They may not be as popular as Waikiki or Diamond Head, but they are just as important (dare we say even more important) to perpetuating Native Hawaiian history, as well as Oahu’s culture and sense of place. This month on the blog we’re talking about 3 sacred ancient Hawaiian sites on Oahu. These sites include heiau (places of worship), fishponds, and pohaku (stones).
- The largest temple on Oahu, Pu’u O Mahuka Heiau, sits on nearly two acres overlooking Waimea Valley. This heiau was said to have been built in the 1770s, a time of political disorder. The temple was more than likely built as a sacrificial temple, specifically for successes in war. It was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1962, when it became the center of a Hawaii State park.
- Located on slopes of Kahana Valley overlooking the bay is the Kapaele’ele Koa fishing shrine. From this vantage point along the western side of the valley, fisherman could spot the schools of fish in the bay and signal fishermen in the water to surround them. Offerings were given at their sacred shrine to assure a bountiful catch.
- The Kukaniloko Birthstones is the first historic site on the island to be officially preserved and protected by the state. From as early as 1100 to the 1700’s, the daughters of Hawaii bearing children who would later become chiefs traveled to Kukaniloko to give birth. The location of the pohaku holds much significance as it sits in the spiritual piko (navel) or center of the island. Giving birth at this sacred site was a way to ensure a child’s high-ranking status. According to S.M. Kamakau, a 17th century historian, “if a chiefess entered and leaned against Kukaniloko and rested on the supports to hold up the thighs in observance of the Liloe kapu [prescribed regulations for birthing], the child born in the presence of chiefs was called an alii, an akua, a wela—a chief, a god, a blaze of heat.” Today visitors are able to see the original stones scattered under a grove of trees.
We look forward to spotlighting a few more sacred historic sites as the year goes by, and we hope that you enjoy learning about them as much as we do. Our goal is to help perpetuate this place we love so dearly, as well as its rich and loving culture.
Itʻs not often that weʻre dishing event details on our blog, but when we do itʻs because weʻre excited for whatʻs coming. 2019 is in full effect and we want to get things off to a solid start here at Hanauma Bay Snorkel Adventures. As mentioned in this post from August 2017, “we are defenders of Hawaii, supporters of Oahu and advocates of Hawaii Kai.” Another event is coming up right here in our hometown and we want you all to be in the know!
This month the Hawaii Kai Towne Center is putting together a community spotlight called 96825 Live and we’re excited about it. On Friday January 25th bring the entire ohana to enjoy performances from Ka Hale I O Kahala Hula School and the Hawaii Kai Dance Academy. Performances will take place on the marina docks at 5 and 6:30pm.
96825 Live is an event that will bring the talent of the community into the spotlight. Be prepared to witness Hawaii Kai’s very own artists, musicians, dance groups, school groups and more. Grab some food, pop up a couple of chairs and discover what makes Hawaii Kai so special at this free and family-friendly event at the Hawaii Kai Towne Center.
From nationwide brands to local businesses, Hawaii Kai Towne Center is East Oahu’s leading retail destination and community gathering place, guaranteed to have something for the whole family.
Follow Hawaii Kai Towne Center on Facebook at www.facebook.com/HawaiiKaiTowneCenter and Instagram @hawaiikaitownecenter for more event listings and updates.
Do you know of any other events coming up in the community? Let us know in the comments below. We’re always up for supporting this beautiful place and it’s people. And for any of you wanting to explore Hanauma Bay’s underwater community, give us a call — we’re experts when it comes to snorkeling and adventuring the bay!
Christmas is right around the corner, and with it comes gift giving to the people you love most. If you are in the market for a present for the beach goer in your life, stay tuned. We’ve got 6 gift ideas just for you!
SAND AND WATER RESISTANT BEACH MAT
No body likes a wet, sandy butt. Enter this sand-free, dual layer mesh technology, waterproof beach mat. This mat is easy to clean and dries instantly, we call it absolutely necessary for families with small children. It folds small and is easily transferable, making it the perfect gift for the especially spontaneous beach goer.
Rather than piling on the slippers, beach totes and random rocks, gift these anchor clips to someone who’s towel is always blowing away. Simply clip them to the corners of your towel, stake them into the sand and enjoy the beach without worrying about your towel folding over. We highly suggest these cute and affordable clips from Amazon.
No matter how much you love the beach, no one wants to take it home! This mesh beach tote is a must for any beach lover. Carry everything you need to the beach and leave with nothing more. Keep the sand where it belongs!
This waterproof case fits all phones up to 6.0” diagonally. This case may also provide protection for your ID, credit cards, cash money, keys and other small essentials. Allow your beach lover to maintain full screen functionality while out in the water. This case even comes with a neck strap for convenient carrying.
This bamboo pair of sunglasses is lightweight, polarized, durable and stylish — a beach goers dream. And because these glasses float in the water, he or she will never have to worry about losing them! We often talk about the importance of protecting our skin from the sun that we sometimes forget that our eyes need protection as well.
This portable safe is made to withstand everything that comes with a day at the beach. Its water resistant design and durability keeps your belongings, including your phone, jewelry, car keys and wallet, all in one place and safe to ensure maximum beach fun.
We hope our list of gifts for the beach goer in your life will help you out during the Christmas crunch time. We are so grateful for all of you, and would like to wish you all a Mele Kalikimaka and Hau’oli Makahiki Hou!
The coral reef plays a significant and insightful role in Hawaiian mythology. The Kumulipo, a native chant about creation that follows back to the beginning of time, eloquently states that coral was the first living thing on earth. As children of the ocean, that makes coral the first liquid incubators of life on planet earth. This month on the blog we’re talking about our gorgeous coral reefs and the part we can play in protecting these beautiful living creatures.
Coral reefs are described in many different shapes and colors. Some start as tiny plates and fingers and grow to become large extensive mounds which then become home to endless colonies of ocean life. You might compare a mound of reef as a city or hotel to fish, urchins, squid, snails, eels, etc. Without the proper shelter and food there is no marine life and without marine life, there is no us. This leads us to firmly believe that one, the only good place to stand in the ocean is on the sand. Two, take time to learn about an area before deciding to play in the ocean. If coral reef is around, be extra careful of where and how you have fun. Three, in some places feeding fish is completely illegal, and in most cases it’s a good idea to keep your food to yourself. Feeding the local marine life may disrupt the regular cycles of the reef. Four, use sunscreen that contain clean chemicals.
Most commercial sunscreens have two specific chemicals that are banned in Europe and Mexico — oxybenzone (benzophenone-3) and octinoxate. Both chemicals have become a pressing concern to the state of Hawaii. In a study conducted by the Haereticus Environmental Lab in Clifford, Virginia, oxybenzone was shown to damage the DNA of coral larvae, thus causing deformities in growth. What’s especially worrisome is that damage from such a chemical occurs at minuscule concentrations. In layman’s terms, it takes a really small amount of oxybenzone to do a whole lot of damage.
You might be asking, so what can I do to help manage the issue? A good idea would be to stay out of the sun at peak UV times between 10 in the morning and 2 in the afternoon. A better idea would be to use sunblocks that contain zinc oxid or titanium oxide rather than harmful chemicals like oxybenzone. The best idea would be to cover up when choosing to play in the ocean. It’s smartest to wear a rash guard, swim shorts and wide hat while only applying sunscreen to your face, neck, feet and hands. This reduces the use of use and risk of sunscreen pollution by almost 90 percent.
We understand that changing your sunscreen and covering up when planning a day at the beach won’t solve all of the ocean’s problems, but it is a choice that we can make and a choice that will, in the long run, benefit all of us. Some coral reefs may be tiny, but their purpose on earth is immense. Here at Hanauma Bay Snorkel, we are all about keeping our oceans and our island in tip top shape — the earth needs us now more than ever, let’s make conscious decisions to help her out.
While most people pay a visit to Oahu for the insane beaches, unmatched weather and mouthwatering food, others come to swim with sharks and zip line through lush green mountains. For all of you adrenaline-junkies who are looking for a good time in paradise, below is a list of three hair-raising adventures you can find on the island.
SWIM WITH SHARKS
How about an adventure that very few encounter while spending time in the Aloha State — swimming with sharks. IslandView, a North Shore based adventure company, will lead you to the deep blue waters off of Haleiwa to splash around with manō (sharks) — no bars, no cages, just the open ocean and you. Captain Kaiwi and his crew will be sure to show you a thrilling time.
SKYDIVE
After taking in the panoramic views of Oahu’s gorgeous terrain, let loose (literally) into the Hawaiian skies at 14,000 feet up. The Pacific Skydiving Center will safely escort you through an experience you are sure to always remember.
ZIP LINE
Take to the mountains at Kualoa Private Nature Reserve. 7 unreal tandem sections, 2 suspension bridges and 3 mini-5 minute hikes will definitely get your blood going. From start to finish, you can be prepared to take in unreal views of a true paradise on earth, stacked with lush looks at the Ko’olaus and exhilarating glimpses of the Pacific Ocean.
Here at Hanauma Bay Snorkel Adventures we are true believers in Hawaii. Explore this paradise we’re lucky enough to call home — meet the locals, enjoy the beaches, then get a little crazy with an adrenaline-pumping adventure! Should you have any questions with finding your thrill, contacts us — we’d love to help you out!
Like anywhere else you visit, Hawaii has its own group of unwritten rules. Such rules are a guide to local behaviors as well as ways of respect and safety. Below is a condensed list of rules we live by here in Hawaii. Enjoy!
• There’s no need to use your car horn unless you’re trying to alert someone of an emergency. Blasting your horn out of road rage and frustration will not endear you to the locals.
• Give authentic Hawaiian food a shot. Before adding salt, pepper and sugar to your Hawaiian cuisine, let your tastebuds do the judging. Trust us on this one.
• We use two directions here on the islands — mauka (to the mountains) and makai (to the sea).
• Please remove your shoes before entering someone’s home. This is a sign of respect here in Hawaii.
• It is a great gift to receive a lei. Please accept your gift with a hug and honi (kiss).
• Never go to a dinner party empty handed. Your gift need not be huge, it truly is the thought that counts.
• Please do not touch the sea turtles. Sea turtles are an endangered species and your touching could result in a hefty fine or worse, jeopardizing their safety. Instead, appreciate their beauty from a few feet away.
• Pick up your trash. We locals take great pride in the beauty of our home and do all that we can to keep it clean.
• Acknowledge acts of kindness, both big and small. Whether you’re on the road or at the mall. A smile and “mahalo” go a long way!
There you have it, friends — a small list of rules to study before visiting Hawaii, this beautiful paradise we’re lucky enough to call home. If you haven’t payed the state a visit yet, we highly recommend it. (Yes, we’re biased.) Contact us to make the most of your vacation.
It should be to no surprise that we are defenders of Hawaii, supporters of Oahu and advocates of Hawaii Kai. We’re here to let the people know what’s happening because we want everyone to enjoy the things we love!
Every now and again Hawaii Kai Towne Center puts on a festival on the marina. At the end of the month Hawaii State Federal Credit Union is presenting an event called Mele on the Marina. On Saturday, August 25, Hawaii Kai Towne Center invites you to enjoy local entertainment and culture. This free community event will begin at 3pm on the marina docks.
Hālau Na Maka O Ka Lauaʻe starts us off with a performance, followed by musician Mike Tulba. The Makaha Sons will then take the stage at 6pm with a show you will not want to miss.
With more than 50 stores, restaurants and dining option, Hawaii Kai Towne Center has something for the entire family to enjoy. Follow them on Facebook to stay updated on community events and specials.
Here at Hanauma Bay Snorkeling we’re all about community. Whether that’s the Hanauma Bay community, the Hawaii Kai community or the community of Oahu. We want to see our island thrive and we have a platform to do it. Visit our Home page to learn more about how we contribute to our community. Aloha!
Sweet home Hawaii Kai! Yes, we spend a lot of time on the east end of Oahu. Truth is, when we’re not at the office (our office being Hanauma Bay) we’re probably never more than a few miles away. We encourage visitors to make a day of Hawaii Kai — below are five reasons why.
Are you even surprised? Hanauma Bay holds a special place in our hearts. Explore Hawaii’s underwater wonders — you won’t believe your eyes!
The Koko Crater Trail, known as “Koko Head” to locals, is your stair-master with a view. With over 1000 steps to the top, this hike with test your endurance and strength then proceed to reward you with a complete view of Hawaii Kai.
Halona Blowhole is one of Oahu’s many natural wonders. When currents are strong and the ocean is rough, big waves will send water through the blowhole creating geysers as high as 30 feet. If watching the blowhole isn’t something that interests you, take a spot on the sand at the cove adjacent. Halona is keiki (child) friendly and worth the visit.
This hike is among the most memorable on Oahu, and for good reason! Be prepared to over look Makapu’u Beach, the windward coast, and neighboring islands Moloka’i and Lana’i. If you take the trail at the right time of year, you may even be able to see some whales passing by too!
We could not leave out our favorite snack store in Hawaii Kai! Kokonuts is a great place to stop for a quick, refreshing treat after hours in the Hawaiian sun. Here you can find shave ice, ice cream, bubble drinks, candy, açaí bowls, snacks, beverages and more! Open daily at 10:30a, you can count on Kokonuts to satisfy your sweet tooth.
Hawaii Kai is not short on fun, that’s for sure. In fact, we could probably name ten more things to do while in the area, but we’ll spare you the read. We do suggest, however, getting out there and exploring the town for yourself. Let us know what you find, leave your HK discoveries in the comments below. And remember, if Hanauma Bay is on your list, give us a call to help make that happen.
School is out, Summer is here and we’re pumped for what the next couple of months have in store — BEACH DAYS GALORE! There are few essentials when it comes to the beach — sun screen, water and (our personal favorite) food! Rather than packing a bag of chips or roll of crackers, grab some of local snacks instead. Below is a list of our top 4 local beach snacks.
POKE
The Hawaiian word poke (poe•kay) translates to “slice” or “cut crosswise into pieces”. Today poke is a popular local dish of sliced and marinated fish, tako, or shellfish. You can buy poke by the bowl at most grocery stores in Hawaii, we love Foodland’s flavors. But be sure to bring a cooler with you, the meat should be kept on ice while at the beach (that is if you make it to the beach without eating all of it on the way there!).
MANAPUA
Manapua is Hawaii’s version of the Chinese char siu bao. The word manapua is actually short for mea ʻono puaʻa meaning “delicious pork thing”. And that’s exactly what they are, pork-filled buns packed with flavor. We suggest your manapua be eaten warm — let them bake by your side and enjoy!
SPAM MUSUBI
Spam musubi is a local take on the Japanese ongiri, rice balls wrapped in seaweed. Make your own with three simple ingredients: rice, spam and nori (seaweed wrap), or grab a handful at your nearest 7-11. The comfort of rice alongside the saltiness of spam makes the ultimate snack for a day at the beach.
MALASADA
A malasada is a Portuguese pastry, deep-fried and rolled in granulated sugar. The rich, fluffy inside and crispy outside never fails to hit the spot. Need we say more? Our go to bakery for the perfect malasada is Leonard’s. Give ‘em a try, we promise you will not be disappointed.
There it is — 4 drool-worthy snacks for your next beach day! We hope you enjoy these treats as much as we do. We’re obsessed with everything about the ocean and love that these snacks make our days spent on the beach that much sweeter! So what are you waiting for? Get to planning!
Sun exposure is important. Ultraviolet rays activate our body’s natural production of Vitamin D. Here at Hanauma Bay Snorkeling Adventures, weʻre all about soaking in the sun. It should not go unsaid, however, that too much unprotected exposure to the sun’s UV rays can cause skin damage, eye damage, immune system suppression, and skin cancer. It is also very important to make sure that weʻre taking the necessary steps to remain protected from over exposure. Below are 4 everyday sun protection tips.
First, coat your body in sunscreen before you put on your clothes. Dermatologist Jeannette Graf says that “working around your clothes [while slathering on sunscreen] will make you more likely to miss a spot”. Graf is specific in using the word slather when describing the style in which to apply sunscreen of SPF 30 or more. She recommends applying a shot glass’s worth of sunscreen to our bodies and another teaspoon of sunscreen to our faces.
Next, shy away from using old bottles of sunscreen. Here at Hanauma Bay Snorkel Adventures we try to keep it fresh. With each new summer comes a new bottle of sunscreen. There are active ingredients in sunscreens which lose their vigor as time passes, so be sure to check your expiration dates regularly.
Third, always have sunscreen on hand. Dermatologists offer samples of sunscreens which are great for sticking in your purse or keeping in your car. You never know when you or someone else is going to need a squirt.
Lastly, don’t leave your scalp out of the sunscreening process. You can buy a scalp-specific tube at your local drugstore or you can grab a spray-on sunscreen that’ll do the job just the same. Whenever in doubt of this last step, wear a hat.
We are committed to keeping our customers satisfied and safe here at Hanauma Bay Snorkel Adventures. Protection from the sun is as important as being able to explore the world underneath it. Call us to book an underwater excursion complete with snorkeling gear, transportation and lots of sunscreen!