What to See & Do

Imiloa Astronomy Center of Hawaii --

Imiloa meaning "exploring new knowledge," now offers free headsets for self-guided tours of the exhibit halls. The headsets come in English and Japanese and enable visitors to listen to the stories of stars, Hawaiian culture and the astronomy of Maunakea. For more information, visit www.imiloahawaii.org .

Blue Hawaiian Helicoptors and Hawaii Forest & Trail--

have added the Waterfall HeliHike, a new eco-tourism adventure. The adventure starts off by transporting guests by helicopter to the windward coast of Kohala for breathtaking views of the various waterfalls and sea cliffs. A private landing site has eco-naturalist tour guests on a six-wheel drive all terrain vehicle to a two-mile hike with views of waterfalls, plunge pools, and ancient terraces. The tour also provides lunch and swimming in a mountain stream. For more information, visit www.bluehawaiian.com

Fairmont Orchid --

Hawaii is now offering Stand up surfing (SUP) in a new day package called "Surf, Sand & Spa." This new twist on surfing teaches participants to stand on a surfboard with a paddle and provides a total body workout. The package includes a lesson, oceanfront spa treatment, and lunch. For more information, visit www.fairmont.com/Orchid .

Volcano Bike Tours--

on Hawaii's Big Island introduces a new-guided bicycle tour called "Kilauea Volcano Active Lava Flow Bike Adventure." The bike tour provides views of the earthy tropical forests and breathtaking ocean views. Bicyclists have lunch or dinner at the Hawaiian Village of Kalapana, and then head off to see the well-known fiery glow of Pele. Tours are offered on Thursdays. For more information, visit VolcanoBikeTours.com

Queens' Marketplace

Queens’ MarketPlace is located at the gateway of Waikoloa Beach Resort on Hawai‘i Island’s Kohala Coast. The 135,000 square-foot MarketPlace is a Hawaiian Lifestyle shopping, dining, and entertainment destination for families who are visiting or live on Hawai‘i Island, and when completed will offer over 65 shops and eateries. In addition to shops and restaurants, there will also be a gourmet food market, an educational Hawaiian arts Studio, as well as the Queens’ Gardens, which will showcase live music, film festivals and other cultural and resort events throughout the year. Named to honor Hawai‘i’s numerous queens and princesses, Queens’ MarketPlace opened in October 2007.

For more information, please visit www.waikoloabeachresort.com.

HILO

HAMAKUA COAST

Where to Stay

Prince Resorts Hawaii announced the completion of a multi-million dollar refresh of the iconic Mauna Kea Beach Hotel and its sister property, the Hapuna Beach Prince Hotel

Eighty-five beachfront guestrooms and suites at Mauna Kea Beach Hotel have been updated with a contemporary Hawaiian motif to feature high-end furnishings, deluxe bedding, and deep soaking tubs with windows that welcome in the ocean views. At Hapuna Beach Prince Hotel, guests will enjoy a new room design inspired by Hawaii’s landscape and culture. Rooms received plush bedding, new in-room and lanai (balcony) furniture, and technological upgrades. Hapuna’s pool has also been updated with a beautiful stone deck treatment and new lounge furniture. www.princeresortshawaii.com

The Hilton Waikoloa Village --

on Hawai'i's Big Island has completed its $61 million renovation which includes refurbishment to most of its 1,240 rooms, Kohala Tennis Gardens, the 25,000 square-foot Kohala Sport Club and Spa, three signature restaurants, and the Heralded for its dedication to preserving and enhancing Hawaiian culture and history, Mauna Lani offers the comforts of world-class hospitality in a relaxed, oceanside setting. Mauna Lani was rated #3 on the Big Island in Travel + Leisure's "World's Best Awards" while the resort's Mauna Lani Spa was named one of the World's Best Spas in Hawaii.In addition to award-winning cuisine, a myriad of complimentary services and activities make Mauna Lani Resort the perfect island destination.

KONA

Where to Eat

VOLCANOES NATIONAL PARK

WAIMEA

About Kauai

Kauai JustLive! Offers Exhilarating Zipline Experience

The newest zipline adventure that has opened on the Garden Island takes thrill-seekers higher and faster through the treetops of Kauai's rainforest. JustLive! (JustLive.org) offers those who dare an opportunity to zip across six different lines, raverse a 70-foot high swinging suspension bridge, a 60-foot high dual rope crossing, and seven aerial deck transfers from Norfolk Pines towering upwards of 200 feet. As you make your way through the course, guides provide informative narration on the ecology and history of the area. The three-hour adventure will get your adrenaline running and provides an experience of a lifetime. If this isn't enough of a 'rush,' the company also offers a "Full Moon Zipline Tour" So, grab your headlamp, strap in and zip by the light of the moon. As JustLive! describes it -- "a howling experience!"

Where to Stay

About Maui

Maui Named Conde Nast Traveler's Best Island in the U.S.

As the saying goes, “Maui No Ka Oi.” For consecutive years, Maui earned the top spot among the very best islands in the United States in Condé Nast Traveler’s 2016 Readers’ Choice Awards. Among the eight Hawaiian Islands, Maui received recognition on the coveted list as the Best Island in the U.S., while many of Maui’s hotels and resorts secured top positions in Best Resorts in Hawai‘i category.

Readers of the magazine ranked Maui number one on a list of Best Islands in the U.S., with a score of 88.43, ahead of Oahu – 86.91, Kauai – 85.58 and Hawaii Island – 84.02. This year, more than 300,000 dedicated readers cast votes among a selection of 7,394 hotels, 606 cities, 500 cruise ships and 236 islands in the Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards – nearly twice as many as last year, which resulted in 1,402 best travel experiences in the world.

In addition to ranking number one on the list of Best Islands in the U.S., Kaanapali Beach Hotel came in No. 5 on the list of “Top 5 Hawaii Hotels” and many of Maui’s other hotels and resorts also placed among the 30 Best Resorts in Hawaii category. Securing the first five positions on the list were Andaz Maui at Wailea Resort, Montage Kapalua Bay, Wailea Beach Villas, Hotel Wailea Maui, and Travaasa Hana.

The Readers’ Choice Awards are announced in the November 2016 issue of Condé Nast Traveler,. To view a complete list, visit www.CNTraveler.com/rca.

The islands of Maui Nui (Maui County) offer three very distinct Hawaiian experiences. World-class resorts, award-winning cuisine, championship golf, exquisite natural beauty and the islands’ host Hawaiian culture have propelled Maui Nui into the limelight. For more information, go to www.gohawaii.com/maui or call 800-525-6284.

Where to Stay

The Spa at Travaasa Hana on Maui Unveils New Signature Treatment Featuring Hana-Grown Cacao

Travaasa Experiential Resorts is pleased to announce a luxurious new spa treatment at The Spa at Travaasa Hana. Designed exclusively for The Spa at Travaasa Hana, the 90-minute Hana Organic Cocomint Signature Body Treatment and Massage combines Hana-grown cacao with coconut and mint for a sweetly intoxicating and deeply relaxing experience.

“This new treatment is inspired by the natural beauty and serenity of Hana,” said Maggie Wagner, Travaasa’s senior director of spa and retail. “We’re thrilled to offer spa guests an experience that is unique to Hana and incorporates ingredients from a local farm. Hana has long been known for its healing powers, and we’re honored to keep this tradition moving forward.”

Guests begin the experience with a gentle, exfoliating body scrub using whey and locally grown Hana cacao, helping to resurface and moisturize the skin. Next, a hydrating cocoa butter body wrap softens skin and relaxes the body and mind. After a soothing shower, the journey culminates with a coconut mint oil massage, accompanied by a warm coconut and shea butter compress.

Overlooking Hana Bay and historic Kauiki Hill on the tranquil eastern coastline of Maui, The Spa at Travaasa Hana is a one-of-a-kind indoor and outdoor wellness center comprising of a lava rock whirlpool, relaxation room, private garden area, steam room, and cold plunge pool.

Nine treatment rooms feature Hawaiian-style décor and florals, and utilize locally made and organic products. Services infuse therapeutic Native Hawaiian treatments with exercise as part of a holistic approach to relaxation and wellness. Massages, body treatments, facials, and energy balancing using the organic skin care line Amala, along with fitness offerings focusing on balance, posture, core strength, and flexibility, are offered.

The Spa at Travaasa Hana was named the #1 resort spa in Hawaii in Condé Nast Traveler’s Readers’ Choice Awards.

For more information, call The Spa at 808-270-5290 or visit www.travaasa.com/hana. Find Travaasa Hana on Twitter: @Travaasa_Hana and on Facebook: facebook.com/Travaasa.Hana.

About Travaasa® Experiential Resorts --

is a collection of experiential resorts and spas, uniting a variety of customizable experiences with spectacular natural locations. Extensive, diverse programming is developed around the brand’s five pillars: adventure, culinary, culture, fitness
and wellness. Travaasa strives to educate and inspire by incorporating local and regional
elements from each destination to create an authentic experience. The Travaasa portfolio
currently includes two properties: Travaasa Austin, a top ranked Austin, Texas hotel which opened in May 2011 in Texas Hill Country and Travaasa Hana, Maui, a Maui resort that opened in June 2011, with plans for additional properties to be added in the future.

Montage Hotels & Resorts is expanding its luxury hotel collection with the addition of Montage Kapalua Bay.

Scheduled to debut in early 2014, the resort, set atop the world-class picturesque Kapalua Bay on Maui, will feature a 50-room all-suite Montage hotel and 56 Montage branded residences for sale. Montage is investing in a multi-million dollar improvement project of the presently operated Residences at Kapalua Bay to prepare for the grand opening.
KapaluaBay.MontageHotels.com

Outrigger Royal Kahana: A Home Away from Home for the Casual Maui Condo Traveler

Located on the stunning west Maui coast in the laid-back neighborhood of Kahana is a condo well suited for value-seeking travelers who want an exceptional beachfront setting with all the comforts of home. Outrigger Royal Kahana is a 12-story Maui condo that rivals beachfront west Maui hotels for sweeping ocean views. That’s just one of the many reasons why nearly half of all Outrigger Royal Kahana guests return to enjoy the many benefits this AAA 3-Diamond Maui vacation rental offers. Rates start at just $155 for a garden view studio.

Every Outrigger Royal Kahana studio, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom condo features a full kitchen. On-the-go families love how easy it is to prepare meals to eat in or take on the road when heading out to Maui’s many beautiful beaches and famous drives, from Hana to Haleakala. And there’s ample free guest parking. Keeping up with laundry on vacation is a snap with a washer and dryer in every unit. Best of all, every condo offers an outdoor balcony to take beautiful photos of the stunning west Maui coast and the islands of Molokai and Lanai.

Guests that choose to relax on-site can swim, stand-up paddle surf, or simply sunbathe on the beach. Guests typically lounge on the pool deck with a good read, spend time at the fitness center, or fire up the gas grills for a barbeque gathering at the poolside pavilion. There are lots of dining options within a short walk, including the Maui Brewing Company Brew Pub for “local Brew” enthusiasts; Dollies Pub and Cafe, a local sports bar and grill; RB Black Angus Steakhouse; and even a McDonald’s for fast food fans. On more active days, guests can venture out to Lahaina Town for historic sightseeing and late-night fun, Kaanapali for shopping at Whalers Village, and Kapalua Resort for challenging golf, zip-lining, and miles of trail walking. The on-site activity desk is a helpful resource for recommendations and booking tours and day-trips.

Rates at Outrigger Royal Kahana are per room, per night, plus tax. A two-night minimum stay is required. There is no resort fee and no check-out cleaning fee. Rates and specials cannot be combined with other offers and are subject to availability and change. Rates may not be used for group bookings without prior authorization from Outrigger and other restrictions may apply. Deposit and cancellation policies also apply.

For reservations at this Maui condo, travel agent specials, or more information call 800-OUTRIGGER (688-444) or visit www.outriggerroyalkahana.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 65 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, Embassy Suites®, Best Western®, and Wyndham Vacation Ownership®. Currently, Outrigger operates and/or has under development 45 properties with close to 11,000 rooms located in Hawaii; Australia; Guam; Fiji; Bali; Thailand; Vietnam; and Hainan Island, China. Outrigger Enterprises Group also operates and develops hotel properties and hospitality-related retail and real estate opportunities for partners in Hawaii, the Pacific, and Asia. For on-line information, log on at www.outriggerenterprisesgroup.com and www.outrigger.com.

Honua Kai Resort & Spa has Specialty Suites Fit for Royalty

The extravagant 3-bedroom luxury specialty suites at the new Honua Kai Resort & Spa are fit for royalty. So much so, that they are named for Hawaiian royalty: The Kamehameha Suite (Kamehameha the Great, Hawaii’s greatest warrior-king, united the islands and established the Hawaiian Kingdom in the early 1800’s) and The Ali`i Suite (chief in Hawaiian.)

The Kamehameha Suite is the Resort’s top suite (#H650.) Located oceanfront on the 6th floor of the Hokulani tower, the interior is 2650 square feet and the lanai is 3200 square feet. Professionally decorated in a contemporary island style with a nod to Hawaii’s golden era, a sunset color theme bounces off rich native koa wood tables and cabinets and beautiful one-of-a-kind artwork adorns the walls and display hutches.

Interior designer Kate Marnell with KRM Interiors of Chicago, Illinois assembled an array of artwork throughout the suite which includes works from several local artists and additional historical pieces. A rare collection of six original Matson Liner Menu covers portraying the history of the Hawaiian islands are posted at the master bedroom. The local artwork of numerous originals by Ronaldo Macedo, Darell Hill and Guy Buffet are placed throughout the suite. The historical works include antique maps of the Hawaiian islands including a Dole Pineapple map, Hawaiian sheet music and Asian silk panels.

The artwork compliments the Asian/island inspired furnishings. An Asian-styled A. Rudin sectional is covered in a coral fabric in the great room. The sectional is surrounded by two Colonial chairs (a style used prominently during the islands’ plantation era,) a grand coral lined hutch, koa wood built-ins, and a luxurious Baker dining table and chairs for eight. The bedrooms are furnished with Asian antiques offset with fresh, vibrant fabrics and plush Ralph Lauren furniture.

The lanai views are breathtaking and encompass more than 270 degrees wrapping from the West Maui Mountains, islands of Molokai and Lanai, and the crystal aquamarine Pacific Ocean. The expansive lanai has seating for a generous amount of people with contemporary teak David Sutherland furnishings. The lanai is meant to be used as an extension of the interior with a glass Nana wall system that pockets back opening up to the outdoors where guests can lounge on one of the three sun beds, whale watch on a chaise lounge, enjoy the sunset in the center seating area, and share dinner under the stars. The fabrics are rich oranges and greens with a complimentary nautical stripe. The outdoor beds are covered with plush pillows for comfort while relaxing or star gazing.

The Kamehameha Suite is priced at $2500 per night, plus taxes and resort fee.

The Ali`i Suites are located oceanfront on floors one through five at the end of the Hokulani tower with 2290 square feet of interior space and a 560-square-foot lanai in Konea Ali`i Suite is the end suites. Tastefully decorated in contemporary island furnishings and original artworks, The Ali`i Suites are priced at $1750 per night,

Specialty suite featured appointments include the following:

• Kitchen – completely equipped spacious kitchen includes Viking appliances, wood cabinetry, granite slab countertops, island counter for dinner preparation and additional seating.
• Bathroom - three sizeable bathrooms, one for each bedroom, includes frameless glass shower enclosures, separate tub, wood cabinetry, tile flooring, and fine linens and bath products.
• Bedroom - spacious, king size beds (second master has a split-king) in each of the three bedrooms, 37” flat screen TV, ample closet space.
• Lanai - large lanai ranging from 560 to 3200 sq. ft., fully furnished outdoor seating, outdoor Viking grill; collapsing Nana wall doors open to expansive lanai and/or garden areas (ground floor only)
• Living and Dining Area - 42” flat screen TV, comfortable arrangement of sofas and chairs including a queen-size sofa bed, dining room table with seating for eight, collapsing Nana wall doors open to expansive lanai and/or garden areas (ground floor only)
• Other Features - expansive views of ocean from interior and exterior of unit, all-room RussSound surround sound system, in-suite Bosch washer/dryer, direct dial telephones, wired and wireless internet access,

For reservations and information, please contact a travel professional, or call the Resort directly at 1-888-718-5789 from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. Hawaii Time, or visit www.honuakaimaui.com.

About Honua Kai Resort & Spa

Honua Kai offers a uniquely contemporary Maui experience. Nestled on 38 oceanfront acres of Kaanapali’s pristine North Beach, the resort is designed as two U-shaped buildings with ocean and mountain views, lush landscaping and expansive open spaces. This openness is mirrored in each of the 628 guest suites (one-, two-, and three-bedroom) with professionally equipped kitchens, spacious and homelike floor plans, and luxury resort services. An imaginative aqua network of pools, hot tubs, natural pond bridges, waterslide, waterfalls and fountains allows for privacy and play. The Hokulani building houses 318 guest suites, `Aina Gourmet Market, pool, fitness center, concierge desk and Family Fun Club. The Konea building has 310 guest suites, two pools. Duke’s Beach House is located oceanfront, and the pool & beach activities operate poolside.

“Pride Romance Package”For The Gay & Lesbian Community Introduced by Maui’s Makena Beach & Golf Resort

The Makena Beach & Golf Resort, located in Makena just south of Wailea, has announced a special package for the gay and lesbian community called the Pride Romance Package. The resort’s Pride Romance Package includes Guestroom Accommodations featuring stunning views of the Pacific, the Maui countryside and the 10,000-ft Mt. Haleakala, Breakfast for Two, a Map to/of famed Little Beach located less than a mile from the resort, and a Hawaiian Sarong, perfect for leisurely beach walks or relaxing at the resort. The package is priced at just $95* per person per night (double occupancy), making it one of Maui’s most exceptional resort values.

While at Makena Beach & Golf Resort, guests on the Pride Romance Package can select from a host of activities, including lounging at two swimming pools and two Jacuzzis, daily work-outs at the Fitness Center and relaxing massages. Additionally, there’s superb swimming in the crystal blue Pacific fronting the resort, beachcombing on Makena’s extraordinary white sand beach -- or Big & Little Beaches close by, whale watching in season (Dec.-May) when humpback whales migrate from the Alaskan waters, catching the brilliant Hawaiian sunrises and sunsets, and taking in a festive island luau. Also, the resort serves Maui’s “Best Champagne Brunch” every Sunday www.makenaresortmaui.com/brunch.

There’s More Things To Do.

Also available at Makena Beach & Golf Resort are Eco Kayak Snorkel Tours, outrigger canoe excursions, stand-up paddle board lessons, and sailing to Molokini Islet on the Kai Kanani catamaran. The Kai Kanani is conveniently located on the beach in front of Makena Beach & Golf Resort and is the most direct route to Molokini, where world-class snorkeling is available in and around the crescent-shaped island, which is all that remains of an ancient volcano. The 10,000-ft Mt. Haleakala is within clear view of the resort and is perfect for hiking, picnicking and walking excursions … or to take in the breathtaking Maui sunrises and sunsets. World-class golf is available on the resort’s golf courses, and the storied “Kings Highway,” originally traversed exclusively by the Hawaiian Ali'i (Royal Family), runs along side the resort and is ideal for leisurely walks. Nearby is Puu Olai hill, an ancient crater that offers hiking and superb views of Lanai, Molokini, Big Beach and the Pacific Ocean. All activities can be arranged through the Makena Beach & Golf Resort’s activity center.

Maui is also Home to Several Gay & Lesbian-friendly Activities:

- Gian Don’s Italian Bistro at 1445 South Kihei Road in K¥hei hosts “Ultra Fab” night every Wednesday, Friday and Saturday nights with live DJ entertainment. The restaurant and club also hosts a drag show two Saturdays a month. Information available at www.giandons.com, (808) 874-4041

- “Open Eye Tours” with Pono Fried, a guide with 26 years of experience available for private customized tours of the island. Information available www.openeyetours.com or (808) 280-5299.

Need more? Makena Beach & Golf Resort stocks multiple copies of Out Traveler Hawai‘i, a definitive guidebook to gay and lesbian activities in Hawaii by nationally recognized author and travel journalist Matt Link.

Benchmark Hospitality International Assumes Management of Resort in Makena, Maui -- the Makena Beach & Golf Resort

Benchmark Hospitality International has ushered in a new era for the Makena district of Maui, having been appointed as the management company for the sole hotel property in the Makena resort area on September 8, 2009. Benchmark announced the property’s new name is Makena Beach & Golf Resort, which highlights its ideal location. Benchmark also operates Turtle Bay Resort, the landmark property on Oahu’s North Shore.

Makena Beach & Golf Resort

The Makena resort area is situated on the southern shore of Maui in the Makena district of the island. The property commands sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean, as well as vistas of Makena’s diverse landscape and Mount Haleakala. Makena Beach & Golf Resort's 310 guestrooms, each featuring private lanais, are complemented with exceptional resort amenities and dining opportunities. The property is ideally designed to comfortably accommodate leisure travelers, as well as special event celebrations, weddings, and corporate meetings. Benchmark Hospitality International brings recognized and award-winning expertise in all areas of luxury hospitality, including corporate meetings and social gatherings. The resort is 30 minutes from Maui's Kahului Airport.

Separating Makena Beach & Golf Resort from the azure waters of the Pacific is a vast white sand beach, which is ideal for sunbathing, leisurely strolls, beachcombing and viewing Maui's spectacular ocean vistas. Water sports abound at the resort, along with exceptional tennis facilities. The resort features championship golf on the acclaimed Makena Golf Course, a Robert Trent Jones, Jr., 18-hole course that runs along the Pacific coastline, adjacent to the hotel. The course, which opened in 1993 and provides stunning ocean views from nearly every hole, is renowned for its ancient Hawaiian rock walls, natural gullies and stream beds, which were incorporated into the course's original design. Golfers and resort guests can further develop their skills at the property's Golf Academy, which provides instruction for all skill levels.

For more information on Makena Beach & Golf Resort and for reservations call (800) 368-8444 or (808) 874-1111, or visit www.makenaresortmaui.com.

About Benchmark Hospitality International

Benchmark Hospitality International is a leader in the management and marketing of resorts, conference centers, hotels, and Personal Luxury Hotels™. The privately held company, launched in 1980, is a founding member of the International Association of Conference Centers.  Benchmark Hospitality is a worldwide organization operating properties in major metropolitan and resort destinations. Benchmark's international headquarters is located in The Woodlands, Texas, near Houston, with regional offices in New Jersey and Connecticut. International offices are located in Tokyo, Japan, and Santiago, Chile. For the location of Benchmark’s properties and additional information, visit www.benchmarkhospitality.com.  

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.

What to See & Do

Maui Nui Botanical Gardens

I had the pleasure of being at these beautiful gardens with my husband and grandson in August 2017 to view the over 30 years old collection that is most impressive. Situated on a coastal dune system featuring native Hawaiian coastal and dry forest plants, the site was formerly both a zoo and a botanical garden. The zoo was closed in 1997.

Maui Nui refers to Maui County: Maui, Moloka'i, Lana'i and Kaho'olawe, once a single contiguous island with many related species. The native plants here are largely uniaue to the islands of Maui County, and have adapted to low rainfall, and are becoming very popular in local landscapes. There are rare cultivars of Hawaiian 'canoe' plants that a highly successful, self-sufficent agricultural society developed in isolation for thousands of years.

We enjoyed strolling through the many garden areas, including the bamboo, koi pond and much more - all designated by explanation signs. The colorful folder including with admission give the plants' names, photos, and family.

Don't forget to check out the horned lizards and also the gift shop where you can pick up lovely things to take home as well as buy drinks. If Caro is there, tell her 'hi' from me.

Location: 150 Kanaloa Avenue, Kahului, HI 96732.

Hours: Monday through Saturday 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Hawaii Standard Time.

Kealia Pond National Wildlife Refuge

What a pleasure to walk along the lovely boardwalk (open seven days a week and on federal holidays from 6:30 a.m. to 7 p.m.) where we spotted the Hawaiian Stilt in the wetland habitat, along with the Hawaiian Coot, numerous butterflies, and lots of wildlife. As a treat, we left the boardwalk at certain spots, walked down to the beach and delighted in splashing our feet in the water.

Kealia Pond is one of the few remaining lowland wetlands in Hawaii, and the largest on Maui. It provides vital nesting, feeding, and resting habitat for two endangered Hawaiian waterbirds - the Hawaiian Stilt and the Hawaiian Coot - which we were fortunate to see first-hand.

Bring binoculars with you for a coser look at wildlife; a field guide is very helpful; and take water, camera, and wear a hat.

The refuge is open M-F from 7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m., and is closed on weekends and federal holidays. The Visitor Center is open M-F from 8 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., and closed on weekends and federal holidays. Admission is free to the boardwalk and refuge.

For more information contact the Refuge Manager, Kealia Pond National Wildlife Refuge, Maui National Wildlife Reguge Complex, Milepost 6 Mokulele Highway (Highway 311), P.O., Box 1042, Khei, Hawaii 96753 or call 808-875-1582. Website: www.fws.gov/refuge/kealia_pond/

Hike Maui Offers New Canyon Adventures

Maui’s oldest hike company, Hike Maui celebrated its 25th Anniversary in 2008 and is offering a brand-new canyon adventure. There’s nothing else like it – the newest activity on Maui – rappelling, also called canyoning, into wilderness rain forest valleys. You don’t need previous experience; they’ll teach you how to do it. It’s perfectly safe and wildly fun. You learn to rappel down a 45-foot wall into the canyon below, then come back up and practice again. After that, you’re ready for the big one – the 60-foot drop via a guided rappel line. It’s so much fun, you do that again, too. You finish by hiking down the valley to three waterfalls and pools. You then free climb down the roots of a banyan tree to a magical spot under a 20-foot falls. A waterfall shower never felt so good.

Surfing Goat Dairy

Located in Kula on Maui, this place is fun for all ages. Opt for a tour: Casual Tour 30 min. where you'll see the whole operation. Pet and feed the goats, larn about rhser smart 'ladies' and how they are milked on the milk stand, see the cheese making area and sample a few cheeses. The Evening Chore Tour 60 min. is a more extensive version of the casual tour. In addition to feeding and petting the goats, you'll learn how to milk a goat and watch them get machine milked. The Grand Dairy Tour takes 2.5 hours (reservation required) and is hands-on live experience hand miling and herding the goats. You'll learn how the cheese is made and enjoy a grand cheese tasting at the end.

The cheeses are made daily without any pesticides or herbicides on this certified humane farm. No hormones or steriods either. Do stop in at the gift shop where you'll find loads of things to take home - from funny signs, to gourmet goat cheese truffles, all kinds of cheeses, goat milk soaps, and much more. Also plan on staying for lunch. They serve cheese flights, panini sandwiches and other goodies.

Surfing Goat Dairy is located at 3651 Omaopio Road, Kula, Maui, Hawaii 96790. Call 808-878-2870 to confirm hours - normally Monday-Saturday from 9 am-5 pm; Sunday 9am-2pm. Or E-mail infor at info@surfinggoatdairy.com; web site www.surfinggoatdairy.com.

Kapalua Resort Opens Kapalua Adventure’s Zip Line Tours

Maui’s renowned Kapalua Resort has now opened Kapalua Adventures, a unique amenity that offers visitors a rare outdoor experience that is as exciting as educational. Kapalua Adventures offers one of the largest and longest zip line systems in North America, which includes eight dual track zip lines, two suspension bridges, a high ropes challenge course, a four station climbing tower and Giant “leap of faith” swing. The unique zip line system enables guests quietly zip above the tree canopies and deep ravines of the area. More than just adventure, the Mountain Outpost experience offers guests the opportunity to learn about the geological, natural and cultural history of the area from knowledgeable guides. In combination length, the Mountain Outpost offers two miles of scenic adventure, with the longest zip line at 2,200 feet in length.

Maui Gold Pineapple Tour is “Extra Sweet”

For nearly 100 years, Maui Pineapple Company, Ltd. has been growing pineapple. The company recently revealed its new extra sweet Maui Gold ® variety. Maui Gold pineapple is specially cultivated, individually hand-selected and picked only when fully ripe and ready to eat. It takes approximately 18 months to grow one pineapple. As the Nation’s only resort with a working pineapple plantation, guests can take pleasure in a guided tour of the fields to learn all about pineapple planting, cultivation and harvesting. Tour guides will share plantation and Hawaiian history and memorable Maui Pineapple Company stories. Guides will pick and cut a fresh pineapple for tasting in the middle of the pineapple fields. Guests also hand select their very own pineapple to take home. Tours are Monday-Friday. Tickets cost $39.95 per person and $32 for children. For reservations, please call 808-665-5491.

Hyatt Regency Maui Resort and Spa Offers New Catamaran Service

Luxury sailing vessels Kapalua Kai and Shangri-La offer guests a first class sailing,
snorkeling and whale watching experience. The Kapalua Kai offers daily snorkel
excursions with a buffet deli-style lunch and open premium bar after snorkeling. Daily sunset sails offer a memorable sunset with a premium open bar and appetizers. Whale watching trips are available in-season. Shangri-La is a 65-foot sailing yacht available for custom-designed charters for snorkel excursions, scuba diving, outer island adventures, sunset sails, whale watching or dinner cruises. Providing a unique Hawaiian Island experience with impeccable service, hospitality and cuisine, the yacht features spacious air-conditioned living quarters and plush lounging and sunbathing areas. The vessel features a full galley with chef-prepared catering.

Private Adventure Guide Creates One-of-a-Kind Travel Experiences

Guests of Wailea Beach Villas can explore Maui in the hands of the resort’s private adventure guide who entertains, educates and awakens guests to the unique outdoor activities and environments of Maui. Wailea Beach Villas vacationers can experience this special service with its “Maui Adventure Guide Experience” package which includes five nights accommodation in a two bedroom penthouse and one, complimentary half-day excursion with the resort’s private adventure guide. The package rate begins at $1,225 per person based on four people in a two-bedroom penthouse. For their Maui adventure experience, guests can choose from hiking in a bamboo forest to an outrigger canoe trip complete with snorkeling, surf lessons and more. The half-day activity can be customized to meet the needs of each group. For more information, please visit
www.waileabeachvillas.com or call (866) 901-5209.

Two Outrigger condominium resorts rated among Hawaii’s best resorts by Expedia® Insider Select™

The Outrigger Kiahuna Plantation and Outrigger Waipouli Beach Resort & Spa have received the distinguished honor of being ranked as two of the top resorts in Hawaii on Expedia’s Insiders’ Select list of the world’s best hotels for 2009. Only twenty resorts in Hawaii were included out of nearly 1,000 worldwide properties. The exclusive list represents the top one percent of the more than 80,000 hotels Expedia.com offers, as rated by millions of customers and in-house experts.

The Expedia Insiders’ Select list recognizes the very best hotels as judged by the experiences of Expedia customers. According to Tim Alex, director of sales and marketing for Outrigger’s Condominium Collection, “We’re honored that two Outrigger resort condominiums have been listed amongst some of the most elite hotels and resorts in the world. We take great pride in ensuring our guests enjoy the best vacation experience available in Hawaii and this honor validates our commitment to all of our guests.”

Outrigger Kiahuna Plantation was rated second out of Hawaii’s ranked properties for its extraordinary service and overall value. Located oceanfront on Kauai’s prestigious south side in Poipu, the property enjoys an oceanfront setting on 35 acres with expansive lawns and botanical gardens of tropical plants, exotic lauhala trees, giant orchids, lily ponds and a world-famous succulent and cactus garden. The units, ornamented with golden warm woods and bright prints, are low-rise plantation style buildings that provide spacious and naturally cooled one- or two-bedroom apartments complete with a large lanai and full kitchen.

Guests can enjoy complimentary access to the Kiahuna Swim and Tennis Club located on the north side of the property that features a lagoon-shaped pool, a jetted spa, and a waterslide. Other features include tennis courts, barbeque areas, a restaurant, and a beachside activity hut with towels for guests and sunscreen and other sundries for sale.Nearby, guests have endless recreational opportunities including golfing, kayaking, sailing, scuba and snorkeling, helicopter and airplane sightseeing and more that can be arranged by the local expert concierge.

Outrigger Waipouli Beach Resort & Spa made Expedia’s Insiders’ Select list for the second year in a row. Located on the scenic south shore of Kauai, the hotel is situated on the island’s famed Coconut Coast, just a short mile from historic Kapaa Town. This condominium resort offers exquisite one- and two-bedroom accommodations, adorned with warm Indonesian wood and cool Peruvian tiles. Each air-conditioned unit is equipped with Sub-Zero refrigerators, Wolf convection ovens, and sleek granite countertops as well as microwaves, coffeemakers, cookware and dishes.

The resort is situated on 12.6 oceanfront acres between the historic towns of Wailua and Kapaa where great dining, galleries and charming shops can be found. On-property amenities include a 24-hour fitness room, poolside Tahitian Lanai Bar, an activity desk and an Aveda® Lifestyle Salon and Spa.

The Aveda Lifestyle Salon and Spa offers guests a full menu of massages, facials, and more 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.

Nightly rates at the Outrigger Kiahuna Plantation start at just $205 for a one-bedroom unit that comfortably sleeps up to four people. At the Outrigger Waipouli Beach Resort & Spa, rates start at $225 per night for a one-bedroom, two-bath suite , and $305 per night for a two-bedroom, three-bath condominium unit that provides plenty of room for up to six people. For reservations or more information, log onto www.outriggercondos.com, or call 1-800-OUTRIGGER.

Haleakula National Park

Where to Stay

Esquared Hospitality Announes Exciting New Events and Promotions at BLT Market and BLT Steak Waikiki

ESquared Hospitality, the parent company of BLT Market and BLT Steak Waikiki, promises to end the year with a bang with the following new events and promotions:

New BLT Market Monthly Dinner Series
BLT Market takes its partnerships with local farms and purveyors to a new level with its monthly dinner series Limited to just 10 guests per dinner, each intimate event will be held in the restaurant’s private dining room and will include a 1⁄2 hour cocktail reception followed by a 6-course dinner, using products or produce from the featured farm, as well as an engaging talk story with a representative of that purveyor. Price is $95 per person plus tax and gratuity, with an optional alcoholic beverage pairing for an additional $35 per person. Listed below are the participating farmers:

“Molokai Ranch,” : Known for producing premium cuts of beef, oxtail, rib eye, short ribs, beef cheeks and tenderloins. Beverage pairing will include an assortment of beer and wines.

“Kualoa Ranch,” : Known for its signature Kualoa Oysters, shrimp and breadfruit. Beverage pairing will include cocktails using fruits from Kualoa Ranch.

“A Walk Through Mari’s Garden,” : Known for its use of aquaponics to grow ingredients such as Bibb lettuce, baby romaine, baby Roma tomato, purple spinach, baby carrots and baby beets. Beverage pairing options includes cocktails using produce from Mari's Garden and wine pairings.

For reservations, email: jordyn@bltmarket.com
For more information about BLT Market and BLT Steak, please visit bltrestaurants.com/blt-steak/waikiki

About BLT Market

BLT Market is a concept that highlights the best of Hawaii’s regional and seasonal offerings. Featuring an all-day menu, brunch on the weekends and unique offerings including an overnight menu and specialty tea service, BLT Market will offer a dining experience ripe for any season.

The menu will rotate daily to feature the season’s best bounty with a focus on fresh ingredients available from local purveyors and Hawaii farmers, while highlighting first-of-the-season produce and select proteins. 

The airy dining room is decorated in shades of coffee and cream, accented by natural wood and pops of green throughout the space, as well shelves adorned with plants, contemporary light fixtures and chairs paired with textured velvet banquettes. For more information about BLT Market, please visitewww.bltmarket.com.

ABOUT BLT STEAK WAIKIKI

Located in The Trump International Hotel Waikiki, BLT Steak brings the brand’s signature style to the beautiful island of Waikiki. The restaurant combines the classic American steakhouse, with Island accents, creating a truly modern experience that is both comforting and refined. BLT Steak Waikiki is best known for its signature warm Popovers which start every meal, as well as a variety of high-quality specialty steaks, fresh seafood, generous sides and indulgent desserts in addition to a happy hour menu for both island residents and hotel guests alike to enjoy. The menu boasts staples including fresh Tuna Tartare, a 28-Day Dry-Aged NY Strip, Sautéed Dover Sole, Truffle Mashed Potatoes and Peanut Butter Chocolate Mousse. Weekly blackboard specials also highlight seasonal flavors and ingredients. An award-winning wine list features a broad selection of both Old World and New World varieties, as well as bottled beers and handcrafted house cocktails, serving as tempting complements for each meal. BLT Steak Waikiki is open daily; private event space is also available. For more information and hours of operation, please call visit bltrestaurants.com/blt-steak/waikiki, follow @BLTrestaurants on Instagram, on Facebook at facebook.com/BLTSteakRestaurants, and on Twitter @BLTSteakWaikiki.

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 65 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®, Courtyard® by Marriott, and Wyndham Vacation Ownership®. Currently, Outrigger operates and/or has under development 46 properties with more than 11,000 rooms located in Hawaii; Australia; Guam; Fiji; Bali; Phuket, Thailand; Vietnam; and Hainan Island, 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.

Hyatt Place Waikiki Beach Has Opened Its Doors

Hyatt Place Waikiki Beach will be the first property of the Hyatt Place brand to be introduced to the Hawaii market, combining stylish design and practical amenities with forward-thinking technology and purposeful service. Also, this destination location will be the largest Hyatt Place hotel in the country, featuring a total of 426 rooms, 191 in the Pali Tower and 235 in the Diamond Tower.

Located just steps from the southwest end of the Waikiki Beach, the hotel offers guests access to the best views and the clearest and warmest water. Its close proximity to the area’s most exclusive shopping district, world-class restaurants, natural attractions such as the famed Diamond Head volcanic crater, and a variety of other important sights and museums in Waikiki, makes it the perfect hotel for leisure tourists and business travelers. Families will appreciate that the hotel is conveniently located near popular visitor attractions, such as Kapiolani Park, the Honolulu Zoo, and the Waikiki Aquarium.

Turtle Bay Resort

Gets Stoked -- Iconic surf resort on Oahu’s North Shore is the first in Hawaii to be awarded STOKE Certified’s ‘Sustainable’ designation

Turtle Bay Resort on Oahu’s fabled North Shore recently joined an elite group of surf resorts that have taken on the challenge of sustainability with STOKE Certified—the world’s first sustainability certification program to focus exclusively on surf and snow resorts.

STOKE Certified undertook an intensive onsite evaluation of Turtle Bay Resort against 142 criteria and 326 sustainability indicators resulting in a compliance score of 83%. This easily surpassed the minimum requirements for certification enabling Turtle Bay Resort to become the second surf resort in the world, and the first in Hawaii, to be awarded STOKE’s designation of ‘Sustainable’ certification.

Turtle Bay Resort guests can rest and surf easy knowing that their vacation is supporting community development projects, environmental conservation, cultural heritage preservation, and the enhancement of marine ecosystems as well as surf resources, and that they are getting the best surf guiding and safety services available anywhere.

Scott McCormack, Vice President of Real Estate for Turtle Bay Resort, stated, “It’s an honor to be awarded this prestigious designation, resulting from our continued commitment to environmental sustainability and stewardship. Over the past year we’ve collaborated with STOKE to further our master plan for the benefit of all guests who seek a resort experience that is in keeping with the spirit of the North Shore.”

Turtle Bay Resort is the only destination resort on Oahu’s fabled North Shore – Mecca of the surfing world. Situated on 852 acres, it offers outdoor enthusiasts four and a half miles of shoreline and 12 miles of hiking trails to enjoy and explore. This is in addition to 36 holes of championship golf and a wide array of ocean and land activities.

For a detailed list of Turtle Bay Resort’s best practices with photographs, visit their STOKE Certified profile at stokecertified.com/members/turtle-bay-resort.

Turtle Bay Resort Preserves Open Space

Land conservation history was made today as Turtle Bay Resort and a collaboration of public entities, led by the State of Hawaii, completed an agreement to preserve in perpetuity nearly 630 acres of open space along Oahu’s North Shore coastline. This massive property covering a four-mile stretch from Kahuku Point to Kawela Bay will now remain undeveloped forever.

Conde Nast Traveler Names Turtle Bay Resort Named A “Top Hawaii Golf Resort”

Turtle Bay Resort, the only luxury resort on Oahu’s fabled North Shore, has been named to the prestigious Condé Nast Traveler “Top 15 Hawaii Golf Resorts” list for 2012. Turtle Bay is a Personal Luxury Resort of Benchmark Hospitality International, a leading US-based hospitality management company, which operates the landmark property. Turtle Bay Resort was selected for the Top Hawaii Golf Resorts list based on the results of Condé Nast Traveler’s annual Readers’ Choice Survey, with more than eight million votes cast by the savvy travelers that make up the magazine’s readers.

Last October 2012, five additional Benchmark Hospitality International hotels and resorts were named to Condé Nast Traveler’s Best in the World list, including:

Top 200 US Hotels List:

Bardessono, Yountville, Napa Valley, California*
Hotel 1000, Seattle, Washington*
Hotel Contessa, San Antonio, Texas

Top 150 Mainland US Resorts List:

Costa d'Este Beach Resort, Vero Beach, Florida*
Willows Lodge, Woodinville, Washington*

To access the complete Condé Nast Traveler Top Golf Resorts in the World listing, including The Top 15 Hawaii Golf Resorts, visit www.cntraveler.com/golf-resorts/polls/2012/best-golf-resorts-hotels-2012

About Turtle Bay Resort

There’s one North Shore on Oahu. And there’s one resort on it. Ideal for watermen, wave watchers or waders, Turtle Bay Resort is at the epicenter of set after set of activities, events and adventures. Complete with the finest accommodations and amenities suited for the entire family, Turtle Bay Resort is where the “7-Mile Miracle” begins and the lineup is endless. To stay up to date on the Turtle Bay surfing experience, check out TurtleBaySurf.com.

The 840-acre Turtle Bay Resort is operated by Benchmark Hospitality International and is a Preferred Hotels® & Resorts Worldwide property - a collection of the world's finest independent luxury hotels. For reservations or more information, visit www.turtlebayresort.com or call (808) 293-6000.

What about BOB? Check Out the Aston Waikiki Beach Hotel

With so much to explore on Oahu, it isn’t always easy to find time for an elaborate sit-down breakfast. With that in mind, Aston Waikiki Beach Hotel would like you to meet “BOB,” or in other words, their signature “Breakfast on the Beach.” Widely regarded as one of Waikiki’s best amenities, BOB offers guests a variety of to-go breakfast items to take along in keepsake souvenir coolers. With hotel rates starting at only $129 per night with Aston’s Vacation Bailout promotion, BOB is easily one of the best deals in Waikiki.

Served on the pool deck each morning from 6:30 to 8:30 a.m., Aston Waikiki Beach Hotel is the only property in Waikiki to offer this unique amenity. Guests have the freedom to enjoy breakfast poolside while listening to live music, from their own private balcony with spectacular Diamond Head or ocean views, on Waikiki Beach, or on the road while exploring the island’s exciting destinations.

BOB offers a wide selection of hot and cold breakfast items including mango, haupia (coconut) and papaya-flavored yogurts, fruit cups, cereals, freshly baked pastries and muffins, quiches, breakfast wraps and sandwiches, and an Asian food station complete with miso soup, tsukemono (pickled vegetables) and oriental salad.

Located across the street from world-famous Waikiki Beach, and within walking distance of the Waikiki Aquarium and Honolulu Zoo, Aston Waikiki Beach Hotel is a contemporary, full-service hotel featuring an urban-Hawaiian beach theme décor and a warm and friendly staff. Guests can experience Hawaii regional cuisine and live entertainment nightly at on-site Tiki’s Grill & Bar.

Each guest also receives Aston’s free Aloha Book, which contains offers worth up to $2,000 in savings on dining, shopping and activities (one book per room reservation). The book, which doubled in value from 2008, also serves as a guide to some of the best culture, history, cuisine and attractions on the island.

Aston’s year-round “Kids Stay, Play & Eat FREE” program means children 17 years and younger stay free when using existing bedding and children 12 years and younger receive free admission at top island attractions and free meals at popular family-friendly restaurants when accompanied by a paying adult. Unlike other hotel promotions that encourage kids to play and eat free within the resort, this program allows families to experience a variety of the destination’s activities and dining options.

About Aston Hotels & Resorts
Aston Hotels & Resorts, formerly ResortQuest Hawaii, operates a diverse range of condominium resorts and hotels with accommodations from hotel rooms and condominium suites, to villas and cottages that suit any lifestyle, taste or budget. Based in Honolulu, the company manages more than 4,300 rooms in 25 properties on the islands of Oahu, Maui, Kauai and Hawaii. For more information, visit www.AstonHotels.com or call toll free 866-774-2924.

Halekulani Announces the Debut of L’Aperitif --Iconic hotel introduces one-of-a-kind epicurean concept

Halekulani, celebrated for its personalized service, masterful cuisine and innovation, announces the launch of a unique new bar concept, L’Aperitif. Inspired by the extraordinary French cocktail culture of the late 19th Century, L’Aperitif is located in La Mer, Halekulani’s finest and Hawaii’s longest consecutively ranked AAA Five Diamond Restaurant. The creation of this new aperitif experience is part of a comprehensive Renewal at Halekulani, incorporating the founding values that have made Halekulani an iconic global destination.

“This new historically-based bar concept is a nod to the Belle Époque – a period of French history when peace and prosperity allowed the arts and sophisticated Parisian social culture to reach unprecedented heights from the latter nineteenth century until the start of World War I. Reflecting the French neo-classical cuisine philosophy which is the enduring hallmark of La Mer, the aperitif was the very symbol of Belle Époque lifestyle that encouraged the period’s remarkable joie de vivre, where individuals relaxed and celebrated life through fine spirits and social interaction,” said Peter Shaindlin, Chief Operating Officer of Halekulani Corporation. “L’Aperitif pays tribute to this classical French tradition and cultural pastime while also celebrating Halekulani’s precious legacy.”

L’Aperitif may be enjoyed as a prelude to fine dining at La Mer or other Halekulani restaurants, or simply as its own destination experience. Conceived by Halekulani and executed in close collaboration with the legendary Ritz Paris and Head Barman Colin Field of its iconic Hemingway Bar, the elegant yet relaxed L’Aperitif spirits and amuse bouche offerings whet the appetite without overwhelming the senses.  Field, long recognized as “Best Barman in the World” by Forbes and other luxury media institutions, consulted in the bar’s overall redevelopment including staff training and creation of unique aperitif and menu pairings in tandem with Halekulani’s renowned chefs.

Halekulani Executive Chef Vikram Garg and La Mer Chef de Cuisine Alexandre Tranche have created unique food pairings to complement L’Aperitif’s cocktail offerings. Signature cocktails include The Serendipity and Hemingway Old Fashioned.  Small samplings such as Oyster with Lychee Ginger Sorbet, Sumak Shrimp with Sweet Chili Aioli, Big Island Goat Cheese with Cinnamon Tuile and Pickled Beetroot are featured on the menu’s Cocktail Accompagnements.

“L’Aperitif fuses Halekulani’s indigenous Hawaiian hospitality and unmatched levels of personalized service and quality with The Ritz Paris’ timeless elegance and incomparable sophistication, creating a consummate epicurean experience that is not duplicated anywhere else in the world,” said Shaindlin.

L’Aperitif is open from 6pm to 10pm daily, reservations not required. Gentlemen are asked to wear long-sleeved collared shirts, jackets encouraged. As an elegant fine dining restaurant, La Mer restricts patrons to adults and children 8 years or older.

About Halekulani
Since its inception in 1984, Halekulani has received more than five hundred accolades, awards and honoraria, and is consistently ranked among the world’s finest hotels. SpaHalekulani, amongst many others, earned the coveted Forbes Four-Star rating, the highest bestowed upon any spa by the Forbes Travel Guide, and was ranked the #2 Best Resort Spa in North America by Conde Nast Traveler. Halekulani’s fine dining restaurant, La Mer, is Hawaii’s longest ranked AAA-Five Diamond restaurant. Halekulani is managed by the Hotels and Resorts of Halekulani, a brand management division of the Honolulu-based Halekulani Corporation, which also manages Waikiki Parc Hotel. Halekulani is a member of The Leading Hotels of the World and is aligned with Tokyo’s legendary Imperial Hotel. For reservations and information, please contact a travel planner, call Halekulani at (800) 367-2343 / (808) 923-2311 or visit www.halekulani.com / www.halekulani.com/the_art_of_renewal/.

Jimmy Buffett's Latest Dining & Entertainment Destination at the OHANA Waikiki Beachcomber

Hoakalei County Club Has Hawaii's First New Ernie Els-designed Signature 18-hole Golf Course

The Shack Opens in Waikiki

Cassis by Chef Mavro Now Opened

Chef George “Mavro” Mavrothalassitis has opened a second O‘ahu restaurant called “Cassis by Chef Mavro” in downtown Honolulu. The casual, yet sophisticated, 295-seat restaurant overlooking Honolulu Harbor is a tribute to the straightforward cooking style and dishes of his youth with an island flair and is inspired by four places – Cassis, Paris, Alsace, and Honolulu. Chef Mavro is also the owner of “Chef Mavro” restaurant, which was recently named one of the Top 10 Restaurants in the World by Fodor’s.

For reservations or more information, visit ChefMavro.com.

WAIKIKI

What to See & Do