While Hawai‘i may be a top travel destination, it's also among the most expensive places in the U.S. And for the budget-conscious tourist, that can be an intimidating thought. Don't get discouraged, though; there are still lots of affordable (and free) things to do. It just takes a little bit of research and flexibility.
Here's a list to start with; how you can experience O‘ahu with under $10.
1- Hike Diamond Head /$1 admission
The 300,000-year-old crater is among the most iconic sites on the island. You can see it from almost anywhere on O‘ahu's south shore. The trail itself was used by the military, but today, hundreds of hikers from all over the world enjoy climbing to the top every day of the year. Lets be honest, though, pretty much any other hike you come across will be free, so consider those as well.
2- Slurp Up Shave Ice/ $4 to $6
You can bet that this flavored ice treat won't cost more than $10. If it does, then you're probably getting ripped off, or it's one huge cone of shave ice. Sample some on the North Shore or even closer to Waikīkī. Waiola Shave Ice has some of the softest and tastiest shave ice there is.
3- Explore Dole Plantation / $5 adults, $4.25 children
Whether you go here for the pineapple ice cream or the world's largest maze, you definitely won't spend more than $10 at Dole. The plantation is a huge tourist attraction that honors a favorite tropical fruit, the pineapple, and lets visitors enjoy it for cheap.
4- Treasure Hunt at the Swap Meet/ $1 parking fee
For trinkets and treasures of the island, go to Aloha Stadium's swap meet. It happens every weekend and on Wednesdays; just be sure to get there in the morning for the best parking and best stuff. Most of the local snacks and coconut drinks will be less than $10, so make sure to get some before they run out.
5- Dive into the Waikiki Aquarium / $9 general admission; $6 military/students/seniors/Kama‘aina; $2 junior admission (5-12); FREE children under 4
There's always something fun (and usually free) going on at the aquarium. They seem to have public events every other weekend. Located just minutes from Waikīkī, the aquarium is home to unique underwater species. Kids can also get hands on with some ocean critters or get up close to the turtles.
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.
No trip to the North Shore could be complete without a stop at the Macadamia Nut Farm outlet. For the last 10 years visitors have been treated to everything Macadamia at this fun store near Kualoa Ranch on Kameameaha Hughway. Everything you can imagine and more made with Macadamia can be found here and all of the items are grown locally on Ohau.
One of my favorites is the macadamia nut Kona Coffee . The aroma from this brew fills the farm and you can get free samples to try. Other favorites I enjoy are the various Macadamia nut butters and chocolates which are really totally addictive!
If you have some time be sure to check out the fresh Macadamia nuts from the tree located in the back of the store. You can crack them open and sample the taste of fresh mac nuts right fomr the tree. Be careful though, when you break them open the local roosters may ge to the nuts before you do!! That happened to me (see the video).
Hours of operation are:
9:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. seven days a week
49-227A Kamehameha Hwy
Ka'a'awa HI 96744
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.
From Kailua to Kaka‘ako – another Hele On Cyclovia shindig rolls on over to the south side of O‘ahu. In an effort to promote safe street transportation and healthy lifestyles, about 1.5-miles will be transformed into an open-street event for the community.
Walk, bike, jog or segway. The coast is free and clear of all motorized vehicles. In addition, there’ll be lots of activities to get people moving. A 5K run at the Waterfront Park, as well as aerobics and dance classes top the list of physical fun. Because Cyclovia focuses on biking, there’ll be bicycling education courses for kids and adults, a bike ramp, bike show, bike polo and Cycle On Runway.
Cyclovia originally started in Bogata, Colombia in the 1970s. From there, it has spread across the globe, gaining the public’s attention in different ways. Each community has their own take on the idea but all aim to get people out on the roads, where they can once again feel safe riding, walking, jogging, etc.
Hele On Kaka‘ako is among many recent efforts to spruce up the urban Honolulu district. The creative murals add color to Kaka‘ako’s once-drab warehouses and factory facilities. Future initiatives for the area include transforming the community into a bike and pedestrian-friendly area – complete with pop-up gardens, trees and seating areas. Known as a “Complete Street,” the idea would no doubt improve and beautify Kaka‘ako for locals and visitors to enjoy once again.
HELE ON KAKA‘AKO / May 10, 2013 at 10am / Kaka‘ako Waterfront Park, 102 Ohe St., Honolulu, HI 96813 (Map) / www.cycloviahawaii.org
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.
Brightly-colored surfboards line the lawn at Ron Artis’ Hale‘iwa art gallery. They’re not meant for riding but rather, serve as canvases of artistic expression and creativity in this historic surf town. Although the man behind the works has since passed, the memory of Ron Artis continues through this colorful North Shore gallery.
As long as Ron was around, his surfer friends knew that an old or damaged board would never go to waste. They often donated their old boards to the artistic cause, from which Ron transformed into a one-of-a-kind creation. Additionally, he has painted more than 900 murals throughout the community, including dozens along O‘ahu’s North Shore.
Upon entering the Hale‘iwa gallery dubbed “Resurrection City,” you’ll first notice the resurrected boards. They almost look like tombstones across the lawn – which isn’t too far-fetched of an idea. The boards have paid their dues in the ocean, and now it’s their time to rest in peace and paint.
In addition, you can’t miss the equally-festive vehicles parked outside of the shop. An old school bus and dilapidated truck have also turned into Ron’s canvases. I especially liked the bus art because portraits of famous surfers have been painted on the windows, including Kelly Slater and the late Andy Irons. At the top, next to the once-flashing lights, it reads: “ART…IS.”
Playing off of his last name, “Art…Is” has been a running theme for Artis’ business. He left behind a wife and 11 children, who you’ll most likely meet if you visit his gallery today.
They’ve not only continued to run the shop, but they’ve also kept the unique sounds of their family band alive. The Ron Artis Family Band jams together at the music studio nestled inside of the gallery. If you dig their jazz-funk style, like I did, you might pick up a CD or keep an eye out for their performances around town.
RESURRECTION CITY / 66-246 Kamehameha Hwy., Hale‘iwa, HI 96712 (Map) / 808-637-1211 / www.ronartis.com
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.
We’re getting our first solar eclipse for 2013, and Hawai‘i is the only state in the U.S. able to view this cosmic event.
Astronomers predict the eclipse to start in Honolulu tomorrow (Thursday) at 2:23 p.m., with the deepest moment in the eclipse at 3:48 p.m. Half of the sun will be covered by the moon at that very moment. By 5:01 p.m. in Honolulu, the eclipse will be over. Times vary by a few minutes from island-to-island.
While cosmic events are always exciting, be sure to keep in mind safe viewing. Astronomers warn that improper viewing of an eclipse can cause severe and permanent eye damage. Because you won’t feel any pain to the retina of your eye, you won’t notice damages until it’s too late.
Avoid homemade filters, like smoked glass or exposed colored film. The Bishop Museum will be selling $2 solar filters, in addition to having special eclipse events at the museum’s planetarium. The planetarium itself just underwent a $1.5-million renovation that enabled it to step into the 21st-century. Can you say, good timing?!
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’s that time of year when Latin America meets the islands for Cinco de Mayo. Hawai‘i celebrates with a huge street festival in Downtown Chinatown, complete with bright, bold colors, African drums and horchatas. The festival encompasses the Hispanic vibe in more ways than one.
With Hawai‘i’s apparent diversity, it’s no wonder Cinco de Mayo’s such a big deal in the islands. The festivities bring awareness to the more than 120,000 Hispanics that make up O‘ahu’s population alone, according to the event’s website. They come from 22 nations and get to show off their dance moves and cooking skills for this festival.
My mouth’s already watering for the spread of ethnic eats – from tamales to pasteles to chicken mole and green rice. Most people go straight to the lunch-wagon eateries; otherwise, the local Mexican, Puerto Rican and Cuban restaurants in Downtown offer seasonal specialties. Make sure to save room for dessert, though, because the French crepes and cheesecakes are definitely worth the extra calories.
There’s plenty of reason to celebrate every fifth of May. It’s not only Cinco de Mayo but Children’s Day and Boy’s Day as well. All are popular Hawai‘i holidays, so take your pick and enjoy this special day in May with family and friends.
CINCO DE MAYO STREET FESTIVA / Intersection of Hotel Street and Nu‘uanu Avenue in Downtown Honolulu / Live music 6-10pm, music, dance, food / www.cincodemayo.com
Photo Courtesy: Cinco de Mayo Street Festival Facebook
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.
There are things about Hawai‘i that you can’t help but daydream about. Those certain features that set this beautiful island paradise a part from anywhere else in the world. And best of all, they’re completely free.
1- Rainbows - Hawai‘i no doubt lives up to its nickname, the “Rainbow State.” On any given day, there’ll a beautiful spectrum of colors stretched across the Hawaiian skies. In fact, there may be two – if you’re lucky, that is. And whether you make it to the end of the rainbow or not, just know that the pot of gold lies in the simple blessing of seeing one at all.
2- Sunsets/Sunrises - I won’t discriminate when it comes to sunsets and sunrises in Hawai‘i. Both are equally gorgeous in their own way – from the varying hues of golds and pinks to the thin and wispy puffs of clouds that dance along the horizon. There’s nothing more peaceful than those very moments, when you can breathe in the start to yet another blessed day or exhale, letting go of it all, only to do it all over again tomorrow.
3- Mountainscapes - No matter where you turn in the islands, you’re bound to encounter one of the very mountains that make up the land beneath you. They’re breathtaking, too. I love driving to and from the windward side of O‘ahu, where the backdrop is always the same and always just as beautiful as the last time I was there. A lush and verdant Ko‘olau mountain range stands vastly and ever-so powerfully over the humbled town below. It’s a constant reminder for us to enjoy the surrounding beauty in nature and never take that for granted.
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 abrupt BEEP BEEP BEEP’s coming from a pack of cruising mopeds no doubt captures the spirit of a Hawaii vacation. It’s that carefree, wind-in-your-hair sort of attitude that screams a good time.
It’s no surprise, then, that one of the first things on a Hawai‘i visitor’s to-do list is to rent a moped. Whether it’s zoom-zooming through Waikīkī or to the top of Mt. Tantlus, visitors manage to cover quite some distance on just two wheels.
Every so often, I’ll hear the BEEP BEEP BEEP’s and elongated ALOOOOOHA’s whiz past my house, which is on the way to the popular Tantlus lookout. Those welcoming sounds never fail to make me smile because I know someone out there is having a good time in Hawai‘i! Other vastly popular lookouts on O‘ahu include the Pali Lookout and Diamond Head lookout. Otherwise, you’ll see mopeds riding through the North Shore or Kailua.
For some visitors, renting a moped is more than just a leisurely way to spend the day; instead, it’s the choice of transportation for them, as mopeds are much cheaper than renting a car. Not to mention, you’ll spend less on gas. And with Hawai‘i’s welcomingly warm weather, there’s no need to worry about full coverage from the outdoor elements.
As with anything you do while on vacation, remember to follow the basic safety guidelines, such as wearing a helmet or buckling your seat belt when in a car. Riding a moped around the island can be the most thrilling things you’ll do while on vacation; however, it’s also one of the most dangerous. So have fun, but please be safe doing it!
Posted by Alyssa S. Navares Follow me on Twitter @Uamalie87
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.
Maybe you didn't have the time to hit the gym before your vacation. Prepping and packing can be kind of stressful. Not to worry, there are still ways to work on that "bikini bod" – even when you get to Hawai‘i. And it's all thanks to the ever-encouraging weather and endless options for physical exertion.
Hiking, surfing, swimming and even window shopping qualify as calorie-burning activities. Want to learn how to dance the hula? That burns calories, too! But it's likely that particular benefit won't come to mind until much later. That's because you'll be having too much fun! You'll probably notice it right before bed, as your muscles start to ache.
But what the heck is a bikini bod, anyway? I'd say it's any body that you're comfortable with. Doesn't have be a super-skinny or super-cut one. If you feel good about yourself, then that's all that really matters because Hawai‘i beaches don't discriminate!
It's also nice that almost every form of physical activity in Hawai‘i is free and outdoors or in nature. There may even be some free fitness classes offered at your hotel. You'll not only get those endorphins going but you'll get to breathe in fresh island air as well. And forget about gearing up in layers; the warm weather allows you to wear the minimal amount of clothing…like that new bikini you just got.
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.
Waimea Falls is the perfect place to check off "swimming under a waterfall" from your Hawai‘i vacation bucket list. It's easily accessible and almost always flowing with refreshing mountain water.
Located on the North Shore of O‘ahu, the 45-foot waterfall cascades over a rocky cliff and into an icy freshwater pool below. Some swimmers splash around on inner tubes, while others challenge themselves by swimming against the waterfall's powerful currents to take a dip under the waterfall.
Because the falls is located in Waimea Valley Park, visitors must first pay an admission fee in order to access the falls. It's very well worth it because the park not only boasts a waterfall but a variety of attractions and activities, including hula and lei making, as well as musical performances. Among the biggest attraction every year is its spectacular cliff diving exhibitions.
Ancient Hawaiians actually used the falls to show off their skills. Whether it was climbing the slippery rocks alongside the falls or holding their breath under the falls, the competitive spirit seemed to always loom over their heads. Visitors are not allowed to climb the falls.
In fact, there are set rules to follow when visiting the falls. There's a short, paved trail (about a mile one way) to the falls, which visitors are encouraged to follow. A lifeguard on duty at the pool makes sure that everyone's safe while enjoying the falls. Other than that, make sure to bring a swimsuit and towel for a waterfall adventure you won't forget.
WAIMEA VALLEY PARK / 59-864 Kamehameha Hwy., Hale‘iwa, HI 96712 (Map) / Opens daily 9am-5pm; closed Christmas Day, New Years Day and Thanksgiving / For admission prices, www.waimeavalley.net or 808-638-7766
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
