Today’s Aloha Friday Photo was taken by Bruce Allie from the Waikiki Prince Hotel. Bruce tells me that he took this photo while staying there in 2008. Then a few months later he moved to Hawaii permanently.

Mahalo to Bruce for sharing his sunset photo with us.

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Hilton Waikoloa Village on the Kohala Coast of Hawaii’s Big Island is a massive resort.  How big is it? The resort sprawls over 62 beautiful oceanfront acres. That’s big!

Some folks describe the Hilton Waikoloa Village as Disney-esque with the tram and boat rides that transport guests throughout the resort. Though we found it fairly walkable from one end to the other. Of course the tropical landscaping and corridors of artwork and artifacts certainly provide eye candy as you move about.

Location

This Hilton resort is located about 30 minutes north of Kona airport in Waikoloa Beach Resort. We really love this spot on Hawaii Island and highly recommend it as a great place to stay on the Big Island. The shops, free entertainment, great restaurants and Hawaiian history are some of the reasons that Waikoloa Beach Resort is an excellent base for a Hawaii vacation.

Amenities

Hilton Waikoloa Village’s large area lends space for all sorts of water sports. One natural feature is the large salt water lagoon at the heart of the resort. The lagoon water is quite calm, making it a sheltered spot for kids to play. The lagoon is a great place to try kayaking, stand-up paddle boarding and snorkeling. (One recommendation to share that we learned the hard way is that snorkeling visibility is best in the morning.)

Water fun at the Hilton Waikoloa Village salt water lagoon

On the southern end of the lagoon, you’ll find the Dolphin Learning Center where you can watch them swim and play. If you really want to get close to the dolphins you can book an experience with Dolphin Quest. We didn’t have the time to experience Dolphin Quest here, but we have enjoyed swimming with dolphins on Oahu with Dolphin Quest.

There’s pools around every corner at Hilton Waikoloa Village. Some pools have waterslides and one has a lazy river attached. (Another recommendation is to make sure you get a wristband so that you can use all the pool amenities. We learned this the hard way, too. No one explained the wristband requirement or how to get one. We literally only had enough time for one chance for a run down the waterslide, but the pool attendant rudely refused to let us go down, even though we could show her our room key.)

Kona Pool at the Hilton Waikoloa Village

Lounge chairs were easy to find throughout the resort. We liked the fact that beach cabanas for two were available to guests at no additional charge. The cabanas are available on a first come, first served basis so if you see one open, snag it.

Other nice amenities in this village are a spa, wedding chapel, tennis courts, shops, convention space and loads of restaurants including one of our Big Island favorites, Kamuela Provision Company.

Rooms

The rooms were spacious with a sitting area, desk space, lanai (balcony) and a walk-in closet. Some of the in-room amenities include a small refrigerator, coffee maker and tropical toiletries created by the spa.

Our room in the Lagoon Tower of Hilton Waikoloa Village

The bed was very comfortable and the linens seemed fresh and luxurious.

I don’t know if we were unlucky with our room or not, but we felt like our room needed refurbishing. The sofa and carpet were noticeably soiled and stained.

Our room was located in the Lagoon Tower with a view of the lagoon. On the way to our room we could tell that sections of the Lagoon Tower had ah-mazing ocean views. From the looks of it, parts of the Ocean Tower have excellent ocean views, too.

Luau

The onsite luau, Legends of the Pacific, is excellent. The food and entertainment are very high quality. Some things I look for in a luau are traditional Hawaiian foods, imu ceremony and a fire knife dancer. Legends of the Pacific definitely ticked all those boxes.

We thought the luau staff was particularly friendly and helpful even though gratuity is included in the price.

Legends of the Pacific offers guests the option to upgrade to Ali’i seating for $26 more. We think this option is worth doing for the relaxed table service and better seating near the stage.

Fireknife Dancer at Hilton Waikoloa Village Legends of the Pacific Luau

See all our photos from the Legends of the Pacific luau.

Video Tour

Andy captured some excellent video to tour you around the Hilton Waikoloa Village.

(Email subscribers: click here to watch this Hilton Waikoloa Village video tour.)

Final Bits and Pieces

- We only stayed at Hilton Waikoloa Village for two nights, which really didn’t do it justice. We barely got to scrape the surface of the resort amenities.

- With rates starting at $199, this resort offers pretty good value for money.

- I think families traveling with kids would particularly enjoy this resort. That being said, there’s enough relaxation and romance for adult guests.

- For more photos, see our collection from our stay at Hilton Waikoloa Village.

Mahalo to Hilton Waikoloa Village for hosting our stay.

Have you stayed at Hilton Waikoloa Village? How was your stay?

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A short drive to Keanae Peninsula is definitely worth the diversion off the Road to Hana. The paved drive down to this peninsula leads you to the ocean’s edge for amazing views of the Hana coast.

You’ll find the turn to Keanae Peninsula on the ocean (makai) side of the Road to Hana between mile markers 16 and 17. (It’s closest to mile marker). The turn is at a the bend of a hair pin curve, so drive slowly so you don’t miss the turn.

View Larger Map

I’ve been to Keanae Peninsula in both morning and afternoon sun. I think it’s particularly beautiful during afternoon sun, but stop when ever you can – especially if the weather is sunny.

I’d also like to note that there’s a banana bread stand, Aunty Sandy’s,  in Keanae that’s known for serving some of the best banana bread on the island. I wish I could speak from experience about how good it tastes, however it’s always been closed when I’ve been there. I guess I’ll have to keep returning in the hopes that the banana bread stand is open.

Have you been to Keanae Peninsula? How was your experience.

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Vanilla (orchid) growing on a hapu'u fern

Vanilla has the reputation for being, well, somewhat bland, but did you know that vanilla is quite a fascinating plant? Vanilla is actually an orchid that only blooms for one day. If the orchid is to produce a vanilla bean, it must very carefully hand pollenated on that one day of blooming.  I learned these interesting facts while visiting the Hawaiian Vanilla Company for lunch and a tour.

Though learning about vanilla is interesting in itself, the owner Jim Reddekopp weaves a family love story into his presentation about vanilla and how he came to farm it.  Jim and his wife Tracey were living on Oahu with their first two children when they decided that before they had more kids, they wanted to raise their children on a farm. Soon after, they decided to more to Hawaii Island’s verdant Hamakua Coast to start the US’s first (and I believe only) vanilla farm. Jim and Tracey now have five children that he jokes are on a work to eat program.

Jim Reddekopp prepares a vanilla-infused appetizer.

Jim Reddekopp does not hied his passion for his family and vanilla. The two are clearly intertwined. It was inspirational to hear how the Reddekopps grew their farm dream into a viable small business that currently employees nine people. How inspirational was it? Well, on the drive back to Waikoloa, Andy and I started daydreaming and brainstorming what sort of farm we could start in Hawaii.

We enjoyed a very tasty vanilla-infused, three-course lunch as part of the Hawaiian Vanilla Experience ($39/adult and $15/child ages 4 to 12) followed by a tour of the farm. Almost every part of the lunch incorporated vanilla in creative and unusual ways. For example, the roasted potatoes were seasoned in a vanilla southwest spice. I certainly learned by tasting that vanilla is not just for desserts.

Vanilla was added to each part of this savory lunch.

After lunch, we took a tour of a vanilla farm “field”. There, we looked closer at the type of environment and tender loving care that vanilla farming requires.

Vanilla Plant

The Hawaiian Vanilla Company  is located in lovely old timber building that originally housed a coffee mill in the 1920s. It’s roughly half way between Hilo and Kona. We drove there from Waikoloa Beach Resort in about an hour. It’s quite a scenic drive, too. (See this map for directions.) If you’re in this area, you might want to consider also visiting Akaka Falls, Waipio Valley lookout and if time permits, Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden.

Hawaiian Vanilla Company offers other tours and tastings in addition to this lunch tour we enjoyed. Tour reservations are strongly recommended. You can book by calling 1-877-771-1771.

Having lunch and farm touring at Hawaiian Vanilla Company was far more than a vanilla experience.

—

Mahalo to the Hawaiian Vanilla Company for hosting our tour.

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Mahalo to Lisa Eichinger for sharing her photo of Ehukai Beach Park. This North Shore Oahu spot is where the famous Banzai Pipeline surfing spot is.

For such a popular beach park, notice how pristine and peaceful this beach looks. Lisa definitely found a beautiful scene to share with us.

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*  Congratulations to Four Seasons Resort Lanai Lodge at Koele for making the top 10 list of US hotels by U.S. News & World Report. The Lodge secured the second highest ranking. We at Go Visit Hawaii love the Lodge at Koele as you can see from our review. Pssst! Here’s a secret – it’s one of the top luxury values in all of Hawaii. With their third night free offer, rates start at just $207 per night!

*  Do you have a favorite Hawaiian Island, beach, hotel, luau or activity that you think is tops? GoHawaii.About.com wants your nominations!

*  By popular demand, the folks at JetLev Hawaii contacted me to let me know they’re extending the special $199 rate for a limited time. So, if you didn’t get a chance to take advantage of the JetLev Groupon we mentioned, you can call Eric at 808-393-0153 and ask for the $199 rate.

*  United Continental plans to launch nonstop service between Washington Dulles (IAD) and Honolulu (HNL) in June per this report.

*  Ala Moana Hotel near Waikiki is getting into Super Bowl 46 spirit with a special offer. After the game, the folks at Ala Moana Hotel will offer a special rate that’s the combined score. That’ll make you cheer for a defensive struggle. This special rate will be valid for stays between March 1 and April 15, 2012.  Read more about this special offer at www.AlaMoanaHotel.com/46.

*  Aqua Aloha Surf & Spa in Waikiki is offering a great rate of $85 per night plus free daily continental breakfast. For this Book Now Save Later deal, you must book by February 16 for stays between March 12 and June 21, 2012. Note that this deal is not available between April 30 and May 4.

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Coming soon, visitors will be able to book USS Arizona Memorial tickets in advance. This change could significantly reduce visitor wait times and help you make the most of your Oahu vacation time.

Tickets will still be available on a first come, first served basis for walk-in visitors. In this KHON report, Eileen Martinez, Chief of Interpretation for the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center, says that 50% of tickets will be available for walk-in visitors.

Though tickets will continue to be free to all visitors, a fee of $1.50 per ticket  will be charged for the convenience of booking ahead.

The new ticketing process opens for bookings on February 16 for tours beginning on March 1. The system will allow visitors to book up to three months in advance.

When this new system is implemented on February 16,  visitors will be able to book online at www.recreation.gov or by calling 1-877-444-6777.

I’m attempting to embed the KHON video about this story however, I won’t know until after publishing if the code works. If the video is not showing, you can view the video, at this link.

I’ll need to revise my tips for visiting the USS Arizona Memorial to include this new ticket change. In the mean time, do check out the advice to make the most of your visit.

Mahalo to Dave Soule for bringing this news item to my attention.

What do you think of this ticketing change?

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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.

Aloha Friday Photo shared by Dave on October 22, 2010

Today marks our second year of Aloha Friday Photos on Go Visit Hawaii. Can you believe it?

It’s my honor and pleasure to share your Hawaii vacation photos each Friday. You capture great photos, but more than that, you also share your memories that transport us back to Hawaii with a smile.

Many thanks for sharing two years worth of photos with us. Keep’em comin’! If you’ve not yet shared a photo, see how to submit yours for Aloha Friday Photos.

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Today’s Aloha Friday Photo comes to us from Kathy Riffey of Baltimore, Maryland. She took this photo near Hana on Maui.

The detail of this scene really captures my attention. There’s the swirling ocean waves pounding against the eroded lava rocks. Though the black sand beach is small, it’s such a deep shade of charcoal. Another attention grabber is the tenacious shrubs and plants that thrive in the craggy cliffs. This photo shows just one of the many amazing views from the Road to Hana.

Mahalo to Kathy Riffey for sharing her Maui vacation photo with us!

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Though we’re right smack dab in the middle of Winter, let’s take a seat in this sunny chairadise at the Hilton Waikoloa Village on Hawaii’s Big Island. Who’s the lucky person you’d have sitting beside of you?

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Colorful lantana growing along Kauai's Kalalau Trail

* Disney’s Aulani Resort is offering a Spring special of 6th night free and complimentary continental breakfast each day during your stay. See all the details here.

* Aqua’s Kauai Beach Resort is offering rates as low as $159 including daily breakfast buffet, but you must book before January 31 and complete your stay by December 31, 2012.

* Speaking of Kauai, Hawaiian Airlines has put Kauai fares on sale for travel between now and March 14 and again from April 24 through June 8, 2012. Fares from the Bay area start from $363. For this sale, you must book by January 31.

* JetBlue is teaming up with Hawaiian Airlines to make connections easy. Per JetBlue’s website, “Transfer from JetBlue to Hawaiian’s service at Los Angeles (LAX). Beginning June 4th, transfer to Hawaiian’s new non-stop service to Honolulu at New York (JFK).” Read more about this partnership on Smarter Travel.

* Do you want to make this Valentine’s Day extra special with your spouse? Outrigger Resorts is offering free vow renewals across resorts in all the major islands. Participating resorts are Kapalua Villas Maui, Keauhou Beach Resorts on Hawaii’s Big Island, Outrigger Kiahuna Plantation on Kauai and Outrigger Reef on the Beach in Oahu. Andy and I renewed our vows at Outrigger Reef on the Beach in 2009 and it was a lovely ceremony.

* If you’ll be staying in Waikiki, check out the special farm to table prix fixe menus at  and Sansei Seafood Restaurant on Wednesdays and d.k. Steak House on Thursdays. They’re great values for four-course dinners under $50.

* What’s the average room rate in the state of Hawaii? According to the latest report, the rate is $199.63 which is up 7% over the same time period last year. Occupancy is also up by 2.7% overall. Hawaii’s tourism recovery appears to be well on the mend.

* Have you seen the movie The Decendants? This award-nominated movie was partly filmed in Kauai and is expected to boost tourism per TheGardenIsland.com.

* Will Kauai’s historic Coco Palms Resort ever be revived? Here’s the most recent news about Coco Palms that doesn’t sound very encouraging.

* The USPS offers five new Hawaii themed postcard stamp with Aloha shirt designs.

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With some help from our friends at the Maui Visitor’s Bureau, we’re listing the top festivals and events for Maui Nui – Maui, Lanai and Molokai. As you can see, there are plenty of excellent celebrations and events throughout the year.

JANUARY

Hyundai Tournament of Champions
PGA Tour champions from the previous year compete in this televised, season opening, golf tournament at Kapalua Resort’s stunning Plantation Course for a $5,600,000 purse. www.pgatour.com/hyundai This event is usually scheduled for the first full weekend in January after New Year’s Day.

FEBRUARY

Great Maui Whale Festival
This celebration honoring humpback whales features special events and eco-activities all month, including The Great Whale Count, sponsored by the Pacific Whale Foundation. The Parade of Whales and Whale Day Celebration offer live entertainment, a craft fair and food booths at Kalama Park, Kīhei. www.mauiwhalefestival.org. In 2012, World Whale Day is scheduled for February 18.

MARCH

Haʻīkū Hoʻolaulea & Flower Festival
This event celebrates rural life and benefits local youth education programs. Enjoy lei making demonstrations, a floral design contest, bake sale, arts and crafts show, farmers’ market, historical displays, games and live entertainment. In 2012, this event is slated for March 31.

APRIL

Celebration of the Arts
This annual event pays tribute to the people, arts and traditions of Hawaiʻi, hosted by The Ritz-Carlton, Kapalua. Enjoy hula performances, workshops in Hawaiian cultural topics and crafts. A Hawaiian lūʻau with traditional foods, music and hula highlight Easter weekend. www.celebrationofthearts.org 2012 dates TBA.

Annual East Maui Taro Festival
Hāna’s annual cultural event celebrates Hawaiʻi’s traditional food staple with an all-day festival featuring live music, hula, arts and crafts, Hawaiian games and food booths, plus a taro pancake breakfast. www.tarofestival.org In 2012, this event will be held April 21.

 
MAY

The Fairmont Kea Lani Maui May Day Celebration
Held at The Fairmont Kea Lani in Wailea, this event features floral, feather, seed and kukui nut lei displays as well as Hawaiian entertainment. www.fairmont.com/kealani Lei Day is always on May 1.

Annual Maui Onion Festival
Kāʻanapali pays tribute to the Maui Onion, known worldwide for its sweet, mild flavor. Enjoy a farmers’ market, chefs cooking demos, professional recipe competition, Maui onion-eating contests for adults and kids, and lots of food and music at Whalers Village. www.whalersvillage.com/onionfestival.htm In 2012, the festivities will culminate on May 5.

Molokai’s Ka Hula Piko Festival
Celebrate the birth of hula, Hawaiʻi’s traditional dance, with chant and lectures based on an annual cultural theme. Experience entertainment, food and crafts by the people of Molokaʻi. The festival is held at Pāpōhaku Beach Park in Kaluakoʻi, Molokaʻi. www.molokaievents.com In 2012, this event is planned for May 3 – 5.

JUNE

Maui Film Festival at Wailea
Hawaiian culture meets the big screen at this annual film festival in Wailea. Film premieres are set-up outdoors at Wailea Golf Club’s driving range and indoors at the Maui Arts & Cultural Center in Kahului. www.mauifilmfestival.com In 2012, this event is scheduled for June 13 – 17.

Kapalua Wine & Food Festival
World-renowned winemakers and Hawaiʻi’s hottest chefs are showcased throughout Kapalua Resort.
Attend seminars on wine, culinary trends and gourmet dinners, including The Grand Tasting and
Seafood Festival. www.kapalua.com 2012 dates TBA.

JULY

4th of July Fireworks
Lahaina Town puts on an Independence Day celebration including food, entertainment and a great fireworks display.

Makawao Rodeo & Paniolo Parade
Over the fourth of July weekend, watch competitors ride and rope for top prizes; enjoy country music and dancing. The Paniolo Parade opens the event along Baldwin Avenue in Makawao. www.visitmaui.com

Annual Lānaʻi Pineapple Festival
Lānaʻi honors the pineapple plantation days with an all-day celebration. Enjoy live entertainment, local food and crafts, pineapple eating and cooking contests at Dole Park on Lānaʻi. www.lanaipineapplefestival.com 2012 date TBA.

SEPTEMBER

Maui Marathon & Half Marathon
This racecourse from Kahului to Kāʻanapali is recognized as one of the 10 most scenic marathons in the USA. Fitness Expo, Carbo Luau, Front Street Mile and 5K Fun Run/Walk precede over the weekend in Kāʻanapali. www.mauimarathonhawaii.com This event is scheduled September 16 in 2012.

Maui County Fair
Enjoy carnival games, rides, entertainment, local food, arts and crafts, a parade, exhibits and orchid
display. www.mauifair.com In 2012, this event will be held September 27 – 30.

OCTOBER

Annual XTERRA World Championship
The premier off-road, extreme multi-sport competition hosted on Maui features an ocean swim, mountain bike ride and off-road trail run. It attracts an international field of the world’s finest triathletes to Kapalua Resort on Sunday. The XTERRA Kapalua 5K/10K Trail Runs, open to all, kicks off competition on Saturday. www.xterraplanet.com In 2012, this event is scheduled for October 28.

NOVEMBER

Annual Hula o Nā Keiki
Maui’s only children’s solo hula and chant competition is hosted at the Kāʻanapali Beach Hotel. The weekend features workshops on chant and hula, arts and crafts displays, delicious local food and live entertainment. www.hawaiiculture.com In 2012, this event is scheduled for November 9 – 11.

Maui Invitational Basketball Tournament
Hawaiʻi’s Chaminade University hosts NCAA-sanctioned top college teams in this exciting, annual, pre-season tournament at the Lāhainā Civic Center. www.mauiinvitational.com In 2012, this event is scheduled for November 19 – 21.

DECEMBER

Nā Mele o Maui
A sensational showcase of Hawaiʻi’s language, music and art through the talents of Maui Nui youth. Maui County students from kindergarten through 12th grade sing songs in the Hawaiian language in competition. High school students exhibit original juried artwork with Hawaiian theme. www.kaanapaliresort.com 2012 date TBA.

Holiday Lighting of the Banyan Tree
Lāhainā’s landmark Banyan Tree lights up for the holiday season while choirs sing carols. Enjoy holiday arts and crafts in the park, a real Snow Zone and entertainment. This event is normally held on the first weekend in December. In 2012, it will be on December 1 and 2. www.visitlahaina.com

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If your vacation doesn’t coincide with events from the above list, chances are there’s something going on. To check for special events in Maui Nui, click on the appropriate island link:

• Maui
• Lanai
• Molokai 

On the right side, find the Vacation Directory box. Then, click on the Events tab. Enter your desired dates and press go for results.

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If you’re hankering to go to Oahu, but not sure when to go, perhaps you’d like to go during one of the many excellent festivals. To help you, I’ve created this handy dandy list of Oahu festivals – which mixes in input from the nice folks at the Oahu Visitor’s Bureau, plus my opinion.

Honolulu Festival 
March 2-4 in 2012
Honolulu Festival  celebrates cultures from across the Pacific with art, music, dance and crafts. The event culminates with a Grand Parade in Waikiki followed by fireworks.

Waikiki SPAM® Jam
April 28 in 2012
The Waikiki SPAM® Jam is an exciting annual street festival that takes place on Kalakaua Avenue in Waikiki. The event celebrates Hawaii’s love of SPAM® and features a variety of Honolulu’s finest restaurants serving up SPAM®-inspired creations. Two entertainment stages provide non-stop entertainment ranging from hula dancers to local musicians, and merchandise vendors sell SPAM®-themed items and Hawaiian crafts. Proceeds from the event benefit the Hawaii Food Bank.

Mele Mei
Entire month of May
Mele Mei celebrates the unique music of Hawaii with workshops, concert performance and award ceremonies.

Lantern Floating Hawai‘i
Memorial Day, May 28 in 2012
Every year on Memorial Day, thousands of people gather at Magic Island at Ala Moana Beach Park to honor ancestors and loved ones who have passed away. At sundown, more than 3,000 candlelit lanterns are set afloat on the ocean, a traditional Buddhist rite originating in Japan. The ceremony is based on the theme “Many Rivers, One Ocean,” and serves to honor those who have sacrificed their lives in war, pay respect to ancestors and loved ones who have passed away, and pray for a harmonious and peaceful future. Lantern Floating Hawaii also features live entertainment by local and international musicians, as well as inspiring speeches.

Pan-Pacific Festival
June 8 – 10 in 2012
The Pan-Pacific Festival is a three-day international cultural celebration that features a weekend of Pacific Rim cultural performances, demonstrations, hula, food, hoolaulea (block party). The event culminates with a colorful parade with thousands of participants in lively costumes marching down Kalakaua Avenue in Waikiki.

King Kamehameha Floral Parade
June 9 in 2012
This colorful celebration honors the reign of King Kamehameha, who was responsible for uniting the Hawaiian Islands under his rule in 1795. The King Kamehameha Floral Parade extends from Iolani Palace to Kapiolani Park and features brightly decorated floats, energetic marching bands and traditional pa‘u riders who represent a Hawaiian royal court on horseback.

July 4th/Independence Day Holiday
July 4
Hawaii celebrates Independence day with excellent fireworks shows on both July 3 and 4. For an idea of what this year’s celebration may entail, see this comprehensive round up of Oahu July 4th fireworks and celebrations from 2011.

Prince Lot Hula Festival
July 21 in 2012
The Prince Lot Hula Festival is held in the beautiful Moanalua Gardens, features hula halau (troupes) gracing the hula mound for spectators to enjoy. The festival showcases Native Hawaiian culture through crafts, kapa making, lauhala weaving, lomilomi massage, traditional Hawaiian games, and more. 

Duke’s OceanFest
Late August (Specific Dates TBA)
Duke’s OceanFest, a weeklong festival, features a variety of exciting water sports competitions, including longboard surfing, surf polo, swimming, standup paddling, and other events that pay tribute to the surfing and swimming legend Duke Kahanamoku. The festivities culminate with the Duke’s Statue lei draping ceremony on August 24, the anniversary of his birthday.

Hawai‘i Food & Wine Festival
September
Following a successful inaugural year, the second annual Hawaii Food & Wine Festival will once again take place in Honolulu in September 2012. The festival includes culinary-focused events and evening receptions featuring dishes prepared by an all-star lineup of chefs from Hawaii and around the world, using locally sourced ingredients. The Hawaii Food & Wine Festival is co-chaired by chefs Roy Yamaguchi and Alan Wong and serves to showcase the state’s bounty of produce and proteins and highlight the islands’ return to a sustainable eco-system of agriculture, environment and economy

Aloha Festivals
September 15 and September 22 in 2012
On Oahu, the Aloha Festival celebrates Hawaii’s music, dance and history, and is intended to preserve the islands’ unique traditions. Festivities on Oahu include a Waikiki Ho‘olaulea on September 15 and a floral parade on September 22.

Hawai‘i International Film Festival
Spring Showcase is April 6-12 in 2012; Fall Showcase is in October
The Hawaii International Film Festival is dedicated to the advancement of understanding and cultural exchange among the peoples of Asia, the Pacific and North America through the medium of film. HIFF showcases independent feature films and is held at the Signature Dole Cannery Theatres each spring and fall. Expect the very best and latest in independent and global cinema

Vans Triple Crown of Surfing
November 12 – December 20 in 2012
The Vans Triple Crown of Surfing returns to the North Shore of Oahu for the men’s series and women’s Roxy Pro at Sunset Beach. Kicking off with the Op Pro at Haleiwa, the series continues with the O’Neill World Cup of Surfing and women’s Roxy Pro at Sunset Beach, and lastly the Billabong Pipeline Masters at the famous Banzai Pipeline. Oahu’s North Shore is home to these final events on the Association of Surfing Professionals (ASP) calendar that will crown surfing’s new world champion

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If you can’t include any of these festivals we’ve mentioned, don’t worry, there’s almost always a festival or celebration of some kind happening on Oahu. To find out what special events might be going on during your Oahu vacation, visit GoHawaii.com/Oahu and use the Vacation Directory from the right column. Be sure to click on the Events tab first, then enter your desired dates.

Have you been to any of these Oahu festivals?

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Kris from Illinois sent in today’s Aloha Friday Photo. Kris took this photo while he was at the Maui Photo Festival last August. More specifically, he was on a photo session in a doors-off helicopter tour.

This photo gives a great aerial view of Kaanapali Beach – Kris’ favorite beach. Does this photo make you want to swoop into a soft landing on that sandy beach like it does to me?

Kris is a talented photographer who loves to share his Maui photos at Daily Maui Photo. You should check it out.

Mahalo to Kris for sharing his aerial Kaanapali Beach photo!

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Though the Big Island grows Hawaii’s most renowned Kona coffee, Kauai is actually the home to the largest coffee farm in all of Hawaii and the US. Kauai produces approximately 60% of Hawaii’s total coffee crop. Kauai Coffee Company on the southern side of Kauai grows more than 4 million coffee trees over 3,100 acres.

From my visit at Kauai Coffee Company, I had to ask what the difference between Kona coffee and Kauai coffee. I was told that Kauai coffee tends to have more fruit notes and slightly less acidity. The company representative then gave me a wine comparison that further explained the difference – Kona coffee is like a Cabernet while Kauai coffee is more like a Merlot or Pinot Noir.

At Kauai Coffee Company, you can take a self-guided tour , see harvesting and roasting equipment and, best of all, enjoy tasting the varieties that Kauai Coffee Company produces and roasts. Visiting and tasting is completely free. Though, if you are like us, after tasting some of the samples you’ll want to purchase Kauai-grown coffee to take back home.

Located in Kalaheo, Kauai Coffee Company is open every day from 9am to 5pm. (From June 1 – August 31 opening hours are extended to 5:30pm.) For directions, see this map.

I recommend a short stop into Kauai Coffee Company and have listed it as one of the best free activities on Kauai.

Have you tried Kauai coffee or visited Kauai Coffee Company?

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Bird of Paradise in Oahu at Punchbowl

*  Hawaiian Airlines announced that they’re creating a Maui Hub  that will offer improved connections between The Valley Isle and other points within the Hawaiian Islands as well as flights to and from the West Coast. It will be interesting to see how this improves inter-island travel as this hub is implemented.

*  The Polynesian Cultural Center is offering a 10% discount by booking early. For a limited time, visitors who book their reservations ten days out or more will receive a 10% discount off their experience. The “10 Outside 10” special applies to all of PCC’s rich cultural offerings, including their excellent evening show HA: Breath of Life. You can receive this discount via booking directly online.

*  On facebook I posted about a new jet pack water adventure in Oahu that looks like something out of a Jetsons carton. That post about Jetlev seemed to interest a lot of folks. There’s currently a limited time Groupon for this adventure that knocks 50% off the cost to $199. To access this Groupon navigate to Honolulu from here.

Jetlev

*  Another recent facebook posting that garnered quite a bit of interest was this video about scientist discovering humpback whales and dolphins playing together in Hawaii. The video provides photos capturing the playful behavior along with captions of the scientists’ observations.

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The Courtyard King Kamehameha Kona Beach Hotel in Kailua-Kona is set in a location fit for a king, literally. King Kamehameha the Great established one of his royal residences here. As you survey the site, you can see how these grounds would have been chosen with a naturally protected bay. Remains and reconstruction of this royal residence and heiau provide reminders of the site’s importance. (Read more about the history of the Courtyard King Kamehameha Kona Beach Hotel.)

Courtyard King Kamehameha Kona Beach Hotel celebrates this place’s history with artifacts on display in the main corridor. There, they also have a large collection of museum-quality paintings by Herb Kane that depict historic moments and battles in Hawaii. Additionally, their onsite luau reenacts a royal court procession that may have taken place in this very spot.

Location

The Courtyard King Kamehameha Kona Beach Hotel is located in the northern end of the town of Kailua-Kona. The hotel overlooks lovely Kailua Bay. It’s near enough to all the lively action of Kona, but also not smack dab in the middle of it where parking becomes more of a challenge. Navigating in and out of the hotel’s parking lot to other parts of the island is very easy.

That naturally protected bay that once helped sustain King Kamehameha and his people, now provides an ideal spot for swimming, snorkeling, stand up paddle boarding, and more. Kona Boys’ watersports hut is right on site to rent gear and provide lessons. The hotel is set on the only permanent sandy beach in Kailua-Kona, that’s enjoyed by both visitors and locals. It’s also the only hotel in Kailua-Kona that’s set on a beach.

Rooms

The rooms have been recently renovated and impressed us from the start. Though only a 3-star resort, we had a spacious oceanview king room that was nicer than some 4 and 5-star rooms we’ve had in Hawaii. The newly renovated rooms are confortable and well appointed with a large flat-screen TV, sitting area and room to spread out.

The bath had a single sink with an extra large granite countertop providing plenty of space for all our stuff. We liked the tropical-inspired Bath & Body Works toiletries.

Other in-room amenities  include safe, coffee maker with Kona coffee and free wireless internet.

What to Know When You Go

- We were treated to an oceanview room on the fourth floor, however, bear in mind that there are a very limited number of rooms with ocean views.

- Ample onsite parking is available for $10 per day.

- Many restaurants and attractions are located within walking distance.

- All of the boating excursions depart from the dock that’s just steps from the hotel.

- At the moment, there’s not a spa.

- There’s only two onsite restaurants, but many restaurants within walking distance. We thought Honu’s provided a nice spread for a well-priced ($17.95) breakfast buffet.

Video Overview

Andy created this excellent video tour of Courtyard King Kamehameha Kona Beach Hotel.

Overall Impressions

We were impressed with this hotel. It was clean and tidy and included all the basics you need for a great Hawaii Island vacation.

With rates starting at $159 during Hawaii’s high season, this hotel is a bargain.

For additional opinions about this hotel, see TripAdvisor reviews.

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Mahalo to the Big Island Visitors Bureau and Courtyard King Kamehameha Kona Beach Hotel for sponsoring our stay.

Have you stayed at Courtyard King Kamehameha Kona Beach Hotel? How was your stay?

Near Hana, you’ll find an island that will probably peak your curiosity – Alua Island. This island seems to appear out of nowhere, but what surprises me most is that there’s palm trees growing on top.

For years, I had wondered how those palm trees were established. I finally got my question answered as I was on a horseback ride included in my stay at Travaasa Hana.  Lifelong Hana resident Jolynn from Hana Ranch told us that her grandfather and his friends swam out to Alau Island and planted the coconut trees decades ago.

Alau Island is located several hundred yards off the Maui coast just beyond the central part of the town of Hana. To get a great view of Alau Island, turn off of Hana Highway (also known as the Road to Hana) on to Haneoo Road which will loop back around to the Hana Highway. See this Google Map for a detailed view.

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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!

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