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.
Hawai‘i will get its first Bloomingdale's store in 2015, at the former Sears space in Ala Moana Shopping Center. The announcement by General Growth Properties comes just over a year after they announced Sears closing.
The new Bloomingdale's will be a welcomed addition for shoppers. Owned by Macy's, the department store is known for its designer clothes, handbags, jewelry and home furnishings for men, women and kids. Ironically, a huge multi-level Macy's store already anchors the opposite end of the mall.
I'm hoping Bloomingdale's management will incorporate some island brands into its collection. Much like Target and TJ Maxx did when they arrived in the islands. Maxxinistas said "Aloha" to homegrown items, like candy, coffee and – of course – aloha wear. Bloomingdale's could be just as appealing if they followed suit.
Sears closes next month, while construction on the new Bloomingdale's will start soon after. Because it won't take up the entire space, there will also be boutique stores set up on that end of the mall. I heard that Ala Moana plans to redesign that entire side, so it's exciting to see what they'll have in store for shoppers.
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.
April showers bring May flowers and tons of craft fairs, apparently. Springtime in Hawai‘i happens to be one of the best times of year for crafting and shopping. It's also the best way to support local! Check out these tips to getting the most out of your Hawai‘i craft fair experience, then check out these springtime craft fairs in Honolulu.
Eighth Bolts of Fabric & Fun Fair / April 20, 9am-1pm / Honpa Hongwanji 1727 Pali Hwy. / Yardage, kimonos, sewing notions, beads and more / More info: 808-536-4566 or temari@temaricenter.org.
Spring Bazaar at Epiphany Church / April 20, 8am to 2pm / 10th and Harding avenues, Kaimuki / Baked goods, jams and jellies, food and more / More info: 808-734-5706.
Spring Home, Garden and New Products Show / April 26, 5 to 9pm; April 27, 10am to 9pm; and April 28, 10am to 5pm / Neal Blaisdell Center, Exhibition Hall / Cost: $3 for general admission, $1 for military, free for ages 12 and under / More info: 808-732-6037 or www.pacificexpos.com.
Craft, Gift & Rubber Stamp Expo, plus Crafters Clearance Sale / April 28, 9am to 3pm / Neal Blaisdell Center, Hawaii Suites / More info: 808-220-1002.
Islandwide Spring Crafts and Food Expo for Mother’s Day / May 3, 4 to 8pm; May 4, 10am to 8pm / May 5, 10am to 5pm / Neal Blaisdell Center, Exhibition Hall / More info: 808-623-4050
Waikiki Farmers Market & Specialty Craft Fair / May 18 and June 22, 8am to 1pm / Jefferson Elementary School, 324 Kapahulu Ave.
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.
In the season of spring and summer fashion, Ala Moana Shopping Center was showered in pink from the ground up. Statuesque models twirling melon pink umbrellas strut the island's latest designs down a matching pink carpet runway. The runway, which stretched across the length of the mall, was the longest one in the nation.
All this pink glam had been for the weeklong Shop A Le‘a event, a fashion forward affair that Ala Moana hosts every year. With sleeked back hair and dark sunglasses, the models pushed through crowds of shoppers with very stoic demeanors. I had been one of those shoppers present for the show by accident. Everyone seemed to be caught off guard when loud techno music started blasting from the mall speakers. It was the audible art piece of a DJ spinning nearby.
Instead of a fashion show that takes place on stage, this show got shoppers' attention right away. Actually, there was no way of averting our eyes from the commotion coming down the long pink carpet. I felt like we were a part of the show itself — with how loud the music was. The show turned out to be a really effective method of putting the fashion in our faces.
Apparently, the ladies did three shows that day, totaling to about a mile-and-a-half in heels! I can barely make it down the driveway when I wear heels, but these women rocked it. The fashion shows spanned through a four-day period, featuring fashionable trends ranging from Splash! bikinis to Diane von Ferstenburg.
Even shoppers could get involved in Hawai‘i fashion. All they had to do was take a picture of them on the pink carpet runway and post to Twitter or Instagram with the #Shopalea hashtag. Six lucky gals or guys would get picked, winning a $50 Ala Moana gift card.
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.
Ladies — contrary to what you might see in celeb gossip, coming to Hawai‘i doesn't mean you must have a "bikini bod." Sure, it'd be ideal if we all had trimmed-down figures like Miley Cyrus and Rihanna. They show up in tabloids all the time, strutting their stuff along Hawai‘i's golden shorelines.
But let's face it. The average person – like you and me – doesn't always have time to hit the gym nor do we have personal trainers. Commitment and drive may be hard to come by, too, so don't let those photos discourage you from hitting the beach.
Look around, and you'll notice that there aren't many Miley Cyruses and Rihannas to be found. One of the major pluses of having diversity in the islands, I suppose, beaches included.
Still not convinced? Then why not try out some stylish cover-ups? Pareaus, or sarongs, make for very fashionable beach attire. Simply wrap the thin cotton cloth around your waist or upper body. It wears similar to a mini skirt or summer dress. I've found some really cute tropical prints at the Aloha Stadium swap meet. Otherwise, you can pick one up from an ABC store or at the mall.
Many boutiques in Hawai‘i sell beaded or crochet cover-ups. The dresses are decorative – yet simple – and don't go overboard with sequins and sparkles. Fancy beach wardrobe is not really necessary, like it would be for luxury beach resort areas, like the Bahamas or Cancun.
Bottom line is: Hit the beach even if you didn't have time to hit the gym. There are ways to still get your tan on – without revealing too much.
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.
Kailua now has a fourth farmers market to provide locals and visitors with a multitude of island bounties.
With high grocery store prices, and many times, questionable freshness and origin of produce and meats, it is no wonder the popularity of farmers markets has soared to meet the population’s request for locally-supplied products. And our little corner of the windward side of O‘ahu has been keeping pace with the growing sustainability marketplace principle.
Rep. Chris Lee showing his support for local farmers markets.
Sundays are now included in the weekly schedule of markets. Under the direction of the people who bring you the markets in Hale‘iwa, Hawai‘i Kai and Ala Moana, Kailua's newest market will operate in the parking lot of Kailua Elementary School. The school is sandwiched between the local library and the Salvation Army and provides free parking. The market itself has a large covered space for eating, resting and listening to local entertainment, if scheduled.
So far, 40 venders have signed on as regulars, and local State Legislator Chris Lee told me he believes this is just a start to the biggest and best farmers market on the island. I walked around to see what was available and am glad to say that it certainly is not a rehash of what is offered at the other Kailua markets.
There were a few familiar faces and products, but most were new to Kailua and offered items that were different, or at least a variable of what you might see at other places. I am on familiar terms with one seller who used to only sell at the Hale‘iwa market. Now he sells here.
His product, Raw Dog Hawaii, provides raw dog food, via local ranches, and is growing in popularity. His suppliers are limited, but you can meet the man himself and buy the product right at this market, which is not what you usually see at other markets. Personally, I bought an amazing, freshly-made ginger and sugar cane beverage that I’ll use as a base for drinks at home.
Local canned tuna, raw dog food and coconut water from the source.
All in all, there was a good mix between fruit and vegetable stands, prepared food popup kitchens and home good items, like candles, plants or jewelry etc. I do go to the other three markets in Kailua, and it is very evident that each has its own personality. I go for the good prices, freshness and just for something to do. They sure do draw out the people of this little town, so the new guy on the block should do just fine.
KAILUA FARMERS MARKET / Sundays, 9am-1pm / Kailua Elementary School parking lot 315 Ku‘ulei Rd., Kailua, HI 96734 (Map) / Free parking at school
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.
Local ukulele master Jake Shimabukuro is quite the trend setter. He made the ukulele look cool, twice tried to break a world record and most recently, came up with this genius way to share his music – by way of an ukulele USB.
The nifty little device meant to store digital files is now a portable jukebox. It's filled with his live worldwide performances that users may download to watch again and again, as if they're actually sitting among the crowd of fellow fans. Jake's been all over, too – from California to Europe, so take your pick.
The USB is great for those who missed the concert while he was on tour or for those who just couldn't afford to go in person. Now, they can; through their computer screens, that is.
Shimabukuro fans who did get a chance to watch him, however, say the USB performances are just as great the second time around. It lets uke enthusiasts compare the solo performances to the larger ensemble versions in the studio but mostly, it allows fans to relive these moments in music history at their leisure.
Of course, the little device is appropriately in the shape of a miniature ukulele. It's got a keychain loop for extra portability, too. How creative and how simple! Yet, it still manages to be an effective way to share the sights and sounds of Hawaiian music with the rest of the world.
JAKE SHIMABUKURO UKULELE USB / $30 at www.shop.jakeshimabukuro.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.
With Ala Moana as the largest outdoor shopping center in Hawai‘i, it's easy to forget that other shopping venues exist. Take Windward Mall, for instance. Not many tourists realize they can get the best of both worlds when taking the scenic drive through the Ko‘olau mountains. Shopping and sightseeing are both musts for any vacation.
While it may be a lot smaller than Ala Moana, this fully-enclosed mall on the east side of O‘ahu still manages to cover it all. It's got a food court, 10-screen movie theater and a main stage area for entertainment. But what I like about this mall the most is that it offers a unique mix of nationally-recognized brands, as well as brands based in the islands. There are shops here not found anywhere else in Hawai‘i.
Thanks to a multimillion-dollar makeover several years ago, the mall has since made drastic improvements. The barf-orange tile flooring and walls I remember as a kid are gone. Thank goodnessI They've been replaced with a fresher, more modern theme that includes simple Hawaiian patterns and designs.
Together, the renovations have really upped the mall's reputation. Like others, I used to think the mall sucked. It was dirty. The stores were limited and so were the food options.
Now, the mall's a place for everyone in the family to enjoy and for the whole day, too. You could get lunch and do some shopping before watching a 3 o'clock movie. Then take the kids to the indoor play area downstairs or let them ride the train. Check out the farmers market if it's Wednesday, and if there's still some light left in the day, consider driving 10 minutes to Kailua Beach for a sunset swim or beach walk.
So, you see, there's plenty to do outside of the hustle of Waikīkī and Honolulu. In fact, you'll welcome this mellow change of pace and want to come back for more!
WINDWARD MALL / 46-056 Kamehameha Hwy., Kāne‘ohe, HI 96744 (Map) / Opens Mon-Sat 10am-9pm, Sun 10am-5pm / www.windwardmall.com / Free parking in lot; near bus route
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 ‘Islandistas’ become ‘Maxxinistas’ to save money and stay in style.
Even though you might come here for the holidays, I would imagine packing gifts into your suitcase isn't the way to go, so consider shopping once you get here. For one thing, Hawai’i has the lowest sales tax in the nation (excluding those states that have no tax), and that can make a big difference, especially on high-end products.
Then combine that with T.J. Maxx’s everyday deep discounts – well, what more could you ask for, except maybe a free airline ticket over here? (See below). I attended a holiday gift buying preview presented by the company’s LA stylist, Alison Deyette, who outlined the hot gifts in fashion and décor.
Luggage. (And we want you to buy luggage, too, for your next trip to Hawai’i!). Bright colors or a pattern will help alleviate any airport carousel frustration. Alison’s suggestion of taking a tape measure with you to the store, to help determine exact size, is important. When island hopping here, smaller planes are sticklers for luggage limitations. I thought my case was the correct size, but its wheels made it bigger than their size restriction, so I had to check it in. Every inch counts. She also suggests placing a plane ticket inside a luggage gift…Now that’s a great surprise to receive.
Surf and Stand Up Paddleboards. T.J. Maxx is carrying these here, and the manager stated they sell out as soon as they get them in due to the discounted price. But if that's not for you, then the women's selection of cover-ups and swim wear is expansive, all year long because it's always beachwear season here. I was glad to see a selection of good quality women's aloha wear that you could pick up to wear during your stay and summer back home.
Glamour wear is always in for the holidays. The O‘ahu store has the Runway section, which brings the shopper current offerings from high-end designers. The statement necklace is still in style, as are belts, which Alison says are the bases around which you pick the rest of your outfit. Embellished shoes and shirts are also continuing to be hot this year. And leather! Even here in Hawai‘i, garments with just a touch of it will allow you to stay cool while looking hot.
The holiday entertaining doesn’t have to be a big splurge. Christmas ornaments can act as take-home place cards. Hostess gifts can be for the bathroom, with candles or scent sticks, or for the home office, with a tablet stylus or glitzy case. Sparkly stemware can look like Christmas but also work for any time of the year, even if it’s red or green.
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.
Now that you know how to get the most out of craft fairs in Hawai‘i, it's time to get out and get shopping! Believe it or not, Christmas is a little over two weeks away. That means, two weeks to shop, wrap and deliver gifts of cheer to those that have been nice on your list this year.
Here are some O‘ahu craft fairs to check out while you're on your Hawai‘i vacation. You'll not only find prezzies for others but for yourself as well.
A CHRISTMAS FANTASY CRAFT & ART FAIR / Dec. 6 to 9 (10am to 6pm) / Windward Community College, 45-720 Keaahala Rd. / 808-235-1218
SEASON'S BEST AIEA CRAFT & GIFT FAIR / Dec. 8 (8am to 2pm) / Aiea Elementary School, 99-370 Moanalua Rd. / 808-683-6064
WAIKIKI WINTER FAIR / Dec. 8 (8am to 2pm) / Jefferson Elementary School, 324 Kapahulu Ave. / 808-382-6605
MILILANI HIGH SCHOOL ATHLETIC BOOSTER CLUB CRAFT FAIR / Dec. 8 (9am to 2pm) / Mililani High School, 95-1200 Meheula Pkwy.
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
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