Hawaii Vacation Blog

A large tree welcomes visitors to the University of Hawaii campus, providing cool shade and the smell of – skunk. Yep, that’s its name: the Skunk Tree, or Java Olive. I have smelled actual skunks and the tree isn’t quite as pungent, but it’s h3 and unpleasant enough that I hold my breath when passing. […]

In Waikiki there are a few hotels which are historic but unfortunately only the folks with the big bucks get to stay there. However, these properties have a lot of Aloha Spirit and even if you’re not staying there you can enjoy the ambiance and the beauty of these wonderfully restored historic Hawaii hotels. It’s […]

As with flowers, the variety of birds in Hawaii must be experienced first hand. Seeing a bloom does not convey its aroma, and a picture of this little, tiny bird does not show you how it hides amid blades of grass to ambush me as I cross the lawn. At first, it looks like the […]

The latest in know your foods in Hawaii: saimin! Or, “How to eat soup with chopsticks.” Saimin is Hawaii history in a bowl. I had read of saimin in a guidebook on our Hawaii visit. It said saimin was a traditional food unique to Hawaii, so I was happy to order when it appeared on […]

You’ve likely heard of the road to Hana, and maybe you’re considering traveling along the famous route when you’re in Hawaii. But there’s another way to get to the secluded East Maui locale: you can fly into the Hana Airport. Want to experience Hana without the winding drive? Here’s great info about flying there instead! […]

Banyan trees are common in Hawaii but they grow in a very uncommon way: their roots are in reverse, reaching down to the ground from the branches above. These enormous trees give shelter from both sun and the frequent light misty rain, providing a gathering place for commerce and conversation. A single banyan can shelter […]

Iao Valley State Park is one of the most unique and beautiful places in Maui. It is rich with history and cultural significance. Want to learn more about Iao Valley? Here’s everything you need to know before you visit.  Where is Iao Valley Iao Valley (pronounced ee-ow valley) is nestled in the West Maui Mountains. […]

The Byodo-In Temple is located at the Valley of the Temples Memorial Park in Kaneohe. It was first established on June 7, 1968 to commemorate the first Japanese Immigrants to Hawaii, Byodo-In translates to “Temple of Equality – not to discriminate” and is home to Amida, a golden Buddha unique to the entire world. The […]

Looking for a Hawaii hike that feels “off the beaten path” but still is easy to complete? You should check out Likeke Falls on Oahu! Likeke Falls Trail Quick Facts Difficulty Level: Easy Distance: 0.8 miles round trip, out-and-back Location: East Oahu near Koʻolau Golf Club Cost: Free, but you may need to pay about […]

The day after Christmas is celebrated as Boxing Day in the United Kingdom.  Here in Hawaii, December 26 is also celebrated but it’s because boxes of fireworks go on sale. Lines at stores form before sunrise with locals ready to buy their quota of explosive fun.   Fireworks permits must be purchased for firecrackers; many […]

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 […]

I’m not, by nature, a morbid person. I am, however, an avid history buff. I’m also a rabid baseball fan, and I live across the street from Oahu Cemetery, the home for all eternity of Alexander Cartwright, the father of modern baseball. With the approach of the Fall Classic, the World Series (and my beloved […]