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Tag Archive | "sunset"

Taking a Historical Sunset Cruise on the Kona Coast with Body Glove Hawaii

Monday, January 30, 2012

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Body Glove Hawaii offers a very nice historical sunset dinner cruise that we had a chance to enjoy on our recent visit to Hawaii’s Big Island. The dinner, entertainment and sunset was very good, but what I especially enjoyed was learning the history of the Kona coast and, oh boy, there’s a lot of it! Kona Coast The Body Glove vessel leaves Kailua Kona harbor then heads south, skimming the coastline while the golden sun rays make the coast glow. As we made our way down to historic Kealakekua Bay , the historian, Boyd, highlighted heiaus, village remains, and stories of struggles and misunderstandings of Captain Cook’s visits to Hawaii Island. Captain Cook Monument in Kealakekua Bay The more I learn of Hawaii’s history, the more I want to learn, which made this sunset sail right up my ally. You don’t need to be a Hawaii nerd like me to enjoy it though. I felt like Boyd shared the history in a way that both new and veteran Hawaii visitors appreciated. The boat followed the coast as far as Kealakekua Bay where we slowed down inside the bay for smoother water as passengers enjoyed the dinner buffet that included Hawaii favorites like lomi lomi salmon, barbeque beef skewers and lau lau. While we were in Kealakekua Bay, dolphins came to the boat as if to say hello. They put on a little leaping and spinning show before heading further down shore. Kona Sunset On our way back to Kailua-Kona we listened to songs played by a very talented slack key guitar player and singer. That, of course, added to the romantic setting sun followed by the waning rays of the day. By the time we arrived back in Kailua-Kona, the sky was all dark which made the lights of town reflect on the water. Kailua-Kona lights shimmering on the bay What to know when you go: - The cost of this tour is $105.02 for adults and $72. 87 for youth ages 6 to 17. - This historical tour is offered three nights per week, at the moment – Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays. - The staff was very helpful. If they offer to carry your drink or food, it’s a good idea to let them help you. - One drink coupon is included in the cost of the tour. A cash bar was available with soft drinks, beer, wine and cocktails. - Bring cash for tipping (at the end) and for the cash bar. - Try to get to the buffet line soon after it opens. Andy and I waited for the rush to die down. Our timing was bad as the boat pulled out of the smooth water of the bay in into the rougher waters. - You might want to bring a jacket or sweater. After sunset, the wind did have a bit of a chill to it. - If you have medium to long hair, you might want to bring something to hold your hair back. I have medium length hair and found it difficult to eat with the coastal wind swirling my hair. - If you are going to Hawaii during whale season (January – March), there’s a good chance you’ll see humpback whales,. So keep your eyes peeled. - See all our photos from this tour. Mahalo to Body Glove Hawaii for sponsoring our tour.

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Aloha Friday Photo: Wonderful Waikiki Sunset Sky Edition

Friday, January 13, 2012

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Aloha Friday Photo: Wonderful Waikiki Sunset Sky Edition

What a beautiful sunset photo captured by Kathy Reeves after Friday night fireworks on Waikiki Beach . The colors of this sunset sky are simply amazing. I love scanning the transition of colors from purple and pink to peach Mahalo to Kathy for sharing her photo with us for Aloha Friday! © 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 .

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Aloha Friday Photo: Wonderful Waikiki Sunset Sky Edition

Friday, January 13, 2012

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Aloha Friday Photo: Wonderful Waikiki Sunset Sky Edition

What a beautiful sunset photo captured by Kathy Reeves after Friday night fireworks on Waikiki Beach . The colors of this sunset sky are simply amazing. I love scanning the transition of colors from purple and pink to peach Mahalo to Kathy for sharing her photo with us for Aloha Friday! © 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 .

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4 Favorite Places for a Sunset Drink in Waikiki

Tuesday, November 8, 2011

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4 Favorite Places for a Sunset Drink in Waikiki

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 .

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Triple Crown of Surfing 2011 – Northshore Oahu

Tuesday, October 18, 2011

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Triple Crown of Surfing 2011 – Northshore Oahu

The Triple Crown of Surfing is right around the corner and it is time to book your vacation package now. This series of surfing events take place on the famed Northshore of Oahu. Accommodations on this side of the island are limited, therefore we suggest you book now. Events take place on the four best days of surf during each allocated period. Extended periods allow for days of small surf or poor conditions. ◦Reef Hawaiian Pro, Haleiwa — Nov 12 – 23, 2011 ◦World Cup of Surfing, Sunset Beach — Nov 24 – Dec 6, 2011 ◦Billabong Pipe Masters, Banzai Pipeline — Dec 8 – 20, 2011 Visit TripleCrownOfSurfing.com for daily event status. Travelwizard.com is offering a vacation package with a 3 night accommodations at the Turtle Bay Resort in an Oceanfront room and roundtip air from LAX on United Airlines for $753per person. Kids 17 & younger stay FREE. This Northshore vacation package is valid for travel 11/28/11-12/12/11. Please call for longer stays, air from other departure points or to add a rental car. Mention promo code:PLWS 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

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Not Your Usual Hawaii Sunset Photo Tip

Thursday, September 15, 2011

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Not Your Usual Hawaii Sunset Photo Tip

As visitors to Hawaii, we tend to be so enamored with watching the sun sink into the ocean that we don’t notice what else is happening. Instead of facing the sun the entire time, and practically blinding yourself in the process, turn around to see what the sun is lighting . Oh the vibrant, golden glow you will find! Sunset is one of the best times to capture west-facing photos of landscapes. In an interview with my uber talented portrait photographer friend, Natalie Norton , she explains that the natural light is softer at sunset.  Natalie says, “The sun also has warmer tones at those times as well. Nothing will help your images say “paradise” like a naturel filter of warm yellows and soft pinks .” Let’s take a look at some examples of some photos we’ve shot at sunset. First, here’s a photo of Kapalua Beach that I took with my iPhone from Merriman’s Kapalua. While everyone else was focused on the sun, I looked around to see the golden glow of the beach. On a visit to Oahu, Andy and I had a nice little Waikiki Beach picnic at sunset . We glanced back from the sun to see Diamond Head and Waikiki Beach lit up with a warm radiance as shown in the next photo. Sunset is not only a good time to capture the illuminated west-facing landscape shot, it’s also a super opportunity to shoot a flattering photo of your travel companions. Natalie explains that, “[The sun is] coming down at an angle so you won’t get the dark shadows under your eyes and nose typical of shooting mid-day.” No unflattering shadows? Um, yes please! After capturing that shot with the sun in the background, you and your travel pals should turn to get that flattering shot with a sun-kissed glow. For  more Hawaii vacation photography tips, see: Andy’s Photography Tips: The Perfect Hawaii Sunset Picture Advice For Taking Incredible Vacation Photos From A Hawaii Photographer Advice On Choosing A Wedding And Family Portrait Photographer in Hawaii Vacation Photo Advice from Oahu Photographer Joe Philipson © 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 .

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Hawaii Vacation News & Deals: June 16, 2011

Thursday, June 16, 2011

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Hawaii Vacation News & Deals: June 16, 2011

As you’ll see from this fresh pile of deals, this autumn is shaping up to be a fantastic time to go to Hawaii . - The newly renovated Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort has a Fall sale for $239 per night between September 1 and December 23. Check the deal details here . - Waikoloa Beach Marriott Resort has a super deal for travel dates between August 16 and November 30, 2011. This deal is $159 per night. You must book by June 30. For more details, click here . - I definitely wanted to highlight the Kauai Hyatt and Big Island Marriott deals, but TravelZoo has several others to check out this week, too. See them here . - If you can fly from any of the departure cities in Alaska and the Pacific Coast serviced by Alaska Airlines, check out their sale for travel between August 22 and October 31, 2011. Fares are as low as $338 roundtrip (Bellingham, WA to Honolulu, HI). Sale ends June 21, 2011. - You can win a trip for two to Hawaii from LAX and be featured on a billboard. See this link for more info on the contest and entry requirements. - Aston Hotels & Resorts is partnering with Island Grocery Service for a Summer Savings Promotion. When you’re staying at one of the Aston condominium resorts on Oahu, Maui, Kauai and the Big Island, you can $20 or $25 on your pre-ordered and delivered groceries. This promotion is valid through September 5, 2011. Here’s how it works: Go to www.IslandGroceryService.com and order your grocery items. At the “checkout” enter the promotional code, as follows: Oahu: Aston Waikiki Beach Tower, Aston Waikiki Sunset, Aston at the Waikiki Banyan, Aston Pacific Monarch and Aston at the Executive Centre Hotel. ($25 Savings Coupon, Promotional Code: AHRO25). Maui: Aston at the Maui Banyan, Aston Maui Hill, Aston Maui Lu, Aston Maui Kaanapali Villas,  The Whaler on Kaanapali Beach, Aston Mahana at Kaanapali, Aston at Papakea Resort, Aston Paki Maui. ($20 Savings Coupon, Promotional Code: AHRM20). Kauai: Aston Aloha Beach Hotel, Aston Islander on the Beach, Aston at Poipu Kai. ($20 Savings Coupon, Promotional Code: AHRK20). Big Island: Aston Waikoloa Colony Villas, Aston Shores at Waikoloa, Aston Kona by the Sea. ($20 Savings Coupon, Promotional Code: AHRBI20). Choose a delivery time and your groceries are delivered for you to arrive to a fully stocked kitchen. © 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 .

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Aloha Friday Photo: Haleakala Sunset Edition

Friday, June 10, 2011

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Aloha Friday Photo: Haleakala Sunset Edition

Ah, isn’t it a nice way to say a parting aloha to the week with a sunset photo? This sunset photo is from the summit of Maui’s Haleakala. The sun appears to be sinking in to a fluffy bed of clouds for a good night’s rest. Watching sunrise or sunset on Haleakala is a spectacular event to include in your Maui vacation plans. Many have described watching sunrise or sunset as magical and spiritual . I’ll add another descriptor — unforgettable! Mahalo to Greg Slawson of GC Creative Studio in Cleveland, Ohio for sharing his photo! We’re on facebook! Please click here to join us. © 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 .

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The Allure of Lanai

Tuesday, May 10, 2011

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The Allure of Lanai

“When can I get back to Lanai?” That was the thought I caught myself thinking very early into our recent visit to Lanai. I don’t know when we’ll be able to return, but I can’t wait. What is it about Lanai that’s so attractive? I’ve been reflecting on that very question. I’ll attempt to explain Lanai’s allure. Refreshingly Simple Visiting Lanai is like going back in time.  From the original tin-roofed plantation style homes to the complete absence of any sort of giant chains like Costco, Walmart and Starbucks – Lanai has retained its original roots and simpler life. With a population of under 3,000 residents, everyone practically knows everyone else. Spend some time walking around the Dole Square and you’ll find that it’s easy to begin feeling like you’re a part of the community.  Stop into any shop or restaurant in Lanai City and soon you’ll be talking story with the local residents. I’ve heard Lanai dubbed as the Mayberry of the Pacific. It’s certainly friendly enough to be a Mayberry. With everyone knowing their neighbor and nowhere to run and hide, crime is practically non-existent. So a Barney Fife would fit in nicely on Lanai. Sunset by Kalokahi O Ka Malamalama Church in Koele Off-the-Beaten Path Adventures On land, hop in a four-wheel drive to navigate to secluded beaches and surreal landscapes . Hike for miles without seeing another person. Go horseback riding through a meandering forest trail to views of Molokai and Maui. Have a blast at Lanai Pines Sporting Clays . The dirt road leading past Keahiakawelo (Garden of the Gods) offers amazing views. Fit for a King King Kamehameha could pick and choose anywhere he wanted to go in Hawaii. Where did he choose as his summer retreat? That would be Kaunolu Village on Lanai’s southern coast. The king chose well with a beach nestled between tall cliffs. Kaunolu was his favorite fishing spot. Today, you can snorkel in the pristine waters near the village. For such a small island, Lanai offers two luxurious Four Seasons Resorts . These stunningly beautiful resorts make you feel like royalty when you’re there. For example, when you’re by the pool or at Hulopoe Beach, staff offer you chilled towels, fresh pineapple slices and, get this, chilled Evian spritzes. I can almost picture King Kamehameha having a oceanside massage then enjoying a private dinner in a romantic oceanside hale. Private dining at an oceanside hale Lanai Rocks! Each of the Hawaiian Islands have their own unique features. In my mind, Lanai’s top features are in the island’s rocks – Puupehe (Sweetheart Rock) and Keahaikawelo (Garden of the Gods) . Both of these sights peak your curiosity making you wonder how were they created. Puupehe (Sweetheart Rock) In Closing There’s something quite infectious about Lanai and I don’t want the cure. So, I’ll circle back to my original question: “When can I get back to Lanai?” I don’t know when, but I hope it’s soon! What about you? Have you been captured by the allure of Lanai? What attracts you to the Pineapple Isle? —- This post was sponsored in part by: © 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 .

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Video visit to Maui’s Kamaole Beach

Thursday, February 3, 2011

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Video visit to Maui’s Kamaole Beach

With a good bit of North America covered in snow and ice, we could all use some defrosting, right? Here’s a two-minute video of Maui awesomeness that’ll warm you up in a hurry. Hawaii Sunset Video HD: Maui, Kihei, Kamaʻole Beach from Aclara Promotions on Vimeo . (Email subscribers: if this video doesn’t display in your email, click here to access it.) The talented videographer is Christopher Ruffell. Thanks to my friend, Ross Dunn, for bring this video to my attention. © 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 .

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