Hanauma Bay, Hawai’i: A Snorkler’s Paradise

20 October 201431 August 2024

It was a gorgeous day in Hawaii and my best friend Melissa suggested that we visit Hanauma Bay State Park. Known for its sensational views (from the parking lot) and spectacular snorkeling, we dressed for the beach, jumped in the car and made our way to Hanauma Bay.

Hanauma Bay State Park is a natural reserve on the Hawaiian island of Oahu located in the Pacific Ocean. Since 1967, it has been a protected marine life conservation area and in 2002, the marine center was built to continue the efforts to support its health and protect the reefs and sea creatures. This beautiful state park and beach continues to rank #1 in the list of Top Beaches.

It was once estimated that over three million travelers visited Hanauma Bay each year and ecologists claim that the bay had suffered in the process. As a result, there have been limitations assessed on the number of daily visitors and they have placed restrictions on the handling of the sea life as well as the touching of the coral in the bay.

The tram was full, so we opted to walk down to the bay and agreed to take the tram on our return. We were happy for the early start knowing that the bay is such a popular stop for visitors to Oahu.

Since the 1980’s Hanauma Bay has been one of the most visited tourist attractions on the island. It is an excellent location to see the abundant species of fish for which Hawaii is known.

Prior to entering the state park, we were required to watch the 9-minute video to learn more about the marine life and to understand the park’s efforts to protect and preserve the fascinating sea life within the bay.

We picked up our snorkeling equipment, found an open space on the beach to drop off our beach chairs and towels before exploring the crystal clear waters.

There are approximately 400 known species of fish as well as green sea turtles at Hanauma Bay. It is the perfect location for experienced or inexperienced snorkelers of all ages due to its calm waters and sea life.From the parking lot of Hanauma Bay, there is an amazing view of the crater which was said to have been created over 30,000 years ago. The 2,000 square foot crescent beach is known for its beautiful white sand and its waters for its abundance of sea life.

Hawaii in itself is one of the most beautiful places in the world. It is because of the conservation of Hanauma Bay and many of the natural sites that future generations will be able to enjoy what is today, one of the most popular tourist attractions in Hawaii.

Where is your favorite snorkeling destination in the world? Have you had the opportunity to visit Hanauma Bay? I would be happy to hear about your experience on the island of Oahu if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below! Many thanks for checking out my blog post on Hanauma Bay! May you have many Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

Hanauma Bay Nature Reserve
7455 Kalanianaole Highway
Honolulu, Hawaii 96825
Telephone: 808 396 4229

Admission Fee: $7.50 to enter the park and parking is an additional charge of $1
Hours: Open Wednesday to Monday from 6AM to 7PM, closed Tuesday
Amenities (for an additional charge): Snorkel Equipment Rental, Locker Rental, Tram Ride, Snack Bar, Gift Shop, Transportation from Waikiki Hotels
Scenic View: Check out the gorgeous views from the parking lot. In addition, beautiful view of the ocean from the beach and there are some great underwater views of fish and sea turtles.
Length of the Tour: Varies, depending on the activities you select for the day
Tips for Your Visit: Arrive early to avoid the crowds. An early start will also allow for a more enjoyable snorkeling experience because once it becomes crowded, the visibility is limited. Large backpacks will not fit in the lockers and you can bring your own snacks and drinks.

Where to Stay:

Aqua Bamboo Waikiki
2425 Kuhio Avenue
Waikiki, Honolulu, Hawaii 96815
Telephone: 808 922 7777

Where to Eat:

Duke’s Waikiki
Outrigger Waikiki Beach Resort
2335 Kalakaua Avenue, #116
Waikiki, Honolulu, Hawaii 96815
Telephone: 808 922 2268

I love the flavors at Duke’s so we decided to share some Pupus (Appetizers) to include the Ahi Sashimi, Duke’s Nachos and the Panko-fried Calamari.

What to Eat:

Kalua Pig: Hawaii is famous for its Kalua Pig, similar to American pulled pork.
Poi: Made from taro root which is similar to a potato, the poi we sampled was “pounded” into a thick starch. This cooking technique results in a sticky pudding-like dessert which is purple in color.
Poke: Similar to Japanese sashimi, yet the fish is cut into chunky cubes and usually served over a bed of rice.

What to Read:

Hanauma Bay: A Marine Guide to Hawaii’s Most Popular Nature Preserve by John P. Hoover
Exploring Hanauma Bay: Revised and Expanded by Susan Scott

Photo Guide for Oahu:

Diamond Head Crater Hike: 360 degree views of Waikiki Beach and the Pacific Ocean
Hanauma Bay: underwater photos, photo of the bay from the parking lot
Kualoa Ranch: Jurassic Park scenery
Kualoa Regional Park and Mokoli’l Island: Palm trees and the triangle island
The Pineapple Plantations: Take the inland route from Waikiki to the North Shore and stop at Dole Plantation
Sunset Beach and Pipeline: the North Shore is the perfect location for surfing, so you will find LOTS of surfers here.
Turtle Bay: surfers and sunsets
Waikiki Wall and Beach: palm trees, surfers and highrise buildings, sunrises and sunsets

Disclosure: Please refer to our blog disclaimer tab for more information.

The Luau and Buffet at the Polynesian Cultural Center in Oahu

6 October 201431 August 2024

On a trip to Hawaii with my best friend and her family, we decided to visit the Polynesian Cultural center for the Luau. I pictured beautiful flower headdresses, coconut tops and grass skirts and was pleasantly surprised by the beauty of the venue, costumes and presentation of the food.

Originally known as the ‘aha aina, meaning “gathering meal”, the luau was initially a religious ceremony where Hawaiian delicacies were only permitted for the King and his elite. It wasn’t until 1819 when King Kamehamhea II dismissed the ancient ritual restrictions and allowed the commoners to celebrate a “new feast.” The luau celebration included reef fish, pork, bananas and moi, the fish of the Hawaiian kings. One of the most notable dishes prepared for the celebration was chicken wrapped in taro leaves and baked in coconut milk. Over the years, the locals incorporated the Kahlua pig and poi, a purple food made from taro root and coconuts which are served at luaus today.

An interest in Hawaii’s culture and cuisine was brought about by an increase in tourism. Local Hawaiians were happy to share their customs by offering tourists the opportunity to attend a luau to include a traditional hula dance and customary dishes. We were excited to see the ancient Hula Kahiko as well as the evening show, “Ha: Breath of Life.”

We decided to purchase the buffet to have the opportunity to sample all of the foods provided. With a variety of entrees, side dishes, fruits and desserts, we knew we would not be going home hungry. For the entrees, we could choose from Imu Pork, Island Chicken with Huli Huli Sauce (a marinade made of pineapple, soy sauce and ginger), Baked Chicken, Poke Bar (Tuna and Clams), Lomilomi Salmon (Tomato and Salmon salad), Teriyaki Braised Beef, Aioli Glazed White Fish, Kalua Pork and Vegetarian Chili.

Our sides included the choice of Hawaiian Fried Rice, Mixed Vegetables, Poi, Steamed Rice, Honey Roasted Sweet Potato Topped with Coconut and Taro Rolls with Butter. The Salad Bar offered Gourmet Blended Greens, Cucumber Salad, Papaya Seed Dressing, Ranch Dressing, Spicy Kimchee and Macaroni Salad while we could enjoy unlimited watermelon, grapes, papaya and apple bananas.

Of course we had to save room for the pineapple bars, but could also choose chocolate cake, haupia (coconut pudding) with toasted coconut, bread pudding and sugar-free cheesecake (upon request).

Our evening was spectacular with customs, culture and cuisine. The light show and hula dancing kept us on the edge of our seats followed by the enormous spread of local delicacies. It was an amazing experience where we enjoyed the show, ate until we couldn’t force another bite and enjoyed the gorgeous food displays and servers. That night, I definitely ate like a king.

Have you visited the Polynesian Cultural Center, attended a show and enjoyed the luau? I would love to hear about your experience if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below. Many thanks for reading my short post about visiting the Polynesian Cultural Center and wishing you many Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

Polynesian Cultural Center
55-370 Kamehameha
Hwy Laie, Hawaii 96762
Telephone: 800 367 7060

Admission Fee: General Admission: $64 per adult and $52 per child; Package Deals: $90 – $243 per person (depending on the package); $72 – $195 for children (depending on the package);
Hours: The Center: Open Monday to Saturday from 11:45AM to 9PM; Closed Sundays. Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day; Hukilau Marketplace: Open Monday – Saturday from 11AM to 9:30PM, Closed Sundays, Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day
Lunch and Snacks: BBQ Lunch Buffet is held at Hale Aloha; Fale Popo (Samoa Village); Carvers Workshop (New Zealand Village); Tahiti Snack Bar; Tonga Snacks (Tonga Village)
Amenities: Day experiences o include Island Villages, “Go Native” Activities, canoe rides, mission settlement, canoe pageant, Laie and Temple Visitors Center tour, Hawaiian Journey, Evening show, Polynesian Football Hall of Fame, dining options, special events and educational programs
Length of the Tour: 1 – 3 days depending on the package deal or general admission ticket purchased.
Tips for Your Visit: Review the schedule prior to your visit so you don’t miss any of the events, prepare for the weather (it can cool down at night), visit each of the islands, pick up a passport for the children, arrive when the center opens, interact with the performers, watch the canoe pageant, see the show and enjoy the traditional luau.

Where to Stay:

Lotus Honolulu at Diamond Head
2885 Kalakaua Avenue
Honolulu, Hawai’i 96815
Telephone: 808 922 1700

Where to Eat:

South Shore Grill
3114 Montsarrat Avenue
Honolulu, Hawai’i 96815
Telephone: 808 734 0229

Voted the best fish tacos on the island, I could not wait to order a couple and decided on the Grilled Cajun Ono Fish with Aioli….absolutely delicious! The chips and homemade salsa was a hit as well!

What to Eat:

Kalua Pig: Hawaii is famous for its Kalua Pig, similar to American pulled pork.
Poi: Made from taro root which is similar to a potato, the poi we sampled was “pounded” into a thick starch. This cooking technique results in a sticky pudding-like dessert which is purple in color.
Poke: Similar to Japanese sashimi, yet the fish is cut into chunky cubes and usually served over a bed of rice.

What to Read:

Waterman: The Life and Times of Duke Kahanamoku by David Davis
The Tattoo by Chris McKinney

Photo Guide for Oahu:

Diamond Head Crater Hike: 360 degree views of Waikiki Beach and the Pacific Ocean
Hanauma Bay: underwater photos, photo of the bay from the parking lot
Kualoa Ranch: Jurassic Park scenery
Kualoa Regional Park and Mokoli’l Island: Palm trees and the triangle island
The Pineapple Plantations: Take the inland route from Waikiki to the North Shore and stop at Dole Plantation
Sunset Beach and Pipeline: the North Shore is the perfect location for surfing, so you will find LOTS of surfers here.
Turtle Bay: surfers and sunsets
Waikiki Wall and Beach: palm trees, surfers and highrise buildings, sunrises and sunsets

Disclosure: Please refer to our blog disclaimer tab for more information.

Diamond Head, Hawai’i: What a View

22 September 201431 August 2024

After we arrived on the island of Oahu, unpacked and settled in to the hotel, we could not help but notice Diamond Head majestically looming over the island in the distance. We were ready to tackle the hike to its peak and to enjoy some much-needed time in the outdoors, so we loaded up the car, headed for the highway and made our way up the mountain.

Diamond Head is the remnants of a volcanic eruption that occurred over 150,000 years ago. The British gave it the name Diamond Head as they mistakenly thought that the calcite crystals nearby were diamonds. The Hawaiians know Diamond Head as Le’ahi, as to them, it resembles a tuna’s dorsal fin protruding from the ridgeline along its back. Lucky for us, the volcano has been dormant for many years. We began our ascent on this switchback trail, which is considered strenuous but only .8 miles in length.

The trail provided us with spectacular views of the Pacific. We made the climb with several switchbacks before reaching a long flight of stairs. The stairs brought us to a tunnel that lead us to the lower level of the Fire Control Station completed in 1911. More stairs, and we then entered the third level knowing we would soon reach the Observation station.

As we continued our ascent, we had the mountain to one side and a handrail on the other as we made our way to the first overlook. The trail was built in 1908 reaching a height of 760 feet and the views of Diamond Head and Waikiki were breathtaking.

On the other side of the station was the volcanic tuff cone which makes up Diamond Head. According to GeoLearning, a tuff (or ash) cone, is “formed by explosive (and therefore potentially hazardous) phreatomagmatic eruptions (the interaction of basaltic magma and water). Tuff cones thus tend to be found near the water’s edge or just offshore. Tuff is composed of extremely fine-grained cemented volcanic ash.”

It took us a total of about an hour to reach the summit, with some stops along the way to admire our amazing surroundings. Upon reaching the top, there was the Observation Station with a 360 degree view and a more stunning sight of Waikiki below. On a clear day you could see for miles. We took a few minutes to take in the moment and to catch our breath knowing it would probably only take about 30 minutes to return to the start of our journey.

As we finished the hike and reveled in our victorious climb with a view so spectacular and breathtaking, I realized that I would have been so disappointed if I had stayed back at the hotel or opted for a day at the beach. I promised myself that even if it took a bit of effort on my part, I would not want to miss out on an experience of a lifetime such as this.

Have you hiked Diamond Head in Hawaii or maybe you have another hike that made a long lasting impression on you? I would love to hear about your journey if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below! Many thanks for taking this journey with me to Diamond Head and wishing you many Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

Diamond Head State Monument
Honolulu, Hawai’i 96815
Telephone: 800 464 2924

Admission Fee: $5 per car or $1 per person for pedestrians, cash only
Hours: Open daily from 6AM to 6PM. The last entrance to hike the trail is 4:30PM.
Amenities: ADA Accessible, Snack Bar, Gift Shop, Picnic Pavilion and Tables, Restrooms and Water Fountains.
Scenic View: Spectacular views of Waikiki from Diamond Head!
Length of the Hike: 1.5 to 2 hours
Tips for Your Visit: Please note that the entrance fee is cash only. If hiking Diamond Head, wear appropriate shoes and bring plenty of water and snacks.

Where to Stay:

Lotus Honolulu at Diamond Head
2885 Kalakaua Avenue
Honolulu, Hawai’i 96815
Telephone: 808 922 1700

Where to Eat:

South Shore Grill
3114 Montsarrat Avenue
Honolulu, Hawai’i 96815
Telephone: 808 734 0229

What to Eat:

Kalua Pig: Hawaii is famous for its Kalua Pig, similar to American pulled pork.
Poi: Made from taro root which is similar to a potato, the poi we sampled was “pounded” into a thick starch. This cooking technique results in a sticky pudding-like dessert which is purple in color.
Poke: Similar to Japanese sashimi, yet the fish is cut into chunky cubes and usually served over a bed of rice.

What to Read:

Waterman: The Life and Times of Duke Kahanamoku by David Davis
The Tattoo by Chris McKinney

Photo Guide for Oahu:

Diamond Head Crater Hike: 360 degree views of Waikiki Beach and the Pacific Ocean
Hanauma Bay: underwater photos, photo of the bay from the parking lot
Kualoa Ranch: Jurassic Park scenery
Kualoa Regional Park and Mokoli’l Island: Palm trees and the triangle island
The Pineapple Plantations: Take the inland route from Waikiki to the North Shore and stop at Dole Plantation
Sunset Beach and Pipeline: the North Shore is the perfect location for surfing, so you will find LOTS of surfers here.
Turtle Bay: surfers and sunsets
Waikiki Wall and Beach: palm trees, surfers and highrise buildings, sunrises and sunsets

Disclosure: Please refer to our blog disclaimer tab for more information.

Pearl Harbor, A Sacred Memorial

15 September 201431 August 2024

There are certain events in history that leave such an impact on mankind, that if they occur during your lifetime, you will never forget where you were when you heard the news. The invasion of Pearl Harbor is one of the those events.

I had been anticipating our visit to Pearl Harbor from the moment I learned I was going to Hawaii. Realizing that this would be an emotional experience, I prepared myself mentally and packed an extra package of tissues as we arrived at the entrance to the Pearl Harbor National Monument.

Pearl Harbor is the most visited memorial on the Hawaiian island of Oahu. We learned that, while the tickets are free, the park recommends that visitors reserve their tickets at least two months in advance or arrive early as there is a limited number distributed in the morning.

We woke up early that day and arrived in plenty of time to pick up our reserved tickets and browse the gift shop. About 20 minutes later, we were boarding the shuttle bound for the USS Arizona.

While the tour provides a historical overview of the Japanese attack that occurred on December 7, 1941, Pearl Harbor is first and foremost a memorial…a remembrance of the 1,177 American soldiers that gave their lives defending the United States during World War II.

The monument was built in 1962 and is visited by approximately two million people annually.

There were some rules and suggestions that we learned before visiting the monument. For example, purses and camera bags are not permitted on the boat trip, so we rented a locker to store our personal items. In addition, we opted to pay the minimal fee for the audio tour which provides a thorough overview of the site and details regarding the attack on Pearl Harbor.

As the boat made its way towards the memorial, we could see the modern, rectangular-like structure which was designed by Hawaiian architect Alfred Preis. Straddling the hull of the sunken battleship, the USS Arizona Memorial accommodates approximately 200 visitors at one time.

Our tour included a boat trip out to the memorial as well as a documentary video that took approximately 25 minutes to view. The combined activities took approximately 75 minutes in total. Complimentary brochures, available in over 30 languages are provided at the Pearl Harbor’s Visitor Center.

From the memorial we could look down into the water to see the USS Arizona just below the waterline. It is sad to imagine that over 1,100 crew went down with the battleship and their bodies have never been recovered. For this reason, we were standing over hallowed ground, a burial site, deserving of our respect and honor.

Each day, over nine quarts of oil continues to surface from the tank below which held 1.5 million gallons. A recent study was conducted in the mid-1990s to determine the effects of the ongoing leakage. Scientists are concerned that an eruption could cause “catastrophic” damage, so the site is under continuous surveillance.

Visiting the Pearl Harbor memorial was one of the highlights of my visit to Hawaii, not only to better understand the events of the Japanese attack on the military base, but to respectfully honor the soldiers who gave their lives to protect the United States of America.

Have you had the opportunity to visit Pearl Harbor? I would love to hear your thoughts on your experience if you would kindly leave a message in the Comments Section below. Many thanks for reading about my visit to Pearl Harbor and wishing you many Happy Travels.

What to See and What to Do:

Pearl Harbor National Memorial
National Park Service
WWII Valor in the Pacific National Monument
1845 Wasp Blvd. Bldg. 176
Honolulu, HI 96818
Telephone: 808 422 3399

Admission Fee: USS Arizona Memorial is Free which includes a short documentary about the Invasion of Pearl Harbor and a boat ride over to the memorial. The Deluxe Tour: $12.50 adult and $12.50 for children ages 4 – 12; USS Bowfin Submarine Park: $15 adult and $7 for children ages 4 – 12; Pacific Aviation Museum Pearl Harbor: $25 adult and $12 for children ages 4 – 12; USS Battleship Missouri: $29 adult and $13 for children ages 4 – 12. Reservations are available in 15 minute increments by contacting recreation.gov and are highly recommended. In addition there are 1300 tickets available each day on a first come, first served basis.
Hours: Open daily from 7:30AM to 3PM. The last shuttle returns back to the Visitor’s Center at 5PM. The Pearl Harbor Historic Sites are closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year’s Day.
Amenities: Baggage storage area ($5), Gift Shop and Restrooms
Length of Visit: 6 hours to explore all four historical sites.
Tips for Your Visit: Reservations are highly recommended. Please note that the memorial is a sacred location and visitors are asked to be respectful of the site.

Where to Stay:

Hampton Inn & Suites, Oahu/Kapolei
91-5431 Kapolei Parkway #900
Kapolei, HI 96707
Telephone: 808 628 4900

Where to Eat:

Restaurant 604
57 Arizona Memorial Drive, #108
Honolulu, HI 96818
Telephone: 808 888 7616

I was hoping to try some of the local Hawaiian cuisine but I was distracted by the PBLTA sandwich with Pork Belly topped with lettuce, tomato and avocado and it was outstanding.

What to Eat:

Kalua Pig: Hawaii is famous for its Kalua Pig, similar to American pulled pork.
Poi: Made from taro root which is similar to a potato, the poi we sampled was “pounded” into a thick starch. This cooking technique results in a sticky pudding-like dessert which is purple in color.
Poke: Similar to Japanese sashimi, yet the fish is cut into chunky cubes and usually served over a bed of rice.

What to Read:

Day of Infamy by Walter Lord
At Dawn We Slept: The Untold Story of Pearl Harbor by Gordan W. Prange
From Infamy to Greatness by Craig Nelson
Pearl Harbor Ghosts: The Legacy of December 7, 1941 by Thurston Clarke

Photo Guide for Oahu:

Diamond Head Crater Hike: 360 degree views of Waikiki Beach and the Pacific Ocean
Hanauma Bay: underwater photos, photo of the bay from the parking lot
Kualoa Ranch: Jurassic Park scenery
Kualoa Regional Park and Mokoli’l Island: Palm trees and the triangle island
The Pineapple Plantations: Take the inland route from Waikiki to the North Shore and stop at Dole Plantation
Sunset Beach and Pipeline: the North Shore is the perfect location for surfing, so you will find LOTS of surfers here.
Turtle Bay: surfers and sunsets
Waikiki Wall and Beach: palm trees, surfers and highrise buildings, sunrises and sunsets

Disclosure: Please refer to our blog disclaimer tab for more information.

Fond Memories from Hawaii, 2001

8 September 201431 August 2024

I had so many amazing experiences in Hawaii visiting the islands of The Big Island, Oahu and Kauai. While there a just a couple of blog posts from my trip back in 2001, here are some random photos of Hawaii that always make me smile.

Taking Off for Hawaii: