Step Outside - Hawaii WELCOME TO STEP OUTSIDE! Find the best outdoor fun near you! en-us 30 http://45.55.122.59/ Step Outside - Hawaii 144 144 http://45.55.122.59/ https://cdn-step.americantowns.com/img/stepoutside_logo.gif Fri, 22 Nov 2024 12:49:00 -0600 10 Best Dog-Friendly Hiking Trails of Hawaii! Hawaii is a paradise for those who love the outdoors and their furry companions. From the pristine mountains to the thriving forest, there are a plethora of dog-friendly hiking trails to choose from. Here are the 10 best dog-friendly hiking trails in the Aloha State:

This short service road lending access to the trailhead takes you to the beginning of the Mānana Ridge Trail. With plenty of scenic side trails, this is perfect for taking your pup on a leisurely walk.

The KawaiNui Marsh path in Kailua offers a serene and peaceful walk through the wetlands, with plenty of space for your pup to explore. There's a chance of coming across joggers, bicyclists, and stroller-pushing families but nothing to worry you or your pup. See why this trail is so well loved by all who visit!

On a clear day, you can see Moloka‘i and Lana‘i from the Makapu‘u Point Lighthouse Trail. This is an excellent spot to view migrating humpback whales during the season and seabirds throughout the year. Let you and your pup’s inner wildlife explorer shine on this exciting trail.

A tranquil walk through the lemon eucalyptus trees and many of Hawai'i's native trees, will transport you and your four legged family member to another world . Whilst you're taking in the scenery, catch a glimpse of the remnants of a B-24 bomber that crashed in 1944.

Take your pup on the new and improved Mānoa Falls Trail! After the reconstruction of the trail, the muddy sections were replaced and is now more accessible for all visitors, human and canine alike.

The Koko Crater Railway Trailhead is an excellent place to enjoy the views of east Honolulu. At the summit of Koko Head is a large metal grate that allows you to get above the trees. This trail is fit for the most experienced and agile dogs and their owners.

Take your pup to the North Shore Dog Park for a chance to run off-leash, exercise and socialize with other dog owners. The double-gated entries will provide a safe and secure space for them to explore.

The Mauʻumae Ridge to Puʻu Lanipō is a more difficult but rewarding trail compared to some of the surrounding ridges. With a higher elevation gain, more overgrown plants, and remnants of a B-17 bomber, it’s a great way for you and your pup to explore nature and the numerous sites in Honolulu.

Take your pup off the beaten path with the Waihou Spring Trail, which is a shaded 1.4-mile hike through stunning pine forests to a beautiful spring and waterfalls.

This ten-acre park, situated at the rear of Keana in Kaneohe, is a great place to explore with your pup. It’s filled with lush vegetation and trails, and visitors and their furry companions can explore the stone entry steps, two wood structures, and several Asian-style masonry objects.

]]> http://45.55.122.59/article/10-best-dog-friendly-hiking-trails-of-hawaii http://45.55.122.59/article/10-best-dog-friendly-hiking-trails-of-hawaii Mon, 09 Sep 2024 00:00:00 -0500 10 Best Surf Shops in Hawaii Centuries ago, surfing was born in beautiful Hawaii. Since then, these islands have become practically synonymous with the sport. With unmatched opportunity to catch some serious waves, from Ho’okipa Beach to Hanalei Bay, you’ll need all the best gear before you head out into open water. Here are the 10 best surf shops in Hawaii!    

Surf N Sea is a venerable surf shop that has been in the same North Shore spot since 1965 and voted “North Shore’s Best” by Surfing magazine. Whether you’re looking to buy or rent a board, need gear, or would like to take surfing lessons on the world’s most-renowned shore, Surf N Sea can set you up. 

Some wave riders prefer not to stand all the time, and with Hidentity Surf Shop—a newer entry on the Oahu surf scene—body boarders now have a place where they can get surf tops, leashes, or even custom boards designed and shaped by pro riders.

Named for the famed wave it overlooks, Hanalei Surf Company is the premier surf shop on Kauai. With two stores on the North Shore and one at Poipu, you can pick up the gear you need, as well as a board, near any of the island’s best surf spots.

Catching some waves #surfsup #andyxtinakauai

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Whether you’re heading to Ho’okipa or Honolua Bay, you’ll find the gear you need for shredding at Hi-Tech. They’ll build you a custom board or rent you one if you’re just visiting. Three shops, in Kahului, Kihei, and Pa’ia, means you won’t have to wander far from the waves to grab your gear.

Fred Patacchia checking out Hi-Tech.

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Big Island surfers have been heading to Orchidland Surfboards in Hilo since 1972. They have Big Island’s deepest selection of surfboard and body boards, along with plenty of gear and apparel that you may need. Or, if you just need a board rental, they can accommodate you with that, as well.

Sometimes a simple name says it all, and Maui Surfboards epitomizes that adage: They are on Maui and they sell surfboards. Maui Surfboards also happens to be the oldest shop on the Valley Isle and specializes in making hand-shaped boards. If you want to try before you buy, you can rent one of their designs—they’ll even set you up with lessons, if you need them.

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Shred itttt

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HIC-Hawaiian Island Creations is the Aloha State’s largest homegrown surf shop. Since 1971, HIC has grown to locations on three islands, including Oahu and the Big Island, to ensure that you’ll never be far from an HIC board or the gear you need to hit the waves.

Maui Tropix is another homegrown surf shop on the Valley Isle. All their boards are handcrafted on the island, and are sold along with their MauiBuilt logo gear at three shops on the island—in Kahului, Kihei, and on Front Street in Lahaina. The three locations puts a shop close to all of Maui’s best waves.

Tamba Surf Co. is Kauai’s backyard board company and the locals’ choice when it comes to surf shops. They can sell or rent you a board, teach you how to surf, or even build you a custom board to your measurements and specifications. Tamba is your one-stop for all things surfing on the Garden Isle.

Surfers on the Big Island’s Kona Side can get the boards and gear that they need at Kahalu’u Bay Surf & Sea. The shop specializes in rentals and lessons but also has a wide retail selection. So, whether you need a surfboard for a day or a rash guard for your dad, you’ll find it at Kahalu’u Bay Surf & Sea.

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]]> http://45.55.122.59/article/10-best-surf-shops-in-hawaii http://45.55.122.59/article/10-best-surf-shops-in-hawaii Thu, 22 Aug 2024 00:00:00 -0500 5 State Park Campsites in the West When looking for a campsite in the western United States, it is easy to default to campgrounds in the national parks or national forests—especially if you’re not from the state that you’re planning to visit. But the better-known campgrounds get a much higher volume of visitors, which means you may not get a reservation or, perhaps worse, get stuck in bad site in a packed-to-the-gills campground. One way to avoid such issues is to do some research about state parks in the area. Many are quite close to better-known national parks but don’t attract nearly the same number of visitors. From California's redwood forests to Utah's sweeping canyons, here are just a few of our favorite state park campsites in the West.  

Located midway between Capital Reef and Canyonlands National Parks, Utah’s Goblin Valley State Park offers much of the same type of desert-hoodoo landscape formations, as well as incredible canyoning opportunities, as its neighbors. The campground is not particularly secluded or tree-lined, but it is an excellent gateway to all that the park has to offer. 

Campsite 12 is a tent-only site that is set back a little away from RVs and other campers. The site includes your own shaded picnic table and a brilliant, uninterrupted view of the rock formations that Goblin Valley is known for. Not feeling like setting up and taking down your own shelter? Grab one of the yurts available for rent in the park.

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If you’ve ever been to Hawaii—or planned a trip to Hawaii—you know lodging is not cheap. A great way to avoid exorbitant lodging costs in the Aloha State is to camp. Many of the state’s parks offer excellent camping options and facilities. Those visiting the Garden Isle of Kauai will appreciate the picturesque beauty of Koke’e State Park.

Perched 4,000 feet above the lush vegetation of the Kalalau Valley, with sweeping views out to the Pacific, Koke’e offers several tent camping opportunities in campsites that have been minimally developed. In addition, several cabins are available for rental in the park if you’re hoping for a break from tent camping.

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Lake Cascade State Park in west-central Idaho comprises 86 miles of shoreline along the edge of the eponymous lake. The park is tucked into the region’s wooded mountains near the Payette National Forest. Popular with anglers, Lake Cascade is known as a prime spot for trout and salmon fishing. The surrounding area offers miles of trails for hiking, cycling and birding. The park’s 41 square miles of surface water are ideal for paddling or boating.

Dispersed primitive camping is available at several locations throughout the park. But if you’d like a few more amenities (restrooms, for example), the Blue Heron Campground is tent-only and located on a peninsula that juts out into the lack. Site G is a lakefront site that is set back an away from the other sites, so you have your own little slice of heaven.

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Big Basin Redwoods State Park is just west of—and a world away from—the Bay Area megalopolis in California. It is the state’s first and oldest state park. The park’s main feature, as the name implies, is the ancient, coast redwood trees marching up and down the slopes. Blooms Creek Campground in the park affords the opportunity to sleep among these beautiful giants, which are up to 1,800 years old.

Site 153 is a hike-in site that is away from the main campground but close to a water source. It connects to the Blooms Creek Trail, which in turn, connects to many of the other trails in the park.

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Oregon’s Ainsworth State Park lies within the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area and encompasses spectacular natural features like Horsetail Falls and 620-ft. Multnomah Falls. There are many hiking trails in the park, itself, that take advantage of the fantastic beauty of the Gorge. The park also connects to several trails that lead to other points of interest like the majestic St. Peter’s Dome, which rises 2,000 feet over the river.

The campground at Ainsworth offers six walk-in tent sites that are set back and away from the main campground and connect to trails that allow you to avoid walking through the main part of the camping area. Any one of the sites puts you in the midst of all that the park has to offer but provides the illusion of a secluded site away from civilization.

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]]> http://45.55.122.59/article/5-state-park-campsites-in-the-west http://45.55.122.59/article/5-state-park-campsites-in-the-west Fri, 02 Aug 2024 00:00:00 -0500 10 Best Bait and Tackle Shops in Hawaii Hawaiian waters are renowned for their fishing—so much so that Hawaiian fish names, like ‘ahi and mahi-mahi, have become commonplace. Whether anglers are fishing from shore for dinner and bragging rights or trolling for a trophy marlin, they’ll need the gear to do it. These are our favorite places to get bait and tackle in the Aloha State.

When it comes to bait, gear, and tackle, S. Tokunaga Store has been Big Island anglers’ first choice for nearly a century. Whether you’re trolling for ‘ahi or fishing the cliffs at South Point for ulua, you’ll find everything need—along with advice and conditions—at S. Tokunaga Store.

#WhenYourDaddyIsAFisherman #christensensbigisland2017

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In 2017, Brian’s Fishing Supply won a “Hawaii’s Best” award from the Star Advertiser—and for good reason. Excellent customer service, a wide selection of tackle, and custom gear have kept anglers on Oahu coming back to Brian’s over and over again. You can even take surfcasting lessons from them.

For three decades, New Maui Fishing supply has been a go-to for Valley Isle anglers. Whether you’re trolling for tuna, bottom fishing for opakapaka, or diving with a spear gun, you’ll find the gear you need at New Maui. Their years of local experience is particularly valuable to novice anglers and those new to the island.

With two locations, on the Hilo side of the Big Island and in Honolulu, J. Hara Store is a popular choice for Hawaiian anglers. They sell anything you’d need for onshore or offshore fishing—including fly tying supplies and trolling skirts—and they also repair broken gear. 

For more than 10 years, Five Oceans Seven Seas has been recognized as one of islands’ best shops for custom fishing gear. Whether it’s a rod or a trolling lure, they can build it to your specifications—or help you do it yourself. They also have an extremely well-stocked store for all your “off-the-rack” fishing needs.

On Kauai, Lihue Fishing Supply has the island’s best selection of fishing and marine gear. No matter how you fish—from the shore, on a boat, or under the water—you’ll likely find what you’re looking for. They sell rods, reels, frozen bait and just about anything else you’d need to reel in your supper. 

Maui anglers in Napili or Kapalua can find fishing gear at All About Fish. Whether you plan to cast from the shore or dive for your dinner, All About Fish will likely have what you need. Anglers who are vacationing on Maui will be pleased to find that they also rent fishing gear.

For offshore anglers who fish for sport or as a living, POP Fishing & Marine is the place to go for gear. A longtime favorite for gear among the islands’ commercial fishing industry, including longline equipment, POP has expanded into sport fishing and general marine gear for boaters.

Checking out the lures#abtrailers #abttrailers

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Whether you need diving gear, frozen bait for shore casting, or a simple cane pole to hit the tilapia at the pond behind the Hyatt, West Maui Sports & Fishing Supply can hook you up. Their location on the north end of Lahaina town is within easy walking distance of Mala Harbor or a quick bike ride from Ka’anapali.

Sawada Store is one of those classic Hawaiian shops that sells a little bit of everything, along with a whole lot of fishing gear and tackle. In addition to selling all the onshore, offshore, and diving gear you would need, they also offer reel services and can build you a custom fishing rod.

]]> http://45.55.122.59/article/10-best-bait-and-tackle-shops-in-hawaii http://45.55.122.59/article/10-best-bait-and-tackle-shops-in-hawaii Thu, 28 Mar 2024 00:00:00 -0500 10 Best Watersport Retailers in Hawaii When you live in a state made up of islands—and therefore surrounded by water—you have a tendency to want to get out on the water and play. Whether it’s paddling a canoe, board, or kayak, kite surfing, or popping over waves on a personal watercraft, there’s plenty to do on Hawaii’s waters. These are our favorite places to pick up the gear you need! 

For more than 30 years, Twogood Kayaks has been selling and renting paddle sport products on the calm waters of Oahu’s Windward side. In their shop, you can buy kayaks, stand-up paddleboards, racks to transport them, paddles, and all the gear required to get out on the water. Twogood also offers lessons in case you need a little help getting started.

It doesn’t matter if you’re looking to buy or rent, Adventure Sports Maui will have what you need to get out play in the water on the Valley Isle. They carry kitesurfing and windsurfing gear so you can shred Ho’okipa, as well as kayaks and stand-up paddleboards if you’re hitting the calmer waters of West Maui or Makena. 

If you like to move a little faster in the water, Cycle City Hawaii may have just the answer for you. They are a Kawasaki dealer, so if you’re in the market for a new personal watercraft, head to Cycle City. 

If you’re looking for a kayak or a stand-up paddleboard and the necessary gear, Plenty Pupule can help you out on either the Big Island or Kauai. They sell single and tandem kayaks, equipped for sport or fishing, as well as SUP boards, sailing gear, and outriggers.

If you’re an avid paddle sports fan on Oahu, check out Go Bananas Watersports in Honolulu. They sell and rent all kinds of kayaks, including fishing, touring, and surf boats, in either single or tandem configurations. They also rent and sell SUP boards, racks, paddles, PFDs, and all other gear you need to get out on the water.

Whether you want to fly around the harbor in a Bombard rigid inflatable boat, or paddle peacefully among the humpbacks in the ‘Au’au Channel, Valley Isle Marine Center can help you out. They carry a wide selection of kayaks and accessories, as well as RIBs and motors.

If you’re looking for kayaking, stand-up paddling board, kitesurfing, skim boarding, or windsurfing gear on Oahu, head to Kailua and check out the selection at Hawaiian WaterSports. They also offer gear rentals, lessons, and all the accessories you need.

Folks looking for island-style paddling gear can find a huge selection at Polynesian Paddling Products on the Big Island’s Kona Side. They carry canoes, outriggers, stand-up paddleboards, and of course, paddles. You’ll also find a variety of paddling apparel and accessories in the shop.

On Oahu’s windward side, Foti Bros. sell outrigger canoes and gear. Former championship paddlers, the store also offers paddling lessons and camps. In addition to outriggers and paddles, the dealership also carries kayaks, stand-up paddle boards, and accessories.

Windward Boats, in Kailua on Oahu, is a full-service dealer of Hobie kayaks and pedalboards—which you propel with your feet while holding a handlebar—as well as the respected Jackson Kayak line of boats. They also carry all the paddling (or pedaling) accessories you’ll need on the water.

Christmas is time to accessorize your kayak. Windward Boats is here to help.

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]]> http://45.55.122.59/article/10-best-watersport-retailers-in-hawaii http://45.55.122.59/article/10-best-watersport-retailers-in-hawaii Thu, 28 Mar 2024 00:00:00 -0500 8 Best Archery Outfitters in Hawaii When folks think of the Aloha State, they may think that all the opportunity to catch some wildlife is in the ocean. But if they take some time to look mauka, they’d likely see the wild boars, goats, black-tailed deer, and axis deer that are present in the hills of most islands. And where there is big game, there are archers. Whether you’re heading out to hunt or just hitting the range, these are our favorite spots for archery gear in the Hawaiian Islands.

The Island Archer, on Oahu, is at the fore of the Aloha State’s tightnit archery community. They are a full-service dealer of many top archery brands, including compound and recurve bows. Island Archer also offers complete bow setup and maintenance, as well as shaft and arrow service.

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A hunting we shall go..think pink? #archery #picstitch

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Traditional archers looking for a showpiece need look no farther than Axis Hawaii Archery. Since 2000, craftsman and owner David Weaver has been building custom recurve bows from local woods on the Big Island. If you want to wow your archer friends on the range or in the field, order a custom Axis recurve for yourself.

On Oahu, archers can find great prices on archery gear and equipment, as well as 20-yard indoor range, at Everything Archery. In addition to their deep selection of products, they also offer repair and maintenance for bows and arrows, as well as classes and lessons.

Marvel super hero in training. #archery #hawaii #archerygirls #bullseye #superhero

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Archers in the Big Island’s Upcountry can find all the top archery brands at C&S Hunting Supplies in Kamuela. Every customer who buys a bow from C&S will get one that is properly fitted and matched with the right arrows. Their personalized customer service will ensure that you have just the right gear and accessories for your archery needs.

Hilo archers can find all the archery equipment and accessories they’ll need at J.Hara Store—an awesome one-stop shop for all things outdoors on the Big Island. They carry everything from compound bows to crossbows. They also sell arrows, sights and all other gear. If your bow or arrows need a tune or repair works, J. Hara Store can take care of that, as well.

Prime Sports is another option for archery equipment on Oahu. Archers who visit Prime Sports will appreciate their selection of bows, arrows, tips—including broadheads—and other accessories. If you’re unable to find something in the store, they can probably special-order it for you. 

It’s not just guns and ammo that this Valley Isle shop stocks. Central Guns is the go-to spot for archery supplies on Maui, whether you’re looking for a crossbow, a sight, or a release aid.

Archery equipment just arrived

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Bowhunters on the Kona side of the Big Island or on Kauai can look to Elite Hunters Hawaii for their archery gear needs. They several brands of traditional and compound bows, as well as arrows, sights, and releases. Elite Hunters can also handle repairs, adjustments, and restringing jobs.

]]> http://45.55.122.59/article/8-best-archery-outfitters-in-hawaii http://45.55.122.59/article/8-best-archery-outfitters-in-hawaii Fri, 01 Dec 2023 00:00:00 -0600 10 Best Outdoor Fall Activities in Hawaii It’s less humid and the temperatures are just right—fall in Hawaii is on the way. And that means it’s a beautiful time to get outdoors. With the cooler temps comes plenty of opportunity for outdoor recreation like fishing in Maui, horseback riding, and a visit to the beautiful botanical gardens. So what are you waiting for? It’s time to step outside. Here are the best outdoor fall activities in Hawaii. 

If you love horses, wide-open spaces, and great photos, stop by Kahua Ranch. In this area of Hawaii, cowboys rule. As their home page states, they are “a working ranch that welcomes visitors.” You can enjoy a tour through the lust pastures where you will see sheep, horses and, of course, the beautiful Hawaiian seas. If the tour leaves you wanting more, they also offer a sunset experience with dinner and s’mores. 

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Waimea Canyon is nicknamed the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific.” It must be great fun to ride a bicycle down into the interior then, shouldn’t it? You can do just that with Outfitters Kauai. Along the cruise down, you will stop for photo opportunities and to enjoy all the beauty of Kauai. There are restrictions for safety reasons, which you can view on their website. If bicycling is not your preference, they offer many other options.

If walking through fields of lavender while taking in the beautiful Pacific Ocean sounds like a peaceful respite, stop in to the lavender farm in Upcountry Maui. The views are unmatched, the products are luxurious and the feeling you get is calming. They offer guided tours of the farm as well as a treasure hunt for kids, or the kid in all of us. Their gift shop offers culinary as well as bath and body delights. The farm rents out venue space and they host special events as well.

The experts at Maui Shore Fishing Guides will show you the way around a fishing pole and Maui shores. They provide the supplies, gear and even water and a light snack. They have a few options to choose from to help get the most out of your fishing experience and they even provide transportation to and from the fishing site and your home or hotel. Give this unique experience a try, you will enjoy trying something different.

A pumpkin patch in Hawaii? Yes. Hawaii is home to many farms and this is one of the best. Take a drive past some of Oahu’s most beautiful coastline to the town of Waimanalo. The pumpkin patch is open to the public on weekends in October. Here you can buy farm fresh produce, fresh lemonade and baked goods. If you are up for a challenge, make your way through the corn maze. Wanting to snap that perfect pic? There are plenty of social media-worthy opportunities among the pumpkins, hay bales and scarecrows. With so much to do here, don’t forget to choose your favorite pumpkin to take home. 

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Originally termed Aloha Week, this festival has now turned into a month-long “public celebration to honor Hawaii's heritage,” as its website states. There are many events to choose from as the celebration marches through the month of September. You won’t want to miss the Waikiki Hoolaulea. Thousands of revelers pack the streets of Waikiki in search of food, entertainment and arts and crafts. The month ends in spectacular fashion with the Floral Parade. Its stunning pau horseback riders, marching bands and colorfully adorned hula dancers will have you in awe. Enjoy all the best that Hawaii offers up.

Aa part of the Turtle Bay Resort on the North Shore of Oahu, this is a horse-riding experience you will not want to pass up. With many options to choose from, there is something at every experience level. You will ride along the beach of the resort, next to the beautiful blue ocean. They offer evening and sunset rides, along with a pony experience for your little ones. After your excursion, stop at Ted’s Bakery in Haleiwa for a slice of their pumpkin haupia cream pie. There is no better Fall pair than horseback riding followed by pumpkin pie, Hawaiian-style, of course. 

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If fire pits and camp grounds get you thinking of Fall, then Ho’omaluhia is the place for you. The City and County of Honolulu offer many camp grounds throughout the island of Oahu. Ho’omaluhia offers “the only city campsites that are not on the beach,” which is a great getaway from the salt, sand and crowds. You can wander through the trails onsite, exploring the varied plants and trees. Or, feed the ducks in the pond and there are catch-and-release fishing days. After the sun sets, you can settle in at the fire rings and talk story with fellow campers. Don’t forget the marshmallows.

The season at the Honolulu Polo Club runs from June through the end of October. The Club consists of 27 acres and you can sit in the clubhouse or along the field to watch the action. If you’re feeling up to it, bring some food, as tailgating is permitted. Then sit back and let the Polo players, from across the world, amaze you as they maneuver their horses in pursuit of the win. 

Kona is famous for producing great coffee. So, of course, they would have a festival to celebrate the industry that has brought so much notoriety to the area. In mid-November, visitors will have the chance to learn the history behind this famous cup ‘o joe, from the geological advantages that Kona has to the farmers who lovingly cultivate the plants. There will be farm tours on offer, food vendors and art inspired by the rich and flavorful drink. You could even volunteer and enjoy the camaraderie of fellow coffee connoisseurs.

]]> http://45.55.122.59/article/10-best-outdoor-fall-activities-in-hawaii http://45.55.122.59/article/10-best-outdoor-fall-activities-in-hawaii Sun, 01 Oct 2023 00:00:00 -0500 Best Winter Weekend Getaway in Wai'anapanapa State Park Hawaiian winters are mild in most areas. The rain may increase and you may see a slight dip in temperatures during those months. And, yes, there are some island areas that look like a winter wonderland due to the snow that caps the volcanic peaks. For the most part, however, the skies remain blue and the sun remains vibrant and warm. So, let’s chase the sun over on Maui for our winter weekend getaway. Have you ever heard of the “Road to Hana?” Here’s how to make the most of your visit to Wai'anapanapa State Park. 

There are two types of camping accommodations in Wai'anapanapa, cabin or campervan. The cabins have a two-night minimum requirement and also requires that you make the reservations at least three days prior to checking-in. However, this campground should be reserved up to two months in advance due to the high demand. The cabins are one-bedroom but can sleep up to six people. You can bring your campervan, if you have one, as there are accommodations at this site. Complete details and reservations can be made on the DLNR page linked above.

You will be ready to stretch your legs if you just drove the “road to Hana,” so why not take a hike? The Ke Ala Loa o Maui/Piilani trail is a short three-mile, out-and-back hike along the coast through old lava fields. You will pass the cabins that are available for reservation as well as some gravesites and a distant heiau (temple). Along the trail, you will notice that some of the rocks are smooth and seem purposefully placed. These are a part of the “king’s highway,” named for Chief Pi’ilani who ruled Maui and under whose rule the highway was constructed. There are many photo opportunities on the trail but take a moment to enjoy the sound of the crashing waves and the native birds’ songs. 

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Shore fishing is allowed at Wai'anapanapa State Park. You will need to bring your own gear and adhere to all the rules of the park. Remove all your trash, as well. You can find more information on the Department of Land and Natural Resources webpage. 

Hunting is available in the Hana Forest Reserve, known as Unit A, which is less than five miles from the state park. This hunting reserve is open year-round. Here you can take feral pigs and feral goats by means of rifle, shotgun or archery. To obtain a hunting license in the State of Hawaii, you need to plan ahead. You can purchase your hunting license online, at the Department of Fish and Wildlife’s page. 

A few miles from Wai'anapanapa sits a botanical garden that is well worth the drive and $10 entrance fee. If you are interested in botany, gardening, and how specific plants have transformed Hawaiian and Polynesian history then this is the place to be. This is no flower nursery with large and vibrant blooms everywhere you turn. The plants you will encounter here helped to disperse the Polynesian people throughout the Pacific Ocean. These are life-sustaining and life-saving plants such as hala, ‘ulu and ki—all of which are prevalent throughout these islands. Also here, you will see what is believed to be the largest man-made structure in Hawaii—Pi’ilanihale heiau, which would have served as a temple for religious activities. Today, the heiau is not accessible to visitors but you will, nonetheless be in awe just by looking at it.

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Located a short distance from Wai'anapanapa is a charming cultural center and museum. They do request a donation of $3 per person, a small fee to pay to learn more about the area’s history. In the museum, you can see authentic artifacts, many of which are Hawaiian implements that would have been used for cooking, fishing and other everyday uses. Also, on the grounds are the old courthouse, which is still in use for local matters. Kauhale village is a “replica of a pre-contact chief’s compound” and “consists of living quarters built in traditional style with thatched roofs, including a cooking house, an open meeting house, and a canoe house, which each contain interpretive panels with related imagery,” according to their website.

Stop by food truck Hana Grindz for some ‘ono grinds. Their most popular and beloved dishes are their fish tacos and shrimp banh mi. According to their website, the two tacos are stuffed with “2 Oz of Locally Caught Fish seasoned, seared, and served with pickled onions, and queso fresco, cumin-lime sour cream, and a slice of seasonal Hana avocado.” The banh mi is served with quinoa tabbouleh and kale slaw and the shrimp is farm raised, lemongrass seasoned then placed “on top of a French baguette served with Haiku-grown pickled daikon and carrots, Kamuela cucumbers, lemongrass aioli and Asian herbs” as stated on their site. This place will have you coming back for seconds. 

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Another small food delight on the way to Wai'anapanapa specializes in tacos, spring rolls and pizza. They use locally-sourced food and cook with local fresh ingredients, which come through quite nicely. There are some peacocks that roam around and a nice sitting area. It is a good place to stop and relax. Not only is the atmosphere lush and spectacular but the fresh fruit smoothies will have your mouth watering. People gush over how “the portions are huge and the prices are very reasonable.” Definitely worth a stop!

See the hidden nature of East Maui on a glider. The half hour will give you views of the coastline, most of which is inaccessible and rugged. The full hour tour will take you up to view the crater of Haleakala, the dominating volcano on the island. From there, you will glide back to Hana Airport while seeing many areas that others don’t. It is an experience that will leave you inspired and with wonderful photographic evidence of having seen hidden Maui.

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