February is the month of love, and I think we can all agree that a tropical Hawaiian vacation is as romantic as they come. Let your significant other know how much she means to you with more than just a box of chocolates and bouquet of flowers. This month on the blog we’re letting you in on our top 3 most romantic hikes on the O’ahu.
Ka’iwa Ridge Trail (Lanikai Pillbox Trail)
Known for being a fairly easy trail, the view from Ka’iwa Ridge is among other things, spectacular. Along the trail one can see the Ko’olau mountains as well as Moku Iki, one of two small islands off the shore of Lanikai. Providing views of Kailua, the trail is most rewarding at dawn or dusk when the skies are clear, and the crowds are limited. For those who have ever wanted a romantic night stargazing, this hike offers a truly stellar experience of O’ahu’s night sky.
Likeke Falls
Sometimes also referred to as the Old Pali Highway Falls, Likeke is a gorgeous, two-tiered waterfall that can be found below the Pali Lookout. As the name may suggest, this spot involves getting a little wet! Please prepare accordingly. This trail is not meant for the novice hiker, but rather better suited for the adventurous couple willing to get a little dirty. The hour-long hike through lush forest and humid conditions will be made worth it once you get to the glistening falls and are able to commemorate the end of the trail with a kiss!
Makapu’u Point Lighthouse Trail
In search of an easy trail with quick access and sights of mother nature? Look no further. This 2-mile paved trail provides tremendous views of O’ahu’s east side from Kailua to Hawaii Kai. The final backdrop will surely set the romantic tone for you and your sweetheart.
No matter which hike you choose, grab some comfortable shoes, a reusable water bottle, and the spirit of adventure as you make your way to the romantic sights of the beautiful island of O’ahu.
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.
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!
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!
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!
Hawaii is a magical paradise filled with nature and unparalleled views. It’s surreal to think that we get to call this place home. Below are our top seven natural wonders of Hawaii — we’ve been to some and we’re hoping to visit others.
1. OHELO GULCH, MAUI
These fresh water pools sit on the lower slopes of Haleakala. The 7+ pools, which are powered by small waterfalls, are located about ten miles south of Hana in Haleakala National Park. It’s a two-mile hike to the pools, and an even further trek to the 400-foot Waimoku Falls.
2. HANAUMA BAY, OAHU
Of course Hanauma Bay made the list! Our very own Hanauma is both a marine life conservation property as well as a nature preserve. Visitors to the bay are expected to see over 100 different kind of species in just one visit alone. The abundance of sea life makes it a popular snorkeling destination, but also a chance to educate both visitors and kama’aina (locals).
3. HALEAKALA, MAUI
Haleakala, translated from Hawaiian to English as ‘house of the sun’, stands 10,023 feet about sea level and is unsurprisingly Maui’s highest peak. It is said that one is able to see up to three neighboring islands when the skies are clear.
4. DIAMOND HEAD, OAHU
This volcanic crater is, arguably, Hawaii’s most recognized wonder. Pictured on almost all Hawaii postcards, this 150,000-year old monument was given the name ‘Diamond Head’ by sailors who believed the calcite crystals in the slopes of the mountain to be diamonds.
5. WAIMEA CANYON, KAUAI
Known as the ‘Grand Canyon of the Pacific’, this iron-rich, 14-mile long wonder, owes its beauty to a massive land collapse off of Mount Waialeale about four million years ago. Over time the rainwater from the Waimea River gradually turned the black lava rock to an assortment of reds. This is one of the wonders we have yet to see.
6. NAPALI COAST, KAUAI
The breathtaking views, endless ocean, deep valleys and luscious green mountain cliffs make this 17-mile stretch of coast one of our favorite places in the state. Off-limits to any vehicles, one is able to hike the 11-mile trail that ends at the hallowed Kalalau Beach. While those that choose to abdicate hiking cannot get to the coast by car, all are welcome to enjoy the wonder by boat or up in the air.
7. VOLCANOES, HAWAII ISLAND
We’d be out of our minds not to include the Volcanoes National Park as part of our list. What’s there to say about a fiery display of Pele (goddess of fire). Her volcanoes are fierce and beautiful while at the same time leaving you all-fearing to the power of Hawaii. We can’t help but feel in awe each time we visit.
While Hanauma Bay is obviously our favorite beach on the south shore of Oahu, and Waikiki may be the most well-known, there are lots of south side beaches worth a visit. We’ve listed, in no particular order, our top five south shore beaches.
ALA MOANA BEACH PARK
Ala Moana Beach Park stands as a favorite to both tourists and locals alike. There are large grass lawns, picnic tables, pavilions and lots of parking which make for easy beach days. The spaced out banyan trees provide shade on those particularly sunny days. There are lifeguards present, restrooms, showers and calm currents which make this beach great for children and adults.
MAUNALUA BAY
Just before you reach Koko Marina Shopping Center off of Kalanianaole Highway, you will see a beach park on your right. This spot is not ideal for swimming, as it is very shallow and rocky, but it is a great place to picnic and watch the local outriggers paddle by. Restrooms, showers, picnic tables and parking are available.
HANAUMA BAY
This volcanic crater, that we are so lucky to be able to call our work office, makes for the perfect snorkeling adventure. Hanauma once served as a beach for Hawaii’s royal families because of its unmatched beauty and abundance of sea life. Lifeguards, restrooms and showers are all available. Parking is limited; however, shuttles to and from the bay are easily available. Give us a call to learn more about our services or simply click on the RESERVATION tab above to book a session with us, complete with snorkeling equipment.
WAIKIKI
Waikiki ranks among the best beaches in the world and is actually made up of a few different spots – Kaimana, Walls, Queens, Baby Queens, Canoes, Pops, and Threes. Waikiki is known for many things, one being the beach that Duke Kahanamoku learned to swim and surf as a boy. Lifeguards, restrooms and showers are all readily available and parking can be easily found in one of the many parking garages along Kalakaua Avenue or on one of the perpendicular side streets.
SANDY BEACH
This particular beach is known for its heavy shore break. Local body surfers and boarders crowd the beach, especially when the south shore is pumping. Sandy’s, as the locals call it, is also one of the most dangerous breaks on the island. There are more lifeguards stationed at this beach than at any other on the island of Oahu. With that said, it is also one of the most beautiful beaches on Oahu. There’s lots of parking, restrooms and showers.
There you have it, our top five favorite beaches on the South Shore of Oahu. You’ve got a little bit of everything in this short list, and that’s what makes us proud to call Hawaii home. What do you think of our list? Are there any beaches we missed, let us know in the comments below. Also, be sure to give us a call if Hanauma Bay is where you want your next adventure to take you, we’d love to help make your experience as stress-free as possible.
Oahu is home to some of the most popular, picturesque lookouts in the state. Below are a just a few to add to your ‘go-see’ list.
NUʻUANU PALI LOOKOUT
If the windward coast of Oahu is what you’re longing to view, then the Nu’uanu Pali Lookout should stand as your first go-see. Its 1200-foot pali (Hawaiian word for “cliff”) makes the view of the Ko’olaus surrounded by the warm blue Pacific Ocean breathtakingly unforgettable.
DIAMOND HEAD LOOKOUT
Diamond Head, also known as Kaimanahila, is easily the most popular lookout in all of Oahu. Though the hike to the summit lacks shade, the view — which includes all of the south shore, Pearl Harbor to Kahala — is absolutely insane, and so worth it.
MAKAPU’U LOOKOUT
Makapu’u is one of the few roadside vista points on the island. Next time you’re driving through Hawaii Kai and into Waimanalo cast your eyes across the beautiful east shore of Oahu.
HANAUMA BAY LOOKOUT
Sure, we’re suckers for anything Hanauma. We consider ourselves extra lucky to be able to call Hanauma Bay our work office. But we have to admit that as beautiful as the views are under water, so are the sights from the ridge.
TANTALUS LOOKOUT
Mt. Tantalus, also known as Pu’u Ualaka’a, gifts a perspective unlike any other. Visit during the day for a picnic with a view, or unwind with a front row seat to the sunset and Honolulu City Lights.
We know this list holds just a fraction of the vista points on the island, but, if you haven’t been to any and you’re an Oahu first-timer — this list is a great place to start. Don’t forget to give us a call when you’re ready to complete your trip with an adventure at Hanauma Bay. Hanauma Bay Snorkel is here to help you create a memorable visit to our beautiful islands.
Hawaii basically has one season all year long – summer. With summer comes sunshine and full days spent at the beach. And if we’re being honest, there are a few issues that come the beach that we could gladly do without: getting sand everywhere, dropping your phone in the water, and losing your keys in the sand are just a few. Below are thirteen beach gadgets that are sure to keep your beach days cool, calm and collected.
CGEAR SAND-FREE TOTE
First on our list is CGear’s Sand-Free Tote. This tote is a total pro at keeping your things in and letting the sand out through the bottom and sides. At just $28 on Amazon, this purchase really is a no-brainer.
ITZY RITZY WET BAG
Next up is the leakproof wet bag from Itzy Ritzy. Sitting in a wet suit on the way home from the beach is equally as bothersome as having no place to put your soaking suit after taking it off. With sealed seams and a lead-free zipper, carrying your wet suit home is made simple with this $14 wet bag.
JOTO WATERPROOF CASE
This JOTO waterproof case prevents water damage to your phone while allowing you to maintain full touch screen functionality. This Amazon best seller fits most phones up to 6 inches diagonally and can be yours for just $7.99.
HYDROFLASK 32OZ WATER BOTTLE
Hydroflask water bottles keep your icy drinks cold for up to 24 hours, perfect for a sweltering day in and out of the water. Trust us when we say this water bottle is worth the splurge of $44.95!
SPORT-BRELLA UMBRELLA
One of our biggest beach-peeves is when our beach umbrella topples over on us after twenty minutes of anchoring it into the sand. Enter Sport-Brella Umbrella, $48 on Amazon. This genius invention is one part umbrella, one part tent and one part canopy, anchored to the ground in six different points and stands 8-feet around for maximum coverage.
We hope this little list of gadgets make your next beach day a greater success. Remember that not all beach days should be spent on the shore. Give us a call to book your next underwater adventure, complete with snorkel gear and transportation to Oahu’s premier snorkeling location, Hanauma Bay!
Here at Hanauma Bay Snorkel Adventures we are complete snorkel enthusiast, snorkel nerds really. And it’s easy for us to assume that you all love snorkeling as much as we do. But if we’re totally honest, most of the world hasn’t even give two thoughts to giving snorkeling a try. If you’re on the fence on whether you’d even want to try snorkeling, let these six reasons convince you that snorkeling is always a good idea. Who knows – by the time you’re done reading the post, you may have your bags packed and your snorkel face on.
IT’S AN UNDERWATER EXPERIENCE
Ever wondered what it feels like to be underwater? Let us tell you – it feels as if you were flying. Sure, we’ve never flown before, but, being underwater has you feeling as weightless as weightless gets. Once you’ve mastered your breathing and your buoyancy control, you will feel as if your body is levitating.
THE CORAL REEFS ARE BREATHTAKING
Brain-like coral, mushroom coral, noodle coral, fan coral, the list goes on and on. Coral reefs are some of the most diverse ecosystems in the world, housing thousands of marine species! Be prepared to be amazed by the many shapes, colors and textures of coral reefs.
ALL THE FISH
At Hanauma Bay alone you are guaranteed to see more than one hundred different fish species. Some travel in schools and others alone. You will be familiar to some fish while others will complete take you by surprise.
IT’S GOOD FOR YOUR HEALTH
Yes, snorkeling is a lot of fun, but it also helps to improve breathing patterns and serves as a decent cardio exercise.
NO EXPENSIVE EQUIPMENT REQUIRED
At the very minimum, a face mask and a snorkel are the only two pieces of gear required to adventure underwater. We recommend fins if you plan to snorkel in an area where the currents are strong.
CONNECT WITH NATURE
By the end of your snorkeling adventure, you will have realized how beautiful and peaceful the ocean truly is. We’re convinced that you will fall in love with the ocean and leave with a better understanding of why it’s so important that we take care of it.
There you have it – six reasons to give snorkeling a try. Here at Hanauma Bay Snorkel Adventures, we offer transportation and gear rentals to make your experience that more enjoyable! May the new year bring you a new hobby – SNORKELING! Mele Kalikimaka and Hau`oli Makahiki Hou, Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!