Hawaii

Description:

Alii Kahekili Nui 'Ahumahi Beach Park extends north more than a mile from Black Rock. This is a newly established beach park with full facilities including: picnic tables, grills, showers, restrooms and changing rooms. The picnic pavilion lies in a grassy area that backs the beach. The park has a gate and is open to the public from 6:00 - 6:30 everyday. Parking is easy with a paved lot designated for park use. The beach itself is wide and sandy, but has a steep descent into the water. There is snorkeling at either end of this beach at Black Rock and Honokowai Point.

Our Local Expert Says:

An idyllic cove of white sand between the condominiums.

Description:

The Honokowai Beach Park lies north of Honokowai Point on a rocky stretch of shoreline. A rocky area lies immediately off the beach diminishing the swimming conditions, although there is a shallow area that may interest children. The north end of this beach provides access to an outer reef for snorkeling. The park itself lies in a grassy, shaded area with eleven picnic tables and five grills. Other facilities include restrooms, showers and a large parking area.

Description:

Black Rock beach lies at Keka'a Point backed by the Sheraton Hotel. This is the northern end of the Ka'anapali/Hanakao'o Beach. Black Rock is well known for excellent swimming conditions and the best snorkeling in Ka'anapali. The rock formation that forms Keka'a Point consists of black lava rock the extends into the ocean and supports a variety of fish and coral. This beach has full facilities as well as equipment rental. Snorkelers and swimmers are encouraged to check conditions of currents around Black Rock at the Sheraton beach hut.

Description:

The owners of the Old Lahaina Luau have recruited the culinary prowess of chef James McDonald (I'O and Pacific'O), found the perfect outdoor oceanfront setting, and added the exquisite dancers of the Old Lahaina Luau. The result: a culinary and cultural experience that sizzles. As if the sunset weren't heady enough, dances from Hawaii, New Zealand, Tahiti, and Samoa are presented, up close and personal, in full costumed splendor. Chanting, singing, drumming, dancing, the swish of ti-leaf skirts, the scent of plumeria -- it's a full adventure, even for the most jaded luau aficionado. Guests sit at white-clothed, candlelit tables set on the sand (unlike the luau, where seating is en masse) and dine on entrees from each island: imu-roasted kalua pig from Hawaii, Maori fishcake from New Zealand, poisson cru from Tahiti, and beef with breadfruit from Samoa. Particularly mesmerizing is the evening's opening: A softly lit canoe carries three people ashore to the sound of conch shells.

Description:

Surfing, while never easy, is certainly more fun at this West Maui surf school. Head instructor Tim Sherer and his dedicated staff keep classes small to ensure that each person gets enough attention. As a result, testimonials and words of thanks keep coming from satisfied customers worldwide. The school also offers board rentals, intermediate lessons and guided surf safaris to prime Maui surf spots. Direct booking is encouraged.

Description:

Milagros has gained a following with its great home-style cooking, upbeat atmosphere, and highly touted margaritas. Sit outdoors and watch the parade of Willie Nelson look-alikes ambling by as you tuck into the ahi creation of the evening, a combination of Southwestern and Pacific Rim styles and flavors accompanied by fresh veggies and Kula greens. For breakfast, I recommend the Popeye spinach omelet or the huevos rancheros. Lunch ranges from ahi burgers and Clayton's One-Pound Burger to honey and mac-nut grilled salmon salad. For dinner, options include a grilled ahi burrito, seafood enchiladas, New York strip steak, shrimp pasta, and even Chesapeake Bay crab cakes. I love Paia's tie-dyes, beads, and hippie flavor, and this is the front-row seat for it all. Watch for happy hour, with cheap and fabulous margaritas.

Description:

This 22-acre resort is just up the street from ritzy Princeville Resort , overlooking the fabled Bali Hai cliffs and Hanalei Bay. It has the same majestic view, and until recently was a deal. But on our last visit here we were bitterly disappointed in the level of upkeep, the musty smell in our unit, general maintenance and repair work that needed to be done to the entire property, weeds in the once pristine landscape, and so forth. New management claims they are aware of the problems and are diligently working to make the necessary repairs and bring this once fabulous resort back. I'm keeping my fingers crossed that they will follow through because I have always loved staying here: Guests can choose from units ranging from a hotel room to a studio or one-bedroom suite (with kitchen). The units all stair-step down the hill to a gold-sand, palm-fringed beach. Shuttle service is available for those who may have problems walking on the steep hillside. Plus: Travelers should be aware that this property offers timeshares.

Facilities: Restaurant; bar; 2 inviting outdoor freshwater pools; complimentary shuttle to Princeville Resort's top-ranked golf courses; 8 tennis courts, pro shop, and tennis school; Jacuzzi; concierge; activities desk; massage; babysitting; coin-op washer/dryers; laundry; dry cleaning

Description:

Hanalei Bay is an amazing destination for different reasons, at different times of the year. When visiting these shores during the winter, visitors should always check with a lifeguard before entering the water. Hanalei Bay boasts 30 – 60 ft. waves at times during the winter, and is home to some of the best "Big Wave" surfers in the world. On the other end of the spectrum, during the summer this versatile bay changes, and boasts snorkeling, swimming, amazing sunsets, beautiful cliff sides, waterfalls and of course some of the best surfing in the world.

Description:

Kayaking is big in Hawaii. The perfect combination of exercise, adventure and sightseeing, this adventure appeals to all ages. Kayaking Hanalei cannot be beat. The famous bay is a vision of clear blue water and stunning mountain scenery, while the river figures heavily in Hawaiian history. The morning tour lasts four hours and includes snorkeling and lunch. The afternoon tour lasts three hours and traverses the Hanalei River. Call to reserve a seat.

Description:

This 22-acre resort is just up the street from ritzy Princeville Resort , overlooking the fabled Bali Hai cliffs and Hanalei Bay. It has the same majestic view, and until recently was a deal. But on our last visit here we were bitterly disappointed in the level of upkeep, the musty smell in our unit, general maintenance and repair work that needed to be done to the entire property, weeds in the once pristine landscape, and so forth. New management claims they are aware of the problems and are diligently working to make the necessary repairs and bring this once fabulous resort back. I'm keeping my fingers crossed that they will follow through because I have always loved staying here: Guests can choose from units ranging from a hotel room to a studio or one-bedroom suite (with kitchen). The units all stair-step down the hill to a gold-sand, palm-fringed beach. Shuttle service is available for those who may have problems walking on the steep hillside. Plus: Travelers should be aware that this property offers timeshares.

Facilities: Restaurant; bar; 2 inviting outdoor freshwater pools; complimentary shuttle to Princeville Resort's top-ranked golf courses; 8 tennis courts, pro shop, and tennis school; Jacuzzi; concierge; activities desk; massage; babysitting; coin-op washer/dryers; laundry; dry cleaning

Description:

This is considered Kaui'i's best hike, but it is a difficult one. Views include the Na Pali Coast, surrounding valleys, waterfalls, and ancient ruins. There is a shorter, two-mile version from Ke'e Beach to Hanakapi'ai.

The Kalalau Trail provides the only land access to this part of the coast. The trail begins at Ke'e Beach in Ha'ena State Park, at the northwest end of Kuhio Highway (Route 56). The eleven-mile trail traverses five valleys before ending at Kalalau Beach in Na Pali State Park, where it is blocked by sheer, fluted Pali. The trail is almost never level as it crosses above towering sea cliffs and through lush valleys. The trail drops to sea level at the beaches of Hanakapi'ai and Kalalau. For most backpackers in good condition, hiking the eleven miles will take a full day.

For experienced swimmers, knowledgeable in local sea conditions, nearshore waters offer limited opportunities for swimming and bodysurfing. Follow Highway 560 to Haena Beach Park. This is a good alternative to leaving your car at the trailhead as it is much safer. The trailhead is a one mile hike west from Haena Beach Park.

Description:

Feeling adventurous? Take the 4 mile hike out to Hanakapi'ai Falls along the majestic Na Pali Trail. Hikers begin their journey fm Ke'e Beach along the Na Pali Trail for 2 miles to Hanakapi'ai Beach. Enjoy the scenery, but do not swim here as the conditions can be unforgiving. Turn left up the valley and follow the trail across swimming holes and beautiful high jungle, all the way to Hanakapi'ai Falls. These falls are breathtaking from their origins 100's of feet up all the way down to the swimming hole at the bottom. This is a truly rewarding experience, and a great way for experienced hikers to enjoy the Na Pali Coast in a single day.

Our Local Expert Says:

Check it out and don't forget the snorkel and mask. It's a picturesque location.

Description:

Snorkeling, sand, and sun awaits at the end of the road. Located at the north end of the Na Pali Coast, Ke'e Beach is home to a unique natural swimming pool thanks to a reef protecting it from the open ocean. Like most beaches on Kaua'i, swimmers and snorkelers need to be careful, but the snorkeling here is some of the best on the north side. Snorkelers can explore in the pool and very experienced snorkelers can go outside of it and explore the open ocean. A lifeguard watches over the beach here and there are also restrooms and showers.

Parking is extremely limited here so it's hit or miss, but the beach is worth the wait. One of the reasons parking is scarce is that the Kalalau trail head is also here so many cars are left for the day or overnight. Strolling to the right eventually leads to the former site of an old hippie camp called Taylor Camp where they lived on the beach for almost a decade in tree houses and living without rules. Ke'e is also an ideal place to watch the sunset.

Description:

This 22-acre resort is just up the street from ritzy Princeville Resort , overlooking the fabled Bali Hai cliffs and Hanalei Bay. It has the same majestic view, and until recently was a deal. But on our last visit here we were bitterly disappointed in the level of upkeep, the musty smell in our unit, general maintenance and repair work that needed to be done to the entire property, weeds in the once pristine landscape, and so forth. New management claims they are aware of the problems and are diligently working to make the necessary repairs and bring this once fabulous resort back. I'm keeping my fingers crossed that they will follow through because I have always loved staying here: Guests can choose from units ranging from a hotel room to a studio or one-bedroom suite (with kitchen). The units all stair-step down the hill to a gold-sand, palm-fringed beach. Shuttle service is available for those who may have problems walking on the steep hillside. Plus: Travelers should be aware that this property offers timeshares.

Facilities: Restaurant; bar; 2 inviting outdoor freshwater pools; complimentary shuttle to Princeville Resort's top-ranked golf courses; 8 tennis courts, pro shop, and tennis school; Jacuzzi; concierge; activities desk; massage; babysitting; coin-op washer/dryers; laundry; dry cleaning

Description:

Waimea Canyon State Park preserves the Waimea River and the terrain that surrounds it beginning about six miles north of the town of Waimea. The park is a slender parcel of land that follows the river for approximately five miles. It includes a few canyon overlooks from which views of Ni'ihau Island are possible. Backcountry trails take adventurous visitors deep within the canyon for a closer look at flora and fauna. A short nature trail provides an opportunity for plant identification.

This state park provides access to a variety of recreation pursuits. Picnicking and viewing scenery top the activity list for many visitors to the park. Hiking and backpacking opportunities are also available within the park and the adjoining nature reserve. Other pursuits open to visitors include shore fishing and pig and goat hunting.

This state park is located in the western interior of Kaua'i and is accessible from Kokee and Waimea Canyon Roads.

Description:

Perched on the Western shore of Kaua'i is the Westernmost brewpub in the country. It serves a variety of handcrafted beers, among them Pakala Porter and the signature brew, Wai'ale'ale Ale. The menu features an impressive array of Hawaiian bar food, which is like American bar food with an Asian twist. Pupus (appetizers) include Ale-Steamed Shrimp, nachos and the ubiquitous Ahi Poke (raw Ahi in shoyu). Sandwiches, salads, pastas and filling meat entrees are also served. Wednesdays through Saturdays the pub is alive with live music.

Description:

This 22-acre resort is just up the street from ritzy Princeville Resort , overlooking the fabled Bali Hai cliffs and Hanalei Bay. It has the same majestic view, and until recently was a deal. But on our last visit here we were bitterly disappointed in the level of upkeep, the musty smell in our unit, general maintenance and repair work that needed to be done to the entire property, weeds in the once pristine landscape, and so forth. New management claims they are aware of the problems and are diligently working to make the necessary repairs and bring this once fabulous resort back. I'm keeping my fingers crossed that they will follow through because I have always loved staying here: Guests can choose from units ranging from a hotel room to a studio or one-bedroom suite (with kitchen). The units all stair-step down the hill to a gold-sand, palm-fringed beach. Shuttle service is available for those who may have problems walking on the steep hillside. Plus: Travelers should be aware that this property offers timeshares.

Facilities: Restaurant; bar; 2 inviting outdoor freshwater pools; complimentary shuttle to Princeville Resort's top-ranked golf courses; 8 tennis courts, pro shop, and tennis school; Jacuzzi; concierge; activities desk; massage; babysitting; coin-op washer/dryers; laundry; dry cleaning

Our Local Expert Says:

Perfect beach for children and those who wish to relax in the ocean without waves or current.

Description:

Almost two miles of white sand, and shallow calm water thanks to a long fringing reef can be found at Anini Beach. Anini Beach Park, about half way down the road has camping, bathrooms, and showers, and is almost always crowded. Luckily beach access can be found the entire way down, with small parking spots dotting the road, each on a small or long stretch of beach where you'll most likely be alone if you stop at any of them.

Past the beach park the sand keeps going, and beach goers occupy the whole area down, although it's rarely crowded. Look for tide pools along the way, a swing under a tree, and at the end, there is ample parking under the ironwood trees. Right past here there is a stream that if fun for the kids to play in. Along the whole stretch the water is generally shallow, allowing for good swimming and snorkeling.

To get here, turn right on the second Kalihiwai Road headed north. Stick to the left at the fork in the road and keep going.

Description:

Maniniholo Dry Cave lies off Kuhio Highway across from Haena Beach Park on Kauai's north shore. The cave was once part of the shoreline, but erosion has created the beach between the cave and the ocean. The cave is approximately 300 yards deep and large enough to enter. Water constantly drips into the cave and down it's walls creating humidity inside of it.

Description:

This 22-acre resort is just up the street from ritzy Princeville Resort , overlooking the fabled Bali Hai cliffs and Hanalei Bay. It has the same majestic view, and until recently was a deal. But on our last visit here we were bitterly disappointed in the level of upkeep, the musty smell in our unit, general maintenance and repair work that needed to be done to the entire property, weeds in the once pristine landscape, and so forth. New management claims they are aware of the problems and are diligently working to make the necessary repairs and bring this once fabulous resort back. I'm keeping my fingers crossed that they will follow through because I have always loved staying here: Guests can choose from units ranging from a hotel room to a studio or one-bedroom suite (with kitchen). The units all stair-step down the hill to a gold-sand, palm-fringed beach. Shuttle service is available for those who may have problems walking on the steep hillside. Plus: Travelers should be aware that this property offers timeshares.

Facilities: Restaurant; bar; 2 inviting outdoor freshwater pools; complimentary shuttle to Princeville Resort's top-ranked golf courses; 8 tennis courts, pro shop, and tennis school; Jacuzzi; concierge; activities desk; massage; babysitting; coin-op washer/dryers; laundry; dry cleaning

Description:

Visitors to this national park can enjoy a diverse environment of volcanic mountains and craters, lava flows and rain forests. Over half of the park is designated wilderness and provides an unusual landscape for a variety of recreation opportunities.

Located just inside the park entrance, Kilauea Visitor Center offers visitor information and exhibits. Films and videos, highlighting the park's special features and current eruption, are shown in the auditorium. A schedule of Ranger-led walks/talks is posted on the Ranger Activities bulletin board in the visitor center at 9:00am each morning.

Located along Crater Rim Drive, three miles from the park entrance, the Thomas A. Jaggar Museum offers earth science displays and features murals depicting Hawaiian culture. An adjacent overlook offers a panoramic view of Kilauea Caldera and Mauna Loa.

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is located on the Island of Hawaii, 96 miles southeast of Kailua-Kona and 30 miles southwest of Hilo.

Description:

This company offers both morning and afternoon deluxe cruises. Morning trips include breakfast, a barbecue lunch and all necessary equipment. Afternoon trips include snacks, drinks and equipment. The boat comes equipped with an experienced crew, sun deck, water slide and restrooms. Cruises circle the Kealakekua Bay, stopping at some of the best snorkel spots in the area. See ancient burial caves, sunken lava flows, coral beds and plenty of tropical fish.

Our Local Expert Says:

A huge hot pond ocean side. A must see!

Description:

Located 30 miles outside of Hilo town along the Puna coast, Ahalanui County Park is one of those places that you could spend all day at sunbathing on the lawn or the lava rock cliffs, submerging yourself in the warm water, and having lunch at a picnic table under trees or a roof.

The main attraction is the large geothermal hot pond. Surrounded by towering coconut trees and jungle foliage, the remote pool is heated by underlying volcanic activity to a comfortable 90 degrees Fahrenheit, and is surrounded by a man-made lava rock wall. At the ocean end of the pond is a small gate made of metal bars where the ocean washes in and out, keeping the pond clean. Above the gate is a walkway that is horizontal to the cliffs lining the ocean perfect for a view of the coast or sunbathing. If you are facing the ocean, a walk over large lava boulders will take you to a lesser known surf break known as "Secrets." Definitely not for any surfers who are not experts, Secrets is another site you see and you may catch someone putting on a show for you in the dangerous and shallow waves.

A lifeguard is usually on duty during the day at Ahalanui, but if you come at night, you are on your own and make sure you bring a flashlight because it is pitch dark. The occasional local may decide to go topless, but the pond is not locally known as an official nude beach. Picnic tables are also on site, both under the trees and in covered pavilions, and portable toilets and showers are also available.

If you park in the lot on the pond side of the road, your car is pretty safe but bring anything of real value to the pond with you. There is a larger parking lot on the inland side of the road, and if you park here make sure you leave nothing of value.