Much like the yellow-brick road to Oz, the rolling fields of pineapple lead adventure-seekers to O‘ahu’s fabled North Shore surf community. It’s among the most notable features at the freeway’s end that lets you know you’re almost there!
Rows and rows of the tiny tropical fruit dot the countryside landscape along Kamehameha Highway. Descending into the town below, an expanse of blue paints the road ahead, where ocean meets sky. Every surfer knows that the more white wash down on the shoreline, the better. That means the surf is up!
I believe all of the pineapple crops belong to Dole Plantation; it’s that big yellow building at the start of your descent into the surf town, a popular attraction for tourists. Dole offers train tours of the crops and gardens, as well as tasty pineapple-flavored treats. Of course, there’s the pineapples themselves; to-go boxes make it easy for visitors to take the sweet treat on the road. If you’re in town, you might want to check out Dole Cannery, too. (more…)
Published by Bruce Fisher
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.
May 8th, 2013
Loyal Aoki Shave Ice customers will be happy to know that the North Shore shop won’t be melting into history after all. The business plans to continue where it left off – right across the street from its current location.
Customers can continue to enjoy the flavorful treat at Aoki’s recently-opened country store called “Aoki’s North Shore Trading Co.” They sell clothes, jewelry, souvenirs. Ironically, it is also across the street from a big-time shave ice competitor – Matsumoto’s Shave Ice.
Although set to close, the faded red building of Aoki’s current location has still been bustling with business. A long line of thirsty customers trailed out the door of Aoki Shave Ice this weekend, while others sat in the heat of another humid Sunday, slurping up their icey treat. It was almost hard to tell that this longtime shave ice shop would soon be closing its doors. (more…)
Published by Bruce Fisher
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.
May 7th, 2013
Morning Glass Coffee + Cafe changed my mind about coffee with foam. Instead of tacking on the usual “no whip, no foam” request to my order, I look forward to the fabled foam at this small Mānoa coffee joint.
The light and creamy mixture of foam puts to shame the half-a-cup-of-fluff stuff you get at corporate coffee companies. That’s because Morning Glass baristas steep each cuppa joe individually and use those superior Stumptown beans that give it a quality rich taste.
Ironically, though, the owner of Morning Glass used to work for Starbucks back in the day. As in, before Starbucks became the huge coffee chain it is today. He even helped to open some on the mainland. But it’s back to basics of good and true coffee for this humbled coffee cafe, which no doubt keeps me coming back whenever I’m in need of a caffeine fix.
Morning Glass has gotten so popular that weekend mornings would scare away any newcomer. Several times, we pulled up to the small parking lot, only to turn the other way. Each time, a pack of customers poured out onto the sidewalk – waiting their turn to order or to get a seat inside. The shop is so small that it maybe fits six tables, maybe. Since I’m on the subject of downsides, the customer service seems to be lacking a bit. I’d presume a shot of espresso would fix that in no time. (more…)
Published by Bruce Fisher
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.
May 7th, 2013
“Ready, set, rally” has been the chant for University of Hawai‘i athletics fans fighting to keep the “Rainbows” nickname in the game. The school decided on cleaning up the mishmash of nicknames by using just “Warriors” instead.
The change in this longtime tradition has gotten some fans riled up, prompting a rally to keep the “Rainbows” nickname. With signs in hand, a group of kids, university students and old-timers stood outside of Bachman Hall to educate the public on why the Rainbow is something special.
One of their biggest gripes is that the new athletic director, Ben Jay, has only been in Hawai‘i for a month; therefore, he had no right to jump in and change tradition. According to news reports, Jay’s decision was based on a marketing standpoint. Former football coach June Jones attempted to do the same thing but failed. (more…)
Published by Bruce Fisher
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.
May 6th, 2013
As an area not far from the airport and Aloha Tower, Kaka‘ako is oftentimes one of the first places visitors see when arriving in the islands. The drab industrial warehouses and banal buildings weren’t necessarily the best for first impressions. In fact, many would call this the grungier side of O‘ahu.
But thanks to a beautification effort by the community, the Kaka‘ako district has steadily become a living gallery of urban art. The once blank concrete canvases of grays and beiges are now covered with colors that best fit the island’s persona.
But it’s more than just color; the artwork is impressive. I took a drive through Kaka‘ako recently and couldn’t believe how much the area had transformed. A unique interpretation of the sun setting over the city caught my eye. I pulled over to take a picture. Just across the street, monkeys surfed along the wall and an abstract mural of colorful shapes danced to the rhythm of each passing car. It reminded me of San Francisco – where seeing urban murals is a must for tourists. (more…)
Published by Bruce Fisher
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.
May 6th, 2013
It’s a happy ending after all for Maui, as the magic of Honolua Bay will be saved – forever. Lawmakers set aside millions of dollars to preserve the pristine bay known for big-wave surfing, snorkeling and diving.
Not too long ago, the story had been different. Commercial development threatened the sanctity surrounding the bay, particularly Lipoa Point. As one of the few areas of West Maui that has not been developed, the community saw a need to protect it. The Save Honolua Coalition rallied up a militia of supporters, getting thousands of signatures for a petition and submitting testimonies to lawmakers over the past year or so.
Their efforts proved to be fruitful. Local legislators listened to voiced concerns and in the end, decided on preserving Honolua with $20-million of state funding. The 280-acres of coastal lands frequented by surfers and beach-goers will now be protected for the public’s benefit.
There’s no doubt that Honolua has become a world-famous landmark – known for perfectly-peeling rights, crystal-clear waters and coral beds full of life. But beyond its beauty, Honolua is also a culturally and spiritually significant site for ancient Hawaiians – who believed strongly in the value of mālama ‘āina (to take care of the land). Thus, the decision to preserve Honolua forever will fulfill those desires and allow it to be enjoyed and appreciated for years to come.
HONOLUA BAY / Kapalua, Maui (Map)
Posted by Alyssa S. Navares Follow me on Twitter @Uamalie87
Published by Bruce Fisher
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.
May 5th, 2013
When visiting Hawai‘i, you’ll find some of the most breathtakingly-beautiful beaches in the world. But just because they’re beautiful doesn’t mean they’re safe. Kaua‘i, in particular, has had an alarmingly high number of drownings, which is why it’s best to head to lifeguarded beaches.
Here’s a list of Kaua‘i beaches with lifeguards on duty during the day. You should always check with them before jumping in, to make that sure it’s safe.
NORTH SHORE
Hanalei Bay & Pine Trees (Hanalei Bay)
About two miles of white sand beach best define this North Shore spot. It is located between Hanalei River and Waipa River and great for swimming and surfing. (more…)
Published by Bruce Fisher
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.
May 5th, 2013
Can you hear the Caribbean beats yet?
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. (more…)
Published by Bruce Fisher
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.
May 4th, 2013
There’s more to the Royal Hawaiian Hotel than its rosy-pink facade. The world-class luxury resort in Waikīkī has become an icon of Hawai‘i’s glory days and a destination of choice for the rich and famous.
Guests back-then voyaged for days by sea, bringing more than luggage. They stayed for a considerable period of time, making sure to bring their servants and, of course, their lavish Rolls Royces. You might have seen former President Franklin D. Roosevelt or legendary Hawaiian surfer Duke Kahanamoku roaming the beachfront property. Most notably, child actress Shirley Temple would strum her ukulele down Waikīkī Beach.
Known as the “Pink Palace of the Pacific,” the six-story hotel boasts a Spanish-Moorish style of architecture. Grand arches welcome guests to all its glory and grandeur. As for the choice of pink? That happened to be a popular American obsession from the 1920s era. (more…)
Published by Bruce Fisher
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.
May 4th, 2013
Finally, something has been done to address the traffic nightmare in Waikīkī (or at least part of the nightmare). But more importantly, it will keep the swarms of pedestrians safe when strolling through this congested part of O‘ahu.
The city didn’t put in just any crosswalk at Kalākaua Avenue and Royal Hawaiian Avenue; they established a Barnes crosswalk, which allows pedestrians to cross in all directions (mauka, makai, Ewa and Diamond Head) once traffic comes to a stop.
The other day, I gave the new crosswalk a little test of my own, or “did the Barnes Dance,” as it has been commonly referenced. I’m sure I share the same sentiment as other pedestrians when I admit to actually feeling safe while crossing. (more…)
Published by Bruce Fisher
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.
May 3rd, 2013
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