One of the hallmarks of a great Hawaiian hotel or resort is the dedication to immersing visitors in local culture and history through creative programs and experiences. On-site activities go a long way in introducing guests, especially younger children, to valuable educational insight that will not only help them understand what makes these islands so special, but also inspire them to return again and again. Because sometimes it takes a little more than just the beautiful scenery.

Known by many as “Hawaii’s Most Hawaiian Hotel,” Kā’anapali Beach Hotel in Maui is a prime example of this philosophy, as it is home to the Kawenaokeao Cultural Center. Here, guests can engage in a wide variety of fun, informative, and—best of all—complimentary classes that run the gauntlet from active and engaging to inspiring and memorable. And some of them will even provide little travelers with far better souvenirs than they’ll find in any shops.

Activities like hula and ukulele lessons and lei-making classes are common throughout the island’s hotels and resorts, but this property goes above and beyond in the depth of experiences and spreading things out so a family’s itinerary can be packed but not overwhelming. The ʻŌlelo program, for example, will teach everyone short, simple letters, words, and phrases, as well as the history of the Hawaiian language and the meanings of some of the islands’ most notable places. Children will also undoubtedly love learning about nature and how people can prevent ocean hazards in the Kilo Moana class, as well as how natural elements have long been used in navigation in the Pānānā experience.

The newest concept, Mo’olelo, takes place on Tuesdays and Fridays and has an all-encompassing purpose. In addition to teaching even more about the local language and traditions, this session also uses Hawaii’s many stories to evoke life lessons and values, hopefully inspiring the guests who take time to explore this exceptional vacation opportunity.

Kā‘anapali Beach Hotel also recently unveiled the Huihui beachfront restaurant, which offers all the views that travelers have come to love when visiting Maui, as well as an extra lesson in enjoying the exceptional regional cuisine.

The post Kā‘anapali Beach Hotel Offers a Family Spring Break Loaded with Culture appeared first on Islands.

The beauty of the adults-only Spring Break concept is that it can take place whenever we want. It doesn’t rely on a school calendar, instead only when we feel like, “You know what? Let’s go on vacation.” And the whole Spring Break aspect of it can apply to any time of year, because that’s the fun of being an adult, right? It’s like eating ice cream for dinner or buying a cake from the grocery store just because. But spring is upon us and it’s time for a break, so why not be traditional? 

Now, it’s just a matter of where, and why not Maui? Hawaii isn’t the most ideal spot for a “quick” getaway, but when the bargain is right, there’s no reason not to say, “Aloha!” The Plantation Inn is proving this point by providing couples with a little extra incentive to come visit between April and June. And that’s on top of the many other reasons like exceptional comfort, modern amenities, and being a very affordable gateway to paradise.

The Deal: Guests who book stays of at least two nights will enjoy a 10 percent discount on rates. That’s extra money for travelers who like to do a lot of shopping on their vacations, and this popular bed and breakfast property is a quick jaunt from Front Street and a wide variety of stores and very fun restaurants.
The Time: The offer is valid on stays between April 1 and June 31, 2023. Outside of that window, The Plantation Inn offers the same deal on visits of seven nights or longer, too.

The post An Intimate Adults-Only Spring Break Experience Awaits at Maui’s Plantation Inn appeared first on Islands.

When a billionaire developer named Takeshi Sekiguchi first set his sights on building a hotel along a deserted stretch of land on Maui’s southwestern coastline, his vision was met with a healthy dose of skepticism.

It was 1985 and, as the story goes, after an adjustment of international exchange rates meant a more favorable yen-to-dollar ratio, Japanese real estate tycoons began snapping up and developing hotels across the Hawaiian Islands. 

But Mr. Sekiguchi wanted to build more than just another hotel. His vision was to create an art- and nature-filled fantasyland capable of transporting anyone who crossed the threshold into the ballerina-pink, open-air foyer and into a world where art, grandiose gardens, and gushing waterfalls could coexist in perfect harmony.

“What he created was a 40-acre botanical garden that was enough for people to see and experience all of Hawaii over a four- or five-night stay,” Grand Wailea Maui‘s Head Landscaper Jim Heid told me on recent tour of the grounds. “It’s a family resort, and the mission was not just to make it an attractive place to stay, but to bring the island of Maui into the property as well.”

By the time the 776-room mega-resort finally opened as a Grand Hyatt Wailea in 1991, Mr. Sekiguchi spent an estimated $600 million on the project—over $1 billion today—in what was then reported as one of the most expensive hotel’s ever built in the U.S.

“Of the $600 million it took to create to create the property, $40 million went to his personal collection of treasured artwork,” Grand Wailea’s Cultural Programming Manager and Leadership Educator Kalei Uwēko’olani said, as we stood admiring one of the nine original bronze Fernando Botero statues just off the lobby. “There was no specific artistic direction when it came to picking the artwork, basically, if he liked it, he bought it.”

Along with a team of skilled architects, designers, and landscapers, ultimately, it was Mr. Sekiguchi’s cultural and spiritual advisors who were instrumental in helping bring his vision to life.

“What Mr. Sekiguchi and his advisors wanted to do was introduce the idea of Ku and Hina traditions, which is basically the Hawaiian version of yin and yang, and together they brought a sense of harmony and balance to the property,” Uwēko’olani explained. “They intentionally designed every inch of the hotel to represent both the male and female energy, and everything was coordinated to bring that sense of harmony and balance ever since.”

After changing hands and hotel brands a few times over the years, the property was finally converted to Grand Wailea Maui, A Waldorf Astoria Resort in 2006; however, Mr. Sekiguchi’s vision has persevered thanks in large part to a dedicated team of stewards like Uwēko’olani and Heid who continue to share the hotel’s fascinating history with guests via their free cultural and garden tours.

Growing up in Southern California, my introduction to the Grand Wailea was through my parents, who planned a family vacation here circa 1992 after my mom read an article calling it one of “best hotels in the world” that year. Beloved by families ever since thanks to the sprawling activity pool replete with a lazy river, waterslides, and even the world’s first and only water elevator, the real draw, my mother told me on our recent visit, was the promise of the fantasy that Mr. Sekiguchi had set out to create, that in her words were like “nothing she’d ever seen before.”

On a recent stay at Grand Wailea this past January, we found a hotel that has now entered the second phase of the largest renovation in its 30-year history. From updated dining outlets, an exclusive club level tower, and soon-to-come exceptional spa concept, here’s what you need to know before booking your next visit.

Something New in the Napua Tower

While the hotel is undergoing renovations across many of the rooms and suites this year, the highly desirable Chapel and Lagoon Wings are already completed, with the Wailea and Molokini Wings not far behind. Still, the experience remains flawless. 

One of the biggest changes thus far is the opening of Napua Tower, which debuted in June. These club level rooms and suites are more modern, and guests have access to a private concierge along with daily tasting and happy hours are the exclusive to Napua Lounge guests.

While we didn’t get to stay in Napua Tower on this visit, I did get a chance to check it out on a tour of the hotel, and the rooms are downright beautiful. Just be prepared to pay up for the additional amenities that come with the club level access if you stay here.

The Gardens and Grounds Still Steal the Show 

My mom and I signed up for both the free garden tour with head landscaper Jim Heid and an amazing cultural tour with Kalei Uwēko’olani, and while I was admittedly a bit reluctant to wake up at 8 am on vacation to take a landscaping tour, it ended up being one of the more entertaining mornings on our trip. 

Heid has been with the property since 2008, and it was clear off the bat that he’s extremely passionate about what he does. As he walked us through the gardens, which are home to more than 600 species of plants, my mom continued pepper him with questions about how and what she could plant that would thrive in her Southern California garden.

We soon learned that the grounds were largely inspired by Mr. Sekiguchi’s native Japan. A symbol of longevity and serenity in Japanese culture, rocks were not only flown in from around the base of Mt. Fuji, but prior to shipping them over, Mr. Sekiguchi had them photographed and meticulously placed to mirror the exact replica of what they looked like on the mountain—if that’s not attention to detail I don’t know what is. 

As we walked the grounds and sampled fresh pineapple plucked straight from the garden, sucked on sugar cane, and nibbled on starfruit, I had newfound appreciation for the work that continued to go in to this beautiful resort, and if you have even the slightest green thumb in you, take this tour. I’m sure you’ll come to appreciate it more, too.

Wellness will Play a Bigger Role

One of the biggest renovation overhauls happening on property right now is to the hotel’s spa, which will reopen as a new concept in a 50,000-sq. ft. space next year. This new “wellness sanctuary” will offer “elevated experiences that reflect a deep reverence for the island’s nature and authentic healing practices steeped in the soul and spirit of Maui.”

In the meantime, a temporary spa has been established in the hotel’s Lagoon Wing and continues to offer all the spa services and massages you could hope for. I had an exceptional Hawaiian LomiLomi massage with an angel of a masseuse named Laurie, and not that she needed it, but my mom loved her age-defying facial which left her skin looking brighter and better than ever.

New and Improved Dining

There are also new dining outlets on property, starting with Botero Lounge in the open-air atrium at the center of the hotel. The lounge’s namesake comes for the nine bronze Fernando Botero statues, all of which have lived on property from the beginning and are part of Mr. Sekiguchi’s private collection. 

With nightly live music and a menu that’s brimming with fresh sushi and specialty cocktails, Botero is easily the most exciting place to post up and people-watch after the sun goes down. 

In Hawaiian, ‘Ikena means view, and this gorgeous indoor-outdoor venue lives up to the name. With views over the Pacific, the buffet and a la carte options are a delight—whatever you do don’t miss the Maui Honey Fried Chicken and Waffles and purple uala latte for some real local flavor.

There’s also a new fast casual market on property called Loulu, which is the all-day cafe serving up everything from delicious breakfast sandwiches, acai bowls, and coffee to pizzas and salads. 

HumuHumu, and Why You Should Request Table 70

By far the best meal we had during our stay was at Humuhumunukunukuāpuaʻa. Better known as HumuHumu, this Hawaiian fusion fine dining restaurant has been mainstay at Grand Wailea for almost 30 years. While not a bad seat in the house, word to the wise, Table 70 is one of the most coveted spots in town, and perfect for groups or special occasions. When it’s not reserved in advance (and if you ask nicely) it’s worth waiting for, especially at sunset. 

Humuhumunukunukuāpuaʻa has been a fixture here since the hotel first opened and is beloved by guests who come year after year to celebrate birthdays and anniversaries. Renovations are starting this spring at Humu, so make sure you check with the hotel before booking so you can plan your visit accordingly.

A Living Legend 

When all is said and done, Grand Wailea will always hold a special place in my family’s heart.

In a way, I’ve grown up with this hotel, and we’ve seen each other through various life stages over the last 30-years. Even with the current multi-year, multi-phase renovations, the vision and the magic that Takeshi Sekiguchi first set out to create are still alive and thriving, and I for one, can’t wait to see what the future holds on my next visit.

The post History is in the Making at the Iconic Grand Wailea Maui appeared first on Islands.

The biggest travel publications and outlets all agree: The Ritz-Carlton Maui, Kapalua, is one of the very best resorts on the planet. But it’s when you realize that each visitor draws a conclusion from totally different elements, that you understand just how special the place is for literally anyone.

Landing on Maui you see the surf and sand beneath your wings and think, “Wow.” For a second you’re Maitland and Hegenberger on the first Hawaiian flight back in 1927, in pure awe. “Maui Wowi,” you think, but hope you didn’t say aloud. There’s nothing like that setting in Minnesota. Nothing like it in at least forty other states for that matter. Tropical warmth, Caribbean blues. I got on the plane shivering in a jacket and got off the plane sweating… in a t-shirt and shorts. 

“Sir, you forgot your jacket,” the flight attendant waved. “No,” I shook my head, disagreeing on semantics. I didn’t “forget” it.

“I’m retiring,” my wife said. “I’m not going back,” my son piled on. “Is this Africa,” my youngest asked, joking but making a solid point. It sure didn’t feel like the rest of the United States, certainly not in winter. It felt like paradise.

You land on the northeast coast of Maui, in Kahului, just inland from some of the island’s most famous and expansive beaches. Helicopters spin up and set down on an airfield next to you, carrying dozens of visitors on adventures over the Road to Hana, the Pacific coastline, and other quests seeking whales, volcanoes, and waterfalls. I looped the island that way on my last visit with Blue Hawaiian Helicopters, and loved it, but it’s not for everyone. My pilot was a little crazy, wanting us to get the best possible views of things I was content to see from “a bit further away.” It’s certainly the most efficient way to experience the Road to Hana, but helicopter rides are no substitute for the fun you can have on Maui on the ground.

There’s also no substitute for putting your toes in the sand and feeling the bathtub-warm water circle your ankles. Whales are a whole lot bigger from boats at sea level, turtles a lot more realistic swimming around you, and golf holes a lot more difficult when you have to actually hit shots on the courses you see. I’ve watched the Sentry Tournament of Champions annually—held at Kapalua—and always thought it looked pretty easy, especially with those scores. 

Let’s just say things are definitely deceiving from a distance—and my scorecard looked a lot different.

Head West

Leaving the airport most people head to the west coast—south to most of the resorts in Kihei and Wailea, or northwest to Kaanapali and Kapalua. That drive is a beautiful one, with mountains and fields around you splitting wide open to a panoramic ocean view. These are volcanic islands, so the elevation changes are no surprise. What is a surprise is how many people on a daily average have the same genius idea we did—to go to Hawaii in the winter.

We took a shuttle because there was a shortage of rental cars. Seems every one of those rental cars was at the beach the day we arrived. That said, the further north we went the less traffic there was, and by the time we passed the hotels and golf courses at Kaanapali, it started to feel less touristy and more luxurious.

The beaches were as plentiful but less crowded, traffic nonexistent, there were more rainforest settings and less desert. It was already feeling quite special by the time we turned left and entered the paradise that is The Ritz-Carlton Maui, Kapalua.

Welcome to the Ritz

Upon arrival, you’re greeted like you’re the president, or someone of importance. They thank you for being there, which just seems completely backwards. (No, mahalo to you!) Steps into their newly renovated and expanded lobby and Alaloa Lounge, you are longing to go into a dead sprint to the edge of the glass-walled balcony in front of you because you want to see it—you want to see it all. And when you do, what you see just blows your mind. Beneath you there’s a literal cascade of swimming pools—too many different bodies of water to count—and beyond that, the Pacific Ocean, far as the eye can see. 

“Maui Wowi, indeed,” I think. Though my son’s eye roll tells me I actually said that one. Oops.

“The work is never done here,” explains Rebecca Pang, the resort’s Director of Public relations, as she gestures toward the new oceanfront suites going in with firepits and private pools. “If you’d have come a year from now,” she smiles and laughs, as if I wouldn’t read into that as an invitation. “What this place is today is more amazing than it was 10 years ago. And what it will be 10 years from now…” Her sentence trails off but doesn’t need to be finished.

That’s the beauty of Hawaii, though. It doesn’t matter when you come, it’s always special. Doesn’t matter what amenities your hotels have, it’s always amazing. If you go to Hawaii and go home disappointed, I can’t relate to you. Every day on any and every island on four separate trips I’ve found something special I haven’t found anywhere else.

On Maui, specifically at this Ritz, I found a hotel full of big rooms and bigger suites with incredible views on any/every side. Our adjacent rooms connected perfectly into a 2BR Suite—more than big enough for six people—with multiple balconies and ocean views. “This is the perfect family setup,” my wife said. “You need to put that in your story.” As hotel suite arrangements go—in my experience at least—this was definitely Top 5.

A short stroll down the hill, there’s a cove with rock walls on both sides and a beautiful stretch of beach in between. The evening we arrived it was empty, save for some crabs and waves. “Don’t say it, Dad,” my son threatened, standing in the soft sand beside me. “Wasn’t even thinking it,” I replied.

“Uh huh.”

Okay, so maybe I was. Maui has that effect on me. When we returned to the beach to watch the sunrise the next morning, we found the cove even glassier, the waves even bigger, a rainbow-filled sky and turtles in the water. We caught a setting so pristine that one of my pictures was requested by multiple magazines.

“Amazing picture,” I heard time and time again. “Had nothing to do with the photographer,” I’ve maintained, because it’s true. “That’s all Hawaii.”

Favorite of the Pros

The Ritz-Carlton’s beach is tucked below a 54-acre Pacific perch with a plethora of pools, surrounded by one golf course—Arnold Palmer’s Bay Course—and just down the street from another, Coore and Crenshaw’s Plantation Course. 

Every year the PGA Tour kicks off the new season from Hawaii, bringing all the winners from the past year to Maui to celebrate victories past and victories still to come. The biggest names in the game have played and won there—from Justin Thomas to Jordan Spieth and Jon Rahm this year—and the course features some of the most spectacular views on earth, with the Pacific and/or the island of Molokai visible from every single hole on the course.

You hear player after player talk about what a treat it is to be there, to stay and play there—these guys who can stay and play anywhere—and it brings to mind how Pro Bowlers always felt in the NFL back when the Pro Bowl was held in Hawaii. There’s just something special about Hawaii. There’s just something special about playing in Hawaii.

Bill Coore and Ben Crenshaw built the Plantation Course out of former pineapple fields, their first of many collaborations since. They tried hard to bring their shared love of classic architecture from the mainland to Hawaii and did their best to work with elements not found on many classic courses—like lava rocks and rain forests. It’s been ranked in America’s Public Top 100 since the first list came out in 2003 and currently sits in Golf Digest’s Top 25, fresh off a massive renovation in 2019.

At $350 for 18 holes with cart, this isn’t an everyday round for most, but neither is it an everyday experience. The course is as challenging as it is scenic, with massive elevation changes affected by both wind and warmth, plenty of blind shots, and Tour-level playing conditions and speeds most seldom get to play with. Every trusted source considers it a Top 5 Public Play in Hawaii and if all of those factors sound “worth it” to you, you’re unlikely to be disappointed.

Lacking in Nothing

The Ritz-Carlton Maui, Kapalua, has 466 rooms and suites nice enough for the pickiest person and big enough for the biggest family. Its six restaurants range in offerings from the best breakfast any of my family has had in America—at Ulana Terrace—to a tasty dinner menu at The Banyan Tree with a variety of indoor/outdoor seating settings (including fire pits), sprawling ocean views and one of the nicest managers I’ve ever met. 

There are trails, basketball and tennis courts, water sports of every sort, a grocery and gift shop and a spa, plus more restaurants on-site and even more—like the Sea House Restaurant—just a quick and complimentary shuttle ride away.

“Let me know if you need anything else,” Rebecca told us, the smile never leaving her face, knowing full well that we’d be stupid to ask for anything more. “Thank you for coming to visit us,” she said. She, too, had it all backwards, and this time I couldn’t let it go. 

“Thank you for letting us BE here.”

Mahalo, Ritz-Carlton Kapalua. Mahalo, Maui. I can’t mahalo you enough.

The post For Family, Luxury, and Authenticity, the Ritz-Carlton Maui, Kapalua, Always Delivers appeared first on Islands.

For family fun or adults-only romance, few resorts do it all on Maui quite like Westin Maui Resort and Spa, Kā‘anapali. In fact, there’s so much to do on-property and within walking distance that it’s totally understandable if a family doesn’t take a day or two to explore the rest of the island. After all, when there’s a snow cone truck by the pool, good luck getting the kids to want to be anywhere else. Same goes for parents and the Lānai lounge, where the talented bar staff is constantly creating new cocktails.

Now, though, guests have no reason to not explore. The Westin Maui Adventure Package is a new offering that is the result of a collaboration with Hawaii-based Shaka Guide, a tour company and storytelling app.

The Deal: Visitors can book a room in the Ocean Tower with a 10 percent discount and receive a $60 daily resort credit, but the fun begins with Shaka Guide’s six self-guided tours. Everything from the beautiful parks to the best shopping can be “discovered” through this curated program, all while the app’s audio tours make it seem like the island’s best guide is riding shotgun. 

The Dates: Booking for the Adventure Package is already underway for stays through March 29, 2023.

The post Westin Maui Resort and Spa, Kā‘anapali, Wants Guests to Choose their Own Adventures appeared first on Islands.

Snorkeling in Maui offers some of the best opportunities for swimming with sea turtles. If you’re interested in a deeper understanding of the marine biology of Hawaii, join Ocean Ramsey’s research team in Oahu. Anini Beach on the island of Kauai provides snorkelers with access to the Rhe Honoiki reef, the largest coral reef in Hawaii. And if you want to walk away from your trip with a one-of-a-kind experience, swim at night with reef manta rays on Hawaii’s Big Island.

It doesn’t matter which island you choose. If you’re snorkeling in Hawaii, you are sure to enjoy your underwater adventure. Here are the best places for snorkeling around the Hawaiian Islands, plus the specific sea life you can expect to see below the surface.

Fringing Reef—Molokai

Get here by boat or kayak and prepare to be wowed by the longest fringing reef in Hawaii, which attracts everything from hawksbill turtles to spotted eagle rays. Plan your trip during whale-watching season (December-March) when thousands of whales show up and serenade each other (and you).

Where is it? South coast of Molokai

How to experience it? Let Snorkel Molokai take care of everything, from the boat ride and gear to special tips and instruction, if necessary.

Who is it suitable for? All levels

Turtle Town—Maui

On Maui’s southern coastline, a series of underwater lava formations, created by eruptions of submarine volcanoes, makes a cozy home for sea turtles. Just remember: look, but don’t touch; these guys are endangered. Angelfish, moray eels, and octopus are an added bonus.

Where is it? At Maluaka Beach, south of Kihei, near the Makena Beach and Golf Club.

How to experience it? A tour company like Maui Snorkeling will take visitors there for a 5-hour morning adventure. A heck of a way to start a day.

Who is it suitable for? All levels

Kealakekua Bay State Historical Park—Big Island

Hawaii’s Big Island offers numerous snorkeling spots. Kayak along the calm waters of Kealakekua Bay while keeping your eyes peeled for Hawaiian spinner dolphins; they like to put on a show. Once you reach the protected shoreline of Ka’awaloa, hop out and snorkel alongside turtles, eels, reef sharks, and rays.

Bring a picnic lunch and sit a spell near the monument of British explorer Captain James Cook; however, if you kayak on your own you are not allowed to dock on shore.

Where is it? 12-miles south of Historic Kailua Village (Kailua-Kona) in south Kona

How to experience it? Sign up for some “Morning Magic” with Kona Boys and enjoy a guided tour of this magical area at the best time of day.

Who is it suitable for? All levels

Night Manta Snorkel—Big Island

Tour operators set up waterproof spotlights on the ocean floor to attract plankton, a surefire way to bring giant Pacific manta rays galore. Even though they are closely related to sharks, have wingspans up to 20 feet, and can weigh a whopping 3,000 pounds, snorkeling with them is perfectly safe. Their underwater performance has all the theatrics of Cirque du Soleil—back flips and all.

Where is it? Fronting Outrigger Kona Resort & Spa at Keauhou Bay; south of Historic Kailua Village (Kailua-Kona)

How to experience it? During lobster season, Shoreline Snorkel makes the nighttime tour even more exciting. And sometimes an octopus might even swim by.

Who is it suitable for? Intermediate

Poipu Beach Park—Kauai

Tikes will dig the shallow-water lagoon at Poipu Beach, not to mention the wildlife. Shoreside, you’ll often find lounging monk seals. Offshore, it’s common to see humpbacks during whale season. While snorkeling, look for blue parrotfish, sea cucumbers, and this tongue-twister: humuhumunukunukuapuaa, Hawaii’s state fish.

Where is it? 25 minutes west of Lihue on Kauai’s south shore

How to experience it? Visitors who feel like exploring on their own but didn’t bring the right gear can stop by Boss Frog’s for everything from masks to beach chairs.

Who is it suitable for? All levels

North Shore—Oahu

Oahu’s North Shore is one of the best places for snorkeling in Hawaii. Play marine biologist for the day by hanging out with Ocean Ramsey’s research team. Galapagos sharks, tiger sharks, sandbar sharks, hammerheads, and sometimes even whale sharks roams these parts. If you’re not a fan of the apex predator, this trip could certainly change your perspective. Humans aren’t really on the lunch list.

Where is it? Haleiwa Boat Harbor

How to experience it? Book a private excursion with Hawaii Real Nature Tours to get the most from an experienced guide in this magical location.

Who is it suitable for? All levels

Tunnels (Makua) Beach—Kauai

Weird rock formations? Check. Large coral heads? Check. This spot in Kauai will keep you entertained with its caverns, channels, and tunnels. Look for goat fish, hogfish, filefish, green sea turtles, moray eels, trumpet fish, and wrasse. A word to the wise: Avoid winter when the waves can be gnarly.

Where is it? Kauai’s north shore; off Highway 560 about a mile west of Hanalei Colony Resort; near Haena Beach Park

How to experience it? Kauai Sea Tours is one of several companies that showcases the best of the island’s snorkeling with excursions that feature multiple stops. Might as well see it all!

Who is it suitable for? Different areas are good for different levels of experience, but everyone should remember to not step on the coral.

Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve—Oahu

This volcanic crater on Oahu’s east side is a marine life conservation area sheltered from ocean swells and packed full of fish. Needless to say, it’s wildly popular, so be prepared for crowds. Take a peek at crevices and caves while making friends with damsel fish, squirrel fish, porcupine fish, and trumpet fish.

Where is it? Oahu’s east side; from Waikiki take the H1 Freeway until it becomes Kalanianaole Highway, continue 10 miles. You’ll find the entrance at the top of the hill.

How to experience it? Hanauma Bay Snorkel Adventures runs tours every day except Mondays and Tuesdays, as well as most major holidays.

Who is it suitable for? All levels

Honolua Bay—Maui

Located on Maui’s northwest shore, Honolua Bay is a marine life conservation area, so your chances are good of tracking down diverse sea critters. Plus, you’ll be surrounded by rocky cliffs that help shelter the area from wind. Keep an eye out for butterflyfish, snapper, puffer fish, unicorn fish, and sea urchins. Afterward, watch the surfers to the right of the boat ramp. This spot happens to be one of the most epic surf breaks in Hawaii.

Where is it? 10 miles north of Lahaina along Hwy 30

How to experience it? Do it in style by boarding the luxury catamaran from PacWhale Eco-Adventures.

Who is it suitable for? Intermediate

Hulopoe Bay—Lanai

On the island’s south shore you’ll find this crescent-shaped bay dotted with shallow tide pools that house hermit crabs, sea stars, and small fish. Below the surface, you’re in for a treat. Spinner dolphins and sea turtles frolic here frequently. Plus, bandit angelfish, Hawaiian green sea turtles, and humpbacks (in the winter).

Where is it? Between the Four Seasons Resort Lanai and Manele Bay

How to experience it? Book Amstar’s incredible day tour from Maui to Lanai that takes visitors to Hulopoe Bay for exploring by land and sea.

Who is it suitable for? All levels

The post 10 of the Best Snorkeling Experiences in Hawaii appeared first on Islands.

Visit one of the four green-sand beaches in Hawaii, or travel to Iceland to see remnants of basalt lava pose as sand on one of the most exotic black-sand beaches. No matter your favorite color or what region of the world you travel to, there’s sure to be a colorful beach you’ll want to check out. Be careful, though: Not all of these beaches on our list are swimmer-friendly.

Read on for a list of our favorite multicolored beaches.

Black Sand: Paioa Beach—Maui, Hawaii

Located in the Waianapanapa State Park, the black “sand” is made mostly from small black rocks. Waianapanapa means “glistening fresh water” in Hawaiian, and it’s easy to see where the name came from when the black sand is contrasted against the brilliant blue ocean. The aesthetic easily makes this one of the most beautiful black-sand beaches out here.

Thanks to the scenery, this spot is a must-stop along the Road to Hana. Take as many pictures as you’d like, but save your swimsuit: With the strong surf and frequent jellyfish, opt for a more swimmer-friendly beach.

Orange Sand: San Blas Beach—Gozo, Malta

Located at the bottom of a steep hill on Gozo’s northeast coast, San Blas is a small, secluded beach featuring clear water and a marked swimming area. The soft sand—orange due to high iron oxide content—is perfect for lounging the day away in your rented beach chair. A small snack hut and restroom facilities mean you don’t have to wander far.

Pink Sand: Pink Beach—Komodo Island, Indonesia

Also known as Pantai Merah, Pink Beach is located on Komodo Island, one of more than 17,000 islands in the Republic of Indonesia. One of only seven pink-sand beaches in the world, the color is caused by the red coral mixed with white sand. It’s a popular snorkeling spot and suitable for beginners since even the shallows are teeming with marine life. The strand is also located within Komodo National Park, a sanctuary to Komodo Dragons, the world’s largest living lizard.

Green Sand: Papakolea Beach—Hawaii Island, Hawaii

Also known as Mahana Beach, you’ll find this unique, green-sand beach (one of only four in the world) on the southern tip of Hawaii’s Big Island. Nestled in a bay at the base of the Pu’u Mahana cinder cone, this remote beach requires a windy, five-mile, round-trip hike, or you can hitch a ride from a local for about $15 per person. There are no facilities, and the surf is too strong for swimming. The appeal, however, is the rare green sand, created by olivine crystals, a common silicate deposit of Big Island lava.

Red Sand: Kaihalulu Beach—Maui, Hawaii

Comprised of red and black lava cinders, this red-sand beach in Hana is the perfect spot to snap selfies. Go early to find parking, but you probably shouldn’t bring the little ones: The tricky trail to the beach is narrow and steep (plus, the hard-to-find location makes the spot popular among nudists).

Bring sturdy shoes for the hike and a snorkel mask, as the lava rock wall creates a protected cove for prime snorkeling.

Pink Sand: Horseshoe Bay Beach—Bermuda

Where did this beach, named for its curved shape, get its pink flecks? It’s from Foraminifera, a red microscopic organism with a reddish-pink shell. They grow profusely on the underside of Bermuda’s coral reefs, and their shells mix with the sand. Horseshoe is part of a collection of South Shore beaches and is one of the most popular spots with tourists and locals. Expect all the amenities you could ask for: chairs, umbrellas, snorkeling-gear and boogie-board rentals, bathrooms, and a low-key restaurant.

Black Sand: Reynisfjara Black-Sand Beach—Iceland

Just off Ring Road near the southernmost town of Vik, this black-sand beach gets its color from smooth pebbles and stones that are the remnants of basalt lava. Selfie-worthy sights include Gardar, a cliff made of hexagonal-shaped basalt columns that form a step-like pyramid. It’s created as part of columnar jointing, a type of lava-cooling process.

Basalt sea stacks, known as Reynisdrangar, are also worthy of a photo (local legend says there were two Icelandic sea trolls who tried to drag a ship to land, but daylight broke and turned them into these stone formations). Beachgoers beware: This is not a spot for swimming. The currents and waves are strong, and waves can sneak up on you. There have even been a few fatal accidents with unsuspecting people having been swept into the ocean.

Pink Sand: Harbour Island—Bahamas

This three-mile-long beach, located on the east side of Harbour Island, is the perfect spot for snorkeling and swimming, thanks to the reef that provides a large area of calm and relatively shallow water. The sand is made from bits of coral, shells, rocks, and calcium carbonate from marine invertebrates. Just like Bermuda’s Horseshoe Bay, this pink-sand beach gets its color from Foraminifera.

Red Sand: Cavendish Beach—Prince Edward Island, Canada

Part of Prince Edward Island National Park, this beach features silky red sand and all the necessary amenities—food, parking, restrooms, and lifeguards—for a perfect family beach day. The distinctive red sand gets its color from eroding sandstone cliffs on PEI’s north shore. For the active set, there are ample hiking and biking trails nearby.

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For those who have dreamed of spending the holidays in Hawaii, now’s the time. Sheraton Maui Resort & Spa is treating guests to the tastes and flavors of the island this holiday season. Located on the uber-popular Ka‘anapali Beach, the resort’s 23 oceanfront acres at Pu‘u Keka‘a (Black Rock) are the ideal spot for a tropical and festive holiday getaway. 

The holidays are a time for family gatherings and the resort’s signature Ohana (family) accommodations are spacious and comfortable for the largest of crews. Sheraton Maui has a full slate of festivities that will delight everyone from the toddlers to their grandparents, complete with an in-room Christmas tree and specialty Menorah lighting. 

Other activities include an Elf On the Shelf hunt, candy lei making demonstrations, and a Christmas Eve gingerbread house decorating contest to challenge other family members. There’s even a special Maui Nui Holiday Luau that will get you in the spirit of the season, with a tropical twist. 

Holiday guests are in for a real treat with Maui Nui Lū‘au’s specialty Christmas dinner, in which the decor blends the holidays with Hawaiian elements and the decorated buffet includes a little bit of everything—fresh whole pineapples, candy canes, and a selection of specialty desserts. The resort’s signature restaurant, Coral Reef, has prepared exquisite and decadent menus for its Christmas and New Year’s Eve prix fixe dinners.
Beyond the holidays, waking up in Maui this season allows guests to get centered and start 2023 with a self-guided yoga experience on Moana’s oceanfront lawn against the backdrop of the Pacific Ocean. A teacher-led sunrise yoga, slow flow, and stretch and release class can all be on the itinerary as well. A special dedicated wall at the resort will also help hold guests accountable to their resolutions.

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There’s a very good reason that the Sentry Tournament of Champions is such a popular event among PGA players—just look at the course. Or to be far more accurate, look at the course and everything around it as far as the eye can see. Kapalua is just one of those places where golfers will have to accept a slower pace of play, because everyone needs extra time to appreciate the views on every hole of the Bay and Plantation Courses, and truly absorb the overall majesty.

And, obviously, take a ton of photos and video.

That’s not to say that this Maui resort area is only for golfers. You don’t have to play to enjoy the rolling green hills and stunning blue water, and some guests would be just as happy walking the trail all morning before lounging at one of the new pool cabanas at The Ritz-Carlton Maui, Kapalua. But for those travelers who want a little bit of everything, the first PGA event of 2023 provides one of the best golf and resort experiences of the entire year.

The Deal: The name says it all—The Ritz-Carlton Maui, Kapalua Ultimate Bucket List Tournament of Champions Skybox Package. Guests who book this experience will enjoy the choice of Deluxe, Deluxe Ocean View, Club Ocean View, or Residential Garden View Suite accommodations, as well as club access to the new, awesome Ritz-Carlton Club Lounge and a $200 spa credit. As for the PGA event, they’ll receive two seats in the VIP Skybox, with food, drinks, and transportation to and from the Ritz all included.

The Time: This deal is valid January 4-9, 2023.

The post The Ritz-Carlton Maui, Kapalua, has the Best Seats in the House for the Tournament of Champions appeared first on Islands.

Spoiler alert: There will be more movies.

Until the next project becomes a little clearer, though, fans can still enjoy and visit some of the films’ major stars. The islands of Hawaii provided the backdrops that helped the mystical homes of dinosaurs come to life. Here are nine Jurassic Park filming locations you can visit on your next trip to Hawaii. Please note that some locations are on private property, so it’s important to follow posted signs.

This spot may look familiar. Dubbed Hollywood’s “backlot of Hawaii,” Kualoa Ranch has served as the filming locations for several movies and TV shows, including Hawaii Five-0, LOST, Kong: Skull Island and Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle. One of the most notable movies filmed here is the first Jurassic Park, and several scenes from Jurassic World and Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom were filmed here as well.

While being chased by dinosaurs, Grant and the kids took cover behind a fallen log, which almost wasn’t part of the film. In 1992, production was forced to move from Kauai to Oahu for a few final scenes due to Hurricane Iniki. Had the storm not caused the location change, this famous fallen log would never have made its big screen debut. The log is a popular photo op on Kualoa Ranch’s movie tours.

In an early scene of the first Jurassic Park, a helicopter lands at the base of a beautiful waterfall. You’ll find this spot on Kauai—in fact, Manawaiopuna Falls is now commonly referred to as “Jurassic Park Falls.” Want to recreate the scene? The site is located on private property and is only accessible via helicopter, so you’ll need to take a tour with one of the helicopter companies that are permitted landing access, like Island Helicopters Kauai.

In 1997’s Lost World, Kauai’s NaPali Coastline is shown as the fictional Isla Sorna, which is located approximately 90 miles from the fictional Isla Nublar.

Kipu Kai, Kauai

One of Kauai’s beaches, Kipu Kai, is also featured in Lost World, and can be seen when the Bowmans are dining on the beach. Located on Kauai’s southeastern side near Moleuhu, the beach is difficult to access and can only be reached via boat. To catch a glimpse of the area, take a Kipu Kai Ranch tour.

Pilaa Beach, Kauai

Jurassic Park III‘s final rescue scene features Kauai’s Pilaa Beach. This difficult-to-access beach is infrequently visited and not good for swimming. But if you brave the steep, rocky access trail you’ll be rewarded with stunning views and solitude.

Jurassic Kahili Ranch, Kauai

Other scenes from Jurassic Park III were filmed at Jurassic Kahili Ranch, however the ranch is private property. No tours are available and the no trespassing rules are strictly enforced.

For 2015’s Jurassic World, the helicopter entrance scene was filmed on the north shore of Maui, near the Garden of Eden Arboretum.

Also in Jurassic World, the Nublar ferry arrives on the Makai Research Pier, which is open to the public. The Navatek Boat that doubled for the ferry in the movie has since been retired, but you can whale watch or go for a dinner cruise on one of the company’s newer vessels.

In Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom, when Owen, Claire, and Franklin wash ashore after escaping a volcanic eruption and dinosaur stampede (because it wouldn’t be a Jurassic Park movie without one!), the spot is Halona Beach. A steep, rocky hike is the price of admission, but the picturesque cove is worth it. Scenes from Pirates of the Caribbean 4: On Stranger Tides were also filmed here, though they called the spot Whitecap Bay.

As an added bonus, drive by 42-139 Old Kalanianaole Road on Oahu and see where Chris Pratt lived during filming.

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