which is enveloped by majestic sea cliffs. There is a small beach where swimmers and sunbathers enjoy the warm waters and soothing sand. Those more adventurous may be inclined to undertake certified dive trips to lava caves as well as underwater coral grottoes. Snorkeling is also big in Manele Bay, a marine preserve that offers all types of spectacular creatures, from spinner dolphins to sea turtles. Another popular pastime is whale watching.

Manele Bay Things to Do

Swimming
Snorkeling
Scuba Diving
Whale Watching

For more information, visit www.to-hawaii.com/lanai/attractions/maneleharbor.php

Kalaupapa National Historical Park Damien Tours

admin — Sun, 15 Aug 2010 10:22:37 +0000

Located on Kalauapapa Peninsula at the base of 1600-foot high sea cliffs, Kalaupapa National Historical Park was where leprosy victims were forced to live. Maintained by the National Park Service, Kalaupapa can be toured via authorized groups such as Damien Tours and Molokai Mule Ride. Highlights of the 8,700-acre paradise that is enveloped by 2,000 acres of water include the settlements of Kalaupapa and Kalawo, a volcanic crater, 1600-foot-high cliffs, an amazing rainforest, lava tubes, caves, off-shore islands, coral reefs, and the Molokai Lighthouse. In addition, the park provides a native habitat for endangered Hawaiian vegetation and animals, including Hawaiian Monk Seals whose pups have been born on Kalaupapa National Historical Park’s beaches. A gift shop and museum are located in the settlement of Kalaupapa. Learn about the history of the area and enjoy tremendous views of the peninsula at the Kalaupapa Lookout, which is located in Pala’au State Park, home to a three-mile trail that was hand-carved more than a century ago by Portuguese immigrant Manuel Farinha.

Kalaupapa National Historical Park Highlights

1600-Foot-High Sea Cliffs
Rainforest
Lava Tubes
Caves
Coral Reefs
Molokai Lighthouse
Kalaupapa Lookout

For more information about Kalaupapa National Historical Park, visit www.hawaiiweb.com/molokai/html/sites/kalaupapa_national_historical_park.html

Waikiki Hawaii Shopping Centers

admin — Sun, 15 Aug 2010 10:07:17 +0000

Surfing, sunbathing, and sightseeing all compete with shopping in Waikiki, Hawaii, at such fine malls as Royal Hawaiian Center, International Market Place, Waikiki Beach Walk, Ala Moana Center, and Aloha Tower Marketplace. With more than 100 shops and restaurants, Royal Hawaiian Center is one of Hawaii’s largest shopping centers. Retailers range from Fendi, Ferragamo, and Hermes to Kate Spade, White House/Black Market, and bebe.
International Market Place boasts over 150 shops and kiosks run by local craftspeople, as well as sit-down restaurants, a diverse food court, and stunning waterfall and banyan tree. Waikiki Beach Walk offers eight acres of retail stores, restaurants, and an outdoor entertainment plaza. Ala Moana Center, the largest outdoor shopping mall in the world with almost 300 stores and 70 restaurants, is anchored by Macy’s, Neiman Marcus, Nordstrom, and Sears. Aloha Tower Marketplace is a refurbished shopping center on Honolulu Harbor that features unique waterfront shopping, dining, and complimentary entertainment, everything from hula to jazz performances. Upscale Victoria Ward Center is home to over 120 specialty shops, 19 restaurants, a 16-screen multi-plex movie theatre, and a quaint farmers market where you can purchase fresh local produce. Luxury Row is where you’ll encounter Chanel, Gucci, Yves Saint Laurent, Coach, Tod’s, Tiffany & Co., Bottega Veneta, and Hugo Boss, eight of the finest luxury retailers in the world. Great bargains can be found at the Aloha Swap Meet & Flea Market, which features over 700 vendors.

Waikiki, Hawaii Shopping Centers & Malls

Royal Hawaiian Center
International Market Place
Waikiki Beach Walk
Ala Moana Center
Aloha Tower Marketplace
Victoria Ward Center

Waikiki, Hawaii Boutique Shopping

Luxury Row

Waikiki, Hawaii Bargain Shopping

Aloha Swap Meet & Flea Market
Waikele Premium Outlets

For more information shopping in Waikiki, visit www.aquaresorts.com/about-hawaii/oahu/shopping-about-waikiki.aspx

Honolulu, Hawaii Marathon

admin — Sun, 15 Aug 2010 10:01:05 +0000

There are 25,000 runners who will take part in the annual Honolulu, Hawaii Marathon, the 10th largest marathon in the world, which draws 50,000 spectators. The 2010 Honolulu Marathon will take place on Sunday, December 12. It all begins on Ala Moana Boulevard at Ala Moana Beach Park in Waikiki, a 100-acre area with beaches and recreational facilities. The course takes runners through downtown along Honolulu Harbor and the historic Aloha Tower. Runners then turn into Chinatown and proceed through downtown past Iolani Palace, the statue of King Kamehameha, Kawaiahao Church, and Mission Houses Museum. From there, the course angles back to Ala Moana Boulevard and across the bridge spanning the Ala Wai Canal at the entrance to Waikiki. The course turns right onto Kalakaua Avenue where shops selling everything from souvenirs and t-shirts to high-priced designer items abound. From there, the route circles Diamond Head, the extinct volcanic crater, and then turns right onto Kilauea Avenue, taking participants through Kahal’s residential and commercial sections. After four more miles, runners approach Koko Head, a volcanic crater near Hanauma Bay. At the 22nd mile, the course makes its way onto Kealaolu Avenue along the Waialae Country Club and then comes upon a neighborhood of luxury homes situated on Kahala Beach. The last mile of the course curves around Diamond Head along Kapiolani Regional Park and goes past the Waikiki Aquarium en route to the finish line near the bandstand at Kapiolani Regional Park. The Honolulu Marathon, which competes with major marathons, such as the ones in Boston and New York, began in 1973 with 151 participants.

For more information about the Honolulu Marathon, visit www.honolulumarathon.org

Aqua Hotels & Resorts Waikiki Spa

admin — Sun, 15 Aug 2010 09:56:25 +0000

Indulge in a rejuvenating massage or facial at one of three Waikiki Beach Aqua Hotels & Resorts day spas. Aqua Aloha Surf and Spa, Aqua Palms and Spa, and Aqua Bamboo and Spa each feature experienced massage therapists and a varied menu of offerings. Shiatsu massage is an ancient Oriental technique that stimulates specific acu-points to increase energy flow. Swedish massage is a relaxing way to relieve tension. Lomi Lomi is a traditional Hawaiian massage. Sports massages involved deep-tissue manipulation that’s perfect for chronic pain or specific bodywork. Additional treatments include papaya and pineapple body scrubs for all skin types, citrus body polishes for cleansing and moisturizing, and the AquaSPA essential customized facial, which combines skin-type specific cleansing, exfoliation, and massage with steam.

Aqua Spa Waikiki Massages

Swedish
Lomi Lomi
Reflexology
Shiatsu
Sports
Hot Stone
Couples Massage
Massage A Trois
Chair Massage

Aqua Spa Waikiki Treatments

Noni, Papaya and Pineapple Body Scrub
Citrus Body Polish
Aqua Sampler for Two
Facials
Aromatherapy

For more information on Aqua Spa Waikiki, visit www.aquaresorts.com/aqua-spa/aqua-spa-menu-page-2.aspx

Waikiki, Hawaii Hotel Travel Specials

admin — Sun, 15 Aug 2010 09:46:18 +0000

There are innumerable ways to save on your next vacation or business trip to Hawaii’s Waikiki Beach. Take advantage of a wealth of value travel specials from Aqua Hotels & Resorts. A hip, contemporary hotel chain, Aqua has Honolulu, Waikiki Beach, and guests covered with a great location and terrific rates year round. Savvy Surfer Rates give you the lowest possible rate when you book online. Whether you’re planning a well-deserved vacation in Waikiki, a Kauai outdoor expedition, a romantic getaway on Kauai or a veritable Hawaiian experience on Molokai, reservations made 30 or 60 days in advance of your arrival can save you between 15% and 20% on well-appointed accommodations. For those visitors who have trouble saying “aloha” to Hawaii’s serene surroundings, we make it easy to avoid heading back to reality by offering to make the fifth night free. Plus, Aqua helps everyone celebrate Hawaii’s turning 50 with a Nifty to be Fifty Statehood Special, which features a fabulous first-night rate of just $50.

Aqua Hotel Waikiki Travel Specials

Savvy Surfer Rates: Book online and get the lowest possible rate.
Advance Purchase Discount: Make a reservation 30 or 60 days in advance and save 15% to 20%.
5th Night Free: Stay four nights and get the fifth night free.
Nifty to be Fifty Statehood Special: Celebrate the 50th anniversary of Hawaii with a $50 first-night rate.

For more information about Waikiki, Hawaii travel specials, visit www.aquaresorts.com/special-packages.aspx

Hawaii Vacation Travel Packages

admin — Sun, 15 Aug 2010 09:39:38 +0000

Escape to Hawaii for an unforgettable getaway courtesy of one of more than a dozen Aqua Hotels & Resorts. A hospitable hotel chain, Aqua makes visiting Hawaii affordable by providing a multitude of vacation travel packages. Whichever island you choose to visit, Oahu, Maui, Kauai or Molokai, there’s a deal waiting for you, along with beautiful beaches and breathtaking sunsets. Celebrate Hawaii’s 50th anniversary with the Nifty to be Fifty Statehood Package and get your first night’s stay for just $50. The Stay Free in Hawaii Package offers guests an opportunity to receive five night’s lodging for the price of four. Get your room and car needs met at a great price with the Snooze-N-Crooze Package. Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate both our Kiteboarding Adventure Package and Family Paddleboarding Package while couples seeking a secluded getaway will be drawn to Aqua’s Romance Package. Additional travel deals include the Wailea, Maui Golf Package and the Bed and Breakfast Package. What’s more, there are extra ways to save with advance 30-day, 60-day, and pre-pay purchase discounts along with AAA, senior, military, government, corporate, and kamaaina special rates.

Oahu Travel Packages

Nifty to be Fifty Statehood Package – $50 First Night Special
Stay Free in Waikiki – 5th Night Free Special
SPA-licious – Renew Your Spirit and Your Senses
Snooze-N-Crooze – Oahu Room and Car Package

Maui Travel Packages

Kiteboarding Adventure Package
Family Paddleboarding Package
Maui Romance Package
Wailea, Maui Golf Package

Kauai Travel Packages

Stay Free in Kauai – 5th Night Free Special
Snooze-N-Crooze – Kauai Stay & Drive Package
Bed and Breakfast Package

Molokai Travel Packages

Stay Free in Molokai – 5th Night Free Special

Aqua Hotels & Resorts Discounts

Kamaaina
AAA/CAA
AARP/Senior
Military
Government
Corporate
Advance 30-day, 60-day, and Pre-pay Purchase Discounts

For more information on Aqua Hotels & Resorts Hawaii travel packages, visit www.aquaresorts.com/special-packages.aspx

Waikiki Beach Walk in Honolulu, Hawaii

admin — Sun, 15 Aug 2010 09:26:34 +0000

Eight-acre Waikiki Beach Walk has it all, from shopping to dining to entertainment. There are nearly 100 Hawaii-related retail stores, selling an eclectic amalgam of items. Take care of your apparel needs at Sunshine Swimwear, Blue Ginger, Honolulu Surf Co., Oasis Lifestyle, and Aloha Army. Accessorize to the max at Hawaii Head 2 Toe, Folli Follie, MP Collections, and Freaky Tiki Tropical Optical. Bangles and baubles of all types can be found at King Jewelry, Planet U2, and Island Pearls. Find the perfect gift or souvenir at any number of specialty stores, such as Hawaiian Quilt Collection, Mana Hawaii, and Under the Koa Tree. Rejuvenate, refresh, and relax with a pampering massage or soothing facial at Serenity Spa Hawaii. Even the most demanding foodies will find culinary satisfaction at an appetizing array of restaurants serving up a heaping helping of everything from pastrami sandwiches (Giovanni Pastrami) and hamburgers (Cheeseburger Beachwalk) to Hawaii Fusion (Roy’s Waikiki) and seafood (Ocean House Restaurant). Outstanding entertainment featuring island musicians can be enjoyed at Kani Ka Pila Grille, located poolside at the Outrigger Reef on the Beach. And if you’re into dancing the night away, you’ll find just what you need at CW’s Night Club, which boasts some of Hawaii’s top live bands and DJs who specialize in music from the 80s, 90s, and today.

Waikiki Beach Walk Apparel Stores

Sunshine Swimwear
Blue Ginger
Honolulu Surf Co.
Oasis Lifestyle
Aloha Army

Waikiki Beach Walk Accessory Stores

Head 2 Toe
Folli Follie
MP Collections
Freaky Tiki Tropical Optical
Makana Trading Co.
Moonbow Tropics

Waikiki Beach Walk Jewelry Stores

King Jewelry
Planet U2
Island Pearls
Noa Noa
Na Haku

Waikiki Beach Walk Gift Stores

Hawaiian Quilt Collection
Mana Hawaii
Under the Koa Tree
Bittner
Nei

Waikiki Beach Walk Restaurants

Ocean House
Roy’s Waikiki
Cheeseburger Beachwalk
Giovanni Pastrami
Coconut Willy’s

Waikiki Beach Walk Entertainment

Kani Ka Pila Grille
CW’s Night Club

For more information on Waikiki Beach Walk, visit www.waikikibeachwalk.com

Alan Wong’s Restaurant Honolulu, Hawaii

admin — Sun, 15 Aug 2010 09:03:00 +0000

Whether you’re dining at Alan Wong’s classic Honolulu, Hawaii Restaurant or his Pineapple Room, you’ll be treated to amazing Hawaii Regional Cuisine. Unique to the islands of the Aloha State, Hawaii Regional Cuisine is a combination of all the ethnic flavors found here today. Alan Wong and his dedicated team work with local farmers to bring customers the finest home grown and raised products. It’s the epitome of sustainability. It’s also the height of delicious. Alan Wong’s Honolulu, which is located on the third floor of an office building with no view of the ocean, serves up a wide range of unique delicacies. Appetizers range from seafood cakes and abalone to roast duck nacho and crispy won ton Ahi poke balls. Entrees include grilled mahimahi, Kuahiwi Ranch rib steak, and macadamia nut-coconut crusted lamb chops. Desserts are impossible to resist, such as Kula Strawberries Romanoff, coconut tapioca, and new wave banana split. At the Pineapple Room, which began when one of Alan Wong’s chefs wanted to run his own restaurant, you’ll find breakfast on weekends, lunch every day, and dinner six days a week. Breakfast items include an open face Waialua asparagus omelet and Hawaiian style Eggs Benedict. Lunch features a Kalua pig BLT and a Kim Chee Reuben Sandwich. Dinner brings such specialties as Asian shrimp scampi and seared peppered ahi with Asian slaw. Pineapple Room desserts like Lilikoi Cheesecake and Haupia Tapioca “Halo Halo" will surely tempt you.

Alan Wong’s Honolulu Menu (pdf)
The Pineapple Room Menu (pdf)

For more information about Alan Wong’s Restaurants, visit www.alanwongs.com