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Posts by Aloha_Admin
Honokaa in Hawaii
“Welcome to Honokaa Town” reads the sign on Hawaii Belt Road as you approach this eclectic and vibrant Hamakua Coast community. Many Big Island visitors make their way to Honokaa as part of a trip to Waipio Valley or when taking a break during a drive from Waimea or the Kona-Kohala Coast to Hilo on…
Read MoreHawaii Donkey Trail Hike: Scenery and Sea Glass
The Big Island’s Onomea Bay Donkey Trail Hike is a time and budget-friendly way to enjoy the incredible beauty of East Hawaii. When I first moved to the Big Island of Hawaii, I lived briefly in a small cottage on a large estate overlooking Onomea Bay. While I was there, the owner of the property…
Read MoreSaddle Road: Hawaii Island’s Best Shortcut
There was a time not too long ago when Saddle Road Hawaii was a forbidden trek: a route banned by car rental companies and shunned by guidebooks. But recent improvements have made this stretch of Big Island Highway a pleasant drive, and a great way to cut down travel time between Hilo and Kona. But…
Read MoreWaimea Elevation: Fun in the Kohala Mountains
If you head north on Hawaii Island (the Big Island), you’ll reach Waimea. This rural area is scenic and charming. And for many, it’s a can’t miss stop when adventuring in Hawaii. But the Waimea elevation brings you away from the ocean, and it’s a bit of a drive to reach. Is it worth it?…
Read MoreMele Kalikimaka – Christmas in Hawaii with Shaka Santa
Christmas in Hawaii is always a great idea! Just ask Shaka Santa (or the many residents who celebrate the Holiday season in the islands)! “Mele Kalikimaka,” I say with a smile to my neighbors, friends, and family. It means “Merry Christmas” and is a common phrase used in Hawaii during the holiday season. I look forward…
Read MoreHawaii’s Rubber Slippers
You may know them as “flip-flops” or as my Australian mates call them “thongs,” but here in Hawaii we wear “rubber slippers.” Living on an island, slippers are an essential part of an un-official Hawaii uniform. Flip-flops were inspired by traditional woven Japanese sandals. Post war, versions were briefly popularized by servicemen returning from Japan.…
Read MorePrimo Beer Back in the 808 State
Back in the 1960’s the local brew to drink in Hawaii was Primo Beer. About ten years ago, the beer was discontinued when parent company Stroh Brewing decided to stop production. So Primo lovers were more than ecstatic to learn that their beloved beer was back and available this week on Oahu. Once the island’s…
Read MoreA Brief History of Merrie Monarch Hawaii
Merrie Monarch Hawaii is basically the Olympics of hula. This week-long prestigious hula competition occurs each year in Hilo, putting the Big Island town on the map and bringing in a crowd of competitors and spectators. If you ever get a chance, you should definitely attend the Merrie Monarch Festival! A Merrie Event for 60…
Read MoreDuke Kahanamoku – Hawaiian Surfing Legend
Driving in the bustle of downtown Honolulu, it is hard to imagine over 100 years ago one of the best watermen on the planet lived on the busy corner of King and Bishop streets. Duke Paoa Kahinu Mokoe Hulikohola Kahanamoku was born in 1890 at his family home. Duke was named after his father, who…
Read MoreHawaii Shave Ice – Fun Local Tradition
On the mainland they are called “snow cones,” in Puerto Rico “piragua” but here in Hawaii we know it as “shave ice.” This is one fun treat that is worth trying. The tasty shave ice was brought to Hawaii in the 1880s by the Japanese immigrants who came to work on the sugar plantations. At…
Read MoreMai Tai Magic?
I started out on a quest for the history behind Hawaii’s magical Mai Tai. This popular rum and fruit juice concoction has two very interesting men claiming ownership of its creative recipe. The well-known cocktail was purportedly invented at Trader Vic’s Polynesian-themed restaurant in Oakland, CA in 1944. Trader Vic’s amicable rival, Donn Beach claimed…
Read MoreExploring Manoa Valley
Exploring Manoa Valley is a must-do when visiting Oahu. Manoa is a residential valley neighborhood. It is approximately 3 miles inland from downtown, close to Waikiki and Ala Moana. While it may not be on the list for tourists, it is a worthwhile spot to check out, offering a look into one of Oahu’s older…
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