• Home
• New Jersey Books
• Outdoor Tips
• Travels
• Product Reviews
• Book Reviews
• Holidays
• Contact Us

HAWAII

News Big Island-Hawaii Kauai Maui Moloka'i Oahu Volcanoes National Park

NEWS (For cities and towns, check below after the News)

Turtle Bay Resort Opened Surfer, The Bar

Check out the Sleep with the Sharks event at Maui Ocean Center

Several very special gifts from Hawaii

. 1.  Big Island Sailing Adventure: Leave the crowds behind and join a maximum of five other passengers for a private sailing trip. Sail along the beautiful Kona coast and snorkel in the clear blue waters. Get hands-on sailing experience or just kick back and relax. See dolphins, turtles, whales and many colorful fish.  Food, refreshments, snorkeling equipment, sunscreen and towels provided. From $432. www.hawaiiactivityworld.com/bigisland/sailing

2.  Sunset Special!: Sail into the Kohala Coast on the Big Island at sunset, perhaps the most beautiful sight in the islands. You may see the legendary "green flash" or dolphins and whales as they playfully escort your vessel. Enjoy a libation from the open bar and delicious Hawaiian "pupus" -- appetizers -- as you watch the sun disappear into the sea.  $90. For guests celebrating their anniversary, we invite you to participate in a "Ceremony at Sea" vow renewal.  Only $25 additional.
www.hawaiiactivityworld.com/bigisland/cocktail_cruises

3.  Whale Tales: See whales up close on a fun and exciting rigid hull inflatable boat!  Hear whale sounds with our state-of-the-art hydrophone!  This Big Island whale watch features no more than 12 passengers per raft.  Front row seats for everyone!  $53.
www.hawaiiactivityworld.com/bigisland/whale_watching
 
4.  Na Pali Sportfishing: Come aboard a 33' fully-equipped Bertram Sportfisher and experience the thrill of big game sportfishing on this Kauai fishing charter! You'll search for blue marlin, ahi (yellowfin tuna), mahi mahi (dorado), ono (wahoo) and aku (skipjack tuna). All essential gear is provided. Light refreshments. From $130/person (four-hour excursion). www.hawaiiactivityworld.com/kauai/fishing
 
5.  Kauai 4x4 Drive/Hike Adventure: This is an exciting tour that will be long remembered. Mt. Waialeale, at the center of Kauai, is the wettest place on earth. This half-day adventure combines four-wheel drive access and hiking to give you an unparalleled experience. From convenient departure locations our expert guides will lead you to the heart of Kauai. No children under 5.  Adults $76.80, children (5-12) $48.
www.hawaiiactivityworld.com/kauai/hiking
 
6.  Surf's Up! - Titus, one of the last remaining professional big wave riders of pure Hawaiian descent, will meet his clients on the beach near the beautiful Hanalei pier on Kauai. He will provide an hour and a half lesson in the gentle waters of Hanalei and discuss his culture. Titus is a world renowned big wave rider and has traveled to over 30y countries to teach others how to surf. At age 50, he is still competing in big wave contests worldwide so his clients will be learning from the best. 
Group lesson $60; private lesson $120. www.hawaiiactivityworld.com/kauai/surfing_lessons

Camping Now Possible on the Islands of Hawaii

GB Adventures -- a VW Westfalia camper van rental company, has come to the islands.

Adventurers can cruise and sleep comfortably in these fully stocked vehicles with all the amenities imaginable for the most luxurious camping/RV trip around. Possibilities are endless as campers can be lulled to sleep by the crashing of waves and awake to beautiful beach sunsets.

For more information, visit GB-Adventures.com.

BIG ISLAND - HAWAII

About the Big Island

The Big Island is home of the most active volcano on the planet and, as a destination, as a land of legend, as a truly Hawaiian place, the Island of Hawaii stands apart. This tropical island is one of diversity, both old and young, exciting and tranquil, with volcanoes and snow-capped mountains, ancient stone altars and tasteful modern resorts. As the largest of the Hawaiian chain, it is often referred to as the “Big Island of Hawaii.” It is more than 4000 square miles overall, 93 miles long and 76 miles wide at its extremities, and lies at the southern most point in the US at Kalae, South Point.

For more information, contact web site www.bigisland.org

Hawaii Top U.S. Golf Resort Destination –

If you had any doubts about the quality of golf courses and resorts found throughout Hawaii, a recent survey in Golf Magazine should convince you to book that golf vacation to the 50th state. In the magazines exclusive list of “Gold Medal Resorts,” seven of the top 25 on the list are found here in Hawaii. The next closest state – California – has three on the list. Pretty impressive when you consider the competition which includes golf meccas such as Arizona, Oregon, and Florida. The Hawaii courses named are the Four Seasons Resort Hualalai at Kaupulehu (Hawaii’s Big Island), Four Seasons Resort Lanai at Manele Bay, Four Seasons Resort Lanai, The Lodge at Koele, Grand Wailea Resort (Maui), Kauai Marriott Resort and Beach Club, Mauna Lani Resort (Hawaii’s Big Island), and Princeville Resort (Kauai).

For more information about these resorts and golf in Hawaii, visit GoHawaii.com/Golf.

Kona Village Resort's Adventure Package

Girls Just Want To Have Fun! – From bachelorette getaways to mother-daughter vacations or “just because,” girlfriend getaways are becoming more popular noted a recent AAA report. Hawaii provides the perfect combination of sun, sand, fabulous shopping and extraordinary cuisine, as well as exciting activities that will keep a group of girlfriends active, engaged, and having fun. Each island offers different accommodations and experiences that will satisfy any girl’s needs. From Kona Village Resort’s Adventure package (KonaVillage.com) with activity options such as massage, hula or diving lessons, to the W Honolulu’s Wonder Woman package (StarwoodHotels.com/WHotels) created in conjunction with Bobbi Brown cosmetics, which includes a gift pack of beauty aids and other gifts with rates starting at $335. Activities, nightlife, and relaxation are just some of the reasons that choosing Hawaii is the perfect idea for an all girl-getaway.

Hilo Coffee Mill

The Hilo Coffee Mill on Hawai'i's Big Island offers families a complimentary 'behind the beans' peek into Hawaiian coffee production, from plant to cup and every step in between. Free tastings of 100 percent East Hawai'i coffee grown in the lush, volcanic districts of Ka'u, Hamakua, and Puna are included, and children will love the free samples of 100 percent Ka'u coffee ice cream!

For more information, check web site www.HiloCoffeeMill.com.

Hamakua Coast: New Food Mecca

With favorable weather and farming conditions, Hamakua Coast on Hawaii’s Big Island has become today a more diversified agriculture area than ever before. Many local chefs and restaurants are infusing their menus with products that originate from the Hamakua area. From mushrooms to vanilla, visitors are able to dine on such dishes as Hawaii Island Goat Cheese Souffle or Hamakua Alii Oyster Mushroom Risotto. Some of these farms welcome visitors and provide tours and luncheons as well.

-- Hamakua Heritage Farm (HHFHawaii.com

-- Hawaii Island Goat Diary (HawaiiIslandGoatDairy.com)

-- Hawaiian Vanilla Company (HawaiianVanilla.com)

Hawaii’s Plantation Village New Exhibit

Check out the new exhibit on display titled “Hawaiians on the Plantation” highlighting the aspects of Hawaiian history and every day life through photographs, artifacts, and reconstruction. Admission to the exhibit is free, however, visitors are encouraged to participate in the docent-led tours for a nominal charge to learn about the complete plantation experience.

For more information, visit HawaiiPlantationVillage.org.

Many of Hawaii's world-renowned chefs are following a trend of offering more casual eateries to contrast their high-end restaurants. Stroll around Honolulu and you'll find local chefs creating laid-back menu options for their more budget-conscious diners. Take Alan Wong's (AlanWongs.com) signature fine-dining locale on King Street versus The Pineapple Room located in Macy's at Ala Moana Center, where t-shirts and flip-flops are appropriate. Sam Choy (SamChoy.com) is another example where his Diamond Head Restaurant serves up extravagant fare, while Sam Choy's Breakfast, Lunch & Crab offers more subtle dishes that are easier on the pocket. Dining options are a must and foodies have much to choose from when visiting in the islands. Stay tuned for more on the upcoming opening of Chef Mavro's (ChefMavro.com) new sister restaurant, Cassis Honolulu located right across from Aloha Tower in downtown Honolulu.

Aquaculture: Old and New Award Winning Ponds at Hualalai

The award-winning Lake Punawai is a testament to the synergy of ancient and modern aquaculture practices. Lake Punawai resides on the fifth hole of the exclusive Ke`olu Golf Course at Hualalai as one of its "water features." This serene pond is a thriving 3-million-gallon man-made pond that uses phytoremediation - the treatment of environmental problems using plants, and is a recipient of an award from the Environmental Protection Agency in 2005. The ceremony was held in San Francisco.

A project of Hualalai Resort's Natural Resources Director David Chai, Lake Punawai was built in 2001. David's goal was to create an energy efficient, visually pleasing, self-sustaining, and self-cleaning pond. The pond encompasses about two and a half acres and is about 10 feet deep. With a gravel bottom, two floating islands of plants, and micro-organisms, it is a mini-ecosystem. There is no need to remove bottom sediments since there are virtually none, due to the numerous detritivores and organic eating bacteria established in the early stages of the project - it is in deed a'Living Machine.'

The lake is stocked with several different specie of fish - awa (milkfish), `ama`ama (mullet), moi (threadfin), kahala (amberjack), `opae (shrimp), and `olepe (oysters). Everything can be harvested for consumption except the oysters, which are used as filtration. Algae density, salinity, Redox, pH, conductivity, nitrates, and phosphates were monitored during the first year. The pond is now "balanced" and currently, only on rare occasion, are these parameters measured.

Drainage around Lake Punawai was engineered with a 100-year storm scenario - no runoff water from the golf course will drain into the pond in any storm event less than the one that comes along every century (8 inches of rain in 24 hours).

David and his team of four currently manage and maintain the health and integrity of all natural and man-made ponds at Hualalai Resort including a three-acre historic Waiakauhi fishpond/waterbird habitat, 2.5- acre open-flow salt water wetland/fishpond, and 1.8 million gallon saltwater swim-with-the-fish aquarium/pond. The Waiakauhi Pond restoration project was recently awarded a Lehua Makanoe Award at the 2007 Hawai`i Tourism Authority's Keep It Hawai‘i Awards, where individuals, groups, and corporations who create programs of awareness and sharing to perpetuate the uniqueness of Hawai‘i's culture and heritage, are recognized.

Restoration has been started and continues at the Hunawai Pond - a fresh water pond adjacent to the Resort's Hoku Amphitheatre. Hunawai means hidden water, and this pond was once a source for fresh drinking water for the people that once resided in this area.

The Resort offers complimentary pond tours with a Natural Resource specialist every Thursday morning. Other weekday tours may be arranged in advance and are subject to the availability of a specialist. Additionally, throughout the year, the Resort has given pond tours to schools, seniors, the local Chamber of Commerce, and more.

"Pahu i'a Presents"

Pahu i'a Presents is a culinary showcase of regional offerings at Four Seasons Resort Hualalai, where the chefs share the bounty of the Island of Hawai'i with diners through engaging epicurean experiences that delight the senses and please the palate.

Pahu i'a restaurant

Mother Nature herself graces the ambience of the resort’s signature restaurant, Pahu i'a. As if appearing on cue, rolling waves, tropical breezes, the sun dancing on the horizon, and a canopy of stars create the setting for an unforgettable dining

experience. The chefs pay homage to Hawai'i’s bounty from land and sea with their signature, ocean-inspired Contemporary Pacific Cuisine, artfully prepared and presented.

The nightly dinner menu features fresh seafood harvests from nearby Natural Energy Laboratory of Hawai'i Authority (NELHA), where cold deep seawater is delivered onshore from 2,000 - 3,000 feet below surface level; and warm surface water, from a source rated pure - provides an ideal growth medium for marine life and thriving aquaculture farms. The culinary team works with local farmers who provide fresh island-grown produce, and fragrant herbs are picked from our herb garden. Pahu i'a serves breakfast and dinner
daily. For dinner, smart resort attire and reservations are strongly recommended.

Four Seasons Resort Hualalai is part of the master-planned 865-acre Hualalai Resort located on one-half mile of sandy beach along the North Kona Coast of the Island of Hawai'i. The 243-room hotel comprises 36 low-rise ocean view bungalows and was named "#1 Hotel in Hawai'i" by Travel + Leisure and "#1 Resort in the World" by Zagat. The resort also received the prestigious AAA Five Diamond Award for the tenth consecutive year.

For information, please call a travel professional or Four Seasons Resort Hualalai reservations at 1 (808) 325-8000 or toll free at 1 (888) 340-5662.

Kona Honu Divers

Kona Honu Divers was selected by readers of Scuba Diving magazine as one of the Big Island’s best dive operators in their annual Reader’s Choice issue. Readers cited the friendly personalities and professionalism of the dive staff, and raved about Big Island dive sites like Suck ‘Em Up, Turtle Pinnacle and Manta Ray Heaven, a popular night dive.

Check web site www.konahonudivers.com or call (888) 333-4668 for more information and reservations.

The best advice for a fall visit to the Hawaiian Islands? Park it! Not sit on the beach and watch the waves “park it.” Not a wander the great green gardens kind of “park it.” This kind of “park it” is an invitation to visit the eight, count them - eight - national parks in the State of Hawai‘i.

To offer a bit of historical perspective, Washington D.C. was declared a national historic site in 1790. Yellowstone became a national park in 1872. The African Burial Ground was named a National Monument in New York in 2006. Over the years, the National Park System has honored, set aside and named hundreds of amazing places;battlefields, islands, lake and seashores, rivers, home sites, monuments, trails andpreserves across the country and the Pacific. Hawai‘i’s first national park, Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park, was founded in 1916.

Fall is the perfect time for a Hawai‘i park adventure. The days are cooler and the
trails less crowded than the busy summer family vacation months. Parks can be reached by air, rental car and mule rides. In Hawai‘i, the National Park Service has named someof its most unique, accessible parks, honoring pre-recorded-to-modern history.
Hawai‘i has the only national park with a twenty-plus year continuous molten
lava flow. Hawai‘i’s park sites date to a time long before a voyager named Captain
Cook took word of the islands to his western world. Hawai‘i’s national parks, trails and preserves celebrate the temples, cities and fishponds of ancient peoples. They are adorned with the earliest recorded Pacific history, petroglyphs. They top a 10,000-foot mountain with a crater large enough to hold Manhattan. They honor the human history and inhuman treatment of a people suffering a dreaded disease and celebrate the brave warriors who protected America.

Hawai‘i’s Big Island has four of the state’s national parks and one National
Historic Trail. The parks on this island are drive up and drive in, with easy walking
trails, museums, and spectacular sites to see.

Three major parks are located on the Kona side of the Big Island. Pu‘uhonua O
Hönaunau National Historical Park, a place of refuge, is protected by the “great wall” 1,000 feet long, 10 feet high and 17 feet thick, constructed entirely without mortar. Warriors or commoners who arrived there were protected. Trails here are easy to walk. Cultural specialists share legends. Green sea turtles nibble the limu (seaweed) along the rocky shore. They are protected but often “pose” for photos.

Kaloko-Honoköhau National Historic Park is the site of Hawaiian settlements.
The park’s massive fishponds, built before the arrival of European explorers, are an
amazing example of successful aquaculture. The goal of the park restoration is to
rehabilitate and restore the fishponds so they will again function, providing fish harvest for the community. Centuries of storm damage have caused movement of stones in the original walls. Richard Boston, manager and archaeologist at the site says, “we have reached a milestone in restoration at this park, even using divers to move and replace underwater stones in their original wall locations.” Petroglyphs at this site include a carving of Captain Cook’s ship.

The Pu’ukoholä Heiau National Historic Site is a sacred stone heiau (place of worship) known as the Temple of the Hill of the Whale, built over 200 years ago by Kamehameha the Great. The sacred temple measures 224 feet long by 100 feet wide. It is 16 to 20 feet high on the landward side. Workers lived on the surrounding hills for years as they gathered and fitted the massive stone structure.

The Big Island’s Ala Kahakai National Historic Trail is a 175-mile preservation corridor filled with cultural significance, including hundreds of early Hawaiian settlement sites.

Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park has America’s only active, continuously erupting, volcano. The park features ancient petroglyphs, tree-fern forests, miles of hiking trails and extraordinary museums. According to Dr. Dieter Mueller-Dombois, one of the foremost botanists in the Pacific, “this park is the only ecosystem on the planet where just a few steps from the road visitors can stand atop a live volcano, at the edge of a 200 year-old lava flow, and see a new-growth forest sprouting from soil blown into the crevices.” Equally amazing is that the site is only a 30-minute drive down to the place were fresh lava pours into the ocean. Mueller-Dombois’ book, “Life From the Ashes,” soon will be published by Mutual Publishing, tells a Stephen Spielberg-worthy tale from 1959 of the 36-day eruption of Kïlauea ‘Iki, the 400-foot deep lava lake that devastated the rainforest and of the new growth forest returning in only 50 years.

In the park, Crater Rim Drive runs in every direction, leading to steam vents and
sulfur banks that feel like a sauna for the face. Deep in the vent, wild orchids thrive
surrounded by silver lava mounds. A walk through the 450-foot long Thurston Lava Tube is a truly Jurassic experience. Well-marked trails are everywhere. The Jaggar Museum is a technophile’s delight, filled with seismometers, computers, videos and how-to-be-a-volcanologist displays.

According to the volcanologists at the Hawai‘i Volcanoes Observatory, great
fountains of lava have and may again shoot skyward in the ultimate fireworks show. The Kïlauea Visitors Center offers a visual “master’s degree” in volcanoes. At the Volcano Art Center, island artists show and sell international quality works of art, inspired by Pele, goddess of the volcano. On the way down Chain of Craters Road, to view the moving lava show, the trail leads to thousands of petroglyphs, carved in the ancient lava fields.

Kïlauea appears to be a “civilized” volcano, sending lava through tunnels and
tubes from deep in the heart of the mountain, creating hundreds of acres of new land as it flows into the sea. At the bottom of the Chain of Craters Road, a well-marked trail leads hardy hikers to a view of the ocean-side lava action. Safety signs and warnings must be observed, but on a clear day the photo op beats any other vacation snapshot. Volcano House, originally built in 1846, is the park’s hotel, perched on the edge of Kïlauea Caldera. The flames in the lobby fireplace are said to carry the image of Pele.The “new” hotel was completed in 1941. Lobby windows look directly into the caldera.Photos taken here tend to look like the moon.

Kahua Ranch & Honopua Farm

In a unique new activity, visitors can take a special guided tour of Kahua Ranch and Honopua Farm on Hawai'i's Big Island to learn about the island's rich agricultural resources. The visits are followed by a special four-course dinner at the award-winning Merriman's Restaurant in Waimea. Dinner will be prepared by chefs using fresh produce from the farms.

For more information, check web site www.MerrimansHawaii.com.

Waikoloa Beach Marriott Resort and Spa Renovation Completed

The Waikoloa Beach Marriott Resort and Spa on Hawai‘i’s Big Island has completed an extensive upgrade in excess of $50 million. All 555-guest rooms have been completely redesigned and new amenities added include the new Blue Sky Coffee Bar and 12,000 square-foot Naupaka Ballroom. The new luxurious and multi-level Mandara Spa offers signature treatments and takes advantage of the sweeping ocean views.

For reservations or more information, visit Marriott.com.

KAUAI

Expedia's Insiders' Names Its Select List of Worldwide Favorite Hotels

Kaua‘i’s Outrigger Hotels & Resorts, Waipouli Beach and Resort No. 21 were named by Expedia's Insiders' as Worldwide Favorite Hotels. Waipouli Beach was scored on its value and quality of service and comfort by Expedia’s customer feedback. For more information, visit WaipouliBeachResort.com.

The Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort & Spa and its Dondero’s Restaurant --

have both received the AAA Four Diamond award for 2009. This is the 18th recognition since The Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort & Spa opened in 1990. The enhanced level of quality and physical attributes throughout the hotel and great accommodating
staff were the positive factors in this recognition. Dondero’s Restaurant and its highly accomplished staff, creative and complex menus, presentation and fresh ingredients garnered the Four Diamond award. For more information, visit Kauai.Hyatt.com.

Outrigger Waipouli Beach Resort & Spa Awarded Top Hawaii Resort by Expedia Insider Select

The Outrigger Waipouli Beach Resort & Spa recently earned the distinguished accolade of being ranked as a top 25 resort out of nearly 1,000 worldwide properties included on Expedia's Insiders' Select list of the world's best hotels for 2008. The hotels on the Insiders' Select list represent the top one percent of the more than 70,000 hotels
Expedia.com offers. Located on the scenic eastern shore of Kauai, Outrigger Waipouli Beach Resort & Spa, which ranked 21st worldwide, is the only accommodation in Hawaii that made the top 100 hotels on this year's list.

Outrigger Waipouli Beach Resort & Spa was chosen as Hawaii's top resort by Expedia experts and millions of customers for its extraordinary quality and overall value. The all-new Outrigger-managed condominium resort offers one- and two-bedroom accommodations, accented with warm Indonesian woods and cool Peruvian travertine. Each unit features superbly appointed gourmet kitchens with a Sub-Zero refrigerator, Wolf convection oven, and sleek granite countertops.

The Outrigger Waipouli Beach Resort & Spa is situated on 12.6 acres of waterfront property on the Garden Isle of Kauai between the historic towns of Kapa'a and Wailua, with quaint shops, galleries, and restaurants, and offers convenient amenities, such as a fitness room, activity desk, beachside Tahitian Lanai Bar and a poolside snack bar. The heated soft water river pool that meanders over two acres with waterfalls, flumed water
slides and three sand-bottom whirlpool spas is a favorite for children and adults alike. Landscaped walking paths invite casual strolls along the ocean's edge.

Aveda Lifestyle Salon and Spa at Outrigger Waipouli Beach Resort & Spa

offers guests a full menu of facials, massages and other pampering treatments, using Aveda-only products that are purely plant-sourced. The Outrigger Waipouli Beach Resort's spa is the first Aveda spa on the Garden Isle, and Hawaii's only resort spa with the Aveda Lifestyle designation, meaning Aveda products are used for all treatments.

Reservations at Outrigger Waipouli Beach Resort & Spa are available for rates starting at $295 per night for a one-bedroom condominium suite, and $425 per night for a two-bedroom condominium unit. For reservations or more information, log on to www.outriggercondos.com, or call 1-800-OUTRIGGER.

Expedia's Insiders' Select list is an annual ranking comprised of the top hotels and resorts across the globe, ranging from small boutique to large chain properties available on the Expedia Web site. Additional information can be found at www.expedia.com/daily/promos/hotel/InsidersSelect/.

Next U.S. Species to go Extinct May be Two Hawaiian Birds

A dramatic drop in sightings of the Akekee and the Akikiki, two very rare birds on the Hawaiian Island of Kauai, is raising concern that these species may be on the brink of extinction. Beginning this month the Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources will conduct population surveys of forest birds on Kauai to see if the suspected decline is taking place.

“The strongest available measures such as captive-breeding, fencing out and removing invasive species, and emergency listing under the Endangered Species Act, are all necessary due to the recent history of Hawaiian birds in similar circumstances going extinct,” said George Fenwick, President of American Bird Conservancy (ABC).

Hawaii leads the U.S. in the total number of endangered and threatened species with 329, and in extinctions – with over 1,000 plants and animals having disappeared since humans colonized the islands. When Captain Cook landed on the islands in 1778, there were at least 71 endemic bird species. Since then, 26 of those species have gone extinct, and 32 more are now listed under the Endangered Species Act as threatened or endangered. Several Hawaiian bird species, the Poouli and the Ou are assumed to have recently gone extinct before captive-breeding or other protection measures could be implemented.

David Kuhn, Doug Pratt, and Alvaro Jararillo, who lead birding tours on Kauai, recently alerted scientists, state officials, and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to their concerns about the drop in sightings of the once relatively abundant Akekee.

“I and others paying attention to Kauai’s endangered endemics have supposed that the Akikiki would be the next species to disappear – now it is more like a race to the finish,” said David Kuhn a birdwatching tour guide and observer of bird populations on Kauai. “While the Akikiki de-population and range contraction has been linear and relatively slow, Akekee is suddenly crashing. At this point both species can still be found with assiduous listening and searching—how long this might be is anyone’s guess.”

“Disappointing birding along the Alakai Swamp trails. No sightings, and heard only a couple of possible calls of the Akekee,” said Doug Pratt describing a tour he led in March. “This bird was common when I was last here in fall of 2004, and has apparently crashed drastically in the last three years.”

The Akikiki, a small bi-colored bird that lives in wet montane forests in central Kauai, has less than 1,500 remaining individuals and now occupies less than 10% of its former range. Surveys indicate that the population declined 64% in its core area in the Alakai Swamp from 1970 to 2000 due to habitat loss and alteration, the introduction of invasive species, mosquito-born diseases such as avian malaria and pox, and the impacts of hurricanes. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service announced in 2005 that the Akikiki should be officially designated an endangered species, but declined to move forward with the listing for budgetary reasons.

The Akekee, a small yellow and green bird that lives in the high-elevation rainforests of Kauai, was until recently thought to have a stable population, estimated at 20,000 individuals. Like the Akikiki, the Akekee is threatened by habitat loss, invasive species and disease. 

Of particular concern is evidence that rising average temperatures could allow mosquitoes to survive at higher-elevations, exposing the birds to deadly diseases. Researchers for the U.S. Geological Survey have concluded that even a small increase in temperatures in Hawaii’s forests will eliminate much of the mosquito-free safe zone that once existed for Kauai’s birds.

“American Bird Conservancy’s research has shown how effective concerted endangered species conservation can be. The Pacific nation of New Zealand has taken the decision to invest in protecting its unique species, and has been succeeding while the U.S. has stood by and watched as species after species has disappeared from Hawaii,” said Mike Parr American Bird Conservancy’s Vice President. “It is time to stand up and fully support and expand the excellent conservation programs already underway in Hawaii so these great birds are around for our children and grandchildren to enjoy.”   

ABC is the only 501(c)(3) organization that works solely to conserve native wild birds and their habitats throughout the Americas. ABC acts to safeguard the rarest bird species, restore habitats, and reduce threats, while building capacity in the conservation movement. ABC is the voice for birds, ensuring that they are adequately protected; that sufficient funding is available for bird conservation; and that land is protected and properly managed to maintain viable habitat.

Paddle Surfing Is Exciting - and the latest sport

What do you get when you take two of Hawaii's most popular sports - canoe paddling and surfing - and combine them into one? Paddle surfing, of course! This new form of recreation, which is actually a revival of an older surfing style, is taking off in the islands among locals and visitors alike. So much so that surf schools across the fiftieth state are now offering the activity as part of their regular menu of services. Experienced instructors at Hawaiian Surfing Adventures are offering one hour lessons with an instructor for $45 per person on the north shore. The lessons are also offered on Maui for intermediate and advanced surfers only for $109 per person for a couple of hours by Action Sports Maui.

For more information on doing this on Maui, contact ActionSportsMaui.com. For information while on Kauai, contact HawaiianSurfingAdventures.com.

Sugar Cane Train Ride

This six-mile narrated ride takes you through a scenic journey of west Maui. Gaze out into the beautiful Pacific Ocean and enjoy panoramic views of neighboring islands - Lanai and Molokai - while being entertained Hawaiian-style. This train operates daily.

For more information, check web site www.SugarCaneTrain.com.

Kauai Beach Hotel and Resort

The Kauai Beach Hotel and Resort, previously known as the Radisson Kauai Beach Resort, is slated to become the Hilton Kauai Beach Resort this fall upon completion of the resort’s $14 million renovation project. The resort will undergo extensive property upgrades, as well as the addition of new facilities and services to the property, including a 24-hour business center, executive club floor, Hilton Serenity Collection bedding and bath items, expanded fitness center and the implementation of the Hilton HHonors guest reward program. All 350 rooms will be completely renovated and refurbished, along with the resort’s four-pool complex and meeting and banquet rooms to the Hilton brand standard.

For more information, visit KauaiBeachHotelAndResort.com.

Kaua'i Marriott Resort and Beach Club Completed Renovations

The Kaua'i Marriott Resort and Beach club has completed its multi-million dollar capital improvement project. Indigenous ha'upu ferns, ornamental pineapple plants and exotic tropical hawaiian flora help the redesigned pore cochere and entryway set the toe for a Hawaiian vacation. There is also a new separate area for arriving group tour buses and coaches.

For more information, call 800-220-2925 or check web site www.MarriottHawaii.com.

LANA'I

MAUI

Haleakula National Park

No rumbling can be felt on the island of Maui, but it was a short two centuries
ago that the volcano that formed East Maui erupted. At 10,000 feet, Haleakalä National Park, the House of the Sun, is the entire top of a dormant volcano. That’s dormant, not extinct, meaning it could become active again. The crater at the top, 3,000 feet deep, 21-miles around, could easily hold Manhattan. Thousand-foot high cinder cones rise from the bottom of the crater. Some life forms here are among the rarest on earth,
including the strange silversword plant that grows for 20 years, shoots up a 9-foot high
bloom and dies. Here the nene (Hawaiian goose) runs wild, rescued from near
extinction.

The most spectacular moment in a day on Haleakalä is watching the light of the
rising sun spill into the crater. Standing at the observatory railing, it is easy to imagine the demi-god, Maui, throwing a giant rope around the sun to slow it and make Maui days last longer. Across the summit, visitors can watch as the shadow of a 10,023-foot mountain recedes, bringing dawn to the West Maui mountains. The experience is equally as impressive at dusk as the sun goes down.

There are 36 miles of hiking trails in the crater. One- to three- day hikes are
advised for strong hikers only. The high altitude requires moving slow. The “sliding
sands” trail, much like the surface of the moon, was used for training by U.S.
astronauts. Areas of the park are dry forest zones with 10 inches of rain per year. The other side of the mountain is lush rainforest with 400 or more inches of rain. The park stretches down the mountainside to the ocean.

Westin K'‘anapali Ocean Resort Villas' Latest Phase Opens

Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. continues its tradition of providing lavish oceanfront resorts with the opening of The Westin K'‘anapali Ocean Resort Villas’ North.Located on K'‘anapali’s secluded North Beach, the vacation ownership resort’s newest phase offers 516 luxury units and private villas for visitors seeking larger
accommodations. The resort features a new full-service, luxury spa, The Heavenly Spa by
WestinTM at The Westin K'‘anapali Ocean Resort Villas, featuring 13 treatment rooms including a couples massage suite, hydrotherapy rooms, sauna, steam rooms, and two courtyard massage cabanas in an intimate outdoor setting, as well as a signature Westin Workout® fitness center. Guests can also indulge their appetites at Pulehu, the resort’s fine dining restaurant that offers a blend of delicious steak and seafood cuisine.

The Westin Maui Resort & Spa, Kä‘anapali Refurbishes
With the completion of the multi-million dollar refurbishment program at The Westin Maui Resort & Spa, guests are enjoying the newly redesigned guestrooms with sophisticated comfort including the signature Heavenly Bed and Heavenly Showers. The oceanfront resort occupies a spectacular stretch of the famed Kä‘anapali Beach, a short walk away from Maui’s kaleidoscope of attractions including two golf courses and the neighboring shopping village. Within the resort, guests can indulge in endless array of activities and amenities including restaurants offering world-class island flavors; Westin Destination Club program with activities such as star-gazing with Hawaiian smores, talk story and dive-in movies at the magnificent 87,000 square-foot aquatic playground with five pools; spa pampering at the Heavenly Spa by Westin; as well as the exhilarating Wailele Polynesian Lü‘au and beach fun and snorkeling/sunset day cruises. The resort also offers a weddings department and a Director of Romance.TM

Grand Wailea Renovation Continues

The Grand Wailea Resort Hotel & Spa is pressing forward on its +$50 million renovation. From restaurants and lounges, beach and pool, spa and guestrooms, the Grand Wailea is committed to enhancing the remarkable features that already make it one of the best in its class. The new guestrooms, available for enjoyment by summer 2008, welcome guests to a blend of European and Polynesian décor, including new carpeting, freshly painted buttercup walls, dark wood furnishings and 37” flat-screen televisions. Its famous Spa Grande also just completed a makeover of its grand lobby, salon and shop. With a total project cost of $500,000, its fitness center is one the largest and most technologically- advanced fitness center in the state with all new PRECOR fitness equipment, the leading brand in fitness equipment and the latest in integrated AV systems.

Ho‘olei in Wailea Offers Lavish Vacation Rentals

Nestled in the center of the world-class Wailea Resort community, Ho‘olei at Grand
Wailea offers the newest luxury vacation rentals with lavish private residences providing 3-bedroom, 3.5-bath town homes with exclusive access to the amenities of the Grand Wailea Resort Hotel & Spa. The centerpiece of Ho‘olei at Grand Wailea is a lush tropical playground featuring a large pool with swim-in grotto and 19’ waterfall, children's pool with a sandy beach entry, whirlpool tubs and outdoor kitchen. Guests can enjoy a state-of-the-art fitness center with a private locker room, complete with oversized showers and sauna. Perfect for extended stays, special celebrations and family gatherings, Ho‘olei at Grand Wailea blends the finest in residential living, exceptional amenities and attentive
services.

Wailea Beach Marriott Resort & Spa Renovation Continues

Wailea Beach Marriott Resort & Spa is engaging with a new contemporary design.
Highlights of the completed $60 million beautification will delight guests. Experience the new Maluhia Serenity Pool with six exclusive over-the-water cabanas. Reserved for adults only, the pool is a place of serenity and calmness. The new Mala Wailea restaurant is the latest by celebrity Chef Mark Ellman. Savor exceptional cuisine using organic island products. Ellman is one of the original creators of Hawaii Regional Cuisine.

Outrigger’s Condominium Collection Guests Keep Maui Green, In Style

Outrigger Condominium Collection is presenting guests with a free amenity – a reusable “green” travel tote – providing an earth-friendly alternative to single-use bags. The new tote is provided to guests staying a minimum of two nights at any of Outrigger’s resort condos in Hawai‘i. On Maui, these include the Outrigger Palms at Wailea, Outrigger ‘Åina Nalu, Outrigger Maui Eldorado, Outrigger Royal Kahana and Outrigger Näpili Shores. The spacious bags are made of biodegradable material making it durable, strong and easy on the environment. “We’re excited to offer this environmentally-conscious amenity. Our goal is to help reduce the millions of plastic and paper bags headed for Hawai‘i landfills while creating a more convenient vacation experience for our guests,” said Tim Alex, director of sales and marketing for the Outrigger Condominium Collection. For more information on Outrigger’s Condominium Collection, visit www.outriggercondos.com.

Fairmont Kea Lani, Maui Implements Environmentally Friendly Initiatives

Always an environmental leader on the island of Maui thanks to their “Green Team”, the Fairmont Kea Lani his has successfully implemented environmentally friendly initiatives throughout the hotel. “Recycling Cents,” is a program which helps local charities while keeping recyclables out of the landfill. To date, six charities have collected over $10,000 from the program. The resort’s Aqua Recycler, a laundry water recycling system, filters detergents from the water to be re-used. The system saves hundreds of gallons of water with an average recycle rate between 80-82%. The resort uses a variety of disposable food containers made from cornstarch, recycled paperboard and sugarcane bagasse. Clear plastic cups have been replaced with containers made from 100% corn, and utensils are made from potatoes. Sustainable cuisine is emphasized at all restaurants. They work with
local farmers developing dishes using the freshest locally grown ingredients from land and sea. The hotel uses a Rock Salt treating system in all swimming pools instead of chlorine, effectively reducing the amount of chemicals.

Starwood “Goes Green” for Third Maui Resort

Starwood Vacation Ownership is expanding its portfolio of resorts in Hawai‘i with the development of its third vacation ownership resort on Maui. The new property, expected to open fall 2011, has been designed to achieve certification under the U.S. Green Building Council’s Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) rating system, the nationally accepted benchmark for green buildings. The beachfront property will be located in K?‘anapali North Beach, overlooking the Pacific Ocean with stunning views of the islands of L?na‘i and Moloka‘i. The new property will feature 390 spacious, luxury villas including a mix of one-, two- and three-bedroom units.

ResortQuest Hawai‘i’s Kids Stay, Play & Eat FREE Program

With 11 resort properties located on Maui, ResortQuest Hawaii offers an ideal variety of accommodations suiting families with varying tastes and budgets. Now parents can afford to bring their children on a family vacation to MAUI by taking advantage of our "ResortQuest Kids Stay, Play & Eat FREE" program!

Kids Stay Free: Children 17 years and younger stay FREE with their parents at any
ResortQuest Hawaii hotel or all-suite condominium resort. Kids Play Free: Children 12 and younger receive FREE ADMISSION at top island attractions when accompanied by a paying adult. Kids Eat Free: Children 12 and younger receive FREE MEALS at popular family friendly restaurants when accompanied by a paying adult. For more information, visit www.ResortQuestHawaii.com or call toll free 866-774-2924.

MOLOKA'I

Moloka'I Memorial at Kalaupapa National Historical Park

The Kalaupapa National Historical Park on the island of Moloka‘i contains the
site of the Hansen’s Disease settlement where Father Damien de Veuster dedicated his life, ministering to the sufferers of leprosy. More than 8,000 persons in Hawai‘i were taken away from family and delivered to this remote point of land, separated from the world by thousands of feet of steep cliffs. Damien’s grave and his church, St. Philomena, are the most visited sites. A cure for the disease was found in 1946, but the residents of the colony still live in the tiny community at the base of the world’s tallest sea cliffs.

The settlement was once home to Hawaiian royalty. Deep valleys allowed
abundant game hunting. Fish were plentiful. The park now easily claims the most
unusual mode of arrival and departure travel, a mule ride down the 2,000- to 3,000-foot steep switchback trail. For the non-riders, tour planes can land at the tiny airport. No roads connect this hauntingly beautiful location to the rest of the island of Moloka‘i.

OAHU

The Honolulu Surfing Museum, located next to Jimmy Buffett’s Restaurant and Bar at the OHANA Waikiki Beachcomber is an interactive immersion into “surfing culture”… fascinating, eclectic, and like surfers themselves, not afraid to break the rules. The museum’s collection of unique artifacts, displays and experiences celebrate the Hawaiian heritage and the ever-evolving sport of “HE’e Nalu” (wave sliding)… or simply-stated… SURFING.

The heart of the museum is the incredible collection of Surfing and Surfing Lifestyle artifacts. The museum explores the origins, evolution and current state of surfing, showcasing the top Surfing Legends from past and present, highlighting their contributions to the sport and offering inspiration for generations to come. The collection of surf memorabilia includes vintage surfboards, classic surfing footage, a Hollywood prop or two and a historic collection of musical instruments that are unique to Hawaii.

Upon entering, museum guests are immediately greeted by a large hanging helicopter; a replica from the movie “Apocolypse Now.” Adjacent sits Jimmy Buffett’s favorite museum piece, the original Yater surfboard used in the classic film. Other distinctive artifacts include: props from the movie “Ride The Wild Surf”, artifacts from Captain Cook’s voyages, authentic wood surfboards dating back to the 1930’s and even a few pop culture pieces like the shack board that Kathy Zuckerman (aka Gidget) rode as a young girl in Malibu, CA.

Additionally, video monitors throughout the exhibit run non-stop loops of surfing highlights filmed by several of the sport’s most well known and respected cinematographers intertwined with captioned black and white newsreels of surf riding in Waikiki in the days before ‘talkies’ brought sound to the big screen.

The casual ambiance of the Honolulu Surfing Museum is in sharp contrast to its staid museum cousins, yet it pays due respect to the extraordinary artifacts it showcases. Feel-free to belly-up to the museum’s bar, open a Land Shark Lager and “go off the Richter” over this awesome collection. Scenic murals of exotic islands and awe-inspiring waves blend with tropical materials and classic surf music to form a dramatic backdrop for visitors. Spectacular videos will tell the “surfing story” while unique interactive photo opportunities such as the “Silver Surfer” and “Apocalypse Now” allow the visitor to become part of the exhibit, and ride a piece of surfing history.

The Surfing Museum offers its patrons some unique fun (all of which are complimentary):

Museum Tours on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 4PM (Private group tours are also available). **Audio tours will be offered to patrons in English or Japanese by mid-late summer ‘09.
Mixology classes at the restaurant’s Hot Spot Bar on Mondays and Wednesdays  at 4PM. Guests can learn how to make some of the most popular Polynesian libations like the infamous Mai Tais.

The Honolulu Surfing Museum’s Curator, Mark Fragale is an avid surfer who’s lived in Hawaii since the 1970’s.  Mark has a thorough background as a surf historian coming from not only his personal experiences surfing but also from his employment history with companies such as Bunger Surfboards and Hannon Surfboards. “The Honolulu Surfing Museum offers both locals and tourists alike a unique way to experience the rich surf history of Hawaii” says Mark. “Whether you are interested in educating yourself more about Hawaii’s surf culture, learning how to mix a good cocktail or just killing time before dining at the world famous Jimmy Buffett’s at The Beachcomber, the Honolulu Surfing Museum has something for everyone”.

For more information about the Honolulu Surfing Museum visit www.honolulusurfmuseum.com/ or visit us at 2300 Kalakaua Ave. Honolulu, HI 96815

About Jimmy Buffett's at The Beachcomber
Jimmy Buffett's at The Beachcomber is located on the upper lobby level of the OHANA Waikiki Beachcomber Hotel in Waikiki, Hawaii. Hours of operation are 7am-1:30am. Breakfast is available on the lanai daily from 7-10:30am. Lunch and dinner is served inside the restaurant from 11am- midnight and a poolside menu is offered until 7pm daily. For more information about Jimmy Buffett's at The Beachcomber surf over to www.jbabc.com or visit at 2300 Kalakaua Ave. Honolulu, HI 96815, P) 407.514.8700. *Complimentary valet parking is offered to all guests who visit the restaurant or retail store.

The retail store is located on the street level of the hotel in the heart of the shopping district of Kalakaua Avenue, and offers a wide variety of unique merchandise ranging from Frozen Concoction Makers to Jimmy Buffett CDs, apparel and original souvenirs.

Jimmy Buffett opened his latest dining and entertainment destination at the newly renovated OHANA Waikiki Beachcomber on Oahu. Guests can sip margaritas, mai tais or signature boat drinks on the open-air lanai, the Hot Spot Bar, a dramatic homage to the molten lava formation of the Hawaiian Islands; or sit back in one of the Ocean Wave booths inspired by the towering waves found on Oahu’s North Shore. As guests relax and dine, they will be treated to live music featuring up-and-coming talents or Mr. Buffett himself.

For more information, visit OhanaHotelWaikikiBeachcomber.com.

Hawaii’s first Ernie Els-designed signature 18-hole golf course has opened for play at Hoakalei Country Club in Ewa Beach, Oahu. This private course offers breathtaking views of Oahu’s southwestern coastline and a thoughtful design for both leisure and competitive golfers.

For more information, visit www.hoakaleicountryclub.com

Supernatural Hawaii

Are you afraid of the dark? Hawaii’s culture is well known for supernatural phenomenon and is filled with superstitions and legends from long ago that are still very much “alive” today. Oahu alone is said to be one of the most haunted islands in the world, with many areas known for events and supernatural activity sure to give ‘chicken skin’ (goosebumps). Oahu Ghost Tours offers three hair-raising tours where you can explore obake (ghosts) and the spiritual world while experiencing the local culture and local beliefs. If you’re too chicken to experience the real thing, read up on Hawaii ghost stories in “Obake Files” or “Chicken Skin” book series by the legendary Hawaiian historian and author Glen Grant.

For more information, visit OahuGhostTours.com.

Hawaiian Railway

This train travels on a 6.5 mile track from Ewa to Nanakuli. Three vintage diesel locomotives have been restored to operation and the famous Dillingham Parlor Car is occasionally put back on the track. Tours run on Sundays (Monday through Friday for private charter groups. For more information, check web site HawaiianRailway.com.

Pineapple Express

This two-mile narrated tour takes visitors through the fascinating history of the Dole Plantation and the legacy of pineapple in Hawaii. This train operates daily. For more information, check web site DolePlantation.com.

Oahu Honors

It's a fact, Elvis Presley and Hawaii are connected far beyond his famous movie, "Blue Hawaii." Funds were needed to construct a gracefully arched memorial over the USS Arizona, the final resting place for 1,177 United States military crewmen who lost their lives in the World Ward II attack on December 7, 1941. Elvis volunteered a fund-raising concert. The USS Arizona Memorial, built by private contributions, is owned by the U.S. Navy and administered by the National Park Service. It is free, and open to the public, every day except Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year's days.

Visitors can tour the museum, view a 20-minute documentary on the Pearl Harbor attack and board a Navy shuttle out to the Memorial. Inside, a solemn roster of names carved in marble stretches skyward. Everyday for the past 55 years, tiny oil droplets have risen to the surface, reinforcing the reality of this monument to our country's brave warriors.

For information on park visits, camping, days and hours of operations, and park regulations, visit the National Park Service website at NPS.gov/Hawaii.

For information about planning your next vacation to Hawaii - The Islands of Aloha - visit HVCB's website at GoHawaii.com or call toll-free 1-800-GOHAWAII.

A King’s Passion for History and Culture Comes Alive at Outrigger Waikiki on the Beach

David La`amea Kalakaua, the last reigning king of Hawaii, so loved Hawaiian music, dance and festivities that he became affectionately known as the “Merrie Monarch.” A world-traveler and diplomat, and an accomplished composer and author, Kalakaua helped revive Hawaiian music and hula, which had been suppressed for many years by missionary influences in the islands.

In honor of Kalakaua’s passion for Hawaii’s arts and culture, Outrigger Waikiki on the Beach offers year-round cultural programming as part of its “Kalakaua Experience.” Launched in 2000, this award-winning program is designed to preserve and share Hawaii’s rich artistic, cultural, and environmental treasures – both ancient and contemporary – with guests.

Cultural activities at the hotel cover a broad spectrum with most free to hotel guests, or discounted if there is a fee, making it an attractive value for visitors seeking cultural experiences while on holiday.

The newest offering is the weekly free Hawaiian Vow Renewal ceremony, held exclusive for hotel guests every Thursday morning at 8 am on the beachfront lower patio, with Diamond Head and the Pacific Ocean as a backdrop. The non-denominational Hawaiian ceremony is conducted by a practicing kahu (Hawaiian officiant) who welcomes couples with a traditional Hawaiian chant. They are then honored with a graceful hula and serenaded with Hawaiian song; this is followed with a sprinkling of sea water before couples recite vows in the Hawaiian language. The ceremony concludes with the beautiful Hawaiian Wedding Song performed with a hula, and couples are presented with a certificate commemorating the celebration.

Other free activities guests can enjoy when staying at Outrigger Waikiki on the Beach include casual classes in Hawaiian kukui nut bracelet making and storytelling; flower lei making; traditional Ti leaf lei making; ukulele lessons; hula lessons; the making of luggage tags with a guest’s Hawaiian name; mini koa surfboard shaping; and Hawaiian petroglyph greeting cards. Additionally, fun events throughout the year highlight Hawaii’s rich multi-ethnic make-up, such as a Chinese New Year celebration in February, Duke Kahanamoku surfing activities during the summer, and spooky Hawaiian storytelling around Halloween.

Outrigger employees play a key role in the hotels’ cultural education efforts with most classes led by employees born and raised in the islands. As a result, guests who participate in the Kalakaua Experience programs are exposed to a depth of local knowledge and expertise not always found elsewhere. The hotel’s commitment to Hawaii’s sense of place goes beyond programming, however. Other opportunities for guests to experience Hawaiian culture and history include a special lobby showcase featuring dozens of rare Hawaiian artifacts on loan from the venerable Mission House Museum as well as various private collectors.

The hotel’s new Voyager Room in the hotel lobby is a place to relax after the rigors of travel or to enjoy a quiet place to read. It features an honor library filled with books about Hawaii’s unique island heritage. There are travel guides, the Hawaiian Dictionary, and a vast array of books on Hawaiian culture and history.
Custom-designed Hawaiian furniture from master artisan James Ferla, artwork by the iconic Hawaiian artist and historian – the late Herb Kawainui Kane, two Kahili – feather stanchions crafted by hotel employees, and a century-old fully restored outrigger canoe rigged in traditional Hawaiian pre-contact style all are hallmarks of the hotel’s commitment to its island roots.

“Outrigger Hotels & Resorts was born in Hawaii, and therefore, supporting what makes our islands so special has always been an integral part of this company’s heart and soul,” said Robert McConnell, general manager of Outrigger Waikiki on the Beach. “Our cultural education programs are a win-win all around. They support worthwhile community organizations, give our guests opportunities for authentic island experiences, and provide an important connection between our employees and our community.”

For reservations or information, call toll free 800-OUTRIGGER (1-800-688-7444) within the United States, Guam and Canada. Outrigger’s toll-free number is available internationally via AT&T’s Direct 800 Service. Elsewhere call direct to 303-369-7777 (long distance charges apply). Or, visit www.outrigger.com or e-mail reservations@outrigger.com.

For up to date resort information, follow http://twitter.com/outriggerWaikik on Twitter or become a fan on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/OutriggerWaikikiontheBeach

About the Outrigger Waikiki on the Beach

The Outrigger Waikiki on the Beach is a deluxe and gracious Hawaiian hotel located directly on the sands of world-famous Waikiki Beach in the heart of exciting Waikiki. The 524-room property features three restaurants, including the famed Duke's Waikiki, Chuck's Steakhouse and Hula Grill Waikiki; the popular Society of Seven cabaret show, the Waikiki Plantation Spa, shops, meeting rooms, and exceptional displays of Hawaiian artifacts and artwork throughout the property. For information, visit www.outriggerwaikiki.com.

About Outrigger Enterprises Group

Outrigger Enterprises Group is one of the largest and fastest growing privately-held leisure lodging and hospitality companies in the Asia Pacific and Oceania regions and continues to expand its presence throughout the area. A family-owned company with more than 60 years of hospitality experience, Outrigger runs a highly-successful, multi-branded line of hotels, condominiums and vacation resort properties, including Outrigger® Hotels & Resorts, OHANA® Hotels & Resorts, Outrigger Condominium Collection®, Embassy Suites®, Best Western® and Wyndham Vacation Ownership®. Currently, Outrigger operates and/or has under development 42 properties with close to 11,000 rooms located in Hawaii, Australia, Guam, Fiji, Bali, Phuket, Thailand, Vietnam, and China. Outrigger Enterprises Group also operates and develops hotel properties and hospitality-related retail and real estate opportunities for partners in Hawaii, the Pacific, the mainland USA and Asia. For on-line information, log on at www.outriggerenterprisesgroup.com and www.outrigger.com.

Outrigger Enterprises Group's Waikiki Beach Walk Now Open

After a decade in planning and 18 months under construction, Outrigger Enterprises Group’s Waikiki Beach Walk™ – the largest private development project ever to be undertaken in Waikïkï – has officially opened. Nearly eight acres along well-traversed Lewers Street have been completely rebuilt and transformed into Waikïkï’s newest shopping, dining, and entertainment destination. Energetic and inviting, eclectic and exciting, Waikiki Beach Walk is an impressive new leisure destination to play and stay.'

For more information, visit WaikikiBeachWalk.com.

Waikiki Beach Walk Happenings

Outrigger Enterprises Group is bringing authentic Hawaiian music and history to the Waikiki Beach Walk™ through a new Hawaiian heritage program, “Na Mele No Na Pua,” which is figuratively defined as “Music for the Generations.” The program features two permanent exhibits highlighting Hawai‘i’s rich musical history, an ongoing monthly Hawaiian music concert series, educational and cultural events, and interpretive displays. All activities are free and open to the public.

For more information, visit WaikikiBeachWalk.com.

MAC 24-7 Now at the Hilton Prince Kuhio Hotel

MAC 24-7 has opened in the Hilton Prince Kuhio Hotel in Waikïkï. The restaurant’s name is a coded clue to what it’s all about. MAC stands for Modern American Cooking, and 24-7 is in reference to its operating hours and full menu availability. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are served all day long.

For more information, visit MAC247Waikiki.com.

Waikiki Nei Offers Cirque de Soleil Style Show

In the midst of the renovations at Royal Hawaiian Shopping Center, Waikiki Nei will arise as a new world class production in the heart of Waikiki. The synergy between production icon Roy Tokujo and the team from Realisations of Montreal will create a show unlike any other found in Las Vegas and New York. Similar to aui's Ulalena, Waikki Nei will tell the story of the islands from the time of royalty to contemporary Waikiki with theatrical acrobat and mesmerizing musicians and dancers. The showroom will transform into an ultra lounge at night, retracting seats to make way for state-of-the-art video, lighting and sound along with an acrobatic catwalk to dazzle club-goers, thus energizing the nightlife along the main Kalakaua strip in Waikiki.

For more information, check web site RoyalHalwaiianShoppingCenter.com

Royal Hawaiian Shopping Center

Royal Hawaiian Shopping Center, located in the heart of Waikiki, has more than 150 merchants and restaurants offering shopping, dining, crafts, entertainment, daily free activities and more.

This Week Magazines are available free to visitors on Oahu, Kauai, The Big Island of Hawaii, and Maui (including Molokai and Lanai), describing the latest in shopping, dining, entertainment, activities, attractions, tours, luau and shows.

Outrigger Enterprises Group, is the largest locally-owned lodging company in Hawaii and one of the fastest growing lodging companies in the Pacific . With 60 years of hospitality experience behind it, the company runs a highly-successful, multi-branded line of hotels, condominiums and vacation resort properties across the Pacific, including Outrigger Hotels & Resorts, OHANA Hotels & resorts, Outrigger Condominium Collection, Outrigger Resort Club by Fairfield and Embassy Suites - Waikiki Beach Walk.

Hawaii's Plantation Village' "Hawaii's Historical Tours"

Hawaii’s Plantation Village has unveiled “Hawaii’s Historical Tours” and the new exhibit “Hawaiians on the Plantation.” The sightseeing tour targets visitors interested in learning and experiencing the unique cultural aspects of Hawai‘i’s history and is offered every Wednesday with pickups at various locations in Waikïkï. Highlights of the tour include historic Honolulu landmarks, Hawaii’s Plantation Village and historic Waipahu town, the Hawaiian Railway Society, and finishes at the Paradise Cove Lü‘au. The “Hawaiians on the Plantation” exhibit highlights the aspects of Hawaiian history and everyday life through photos, artifacts, and reconstruction where visitors are encouraged to participate in docent-led tours to learn about the complete plantation experience.

For more information, visit HawaiiPlantationVillage.org.

Home | New Jersey Books | Outdoor Tips | Travels | Product Reviews | Holidays | Contact Us

All information and photography © 2007-2011 Arline Zatz. All rights reserved. Contact us if reprint permission is needed.

---