Colorful lantana growing along Kauai's Kalalau Trail * Disney’s Aulani Resort is offering a Spring special of 6th night free and complimentary continental breakfast each day during your stay. See all the details here . * Aqua’s Kauai Beach Resort is offering rates as low as $159 including daily breakfast buffet, but you must book before January 31 and complete your stay by December 31, 2012. * Speaking of Kauai, Hawaiian Airlines has put Kauai fares on sale for travel between now and March 14 and again from April 24 through June 8, 2012. Fares from the Bay area start from $363. For this sale, you must book by January 31. * JetBlue is teaming up with Hawaiian Airlines to make connections easy. Per JetBlue’s website , “Transfer from JetBlue to Hawaiian’s service at Los Angeles (LAX). Beginning June 4th, transfer to Hawaiian’s new non-stop service to Honolulu at New York (JFK).” Read more about this partnership on Smarter Travel . * Do you want to make this Valentine’s Day extra special with your spouse? Outrigger Resorts is offering free vow renewals across resorts in all the major islands. Participating resorts are Kapalua Villas Maui, Keauhou Beach Resorts on Hawaii’s Big Island, Outrigger Kiahuna Plantation on Kauai and Outrigger Reef on the Beach in Oahu. Andy and I renewed our vows at Outrigger Reef on the Beach in 2009 and it was a lovely ceremony. * If you’ll be staying in Waikiki, check out the special farm to table prix fixe menus at and Sansei Seafood Restaurant on Wednesdays and d.k. Steak House on Thursdays. They’re great values for four-course dinners under $50. * What’s the average room rate in the state of Hawaii? According to the latest report , the rate is $199.63 which is up 7% over the same time period last year. Occupancy is also up by 2.7% overall. Hawaii’s tourism recovery appears to be well on the mend. * Have you seen the movie The Decendants ? This award-nominated movie was partly filmed in Kauai and is expected to boost tourism per TheGardenIsland.com . * Will Kauai’s historic Coco Palms Resort ever be revived ? Here’s the most recent news about Coco Palms that doesn’t sound very encouraging. * The USPS offers five new Hawaii themed postcard stamp with Aloha shirt designs . © Go Visit Hawaii – Republication of this entire post is prohibited without prior permission. Using extracts of less than 100 words are permitted with full attribution and link back to GoVisitHawaii.com .
Continue reading...11. January 2012
* Outrigger Resorts is offering deals up to 65% off with the promotional code DREAM. Outrigger hotels and condos are located on all the major islands. * Aston Hotels and Resorts is offering a third night free deal. You can double the deal to pay for four nights and get two nights free. Choose from any of the hotel or condo properties listed on this page from all the major islands.
Continue reading...3. January 2012
When it comes to ocean fun in the Kailua-Kona or Kealakakua areas, Kona Boys has you covered. They’re truly ocean sport experts with a passion for caring for the environment. On our recent trip to the Big Island, we got to experience ocean kayaking, snorkeling, and stand up paddle boarding with the Kona Boys from their station at Courtyard King Kamehameha Kona Beach Hotel in Kailua-Kona. Kona Boy, Eric, got us gliding out on the water of Kailua Bay in a double kayak. We marveled at the gorgeous shades of blue water and coral gardens below. When we could pull our eyes away from the water, Eric shared history about Kailua-Kona and the historic landmarks we could see from the bay. Though Kailua-Kona is often bustling with tourist activity, seeing the town from Kailua Bay was very peaceful. Eric recommends early morning kayaking in Kailua Bay for smooth water and a great chance of seeing dolphins. After enjoying a relaxed lunch on the sandy beach at the Courtyard King Kamehameha Kona Beach Hotel, we picked up some snorkel gear from the Kona Boys. We were both extremely impressed with the quality of snorkeling here. We barely had to swim 20 feet from the shore before seeing lots of tropical fish. The snorkeling was so good that Andy was able to capture some of the best ocean snorkeling photos we’ve captured over our many snorkeling adventures. To complete our ocean adventures with Kona Boys, I gave stand up paddle boarding another try. The protected cove within a bay at the Courtyard King Kamehameha Kona Beach Hotel provided really smooth water for learning stand up paddle boarding. It was so smooth, I didn’t even fall off. That’s me on a stand up paddle board in the photo on the right. Whether you’re looking to rent snorkel gear, paddle boards, beach chairs and/or kayaks in the Kona area, the Kona Boys can definitely help you out. They also offer informative private kayak and outrigger tours. See this photo of their services for pricing information. Also check out their website . See all our photos from our ocean play with the Kona Boys. Mahalo to the Kona Boys for sponsoring the ocean rentals for our day of fun. © Go Visit Hawaii – Republication of this entire post is prohibited without prior permission. Using extracts of less than 100 words are permitted with full attribution and link back to GoVisitHawaii.com .
Continue reading...16. December 2011
Christmas in Maui will be filled with lots of aloha this year – with hula, Hawaiian music and delicious dining. Even Santa is scheduled to spend a good bit of time on Maui after he arrives by outrigger canoe. Here’s what’s on slate for 2011: MAUI CHRISTMAS EVE SERVICES, SANTA ARRIVAL & DINING SANTA ARRIVES AT MALUAKA BEACH, MAKENA Saturday, December 24, 2011 Every year Santa comes to Makena, right before his biggest night of year. Join us on Maluaka Beach to welcome Santa to Makena. 10 a.m. Free Phone: (808) 874-1111 or visit www.makenaresortmaui.com SANTA ARRIVES AT THE FAIRMONT KEA LANI MAUI Saturday, December 24, 2011 Santa, Mrs. Claus and their elves arrive Polo Beach via outrigger canoe to spread holiday cheer in South Maui. Bring your cameras for photos with Santa. 12 p.m. Free and open to Maui residents and hotel guests. Phone: (808) 875-2290, or email concierge.kealani@fairmont.com SANTA’S WORKSHOP AT HYATT REGENCY MAUI Saturday, December 24, 2011 Join Santa and his Elves for a special holiday event. Participate in holiday arts and crafts, games, prize giveaways and take pictures with Santa, while feasting on holiday cookies and punch. Personal cameras are welcome. 1 – 3 p.m. at Hyatt Regency Maui’s Umalu tent. Reservations not required. Phone: (808) 661-1234 SANTA WATCH AT HYATT REGENCY MAUI Saturday, December 24, 2011 The famed Tour of the Stars program will be featuring a “Santa Watch.” Astronomers will search the skies for jolly old Saint Nick. Shows at 8 p.m., 9 p.m. and 10 p.m. Phone: (808) 661-1234 CHRISTMAS EVE BUFFET AT MAKENA BEACH & GOLF RESORT Saturday, December 24, 2011 Everyone knows that the Holidays mean lots of great food. The Christmas Evening Buffet starts with a spread that features traditional holiday favorites like sage and thyme basted roasted whole tom turkey served with traditional giblet gravy, cranberry relish and cornbread stuffing or try the spit roasted rosemary pommery leg of lamb. Enjoy breathtaking sunsets while feasting on this hearty holiday meal. 5:30 – 9 p.m. in Molokini Bar & Grille $60.00 per person, $45.00 per child (age 9-12), $30.00 per child (age 5-8) Rates exclusive of tax and gratuity For reservations or for more information call (808) 875-5888, email reservations@makenaresortmaui.com , or visit www.makenaresortmaui.com CHRISTMAS EVE DINNER BUFFET AT SHERATON MAUI RESORT & SPA Saturday, December 24, 2011 Share a view of Black Rock, reconnect with family and friends, and sink your teeth into an assortment of delicious options including bamboo shoot salad, Black Rock oysters and salt crusted baron of beef. 4 – 9 p.m. $63.00 per adult, $31.00 per child (age 6-12) Phone: (808) 921-4600 CHRISTMAS EVE AT THE RITZ-CARLTON, KAPALUA Saturday, December 24, 2011 A picture is worth a thousand words – so children of all ages are invited to stop by the Lobby to be photographed with Santa Claus! Guests will also enjoy festive entertainment including Hawaiian music, traditional hula dancing and a melodic trio. Photos from 4 – 8 p.m. Images available for purchase on-site or online. Entertainment from 4 – 11 p.m. Phone: (808) 669-6200 CHRISTMAS EVE DINNERS AT THE RITZ-CARLTON, KAPALUA Saturday, December 24, 2011 Savor the season with culinary delights at The Banyan Tree offering an a la carte menu, and The Terrace offering a pre-fixed menu of Mauka Makai (Surf & Turf). 5:30 – 9:30 p.m., with ambient entertainment $60.00 per person. Keiki menu free for children12 years and younger at the Terrace Restaurant, with each paying adult. Reservations recommended Phone: (808) 669-6200 CHRISTMAS EVE CHURCH SERVICES – Hope Chapel in Kihei – three separate services with 8pm candlelight service. See this link for details. – Calvary Chapel South Maui in Kihei – Christmas Eve service at 7pm. See this link for details. – Contact your concierge for more information on church services near your resort.
Continue reading...14. December 2011
* Hawaiian Airlines has some nice sale fares again – like $298 roundtrip from San Jose to Maui. You need to book by December 19 for travel between January 5 – March 14, 2012. * SpeediShuttle is now the exclusive on-demand shuttle service at Honolulu International Airport. Arriving passengers can book door-to-door service to any destination point between Kahala and Ko Olina on Oahu at designated kiosks strategically located throughout the terminals or through greeters dressed in aloha attire who can issue boarding passes using tablet PCs. For more information, or for booking online visit SpeediShuttle.com . * Big Island visitors can now take advantage of 10 of the island’s best-known cultural, historical, and science centers at a discount.
Continue reading...6. December 2011
Waikiki will be all aglow with holiday festivities this year. I’ve compiled this list of special Christmas Eve and Christmas Day brunches, dinners and buffets. Along with all the delicious dining, you’ll also find a great list of Christmas displays and entertainment across Waikiki, Honolulu and Oahu. Before, we dive into our list of things to do and where to go, I want to share a few points of advice first. I recommend you make reservations, order tickets, etc. as soon as possible to secure the place and time you like. Unless otherwise stated, you can assume that taxes and gratuities are not included in the listed prices. Most Waikiki Beach hotel-based restaurants will be open on Christmas day. Check directly with the concierge of your accommodations for their special Christmas meals and events. As Christmas approaches, most likely, I’ll be adding more events, so do check back. Learn how to say Mele Kalikimaka, Hawaii’s way to say Merry Christmas . Christmas Eve Dining on Saturday, December 24 Breakfast/Brunch: * Pacific Beach Hotel’s aquarium-style restaurant Oceanarium will offer a a Christmas Eve Brunch Buffet from 9am to 3pm. The costs are $44.95 per adult and $19.95 per child ages 5 to 12 years old. Use this link to see the brunch buffet menu . For reservations, call (808) 921-6111. Dinner: * Hau Tree Lanai at the New Otani Kaimana Beach Hotel offers an elegant prix-fixe, five-course Christmas Eve dinner ( menu ) for $75 per person or you can order from their Christmas a la carte menu. Hau Tree Lanai offers a romantic, beach front setting that’s about a 15 minute walk from the heart of Waikiki. For reservations, call (808)921-7066. * Hilton Hawaiian Village presents their Starlight Luau
Continue reading...11. November 2011
Enjoy spectacular Oahu hotel deals when you book your Hawaii vacation with Travewizard.com by December 31, 2011. Earn up to 2,000 MileagePlus® bonus miles. Splash in the turquoise waters of Oahu, surf a big wave, snorkel with sea turtles, hike a volcano, and much more. Participating Oahu Hotels: Aston Waikiki Beach Hotel, Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa, Hilton Hawaiian Village, Holiday Inn Waikiki Beachcomber Resort, Outrigger Reef on the Beach, Outrigger Waikiki on the Beach, Sheraton Princess Kaiulani, Sheraton Waikiki, Turtle Bay Hotel and Waikiki Beach Marriott. Promo Code:MLT – UV Call 1.800.330.8820 or click here to have a Hawaii Travel Specialist contact you. TravelWizard.com: Specialists in the Art of Travel: Call 1-800-330-8820
Continue reading...11. November 2011
Enjoy spectacular Oahu hotel deals when you book your Hawaii vacation with Travewizard.com by December 31, 2011. Earn up to 2,000 MileagePlus® bonus miles. Splash in the turquoise waters of Oahu, surf a big wave, snorkel with sea turtles, hike a volcano, and much more. Participating Oahu Hotels: Aston Waikiki Beach Hotel, Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa, Hilton Hawaiian Village, Holiday Inn Waikiki Beachcomber Resort, Outrigger Reef on the Beach, Outrigger Waikiki on the Beach, Sheraton Princess Kaiulani, Sheraton Waikiki, Turtle Bay Hotel and Waikiki Beach Marriott. Promo Code:MLT – UV Call 1.800.330.8820 or click here to have a Hawaii Travel Specialist contact you. TravelWizard.com: Specialists in the Art of Travel: Call 1-800-330-8820
Continue reading...8. November 2011
Golden Waikiki Sunset from House Without A Key Watching sunset with a refreshing tropical drink in hand is a relaxing way to end a day in Waikiki Beach. After many trips to Waikiki, we definitely have some favorite spots that we’d like to share with you. Whether you like to sip on a tropical cocktail or mocktail , we recommend these top Waikiki spots: Our favorite place is Halekulani’s House Without A Key . We love their live Hawaiian music combined with exceptionally graceful hula dancers The ocean front setting and sunset views are outstanding. A cocktail will set you back about $12 or $13 each, if I remember correctly, but the free entertainment and homemade potato chips definitely make the cost worth it . As long as your budget allows, I would say that having sunset drinks at House Without A Key is a must do on your Waikiki vacation. Entertainment begins at 5:30 so aim to arrive then or a little bit earlier to grab an outdoor seat near the band. The atmosphere is upscale here. Silhouette of Hawaiian Musicians at House Without A Key The Ocean House Restaurant at Outrigger Reef on the Beach offers a quiet ocean front spot for a relaxed, upscale atmosphere. There’s no entertainment so it’s easier to enjoy conversation along with the ocean and Diamond Head views. If you wanted to move from drinks into dinner or pupus (appetizers), the food is fairly good here too. Arrive around 5pm or shortly after for the oceanfront tables. Tropical Drinks from The Ocean House Though not technically on the beach, Tiki’s at Aston Waikiki Beach Hotel offers great ocean and sunset views from its elevated level. There’s also palm trees in the view that can add a bit more interest to your sunset photos. Tiki’s also provides live music adding to this lively and casual atmosphere. One of Andy's Award-Winning Sunset Photos Taken from Tiki's Duke’s Waikiki at the Outrigger Waikiki on the Beach offers entertainment and wonderful ocean front view. The atmosphere is casual and a little more lively compared to House Without A Key. So these are my four favorite places so far . How about you? Where’s the top place you like to go for a sunset drink in Waikiki? © Go Visit Hawaii – Republication of this entire post is prohibited without prior permission. Using extracts of less than 100 words are permitted with full attribution and link back to GoVisitHawaii.com .
Continue reading...8. November 2011
Golden Waikiki Sunset from House Without A Key Watching sunset with a refreshing tropical drink in hand is a relaxing way to end a day in Waikiki Beach. After many trips to Waikiki, we definitely have some favorite spots that we’d like to share with you. Whether you like to sip on a tropical cocktail or mocktail , we recommend these top Waikiki spots: Our favorite place is Halekulani’s House Without A Key . We love their live Hawaiian music combined with exceptionally graceful hula dancers The ocean front setting and sunset views are outstanding. A cocktail will set you back about $12 or $13 each, if I remember correctly, but the free entertainment and homemade potato chips definitely make the cost worth it . As long as your budget allows, I would say that having sunset drinks at House Without A Key is a must do on your Waikiki vacation. Entertainment begins at 5:30 so aim to arrive then or a little bit earlier to grab an outdoor seat near the band. The atmosphere is upscale here. Silhouette of Hawaiian Musicians at House Without A Key The Ocean House Restaurant at Outrigger Reef on the Beach offers a quiet ocean front spot for a relaxed, upscale atmosphere. There’s no entertainment so it’s easier to enjoy conversation along with the ocean and Diamond Head views. If you wanted to move from drinks into dinner or pupus (appetizers), the food is fairly good here too. Arrive around 5pm or shortly after for the oceanfront tables. Tropical Drinks from The Ocean House Though not technically on the beach, Tiki’s at Aston Waikiki Beach Hotel offers great ocean and sunset views from its elevated level. There’s also palm trees in the view that can add a bit more interest to your sunset photos. Tiki’s also provides live music adding to this lively and casual atmosphere. One of Andy's Award-Winning Sunset Photos Taken from Tiki's Duke’s Waikiki at the Outrigger Waikiki on the Beach offers entertainment and wonderful ocean front view. The atmosphere is casual and a little more lively compared to House Without A Key. So these are my four favorite places so far . How about you? Where’s the top place you like to go for a sunset drink in Waikiki? © Go Visit Hawaii – Republication of this entire post is prohibited without prior permission. Using extracts of less than 100 words are permitted with full attribution and link back to GoVisitHawaii.com .
Continue reading...
25. January 2012
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