Kīpukapuaulu: An “Island Within an Island”

On Hawai’i’s Big Island, just outside Volcanoes National Park's main entrance, Kīpukapuaulu is a remarkable ecological sanctuary—a kīpuka—where lava fields surround a forest oasis. Locally, it’s referred to as “bird park,” and is home to an astonishing abundance of native birds and plant life. Whether you’re a local (kama’aina) or a visitor, this easy hike … Continue reading Kīpukapuaulu: An “Island Within an Island”

Top things to do on The Big Island

The island of Hawai’i is the youngest and largest island in the Hawaiian chain. In fact, it’s nearly twice as big as all the other Hawaiian Islands combined, and since the early days, it has been referred to as “The Big Island.”  The Big Island boasts multiple climate zones, ranging from steamy tropical to snow-covered … Continue reading Top things to do on The Big Island

The History of Molokini

Mai huhū iā Pele! Don’t anger Pele! THE ANCIENT HAWAIIAN LEGEND OF MOLOKINI As Hawaiian legends go, this one is reasonably consistent: The fire goddess, Pele, was in love with a prince (who took the form of a Mo’o – or sacred lizard), but the prince fell in love with another woman. In her fury, … Continue reading The History of Molokini

Maui’s Tropical Fish and Marine Species

The waters around the Hawaiian island of Maui are teeming with life. Snorkeling in this fantastic underwater world, you can see beautiful tropical fish, sea turtles, whales, and dolphins in their natural environment. Up to 30% of the reef fish found in Hawaiian waters are endemic because of the isolation and climate of the islands. … Continue reading Maui’s Tropical Fish and Marine Species

The 2018 Big Island Eruption and Its Aftermath

Most people will remember the international news about Kilauea erupting, as it was well-covered in the media. Numerous stories were circulating, and some confusion arose about what this meant to people with homes in the Puna district. It was especially worrisome to my husband and me as we owned a small house in Leilani Estates … Continue reading The 2018 Big Island Eruption and Its Aftermath

Elvis Presley’s Concert to Help Save the USS Arizona Memorial

The King stepped up to honor the fallen at Pearl Harbor Elvis Presley loved Hawai’i From his first visit in November 1957 to his final vacation in March 1977, Elvis Presley made numerous trips to the Hawaiian Islands. In addition to filming three movies there—Blue Hawaii, Girls! Girls! Girls!, and Paradise, Hawaiian Style—he also performed … Continue reading Elvis Presley’s Concert to Help Save the USS Arizona Memorial

Hawaii’s Lava Flows are a Time to Honor and Reflect

After months of increasingly frequent earthquakes, on November 27, 2022, the world’s largest active volcano awoke for the first time in nearly 40 years. The Mauna Loa volcano makes up roughly half of Hawaii island's land mass, and the news of the event has spread worldwide. “A volcanic eruption is a physical manifestation of so … Continue reading Hawaii’s Lava Flows are a Time to Honor and Reflect