Garden of Eden Maui.

26 miles into the road to Hana is an oasis called The Garden of Eden. The arboretum on the outskirts of Hana opened in 1996 after owner Alan Bradbury’s first vision for his majestic hideaway failed. The lifelong musician bought the land in 1991, with hopes of building a recording studio where he could invite musicians to come create in an idyllic setting.

As he began building the studio, his hopes of sonic glory were soon dashed. The salinity of the air and the moisture of the rainforest were unconducive to a thriving recording studio, which was now full of prematurely rusting electronics. He sat on acres of property with seemingly no purpose. Until one day, he left the gate to his property open and watched as a trickling of visitors entered his verdant grounds. Bradbury –  a licensed arborist with a background in park development – realized then the potential to create a walking garden, which he eventually named The Garden of Eden.

What can I expect to find at Garden of Eden Maui?

Though it’s got quite the namesake, its fertile valleys and trails do the name justice. As you enter this botanical paradise, you’re greeted by free-roaming peacocks in all their teal splendor. Tiny ducks quack their way along trails to a pond that serves as their headquarters. Red, waxy anthuriums pop and ferns sprawl in all directions. Lush is an understatement. At the entrance, a friendly gate attendant hands you a map to the 2.5 miles of meandering jungle trails that lie ahead.. You Choose Your Own Adventure from there. Explore the Bamboo Alley to a small orchard, or head to the Keopuka Rock Overlook for a glimpse of the beach just beyond the Hana Highway. Another trail leads you to a postcard view of Puohokamoa Falls. No matter which direction you go, your inner-tree hugger will be delighted.

The garden boasts 150 inches of rainfall a year, which feeds over 700 species of plants and trees—featuring Koa, Rainbow Eucalyptus and Bamboo—some donated by the late George Harrison of The Beatles – a Hana resident.

It took five years to prepare the land before the arboretum officially opened to the public. Bradbury toiled , removing invasive species by hand and with heavy excavation machinery. He replaced these with endemic plants, learning which ones would thrive best based on lots of trial and error. “What you see here today is a combination of nearly 30 years of devoted work and dedication,” Bradbury said. “While my friends were at the beach or happy hour, we were out here manifesting our vision.”

Garden of Eden Maui.

Garden of Eden Tours, Gifts and Food

The Garden of Eden is also home to a few independent businesses. Maui Rappel is a tour company that takes visitors to Puohokamoa Falls. The Garden Gallery and Gift Shop carries a slew of locally-made crafts from lotions and candles to watercolors.  Savor Maui is the garden’s café, which peddles local delicacies like Kalua Pork and Hot Honey Ham. All of the businesses add to the allure of Hana’s beauty, full of lush valleys and dripping foliage.

The Garden of Eden’s manager emphasized the intention to make the property feel like a sanctuary. There is secure parking for visitors, several waterfalls and of course all of the flora and fauna. It is especially important to the staff that everyone, including people traveling with families and the disabled, be able to see it all. According to the Garden of Eden website, the property is managed without pesticides or herbicides, except to control highly invasive non-native species, part of Bradbury’s commitment to leaving the world a better place.

”We’ve tried to do our part with stewarding the land in a very conservation-oriented way,” the garden’s manager said.  

Garden of Eden, open daily from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., including holidays. $20 for adults, $10 for children ages 5-10. free for children under five. Discounts for parties of 5 or more, military, students, AAA members and kama’āina. 10600 Hana Hwy, Haiku, HI 96708 808-572-9899.

The post The Garden of Eden Maui: A Respite on the Road to Hana appeared first on Hawaii.com.

Traditional poke made with raw fish, limu, Hawaiian salt and ʻinamona. Photo by Sarah Burchard.

There are 3,108 poke shops in the United States — more than 240 of them are in Honolulu. That’s a 22% increase since 2020, according to IBISWorld, which expects that number to grow over the next five years.

In 2016, Eater reported that the number of restaurants serving poke had doubled since 2014 — from 342 venues to 700 as of August 2016. It appears poke is here to stay.

As it should be. There’s no better beach companion than a deli cup of chilled poke and a pair of chopsticks. Poke is not only delicious — it’s healthy, versatile for most diets and easy to prepare. It also carries a rich history that many Hawaiʻi locals deeply connect with.

Poke (pronounced poh-kay) is a Hawaiian dish. Traditionally, it was made with raw fish cut into cubes, seasoned with Hawaiian salt and, perhaps, some limu and ʻinamona (ground kukui nuts). Over time, as immigrants arrived to work on sugar cane plantations, the seasonings expanded to include ingredients such as white or green onions, Hawaiian chili pepper, sesame oil and shoyu.

Today, the number of toppings you can find on a poke bowl is seemingly endless.

Although poke — which means “to slice” in Hawaiian — has become synonymous with ‘ahi, it can be made from almost anything: fish, ‘ulu (breadfruit), kalo (taro), beets, beef — you name it.

The Poke All Around class at Andaz Maui at Wailea Resort. Photo by Sarah Burchard.

Learn How To Make Poke

At Ka‘ana Kitchen, a Hawaiʻi-inspired farm-to-table restaurant at the Andaz Maui at Wailea Resort, Chef Rhoderick Bulosan hosts a class called Poke All Around. Guests learn the history of poke while watching Bulosan break down a loin of fresh ‘ahi and dice steamed octopus. Then, each participant creates their own poke dish, choosing from a spread of toppings including locally grown cucumber, jalapeño, sea asparagus, green onion and ʻinamona.

As Bulosan prepares and serves poke, he shares stories from his upbringing on Hawaiʻi Island — memories of spear fishing octopus as a kid and of his parents working on the sugar cane plantation. All of these experiences, he says, help explain why poke looks the way it does today.

“Now, you guys remember during the sugar cane era,” Bulosan said. “A lot of ethnicities and cultures brought so many different things to Hawaiʻi. We got Koreans bringing sesame oil; sesame seeds and soy sauce from the Japanese; Chinese brought oyster sauce. So many different things, you know, from different cultures. And that’s what Hawaiʻi is known for. It’s a melting pot of all these cultures.”

Chef Rhoderick Bulosan at Andaz Maui at Wailea Resort. Photo by Sarah Burchard.

Some Of Our Favorite Poke Shops in Hawaiʻi

• Foodland – Locally-owned grocery store. Multiple locations on Oʻahu, Maui, Hawaiʻi Island and Kauaʻi.
• Tamashiro Market – Honolulu, Oʻahu
• Tin Roof – Kahului, Maui
• Tanioka’s Seafood & Catering – Waipahu, Oʻahu 
• Tamura’s Fine Wines & Liquor – Multiple locations on Oʻahu and Maui.
• Young’s Market – Honolulu, Oʻahu
• Kahuku Superette – Kahuku, Oʻahu
• Maguro Brother’s – Honolulu, Oʻahu
• Aliʻi Fish Market – Honolulu, Oʻahu
• Yama’s Fish Market – Honolulu, Oʻahu
• Paradise Poke – Honolulu, Oʻahu
• Off The Hook – Mānoa, Oʻahu
• Koloa Fish Market – Koloa Town, Kauaʻi
• Da Poke Shack  – Kailua-Kona, Hawaiʻi Island

The post The History of Poke appeared first on Hawaii.com.

Image sourced on Shutterstock

No matter how you spend your day in Waikīkī — surfing, shopping or just relaxing on the beach — I’ve found that the best way to end it is by stepping onto a Waikīkī sunset cruise. There’s something about watching the sun dip behind the horizon from the water that makes Waikīkī feel even more magical. For many visitors, it’s a must-do experience and one of the best ways to see Honolulu from a different perspective.

Waikīkī Sunset Cruises Straight From the Beach

One of the things I love about Waikīkī is how easy it is to catch a sunset sail. Many catamarans leave right from the sand in front of the major hotels, so you don’t even need to head to the harbor. You simply walk across the beach, check in and within minutes you’re aboard a catamaran for your evening sail. When you’re researching, be sure to ask where the boat leaves from as some companies have boats at the harbor and on the beach.

My Sunset Sail Experience

On Friday, my friend and I decided to head down to Waikīkī for happy hour and a cruise. We started at Duke’s Restaurant for a drink, then made our way toward the Sheraton to check in for our sunset catamaran tour with Maitaʻi.

The process was seamless. We booked online, completed liability waivers in advance and received clear instructions via text throughout the day. The catamaran pulled right onto the sand, and we boarded barefoot. After a quick safety briefing, we were sailing toward Diamond Head, drinks in hand with dozens of other sailboats enjoying golden hour.

About 45 minutes in, we turned back toward Waikīkī. All eyes shifted to the horizon as the sun melted into the Pacific — the kind of moment that makes a sunset boat ride in Hawaiʻi unforgettable.

Sunset from the Mai T’ai

Popular Waikīkī Sunset Cruises from the Beach

• Sunset Sail on the Mai Ta’i Catamaran

• Aloha Hour Sail on Hāwea Catamaran

• Sunset Sail on the Ke Kai

• Sunset Sail on the Na Hoku

Oʻahu Sunset Cruises From Ala Moana

Some of the larger boats depart from Ala Moana Harbor, just a short walk or ride from Waikīkī. These cruises usually offer more space and often include live music or dinner service, making them great options for couples looking for a romantic sunset cruise or families who prefer a more spacious setting.

Popular Sunset Cruises from Ala Moana

• Oʻahu Catamarans

• Waikīkī Sunset Dinner Cruise

• Honolulu Sunset Dinner Cruise

Choosing the Best Sunset Cruise on Oʻahu

Not all sunset cruises are the same, which is part of the fun. Some are calm and romantic, with champagne toasts and Hawaiian music. Others are lively, with upbeat playlists, dancing and mai tais flowing.

When I’m looking for a quiet evening, I’ll choose a mellow Oʻahu sunset dinner cruise. But when I want to celebrate with friends, the party-style catamarans that sail straight from Waikīkī Beach are my go-to. It all depends on your mood — and that’s why many people do more than one.

Friday Night Fireworks

If you can, book your Honolulu sunset cruise on a Friday evening. The Hilton Hawaiian Village puts on a free weekly fireworks show, and the view from the water is unbeatable. From your boat, the bursts of color reflect across the ocean as the city lights twinkle along the shoreline.

It’s one of those uniquely Waikīkī moments that combines the beauty of Hawaiʻi with a touch of celebration — a memory you’ll carry home.

What to Expect Onboard

Most Oʻahu sunset cruises last 90 minutes to two hours. Here’s what I’ve found most helpful to know:

• Check-in is easy: For beach catamarans, you meet directly on the sand. For Ala Moana, you check in at the harbor.

• Casual is fine: You’ll often board barefoot, so sandals and beachwear work best.

• Food and drinks vary: Many catamarans include open-bar beer, wine and mai tais. Some allow BYOB, while dinner cruises provide a full meal.

• Weather is usually perfect: It can get breezy after sunset, so bring a light sweater.

• Bring your camera: The view of the sunset from the boat is one you’ll want to capture.

Why It’s Worth It

The beauty of a sunset cruise on Oʻahu isn’t just the view — it’s the perspective. From the water, Waikīkī looks both lively and peaceful, and Diamond Head glows against the evening sky. Whether you choose a Waikīkī sunset dinner cruise with live music or a barefoot catamaran with mai tais, the experience feels unforgettable.

For me, ending a day in Waikīkī with a sail is the ultimate way to slow down and savor Hawaiʻi. It’s affordable, easy to arrange and always a highlight of my trips.

FAQs About Waikīkī & Oʻahu Sunset Cruises

What is the best sunset cruise on Oʻahu?
If you’re staying in Waikīkī, you can’t go wrong with the Maitaʻi Catamaran or the Na Hoku, which both leave from the beach in Waikīkī. Both offer free drinks, great service and an unforgettable sail. For something more romantic, consider an Oʻahu sunset dinner cruise from Ala Moana.

How much is a Waikīkī sunset cruise?
Most Waikīkī sunset sails cost between $50–$80 per person. Some boats have discounted children’s rates, while others are BYOB and priced a little lower.

Is food included on a sunset cruise?
Most Waikīkī cruises include drinks but not food. Some offer pupu (appetizers). Dinner cruises from Ala Moana do include full meals, so check the description before booking.

Are drinks included?
Yes, most catamarans include soft drinks, beer, wine and mai tais. Some cruises are BYOB and others have a cash bar so be sure to read the description before booking.

What should I wear?
A sunset boat ride in Honolulu is casual. Wear something comfortable, bring sandals you can slip off easily and consider a light jacket.

How long is a sunset cruise?
Most last about 90 minutes to two hours, though dinner cruises can be two to three hours.

Can you book a private sunset cruise on Oʻahu?
Yes. Mana Cruises and other operators offer private luxury charters with food and drinks — a perfect choice if you want a more exclusive experience. Guests can enjoy personalized boat charters featuring scenic views and local spirits from Koʻolau Distillery on their ocean experience. Charters can accommodate families, couples and special occasions.

The post Why I Love a Waikīkī Sunset Cruise appeared first on Hawaii.com.

Photo courtesy of Shutterstock.

This article was written with input from John Alford, the owner of Oʻahu-based bike tour company, Bike Hawaii.

Looking to experience the islands on two wheels? Hawaiʻi biking tours offer an unforgettable adventure — from breezy coastal rides to adrenaline-pumping downhill volcano descents. Whether you’re after a family-friendly bike path or a guided summit-to-sea ride, Hawaiʻi has a trail (and a tour) for you.

This article is intended for tourists happy to rent a bike on-island or join an organized biking tour. (If you’re a serious mountain biker traveling with your own mountain bike, we recommend downloading or picking up John Alford’s book, “Mountain Biking in the Hawaiian Islands”.)

Where to Go Biking in Hawaiʻi

If biking in Hawaiʻi is on your agenda, the first decision you have to make is which island to visit. “Each island has something different to offer,” Alford said “from technical rides to van-assisted downhill coasts. Riding in Hawaiʻi is a great way to see the sights, get some exercise and experience the beauty of Hawaiʻi.”

Here’s a quick summary of what the islands are best known for when it comes to biking in Hawaiʻi:

Oʻahu

• Urban rides through Honolulu and Waikīkī, with loops around Diamond Head.
• Scenic paved-road cycling with shorter climbs in the Koʻolau Mountains.
• Cultural sightseeing trips and food tours by bike.
• Easy ride in the Pu’u ʻOhia rainforest.
• Kualoa ranch ebike beginner rides and advanced mountain biking rides. 

Maui

• Famous for its Haleakalā downhill biking tours, where vans take you up the volcano and you coast down through sweeping views.
• Forest and upcountry routes for adventurous riders.

Photo courtesy of @kejtijay

 Hawaiʻi Island (Big Island)

• Home to Bike Volcano tours, which combine sightseeing with guided cycling around Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park.
• Technical trails at Lower Waiākea (Kulani) Trails near Hilo.
• Long-distance road cycling along Saddle Road and coastal routes.

Kauaʻi

• The Kapaʻa Bike Path (Ke Ala Hele Makālae) is one of the most popular biking tours in Hawaiʻi — a safe, scenic, and easy ride perfect for families. Just rent a bike and go.
• Mountain biking options include Kuilau–Moalepe trails and Kalepa Ridge.

Lānaʻi

• Fewer organized tours, but quiet country roads make for intimate, off-the-beaten-path biking experiences.

Downhill Volcano Bike Tours

No discussion of bike tours in Hawaiʻi is complete without Maui’s Haleakalā. Here’s what you can expect:

• Shuttle to the volcano summit for sunrise. Pickup can be as early as 1am.
• At the top, you’ll have a safety briefing. Prepare for cold temperatures.
• You’ll start the ride a few miles from the summit. It’s mostly a downhill ride through switchbacks and scenic upcountry roads.
• Van support and gear included (helmets, gloves, jackets).

Important updates:

• Since 2023, commercial tours are limited to a 6.5-mile section of Haleakalā Crater Road.
• No biking through residential neighborhoods.
• Minimum age: 15.
• Some routes are detoured due to wildfire recovery.

Controversies & Safety Concerns

Like many Hawaiʻi biking tours, downhill rides have sparked debate:

• Resident concerns: Maui locals say tour groups clog narrow roads and disrupt commutes.
• Safety record: Incidents, including a 2024 visitor fatality, highlight the risks of high-speed descents.
• Environmental issues: Illegal mountain biking trails on state land harm native ecosystems.

Local authorities now regulate commercial tours more strictly to balance tourism with community safety.

Tips for Tourists

• Book your Hawaiʻi bike tour early — spots sell out fast.
• Confirm your operator is licensed and compliant with county rules.
• Choose a tour suited to your fitness level (casual path vs. downhill ride).
• Always wear safety gear.
• Respect local traffic, stay on authorized trails and ride with aloha.

From the gentle shoreline path of Kauaʻi to the thrilling descent of Haleakalā, Hawaiʻi biking tours deliver unforgettable ways to see the islands. Just remember: the best rides balance adventure with safety and respect for local communities. Do that, and paradise truly unfolds on two wheels.

The post Hawaiʻi Biking Tours: The Best Trails, Routes & Downhill Rides appeared first on Hawaii.com.

To make Hawaiian pa’i’ai or poi kalo (taro) is steamed and pounded with water. Courtesy of Hawaii Tourism Authority. Photo by Heather Goodman.

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Curious about traditional Hawaiian Food? While most visitors think of shave ice, pineapple and musubi as Hawaiian foods, they are not. These came hundreds of years after Hawai’i was discovered by Polynesians settlers and are considered “local food,” as opposed to Hawaiian. Even poke, as we know it today, was developed long after Hawaiʻi became a part of the U.S. 

What are Hawaiʻi canoe crops?

When we think about traditional Hawaiian food today, we are referring to “canoe crops” – staple foods that were brought to the Hawaiian Islands over 1000 years ago by canoe – which include ingredients such as kalo (taro), ʻulu (breadfruit), niu (coconut), maiʻa (banana), ʻuala (purple sweet potato) and ʻōlena (turmeric) just to name a few. 

Canoe crops were more than just sustenance to Native Hawaiians. They were used for clothing, shelter, medicine and rituals. ʻUlu is a symbol of food security, while kalo – the most important of the canoe crops – is considered the ancestor of all Hawaiian people.

Although Native Hawaiians have grown these crops for centuries, they are not always easy to find in grocery stores or on restaurant menus. But seeking them out provides not only the reward of learning more about Hawaiian culture, it’s also an opportunity to taste something new and delicious. 

Why Trust My Advice?

I am not Native Hawaiian, nor am I a cultural practitioner. I am a food writer and former chef who has been cooking and learning about the foods of different cultures around the world for almost 30 years. The first thing I did when I moved to Hawaiʻi nine years ago was start a project called the “Year of Ingredients” where I chronicled a different local Hawaiʻi ingredient every day for a year straight. In my research I learned where to source these ingredients, how to cook them and what their medicinal benefits were. During that time, I began touring local farms, leading farmers market tours and hosting farm-to-table dinners on Oʻahu. Continuing down the rabbit hole eventually led me to volunteering regularly with ʻāina-based organizations, and farms, islandwide that grow traditional Hawaiian crops, and becoming an ʻulu ambassador for the Hawaiʻi ʻUlu Cooperative – a local non-profit I have written articles and guides for and developed recipes and products for utilizing canoe crops. Locals know me best as “The Healthy Locavore” – my IG handle and name of my blog – someone who is passionate about personal and environmental health, local agriculture and supporting local businesses. After 10 years of writing about food and travel for publications nationwide, I still find the most joy in writing about the foods of Hawaiʻi.

You can find canoe crops like kalo and ʻulu at produce markets in Chinatown on Oʻahu. Photo by Ketino Photography.

Where can I learn more about Hawaiʻi canoe crops? 

If you are interested in learning more about Hawaiian staple foods, there are several ways to go about it. 

Learn Before You Taste

• Cultural Centers: Places like the Polynesian Cultural Center on Oʻahu and Maui Ocean Center on Maui offer an interactive way to learn about Native Hawaiian history and culture. 
• Hotel & Resort cultural programs: The Westin Maui Resort & Spa in Ka’anapali and the OUTRIGGER Kāʻanapali Beach Resort both have robust cultural programs that will teach you all you need to know about canoe crops. Although these resorts are stand-outs they are not the only ones. For the past five years, hotels and resorts across the state have been developing cultural programs to offer their guests educational experiences. When booking your accommodations, check to see if this is part of its amenities.  
• ʻĀina-based organizations: What better way to learn about food than to see how it is grown? At organizations such as Kakoʻoʻoiwi, Mānoa Heritage Center and Hoʻoulu ʻĀina (all on Oʻahu) you can volunteer in the field learning ancient Hawaiian farming practices.  
• Museums: History museums such as The Bishop Museum on Oʻahu offer an in-depth look at Native Hawaiian life (pre-contact) including the history of canoe plants and how they were prepared. 

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   At The Westin Maui Resort & Spa, Ka’anapali, cultural advisor U’i Kahue displays canoe crops, such as ʻuala (pictured here) for guests passing by. Photo by Sarah Burchard.

Taste Hawaiʻi Canoe Crops

Maui

Seascape Restaurant

Seascape is one of the few Hawaiʻi restaurants using canoe crops. Chef Enrique “Henry” Tariga is committed to serving a hyper-local, sustainable menu at his restaurant inside the Maui Ocean Center. He also hand-selects fresh seafood caught by Māʻalaea Harbor fisherman and sources grass-fed meats from local ranches. Try the Kalo Poke Nachos, Upcountry ʻUlu Hummus, Truffle Kalo Fries, Maiʻa Creme Brulee and Mocha ʻUlu Pie. 

House-made ‘ulu hummus with local vegetables and ‘uala and kalo chips at Seascape Restaurant. Photo by Sarah Burchard.

ʻUlu Kitchen

Chef Peter Merriman has been serving farm-to-table cuisine in Hawaiʻi since he opened his first Merrimanʻs restaurant in 1988 on Hawaiʻi Island. He then went on to co-found the Hawaiʻi Regional Cuisine movement in 1991 with 11 other local chefs. These days, Merriman has an empire with stakes in both Merriman’s and Handcrafted Restaurants (HCR). ʻUlu Kitchen, part of HCR, is located at The Westin Maui Resort & Spa in Ka’anapali. Try the Coconut Corn Chowder (with ʻulu), Mushroom Pot Pie (with more ʻulu!) and Maui Nui Venison. 

Chef Peter Merriman has been supporting Hawaiʻi farmers for over 30 years. Courtesy of ‘Ulu Kitchen. Photo by Steve Czerniak.

ʻOkoʻa Farms (Store) – ʻOkoʻa Farms got so busy at the Upcountry farmers market, owner Ryan Earehart opened a store. Inside you’ll find a wide variety of produce, meats and eggs; value-added products such as fresh pressed juices, ground spices, sourdough bread and lots of prepared foods such as cassava bowls with coconut milk, papaya and dragon fruit and taro pudding with guava. Next year, the store will be expanding into the space next door to create a cafeteria-style buffet for take-out. 

ʻOkoʻa Farms boasts one of largest varieties of crops on Maui, including maiʻa (bananas shown here). Photo by Sarah Burchard

Oʻahu

Mud Hen Water – Owner Ed Kenneyʻs first Oʻahu restaurant Town just made Eater’s 38 Most Essential and Influential Restaurants in the Past 20 Years list. The honor is well deserved. Since 2005, Kenney has championed local farms on his menus, and Mud Hen Water, which opened in 2015, is no different. “Mud Hen,” as locals call it, goes a step further by incorporating traditional Hawaiian foods. Try the Pohole, Fried ʻUlu and Heʻe Lūʻau. 

Fete – James Beard Award-winning chef and owner Robynne Maiʻi goes to great lengths to incorporate as many local ingredients on her menu as possible, working with over 30 local farms, ranchers and specialty vendors. Dining at Fete, “French for celebration,” is a joyous affair. The service is fun, the cocktails and wine list are some of the best on island and the bistro-style food will have you craving more. When it’s ʻulu season, try the Aloo ʻUlu. The Kulolo Ice Cream is a must.

The kulolo ice cream at Fete combines locally-made poi, coconut milk and Coruba Jamaican dark rum. Courtesy of Fete Hawaiʻi. Photo by Sean Marrs.

Farmlovers Farmers Markets – There are many Hawaiʻi farmers markets selling canoe crops. You can find poi, ʻulu (when in season), maiʻa, fresh niu and many more local delights every week at farmers markets across the island. The Kakaʻako Farmers Market was voted #3 Best Farmers Market in the US by USA Today.

Find products made with Hawaiian canoe crops, like ʻulu hummus, at Farmlovers Farmers Markets on Oʻahu. Photo by Ketino Photography.

Hawaiʻi Island

Imu Mea ʻAi – Join owner Iopa Maunakea as he leads guests through an immersive Hawaiian cultural experience. Youʻll help build an imu (underground oven), harvest plant materials and prepare dishes for a traditional Hawaiian food lūʻau. Maunakea also leads guests through chanting and Hawaiian protocol and shares ancient wisdom and moʻolelo (stories) as you work and feast. 

Guests can learn how to make a traditional imu during the Imu Mea ʻAi Food Tour on Hawaiʻi Island. Photo courtesy of Imu Mea ʻAi.

The Locavore Store – For over 11 years, The Locavore Store has been the place in Hilo to find just about everything locally-grown on Hawaiʻi Island under one roof. You’ll find kalo, ‘uala, ‘ulu, mai’a and much more (their selection is super impressive). In addition to edible goods, the store also carries local skin care, apparel and gifts. What’s great for visitors is you can also purchase products from the store online. 

Moon & Turtle – Chef and co-owner Mark Pomanski prepares Hawai‘i-Pacific dishes that are simultaneously elevated and humble at this beloved Hilo restaurant. Local ingredients, especially fresh seafood, drive the ever-evolving menu. You never know what Pomanski will be serving next, just prepare to be surprised and delighted. 

The Locavore Store in Hilo carries products from over 270 local Hawaiʻi vendors. Photo courtesy of The Locavore Store.

___________________________________________________________________________

Where Will You Go To Eat Real Hawaiian Food?

Now that you know more about Hawaiian canoe crops and where to taste them, all that’s left is to go eat!

Learning about Hawaiian culture through food will make your vacation meaningful and unforgettable. With options on multiple islands, along with this guide, you can find real Hawaiian food for a more authentic experience.

Happy eating!

The post The Ultimate Guide to Hawaiʻi Canoe Crops appeared first on Hawaii.com.

Courtesy of Hawaiʻi Tourism Authority. Photo by Tor Johnson.

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Every time I travel, I take work with me. It’s the only way I can fit my love for jetsetting into my busy schedule. Luckily, I’m one of those people who enjoy checking email on the beach or in coffee shops.

If you’ve ever turned a pool cabana into your office or joined a Zoom call from a hotel lobby, you’ve engaged in a growing trend called “bleisure.”

Global trends experts Jacob Stand and Miriam Rayman of The Future Laboratory coined the term “bleisure” in their 2009 biannual trend report to describe the popular phenomenon of combining business and leisure travel. Especially popular with millennials—but also embraced by Generation X—bleisure has become a way to find better work-life balance and make the most of business trips.

Bleisure is becoming more popular every year. According to a 2022–2023 bleisure travel market forecast conducted by Allied Market Research, the global bleisure market is projected to reach $731.4 billion by 2032—up 8.9% from $315.3 billion in 2022. Business travelers are increasingly rearranging their schedules to include sightseeing, activities and downtime that allow them to connect with the places they’re visiting—instead of heading straight back to the office.

Have a business trip to Oʻahu coming up?
Consider turning it into a “bizcation” by adding a few days of bleisure.

Which Oʻahu bleisure itinerary is best for me?

If your business takes you to Oʻahu, chances are it will be in town—either at the Hawaiʻi Convention Center or in downtown Honolulu. These itineraries offer bleisure suggestions near both. All recommendations are within walking distance, so you won’t need to rent a car. You can book a shuttle from the airport to your hotel.

Courtesy of Shutterstock. Photo by Vitalii Matokha.

#1 Bleisure Near the Convention Center

Check into the Ala Moana Hotel by Mantra

Ala Moana Hotel is the closest hotel to the Hawaiʻi Convention Center—located right across the street. It’s also ideal for bleisure, just a five-minute walk from the beach and next door to the world’s largest open-air shopping mall. This hotel also features a beautiful pool and a fitness center with steam and sauna rooms.

Dine with a view at The Signature Prime Steak & Seafood, located on the 36th floor of the hotel. They’re famous for their happy hour, so arrive early to beat the line. After dinner, head to Pint + Jigger for cocktails. Owner Dave Newman is a James Beard Award-nominated mixologist known across Hawaiʻi and the U.S. for his hospitality, extensive selection of craft beer and whiskey, and inventive takes on classic cocktails. Try the Prime Thyme or the Talventi if you need a pick me up.

Take a break at Ala Moana Beach Park

Go for a stroll, ride a bike, take a surf lesson, swim, stand-up paddleboard or play tennis—there’s plenty to do at Ala Moana Beach Park and its adjoining Magic Island. The reef-protected waters are calm for swimming, while the surf just beyond the reef is a favorite amongst local surfers. There’s a large sandy beach, plus acres of grass for sunbathing and picnicking.

Hungry? Head to Foodland Farms across the street at the base of Ala Moana Center. Grab poke, salt and vinegar chicken wings, bento boxes and more.

Ala Moana Beach. Courtesy of Shutterstock. Photo by Theodore Trimmer.

Shop, Eat, Drink and Get a Massage at Ala Moana Center

From luxury brands to casual fashion, Ala Moana Center offers hundreds of stores in an open-air mall steps from the beach. For a meal with an ocean view, stop at Ruscello on the lanai for a salad, burger or pasta. If you’re in the mood for something spicy, Sxy Szechuan serves chili-spiked ribs, dumplings and hot and sour soup. For dessert, I love Jejubing Dessert Cafe for Korean-style shave ice. Island Vintage Coffee and The Sunrise Shack, located on the lower level near the food court, serve smoothies, açaí bowls and coffee drinks, all made with high-quality ingredients.

Need a break? Massage Palace, also on the lower level, offers excellent foot and body massages at affordable prices. No reservation needed. (It’s one of my favorite spots on the island for a massage!)

Pint + Jigger, or a “beer and a shot,” is owner Dave Newman’s go-to drink. His bar, located inside The Ala Moana Hotel, combines craft beer and craft cocktails under one roof. Photo by Sarah Burchard.

#2 Bleisure Downtown

Check into AC Hotel Honolulu

If your business brings you downtown, the AC Hotel is one of the best accommodation options. Conveniently located between Chinatown and the Capitol District, it’s within walking distance of the Hawaiʻi State Capitol, ʻIolani Palace, Honolulu Hale (City Hall), Hawaiʻi Theatre, Capitol Modern (State of Hawaiʻi Museum of Art), galleries, shopping, nightlife and many of Honolulu’s top restaurants.

The hotel is also home to The Dotted Line, a popular spot for power lunches and dinners, and Yours Truly, a basement-level speakeasy known for some of the most creative cocktails in town.

Meet your colleagues at AC Hotel’s power lunch/dinner restaurant, The Dotted Line. Photo courtesy of The Dotted Line.

Frequent Remote Work–Friendly Coffee Shops

Need a break from working in your hotel room? Chinatown offers several laptop-friendly coffee shops with free Wi-Fi. Just like at home, be respectful of the space—plan to purchase at least one item per hour you spend working.

Hello Again has cozy desks with outlets. Try the Cardamom Rose Latte or the Iced Mood Ring. PŌʻAI by Pono Potions is known for house-made syrups crafted from local ingredients. Co-owner Peter Hessler, a former bartender, brings a mixologist’s touch to every drink. Order the Pauahi Latte with caramelized mac nuts, and grab a slice of banana-ʻulu bread from ʻUlu & Kalo Bakery at the register. Like a splash of bourbon in your morning coffee? Check out Manifest, which transforms from café by day to music venue and cocktail bar by night. It has ample seating, espresso drinks and a full bar—ideal for an afternoon escape. Finally, Drip Studio – the mecca of specialty coffee in the neighborhood – is where you should go if you like a good pour over. Drip also offers its own brand of matcha, house-made pastries, a lunch menu and nonalcoholic coffee cocktails.

Take a Shopping Break or Go on a Tour of Chinatown

Be sure to wander through the produce, meat and fish markets in Chinatown. Around the intersection of Maunakea and North Hotel streets, you’ll find tiny bakeries, dim sum spots, noodle shops and unique gift stores. You can also take a Chinatown Food Tour where you’ll learn the rich culture of the neighborhood while sampling locally grown fruit, poke, dumplings, manapua and more.

For hand-printed aloha shirts, visit Hawaiian-owned Sig on Smith (open Fridays only) or Roberta Oaks. Plant and jewelry lovers should stop by Ginger 13, while vintage seekers will enjoy Single Double. For artisanal leather goods, check out Hook & Hide.

Before heading off to bed. Cap the evening off with a whimsical cocktail at Yours Truly. Photo courtesy of Yours Truly.

Eat + Drink

Just a few blocks from AC Hotel, you’ll find a world of great dining options. Fête and its sister bakery Mille Fête, co-owned by James Beard Award–winning chef Robynne Maiʻi, serve up classic dishes done exceptionally well in a friendly, casual setting. For inventive Italian-Asian dishes, head to Giovedi—named Best New Restaurant this year by Honolulu Magazine and Bon Appétit (you may even see me working here on Saturday nights).

Pizza Mamo is a must for Detroit-style pizza, and their sister restaurant, The Daley, located just around the corner, serves up crave-worthy smashburgers and fries. Don’t skip the chocolate chip cookie for dessert.

For spicy, hand-pulled biangbiang noodles and addictive chicken wings, try Youpo Noodles. And if you’re in the mood for Thai, Sing Sing Thai Street Food has some of the best on island. That’s because the chef and co-owner trained in home kitchens across Thailand.

Why work at home, when you can work from anywhere in the world? Photo courtesy of AC Hotel Honolulu.

The post How To Master The Art of Bleisure on O’ahu appeared first on Hawaii.com.

NEA Jazz Master Delfeayo Marsalis. Photo by Kenneth Martinez Burgmaier

As a filmmaker, Kenneth Martinez Burgmaier traveled to more than 60 countries filming music festivals. He was especially fond of jazz and blues festivals, but never saw one come to Hawaiʻi, where he has lived for the past 30 years. So he decided to create his own.

Today, Burgmaier has produced more than 75 jazz and blues festivals over 25 years across four Hawaiian islands.

From Oct. 20–26, the Maui Jazz & Blues Festival returns to Kapalua. The weeklong event takes place at The Ritz-Carlton Maui, Kapalua, known for its world-class hospitality and support for the arts. The festival features Grammy Award-winning musicians and internationally renowned instrumentalists performing jazz, blues and Cajun zydeco — a fusion of Cajun and zydeco music played with accordion, fiddles, washboards and French lyrics.

Burgmaier also hosts “Jazz Alley TV,” a jazz, blues and world music television series that has been airing for 35 years. The show sponsors Burgmaier’s Jazz & Blues Festivals, hosted annually on Hawaiʻi Island at Mauna Kea Beach Hotel; on Maui at The Ritz-Carlton Maui, Kapalua; on Oʻahu at The Ritz-Carlton Oʻahu, Turtle Bay; and on Lānaʻi at Four Seasons Resort Lānaʻi. He said attendees include a mix of Hawaiʻi residents and visitors from California, New York, Japan and beyond.

Grammy-winning saxophonist Eric Marienthal Photo by Kenneth Martinez Burgmaier

Grammy-winning saxophonist Eric Marienthal, a regular at the Big Island Jazz & Music Festival, will perform on Maui for the first time this year. He said he’s excited to reunite with local Hawaiʻi musicians as well as New Orleans band The Iguanas.

Marienthal, who frequently performs on cruise ships and at venues around the world, said Hawaiʻi offers a unique experience.

“Hawaiʻi is a special place to get to play,” he said. “It’s inclusive, loving, open … an environment for musicians to feel comfortable to play their music.”

This year, Burgmaier is capping attendance at 1,000 people to preserve an intimate atmosphere. In past years, the festival has drawn as many as 3,500 attendees to the pavilion at The Ritz-Carlton, which Burgmaier said felt too large. He’s especially excited to bring Cajun zydeco to Hawaiʻi — a genre rarely heard outside of Louisiana.

Two of the featured Cajun zydeco musicians, Wilson Savoy and Jourdan Thibodeaux, were recently featured on  “60 Minutes”  in a segment about preserving Cajun musical traditions – one that stretches back eight generations in Savoy’s family. On the show, Thibodeaux spoke passionately about cultural survival.

“You either live your culture or you kill your culture,” Thibodeaux said. “There is no in-between.”

He said the phrase, which he incorporates into his lyrics (in French), reflects the homogenizing effects of globalization. He believes it’s everyone’s responsibility to hold onto their identity — and he recommits every day to “live his culture.”

One of the festival’s most beloved moments, Burgmaier said, is the final jam session on closing night, when all the musicians return to the stage for a hana hou (encore) — a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

In support of local residents impacted by the 2023 Maui wildfires, the Maui Jazz & Blues Festival and The Ritz-Carlton Maui, Kapalua, are donating more than 100 festival tickets to fire survivors in Lahaina.

“I am honored to bring the Maui Jazz & Blues Festival back to the west side of Maui,” Burgmaier said in a recent press release. “After everything this community has been through, we’re ready to turn up the volume and deliver an epic weekend of world-class music and good vibes.”

NEA Jazz Master and Big Chief Donald Harrison. Photo by Kenneth Martinez Burgmaier.

Maui Jazz & Blues Festival Schedule

Friday, Oct. 3
Festival Kickoff Concert
Featuring Grammy winner and NEA Jazz Master Delfeayo Marsalis and the Royal Family of Jazz
6–9 p.m.
Alaloa Lounge, The Ritz-Carlton Maui, Kapalua
Free

Monday, Oct. 20
Maui Jazz & Blues Festival Band
Featuring Fast Freddy and the Blue Lava Blues Quartet
6–9 p.m.
Alaloa Lounge
Free

Tuesday, Oct. 21
Celebrate Women in Jazz & Blues
With the Maui Jazz & Blues Wahine Trio:
Dr. Joie Taylor (saxophone), Nā Hōkū winner Louise Lambert (piano), Andrea Walls (violin)
6–9 p.m.
Alaloa Lounge
Free

Wednesday, Oct. 22
Maui Jazz & Blues Fest Trio
Featuring Grammy-winning Hawaiian singer-songwriter Kalani Peʻa, Grammy-nominated Mark Johnstone, and special appearances by other Grammy-winning jazz artists
6–9 p.m.
Alaloa Lounge
Free

Thursday, Oct. 23
Cajun Zydeco Blues Jubilee
Featuring Grammy winner Wilson Savoy, Cajun ambassador Jourdan Thibodeaux, Grammy-nominated Roddie Romero, Chris Thomas King, Mark Johnstone, Dave Graber, and Alex Keeney
6–9 p.m.
Alaloa Lounge
$10 per person

Friday, Oct. 24
New Orleans JazzFest Experience
With The Iguanas, Eric Marienthal, Grammy-winning trombonist Charlie Halloran, and JazzFest musicians
6–9 p.m.
Alaloa Lounge
$10 per person

Saturday, Oct. 25
Main Festival Event
Featuring:

• Eric Marienthal (Grammy-winning saxophonist)

• Chris Thomas King (Grammy & CMA-winning blues guitarist and actor)

• The Cajun Zydeco Experience

• Wilson Savoy, Jourdan Thibodeaux, Roddie Romero

• The Iguanas

• Donald Harrison (NEA Jazz Master and Treme star)

• Zenshin Daiko Drummers

• Maui Jazz & Blues Festival Band

4:30–9 p.m.
Aloha Garden Pavilion, The Ritz-Carlton Maui, Kapalua
General admission: $145
VIP: $245 (includes preferred seating)
VIP table for 10: $2,000 (ideal for groups or corporate)
Adults 21+ only

Sunday, Oct. 26
Jazz Brunch
Featuring performances by the Maui Jazz & Blues Festival Band with Donald Harrison, Charlie Halloran and Joe Cabral of The Iguanas.
Menu includes blackened shrimp and grits, gumbo, muffaletta sandwiches, crawfish mac and cheese, beignets and more.

11 a.m.–2 p.m.
Ulana Terrace, The Ritz-Carlton Maui, Kapalua
$95 for adults
$35 for children ages 6–12
$15 for children 5 and under
Reservations: OpenTable or call 808-665-7089
Kamaʻāina discount available

Purchase Tickets at MauiJazzandBluesFestival.com

The post Maui Jazz & Blues Festival Returns to Kapalua appeared first on Hawaii.com.

Photo by Sarah Burchard

Despite what you see in the grocery store, there are thousands of varieties of bananas. Hawaiʻi has at least 150 of them. If you’ve only had the ubiquitous cavendish, it’s time to expand your horizons. 

On September 21, Slow Food Oʻahu will host its annual Banana Festival, or Ka Mai‘a ‘Ho‘olaule‘a. The event celebrates one of Hawaiʻi’s original canoe crops with chef tastings, banana stalk printing, a banana cook-off and a tasting station featuring a diverse selection of bananas in different flavors, colors, sizes and textures. The festival will be held at Windward Community College from 10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., with a special presentation by Gabe Sacher-Smith, owner of Hawaii Banana Source and co-sponsor of the festival, at 1 p.m. Guests can purchase tickets online for $10 or at the door for $12. Children under 12 get in for free. 

Sacher-Smith said he expects to have around 15 varieties for guests to taste, maybe more if you count the bunches galore that will be hanging around the perimeter of the festival. It really is a sight to behold. 

Photo by Sarah Burchard

Where do bananas come from?

Visitors to Hawaiʻi may be surprised to know that bananas – maiʻa in Hawaiian – are more local than pineapple. Neither are indigenous to the Hawaiian Islands, but bananas arrived with the first Polynesians – by way of Southeast Asia – in the 13th century, whereas pineapple – native to Brazil and Paraguay – was introduced by a Spanish advisor to the King in the early 1800s. The pineapple industry, established in the 1880s, may have been an economic boon to the islands until 2008, but bananas still flourish islandwide. According to the Hawaiʻi Department of Agriculture, Hawaiʻi grew 4.73 million pounds of bananas in 2023.

What types of bananas grow in Hawaiʻi?

The apple banana, with its signature tart green apple flavor, is the most widely known and grown in Hawaiʻi. Sacher-Smith said no other variety even comes close. But take a walk on his farm on the North Shore of Oʻahu and you will find varieties such as red cuban, rose, yangambi, racadag, namwah, ice cream, silk, goldfinger, iholena, pōpō ʻulu, saba, pineapple, mysore, maoli, bluefield, praying hands, tuu ghia, pisang lilin, williams and red burro. He even grows gros michele – the original ubiquitous banana before the Panama disease wiped out commercial production in Central and South America in the mid 20th century – and, of course, cavendish. 

Photo by Sarah Burchard

What can I expect to find at the Banana Festival?

There is so much to experience at the Banana Festival. Whether you are there to geek out, buy your first banana plant or just eat, the festival will keep you engaged all afternoon.  

Bananas to eat

• Local chefs will serve a variety of banana dishes from sweet to savory. Ever try banana blossoms or banana stems? Here is your chance. 
• The banana tasting table is your opportunity to sample over a dozen of locally-grown banana varieties. 
• The Great Banana Cook-Off invites all cooks, professional and home-based, to create something innovative and delicious for a special prize. 

Photo by Sarah Burchard

Bananas as art

• At the mai‘a stalk printing booth you can bring a shirt or tote bag (or buy one at the festival) to stamp. Banana stalks make beautiful patterns! 
• Learn a Samoan dyeing technique using kapa (traditional cloth made of bark) and purple feʻi banana sap. 
• Practice lauhala (dried leaf weaving) and banana fiber weaving. Traditionally, black (ele ele) banana fiber was woven with lauhala (the dried leaf of the pandanus tree).

Photo by Sarah Burchard

Learn about bananas

• Attend a one-hour lecture presented by banana expert Gabe Sacher-Smith on best growing practices, banana biodiversity, botanical history, cultivation and culinary uses of bananas.

Buy Bananas

• Purchase banana plants or bananas by the bunch. 

• Also for sale: banana books, t-shirts and more.

Photo by Sarah Burchard

Event Details

Date: Sunday, Sept. 21.

Time: 10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.

Location: Windward Community College

Cost:

$10 in advance (bring printed ticket receipt for entry)

$12 at the door

Children under 12 are free.

The post Eat Local: Oʻahu’s Banana Festival Serves Over a Dozen Varieties  appeared first on Hawaii.com.

Courtesy of Shangri La.

When you think of Hawaiʻi, your mind probably drifts to turquoise waves, swaying palms and endless sunshine. But tucked away near Diamond Head in Honolulu is something  unexpected: a dazzling mansion filled with centuries-old Islamic art, Moorish architecture and Moroccan tilework that looks like it belongs in a sultan’s palace. This isShangri La, a hidden cultural gem and  museum  ofIslamic design.

Beginning October 6, Shangri La is opening its gates wider than ever before with a brand-new Saturday tour hosted by the Bishop Museum. The new tour increases opportunities to visit Shangri La, joining the line-up of Thursday and Friday tours run by the Honolulu Museum of Art (HoMA). Kamaʻāina tickets remain $20 for Thursday and Friday tours from HoMA and $25 for Saturday tours from Bishop Museum, while general admission for non-residents is $45. Starting September 4, tickets will be released monthly, on the first Thursday of every month at 10 a.m. HST, on the Shangri La website. The new schedule replaces the previous quarterly release, making it easier for last-minute planners to snag a spot. Book your tickets early; they go fast. 

Courtesy of Shangri La.

A Heiress, a Honeymoon and a Lifelong Passion

The story of Shangri La begins with Doris Duke — a billionaire heiress to a tobacco fortune, philanthropist, and world traveler born in 1912. In 1935, during a honeymoon trip around the world, Duke was captivated by the intricate tilework, lush gardens and serene courtyards of the Islamic architecture she encountered in North Africa, the Middle East, and South Asia — particularly in Iran, India, and Egypt.

When she began designing her dream home in Honolulu, she fused these artistic traditions with Hawaiʻi’s natural beauty. Over the next several decades, Duke collected more than 4,000 pieces of Islamic art and design, transforming her private residence into a living museum of global culture — complete with a Mughal-inspired bedroom, Syrian tile panels and Moroccan courtyards that feel lifted from a fairytale.

From Private Sanctuary to Public Treasure

When Doris Duke passed away in 1993, she left behind more than a home — she left a mission. In her will, she gifted Shangri La and its extraordinary collection to the Doris Duke Foundation for Islamic Art, ensuring it would be preserved and shared with the public. In 2002, the estate opened its doors for guided tours, inviting visitors to experience this one-of-a-kind art and architecture.

What makes Shangri La so unique isn’t just its world-class collection — it’s the setting. With the Pacific shimmering at its doorstep and the cliffs of Oʻahu’s southern coast rising behind it, the ornate calligraphy, vivid ceramic mosaics and hand-carved wooden mashrabiya screens feel even more enchanting. It’s the last thing you expect on an island known for its iconic surf and bountiful  lūʻau, but that’s exactly what makes it unforgettable.

Courtesy of Shangri La.

Visiting Shangri La

Tours depart from either HoMA (for Thursday and Friday tours) or Bishop Museum (for Saturday tours). Every 75-minute tour includes round-trip shuttle transportation and admission to Shangri La. And here’s a feel-good detail: all net proceeds from the tours support arts programming at both HoMA and Bishop Museum, reinvesting directly into Hawai‘i’s cultural community.

Whether you’re marveling at a jewel-toned courtyard, tracing the curves of centuries-old calligraphy or soaking up the ocean views from the lanai, you’ll find yourself transported far beyond the shoreline.

Doris Duke didn’t just collect art — she built a home to honor it, and in doing so, created a bridge between two worlds. Today, thanks to the combined efforts of HoMA and Bishop Museum, that bridge spans wider than ever. All you have to do is step across.

Purchase Tickets for Shangri La

The post Shangri La: How to Visit Oʻahu’s Hidden Treasure appeared first on Hawaii.com.

It’s been nearly a year since Alaska Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines officially merged, closing one of the biggest airline deals in two decades. If you’re like me and loved the little perks of Hawaiian airlines, including free Starlink, POG, and a cookie at landing, you likely wondered if things were about to change. With integration well underway and the dust beginning to settle, we wanted to provide an update and share our thoughts on who benefits most from the merger—and who may see some drawbacks. Let’s dive in.

Expanded Route Network and More Destinations

The combined airline now serves 141 nonstop destinations, including 29 international routes. Honolulu has emerged as a major hub, making it easier to connect to Asia, the South Pacific and the U.S. mainland.

For Oʻahu visitors, this means more nonstop flight options, better scheduling and smoother connections. Whether you’re flying in from Los Angeles, Seattle or Tokyo, expect more convenience getting into Honolulu International Airport.

Loyalty Programs and Atmos Rewards

As of August 20, HawaiianMiles and Alaska’s Mileage Plan have officially merged into Atmos Rewards. Travelers can now choose how they earn points—by miles flown, ticket spend, or even number of segments.

For frequent visitors to Oʻahu, this means you can build points on short interisland hops, long-haul flights to the continental U.S., or premium routes like Honolulu to Tokyo. Perks include:

• 1:1 point transfer between legacy accounts
• Elite status matches
• A new premium credit card with lounge access and companion benefits
• Free Starlink Wi-Fi for Atmos members starting in 2026

JetBlue Partnership Ending Soon

If you’ve been booking Oʻahu trips using JetBlue TrueBlue points, take note: the Hawaiian–JetBlue partnership is ending. You must book flights by September 30, 2025, and travel by March 31, 2026, to use points. After that, Atmos Rewards is your only loyalty option.

Seasonal Boost in Honolulu Flights

Good news for peak-season travelers: Hawaiian Airlines is adding extra flights to and from Honolulu this winter.

• Honolulu – Sydney: daily service Dec 18, 2025 – Jan 31, 2026
• Honolulu – Los Angeles: five daily flights during Thanksgiving and Christmas holiday periods
• Honolulu – Seattle: four daily flights, including new Boeing 787 service to Tokyo with upgraded suites

This expanded schedule makes it easier to snag a flight to Oahu even during high-demand holidays.

Key Policy Changes Travelers Should Know

Alongside the perks, there are some changes to watch:

• New No-Show Policy: Miss your flight without canceling? You’ll forfeit the value of your ticket.
• Seat Together Protections: Families are guaranteed seating together without paying extra.
• Job Cuts Behind the Scenes: A handful of Hawaii-based jobs have been eliminated, but interisland service remains protected by regulators.
• Leadership Shifts in Honolulu: Alaska has installed new management to oversee Hawaiian operations, so expect more streamlined check-in and customer service improvements.

Winners and Losers of the Hawaiian-Alaska Merger

So who comes out ahead—and who may feel the squeeze?

Winners

• Oʻahu travelers benefit from more flight options, especially during holidays.
• Frequent flyers enjoy flexible loyalty perks under Atmos Rewards.
• Families have better seating protections and expanded interisland reliability.

Potential Losers

• Travelers loyal to JetBlue must adjust quickly before the partnership ends.
• Price-sensitive travelers could see higher fares on busy Oʻahu routes as competition narrows.

Final Take: A Net Positive for Travelers

Overall, the Alaska–Hawaiian Airlines merger has been a net win for travelers. Expanded route access, a stronger loyalty ecosystem, and new consumer protections create more opportunities for both residents and visitors to Hawaiʻi. Still, with some job cuts, stricter fare rules, and fewer competitors, not every outcome is rosy.

For now, though, the combined carrier looks well-positioned to serve Hawaiʻi and beyond— making it easier than ever to connect the Hawaiian Islands with the rest of the world.

The post What the Alaska–Hawaiian Airlines Merger Means for Travelers appeared first on Hawaii.com.

41st Okinawan Festival. Photo by Cliff Kimura.

Guests can purchase Okinawan foods, crafts and bingata (a traditional Okinawan fabric design) clothing at the Okinawan Festival. Photo by Cliff Kimura.

The Hawaii United Okinawa Association (HUOA) was established as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization in 1951, originally under the name United Okinawan Association of Hawai‘i. The organization consisted of 50 clubs, each organized by the towns in Okinawa from which its members originated, to provide a support system for the Okinawan community.

According to Tamashiro, the catalyst for forming a unified organization was that the U.S. military administration at the time did not want to communicate with each club individually. In 1995, the organization was renamed the Hawaii United Okinawa Association. Today, HUOA continues its mission to promote and preserve Okinawan culture in Hawai‘i.

This year’s Okinawan Festival marks two major milestones: the 125th anniversary of Okinawan immigration to Hawai‘i and the 40th anniversary of the sister-state relationship between Hawai‘i and Okinawa. To commemorate the occasion, Okinawa’s governor and 40 of the island’s 41 mayors will travel to Oʻahu to attend the festival.

Tamashiro is creating a poster series to highlight the achievements of Okinawans in Hawai‘i over the past 125 years. Among the stories she will share is that of Shigeru Serikaku, an uchinanchu from Waipahu, who built and flew an airplane in Hawai‘i just 14 years after the Wright brothers’ first flight in North Carolina.

Proceeds from the Okinawan Festival support several HUOA cultural programs, including the Hawai‘i–Okinawa High School Student Exchange Program and the Children’s Cultural Day Camp, known as Warabi Ashibi.

Photo by Cliff Kimura.

Following the festival, guests can continue to engage with Okinawan culture during the Okinawan FEASTival taking place Sept. 1–15. Participating restaurants on Oʻahu will feature Okinawan dishes and ingredients on their menus. Okinawan-owned Aloha Tofu will offer jimami tofu (Okinawan peanut tofu), a popular item that typically sells out quickly at their booth during the Okinawan Festival.

Festival hours:

Saturday, Aug. 30 – 9:00 a.m.– 5:00 p.m., Bon Dance – 5:30 to 9:00 p.m.,

Sunday, Aug. 31 – 9:00 a.m.– 4:00 p.m.

Ticket information:

Early Admission: Saturday 8/30 and Sunday 8/31 from 9am-10am
Available for pre-sale (via credit/debit card); quantities limited, sales at the door while supplies
last.

• Single-day Early Admission

  • Adults: $15 / Seniors 65+: $10

  • Children 12 and under FREE

• Two-day Early Admission (valid for early admission on both days)

  • Adults: $25 ($30 value) / Seniors 65+: $15 ($20 value)

  • Children 12 and under FREE

General Admission: Saturday 8/30 and Sunday 8/31 from 10am-4pm

• Single-day General Admission

  • Adults: $10 / Seniors 65+: $5

  • Children 12 and under FREE

• Two-day General Admission (valid for general admission on both days)

  • Adults: $16 ($20 value) / Seniors 65+: $8 ($10 value)

  • Children 12 and under FREE

The post Honolulu’s Okinawan Festival Celebrates the Spirit of a Community appeared first on Hawaii.com.

Papi’s Ohana has become a breakfast pilgrimage for locals and visitors alike, thanks to its “King David” cinnamon rolls.

When does a cinnamon roll become a sacrament? A sacrament that gets you out of bed before sunrise—and has you standing in line for over an hour, no less? The answer: when it comes out of the ovens at Papi’s Ohana.

Papi’s Ohana is a hole-in-the-wall bakery by day and pizzeria by night, owned by devout bakers and Christians David and Linda Escobar. Located on the main drag of Honokōwai, a small town just north of Kā‘anapali Beach, Papi’s Ohana is a breakfast pilgrimage for locals and visitors alike, thanks to its “King David” cinnamon rolls—a sumptuous creation that takes three days to make and beckons salivating patrons like a pastor summoning their congregation to Sunday church. With its flaky, buttery lamination and a circumference roughly the size of your head, it’s well worth the $10 price tag.

Papi’s Ohana went through many iterations before finding its brick-and-mortar home on Maui’s west side. It began as a humble living room ministry on Wednesday nights for prayer, pastries and fellowship. Then came the idea of a food truck. Then a beachside property in Kīhei. But a chance encounter with a commercial realtor—and a calling to serve the people of Lahaina—motivated David Escobar, a former pastry chef at Grand Wailea, to move his family and plant roots on the West Side. The risk paid off. Papi’s Ohana opened in July 2022 and was an overnight success.

“It was a blessing,” David Escobar said. “As much as I was dreading the drive [to Lahaina], I felt like God wanted me here.”

But just after the bakery’s first anniversary, the Escobars’ celebration darkened with disaster when Lahaina was struck by wildfires on Aug. 8, 2023. Escobar knew he needed to be with his newfound community. The day after the fire, he and his crew snuck through police barricades to the bakery. He said there were people living in the parking lot, walking around in shock. Despite having no electricity, Escobar fired up the gas oven and got to work. That day, Papi’s Ohana served 150 cinnamon rolls.

“We had all these kids coming in,” he said. “I mean, everybody started smelling it. And this whole thing was packed out. And we all held hands and started crying with each other and hugging.”

Co-owner David Escobar calls Papi’s Ohana his ministry.

Today, when the bakery opens at 7 a.m., the line already stretches across the parking lot, curling along Lower Honoapiʻilani Road, at least 75 people deep. Consider it your penance. But don’t be deterred—your saccharine salvation is worth the hour-and-a-half wait. Just be sure to get in line by 9 a.m., or you risk being turned away. Papi’s Ohana usually sells out of cinnamon rolls by 10 a.m. On my last visit, the first person in line said he queued up at 5:25 a.m. He was out the door with his buns by 7:10 a.m.

Once inside the cinnamon roll sanctuary, you’re hit with the sweet, yeasty aroma of a proper bake shop. Alongside its signature rolls are mango-flavored scones dripping with coconut glaze and savory croissants filled with Spam, jalapeño and Swiss cheese. Linda Escobar greets guests with a warm smile behind the cash register, while her husband stands at his pastry pulpit, slathering cream cheese frosting—and blessings—onto each cinnamon roll. Modern Christian worship music plays through the speakers.

David Escobar calls the bakery his ministry. Whether he’s serving a gluten-free guest sneaking a few bites of pizza, a hoard of local keiki chanting “CIN-NA-MON ROLLS!” to their parents’ dismay, or a man who claims Escobar’s smile changed his life, Papi’s Ohana offers a special kind of service for anyone who walks through its doors. You don’t have to be a believer to eat at Papi’s—but you better believe it delivers a bite you’ll never forget.

Papi’s Ohana, Open Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday from 7 a.m. until sold out.
Pizzeria: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday, 5–9 p.m., Closed Wednesday, Saturday and Sunday, (808) 868-2000, 3481 Lower Honoapiʻilani Road, #B102, Lahaina, HI 96761.

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