Luau’s On Oahu

by debbie on January 17, 2011

Whether it is your first visit to Hawaii or even if you visit every year, a luau is a must do for everyone. A luau is a great way to experience and enjoy the Hawaiian culture at its finest. You will be entertained with Hawaiian music and dance all while you enjoy a delicious Hawaiian style meal. If you are visiting the Island of Oahu, you will have some great luau choices. Here is a look at the top picks.

Paradise Cove Luau

Considered by many to be the Island’s finest, guests are greeted with a tropical Mai Tai as they listen to the sound of Hawaiian music in the background. There are a variety of luau packages to choose from but all offer the same great experience. The festive atmosphere allows guests to enjoy some of the traditions of the Hawaii culture including the participation in a variety of Hawaiian games. Entertainment for the evening includes the Shower of Flowers, where guests will witness Hawaiian tree climbers ascend the palm trees and spread aloha. Then guests can experience the Hukilau Ceremony where they will be invited to help with the ceremonial pulling of fish nets from the sea, all to the sounds of the conch shell and traditional Hawaiian chants.

As the evening continues guests are treated to a feast of traditional authentic Hawaiian foods. As the spectacular Hawaiian sun sets over the beach, enjoy the award winning performers as they entertain and amaze you. Guests will be delighted with the unforgettable display of dances and songs of the Hawaiian and Polynesian People.

The Polynesian Cultural Center Luau

At the Polynesian Cultural Center guests are able to participate in what many call the most authentic luau experience that Hawaii has to offer. You will be entertained with some of the island’s culture and customs that have existed for hundreds of years. The Luau here was designed specifically to be kid friendly and offers kids games and activities so that the entire family can participate in this amazing experience.

Guests are greeted with a flower lei and that is just the beginning. As the evening progresses, enjoy live Hawaiian music and the most amazing entertainment. Feast on traditional Hawaiian food like kulua pua’a (roast pork), teriyaki moa (chicken), exotic fruit, poi and so much more.

Plus if you come earlier in the day you can experience all the other activities that the cultural center has to offer including the 7 villages, the rainbow of paradise canoe show, an Imax film and so much more. The Polynesian cultural center is an experience, not to be missed.

Germaine’s Luau

If you want to experience the true cultural heritage of the Pacific Islands while enjoying a scrupulous Hawaiian feast and a most spectacular show under the stars and softly swaying palm trees, you have found the perfect location. When you experience the Germaine’s Luau, you are experiencing Hawaiian’s finest.

This exclusive beach front luau has been running since 1976 and more than three million Island visitors have partaken in this amazing experience over the years. The Germaine’s luau has been acclaimed as the best luau in America. Upon arrival guests are greeted with a Hawaiian shell lei and the wonderful aroma of the feast that awaits them.

Enjoy an evening filled with wonderful Hawaiian traditions including music and dance all while enjoying a fabulous meal of tasty Island foods. When the evening is over you will be left longing for more.

{ 0 comments }

Gardens On The Big Island Of Hawaii

by debbie on January 8, 2011

For garden and flower lovers alike, there is no place like the Big Island. Your senses will be awakened with the delightful and fragrant topical gardens, not found any place else. You will be able to experience everything from tropical exotic flowers to exotic birds, breathtaking waterfalls, walk through lush rainforests and more. Here is a look at all the Big Island has to offer.

Hawaii Tropical Botanical Gardens

The Hawaii Tropical Botanical Gardens are often referred to as a “Garden in the Valley on the Ocean”. This lush delightful area is located just a short drive from Hilo on Highway 19 along a 4 mile stretch of the Hamakua coast.

Your senses will be delighted as you take in the sites and fragrances of this living plants museum. The gardens attract visitors from all over the world, including professional photographers, scientists, botanists, gardeners and those who just love nature in general. The collection of plants and flowers is amazing and with over 2,000 species, over 125 different plant families and 750 genera represented on the grounds, you will be in awe. The valley, which encompasses 40 acres, is in itself a natural green house. The valley is protected from the ocean’s trade winds and the volcanic fertile soil could not be more perfect for plant growing.

Visitors are greeted with nature trails that wind through the rainforest that offers views of tropical foliage, streams, waterfalls and more. Keep an eye out for views of the coastline, which are simply spectacular.

The Hawaiian Tropical Botanical Gardens is registered as a non-profit organization whose purpose is to preserve this nature’s sanctuary. Research and education is ongoing and focuses on the natural rainforest habitat.

Nani Mau Gardens

The Nani Mau Gardens are also located near Hilo on the Big Island of Hawaii. Encompassing 20 acres, the grounds show of Hawaii’s natural beauty in the form of tropical flowers, majestic pools, waterfalls and tropical foliage pathways.

The gardens are often used for celebrations and community events as well as for weddings and other family gatherings.

World Botanical Gardens

When you visit the World Botanical Gardens on the Big Island of Hawaii you will be experiencing nature’s beauty at its best. These gardens are often known as the home for Peace and Beauty. The grounds encompass about 100 acres and are located on what used to be sugarcane fields. A visit to the gardens is not complete without taking in the sights of the breathtaking Kamaee Falls, considered by many to be one of Hawaii’s top hidden waterfalls.

The World Botanical Gardens are located about 16 miles to the north of Hilo. Some of the top reasons to visit the gardens include:

  • Getting a glimpse of the spectacular waterfalls. The falls cascade through the tropical forest for over one hundred feet.
  • Being able to take in the sights of a variety of fruit trees including banana, pineapple, guava, papaya and bread fruit.
  • Being able to stroll down a variety of tropical paths including the 80 meter wall which is covered with the amazing sights of wild orchids and the Rainbow Walk which is known for its 100 species of Bromeliads.
  • The views. Enjoy the most spectacular 360 degree views imaginable of the Mauna Kea, the ocean and more.
  • Being able to feel the tranquility and experience nature in its most beautiful setting. Meander through the rainforest and enjoy the tropical foliage and waterfall views.

The Panaewa Rainforest Zoo and Gardens

Finally, a visit to the only natural tropical rainforest zoo in America will give you access to a tropical garden oasis. Take a stroll through the lush tropical grounds and view the wild orchids, clumping bamboos, tropical Rhododendrons and more.

{ 0 comments }

A Few Of The Top Attractions On The Big Island

January 4, 2011

Whether you are a frequent visitor to the Big Island of Hawaii or on a once in a lifetime vacation, you could not pick a more picturesque place in the world to visit. From black to white sand beaches, lush tropical rainforests, an active volcano, breathtaking waterfalls and more you will be awed by nature’s [...]

Read the full article →

How To Plan The Best Hawaii Beach Vacation

January 3, 2011

There is a reason why millions of travelers flock to Hawaii beaches each year. In fact, there are several reasons however most visitors to the islands will agree that the natural beauty and breathtaking scenery rank high on the list. Whether this is your first trip to Hawaii or a return trip, there are several [...]

Read the full article →

Tips For The Best Hawaii Beach Wedding

January 3, 2011

Thinking of tying the knot in Hawaii? There are few places that offer a more beautiful and romantic setting than a Hawaii beach wedding. Planning a wedding under the best circumstances can be a nerve-wracking experience. This can be true for destination weddings as well if you are not prepared for the unique obstacles that [...]

Read the full article →

Observe Sea Turtles on Hawaii’s Big Island Beaches

January 3, 2011

Sea turtle enthusiasts from around the globe visit Hawaii each year to observe these magnificent creatures. If you are planning a visit and one of your itinerary items is to get a peek at the turtles you should know that green sea turtles, the most popular to the Islands, are endangered and all sea turtles [...]

Read the full article →

How to Decide the Best Hawaiian Beach for You

December 31, 2010

A visit to Hawaii is exciting but does not come without proper planning, saving and preparation.  It is impossible to see and do everything that Hawaii has to offer in a single trip. Because the state is made up of islands, a visit to Hawaii is sure to include a visit to a beach or [...]

Read the full article →

Affordable Maui Restaurants

December 30, 2010

Taking a vacation in Hawaii can be pricey and finding a reasonable restaurant is important. Locating an affordable restaurant that doesn’t break the bank is always a consideration. Try these restaurants for great value for your dollar. Shave Ice Restaurant Shave Ice is excellent value for your hard earned dollar. Visit Ululani’s Hawaiin Shave Ice [...]

Read the full article →

The Best of Hawaiian Bed and Breakfasts

December 28, 2010

Consider escaping to a Hawaiian bed and breakfast rather than a traditional hotel stay. Instead of being corralled in the lobby of a tourist hotel, bed and breakfast accommodations in Hawaii can offer a relaxing atmosphere and provide the intimacy of Hawaiian life. Away from the trendy hotels and bustling city centers many of Hawaiian’s [...]

Read the full article →

Hawaii – The Best of Both Worlds

December 26, 2010

Hawaii has long been known as a true paradise, in part because the entire state is made up of a variety of unique islands.  The pure natural beauty of Hawaii comes from a combination of a tropical weather, beautiful shorelines, and breathtaking ocean views.  The countless beaches that make up Hawaii truly define the location [...]

Read the full article →