Though Hawaii’s exciting humpback whale season doesn’t “officially” start until December/January, some whales start their visit sooner. It’s quite possible that there are whales swimming towards Hawaii right now. So, it’s time to kick off our annual contest to predict the first humpback whale sighting of the 2018/2019 season! Here’s how this easy and fun little contest works: Pick the earliest ... Read More »

Mahalo to Lisa Seyfried of Nelson, British Columbia for sharing this Aloha Friday Photo. She took this photo along the Honoapiilani Highway on Maui. She says, “Love that they have replaced the sugar cane fields with sunflowers for bio diesel. So gorgeous to drive past!” Happy Aloha Friday! Read More »

On Hawaii’s Hamakua Coast, Waipio Valley is sure to make you marvel. We always wonder how such a flat and verdantly green valley floor was created between the steep cliffs. The overlook for Waipio Valley is easy to find and access and a must-see on a Hawaii Island vacation. Access to the valley floor is a tad bit trickier as ... Read More »

Mahalo to Colleen Henderson for sharing this Aloha Friday Photo. Colleen photographed this pink hibiscus during her stay on Kona. We love the beautiful backlighting on this capture. You can find the iconic hibiscus bloom all over Hawaii. It seems like we find a new color variety with each visit. You may be pleased to know that the hibiscus flower ... Read More »

We wrap up our Hawaii helicopter series with Oahu. Tours of the island can begin from Honolulu airport, Ko Olina and Turtle Bay. We list the starting prices for tours, but each company offers more options than just their base tour. So, be sure and check out each tour company’s website for more options and details. Paradise Helicopters Website: Paradise ... Read More »

Mahalo to Liza Mello for sharing this Aloha Friday Photo. Liza took this nice shot from Kauai’s Waimea Canyon in February. The impressive Waipo’o Falls really stands out from this view. Happy Aloha Friday! Read More »

We continue our Hawaii helicopter series with a look at the tour companies in Maui and Molokai. Generally, Maui helicopter tour options are: Hana coast West Maui mountains Haleakala Molokai sea cliffs, which are some of the tallest in the world A combination of the above We list the least expensive tour option for each tour company. Be sure to explore ... Read More »

Mahalo to Laura Toffi for sharing this lovely Aloha Friday Photo. Laura took this photo from the Manoa Falls Trail on Oahu. Her photo shows that the jungle-like scenes from the trail are wonderful to see. It’s an enjoyable trail that finishes at the base of a lacy waterfall. Happy Aloha Friday! Read More »

We continue our series on Hawaii helicopter tours with a look at the options on Hawaii (Big) Island. The island’s diverse climates and volcanic terrains make for spectacular aerial tours. Seeing active lava is a popular desire from a helicopter tour company. Most helicopter tours offer an option to try to see the lava. Note that lava viewing cannot be ... Read More »

Mahalo to Gregory Hanson for sharing this colorful Aloha Friday Photo with us. Gregory took this photo while visiting Maui in 2006. Looks like a perfect beach day ahead with golden sand and bright blue skies. Happy Aloha Friday! Read More »