Hawaii

Island
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GUIDES

Explore Doris Duke’s Shangri La Estate in Hawaii

Welcome to Shangri La, a truly unique estate in Honolulu that offers a fascinating glimpse into the life and passions of its former owner, Doris Duke. It’s a place that has evolved significantly since it first opened its doors to the public. My visits here have always been memorable, but understanding how the experience has changed will help you appreciate it even more. A Transformative Estate Shangri La sits oceanfront in the Kahala neighborhood of Honolulu, nestled below Diamond Head. It was once the private home of Doris Duke, an heiress known for her global interests and independent spirit.

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Maui’s best attractions and local tips for your visit.

Hawaii offers so many incredible experiences, and Maui, in particular, is a place I’ve come to truly appreciate. As someone who loves immersing myself in a destination and finding those authentic moments, Maui delivers. I’ve spent time exploring its diverse landscapes, from volcanic craters to lush coastlines, and discovered ways to experience its culture without falling into tourist traps. Here’s how I approach exploring the island, focusing on what makes it so special. Experience Hawaiian Culture One of the most engaging ways to connect with Hawaiian culture is through an authentic luau. While there are many options, the Old

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Discover Hawaii’s Big Island top places to stay.

The Big Island of Hawaii, officially Hawaiʻi Island, is a place of incredible contrasts and stunning natural beauty. It’s the largest and youngest of the Hawaiian Islands, and its diverse landscapes mean there’s a perfect spot for every kind of traveler. From volcanic wonders to black sand beaches and lush rainforests, it offers a truly unique Hawaiian experience. Kona: Sunny Shores and Lively Nights When I first started exploring the Big Island, Kona was the place everyone recommended for first-time visitors. It’s located along the west coast and lives up to its reputation with reliably sunny weather and a

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Experience Hawaii’s Islands and Hotels

Hawaii’s visitor numbers in 2026 have shifted: average daily arrivals dropped 5.1 percent during March’s Kona Low storms, and out-of-state cruise visitors fell nearly 40 percent compared to the previous year. International interest has declined too, leaving the islands more reliant on mainland US travelers than at any point in recent years. For visitors who do make the trip, the result is tangible: less crowded beaches, more hotel rooms available, and quieter hiking trails across the main islands. Average daily visitor numbers dropped 5.1 percent during the March 2026 Kona Low storms — the sharpest single-month decline since the

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Save on Your Oahu Vacation with Smart Tips

Dreaming of turquoise waters and swaying palm trees? Oahu might be calling, but the costs can add up quickly. I’ve learned that with a bit of planning, it’s absolutely possible to enjoy a fantastic Oahu vacation without breaking the bank. Here are some smart ways I’ve discovered to make your dream trip an affordable reality. Timing Your Visit One of the biggest secrets to saving money on Oahu is planning when you go. I’ve found that the winter months, especially around the holidays like Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s, are the busiest and most expensive times. Summer and spring

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Your XR tour around Diamond Head awaits.

Hawaii is a place that truly captures your imagination, and one of the most unique ways I’ve experienced its magic is through a cutting-edge virtual adventure. It’s not your typical sightseeing, but it offers a profound connection to the islands’ spirit. Immersive Island Journey When I first heard about this new extended reality tour, I was intrigued. It uses advanced technology to create an incredible sensory experience aboard a bus, and it’s entirely zero-emission, which feels important when you’re exploring such a beautiful natural environment. The journey starts and ends conveniently at DFS Waikiki, taking you on a route

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Explore Kauai’s Emerald Valleys and Na Pali Cliffs

Looking for a five-day itinerary for Kauai? You’ve come to the right place! After exploring this beautiful island extensively, I’ve put together a guide to help you experience its very best. Kauai, with its stunning natural beauty, welcoming culture, and relaxed pace, is truly one of my favorite destinations. This guide covers everything from hikes and scenic views to beach days and delicious food, aiming to make your trip smooth and memorable. Getting Around Kauai Renting a car is essential for truly experiencing Kauai. While public buses exist, they are infrequent, and taxis can become quite expensive. Having your

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Explore Hilo’s Merrie Monarch Festival events and arts.

The 4,000-seat Edith Kanakaʻole Stadium sells out every year for the Merrie Monarch competition nights, a measure of how far the festival has come since its 1964 start as a community economic recovery effort. The Merrie Monarch Festival is named for King David Kalākaua, who ruled Hawaiʻi from 1874 to 1891 and earned the nickname “Merrie Monarch” for reviving music, dance, and celebration in public life after decades of missionary suppression of hula. What began in 1964 as a Hilo community effort to boost the local economy after a devastating tsunami swept the downtown waterfront has grown into the

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Explore Hawaii’s peaceful small towns shaped by geography

Trade winds shape Hawaii’s diverse landscapes, from the ridges of North Kohala to the rainforests of Kīlauea. In places where distance and elevation dictate daily life, the state’s smallest towns have naturally formed around the rhythms of the land. Away from the busy highways and resort areas, these communities embrace a quieter pace, guided by coffee harvests, fishing tides, and roads that often narrow rather than widen. This collection explores 13 towns where life is deeply connected to geography and defined by everyday routines rather than spectacle. From upcountry ranches to coastal villages and settlements nestled in volcanic forests,

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Hike volcanic landscapes on Hawaiian islands.

Maui and O’ahu might be bywords for paradise, but if you’re looking for alternatives, then there are plenty of brilliant places like Hawaii to experience. Whether you’re searching for world class surf or an island pace of life, a visit to one of these 10 places will ensure you get your very own slice of paradise. US Virgin Islands Laden with remote white sand beaches and luxurious resorts alike, the US Virgin Islands are one of the best alternatives to Hawaii. The largest of these Caribbean islands, St Croix, is home to quaint cobblestoned streets, rewarding hikes that lead

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