Hawaiian Culture

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GUIDES

Find Hawaii’s Hidden Gemstone Museum

Waikiki has its share of unexpected discoveries, and one that truly surprised me was tucked away on Kuhio Avenue. It’s easy to miss, looking more like a multi-story apartment building than a place of public interest. You actually have to walk through a parking garage to find it, which certainly adds an element of intrigue. I’d walked past this spot multiple times without realizing what was inside. Waikiki’s Hidden Gem The entrance is unassuming, with a modest sign that offers little clue to the treasures within. As you step inside the garage, your eyes adjust to see tables laden

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Hawaii’s Historic Kona Low Disruptions

The phones started buzzing around midday on March 11, 2026 — flash flood warnings, road closures, and a Kona low settling in over the islands. By the time the rain stopped four days later, Hawaii County and Maui crews were tallying damage across dozens of roads and bridges. If you’re planning a trip to Hawaii or live here year-round, understanding what a Kona low is — and how to handle the disruptions it brings — can save you a lot of stress. Statewide preliminary damage estimates landed around $23 million, with about $7 million of that on Maui alone.

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Hawaii Facing Historic Flooding Amidst Kona Low Threat

In mid-March 2026, back-to-back Kona low systems dropped more than 60 inches of rain across six Hawaiian islands, triggering the most destructive flooding the state had seen in over two decades. By the time the second storm passed, early damage estimates had already crossed $1 billion in combined public and private losses. This article walks through what a Kona low actually is, how the two storms unfolded, which communities were hit hardest, and what travelers should know about visiting Hawaii during Kona low season. Two back-to-back Kona low systems within ten days — a pattern National Weather Service meteorologists

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Historic Kona Low Triggers Catastrophic Flooding in Hawaii

Two back-to-back Kona low systems dropped up to 49.57 inches of rain on Maui between March 9 and 22, 2026, according to Guy Carpenter’s post-event analysis. That’s more than four years of Seattle’s annual rainfall in under two weeks. This article explains what a Kona low is, why the March 2026 event was so destructive, and what it means for travelers planning a trip to Hawaii. Up to 49.57 inches of rain fell on Maui during the March 2026 Kona low event — the most destructive flooding Hawaii has seen in over two decades. Emily’s Take The March 2026

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Hawaii’s Big Island: Discover 31 Must-Try Eateries

Hawaii’s Big Island offers a diverse culinary landscape, from fresh, farm-to-table creations to casual local eateries and sweet treats. I’ve explored many of these spots, seeking out flavors that capture the essence of the islands. Dining Highlights When I visit the Big Island, I always make time for Merriman’s in Waimea. It’s a bit of a drive from some of the resort areas, but the dedication to local ingredients is truly impressive. The menu feels like a love letter to Hawaiian regional cuisine, showcasing produce sourced from within a close radius. I find myself eyeing almost everything on the

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Discover Maui’s complex history and cultural heart

Maui, known as the Valley Isle, offers a rich tapestry of history and natural beauty, shaped by volcanic activity, Polynesian voyagers, and significant historical events. While its landscape is breathtaking, understanding the island’s past is key to experiencing it respectfully. Island Formation Maui’s dramatic topography is a direct result of volcanic forces. The island was formed by two large volcanoes, Mauna Kahalawai in the west and Haleakalā in the east, which erupted and deposited lava layers over time. These ancient eruptions eventually built the landmass up from the ocean floor, creating the island’s distinct shape. The area between these

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Explore Hilo’s Merrie Monarch Festival and Local Culture

The Merrie Monarch Festival in Hilo, Hawaiʻi, is more than just a competition; it’s a week-long celebration of Hawaiian culture. While the official events draw major crowds, many other venues around Hilo and East Hawaiʻi offer a vibrant tapestry of music, hula, arts, crafts, and cultural experiences. I always find it rewarding to explore these “unofficial” happenings, as they often provide a more intimate glimpse into the spirit of the festival and local life. Grand Naniloa Hotel Hilo During Merrie Monarch Week, the Grand Naniloa Hotel becomes a hub of celebratory activity. I’ve learned that planning ahead is key,

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Discover Hawaii’s arts, culture, and ancient sites

Hawaiian culture offers more than just its beautiful landscapes. A strong cultural revival is underway, with renewed interest in traditional arts, ancient temples, native forests, and coastal fishponds. Resorts, outdoor providers, and many groups are actively promoting long-held customs. Visitors are encouraged to slow down and learn. Canoe Paddling Experience Polynesians were the first settlers of Hawaiʻi, navigating vast distances in outrigger canoes. These canoes, recognizable by their stabilizing float, were a marvel to early European visitors due to the skill of Hawaiian paddlers. Today, canoe clubs keep this tradition alive. Joining a morning paddle with the Kihei Canoe

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Discover Hawaii’s enchanting mix of cultures and experiences

Hawaii offers a captivating blend of Polynesian heritage, Asian influences, and American culture, famous for its stunning beaches, active volcanoes, and the warm spirit of aloha. Most visitors find themselves drawn to the vibrant energy of Waikiki on Oahu, but for those seeking quieter experiences, the island’s North Shore and the neighboring islands of Maui, Kauai, and the Big Island present diverse attractions. Accommodation options are plentiful, ranging from lavish resorts and charming beach bungalows to historic hotels and self-catering suites. It’s important to factor in additional costs for taxes, tips, and resort fees when planning your budget. Oahu,

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Explore Hawaii’s Scenic Drives Through History and Nature

Hawaii’s islands offer a stunning combination of natural beauty and deep cultural history, best experienced through its many scenic drives. These routes not only showcase the breathtaking landscapes but also guide you through significant historical sites and offer insights into local preservation efforts. While many visitors explore on foot, a car unlocks the ability to traverse longer distances and discover hidden gems across the islands. Hamakua Coast The Hamakua Coast, located on the Big Island, is a region steeped in legend and natural splendor. The name itself is tied to Hawaiian folklore, highlighting the area’s rich cultural heritage. Driving

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