Category: Hawaii Travel & Vacation Info

The Pali Overlook provides a scenic — and windy! — view of the windward side of the island of Oahu. It consistently ranks as one of the top attractions for visitors. Even with recent parking fees, it’s a bargain. The word “pali” means “cliff” in Hawaii. So Kauaii’s stunning coastline is called “Na Pali” because […]

Explore the ancient Royal Coconut Coast in Kauai with a stop at Kapaa Town. Kapaa (pronounced ka pah ah) is on the east side of the island of Kauai. In 1777 (Captain Cook’s time) the town was not populated, according to the book Rainbows Over Kapaa by Bill Fernandez. There is no mention of Kapaa, […]

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? […]

Kauai’s most popular places to dine, shop or see, as chosen by island residents. Every year the local paper puts out the People’s Choice Awards. Residents have several months to cast their votes and the paper compiles the 100 best places on Kauai. This is by residents for residents but I thought I’d share some […]

When you think of Hawaii, you probably first imagine its tranquil beaches and glistening sunsets. But once you’re here, you’ll be awestruck by another sight: the towering Hawaii Mountains.  And most of them are begging to be explored, either from their valley or their peaks (or maybe both). Many states have mountains, but none are […]

When is the best time to visit Hawaii? It depends on three things. (1) the best weather in Hawaii The first time I visited Hawaii was for a conference, so I had no control over the timing (and was not paying the bill). When I wanted to return, I wondered about the best time to […]

Hawaii’s exotic plants provide a natural umbrella as they collect the morning mist. On my walk across campus today, I could see light rain falling in the sunlight of a clearing ahead, however I was dry – protected by leaves from trees and very large plants. One of the most interesting “trees” in Hawaii is […]

A quick, heavy downpour splashed outside my windows this morning as I dressed for work. Although I carry an umbrella in my backpack, I doubted I’d use it. Instead, I reached for my hoodie – the lightweight hooded sweatshirt that protects me both from Hawaii’s frequent mists and overly-enthusiastic air conditioning. By the time I […]

“ACK! No Connection AND I gotta Pay for WiFi!!! How am I to check a very important email from work and my clients?” I hear this statement a lot when working as a Security Officer here on Maui in the malls and shopping centers. For a fact a lot of travelers to Maui need to […]

If you talk frequently with Hawaiians and Hawaii residents, you’ll soon hear stories of Night Marchers. These feared spirits are said to appear in dark, ancient areas of the islands. But what are Night Marchers, and will you encounter them on your vacation? Let’s discover the stories of these Hawaiian phantoms.  What are Night Marchers […]

Trolleys are a great way to get around Waikiki. Cheaper than a taxi and less confusing than the bus, they provide a direct link between the hotel district and shopping, historic or entertainment destinations. Several trolley lines serve the hotel district. Some are private charters for tour groups, others take shoppers directly to a single […]

On my days off from work, you can usually find me hanging out in the historic Lahaina Town at these following locations. These are all great places to shop, dine, and even relax after the long hour drive in from Central or South Maui. Drive times vary daily in and out of Lahaina town. During […]