Hawaiian Islands Insider Tips

The Hawaiian Islands | Satisfy your sweet tooth to a hot Malasada, otherwise known as a Portuguese doughnut. Although Leonard's Bakery in Kapahulu is popular on Oahu, simply ask any local to discover their favorite local bakery where these fresh and tasty treats can be found. ~ Gary Hunn, Destination Marketing Manager

The Hawaiian Islands | Each November through April, thousands of North Pacific humpback whales drop into Hawaii's warm, shallow ocean waters to mate, calve and nurse their young. January through March are Hawaii's peak months for spotting them as they breach and spout offshore. The Auau Channel and its neighbor channels separating Maui, Lanai, Molokai and Kahoolawe provide one of the largest areas of shallow ocean in the Islands - a big draw for parent humpbacks calving and nursing their young. The Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary, managed by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, encompasses shoreline to 500-foot depth locations off Kauai's north shore, the north and south shores of Oahu, the Maui Nui shallows, the north Kona and Kohala coasts of Hawaii Island and the submerged Molokai volcano known as Penguin Bank. The best spots are coastlines facing channels that are part of the sanctuary. A few of our favorite Hawaii whale-watching spots include: Makapuu Point and Halona Blowhole Lookout on Oahu; the West Maui shoreline from Maalaea to Kaanapali on Maui; the beaches of the North Kona and South Kohala coasts on Hawaii Island; and Kilauea Point National Wildlife Refuge on Kauai. Enjoy the season!

The Hawaiian Islands | With wellness vacations trending, a number of resorts on Oahu have added a menu of options for travelers seeking rest, rejuvenation and renewal. Four Seasons Resort Oahu at Ko Olina has added a mixed-reality therapeutic pod at Naupaka Spa and Wellness Center, while in the vessel, guests can see, hear, smell, feel and touch the sensations of nature. Turtle Bay Resort unveiled its "stay well" guestrooms with memory foam mattresses, sound machines, customizable aromatherapy, a shower infuser, in-room equipment and unlimited fitness classes. And, Halekulani has implemented its "Living Well" interactive program with complimentary classes including Writing Your Way to Well-being, Take Back Your Sleep, The Magic Behind the Numbers and the Law of Attraction.

The Hawaiian Islands | Taro or kalo in the Hawaiian language, is the main of two ingredients - the other being water - used to make one of Hawaii's most well-known local delicacies, poi. As Native Hawaiians believe a kinship exists between people and the natural world, kalo and its cultivation practices have been valued for generations. If your Oahu-bound clients wish to immerse in traditional Hawaiian culture and farming practices, nonprofit organizations Hookuaaina and Hooulu Aina offer volunteer opportunities to plant and care for kalo, and learn about its origins and significance. On Kauai, Hanalei Taro and Juice Co. offers tours of its Hanalei Valley taro farm on which guests can watch how kalo corm is pounded into poi. On Maui, suggest your clients order Lineage restaurant's exquisite take on the Hawaiian cuisine favorite squid luau, combining creamed taro leaf with charred squid and coconut candy.

The Hawaiian Islands | traditional Hawaiian dishes to innovative fusion cuisine, enjoy an array of delicious culinary surprises. Experience a traditional luau with mesmerizing song and dance, indulge in succulent seafood, and tempt your senses with tantalizing desserts or cocktails. The Hawaiian Islands delight the discerning food connoisseur with a myriad of delicacies and authentic dishes. Click on each island to view our four-page Culinary Delights booklet for each island and log in to our agent resource center to customize them for your clients: Island of Hawaii | Kauai | Maui and Lanai | Oahu

Oahu | Strolling Santa visits the International Market Place in Waikiki every weekend in December, dressed in Aloha attire and ready for selfies and pictures. Consider celebrating the holidays on the Grand Lanai. This rooftop dining mecca offers eight chef-driving restaurants, ideal for holiday events and festive family celebrations. Click here for more information.

Island of Hawaii & Kauai | Discover these incredible foodie festivals to satisfy every appetite. The Kona Coffee Cultural Festival is a 10-day celebration usually held in November, with coffee-inspired activities, sipping competitions, farm tours, a Kona town lantern parade and Miss Kona Coffee Pageant. Kauai's hosts an annual Coconut Festival, typically in October, with cook-offs, pie-eating contests, cultural activities and coconut-inspired dishes.

The Hawaiian Islands | Celebrate Halloween with Aloha style, the islands are full of activities and events to don your costume and explore with the locals. In Maui, the Lahaina Halloween Party offers live entertainment and cocktail specials for costumed guests, attend Hallowbaloo in Honolulu's Chicnatown neighborhood with street festivities including a craft beer garden, live music, art displays and food vendors or take in a spooky nighttime tour with Oahu Ghost Tours with stories of the ancient sacrifices, sightings of the Fire Goddess Madame Pele, and the legend of the Choking Ghost of Waikiki.

Maui & Oahu | Winter Wave Season has arrived ... heightened swells on north-facing shores of the islands await. The season marks a handful of months when pro surfers from around the world converge on famed surf spots including Oahu's North Shore and the north coast of Maui. The annual Vans Triple Crown of Surfing kicks off the season at Sunset beach from October - November. However, surfing competitions continue throughout the season including the Billabong Pipe Masters, the Eddie, Peahi Challenge and Hawaiian Pro. Click here for dates and locations.

The Hawaiian Islands | Whether it's a unique natural wonder, a National Historic Site, Park or Monument, or a sacred place that encapsulates native Hawaiian customs and beliefs, Heritage Sites throughout the island provide significant historical, cultural and environmental contributions to understand these unique islands. Be sure to visit Bishop Museum, Iolani Palace, Punchbowl, Pearl Harbor or Washington Place in Oahu; Waimea Canyon State Park or Kilauea Point Lighthouse in Kauai; Kaunolu Village on Lanai; Haleakala National Park or Iao Valley on Maui; and Akaka Falls, Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, Kealakekua Bay, Hulihee Palace or Puuhonua o Honaunau ... to name just a few not to be missed sites.

Maui & Oahu | Experience the holidays with the spirit of Aloha including unique activities like tree lighting ceremony at the Fairmont Kea Lani, Maui with a dazzling 23,000 lights, live music, hula dancers and holiday treats. Plus Santa arrives via outrigger canoe, followed by stories with Mrs. Claus over cookies, cocoa and milk. The Kahala Hotel & Resort sets aside time with Santa at tea parties including peanut butter and marshmallow fluff sandwiches and chocolate-chip scones. Or lace up your skates and take a spin around a 1,000-square-foot outdoor skating rink at The Westin Kaanapali Ocean Resort Villas.

The Hawaiian Islands | Click here for a variety of videos with travel tips from the Hawaii Visitors Convention Bureau.

The Hawaiian Islands | The Maoli Arts Movement (also known as MAMo) is a month long celebration each May spotlighting Native Hawaiian arts, artists, cultural practitioners and fashion designers via art gallery exhibitions, art markets and runway shows recognizing their knowledge, work and skills. The Hawaiian word maoli refers to being "native" or "indigenous". MAMo's two largest wearable art shows - at the Maui Arts and Cultural Center on Maui, and Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikiki Beach Resort on Oahu - are among the best annual opportunities to learn about modern maoli arts, meet up-and-coming maoli designers, and discover the ever-expanding definition of Native Hawaiian fashion.

The Hawaiian Islands | Celebrate the Chinese New Year in Oahu. Kicking off "The Year of the Rat," downtown Honolulu's Chinatown Culture and Arts District hosts a variety of events, festivals, parades and firework displays during the last few weeks of January. The largest event takes place on January 18 with the Night in Chinatown and Lunar New Year Parade with food booths, live performances and a colorful parade. Celebrate with good-luck Chinese dishes, place some money in the mouth of a dancing lion for good luck and marvel at the incredible fireworks finale.

The Hawaiian Islands | Journese' promise of a seamless experience is enhanced through our concierge service in The Hawaiian Islands. Our dedicated Island Concierges on each island personally calls your clients upon arrival to welcome them to The Hawaiian Islands, offer any assistance, and deliver pre-booked excursion tickets directly to their hotel room.

The Hawaiian Islands | the years I have been on a quest to find the best Mai Tai in Hawaii. My current favorite is from the Kona Canoe Club in downtown Kona. With a spectacular ocean view, it's a great way to relax after an afternoon of shopping. However, my all-time favorite was made by Sid at Kona Village ... I miss it! But I was fortunate enough to receive his family recipe and am happy to share it with you:
SID KONO'S FAMILY MAI TAI RECIPE
- 3/4 oz. Bacardi Light Rum
- 3/4 oz. Bacardi Gold Rum
- 3/4 oz. Orange Curacao
- 3 oz. Pineapple Juice
- 3 oz. Sweet & Sour Mix
Mix all of the ingredients with crushed ice. Then float 3/4 oz. Coruba Jamaican Dark Rum on top. Garnish with a pineapple and plumeria flower. Enjoy! ~ Lauri Huffman, Operations & Support Manager

The Hawaiian Islands | Make a difference on your vacation by volunteering with 808 Cleanups on Oahu. With the moto "Keeping Hawaii Clean from Mauka to Maiki" (Mountain to Sea), this non-profit is dedicated to resorting Hawaii's natural beauty. Volunteers assist in beach clean ups, clearing litter and invasive species from hiking trails, graffiti removal from sacred Hawaiian heiau (temples) and more.

The Hawaiian Islands | Join the Whale Trust and The Ritz-Carlton, Kapalua on February 14 - 17, 2020 for the 14th annual Whales Tales celebration. Top scientists, photographers and conservationists will showcase immersive hands-on educational opportunities, stunning underwater photography and videos and optional whale watching cruises. Presentations, special events and benefits are complimentary throughout the weekend, though donations to support the Whale Tales 2020 Beneficiary project and research programs are appreciated.

Island of Hawaii | Some of the best malasadas (jelly-filled donuts) are found at Tex's Drive-In in Honokaa; be sure to try mango, guava and raspberry. Pick up some stone cookies to take home with you, from Mt. View Bakery in Mountain View - they're perfect for dipping in coffee. Or, if you're looking for a casual eatery, stop by Cafe 100 in Hilo - originally opened in 1946. For a local favorite, order the traditional loco moco, or consider beef teriyaki or chicken katsu.

Island of Hawaii | Celebrate Turtle Independence Day on July 4 at Mauna Lani Bay Hotel & Bungalows with live entertainment, educational displays and a welcome ceremony honoring the honu with a momentous release into the wild.

Island of Hawaii | Savor 100% Kona coffee - grown only in the mineral-rich volcanic soil on the slopes of Hualalai and the Mauna Loa Mountains.

Island of Hawaii | Mauna Kea Beach Hotel now offers Golfboards - the newest rage on the course! Surf the Earth at Mauna Kea Golf Course, a fun new way to carve your way through a round of golf. These easy-ride boards are a great exercise option and tons of fun too. Click here to learn more about it. ~ Gary Hunn, Destination Marketing Manager

Island of Hawaii | Seeing the manta rays at night is a must at Sheraton Kona Resort & Spa at Keauhou Bay. Guests can view the mantas from the lanais of the oceanfront rooms or from the Rays on the Bay restaurant. ~ Lauren Taveres, Destination Specialist

Island of Hawaii | There are multiple special events and activities to explore on the Island of Hawaii, including the Kona Historical Society's sweet bread making with a traditional Portuguese stone oven usually every Thursday, The Shops at Mauna Lani's Taste of the Movies film festival in May with chefs presenting specialties paired with foodie movies including Mystic Pizza, Chocolat and Ratatouille or beginning in April visit Rays on the Bay at the Sheraton Kona Resort & Spa at Keauhou Bay on Saturdays and Sundays for a Street Market Bubbles & BBQ featuring local farmers, artists, complimentary cultural activities and food booths.

Island of Hawaii | Avid surfers should plan to visit Ke'ei, Kealakekua Bay on the Big Island. With an underwater reef that stretches out for 300 yards, surfers are promised long, consistent rides when conditions are just right. Intermediate to master surfers will have a blast just hanging-10 with friends at Ke'ei Kealakekua bay.

Kauai | Koloa Plantation Days, an annual celebration of Hawaii's sugar plantation history and the event's namesake town, returns to Kauai's sunny south shores in July. Held in the Kauai district where Hawaii's first sugar plantation was founded in 1835, the 10-day festival celebrates and honors the cultural history of the many ethnic groups that settled on the island to work its sugar plantations. We encourage Kauai-bound clients to experience the Koloa area's diverse cultures through the festival's lineup of live music events and performances, historic exhibits, culinary demonstrations, a Hawaii-style rodeo, parade and more.

Kauai | An exquisite 27-foot koa wood bar carved in traditional sugarcane and pineapple motifs is the spotlight of Stevenson's Sushi & Spirits at the Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort & Spa. Honolulu raised Head Sushi Chef, Jay Ledee creates delicious sushi delights and the bar boasts an extensive selection of whiskies, cognac, sake and wine, plus creative martinis and tropical drinks. And, enjoy live contemporary island music each evening.

Kauai | Roy Yamaguchi and Peter Merriman are two of the chefs known for the Hawaiian Regional Cuisine movement. You can partake of their exceptional dishes at Roy's Poipu or Merriman's Fish House - also in Poipu, Kauai.

Kauai | For a fun family activity, consider trying Mountain Tubing, an exclusive experience on private lands that haven't been open to the public before in the Kauai Backcountry. Enjoy a leisurely float through open ditches, tunnels and flumes, followed by a picnic and swimming in a natural mountain swimming hole.

Kauai | Enjoy a delicious meal at Kilauea Bakery & Pau Hana Pizza - the Billie Holiday includes smoked ono, roasted onions and gorgonzola rosemary sauce. Visit Lappert's Ice Cream in Hanapepe or Princeville to enjoy a fresh cup of Kona coffee or a gourmet treat such as mango ice cream. Visit Kauai Kookie to sample unforgettable guava macadamia nut cookies and take home exceptional salad dressings, including Papaya Seed.

Kauai | Kauai is full of many types of fish, and you only need a license for freshwater fish. Consider a deep sea fishing excursion or stop by Alekoko or Menehune Fishpond near Lihue for your own fishing experience in Kauai, catching ono, mahimahi, opakapaka and marlin.

Kauai | Kauai is truly an amazing island with some of the most amazing natural phenomenon you'll ever seen. At night experience the "moon bow" a complete ring around the moon (caused by the moon reflecting off the water droplets in the clouds) and at Waimea Canyon, you can sometimes witness a rainbow that is a complete circle. Nature at its finest.

Kauai | Kick off Koloa Plantation Days Festival at the Paniolo Heritage Rodeo from July 19 - 21, 2019. Cheer at fast-action high-stakes barrel races, bull riding and roping with traditional and new rodeo sports , plus enjoy delicious local Paniolo BBQ, Hawaiian music and the display of Paniolos Heritage exhibition. Delight in paniolo-themed events, legacy music, Hawaiian Pau riders in their flowing skirts and flower leis, and children's rodeo events that will entertain and inspire the future Paniolos. This signature Rodeo weekend promises to educate, entertain and keep the culture and heritage of Hawaiian Paniolo alive in the memories of visitors and locals alike.

Maui | When on Maui, be sure to visit Kula. A quaint, rustic area on the slopes of Haleakala, Kula is home to much of the exotic produce served at many of Maui's best farm-to-table restaurants. Enjoy a variety of farm tours at Surfing Goat Dairy, Maui Ocean Vodka, Alii Kula Lavender Farm, MauiWine, and more. ~ Gary Hunn, Destination Marketing Manager

Maui | Click here to find 10 classic Maui restaurants. Fueled by local ingredients and cutting-edge chefs, these favorite Maui restaurants have staying power. Plus, discover Hawaii's most iconic foods ... click here to learn more about these traditional dishes include Spam Musubi, Poke, Loco Moco, Shave Ice and classic luau fare such as kalua pig, lau lau, lomi lomi salmon, haupia and poi.

Maui | There is nothing like watching the sunrise over Haleakala - it is simply breathtaking and awe-inspiring. Take advantage of the time difference from the mainland and plan your Haleakala Sunrise Excursion on the day after your arrival. Leaving the hotel by 3:00am won't be so difficult as your body will still feel like it's 6:00am. Also dress warm and ask your hotel for an extra blanket to take with you, it's quite chilly. However, it really is an experience not to be missed. ~ Chenoa Hopkins, Marketing Project Manager

Maui | When staying at the Fairmont Kea Lani, Maui, consider upgrading to a Villa - you'll love all the additional amenities including complimentary valet parking, daily breakfast for up to six guests, a welcome basket filled with tropical fruits, Hawaiian jams, fresh baked bread, brie cheese and snacks, plus chilled water and tropical juices delivered daily. Plus, the resort offers a wonderful cultural program with complimentary Canoe Experiences, 'Olelo Hawai'i (Hawaiian Language) talks, Ocean Discovery Program and Torch Lighting Ceremonies.

Maui | Enjoy a variety of Holiday events and activities at the Hyatt Regency Maui Resort & Spa including live holiday music, holiday movies poolside, Santa Watch rooftop spying on Christmas Eve, Santa's Workshop, Santa's Mail and a New Years Eve Tour the Stars Party.

Maui | The spa and pool at Grand Wailea are beyond compare. The exclusive Terme Hydrotheraphy Circuit in the spa has five specialty baths for soaking, a Japanese furo, Roman tub, sauna and my favorite, the cascading waterfalls, where you can relax under warm water dropping from around 12-15 feet above you, creating a soft pounding massage on your back. My kids can spend hours every day in the expansive pool area. Our favorite spot is in front of the rope swing - it's quite entertaining watching kids (and adults) of ages challenge themselves with flips or going backward and upside down. Plus, with a water elevator, rapids slide, waterslides, Jacuzzis and a lazy river, there is something for everyone. ~ Chenoa Hopkins, Marketing Project Manager

Maui | Kaanapali Beach has to be our family's favorite. But, there is this little hidden beach that the locals go to called Baby's Beach. It's the most perfect beach for families that have small children because the water is so calm and the water is shallow. ~ Christina Liang, Destination Specialist

Maui | Craving something sweet? Stop by Lahaina Fudge Company on Front Street for some soft orange cream or maple nut fudge, or pick up some freshly baked macadamia nut muffins at Stillwell's Bakery & Cafe. Start your day with banana bread french toast at 808 Bistro, or indulge in an afternoon snack at Tasaka Guri Guri Shop - the guri guri ice cream is a favorite blend of sherbet and ice cream.

Maui | In September, enjoy La Ulu: Breadfruit Day! The Maui Nui Botanical Gardens will host the second annual community event with food booths, breadfruit cooking demonstrations, Pacific ulu varieties for sale, cultural activities and hula ... all complimentary. Savor a number of specialties including 'ulu horchata, Pono Pies, 'ulu kalo burger, Maui Trosicles, 'ulu hummus, 'ulu pa'i'ai with coconut and tapioca wrapped in a banana leaf and even 'ulu ahi from a firepit.

Oahu | Having just returned from a FAM, I recommend a visit to The Nutridge Estate on Oahu. The Nutridge House is a rustic but lovely historic home located on the first macadamia plantation in Hawaii and is available for public events. The state-owned property, located above a steep slope in the Puu Uala'kaa State Wayside park in the Round Top Preserve, has incredible views of Honolulu and Waikiki and is a perfect place for a wedding or any celebratory event. Cool mountain breezes, birds and trees surround the grounds, providing for a serene location for lunch after exploring the grounds. ~ Krystyna Sanson, Business Development Manager

Oahu | Vans Triple Crown of Surfing takes place in Oahu from mid November to late December. The three-part series lasts 39 days and begins at Haleiwa Alii Beach, the North Shore's gateway to the famous 7 Mile Miracle. The second stop is the Vans World Cup, that takes place at the deep-water big wave venue of Sunset Beach, and the final event, the Billabong Pipe Masters, is hosted at Pipeline, where both the Vans Triple Crown and World Surf League Championship Tour simultaneously crowned the World Champion, VTCS series winner and event winner.

If you are arriving in Oahu I would recommend using our private transfers. You will enjoy your vacation the minute you step outside the gate area. Our partners will greet you at the gate and escort you to baggage claim and then on to your private transfer. This is definitely the way to go to start your vacation off right. ~ Cindy Flores, Lead Agent, Destination Specialist

Oahu | Treat Mom to a special celebration with Mahalo Mama Month at Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa with special offers including the Mahalo Mama package at Laniwai Spa, a decadent Breakfast in Bed, Ohana Hula classes, Mother's Day Gifts from the Heart created by Dad and keiki at the Pau Hana room, a complimentary 8x10 photo and savings on snorkeling at Rainbow Reef. What a wonderful way to show Mom just how much she means to you!

Oahu | Looking for a one-stop shop for a range of outdoor activities and feature filming locations ... look no further than Kualoa Ranch. Offering relaxing, secluded beaches, scenic catamaran voyages, nature hikes, ATVs, horseback riding and ziplining expeditions in the scenes of your favorite movies including Jurassic Park, 50 First Dates, Pearl Harbor and more, there is something for adventure seekers and film buffs alike. Click here for an article about this enticing location.

Oahu | Experience a Dolphin Quest Encounter at The Kahala Hotel & Resort to learn about the resident Atlantic Bottlenose dolphins in a personal and up-close encounter. Trainers offer daily educational programs with options to swim with, touch and feed the dolphins or go for a more in depth experience and become a Trainer for the Day. Plus, stay in a Dolphin Lanai guestroom which overlooks the dolphins private lagoon and watch them frolic day and night. ~ Gary Hunn, Destination Marketing Manager

Oahu | I love to go anywhere sunny that I can relax and enjoy some good food! My favorite place to go is Oahu, Hawaii, because you can enjoy the hustle and bustle of Waikiki or go outside of the city to get some relaxation. My aunt and I discovered Ted's Bakery on the North Shore. It's a really laid back, relaxed place and they have an amazing shrimp plate. And an absolute must is the chocolate haupia cream pie! ~ Andriana Ramos, Destination Specialist

Oahu | Travelers visiting Oahu in August are encouraged to join the fun at Duke's OceanFest, Oahu's premier ocean sports festival. Held each summer in Waikiki to honor Hawaiian legend Duke Kahanamoku, festivities range from surfing competitions and paddleboard racing to beach volleyball and surf polo tournaments. The festival also raises funds for the Outrigger Duke Kahanamoku Foundation's college scholarships and athletic grants program. The week's festivities culminate with the Duke's Statue lei draping ceremony to commemorate the anniversary of his birthday.

Oahu | Hawaiians consume more spam per capita than any other U.S. state so it is only fitting it hosts the largest festival in the world dedicated to this canned delight. The Waikiki Spam Jam typically takes place in April. Overtaking a large portion of Kalakaua Avenue for a wealth of food booths featuring inventive Spam-enhanced culinary creations, Spam-themed retail booths and three entertainment stages, thousands of locals and visitors alike enjoy this annual festival singing the praises of this canned, salty treat.

Oahu | The Hawaii Food & Wine Festival takes place in Oahu, typically in November. This festival is where you experience the natural abundance of Oahu, featuring world renowned culinary masters, winemakers and mixologists. Highlights include beachside dinners, fireworks, and popular Urban Luau with celebrity chefs from the hottest restaurants from coast to coast.

Oahu | Rainbow's Drive-In has a great plate lunch, located just past the zoo and has been featured on Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives with Guy Fiere. They offer large portion sizes and weekday specials, I highly recommend the Shoyu Chicken or traditional Loco Moco. ~ Chenoa Hopkins, Marketing Project Manager

Oahu | Consider a visit to Oahu in May to experience the Parade of Farms focusing on the Oahu agricultural and farming communities. During this time, you will be able to visit farms and talk to the farmers, participate in behind-the-scenes tours and engage in a dinner created by the freshest products from the farmer's market. With more than 60 varieties of mangos, Oahu celebrates with fruit at two summer events. The Mango Jam Honolulu, hosted in July, is a family-friendly event mixing live entertainment with food and craft booths, a beer garden and farmer's market. Also in July is the Mangoes at the Moana event at the Moana Surfrider, a Westin Resort & Spa featuring cooking demonstrations, recipe contests and a mango cocktail throwdown

In celebration of its first anniversary the International Market Place hosted a special dedication ceremony and the unveiling of a one-of-a-kind Don Ho statue on his date of birth, August 13. The bronze sculpture commemorates Ho's tremendous contributions to Hawaiian music and history. Ho launched his career when he was invited to perform at Duke Kahanamoku's, and became one of Waikiki's most recognizable icons with globally recognized songs, Tiny Bubbles and I'll Remember You.

Oahu | Be sure to relish tantalizing ice cream and pastries at popular eateries, such as Bubbies Homemade Ice Cream, Leonard's Bakery and Liliha Bakery.

Oahu | I loved doing the Sunrise Chant at The Royal Hawaiian, A Luxury Collection Resort. Hiu Wai takes place each Friday morning with traditional Hawaiian chants as guests are encouraged to immerse themselves in the healing waters of Waikiki. The ceremony is complementary at the property and it was a really great way to experience some authentic Hawaiian culture while in Oahu. ~ Jessica Neuner, Destination Specialist

Oahu | Stop by Giovanni's Shrimp Truck - the original food truck to enjoy three flavors of fresh local shrimp: garlic, lemon/butter, or hot and spicy. You can even sign your name on the truck. And now, there are multiple shrimp truck options across Oahu.