Pololu Lookout on Hawaii's Big Island

* We so love finding coupons to help us save on our Hawaii vacations, don’t we? With the money we save, we can afford to bring home more macadamia nuts and Kona coffee. Bank of Hawaii has just launched a new coupon site full of money saving coupons on dining, entertainment, groceries and more. (Hat tip to my friends at TheRightBlue)

* How about a spa bargain? Per my friends at the Hilton Hawaiian Village, beginning March 15th, Mandara Spa is offering a 50-minute aromatherapy massage or cleansing facial for $99 each. Call (808) 945-7721 to book.

* Aqua Resorts is giving away 3-night stays at any Aqua resort in Hawaii. When you book with the promo code “SWP” you’ll automatically be entered to win one of the nine weekly drawings for a 3-night stay, plus you’ll receive an instant 15% off their rates. Read all the details here. Aqua Resorts are located on Oahu, Kauai, Maui and Molokai.

* Sheraton Keauhou Bay on the Big Island has announced they’ll be spiffing up their rooms with new carpet, 37-inch flat screen televisions, and new paint. They anticipate having the renovations complete in two-thirds of their rooms by the end of the summer.

* Hilton Hawaiian Village just announced that they’re opening up their kids club, Camp Penguin, to all Waikiki visitors.

* The most recent (January 2010) stats for Hawaii hotel rates are out. Hawaii is still a great bargain with a statewide average hotel rate of $176 per night. Occupancy averaged 66.5%. So, when you go to Hawaii, you’ll be paying less and getting a little more elbow room. Here are the average rates paid per room per night by island. (Source)

• Oahu $149
• Maui $228
• Kauai $193
• Big Island $187

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I’ll organize the waterfalls by island. We’ll start in the South on the Big Island and work our way North to Kauai.

Akaka Falls on Hawaii’s Big Island

This 442-foot waterfall is well worth the short walk it takes on the paved path. I never miss an opportunity to see it when I’m on the Big Island. For directions, advice and a video of Akaka Falls, see my article Tips for Visiting Akaka Falls. While you’re there, also check out Kahuna Falls (photo) that’s on the same loop trail as Akaka Falls.

Rainbow Falls on Hawaii’s Big Island

At Rainbow Falls, water tumbles down over an arch-shaped rock above a cave. This waterfall is located in the town of Hilo on the Big Island’s east side. This waterfall is easily accessed for everyone as there are no stairs or long walk to see this attraction. For directions, advice, and a video of Rainbow Falls, see my article The Big Island’s Rainbow Falls in Hilo.

Oheo Gulch on Maui

The Oheo Gulch is a series of cascading waterfalls and pools. You might hear Oheo Gulch called the seven sacred pools, but that’s not it’s real name and there’s actually nothing sacred about it. You’ll find the Oheo Gulch just beyond Hana off the famous road to Hana in the Kipahulu area of Haleakala National Park. Just before the park entrance, you’ll drive over one of the many one-lane bridges, but this one hovers over the Oheo Gulch. You can snap a photo from the bridge, but I do recommend that you visit the Kipahulu area of Haleakala National Park, if you have the time. See my article, Visiting the Kipahulu Area of Haleakala National Park.

Other Road to Hana Waterfalls on Maui

I’d be remiss if I didn’t mention that you’ll see around a dozen or more waterfalls along the road to Hana. This area might offer the most concentrated number of waterfalls that you’ll find in all of Hawaii, and possibly, the world. Some of the waterfalls you’ll see just off the road, others take a short hike to view. If you are really into waterfalls, you might want to plan to spend a night in Hana so that you’ll have more time to find the many waterfalls off the road to Hana.

Manoa Falls on Oahu

To see the 100-foot Manoa Falls, you must hike 0.8 miles along a path through a lush green jungle. Visiting Manoa Falls can be as much about the journey as it is to see the waterfall itself. You’ll know for sure that you’re not in Waikiki when you visit the Manoa Valley and walk this trail. For advice and directions to Manoa Falls, see my article, Manoa Falls Trail, an Oahu Green Gem.

Wailua Falls on Kauai

Wailua Falls are probably the most iconic waterfalls in Hawaii. I think the photo speaks for itself, doesn’t it? These twin falls are easy to find and see when you visit Kauai’s east side. For directions, see my post, Kauai’s Wailua Falls. This waterfall is easily accessible for everyone.

Opeakaa Falls on Kauai

I like to describe Opeakaa Waterfalls as dainty because the water fans horizontally as it cascades down the lava rock wall. The brief diversion up Kuamoo Road (Highway 580) on Kauai’s east side is well worth the trip to see this waterfall along with the nearby views of Wailua River Valley. The views of Opeakaa Waterfalls is easy to access for everyone.

Waialeale Crater Waterfalls on Kauai

If you’d like to see lots of pencil thin waterfalls concentrated in one area, you’ll love taking a Kauai helicopter tour that takes you into Waialeale Crater, one of the wettest places on earth. It’s definitely a sight that will capture your attention.

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As I close this article, I’d like to add a disclaimer. Hawaii’s waterfalls are fed by rain, so if you happen to visit Hawaii after a dry spell, you may not get to see the waterfalls when they’re fully turned on, so to speak. See my post, Hawaii in Contrasts Rain and Waterfalls, to see how much difference the amount of rain makes to Hawaii’s waterfalls.

With this list of great Hawaii waterfalls, I’m only listing a sampling of the many beautiful waterfalls in the Aloha State. What other waterfalls would you add to this list? Which Hawaii waterfalls are your favorites?

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How do you describe watching a crater billow with smoke and glow from a lava lake that’s hundreds of feet below the surface? Somehow the words amazing and incredible just don’t do enough to adequately describe this sight.

As you are making your vacation plans for the Big Island of Hawaii, I hope you’ll find time to visit Hawaii Volcanoes National Park where you’ll discover this active crater called Halemaumau at the summit of Kilauea Volcano. If possible, aim to see it when the sun is down or at dawn or dusk so that you’ll be able to see the red glow from the lava lake. A great vantage point to view Halemaumau is from the Jaggar Museum within the national park off of Crater Rim Drive.

So, what’s creating the constant cloud of smoke and the red glow from Halemaumau crater? The crater has an opening in the floor that’s about 400 feet in diameter. This opening is essentially a vent that allows the volcanic pressure and gases to escape. The opening was created by an explosion in March 2008 and since then a consistent plume of smoke and ash have been flowing from the crater floor. The smoke is actually a mixture of volcanic gasses, ash, and steam.

The blood-orange glow that you’ll likely see at dusk, dark, and dawn is the glow of a lava lake that’s some 400 or 500 feet below the crater floor. The intensity of the glow varies almost minute by minute. Sometimes, it’s strong enough for the webcam at the Jaggar Museum to pick up the glow. I noticed that what you see in person is much stronger/better than what you see on the webcam.

It’s very fitting that Halemaumau has been active as this crater is called the home of Pele, the Hawaiian goddess of fire. For over 100 years Halemaumau has boiled with lava both above and below the surface.

What to know when you go:

• Since Halemaumau is located within Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, you must pay a $10 fee for park entry. This fee allows you entry in to the park for 7 days. See my tips for visiting Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. There is plenty to see and do inside the park besides Halemaumau.
• Volcanic fumes can be hazardous. I have noticed that them make me have a temporary dry cough. Park officials are constantly monitoring air quality based on the direction of the winds. Heed all warnings. Visitors with heart or breathing problems and infants, young children, and pregnant women are especially at risk and should avoid being in areas where fumes persist.
• Ideal times to see Halemaumau’s eruptive activity is around dusk and dawn where you have an opportunity to see both the red glow from the lava lake as well as the plume.
• See a collection of our photos from visiting Halemaumau.

Have you seen Halemaumau’s recent activity? How would you describe it.

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To join the community go to: http://www.facebook.com/govisithawaii and click on the button that says, “Become A Fan” and watch for another announcement this week. Mahalo!

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A View from Oahu's Pali Lookout

* Check out this months blog carnival of Aloha which has a preservation theme.

* Hawaii’s Prince Resorts have some good family deals with a 2 for 1 promotion and a kids eat free promotion. See these promotion details here.

* I was disappointed to hear that the Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources have fallen on such hard times that they have begun charging nonresidents a $3 fee to park at the Nu’uanu Pali Lookout. In my opinion, that’s a bit of a high fee considering that most folks only spend about 10 – 30 minutes here, there are no restroom facilities and the parking lot is notorious for car break ins. If you are a Hawaii resident, you are exempt from the fee. The Honolulu Advertiser has an article on this new fee with over 200 very lively comments. What do you think of the new $3 parking fee?

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Laura and Marco’s photos relate to their experience touring a Kona coffee farm where they roasted their own coffee under their own private coffee label at Ueshima Coffee Company.  The photo on the left shows their very own custom coffee label.

Laura and Marco say that their visit to Ueshima Coffee Company was one of their fondest Hawaii vacation memories from two years ago. Here’s more of how they described their experience:

You know, COFFEE  is a signature “attraction” on that island. We were told that it’s  mainly grown in the Kona area, just a few minutes away from the coastline , over Keauhou Bay .

100% Kona coffee is a very expensive treat, but surely worth it! Up in  the hills, around  the village Holualoa above Kailua, we encountered many “small coffee farms” and stopped by Ueshima Coffee Company to “ROAST OUR OWN PRIVATE LABEL” !

WOW ! A very kind “hostess ”  took us on  a tour of  the whole property and afterwards explained us how to roast coffee beans… as they used to do it in the gone-by days. (See photo of Laura roasting coffee.)  During the roasting process, as the temperature is rising, we experienced how the coffee flavor starts getting stronger and the color of the beans considerably darkens. After only ten minutes, we had to start the cooling process. A fun thing about it :  our “ineffable”  host stated that, for a good Kona coffee, Laura would have had  to “dance  the hula “ while cooling the beans… which she did with much fun!

OUR OWN COFFEE ended up SOOO  DELICIOUS   and  both of us were now officially certified   “ROASTMASTER FOR THE DAY” !

We could bring home (in ITALY) a whiff and a taste of Hawaii, to share with family and friends! What a fun experience we had! Tasting that  coffee was… simply magic … for such a long time after our trip!

A big mahalo to Laura and Marco for sharing their photos and coffee story of aloha! They are headed back to Hawaii in August. They’ll be visiting Oahu, Kauai and Maui. Let’s hope they’ll have new adventures and vacation stories like this one to share after their visit.

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* Maui’s Kapalua Villas resort condominiums are on sale with Outrigger Resorts, the new property management company. You can book a 1-bedroom fairway-view villa for $199 plus a $25 resort fee per night. With this rate, you’ll also receive $150 resort credit. This deal is valid for travel dates through December 21, 2010. For more information on this deal, click here. Kapalua is a Maui fabulous resort that we absolutely love.

* The 2010 Hawaii Entertainment Book is on sale for 50% off plus free shipping through March 14th. The sale price is $17. Click this link to read more and order your book. As we have previously discussed, the Hawaii Entertainment Book can quickly pay for itself if you are going to Oahu. To review that discussion, see this post, Hawaii Entertainment Coupon Books – Worth the price?

* US residents, don’t forget to enter the One Million HawaiianMiles Sweepstakes. Speaking of Hawaiian Airlines, you can sign up for a 10% off e-certificate that you can apply towards flights booked by March 14, 2010 for travel dates valid through December 15, 2010. .

* My blog pals at The Right Blue described their experience with Hawaii’s major tsunami warning over the weekend. It’s a captivating read.

* Lately, I’ve enjoyed reading a blog for the National Parks of the Pacific Islands that covers all kinds of interesting history and facts about the national parks of Hawaii as well as other Pacific islands. Check it out here.

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Maui’s weather is wonderfully warm year-round and if you’re headed there, then you’ll want to know how the weather is looking.  Here are some resources to help you out.

Long-Range Weather Forecasting

There’s a saying that past behavior is the best predictor of future behavior.  To a large extent that’s true for the weather.  Weather.com maintains a history of Maui’s average temperature and rainfall levels by month.  Those averages are a great indicator of future weather.  For example, you can see that January is the coolest and rainiest month while June is one of the warmer and drier months.

Seven to Ten Days Out

Hawaii’s local television stations have quite a bit of weather information online.  You can even watch a video of the seven-day forecast. For example, here’s the link for Hawaii News Now 7-day weather forecast for Kahalui.

Maui News, the island’s newspaper has a weather forecast section that allows you to focus on the weather for specific areas of the island.

Weather.com offers ten-day weather forecasts.  Here’s the link for Maui’s 10-day forecast.

Weather Forecast When You are On Your Maui Vacation

The National Weather Service offers a toll-free telephone number to hear more detailed and shorter term weather forecasts. That toll-free number is (866) 944-5025.  In addition to the general weather forecast, this automated phone service offers a wealth of information including:

• Sunrise, sunset and tide times.
• Haleakala summit forecast, which would be particularly useful if you plan to go to see Haleakala sunrise or sunset.
• Coastal water weather predictions including wind strength and wave heights.  This information would be useful if you plan to do any sailing, sea kayaking, or snorkeling.

What Maui weather forecasts do you use?

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In that app list, there’s some very useful free apps like:

• Hawaii News Now – for local news, weather and sports.
• Hawaii – What Chefs Eat – for restaurant recommendations.
• Surf Report – for beach and weather conditions.

Though not free, I’m impressed by this Hawaii Envi app that is designed to help you sightsee Oahu via TheBus system. The cost of that app is $1.99, which is a bargain versus renting and fueling a rental car.

I’m downloading a couple of $0.99 apps that look to be interesting — the Hawaiian Word of the Day and the iVacation Hawaii apps.

One iPhone app that’s not in that list that we routinely use in Hawaii is the free Yelp app to help us find restaurants when we’re in Hawaii as well as our other travels.

Do you have a useful travel-related iPhone application that you recommend? Please share them in the comments.

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Email subscribers – click here to access the ad.

Hmm…could this mean that if we go to Hawaii for surfing and hiking, we could become Olympic medalists?

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Did you know that on the Big Island of Hawaii. you can  walk underground where lava flowed hundreds of years ago? You can do just that at Thurston Lava Tube inside Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, just off Crater Rim Drive. To say that it’s an amazing sight and experience is an understatement.

Thurston Lava Tube is one of the most popular natural attractions within Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. From about mid-morning until late afternoon, bus loads of tourists are visiting the lava tube. Sometimes it’s even a challenge to find a parking spot. You can beat the crowds by visiting early in the morning and what a difference it makes.

Andy and I have visited Thurston Lava Tube several times throughout the day. We’ve discovered if you go to Thurston Lava Tube early in the morning, you’ll practically have the entire area to yourself. Aim to get here before about 9:30am. The rainforest area around the lava tube is so peaceful early in the morning.

The loop trail to and through the lava tube is paved and well lit. Plan on about 20 minutes to walk the trial. The path has a couple of inclines, but nothing too strenuous. Unfortunately, the trail isn’t wheelchair accessible.

If you are a bit more adventurous and curious about lava tubes, you can explore an optional section of the lava tube. It is not lit, so you will definitely need a flash light.

Of course the lava tube is the big attraction here, but I hope you also get a chance to notice the wonderful rainforest surroundings. You can’t help but gawk at the giant Hawaiian hapuu ferns. Also take a few moments to watch for a beautiful red bird, the ‘apapane, as it gathers nectar from the Lehua blossom of the Ohia trees.

Please enjoy this brief slideshow of photos from Thurston Lava Tube.

If you are planning on going Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, be sure and read my tips for Hawaii Volcanoes National Park.

Please help us make Go Visit Hawaii even better by taking our quick reader survey. We value your opinion. Mahalo!

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The  Hawaii Tourism Authority issued the following statement following the tsunami.:

“At approximately 1:40 p.m., the Pacific Tsunami Warning Center cancelled the tsunami warning in Hawaii.  There was no reported damage to the state as a result of the tsunami generated by the earthquake off the coast of Chile.  Hotels and other visitor-related facilities are open and operating normally.

Most flights to and from Hawaii are on schedule, however, there may be some delays and travelers should check with their airline before going to the airport.

For more information, call 1-800-gohawaii or visit www.scd.hawaii.gov.”

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I wouldn’t mind trying this nutty concoction, but I’m quite fond of the milk chocolate, toffee covered macadamia nuts.

So, what do you think of this flavor combination? Would you like to give it a try? Would you purchase Macadamia Nuts with SPAM for souvenirs?

Mahalo to Dave for the photo submission! Do you have a photo that you’d like to share for our Aloha Friday Photo series? Please let me know.

Please help us make Go Visit Hawaii even better by taking our quick reader survey. Your opinion matters. Mahalo!

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No matter where you travel, one of the best ways to experience authentic local culture is to find the locals’ favorite restaurants. That’s certainly true in Hawaii; so, I encourage you to explore Oahu restaurants beyond the resorts to discover some ‘ono grinds that will broke the mouth.  When you eat where the locals eat, you not only taste the local culture, you usually save money versus eating at the fancy resort restaurants. Bonus!

So, where are Hawaii’s restaurants that locals love? From all my travels to Hawaii along with some excellent help from my Oahu friends, I can recommend that you try these local faves:

Honolulu Near Waikiki

* Rainbow Drive In at the intersection of Kanaina Avenue and Kapahulu Avenue in Honolulu. It’s in the Kapahulu area that’s adjacent to Waikiki Beach. Read my review of Rainbow Drive In

* Leonard’s Bakery at 933 Kapahulu Avenue, Honolulu, HI is near Waikiki. The specialty here is their malasada, a Portuguese doughnut. See my review of Leonard’s Bakery.

* Eggs n’Things at 343 Saratoga Road, Honolulu, Hawaii is great place for breakfast and fairly close to the heart of Waikiki’s hotel area. Here’s their Web site. (Note that it’s close to a post office where you can mail your postcards and your souvenirs.)

* Waiola Bakery & Shave Ice at 525 Kapahulu Avenue, Honolulu, HI is a great place to try shave ice. See my post on Waiola Bakery & Shave Ice.

Honolulu Away from Waikiki

* Nico’s Pier 38 at 1133 N. Nimitz Highway, Honolulu, HI. Read my review of Nico’s Pier 38

* Side Street Inn is tucked away at 1225 Hopaka St., Honolulu, HI. I say tucked away because, it seems like it’s down a small alley. If Side Street Inn sounds familiar, it’s probably because it’s one of the local spots that Anthony Bourdain visited in Honolulu for his show No Reservations. I’ve not had a chance to write about my experience here yet, but when you go, try the fried rice and fried pork chops. Here’s more local advice on what to try at Side Street Inn. (Thanks to my friend Nathan Kam for this recommendation.)

* Zippy’s restaurants have many locations across Oahu. See my post on trying Zippy’s.

* Liliha Bakery at 515 N. Kuakini St, Honolulu, HI. I’m a huge fan of Liliha Bakery’s coco puffs. My goodness, they are so, so good! Liliha Bakery offers a dine-in, countertop-seating area or you can just pick up pastries to go. Whatever you do, don’t miss the coco puffs! See my article on Liliha Bakery.

* Highway Inn at 94-226 Leoku St., Waipahu, Hawaii (Okay, so this one isn’t technically in Honolulu, but to me it made the most sense to categorize it here.) A restaurant that’s been in business since 1947 has to be good, right? Here’s the Highway Inn website. I’ve heard that either the Food Network or Travel Channel was recently filming here.

Kailua

* Cinnamon’s Restaurant  at 315 Uluniu Street in the heart of Kailua has one of the best breakfasts on the entire island. See my review of Cinnamon’s Restaurant.

* Boots & Kimos at 131 Hekili St, Kailua, HI. Like pancakes? Like macadamia nuts? You’ll love the famous Boots & Kimos pancakes with macadamia nut sauce. This very small restaurant usually has a long wait, so don’t come here if you are in a hurry. Oh, and another tip, bring cash because credit cards aren’t accepted.

North Shore Oahu

* Hukilau Cafe at 55-662 Wahinepee St, Laie, Hi. Want to go way off the beaten path? The Hukilau Cafe is your place. It’s a tiny little restaurant in Laie near the North Shore of Oahu. I’ve had breakfast here and it was pretty tasty.

* North Shore Shrimp Trucks off Kamehameha Highway in Kahuku offer a unique dining experience that attract both locals and visitors. See my post on North Shore Shrimp Trucks.

* Teds Bakery at 59-024 Kamehameha Hwy, Sunset Beach, HI. I’ve never had a bad meal from Ted’s Bakery and I’ve eaten here many times. They are famous for their chocolate and coconut pies. Sadly, I must confess, I’ve not tried them yet. Here is Ted’s Bakery’s Web site

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We are fortunate that two local residents, Dave and Alice, prepared a fantastic list of their favorite Oahu restaurants and categorized them in a very convenient format for us. So, please don’t miss their article on the top Oahu restaurants by local residents Dave and Alice.

This list of Oahu’s local restaurants is not intended to be an exhaustive list, but it should give you more than enough choices to plan into your  vacation. Have you dined at any of these Oahu local favorites? What other Oahu restaurants would you recommend?

* I rarely see deals for the JW Marriott Ihilani Resort in the Ko’Olina resort area of Oahu. So, when I saw this deal for $199 per night, I had to let you know. That’s a savings of $140 per night. This is a great resort for those who love watching sunset.

* I’m seeing the $299 per night deal at the Ritz-Carlton, Kapalua again. Kapalua is one of my favorite spots in Maui and this Ritz-Carlton is set next to one of the most beautiful Maui beaches, which is DT Fleming Beach. If you’re looking for a quite and romantic honeymoon spot on Maui, this one is perfect. In addition to the reduced room rate, this deal also includes breakfast for two and $100 resort credit.

* As you may know, you can save a lot of money by staying in a condo in Hawaii. On Kauai, the Outrigger Kaihuna Plantation resort is offering rates starting at $169 on the sunny south side of Kauai.

* From Airfarewatchdog.com, I found these excellent fares to Maui:

• LAX – OGG $386 round-trip
• PDX – OGG $382 round-trip
• SNA – OGG $386 round-trip

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Joe told me that that the 2009 average Oahu home sold for Single Family home sold for $684,341 for a single family home and $346,103 for a condo. Based on the current market, most single family home are listed in the price range of $650,000-$700,000 with an average of 4 bedrooms, 1,800 sq foot interior living space and  9,600 sq/feet of lot size.

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You’ve been visiting/exploring this island paradise for years now, each time vowing to spend just a little more time here and then one day, it strikes you like a coconut falling off a tree — why not make the leap and officially call Hawaii home? After all, Aloha Friday just doesn’t have the same meaning in, Seattle, Chicago, San Jose or wherever else you’re currently hanging your hat.

Now you’re ready to pack up your possessions and make the move. But with all things, it’s often easier said than done. Where to begin? You’ve picked your island, Oahu — a balanced blend of paced city life with a laidback beach feel. But just like any move on the Mainland, it all begins with finding the right neighborhood. To help you find your own personal island paradise, we’ve got the low-down on Oahu’s most sought-after neighborhoods, from the newest, most affordable towns to the island’s most luxurious communities.

From Luxury Living at its Best…

Hawaii Loa Ridge – a Diamond Head area neighborhood
(Approximate price range of $1,900,000 to $9,000,000+ million)

If million-dollar panoramic views and private, gated exclusivity is what you’re looking for, look no further than Hawaii Loa Ridge. This ultra-posh community is home to some of the most opulent estates on the island. One of the most prized features of living in this gated neighborhood is the sweeping view of the Pacific Ocean from Diamond Head Crater to Koko Head Crater. Additional amenities include 24-hour security, tennis courts, and access to Hawaii Loa Ridge Trail, a moderate hike that offers dramatic far-reaching views of Hawaii Kai to the east and Waikiki to the west. But living at the top doesn’t mean that you’re cut off from civilization. Take a short drive down the hill to find ample shopping and entertainment in neighboring Kahala and Hawaii Kai Town.

Waialae/Kahala – a Diamond Head area neighborhood
(Approximate price range of $1.2 million to $7,000,000)

The community of Kahala encompasses some of the most expensive beachfront property in the nation and is considered one of the wealthiest townships on Oahu. Also located in Kahala is the world-class Kahala Hotel, a destination for many celebrities, and The Waialae Country Club, one of the most exclusive golf clubs on the island and home to the PGA Sony Open. Homes in Kahala range from beachfront manses to chic island residences lined along the quiet surrounding streets. Dining, shopping and entertainment are steps away at Kahala Mall, which hosts a Whole Foods, movie theater and other boutique shops.

Diamond Head
(Approximate price range from $97,000 to $2,300,000)

Famously known as Oahu’s “Gold Coast” due to its’ prime location just steps away from the beach, the Diamond Head neighborhood consists of lavish homes and high-end condominiums. Some of the more notable homes in this community include Doris Duke’s expansive Shangri-La estate and the mansion that was home to the cast of MTV The Real World: Hawaii. One of the best features to living in this luxurious area is the ample access to a host of outdoor activities with nearby Diamond Head State Monument and sprawling Kapiolani Park. Concerts in the park at Waikiki Shell and outings to the Honolulu Zoo are just only a few of the abundant activities to do. And if you feel the urge to play tourist every now and then, Waikiki Beach is just a short distance away.

To Island Living at Affordable Prices…

If you look at just the numbers, Oahu’s Leeward side is arguably one of the most affordable areas on the island. But as with all things, one can’t rely on price alone. While the Waianae coastline is known for its beautiful beaches and green valleys, it is not the most ideal neighborhood for Mainland transplants as the area continues to have a developing educational system and local residents pride themselves for maintaining a small community that remains deeply tied to Old Hawaii and its traditions. So where can you live without losing your shirt? Below are a few great neighborhoods that combine the laid-back style of island living at more suitable prices.

Ewa
(Approximate price range from $139,000 to $2,000,000 million)

This central Oahu district began as a plantation town encircled by fields of sugar cane crops. Overtime the sugar cane industry dissipated and the area was gentrified to meet the growing needs of Oahu’s booming housing market. Today, Ewa is a collection of single- and multi-family residences as well as suburban developments of modern townhomes with community recreational centers that offer classes on a variety of activities including yoga, martial arts and more — perfect for families with children. It’s nearby distance to Kapolei and it’s many restaurants, shopping and entertainment makes Ewa the perfect community to live, work and play.

Kapolei
(Approximate price range from $245,000 to $740,000)

Developed as a second urban center for Oahu after Honolulu, Kapolei is one the fastest growing communities in Hawaii, earning it the moniker “The Second City”. This new community was designed to have it all and all within reach. Residents don’t need to travel far for their daily needs and the growing school system is ideal for young families. Whether you’re looking for a single-family home, townhome or an executive community with access to luxury amenities, Kapolei has it all.

Mililani – In the Oahu real estate region of Central Oahu
(Approximate price range from $130,000 to $1,200,000)

Mililani Town in central Oahu was one of the first suburban communities on Oahu and continually ranks as one of the best places to live (Money Magazine 2007). This quaint community is known for its close-knit neighbors, cozy well-kept properties and safe environment. Activities abound for families as Mililani Town Association also sponsors several recreational centers that host amenities such as community pools and tennis courts. A mix of local shops and a few big-box stores make it easy for residents to get just about anything without going the distance.

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So, which neighborhood have you chosen? Were you surprised by the prices?

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I have prepared this useful list of the most important locations along with practical advise for how to see them. As long as you have a rental car and a map, you’ll be sure to enjoy these LOST locations and the scenery in between. The following customized Google Map indicates the top three locations. (Note: if the map does not display, please click here to access it.)

View Favorite Lost Filming Locations in a larger map

Hurley's Golf Course in Ka'a'awa Valley

1. Kuoloa Ranch
This private ranch is located off Highway 83 on East Oahu. From here, you can find two commonly used scene locations at Kaaawa Valley and Molii Fishpond on two separate ranch tours. The Kaaawa Valley has been the backdrop for many scenes including where the VW Van was started and Hurley’s golf course. Actually, it’s rare that there’s an episode of LOST that doesn’t include this gorgeous valley.  I’ve taken the Movie Set Ranch Tour which goes directly into Kaaawa Valley and specifically identifies Hurley’s golf course.

If you have the time while you are at the Kualoa Ranch, I’d recommend you also take the Hawaiian Fishpond tour that takes you to Molii Fishpond. This pond is the site where submarines have come to and from “the island” on many episodes. This fishpond and surrounds have also been “in Korea”, for example where Jin’s father fished. In addition to seeing where important LOST scenes were filmed, you’ll also learn about Hawaiian Fishponds.

Note that neither of these Kuoloa Ranch tours are LOST specific, but they do take you to the private lands and area where the show is set. The tours are only offered at specific times, so check their schedule and book your tours accordingly.

If you are navigating by GPS on Oahu, which I highly recommend, aim for this address:  49-560 Kamehameha Highway Kaaawa, HI 96730

2.  LOST Survivors’ Beach Camp at Police Beach

LOST's Survivors' Beach Camp

You’ll find the beach camp just off Papailoa Road, just north of Haleiwa. Please review my detailed instructions on how to find the LOST survivors’ beach camp . If you are navigating by GPS, aim for Papailoa Road, Haleiwa, HI 96712 

3.  The “Other’s” Camp at YMCA Camp Erdman
This YMCA camp is located off Dillingham Highway towards the far northwest tip of Oahu.  Please note that you can only get there by approaching from the North.

As soon as you start to approach these little yellow cabins, you’ll instantly recognize them as the Other’s camp. When you park here, just be careful not to interrupt any camp activities that might be going on and don’t trespass, please.

If you are navigating my GPS, aim for the address of 69-385 Farrington Highway, Waialua, HI.

While you are in this area, you might also want to take a brief stop at Mokule’ia Beach Park, walk to the beach and do a 360. This beach is where the crash scene was filmed. Mokuleia Beach Park is located across the road from Dillingham Airfield.

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You know the phrase, “Sometimes you don’t know what you don’t know”? Well that was the case with me until I had a chance to try polarized sunglasses for myself. Andy had a pair of polarized glasses and I noticed that sometimes he’d make comments about things he could see, but I couldn’t. Then Andy would let me try on his polarized glasses and I could see what he was seeing. Wow, what a difference!

Polarized sunglasses are perfect for Hawaii because they cut down on the glare of the sun on the ocean and sand. When the glare is removed, you are able to see a greater depth of colors. Sometimes, polarized sunglasses help you see into the water, making coral and fish visible.

Another advantage of polarized sunglasses is that it prevents your eyes from getting fatigued. So when you’re out driving and sightseeing, not only are you able to see more without glare, your eyes aren’t getting tired.

The image below illustrates the difference between standard vision and polarized vision. (Image credit to 2020mag.com). Quite a difference, eh? I think it’s a little bit exaggerated, but not too much.

So, where do you purchase polarized sunglasses and how much do they cost? I’ve noticed that polarized sunglasses have become more widely available – even within the last year. I’ve found them at discount stores like Walmart and Target for under $20. I purchased mine from my local REI store on sale for less than $30. Designer glasses are more widely available in men’s styles. I’ve shopped for ladies designer glasses and the selection is very, very slim. When you are shopping for polarized glasses look for a sticker or tag that says they’re polarized. If it’s daytime when you are shopping, test glasses by looking though a window or around any surface that might reflect a glare.

Have you tried polarized sunglasses? Are you a fan of them, too?

Find more tips on what to pack for your Hawaii vacation.

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I adore photos of Hawaii lifeguard stations, so naturally I fell in love with this photo from Waikiki Beach at sunset by Paul, the Flying Photog. Ah, wouldn’t you kind of like to be transformed into a Hawaii lifeguard station? You’d get to sit on the beach and watch the waves all day long.  Mahalo, Paul, for your permission to post your photo!

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1.  Get free samples of shampoo and conditioner from Aveeno – click here to order.

2.  Burt’s Bees is offering a free sample of their new line of natural toothpaste – click here to request a 0.5oz free sample.

3. A sample-sized laundry detergent can be very convenient when traveling. The packaging and size is perfect for those quick washes you need to do on the go.  Here are a couple of free laundry detergent samples:

• Free sample of Tide with Febreeze – click here to request your free sample.

• Free Purex Complete 3-in-1 laundry sheet – click here to request your free sample. (Update: if this one doesn’t work at first try again. It seems that they are having server issues.)

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