If you're the least bit arachnophobic, you probably wouldn't enjoy reading a post about spiders. But what if I told you just the sight of these Hawaiian spiders would brighten your day?
The Happy Face Spider wears just that on its abdomen, a happy face! Down to the very fine details of arched eyebrows and a bright smiling mouth, there's no question how this little guy got its name. It's known to roam the rain forests on O‘ahu, Maui, Moloka‘i and the Big Island and is actually endemic to the islands, which means it's not naturally found anywhere else in the world.
Hikers might see the spiders hiding on the undersides of leaves. That's where they build their delicate webs and catch their prey. These tiny arachnids only grow to be a few millimeters big, so you might need a magnifying glass to see the smiley face.
The good news is that they're not poisonous to humans. Each spider tends to look differently from one another, depending on which island they're on; some don't have any markings at all. Some, I've heard, have markings that go against their name; instead of a smiling face, they wear a frown.
I'm still on the hunt to see a Happy Face Spider up close. As a kid, I remember reading a picture book about them and drawing pictures of the spiders for class. I've yet to find one. What amazes me most is how such a small spider can be classified as one of nature's most magnificent creatures. On an unrelated note, a person swallows an average of eight spiders in his/her sleep. Let's just hope it's not one of these little guys!
Since 2006 Bruce Fisher has been publishing the Hawaii Vacation Blog and the Hawaii Vacation Connection Podcast which, create daily content about Hawaii Travel and Tourism. This Blog is the only online resource providing Hawaii-based information aimed at travelers seven days per week. Postings reflect the Hawaiian Islands, their culture and their lifestyle as accurately and thoroughly as possible.
If you’ve ever heard of Alan Davis (A.D.’s), you’d know about the smooth log hinged in between the boulders; the telephone-pole-type log that so many people have walked the plank across, before jumping into the serene tide pool below.
But where did the log go? Last week, my boyfriend and I hiked to this spot beneath the popular Makapu‘u Lighthouse hike, only to find that the pole was gone! Supposedly, it was removed a year ago, and there were rumors of injuries. However – according to Hawaii News Now – there were no reports of any injuries, and the state was not responsible for removing it, so the whereabouts of this famous pole remains a mystery.
Nevertheless, this hike is still intact and is actually pretty easy to do. Many consider it more of a walk because it takes about 10 to 15 minutes one way and is mostly flat.
You'll notice that after the lighthouse trailhead sign, the path veers off to the right into some dried brush. This path will take you to A.D.'s and is clearly laid out. But be warned that the ground is uneven with rocks in the beginning, and there’s also no shade. Bring water, a hat, sunglasses, sunscreen and even an umbrella if you plan on having a picnic by the beach.
This hike is part of the state park called Ka‘iwi State Scenic Shoreline. Ka‘iwi in Hawaiian means “bones." And there's definitely been some ancient Hawaiian remains found here at one point or another, so please be respectful and don’t litter or do anything you wouldn't do to your own home.
Once you reach the end of the trail, you’ll see a sandy beach to the right with kid-friendly tidepools. To the left is where the telephone pole used to be. Above is a natural rock formation known as Pele’s chair, where according to Hawaiian mythology was the last place Pele lived before going to the Big Island. You may even see some schools of fish if you bring snorkeling gear. The water gets deeper as you swim farther out from the shoreline, near the naturally-forming rock wall. Be careful though, because the other side of the wall can be dangerous due to strong surf and currents.
Even though the famous pole has vanished from A.D.'s, the area remains as beautiful as ever. I still find it a peaceful walk with an even more pleasant view. You can easily see the east side of the island, especially on those clear Kona wind days. The water looks tranquil and glassy, and the sun hazy up above. Enjoy this hike, and be sure to take in all the beauty around you.
Since 2006 Bruce Fisher has been publishing the Hawaii Vacation Blog and the Hawaii Vacation Connection Podcast which, create daily content about Hawaii Travel and Tourism. This Blog is the only online resource providing Hawaii-based information aimed at travelers seven days per week. Postings reflect the Hawaiian Islands, their culture and their lifestyle as accurately and thoroughly as possible.
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service announced yesterday 23 more species listed as endangered on O‘ahu, joining 437 others in the Hawaiian Islands. This is the highest number for any state, and it's what researchers attribute to Hawai‘i's isolation from the mainland, invasive and nonnative plants and urban development.
Both the oceanic damselfly (top) and blackline damselfly (bottom) have been added to the list of endangered species in Hawai‘i.
The newly-listed species include herbs, shrubs, ferns, trees and three species of damselflies. The Hawaiian damselfly, blackline Hawaiian damselfly and the oceanic Hawaiian damselfly will now be protected under the Endangered Species Act. I have a friend who works everyday to protect Hawai‘i's endangered species as part of his job at a nature conservancy program. He installs fences to prevent feral animals, such as goats and pigs, from trampling on native plants and also mentioned that the forest becomes more native, the higher up you go.
More than 42,000 acres on O‘ahu – in seven different ecosystems – have been identified as "critical habitats" for such species. These include native ferns, vines, shrubs, grasses, trees and herbs. The Fish and Wildlife Service will start taking a holistic approach to conservation by restoring these important ecosystems.
This native ‘ohe plant is also an endangered species.
As a visitor to the islands, it's always important to become educated on issues like this. Not only will you encounter them on a hike through the many native forests here but also on a stroll through a park or a neighborhood. It may also be worth checking out possible volunteer opportunities with local nature organizations, as a way to really get up-close-and-personal with some of Hawai‘i's most precious species.
Photos Courtesy: U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Dan Polhemus (first); Ane Bakutis (second)
Since 2006 Bruce Fisher has been publishing the Hawaii Vacation Blog and the Hawaii Vacation Connection Podcast which, create daily content about Hawaii Travel and Tourism. This Blog is the only online resource providing Hawaii-based information aimed at travelers seven days per week. Postings reflect the Hawaiian Islands, their culture and their lifestyle as accurately and thoroughly as possible.
Hikers familiar with the Diamond Head trail know all too well those 99 heart-pumping steps. They're the ultimate test of your willpower before going through the bunkers and reaching the very top of the crater. Luckily for your quads, there's now an easier way to get to the summit, and technically, it's about 15 steps shorter.
Hikers can go left after the tunnel for an easier way to the top (top). Or challenge their legs with those 99 steps (bottom).
Less than a year ago, the state opened a new section to the trail that's wider and safer for hikers. After the tunnel and at the base of the 99 steps, it loops around the summit toward the ocean before linking up with the original trail to the lookout. I finally had the chance to test out the new route, and let me tell you – on a windless day in the crater – it would be a welcomed relief to any hiker! The walkway's all nicely paved with handrails on both sides. There's also a new lookout platform from which to get the best view of Koko Head.
The idea is to have visitors go up the old stairway and back down on the new pathway. I saw hikers going in both directions so it doesn't seem to be that strictly enforced (yet?). But with roughly 4,000 people conquering the crater every day, there will be less traffic jams like before. I remember there being so many people on the 99 steps at once, that it was difficult for anyone to move past each other. Needless to say, that's become a safety issue overtime, especially because of how steep the steps are.
And no matter which way you choose to get to the top, it's the panoramic view of O‘ahu's southern shoreline that makes it all worth it.
DIAMOND HEAD SUMMIT TRAIL / Honolulu, HI 96815 (Map) / Opens daily (including holidays) 6am-6pm / Entrance fee: $5 per car, $1 per pedestrian / Easy-medium, marked, partially-paved trail / 808-587-0825
Since 2006 Bruce Fisher has been publishing the Hawaii Vacation Blog and the Hawaii Vacation Connection Podcast which, create daily content about Hawaii Travel and Tourism. This Blog is the only online resource providing Hawaii-based information aimed at travelers seven days per week. Postings reflect the Hawaiian Islands, their culture and their lifestyle as accurately and thoroughly as possible.
Many remember Mānoa Falls from the movie, Jurassic Park. But although dinosaurs no longer roam here, the hike at the back of the valley is still a popular destination for those eager to see a waterfall. Mind you, it's not just any waterfall; it's the tallest and most accessible one on O‘ahu – at 150 feet.
So, you want to see a waterfall?
The beginning of the trial takes hikers through a vast, open space of greenery, with surrounding trees as tall as the falls itself. Close your eyes and imagine the lush forest during a more prehistoric time, when velociraptors and t-rexes rambled throughout the giant ferns and fallen trees. Or…perhaps this is more like a scene from Jurassic Park. Lost fans might even recall seeing this valley on the television series, as it had also been a common location for filming.
VIDEO: A slippery day at Mānoa Falls.
The trail is about 1.5 miles roundtrip and can be slippery if it's been raining, which is often the case in a rainforest. Don't be fooled, however, by the weather. It could be sunny in Waikīkī but rainy in the valley, so it's best to be prepared. Wear comfortable hiking shoes and bring a poncho/umbrella and insect repellent. (Mosquitoes love wet weather.)
Overall, the hike is easy but does have slight inclines from time to time. I'd say it's most challenging on rainy or muddy days because of how slippery the trail may get. There's a section of the hike that looks like a path of horizontal steps; be extra careful here, as it's easy to lose your balance. But I can assure you, it'll be all worth it once you reach the waterfall!
Banyans have many purposes. This particular tree is an entryway into the forest.
The water cascades below from the mountain into a small pool. Usually after heavy rains, the falls is raging. But if you go during the hot summer months, you may only find a slim trickle. I wouldn't suggest swimming in the pool in case of rock slides and leptospirosis contamination. It's best just to take a couple of photos and enjoy the serene valley of Mānoa.
MĀNOA FALLS HIKE / 3860 Mānoa Rd., Honolulu, HI 96822 (Map)/ 1.5-miles roundtrip / Difficulty: Easy / Hike with a buddy, water, snacks, cell & flashlight / Parking in lot; $5 (visitor) $3 (locals)
Since 2006 Bruce Fisher has been publishing the Hawaii Vacation Blog and the Hawaii Vacation Connection Podcast which, create daily content about Hawaii Travel and Tourism. This Blog is the only online resource providing Hawaii-based information aimed at travelers seven days per week. Postings reflect the Hawaiian Islands, their culture and their lifestyle as accurately and thoroughly as possible.
Despite popular belief, sometimes it's best to avoid the road less traveled. I know; it may seem like I'm killing your sense of adventure, but when it comes to hikes in Hawai‘i, there's more than enough expeditions available to satisfy even the most avid hiker. So play it safe, and stay on sanctioned trails as opposed to those that aren't maintained and therefore, are unsafe for hiking.
Unsanctioned hikes are risky endeavors.
I unknowingly went on an unsanctioned hike, and it wasn't until we reached the narrow ridge trail sandwiched between steep cliffs that I realized it. The funny thing is, I had every intention of writing a story about the hike. Now, I'm writing a story about not hiking it; visiting hikers (beginner or expert) should avoid those trails not approved by the state. That was the first time in all my years of hiking that I've ever been fearful. The gusty winds and narrow trails, which seemed to have miles of air beneath, did it for me!
Unsanctioned hikes aren't usually maintained nor are they marked well. Needless to say, such hikes result in the most injuries. Recently in the news, a very experienced hiker died after falling 150 feet from an unsanctioned Waimānalo ridge hike. You may see an awesome hike on YouTube and want to try it out, but before you do, double check that it's safe. It just isn't worth it. Take my word for it, there are plenty of sanctioned hikes to get your heart pumping and to give you a view you'll never forget.
If you're uncertain as to whether a hike is sanctioned or not, then it's best to check with us or visit the state parks' website: www.hawaiistateparks.org/hiking.
Since 2006 Bruce Fisher has been publishing the Hawaii Vacation Blog and the Hawaii Vacation Connection Podcast which, create daily content about Hawaii Travel and Tourism. This Blog is the only online resource providing Hawaii-based information aimed at travelers seven days per week. Postings reflect the Hawaiian Islands, their culture and their lifestyle as accurately and thoroughly as possible.
If you're looking for a freshwater pool to swim in, then Waimano Falls has just that. Unfortunately, it's far from Waikīkī. But if you have a rental car or can finagle one from a friend, then consider taking the drive out to Pearl City. Not only because of the beautiful waterfall and pool but because of the hike. Unlike the ever-popular Diamond Head Hike, Waimano has managed to share its beauty with just several visitors at a time, making it one of the most peaceful hikes on the island.
A forest canopy makes this a cooler hike, with ropes to help you on the way back.
Starting at the end of a residential neighborhood, the trail takes you through a covered forest of native plants. But you still have about a mile to go before reaching the waterfall at the bottom of the valley. If you haven't already put two and two together, then yes, you'll be making a downhill trek to get there…by way of Cardiac Hill. It has been nicknamed as such for two reasons; one, because the tree roots that cover the hill resemble arteries, and two, because the climb back up really gets your heart pumping for a real cardio sesh. But really, if you've survived Koko Head, then this uphill will be cake.
It's best to do this hike after a couple days of rain. While it may be a little muddier than usual, you'll be glad to find a gushing waterfall and overflowed pool. I took some friends here in the dead of summer and felt so bad when we finally reached the "pool," only to discover the falls trickling into a dried up puddle. When the falls are actually raging, the pools get so deep that you can't touch bottom, and the water is freezing cold. But it's definitely a welcomed kind of freezing after the adventurous hike downhill.
Save the front flips for the experts! Eek!
Most people jump off of the falls, which is about 20 feet high. Of course, I wouldn't recommend children doing this, and I definitely wouldn't recommend children swinging from the rope swing. Rope swings can be dangerous because you have to know exactly when to let go and where to position yourself so you don't hit any rocks. The ropes provided on the way back out are helpful, however. Hikers use them as leverage when climbing up the steepest parts. Once you reach the top, you'll be so glad you made the trek to Waimano Falls.
Happy Hiking!
WAIMANO FALLS / Directions: From H-1, take Peal City-Waimalu (#10) and head north. Turn right on Moanalua, then right on Waimano Home Road. Left on Komo Mai Drive until you reach a dead end (Map) / 3-miles roundtrip / Difficulty: Medium / Hike with a buddy, water, snacks, cell phone & flashlight / Park in neighborhood but please don't block driveways or mailboxes; only accessible by car, no bus
Since 2006 Bruce Fisher has been publishing the Hawaii Vacation Blog and the Hawaii Vacation Connection Podcast which, create daily content about Hawaii Travel and Tourism. This Blog is the only online resource providing Hawaii-based information aimed at travelers seven days per week. Postings reflect the Hawaiian Islands, their culture and their lifestyle as accurately and thoroughly as possible.
The hike up Kuli‘ou‘ou Ridge will surely kick your butt. It may be only 2.5-miles to the top, but it's an intense climb that will no doubt get your heart racing just a couple minutes into the hike. It's one of my favorite hikes on O‘ahu; one that meanders through several different terrains while rewarding hikers with a nice workout and, of course, a stunning view of the Windward side once you're at the top.
The shaded part of the trail is welcomed by hikers.
The hike to the ridge starts about 0.2 miles in, on the valley trail; just be sure to veer right when you see the ridge sign. The valley trail is nice, too, but I prefer the ridge trail, which begins with several slightly-inclined switchbacks through dry shrubberies. However, it gets much breezier once you reach the ironwood and Norfolk pines.
About two-thirds up, hikers can rest or have lunch at a shaded picnic area. Be sure to fully digest your food, though, since the second half is where the hike really begins! The trail moderately inclines from there, with views of both valleys to each side, and just when you think you're almost to the top, the hike surprises you with a quick climb of 250 steps to the Ko‘olau summit.
We hike this a lot during the summer months when it's clear and not as windy or rainy. No one likes to hike in muddy conditions! I'd imagine hiking this when it's muddy would add an extra hour to the already 2.5-hour-long hike. Sometimes you'll see mountain bikers and hunters, but for the most part, the trail is fairly empty.
The view of Waimānalo. In the far left corner, you'll see the Mokulua Islands.
I just learned that hikers can camp on this trail, which I'm assuming most do near the sheltered picnic area. You'd have to apply for a permit first (camping.ehawaii.gov/camping), but it may be worth it if you're looking for an escape from the city.
KULI‘OU‘OU RIDGE TRAIL / Directions: Kala‘au Pl, Kuliou‘ou HI 96825 (Map) / 5 miles roundtrip / Difficulty: Medium / Hike with a buddy, water, snacks, cell phone & flashlight / Amenities: Sheltered picnic tables / Park in neighborhood but please don't block driveways or mailboxes
Since 2006 Bruce Fisher has been publishing the Hawaii Vacation Blog and the Hawaii Vacation Connection Podcast which, create daily content about Hawaii Travel and Tourism. This Blog is the only online resource providing Hawaii-based information aimed at travelers seven days per week. Postings reflect the Hawaiian Islands, their culture and their lifestyle as accurately and thoroughly as possible.
It is no secret the reason why thousands of visitors come to Hawaiʻi each year. Our beautiful landscapes never fail to take your breath away. Whether it’s a fishy snorkeling adventure, a cool rainforest hike, or a swim in a bountiful waterfall, visitors aren’t lacking in adventures to seek our islands' beauty. This grandiose gorgeousness can have its perils, however. Visitors – and even locals – can be so distracted in the discovery of a new place that they fail to see the dangers that may be lurking ahead. Here is a guide for being safe when playing by streams and waterfalls, areas that may appear safe to the eye but can oftentimes be deadly. Keep reading and learn how to be akamai (smart) in order to have the safest and most memorable experience possible.
The signs are there for a reason. Read them and use caution when exploring the island.
1. Watch Your Step! Slick moss usually grows on rocks near and inside mountain streams and pools and will be extremely slippery. Always test a surface by first feeling it with your foot and then continuing to put your weight on it.
2. Look To the Mountains. Although it may be sunny and beautiful by that gorgeous waterfall, you’re about to swim next to, look up to the mountains before getting in. If it looks dark and stormy, use EXTREME caution. The torrential rainfall happening up mauka may cause a flash flood. Signs to look for: quickening water current and a loud, thundering noise coming from upstream. If you hear the boom, get out and as far away from the water source as possible.
Despite these warning signs, people still jump from waterfalls. Please adhere to the sign so as to not get hurt on your Hawai‘i vacation.
3. Don’t Jump! Although you may see some of our daring local boys (and girls!) jumping from precipitous ledges or bridges, do not attempt to do so yourself! I personally know a few friends who have had severe injuries from cliff jumping. Save your daredevil spirit forskydiving or shark caging, and just sit back and watch the show instead.
4. Be Aware of Landslides. Streams are extremely eroding, altering the landscape by carving breathtaking valleys and gullies. If you’re walking by these areas, be aware of landslides and falling rocks as the landscape is very unstable. When in doubt, turn around!
5. Follow All Posted Signs. Signs are there for a reason – to keep you safe. Heed all warning signs, and if your destination is closed, don’t risk it.
6. Leptospirosis. Leptospirosis is an infectious, bacterial disease that wild animals, such as pigs or mongoose can carry. When they urinate in or near water sources, that area becomes contaminated (yuck). Unfortunately, many fresh water sources in Hawaiʻi area contaminated with leptospirosis (double yuck). Although you can still swim, it is a risk. NEVER go into a stream or pool if you have an open cut and follow all warning signs.
Since 2006 Bruce Fisher has been publishing the Hawaii Vacation Blog and the Hawaii Vacation Connection Podcast which, create daily content about Hawaii Travel and Tourism. This Blog is the only online resource providing Hawaii-based information aimed at travelers seven days per week. Postings reflect the Hawaiian Islands, their culture and their lifestyle as accurately and thoroughly as possible.
Paddling down a winding river in search of a secluded waterfall sounds like an all-to-favorite scenario from network television. But on the north shore of Kaua‘i, this dreamy Hollywood scene becomes reality at the Kalihiwai River. Kayakers enjoy paddling through a hushed tropical forest, which leads to Kalihiwai Falls; however, they can't quite get to it, legally. It sits on private property and is considered trespassing, so the only way to see the falls is with a tour group.
Row, row, row down Kaua‘i's Kalihiwai River.
We spent a few days exploring the Kalihiwai valley, starting with a peaceful kayak to the back of the valley. You start with a sandy launch from Kalihiwai Bay before paddling under a bridge, where the river starts to get narrow. Be prepared to duck under a few fallen branches. My paddle actually got caught on one that was hidden underwater. The surprise splash of freezing river water made me thankful that we didn't tip over.
Children and old folks welcome the quick, two-mile paddle in and out of the valley. The shallow waters signal the end of the expedition and is usually calm enough for swimming. The water's usually pretty murky, so I can imagine that snorkeling the Kalihiwai wouldn't be too exciting.
You can only access Kalihiwai Falls with a guided tour group.
The next day, we went on a guided tour to the long-awaited waterfall. The four-mile hike took us deep into the forest, which sits on the private Princeville Ranch, and required a lot of physical exertion. Anticipation continued to build as we climbed a few natural staircases, crossed several streams and then scaled a 10-foot rock wall. Three hours later, we found ourselves very much alone at this secluded five-tiered waterfall. We continued farther up the river to find a second waterfall swimming hole surrounded by fern-covered walls and a light misty morning. And talk about freezing waters…After cannonballing in, my body tensed up, as I found safety on an anchored inner tube.
Here's the second falls you'll see on your tour through Kalihiwai valley.
Remember that bridge we kayaked under? That's another place to get a glimpse of the falls. Although, I wouldn't recommended it. You have to park on the side of the highway then backtrack to the bridge by foot. Not to mention, avoid the traffic that's whizzing by. And once you get to the bridge, it really is just a "glimpse." The view from the bridge just doesn't do the falls justice. It's so far away that you can't truly experience the essence of the falls, so be adventurous and explore the valley by foot or by kayak!
KALIHIWAI RIVER / North Shore Kaua‘i (Map) / Access river by kayak; access waterfall with a guided tour
Since 2006 Bruce Fisher has been publishing the Hawaii Vacation Blog and the Hawaii Vacation Connection Podcast which, create daily content about Hawaii Travel and Tourism. This Blog is the only online resource providing Hawaii-based information aimed at travelers seven days per week. Postings reflect the Hawaiian Islands, their culture and their lifestyle as accurately and thoroughly as possible.
Published by Bruce Fisher
