Hawaii Magazine Spring 2024 by aio Hawaiʻi

2024 READERS’ CHOICE

BEST THE BEST

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Best Hotels, Beaches, Hikes, Shave Ice and More on Every Island! PAGE 30

HIKING THE TALLEST PEAK ON O‘AHU P.18 PERPETUATING THE ART OF LAU HALA WEAVING P.65

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30 2024 Readersʼ Choice Awards We heard you—and here are the winners of our 12th annual Readers’ Choice Awards, from beaches to plate lunches, from lū‘au shows to poke shops. Some are surprises, others are old favorites. Altogether, this list represents the best of the best in Hawai‘i—chosen by the best readers in the world. BY H AWAI ‘I M AGAZ INE STA F F

65 Elevating Ulana How the weavers of Hui ‘Ala Hīnano and Hui Waianuhea o ka Pua Hala are elevating and perpetuating the art of ulana lau hala.

photo: aaron k. yoshino

BY J AD E SNOW

HAWA I ‘ I M A G A Z I N E

IN THIS ISSUE ISLAND HOPPING 18 O‘ahu: O‘ahuʼs Peak A trek to the island’s highest point, which takes you through a verdant native cloud forest, is challenging but well worth the effort for adventurous hikers. BY GRACE M AE DA

21 Maui: Frozen in Time The century-old Tasaka Guri Guri in Kahului serves up scoops of sweet nostalgia. BY ASH LE Y P ROBST

24 Kaua‘i: The Unexpected Bookstore A look back at Talk Story Bookstore— the westernmost bookstore in the country— as it approaches its 20th anniversary. BY J AM E S N AKAMUR A

27 Hawai‘i Island: Goat Therapy At Honomū Goat Dairy, you can do more than just buy farmstead cheeses and soaps. You can play with baby goats, too. BY CAT H E RI N E TOTH FOX

DEPARTMENTS 11 Editor’s Page

70 Kau Kau

A Love Letter to Maui

Bingsu Me

BY CAT HE R INE TOT H FOX

BY MA R IA K A NA I

13 Ho‘omaka 13 14 15 16

Aloha Hula Tasty Travels Market with a Mission Q&A with Master Lei Maker Meleana Estes

72 One Last Look PHOTO BY A A R O N K . YO S H I N O

74 Like a Local Go Nuts BY CAT HE R INE TOT H FOX

2024 READERS’ CHOICE

HAW A I ‘ I M A G A Z I N E

O ‘A H U I S YO UR FAVO R ITE I SL AND !

1300+

Best Hotels, Beaches, Hikes, Shave Ice and More on Every Island!

PHOTO BY MIC HA E L S HA K E LY

PAGE 30

(@michaelshakely)

HIKING THE TALLEST PEAK ON O‘AHU $5.99

Waikīkī Beach on O‘ahu is one of our readers’ favorite beaches.

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P.18 PERPETUATING THE ART OF LAU HALA WEAVING P.65

photos: aaron k. yoshino

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EDITORʼS PAGE

A Love Letter to Maui

My Maui Bests Best Farmers Market

The Valley Isle is a big part of this year’s Readers’ Choice Awards.

The editor eating at Tin Roof Maui.

photos: catherine toth fox

WATCHED THE SUN SPREAD

its rays across the horizon at the summit of Haleakalā on Maui. It was my first visit to the Valley Isle. I was 12. Since then Maui has remained magical in so many ways, from the rugged beauty of Hāna to the glorious sunsets at Mākena Beach. I’ve picked strawberries at Kula Country Farms, surfed at Kā‘ānapali Beach and, most recently, cuddled with alpaca at Maui Alpaca. Magical, indeed. So it was heartbreaking to hear about the wildfires that destroyed Lahaina and parts of Upcountry Maui last August, killing at least 100 people and forever changing the island. It’s one of the deadliest disas-

ters in U.S. history— and one that affected everyone in Hawai‘i. Lahaina survivors are still living in temporary shelters. Many remain out of work. The sudden drop in tourism impacted Maui businesses in much the same ways the Covid-19 pandemic did. In some cases, worse. But if any island can survive—and thrive— after this, it’s Maui. Once the capital of the Kingdom of Hawai‘i, Maui has endured and evolved, from being the hub of a once-thriving whaling industry to becoming one of the world’s most popular visitor destinations. And you love Maui, too, as evidenced by the results of our annual Readers’ Choice Awards. (See Page 30.) While the island didn’t win first place this year, it came in a very close second to O‘ahu. We hope you find your way back to Maui soon; the island could use your support. And when you do, take this issue with you. Trust us, it’ll help.

On a recent trip to Maui, we visited the Upcountry Farmers Market (upcountryfarmersmarket.com), a Saturday morning operation in Kula. We drank Maui-grown coffee, bought local star fruit and apple bananas, and sampled sauerkraut and kimchi made with local produce.

Best Hidden Bakery

A friend of mine took me to Four Sisters Bakery & Catering in Wailuku— and this little bakery rocked my world. The butter rolls, glazed doughnuts and Spanish rolls were the softest, fluffiest and butteriest I’ve ever had.

Best Animal Therapy

Safe travels,

C AT H E R I N E T O T H F O X

Email catherine@hawaiimagazine.com or find me on Instagram at @catherinetothfox.

There’s an alpaca farm on Maui? Yes, there is! Maui Alpaca (mauialpaca. com), an 8-acre farm in Upcountry Maui, offers tours where you can feed, pet and cuddle with these docile camelids. SPRING 2 0 24

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Aloha Hula

photo: aaron k. yoshino

The Kilohana Hula Show brings authentic hula and mele back to Waikīkī.

THE CITY, along with the Council for Native Hawaiian Advancement, launched the Kilohana Hula Show in February at the Tom Moffatt Waikīkī Shell. The free, hourlong performance of authentic hula features dancers from hālau that have competed in the prestigious Merrie Monarch Festival in Hilo and at the renowned Old Lahaina Lū‘au on Maui. It runs from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. Sundays through Thursdays at the amphitheater. For more information visit experiencekilohana.com. — C AT H E R I N E T O T H F O X

SPRING 2 0 24

HO‘OMAKA |

FOOD

Tasty Travels Local hotels and resorts, including the Kaimana Beach, offer culinary classes to help spice up your next Hawai‘i vacation. B Y C AT H E R I N E T O T H F O X

Guests enjoy cocktails— and sunset—at the Kaimana Beach Hotel.

Learn to make various pasta, including agnolotti, at this cooking class.

small pillow-shaped piece of pasta dough and, using a butter knife, presses it down at an angle and rolls it. “Essentially, you want that torn sort of look,” he explains. Then he takes the small piece of dough and puts it on his thumb, making a kind of miniature hat with it. And there you have it: homemade orecchiette pasta. “You’re doing a wonderful job,” Taube says, walking around the kitchen of the Hau Tree at the Kaimana Beach Hotel in Waikīkī. He’s the restaurant’s culinary director and executive chef, but tonight he’s our pasta-making instructor. “You guys are hired,” he jokes, as he watches another group of students filling agnolotti sheet pasta with a truffle-packed fonduta that they made earlier. Another group is busy chopping olives, tearing fresh 14

HA WA I ‘ I M A G A Z I N E

basil leaves and slicing campanelle pasta as it comes out of a commercial extruder. The hotel started offering pasta-making classes as part of its monthly La Dolce Vita Series, in which guests learn to make three different types of pasta, each from a different region of Italy. Taube and his team then prepare a multicourse, family-style dinner with the pasta that guests enjoy with Italian wine pairings in the hotel’s second-floor private dining space, complete with a panoramic view of the sun setting in Waikīkī. The response has been so positive, the hotel extended its classes through 2024. The Kaimana Beach Hotel isn’t the only Hawai‘i hotel that offers culinary classes. The Moana Surfrider, a Westin Resort & Spa in Waikīkī hosts the Moana Masters of the Craft interactive cooking classes, followed by lunch. Past classes have highlighted such dishes as seafood paella, classic gumbo and French macarons. And the Four Seasons

One guest slices campanelle pasta from an extruder.

Resort Hualālai on Hawai‘i Island offers private, hourlong cooking classes for its guests. Taking culinary classes on vacation has been trending for years. These classes allow travelers to learn—in a hands-on way—about unique ingredients, traditional techniques and cultural connections to food. Plus, the meal you help make may end up being the most memorable one of your vacation. La Dolce Vita Series: The Art of Pasta, Kaimana Beach Hotel, O‘ahu. Next events are April 17, May 22 and June 19. Cost is $225 per person, which includes dinner and wine pairings. Visit kaimana.com for more information.

photo: aaron k. yoshino

HEF JOHN TAUBE IV TAKES A

HO‘OMAKA |

SHOPPING

Market with a Mission Through their business, Depo Market, siblings Christopher and Tiffany Chou are opening new doors for adults with disabilities. BY M A L I A YO S H I O K A

Siblings Christopher and Tiffany Chou

photo: aaron k. yoshino

“

OVE YOU AND SUPPORT YOU GUYS, ” a grinning Christopher

Chou says as he signs off from a video clip that’s racked up over 2 million views on TikTok. Like the hundreds of thousands of fans now following him on social media, I’ve found so much joy through posts by Chris and his sister, Tiffany Chou, the team behind Depo Market on Maui. Whether they’re sharing day-in-the-life videos of an adult living with autism in Hawai‘i, tips for caregivers or style advice from Depo Market employees, it’s nearly impossible not to smile when watching. The Chous didn’t set out with the idea of running their own brick-and-mortar in Wailuku. It just evolved that way, from an

idea hatched in 2019 to help Chris earn money from his talent for creating jewelry. Their shop is a way to take Chris’ jewelry and turn it into something larger—a chance to employ other adults with disabilities, to spread awareness about autism and other disabilities, and to let customers shop in a fun and supportive environment. I couldn’t wait to visit the newly opened store on a recent trip to Wailuku. Depo Market is among the growing list of businesses in the U.S. that are offering jobs to people with disabilities. In 2022 about 21% of disabled people in the U.S. were employed, up from 19% in 2021, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. That’s the highest rate since the U.S. began tracking the statistic in 2008. This

year Hawai‘i, along with 11 other states, will participate in the National Expansion of Employment Opportunities Network, an initiative by the U.S. Department of Labor to expand employment opportunities to adults with disabilities. Walking through the pale pink door, my eye is drawn to a lighted alcove in the wall featuring some of Chris’ signature origami earrings. I help myself to a red M&M from a glass jar labeled “Eat Me” while browsing the DIY charm bar, my fingers lingering over colorful enameled charms of cowry shells, monstera leaves and sea urchin shells. With so many fun and whimsical touches around the store, it’s actually the things you might not see that matter most. Detailed labeling and bar codes on every item ensure that employees don’t have to remember prices or materials, the most common things customers ask about in a jewelry store. Employees are also given the freedom to choose which items need to be restocked after a sale and to select their own music for their shifts. And opening and closing checklists help to build employees’ autonomy and confidence, the Chous say. Employees are supported and encouraged to manage the customer service and point-of-sale systems on their own, but support workers are there to assist if needed. (These are other employees who step in and assist those with disabilities when needed.) “It’s important to let people try things for themselves before doing it for them,” explains Tiffany Chou. A small room behind the checkout counter provides a cozy and quiet space for employees who’ve become overstimulated or just need a break. Chris Chou didn’t want signage broadcasting his employees’ disabilities, but, as a very subtle clue—and as a way to educate and engage— you might notice cards explaining autism or Down syndrome tucked in among the jewelry displays. Many of Chris Chou’s pieces are displayed with “Made by Chris” signage. But not all of the Depo Market employees make jewelry—and that’s the point. The Chous say they want to be an example for other businesses when it comes to hiring adults with disabilities. Like the slogan on one of the shop’s popular holographic stickers, Depo Market hopes to spread the message that adults with disabilities are different, not less. Depo Market, 11 N. Market St. in Wailuku, Maui, (808) 419-6699, @depo_market (IG), @depomarket (TikTok), depomarket.org SPRING 2 0 24

HO‘OMAKA |

Q&A

Q&A with Meleana Estes Master lei maker and book author Meleana Estes talks about her book, which is all about Hawai‘i’s flowers. B Y M A R I A K AN AI

HA WA I ‘ I M A G A Z I N E

Q&A

AST YEAR HONOLULU-BASED LEI MAKER AND ST YLIST

Meleana Estes made her debut in the publishing world with her gorgeous book “Lei Aloha: Celebrating the Vibrant Flowers and Lei of Hawai‘i,” a touching homage to lei making and the people in Hawai‘i’s lei community. Brimming with beautiful photos of lei and flowers, the book shares the history of flowers, lei and Island traditions. Estes shares what went behind the writing process, what she hopes readers take away from the book and remembers her late tūtū, Amelia Ana Kā‘opua Bailey, who passed down her lei-making legacy to Estes. What was your journey of writing “Lei Aloha”? What do you hope readers take away from the book?

What do you hope readers take away from the book? I hope they feel inspired to go out and make a lei! photo: aaron k. yoshino

Yes, that is the sad truth about Hawai‘i. Land prices—and even the price of a lei—has gone up so much. There are [fewer] flowers and more backyards being turned into apartments. My advice is to make friends with your neighbor. Offer to rake the yard and ask if you can pick their plumeria. If you want to be a part of this lei-making community, there is a give and take. Offer help. Even I have people who I bother—there’s one uncle who lives in Mānoa [on O‘ahu] and I asked to pick his yellow ‘ōhi‘a, so I brought mango chutney, along with a copy of my book.

It was your grandmother who first taught you how to make lei. What are your earliest memories of making lei with her?

I didn’t want the book to be through my lens. I was just the narrator. It’s Hawai‘i’s book.

Back in 2015, I had this idea to write a book not just about my lei, but about the different styles of lei. At the time, I noticed this resurgence of lei making in Hawai‘i among young people—you would see young girls wanting to wear head lei for graduations and social media in general just showing this new appreciation for lei. I felt it was time to celebrate and highlight the amazing lei community we have here. As I started to write the book, I was so fortunate that because of my tūtū, who was a master lei maker, I was in the position to be able to interview so many different lei makers and cultural practitioners and kumu hula, including Robert Cazimero and Māpuana de Silva. They would talk about their own relationship with lei, and my goal was to compile their stories and their history. I didn’t want the book to be through my lens. I was just the narrator. It’s Hawai‘i’s book.

You talked about a resurgence for younger people in Hawai‘i to make lei. Do you have any suggestions or tips for those people who might live in a condo and might not have access to a garden?

| HO‘OMAKA

I don’t remember a specific moment, but more of her work ethic. I would sit on her concrete step in her basement and watch. I remember her sweeping the floor, just the way that she moved in that basement. The way that she shared lei—she would wrap it in a beautiful ti leaf and use a nosegay the same color as the lei inside. She taught me how to make a lei po‘o, and I remember she was strict with me!

What do you enjoy most about teaching people to make lei?

I always look for creativity. Everyone has their own version of what they’re doing. I think that’s really cute. One of my favorite things is teaching local families and making head lei. It’s neat to see them remembering and saying things like, “Oh my gosh, I haven’t done this since I was 12 years old, or when I used to dance hula, and it’s so nice to do this again.” Knowing that it’s a skill that is coming into practice again in their lives is so cool.

What are some of your favorite materials and flowers to work with? I love working with the puakenikeni lei. Up in Mānoa, my tūtū had four puakenikeni trees that multiplied to seven on the property. That flower feels like family. This interview was edited for length and clarity.

SPRING 2 0 24

O‘ahuʼs Peak

A trek to the island’s highest point, which takes you through a verdant native cloud forest, is challenging but well worth the effort for adventurous hikers. STORY BY GRACE MAEDA

HA WA I ‘ I M A G A Z I N E

O ‘A H U

photos: noah lang / noahlangphotography.com

| ISLAND HOPPING

OR ME , summiting hills or

mountains, regardless of elevation, is worthy of celebration, especially now: I’ve just trekked 4,025 feet to the tallest peak on O‘ahu, and it wasn’t easy. Every year I aspire to complete an epic expedition in Hawai‘i and venture to places where few people have gone. Witnessing nearly untouched, endemic ecosystems provides an unrivaled experience and rare glimpses into the Islands’ natural history. From hiking the Kaupō Gap into Haleakalā National Park on Maui to gazing at the Nāpali Coast from the Awa‘awapuhi Trail in Kōke‘e State Park on Kaua‘i, these less-wandered hikes are some of the most difficult yet remarkable ones. This year my sights were set on hiking to the summit of Mount Ka‘ala. With a peak just above 4,000 feet, it’s the highest point on O‘ahu. The rugged slopes are part of the Wai‘anae Mountains, and carved into them are valleys including Nānākuli, Lualualei, Wai‘anae and Mākaha. Driving along the Leeward Coast, Mount Ka‘ala’s grandeur is striking. For some experienced hikers, 4,000 feet isn’t intimidating, but completing this 6.8-mile out-and-back trail is no small feat. It’s steep. After months—maybe even a year—of trying to decide when to hike Mount Ka‘ala, my friend Patrick and I finally picked a date. We had one week to prepare and it went by fast. Here’s my account: It’s the night before our hike and we’re each filling our backpacks with a sandwich, musubi and a few granola bars. We’re also storing 3 liters of water. It takes most hikers between four and six hours to complete this grueling trek and along the way there’s no water source for refilling. Our goal is to start hiking as soon as the sun is up enough to light the way. By dawn we’re driving past Ka‘ala Farms to the end of Wai‘anae Valley Road, where we embark on our expedition. During the first mile and a half, Patrick and I work our glute muscles plodding up a steep paved path, which leads hikers to a OPPOSITE dirt trail. As we ascend toward the summit, As hikers ascend toward the summit the trees offer ample shade, but of Mt. Ka‘ala, they we also come across clearings with are rewarded with breathtaking views breathtaking views. The sun begins with every step. to peak above O‘ahu’s Leeward Side, casting a golden glow on the verdant ABOVE mountains. It’s enchanting. Across the Ka‘ala Millions of years ago, volcanic acNatural Area Reserve’s 1,100 acres, rare tivity produced this mountain range endemic Hawaiian and over hundreds of thousands of plants and animals are protected. years, wind and rain have sculpted its

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O ‘A H U

magnificent ridges. For centuries these fabled mountains have been the backdrop in ancient Hawaiian legends. After about 2 ½ miles, the trail becomes slippery and the incline steepens. A series of ropes provides essential support for nearly a mile, as we pull ourselves up slick slopes and over rugged boulders. Between all of that hoisting and scrambling, Patrick and I glance back to captivating views. To the south, the island is asleep, the Pacific beautifully still. Past the ridges to the north, we see slivers of Mākua Beach and Keawa‘ula Bay, also known as Yokohama Bay. As we continue our ascent, misty clouds drift in. For the next mile we continue to pull ourselves up ropes. And we’re still sliding in the mud: This hike is strenuous and not for the faint of heart or ill-equipped. It’s challenging and like any hike, it can be dangerous. While it doesn’t Tips for Hiking traverse ridges with hunMount Ka‘ala dred-foot drops, the high eleStart early and prepare to vation and cloud cover make hike for at least six hours. the trail and ropes slippery. Hike with a partner and bring Any misstep could lead to a fully charged cell phone. serious injury. We move careWear sturdy hiking shoes. fully and methodically. Regular running shoes are After nearly three hours of not recommended. hiking, we cross the gate into Bring at least 3 liters of water the Ka‘ala Natural Area Reand pack snacks. serve, a misty native HawaiGloves are useful as there are ian rainforest. Amid the lush a lot of rough ropes. foliage of native plants, I spot Pick up any trash (even if it’s a bright red ‘ōhi‘a lehua. not yours) and leave no trace that you were there. We’re among some of the rarest and most threatened Do not leave valuables in your car. species in the world. But in this sanctuary, these plants are thriving. The hapu‘u fern flourishes in high altitude areas that are constantly moist. Here, the lapalapa is an integral species of the cloud forest, creating the canopy with the ‘ōhi‘a lehua and other native trees. As we pass through a second gate within the reserve, we walk along a narrow boardwalk. Across the Ka‘ala Natural Area Reserve’s 1,100 acres, rare endemic Hawaiian plants and animals are protected. It’s critical to stay on the boardwalk to prevent harm to this fragile ecosystem. For three-quarters of a mile, Patrick and I trek on the boardwalk in silence, save for the sound of plants swaying in the breeze. It’s an ethereal journey through one of Hawai‘i’s three accessible montane wet forests. We cross another gate to exit the reserve and enter a fenced military facility. We’re standing on a northern section of the Wai‘anae Mountains, having just hiked 4,025 feet to O‘ahu’s highest peak. During the summer, I’ve been told you can see the North Shore from here, but today wispy clouds block the view. We’ve completed the trek to the summit in three hours—and as Patrick and I rest on the damp grass, waves of awe, accomplishment and relief wash over us. It takes us three more hours to return to the dirt parking lot where we started. During our descent, we scoot down mudslides 20

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and clench hard to the ropes. With burning calves, a few scrapes, and caked with mud, we’re eager to dive into the ocean. BOTTOM As we approach the parking lot, I This hike is strenuous look back to Mount Ka‘ala. This grand and not for the faint of heart or mountain was standing here long ill-equipped. It’s before us and will be here long after challenging and like we’re gone. And as we look, we reflect any hike, it can be dangerous. on how people have impacted these Islands and the planet. While humans may continue to thrive on this Earth for many generations to come, the endemic trees and species we saw today might not be so lucky. To hike and travel in Hawai‘i provides explorers an opportunity to witness the Islands’ incredible natural history. It also allows us to ask critical questions on how we can all be better stewards as travelers and in our own communities. TOP

View of the North Shore from Mt. Ka‘ala

Born and raised on Maui, Grace Maeda is passionate about sharing stories featuring Hawai‘i’s extraordinary places and culture while encouraging mindful and responsible travel to the Islands. Grace is a regular contributor to HAWAI‘I Magazine.

photos: noah lang / noahlangphotography.com

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Frozen in Time

The century-old Tasaka Guri Guri in Kahului serves up scoops of sweet nostalgia STORY BY ASHLEY PROBST P H OTO S BY A A R O N K . YO S H I N O

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MAUI

UCKED AWAY AT THE MAUI MALL IN KAHULUI , a quaint and vibrantly

colored corner shop named Tasaka Guri Guri takes patrons’ palates on a nostalgic journey. After more than a century in business—and 50 years in this space—the family-run business continues to serve its signature frozen dessert, one only found on Maui. Not exactly sherbet but not quite ice cream either, guri guri is in a category of its own. Each scoop boasts a silky-smooth consistency paired with a flavor profile that seamlessly blends creaminess with a refreshing fruit-forward base. Just one bite transports born-and-raised Maui locals like myself back to their childhoods. For me, it unlocks memories of stopping for a couple of scoops while running errands with my parents or after trips to Fun Factory on days out with my grandma. Originally named “goodie goodie,” as in it’s something good to eat, this delicacy was ultimately dubbed guri guri because it was easier for older Japanese patrons to pronounce. The shop has always only served two flavors: pineapple and strawberry. The latter has long been a customer favorite, but a lot of folks opt for a mix of both. Although there are plenty of copycat recipes floating around online—which list ingredients like lemon-lime soda, guava juice and condensed milk— Cindy Tasaka-Ing, president of the company and great-granddaughter of founder Jokichi Tasaka, says they’re weak imitations of the real thing. The original recipe remains a well-kept secret that’s been passed down through four generations of the Tasaka family. But guri guri wasn’t always the star of the show. “It started as a Japanese confectionery store,” Tasaka-Ing says, referring to the first iteration of her family’s business called Tasaka Confectionary Store. At the original shop, guri guri was served alongside a variety of Japanese treats, including senbei (rice crackers), mochi (rice cakes), yōkan (red bean jelly) and kanten ( jelly derived from algae). The focus on guri guri came after her father, Henry Tasaka, took over operations. “When I was growing up, I remember we were at the Kahului Shopping Center, and then we would have to sleep TOP RIGHT there because my grandma used to watch us,” Tasaka-Ing From left: Cindy recalls, noting she’s maintained that tradition by sometimes Tasaka-Ing, her cousin Kelly sleeping in the back of the company’s current location. “This Kohatsu and her is where our kids grew up, too. On the side, we’d make a litsister Gail Saito. tle play area for them just during the day.” ABOVE RIGHT A true family business, Tasaka-Ing and her sister, Gail Saito, were taught the art of making guri guri by their uncle, Tasaka Guri Guri has been at this making them the sole keepers of the family’s culinary legacy. location at the “We’re the only two that know it now,” she said. (Her sister Maui Mall for five decades. is the vice president of the company.)

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Another enduring aspect of guri guri is its affordability. Despite inflation, the entire cash-only menu remains priced under $10— with the exception of quarts that are specially packaged for interisland travel. The smallest size is two scoops ($1.80); larger options, like the five-scoop ($4.45) and full quart ($9) cost a bit more. For more adventurous eaters, the shop’s Instagram features photos of customers who’ve accepted the challenge of consuming 20 or more scoops of the frozen treat. Although the family intends to keep

MAUI

Twenty scoops of guri guri.

almost everything about their business the same, it did make one recent addition to the menu: a flavor of the month that is only available in quarts, while supplies last. Flavors have included ube, coffee, liliko‘i (passion fruit), lychee and key lime. The idea to experiment with specialty sin-

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gle-batch flavors was born after Tasaka Guri Guri, like many other local businesses, faced unprecedented challenges during the Covid-19 pandemic. The storefront closed for nearly five months before reopening on Aug. 10, 2020. Extra safety measures were put in place and are still being adhered to, including the installation of a plastic barrier, face masks for the workers and a sign in the window that requests only one family enter the shop at a time. Tasaka Guri Guri’s dedication to quality service has not gone unnoticed. Throughout the years, the mom-and-pop shop has been recognized by, among others, the County of Maui, which commended the shop for its more than 100 years of service and commitment to the community as well as its preservation of Japanese culture. To this day, Tasaka-Ing and her family are devoted to upholding core Japanese values like perseverance, hard work and honoring one’s family legacy. “Just keeping with the traditions … we don’t want to sell it or anything,” Tasaka-Ing says of any future plans. “We’ll keep it in the family, and we’ll see how it goes for the next generation.” This frozen delight isn’t just a delicious treat, it’s a cultural cornerstone and a revered piece of the Maui community. And if the next generation is like the last few, Tasaka Guri Guri will be preserving sweet memories and tasty traditions for decades to come.

Tasaka Guri Guri

70 E. Ka‘ahumanu Ave., Kahului, (808) 871-4513, @tasakaguriguri Born and raised in Lahaina, Ashley Probst left Maui to study journalism at Chapman University and explore the world before returning to her roots. When she isn’t writing, she runs a tarot reading business and continues to travel whenever possible.

The Unexpected Bookstore A look back at Talk Story Bookstore—the westernmost bookstore in the country—as it approaches its 20th anniversary

STORY AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY JAMES NAKAMURA

HA WA I ‘ I M A G A Z I N E

K A U A‘ I

N 2002 ED JUSTUS TOOK A CHANCE .

Ed Justus, owner

RS’

CHOICE A

2024

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Voted #1 Value Hotel or Resort In West Kauai there is a special place for your next vacation. Just 59 one- to ﬁve-bedroom cottages on 43 oceanside acres of tropical splendor. Hike Waimea Canyon, take a boat tour to the Napali coastline, or just grab a hammock and listen to the waves. Oceanfront pool and black-sand walking beach. Perfect for families or a romantic getaway.

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At 18, the Virginia native visited Kaua‘i and fell so in love with the place that he extended his visit. He moved around the island—from Kalāheo to Kapa‘a to Hanapēpē—and paid rent during that time by scouring nearby garage sales for rare items and selling them on eBay. Later, a kindly couple he had gotten to know— Elsie and Tom Godby—offered him a free month’s rent in their Hanapēpē warehouse, where he could work on his budding business. “I moved the eBay inventory into the space and it looked like a bookstore and curiosity shop,” Justus says. “So that’s what it became.” When the month was over, he had made just enough money in eBay sales to cover another month’s rent at the warehouse or pay for housing. He couldn’t afford both. “And so I had to decide on what to do,” Justus recalls. “And I went to the Hanapēpē Swinging Bridge and I’m just looking at the sky going, ‘Should I do this? Should I attempt the business, even though it means I’m going to sleep in the van to do this?’ And as I asked that question, a full double rainbow appeared in the sky and I said, if that’s not a sign, I don’t know what is.” So Ed took a leap of faith and paid the next month’s rent at the warehouse and began sleeping in his tapa-patterned 1990 Plymouth Voyager, taking cold showers at Salt Pond Beach Park. “I often recall this experience, doing everything in my

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ABOVE TOP power to get myself out of my homeless situation,” he says. “It always makes me feel grateful for the everyday The bookstore celebrates its comforts. Opportunities present themselves; it’s just up 20th anniversary to us to act on them.” this year. Justus has long since moved his work out of the ABOVE BOTTOM warehouse, which is now occupied by the Anahola GraYou can find nola Co. And he moved out of his van, too, settling into everything from his current space, the Talk Story Bookstore in the heart latest releases to of Hanapēpē. He’s also married now; his wife, Yuriko, is old comic books. a full-time artist whose work is available for purchase at the shop. And they have a cat, Natalie, who they endearingly refer to as “The New Boss”; she monitors the store from behind the checkout stand and even has her own Instagram account. (The owners’ previous cat, Celeste, the original boss, passed away in 2022.) This November marks the shop’s 20th anniversary at this location. The building is one of the relics of a town long gone. What was once called Yoshiura’s General Store—or the Red Store, for its bright red facade—is now a haven for book lovers. Here, you’ll find the latest releases, as well as books on Hawaiian history and nature and so much more: fiction, poetry, old cookbooks, comics, vinyl records, dime-store novels, music sheets, manga comics, video 26

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games. As a nod to its origins, the store’s interior retains the red paint of the old store. But the real magical link to the past is what’s housed within these walls. “I think it’s fascinating how many times people come into the store and they find some obscure book that happens to be that niche interest of theirs and they’re like, ‘I’ve been looking for this for years and I never expected to find it at Talk Story Bookstore, the westernmost bookstore in the United States.’ … I’m like, well, we are a vortex in the Pacific, I guess,” Justus says. The hollow wooden floor sinks slightly, bending and creaking as you wander the aisles of the 1,500-square-foot space. You have to squeeze past other customers, around corners, down narrow corridors of obscura and over items that others left behind in exchange for store credit. “It’s fascinating, what ends up here,” Justus says. “People bring all sorts of stuff in.” You never know what you’ll find. A black-and-white comic book drawn by an old high school classmate? Yes. An issue of Texas Rangers from April 1962? It’s there. A music sheet of Belgian pianist Clément Doucet’s jazz compositions? Sure. Breadfruit recipes, a short-story collection about Kaua‘i’s feral chickens and Charlie Chan paperbacks loosely based on Honolulu Detective Chang Apana? Got those, too. All of it, Justus says, makes for happy customers. “You know, they’re thrilled with what they’re buying. It puts a smile on their face. I mean, I can’t beat it because it’s a great, rewarding feeling. Now that we’re adding happiness to someone’s life, that’s a privilege.” And there’s something to this space that spans the rift created by technology. You remember what it was like to experience relationships with the things you’ve purchased. You forage, hunt and seek, and when you find what you’re looking for, it takes up an actual physical space and serves as a reminder of your journey. There is a quiet sense of discovery when you peruse the shelves, as a reader, traveler or visitor. Discovery is what you’re after. “Humans are foragers. And I think it’s a rewarding experience discovering something that we didn’t know we were looking for,” Justus says. “It’s a part of the human experience.”

Talk Story Bookstore

3785 Hanapēpē Road, Hanapēpē, (808) 335-6469, @talk_story_bookstore

TKTK

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Goat Therapy

At Honomū Goat Dairy, you can do more than just buy farmstead cheeses and soaps. You can play with baby goats, too. S T O R Y B Y C AT H E R I N E T O T H F O X PHOTOS BY NANI WELCH KELI‘IHO‘OMALU

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T WAS THE SIGN along ‘Akaka Falls Road that got me. It read: “Free Goat Therapy.” The visit I had planned to ‘Akaka Falls State Park, less than 3 more miles up the road, was going to have to wait. Honomū Goat Dairy wasn’t here the last time I drove along this stretch of road along the rural Hāmākua Coast. Mary and Bill Henning opened the farm in 2016, churning out soaps, cheeses and caramel with milk from their herd of Nubian goats. The couple, who ran a goat dairy farm in Arizona before moving to Hawai‘i Island, started selling their goat milk products from a tent set up on the side of ‘Akaka Falls Road, trying to capture visitors heading to the waterfall. A few years later, they built a small farm stand on the 15-acre property and painted it a hard-to-miss bright yellow. It stands next to a fenced-in yard stocked with adorable baby goats. This is where the goat therapy happens. “We don’t charge admission to play with the goats,” explains Bill Henning, 65, who spent 20 years as a dog handler for the U.S. Army. “The comment we hear the most from visitors is that this was the highlight of their vacation.” I can attest. It’s already mine. The dozen of baby goats, all a few months old, greet me at the gate, their little tails frantically wagging. For $1 you can buy a small bag of goat treats to feed them—something I don’t have time to do because I’m too busy letting them chew my hair and nuzzle my neck. According to the International Nubian Breeders Association, the Nubian goat is thought to be the oldest species of goat in the world; it hails from Nubia, a desert region encompassing parts of modern-day Egypt and Sudan. The Hennings’ goats, though, also known as Anglo Nubians, are a modern-day mix of traditional native prick-eared British goats and lop-eared Nubians. Like many goat dairy farms—and there were more than 35,000 in the U.S. in 2017—the Hennings raise this breed mostly, because of its milk’s higher-than-average butter OPPOSITE fat content. The milk is also sweeter and Honomū Goat milder, making for a farmstead cheese Dairy's farm stand. that’s light, creamy and, well, not goat-y. ABOVE “Here, try this,” Mary Henning says, Farm owners Bill handing me a tasting spoon of her goat and Mary Henning cheese. This one is called the Korean Misand some of their sile Crisis, a cheeky reference to the false baby goats. 28

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ballistic missile alert that was accidentally issued in Hawai‘i in 2018. The cheese, which takes three days to make, is creamy with bursts of spicy Korean gochujang, garlic, onion and dried herbs. She also hands me a piece of sea salt caramel from her own award-winning recipe. Caramel, she explains, isn’t typically made with milk, so hers is extra creamy and delicious. When the Hennings lived in Arizona, raising goats wasn’t their plan. They had moved there from California in 2008 to be closer to Mary’s dad. Bill built fences and habitats at a wild animal park; Mary worked as a teacher. The goats were a happy accident. “I told Bill I wanted the weeds [in the yard] gone, and he brought home goats,” Mary Henning says with a laugh. It’s true. Their neighbor had a few goats he didn’t want anymore and practically gave them to Bill. He brought five home, and four were pregnant. The couple quickly learned how to milk the goats by

H AWA I ‘ I I S L A N D

hand and, eventually, how to turn their milk into soap and cheese—a result of watching a lot of YouTube videos. By the time they decided to move to Hawai‘i, they had dozens of goats in production and the know-how to create a slew of goat milk products. When they bought the 15 acres of undeveloped land—former sugar cane fields—in Honomū about 15 years ago, the lot was jammed with tall California and guinea grasses. Along with Mary Henning’s brother, who had already been living on Hawai‘i Island, the family cleared the land and built the structures for the goats. They brought over 23 of them in a shipping container used to bring Hawai‘i cattle to Mainland feeding lots. (The shipping company didn’t separate the goats by sex, as instructed, so the Hennings wound up with double the goats five months later. Bill calls it the Love Boat.) The farm doesn’t offer any tours—there’s nothing much to see, Bill Henning says—but the free goat therapy is enough for visitors, even wary ones, to stop by. And maybe they’ll wander into the shop. And they might buy some fudge or caramel or a bar of handmade small-batch soap. Or maybe not—and they’ll

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leave with a fond memory of their Hawai‘i Island vacation. That’s great, too. I want to sample more of the farm’s cheeses—the feta looks particularly delicious—and get a bag of caramels to TOP ABOVE take back to O‘ahu. But I’m struggling to leave the baby Honomū’s goat goats, with their breed’s signature droopy ears and capricheese is light and creamy. cious personalities. A chocolate-brown kid climbs into my lap and gnaws on my earlobe. Another lop-eared blackBELOW and-white cutie headbutts my fanny pack. I’m seriously in Even the soaps heaven. are made from The kids will grow to at least 30 inches tall; the fegoat milk. males will weigh over 130 pounds and the males 175. The Hennings’ goats are the only herd of registered, purebred Nubian goats producing specialty cheeses in the state. (There are other goat dairy farms in Hawai‘i, including Hawai‘i Island Goat Dairy in Āhualoa, about 30 miles up the Hāmākua Coast.) And theirs is the only farm that allows people to sit and play with baby goats—for free. “People plan their whole trip around visiting our farm,” Bill Henning says. Yeah. I get it. TOP LEFT

The baby goat “therapists.”

Honomū Goat Dairy The farm is closed Tuesdays through Thursdays. On days when the farm is open, the baby goat play yard may be closed due to bad weather or muddy conditions. Honomū Goat Dairy, 28-257 ‘Akaka Falls Road, Honomū, (808) 785-5546, honomugoatdairy.com. SPRING 2 024

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READERS’ CHOICE We heard you—and here are the winners of our 12th annual Readers’ Choice Awards, from beaches to plate lunches, from lū‘au shows to poke shops. Some are surprises, others are old favorites. Altogether, this list represents the best of the best in Hawai‘i—chosen by the best readers in the world. Mahalo for voting! FOR MORE ON THIS YEAR’S WINNERS, VISIT HAWAIIMAGAZINE.COM.

HA WA I ‘ I M A G A Z I N E

photo: hakinmhan via getty images

THE RESULTS ARE IN!

2024 READ ER S' C H O I C E | A L L I SL A N D S

ALL ISLANDS

From Hawai‘i Island to Kaua‘i, the winners here represent the best of Hawai‘i, from towns to malasadas to mai tais. Best Island

Best Hotel

Best Airline

1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

1. 2.

1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

O‘ahu Kaua‘i Maui Hawai‘i Island Moloka‘i

Best City/Town 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

Honolulu, O‘ahu Lahaina, Maui Hanalei, Kaua‘i Kailua-Kona, Hawai‘i Island Po‘ipū, Kaua‘i

Best Beach 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

Waikīkī Beach, O‘ahu Kā‘anapali Beach, Maui Hanalei Bay, Kaua‘i Po‘ipū Beach, Kaua‘i Hāpuna Beach, Hawai‘i Island

Grand Hyatt Kaua‘i, Kaua‘i Kā‘anapali Beach Resort, Maui 3. Grand Wailea Maui, a Waldorf Astoria Resort, Maui 4. Hilton Hawaiian Village, O‘ahu 5. Outrigger Waikīkī Beach Resort, O’ahu 6. Halekūlani, O’ahu 7. Hyatt Regency Waikīkī Beach Resort & Spa, O’ahu 8. The Royal Hawaiian, O’ahu 9. Fairmont Kea Lani, Maui 10. The Kāhala Hotel & Resort, O’ahu

Hawaiian Airlines Alaska Airlines United Airlines Delta Air Lines Southwest Airlines

Best Historic Landmark 1.

2. 3.

Pacific Historic Parks, which includes, Pearl Harbor, USS Arizona Memorial, USS Bowfin, USS Missouri, Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum, O‘ahu ‘Iolani Palace, O‘ahu Kealakekua Bay State Historical Park, Hawai‘i Island

World War II Valor in the Pacific National Monument (including the USS Arizona Memorial), O‘ahu King Kamehameha Statue, O‘ahu

Best National Park 1. 2. 3.

4. 5.

Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park, Hawai‘i Island Haleakalā National Park, Maui World War II Valor in the Pacific National Monument (including the USS Arizona Memorial), O‘ahu Pu‘uhonua O Hōnaunau National Historical Park, Hawai‘i Island Kalaupapa National Historical Park, Moloka‘i

VOTED BEST CITY

photo: art wager via getty images

HONOLULU Honolulu, the capital city of Hawai‘i, is a place of diversity, both racially and culturally. And it’s a city that thrives. From the streets of Chinatown, with its eclectic mix of bars, galleries and bistros, to the neighborhood eateries and shops in Kaimukī, Honolulu and its unique districts provide a never-ending supply of things to do for visitors and residents alike. And despite its big-city status, at least in the Islands, Honolulu is surrounded by nature. From the shores of Waikīkī Beach to hiking trails that snake up the Ko‘olau Mountains, and all of the gardens and parks in between, there are dozens of places you can go to forget that you’re in the city—in the city.

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2024 RE AD E R S' C H O I C E | A LL ISL A ND S

BEST NEW RESTAURANT

MONKEYPOD KITCHEN WAIKĪKĪ, O‘AHU

Created by noted chef Peter Merriman, Monkeypod Kitchen has been opening locations across the state—and its newest addition, Monkeypod Kitchen Waikīkī, raises the bar on farmto-table cuisine. It’s the only Monkeypod Kitchen (so far) to serve breakfast, and it boasts a huge selection of craft beers, many of which are local, and hand-crafted cocktails. And you can’t beat the location, either. It opened in the spot vacated by the iconic Shore Bird in the Outrigger Reef Waikīkī Beach Resort, with sweeping ocean views.

1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

Diamond Head State Monument, O‘ahu Waimea Canyon State Park, Kaua‘i Nāpali Coast State Wilderness Park, Kaua‘i ‘Īao Valley State Monument, Maui Kōke‘e State Park, Kaua‘i

Best New Restaurant 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

Monkeypod Kitchen Waikīkī, O‘ahu Happy Opu, Maui JP's Pizza, Kaua‘i The Buffet at Hyatt, O‘ahu Wabi Sabi Soba and Sushi, O‘ahu

Best Restaurant 1. 2. 3.

HAW A I ‘ I M A G A Z I N E

Duke’s, O‘ahu, Maui, Kaua‘i Mama’s Fish House Restaurant & Inn, Maui Roy’s, O‘ahu, Maui, Hawai‘i Island

4. 5.

Merriman’s Hawai‘i, O‘ahu, Hawai‘i Island, Maui, Kaua‘i Beach House Restaurant, Kaua‘i

Best Bar or Lounge 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

Duke’s, O‘ahu, Maui, Kaua‘i Monkeypod Kitchen, O‘ahu, Maui Lava Lava Beach Club, Hawai‘i Island Bar Leather Apron, O‘ahu Mahina & Sun’s, O‘ahu

Best Local Beer 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

Kona Brewing Co. Maui Brewing Co. Kaua‘i Beer Co. Aloha Beer Co. Big Island Brewhaus

Best Local Spirit or Wine 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

Kōloa Rum Ocean Vodka MauiWine Kō Hana Rum Volcano Winery

photo: outrigger resorts & hotels

Best State Park

1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

Hawaiian Sun Lanikai Juice Hawaiian Soda Co. Shaka Tea Hobbs Tea

Best Mai Tai 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

Duke’s, O‘ahu, Maui, Kaua‘i Monkeypod Kitchen, O‘ahu, Maui Mai Tai Bar at The Royal Hawaiian, O‘ahu Mama’s Fish House Restaurant & Inn, Maui Tahiti Nui, Kaua‘i

Best Loco Moco

Best Aloha Wear

Best Jewelry

1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

2. 3. 4. 5.

4. 5.

Leonard’s Bakery, O‘ahu Kaua‘i Bakery, Kaua‘i T. Komoda Store & Bakery, Maui Punalu‘u Bake Shop, Hawai‘i Island Pipeline Bake Shop & Creamery, O‘ahu

Tommy Bahama Hilo Hattie Kāhala Tori Richard Reyn Spooner

Nā Hoku Maui Divers Jewelry Honolulu Jewelry Co. Paradise Collection Denny Wong Designs

Best Coffee Grower 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

Best Malasada 1. 2. 3.

Zippy’s, O‘ahu, Maui, Hawai‘i Island Rainbow Drive-In, O‘ahu Hawaiian Style Café, Hawai‘i Island Koko Head Café, O‘ahu Café 100, Hawai‘i Island

Kaua‘i Coffee Co., Kaua‘i Greenwell Farms, Hawai‘i Island Hula Daddy Kona Coffee, Hawai‘i Island Mountain Thunder Coffee Plantation, Hawai‘i Island Big Island Coffee Roasters, Hawai‘i Island

BEST MAI TAI Duke’s, O‘ahu, Maui and Kaua‘i

Best Swimwear 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

Tommy Bahama Pualani Hawai‘i Pakaloha Hawai‘i Acacia Swimwear Reyn Spooner

photo: aaron k. yoshino

2024 RE AD E R S' C H O I C E | A LL ISL A ND S

Best Local Non-Alcoholic Beverage

MAHALO

For voting for CASTLE on 5 Hawaiian Islands! K A U A‘ I

H AWA I ‘ I I S L A N D

MAUI

CASTLE Kaha Lani Resort

CASTLE Hilo Hawaiian Hotel

CASTLE Kama‘ole Sands

“Value Hotel or Resort”

“Vacation Time Share”

The ISO by CASTLE

CASTLE Waimea Country Lodge

“Boutique Hotel”

“Bed & Breakfast or Inn”

MO LO K A‘ I

CASTLE Kiahuna Plantation & Beach Bungalows

O ‘A H U

“Hotel or Resort for Families”

CASTLE Bamboo Waikiki Hotel

CASTLE Moloka‘i Shores “Moloka‘i - Place to Stay”

“Boutique Hotel”

ADERS’ CHOIC

HAWAI‘I

A W

www.CastleResorts.com ST

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Hawaii Magazine 8” W x 5.33” H BLEED Due: 02/14/2024

2024 RE AD E R S' C H O I C E | O‘A HU

O‘AHU

O‘ahu, the Gathering Place, remains the most visited island in Hawai‘i—and for good reason. The island boasts luxury resorts, award-winning restaurants, popular beaches and hiking trails, museums and nightlife, and lots of things to do for the entire family.

BEST BEACH

Waikīkī Beach

Best Value Hotel or Resort

Best Boutique Hotel

1. 2. 3. 4.

Halekūlani The Royal Hawaiian Turtle Bay Resort Four Seasons Resort O‘ahu at Ko ‘Olina 5. Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikīkī Beach Resort 6. Outrigger Reef Waikīkī Beach Resort 7. The Kāhala Hotel & Resort 8. Moana Surfrider, A Westin Resort & Spa, Waikīkī Beach 9. Prince Waikīkī Resort 10. Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa

HAW A I ‘ I M A G A Z I N E

The Imperial Hawai‘i Resort 2. Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikīkī Beach Resort 3. Outrigger Reef Waikīkī Beach Resort 4. Waikīkī Beachcomber by Outrigger 5. Embassy Suites by Hilton Waikīkī Beach Walk 6. Turtle Bay Resort 7. Ala Moana Hotel by Mantra 8. Holiday Inn Express Waikīkī 9. Aston Waikīkī Beach Tower 10. Romer Waikīkī at the Ambassador

The Imperial Hawai‘i Resort 2. Lotus Honolulu at Diamond Head 3. The Kāhala Hotel and Resort 4. Queen Kapi‘olani Hotel 5. Regency on Beachwalk Waikīkī by Outrigger 6. The Surfjack Hotel & Swim Club 7. The Laylow, Autograph Collection 8. Aqua Palms Waikīkī 9. Espacio, The Jewel of Waikīkī 10. Castle Bamboo Waikīkī Hotel

Best Hotel or Resort for Families 1.

The Imperial Hawai‘i Resort 2. Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa 3. Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikīkī Beach Resort 4. Outrigger Reef Waikīkī Beach Resort 5. Turtle Bay Resort 6. Hyatt Regency Waikiki Beach Resort & Spa 7. Embassy Suites by Hilton Waikīkī Beach Walk 8. Holiday Inn Express Waikīkī 9. Hilton Waikīkī Beach 10. ‘Alohilani Resort Waikīkī Beach

photo: hawaii tourism authority (hta) / vincent lim

Best Luxury Resort

A Brilliant Legacy, a Sparkling Future

Visit KahalaResort.com for Events & Specials

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For six decades, we’ve had honor of welcoming guests to our timeless and luxurious oasis. Please join us for exciting events and festivities throughout 2024 as we celebrate our 60th Diamond Anniversary. Mahalo for making us your home, away from home and helping to shape our enduring legacy.

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Best Hotel or Resort Pool

Best Beach

1. 2. 3. 4.

1. 2.

Halekūlani Turtle Bay Resort The Royal Hawaiian Four Seasons Resort O‘ahu at Ko ‘Olina 5. Outrigger Reef Waikīkī Beach Resort 6. Moana Surfrider, A Westin Resort & Spa, Waikīkī Beach 7. Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikīkī Beach Resort 8. The Kāhala Hotel & Resort 9. ‘Alohilani Resort Waikīkī Beach 10. Hyatt Regency Waikīkī Beach Resort & Spa

Best Hotel or Resort Spa 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

Spa Halekūlani at Halekūlani Moana Lani Spa at Moana Surfrider, A Westin Resort & Spa, Waikīkī Beach The Kāhala Spa at The Kāhala Hotel & Resort Mandara Spa at Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikīkī Beach Resort Infinity Massage & Spa at Outrigger Waikīkī Beach Resort

2. 3. 4. 5.

Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikīkī Beach Resort Turtle Bay Resort Sheraton Waikīkī Hotel The Imperial Hawai‘i Resort

Best Vacation Timeshare 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

The Imperial Hawai‘i Resort Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa Hilton Grand Vacation Club at Hilton Hawaiian Village Beach Resort Marriott’s Ko ‘Olina Beach Club Wyndham at Waikīkī Beach Walk

Best Bed & Breakfast or Inn 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

Diamond Head B&B Mānoa Valley Inn Sheffield House Bed & Breakfast Manu Mele Bed and Breakfast Hula Breeze B&B

3. 4. 5.

Waikīkī Beach Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve Lanikai Beach Kailua Beach Waimea Bay

Best Botanical Garden 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

Waimea Valley Ho‘omaluhia Botanical Garden Foster Botanical Garden Koko Crater Botanical Garden Wahiawā Botanical Garden

Best Campground 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

Waimānalo Beach Park Bellows Field Beach Park Mālaekahana Beach Campground Kualoa Regional Park Kahua Nui-Makai Campsites

Best Dinner Cruise or Sunset Sail 1. 2.

3. 4. 5.

Maita‘i Catamaran Atlantis Adventure Cruises Holokai

Best Extreme Tour 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

Kualoa Ranch Diamond Head Parasail Skydive Hawai‘i Xtreme Parasail Climb Works Keana Farms

Best Farm Tour 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

Dole Plantation Kualoa Ranch Tropical Farms Macadamia Nuts Kō Hana Distillers Kahuku Farms

Best Guided Tour 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

Pearl Harbor National Memorial Polynesian Cultural Center ‘Iolani Palace Kualoa Ranch Roberts Hawai‘i

Star of Honolulu Na Hōkū II Catamaran

BEST GUIDED TOUR Pearl Harbor National Memorial

photo: john seaton callahan via getty images

2024 RE AD E R S' C H O I C E | O‘A HU

Best Hotel for Romance

H A W A I‘ I M A GA ZIN E

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The Imperial Hawaii Resort

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Voted #1 Resort Value #1 Resort for Families #1 Boutique Hotel #1 Vacation Timeshare The Imperial Hawaii Resort embodies the spirit of Hawaiian hospitality, caring for you like Ohana with courtesy, respect, and Aloha!

5 suite types include a mini kitchenette or full kitchen 1(808) 923-1827

vpo@imperialofwaikiki.com

205 Lewers Street, Honolulu, HI 96815

1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

Blue Hawaiian Helicopters Magnum Helicopters Honolulu Helicopters Paradise Helicopters Mauna Loa Helicopter Tours

Best Golf Course 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

Turtle Bay Golf Courses Ko ‘Olina Golf Club Ala Wai Golf Course Hawai‘i Kai Golf Course Mākaha Valley Golf Course

Best Hiking Trail 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

Diamond Head Summit Trail Makapu‘u Point Lighthouse Trail ‘Aiea Loop Trail Kuli‘ou‘ou Ridge Trail Kamanaiki Ridge Trail

Best Live Show 1. 2.

Blue Note Hawai‘i Paradise Cove Lū‘au

HAWA I ‘ I M A G A Z I N E

3. 4. 5.

Hā: Breath of Life Rock-A-Hula Toa Lū‘au at Waimea Valley

BEST HIKING TRAIL Diamond Head Summit Trail

Best Lū‘au 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

Paradise Cove Lū‘au Ali‘i Lū‘au at the Polynesian Cultural Center Germaine’s Lū‘au Aloha Kai Lū‘au Chief’s Lū‘au

Best Museum 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

Pearl Harbor National Memorial Bishop Museum ‘Iolani Palace Honolulu Museum of Art Capitol Modern (State Art Museum)

Best Surf Spot 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

Waikīkī Beach Hale‘iwa Beach Park Diamond Head Pua‘ena Point Beach Park White Plains Beach

photo: andriy prokopenko via getty images

2024 RE AD E R S' C H O I C E | O‘A HU

Best Helicopter Tour

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2024 RE AD E R S' C H O I C E | O‘A HU

BEST SNORKELING SPOT Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve

Best Snorkeling Spot 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve Shark’s Cove The Lagoons at Ko ’Olina Kahe Point Beach Park (Electric Beach) Three Tables

Best Fishing Charter 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

O‘ahu Charter Sport Fishing Hawai‘i Deep Sea Fishing Maggie Joe Sport Fishing Ruckus Sportfishing and Diving Surreal Fishing Charters

1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

HAW A I ‘ I M A G A Z I N E

Wyland Galleries Hale‘iwa Art Gallery Clark Little Gallery Greenroom Gallery Waikīkī Polu Gallery

photo: aaron k. yoshino

Best Art Gallery

Welcome Welcome to to Honolulu’s Honolulu’s Landmark Landmark Hotel, Hotel, Welcome to Honolulu’s Landmark Hotel, Ala Ala Moana Moana Hotel Hotel by by Mantra Mantra Ala Moana Hotel by Mantra

Ala Ala Moana Hotel by Mantra invites you and your loved ones to celebrate life’s moments with us. Join us for your Ala Moana Moana Hotel Hotel by by Mantra Mantra invites invites you you and and your your loved loved ones ones to to celebrate celebrate life’s life’s moments moments with with us. us. Join Join us us for for your your and your life’s moments with Join us for your Ala Moana Hotel by Mantra invites you loved ones to celebrate us. next vacation, staycation or work opportunity at a premium location connected to Ala Moana shopping center with over next vacation, staycation or work opportunity at a premium location connected to Ala Moana shopping center with over next vacation, staycation or work opportunity at a premium location connected to Ala Moana shopping center with over next vacation, staycation or work opportunity at a premium location connected to Ala Moana shopping center with over 350 350 shops and eateries and just minutes from Ala Moana Beach Park. 350shops shopsand andeateries eateriesand andjust justminutes minutesfrom fromAla AlaMoana MoanaBeach BeachPark. Park. 350 shops and eateries and just minutes from Ala Moana Beach Park. Ala Ala Moana Hotel offers every comfort for Honolulu leisure and business travelers. Relax by the outdoor swimming AlaMoana MoanaHotel Hoteloffers offersevery everycomfort comfortfor forHonolulu Honolululeisure leisureand andbusiness businesstravelers. travelers.Relax Relaxby bythe theoutdoor outdoorswimming swimming Ala Moana Hotel offers every comfort for Honolulu leisure and business travelers. Relax by the outdoor swimming pool with a spacious deck for sunning and get refreshed in our fitness center with steam and sauna rooms. pool with a spacious deck for sunning and get refreshed in our fitness center with steam and sauna rooms. Eat, pool with with a a spacious spacious deck deck for for sunning sunning and and get get refreshed refreshed in in our our fitness fitness center center with with steam steam and and sauna sauna rooms. rooms. Eat, Eat, Eat, pool Shop & Stay at Ala Moana Hotel by Mantra. Shop & Stay at Ala Moana Hotel by Mantra. Shop & Stay at Ala Moana Hotel by Mantra. Shop & Stay at Ala Moana Hotel by Mantra. Visit Visit www.alamoanahotelhonolulu.com and check out our special deals. Visitwww.alamoanahotelhonolulu.com www.alamoanahotelhonolulu.com and andcheck checkout outour ourspecial specialdeals. deals. and out Visit www.alamoanahotelhonolulu.com check our special deals.

410 410 Atkinson Drive, Honolulu, Hawaii 96814 United States (808) 955-4811 reservations@alamoanahotel.com 410Atkinson AtkinsonDrive, Drive,Honolulu, Honolulu,Hawaii Hawaii96814 96814United UnitedStates States |||| (808) (808)955-4811 955-4811 |||| reservations@alamoanahotel.com reservations@alamoanahotel.com 410 Atkinson Drive, United (808) 955-4811 Honolulu, Hawaii 96814 States reservations@alamoanahotel.com www.facebook.com/AlaMoanaHotel @alamoanahotelbymantra @alamoana www.facebook.com/AlaMoanaHotel hotel @alamoanahotelbymantra @alamoana www.facebook.com/AlaMoanaHotel @alamoanahotelbymantra @alamoanahotel hotel www.facebook.com/AlaMoanaHotel @alamoana hotel @alamoanahotelbymantra

1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

Ala Moana Center International Market Place Royal Hawaiian Center Kāhala Mall Pearlridge Center

Best Clothing/Fashion Boutique or Store 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

Blue Ginger Tori Richards Mahina Lexbreezy Hawai‘i The Keiki Dept.

Aloha Stadium Swap Meet Hilo Hattie SoHa Living Dole Plantation CocoNēnē Hawai‘i

Best Surf Instruction Co. 1. 2.

North Shore Surf Girls Hans Hedemann Surf School Faith Surf School

Best Beach Gear or Water Gear Rental 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

Waikīkī Beach Services Snorkel Bob’s Surf N Sea Aloha Beach Services Go Bananas

Best Surf Shop

Best Store for Souvenirs 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

3. 4.

Waikīkī Beach Services Big Wave Dave Surf Co.

1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

North Shore Surf Shop T&C Surf Hawai‘i Local Motion Hawai‘i Aloha Board Shop Surf N Sea

1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

Best Resort for a Wedding 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

Uber Roberts Hawai‘i Waikīkī Trolley Biki Hawai‘i Hui Car Share

The Royal Hawaiian Four Seasons Resort O‘ahu at Ko ‘Olina Turtle Bay Resort The Kāhala Hotel & Resort Moana Surfrider, A Westin Resort & Spa, Waikīkī Beach

Best Hotel or Resort Restaurant 1. 2. 3.

Best Wedding Venue (not a beach or resort)

1. 2. 3.

4. 5.

Kualoa Ranch Ha‘ikū Gardens Weddings Ko‘olau Ballrooms and Conference Center Loulu Palm Dillingham Ranch

Best Restaurant 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

Best Transportation Service

Duke’s Waikīkī Roy’s Waikīkī Hy’s Steak House Merriman’s Honolulu Barefoot Beach Café

Duke’s Waikīkī at the Outrigger Waikīkī Beach Resort House Without a Key at the Halekūlani The Beachhouse at the Moana Surfrider, A Westin Resort & Spa, Waikīkī Beach Plumeira Beach House at The Kāhala Hotel & Resort Morimoto at ‘Alohilani Resort Waikīkī Beach

Best Bar or Lounge 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

Duke’s Waikīkī House Without a Key Maui Brewing Co. RumFire Waikīkī Bar Leather Apron

Best Cheap Eats 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

Zippy’s L&L Hawaiian Barbecue Nico’s Pier 38 Marukame Udon Helena’s Hawaiian Food

tsumoto Shave Ice a M EA

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2024 RE AD E R S' C H O I C E | O‘A HU

Best Shopping Center or Mall

FIRST PLACE

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Celebrating 72 Years!

Mahalo for voting us Hawaii’s Best Shave Ice!

MAHALO FOR VOTING US HAWAII’S BEST!

66-111 Kamehameha Hwy, Suite 605 Haleiwa, HI, 96712 | 808 637-4827 www.matsumotoshaveice.com 44

HAW A I ‘ I M A G A Z I N E

KAPAHULU KALIHI rainbowdrivein.com PEARLRIDGE

1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

Leonard’s Bakery Liliha Bakery Kamehameha Bakery Halekūlani Bakery Sugarlina Bakeshop

Best Breakfast or Brunch 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

Liliha Bakery Eggs ‘n Things Koko Head Café Cinnamon’s Café Kaila

Best Burger 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

Cheeseburger in Paradise Teddy’s Bigger Burgers Rainbow Drive-in Kua ‘Āina Burger Chubbies Burgers

Best Farm-to-Table Restaurant 1. 2.

Monkeypod Kitchen by Merriman Merriman’s Honolulu

3. 4. 5.

Kahumana Organic Farm & Café Moku Kitchen Mud Hen Water

Best Food Truck 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

Giovanni’s Shrimp Truck Fumi’s Kahuku Shrimp Truck Big Wave Shrimp Flyin’ ‘Ahi Da Bald Guy

Best Traditional Hawaiian Restaurant 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

Helena’s Hawaiian Food Waiāhole Poi Factory Highway Inn Yama’s Fish Market Haili’s Hawaiian Food

Best Noodle, Saimin or Ramen 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

Marukame Udon Shiro’s Saimin Haven Palace Saimin Ramen Bario Shige’s Saimin Stand

Best Pizza 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

Giovanni Pastrami Big Kahuna’s Pizza Round Table Pizza J. Dolan’s Boston Pizza

Best Plate Lunch 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

Rainbow Drive-In L&L Hawaiian BBQ Nico’s Pier 38 Kono’s Alicia’s Market

Best Poke 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

Foodland ‘Ono Seafood Tamura’s Market Tanioka’s Seafood and Catering Fresh Catch

Best Happy Hour 1. 2. 3.

Duke’s Waikīkī Tiki’s Grill & Bar The Chart House

4. 5.

Kona Brewing Co. Maui Brewing Co.

Best Seafood Restaurant 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

Nico’s Pier 38 Duke’s Waikīkī Roy’s Waikīkī Hale‘iwa Joe’s 53 By The Sea

Best Shave Ice Stand or Store 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

Matsumoto Shave Ice Waiola Shave Ice Island Vintage Shave Ice Island Snow Uncle Clay’s House of Pure Aloha

Best Steak House 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

Ruth’s Chris Steak House Hy’s Steak House Wolfgang’s Steakhouse Waikīkī Morton’s Ala Moana D.K Steak House

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Best Bakery

Known as the Valley Isle, Maui has something for every traveler, from buzzworthy restaurants to golden beaches to the otherwordly landscape of Haleakalā. Best Luxury Resort 1.

Grand Wailea Maui, A Waldorf Astoria Resort 2. The Ritz-Carlton Maui, Kapalua 3. Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea 4. The Westin Maui Resort & Spa, Kā‘anapali 5. Fairmont Kea Lani 6. Hyatt Regency Maui Resort and Spa 7. Wailea Beach Resort 8. The Montage, Kapalua Bay 9. Andaz Maui at Wailea Resort 10. Hotel Wailea, Relais & Châteaux

Best Value Hotel or Resort 1. 2.

Kā‘anapali Beach Hotel The Westin Maui Resort & Spa, Kā‘anapali Royal Lahaina Resort & Bungalows Napili Kai Beach Resort Aston Kā‘anapali Shores

3. 4. 5.

Hyatt Regency Maui Resort and Spa 7. Sheraton Maui Resort & Spa 8. Maui Beach Hotel 9. Aston Maui Kā’anapali Villas 10. Mana Kai Maui Resort

Best Boutique Hotel 1. 2. 3. 4.

Fairmont Kea Lani Kula Lodge Napili Kai Beach Resort Andaz Maui at Wailea Resort 5. Honua Kai 6. Hāna-Maui Resort 7. Hotel Wailea, Relais & Châteaux 8. Pā‘ia Inn 9. AC Hotel by Marriott Maui Wailea 10. Mana Kai Maui Resort

Best Hotel or Resort For Families 1.

Kā‘anapali Beach Hotel

The Westin Maui Resort & Spa, Kā‘anapali 3. Grand Wailea Maui, A Waldorf Astoria Resort 4. Royal Lahaina Resort & Bungalows 5. Sheraton Maui Resort & Spa 6. Wailea Beach Resort 7. Hyatt Regency Maui Resort and Spa 8. Napili Kai Beach Resort 9. Aston Kā’anapali Shores 10. Aston Maui Kā’anapali Villas

Best Hotel or Resort For Romance 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6.

Kā‘anapali Beach Hotel Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea Grand Wailea Maui, A Waldorf Astoria Resort Andaz Maui at Wailea Resort Wailea Beach Resort Fairmont Kea Lani

7. 8.

Maui Hyatt Regency Resort Sheraton Maui Resort & Spai 9. Royal Lahaina Resort & Bungalows 10. Hāna-Maui Resort

Best Hotel or Resort Spa 1.

Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea 2. The Ritz Carlton Spa, Kapalua 3. Sheraton Maui Resort & Spa 4. Mōhalu by Spa Grande at Grand Wailea Maui, A Waldorf Astoria Resort 5. Spa Helani at The Westin Kā‘anapali Ocean Resort Villas 6. Outrigger Kā‘anapali Beach Resort 7. Wailea Beach Resort by Marriott 8. The Montage, Kapalua Bay 9. The Westin Maui Resort & Spa, Kā‘anapali 10. Aston Kā‘anapali Shores

BEST RESORT FOR FAMILIES AND ROMANCE

KĀ‘ANAPALI BEACH RESORT Located on the golden sands of Kā‘anapali Beach, the Kā‘anapali Beach Resort offers postcard-perfect views right from your lānai (veranda) and watching the sun set below the horizon from the resort is about as romantic as it gets. Keiki (kids) will also love snorkeling and spending lazy days at the beach, and the resort itself has a handful of activities, from surf lessons to hula classes, that will keep everyone busy all day long. 46

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photo: courtesy kā‘anapali beach resort

2024 RE AD ER S' C H O I C E | M AUI

MAUI

LĀHAINĀ STRONG

OLD LĀHAINĀ LŪ‘AU ALOHA MIXED PLATE STAR NOODLE LEODA’S KITCHEN & PIE SHOP

2024 RE AD ER S' C H O I C E | M AUI

Best Hotel or Resort Pool 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

Grand Wailea Maui, A Waldorf Astoria Resort The Westin Maui Resort and Spa, Kā‘anapali Kā‘anapali Beach Hotel Wailea Beach Resort by Marriott Hyatt Regency Maui Resort and Spa

Best Vacation Timeshare Property 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

The Westin Kā‘anapali Ocean Resort Villas Marriott’s Maui Ocean Club Kā‘anapali Beach Club by Diamond Resorts & Hotels Honua Kai Resort & Spa Kama‘ole Sands

Best Licensed Vacation Rental 1. 2. 3.

Kapalua Bay Villas Maui Condo and Home Hale Kai Oceanfront Condominiums

HAWA I ‘ I M A G A Z I N E

4. 5.

Ho‘olei at Grand Wailea Vacasa, previously Condominium Rentals Hawai‘i

Best B&B or Inn 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

Kula Lodge Pā‘ia Inn ‘Īao Valley Inn Lumeria Maui Mangolani Inn

Best Beach 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

Kā‘anapali Beach Mākena Beach (aka Big Beach) Wailea Beach Nāpili Bay Kapalua Bay

Best Botanical Gardens 1. 2. 3.

Maui Tropical Plantation Ali‘i Kula Lavendar Maui Nui Botanical Gardens

4. 5.

Kula Botanical Garden Garden of Eden Arboretum

Best Campground 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

Haleakalā National Park Wai‘ānapanapa State Park Campground Camp Olowalu Kīpahulu Campground Hosmer Grove Campgrounds

Best Dinner or Sunset Cruise 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

Trilogy Excursions PacWhale Eco-Adventures Pride of Maui Ali‘i Nui Sailing Charters Atlantic Adventures

Best Extreme Tour 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

Blue Hawaiian Helicopters Skyline Eco-Adventures Kapalua Ziplines Flyin Hawaiian Zipline Rappel Maui

Best Farm Tour 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

Maui Tropical Plantation Ali‘i Kula Lavender Surfing Goat Dairy ‘Ono Organic Farms Hāna Gold

Best Guided Tour 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

PacWhale Eco-Adventures Valley Isle Excursions Road to Hāna Hāna Tours of Maui Roberts Hawai‘i Heavenly Hāna Kai Kanani Sailing

Best Helicopter Tour 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

Blue Hawaiian Helicopters Air Maui Helicopter Tours Maverick Helicopters Pacific Helicopter Tours Sunshine Helicopters

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Voted one of the Best Pizzas on Maui!

FULL BAR WITH 12 ROTATING LOCAL, CRAFT BEERS ON TAP

Order online at pizzamadnessmaui.com or call ahead (808) 270-9888 for pickup or delivery Open Daily 11am–9pm | 1455 S. Kihei Road | Happy Hour from 2–4pm PIZZA MADNESS OFFERS OFF-SITE CATERING, VENUE HIRE, AND A PRIVATE PARTY STUDIO—GREAT FOR KEIKI BIRTHDAY CELEBRATIONS SPRING 2 0 24

1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

Kapalua Golf, The Plantation Course/ Bay Course Kā‘anapali Golf Courses Wailea Golf Club Maui Nui Golf Club Kāhili Golf Course

Best Hiking Trail 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

‘Īao Valley State Park Haleakalā National Park Kapalua Coastal Trail Waihe‘e Ridge Trail Pīpīwai Trail

Best Waterfall Hike 1. 2. 3. 4.

‘Īao Valley State Park Twin Falls Hike Pīpīwai Trail to Waimoku Falls Bamboo Forest Hāna

Best Live Show 1. 2.

Old Lahaina Lū’au Drums of the Pacific

HAW A I ‘ I M A G A Z I N E

3. 4. 5.

Black Rock Cliff Dive Ceremony at the Sheraton Maui Resort & Spa George Kahumoku Jr.’s “Slack Key Show” Grand Wailea Lū’au

Best Lū‘au 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

Old Lahaina Lū‘au Drums of the Pacific Lū‘au Myths of Maui Lū‘au at The Royal Lahaina Resort & Bungalows Te Au Moana Lū’au at the Wailea Beach Marriott Resort The Feast at Mōkapu

Best Museum 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

Maui Ocean Center Whalers Village Museum Hale Hō‘ike‘ike at the Bailey House Hāna Cultural Center & Museum Hale Pa‘i (aka Lahainaluna Printing Press)

BEST HIKING TRAIL

‘Īao Valley State Park

photo: peter unger via getty images

2024 RE AD ER S' C H O I C E | M AUI

Best Golf Course

Best Zipline

1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

Ho’okipa Beach Kā‘anapali Beach Kīhei Cove Park Launiupoko Beach Park Lahaina Breakwall

Maui Zipline Company Kapalua Ziplines Skyline Hawai‘i Flyin Hawaiian Zipline North Shore Zipline

Best Snorkeling Spot

Best Art Gallery

1. 2. 3.

2. 3. 4. 5.

Kā‘anapali Beach (aka Black Rock Beach) Molokini Crater Honolua Bay Kapalua Bay Maluaka Beach

Best Fishing Charter 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

Maui Fun Charters Lucky Strike Charters Start Me Up Sportfishing Charters Fish Maui All About Fish

4. 5.

Lahaina Galleries Maui Hands Art Gallery Hui No‘eau Visual Arts Center Curtis Wilson Cost Gallery Viewpoints Gallery Maui

Best Shoppping Center or Mall 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

Whaler’s Village The Shops at Wailea Queen Ka‘ahamanu Center Kalama Village Kīhei Pi‘ilani Village Shopping Center

Best Clothing/Fashion Boutique Store

Best Beach Gear Or Water Gear Rental

1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

Honolua Surf Company Mahina Driftwood Maui Holoholo Surf Keani Hawai‘i

Best Store For Souvenirs 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

Beachbumz Tiki and Gift Shop Maui Swap Meet Hilo Hattie Maui Hands Art Gallery Maui Soap Co.

Snorkel Bob’s Maui Dive Shop Boss Frogs The Snorkel Store Auntie Snorkel Beach Rentals and Activities

Best Surf Shop 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

Honolua Surf Company Hi-Tech Surf Sports Maui Surfboards Second Wind Maui Foam Co.

Best Snorkeliung/Scuba/ Surf Rental or Instruction

Best Transportation Service

1. 2. 3. 4.

1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

Maui Dive Shop Snorkel Bob’s Boss Frog’s Maui Diving – Scuba & Snorkel Center Maui Surfer Girls

2024 READ ER S' C H O I C E | M AUI

Best Surf Spot

Kā‘anapali Trolley Maui Bus Uber Roberts Hawai‘i Akina Tours & Transportation

Mahalo to Hawaiʻi Magazine readers for voting Seascape #1 Readers’ Choice! Whale watch & dine while enjoying the sweeping views of Māʻalaea Bay! Award-winning, islandinspired fare featuring fresh, locally-sourced ingredients & lots of aloha! mauioceancenter.com/dine • @seascapemaui

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2024 RE AD ER S' C H O I C E | M AUI

Best Resort For a Wedding

Best Hotel or Resort Restaurant

2. 3. 4. 5.

The Ritz-Carlton Maui, Kapalua Grand Wailea Maui, A Waldorf Astoria Resort Wailea Beach Resort Fairmont Kea Lani Andaz Maui at Wailea Resort

Best Wedding Venue (not a beach or resort) 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

Maui Tropical Plantation Merriman’s Kapalua Olowalu Plantation House Maui Dragonfruit Farm Ha‘ikū Mill

Best Restaurant 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

Mama’s Fish House Restaurant & Inn Merriman’s Maui Hula Grill Roy’s Kā‘anapali Humble Market Kitchin

2. 3. 4. 5.

Duke’s Beach House at Honua Kai Resort & Spa Humuhumunukunukuāpua‘a at the Grand Wailea The Banyan Tree at The Ritz-Carlton Maui, Kapalua Nick’s Fishmarket at the Fairmont Kea Lani The Restaurant at Hotel Wailea, Relais & Châteaux

Best Bar or Lounge 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

Monkeypod Kitchen by Merriman Maui Brewing Co. Hula Grill Barefoot Bar South Shore Tiki Lounge Lehua Lounge at Andaz Maui at Wailea Resort

Best Cheap Eats 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

Maui Tacos 808 Deli Cool Cat Café Sam Sato’s Sunrise Café

Best Bakery 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

Leoda’s Kitchen and Pie Shop T. Komoda Store & Bakery Maui Bread Co. Sugar Beach Bake Shop Halfway to Hāna

Best Breakfast 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

Kīhei Caffe Duke’s Beach House at Honua Kai Resort & Spa The Gazebo Restaurant Huihui, Kā‘anapali Beach Hotel Slappy Cakes

Best Burger 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

Hula Grill Cool Cat Café Teddy’s Bigger Burgers Stewz Maui Burgers Havens

Best Farm-To-Table Restaurant 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

Mama’s Fish House Restaurant & Inn Hāli‘imalie General Store Merriman’s Maui The Banyan Tree at The Ritz-Carlton Lineage

Best Food Truck 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

Thai Mee Up Maui Fresh Streatery Kina‘ole Grill Food Truck Geste Shrimp Truck Dino’s Gourmet On-The-Go

Best Noodle, Saimin or Ramen Restaurant 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

Star Noodle Sam Sato’s Tin Roof Maui Ramen Ya Da Best Pho & Vietnamese

Best Banana Bread 1. 2. 3.

HAWA I ‘ I M A G A Z I N E

Aunty Sandy’s Banana Bread Halfway to Hāna Leoda’s Kitchen and Pie Shop

4. 5.

Maui Bread Co. Julia’s Best Banana Bread

Best Pizza 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

Flatbread Co. Pizza Madness Maui Marlow Dollie’s Pub & Café Monkeypod Kitchen by Merriman

Best Poke 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

Foodland Tamura’s Market Fish Market Maui South Maui Fish Co. Takamiya Market

Best Happy Hour 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

Maui Brewing Co. Duke‘s Maui Kimo’s Maui Roy’s Kā‘anapali Bistro Casanova

Best Seafood Restaurant 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

Mama’s Fish House Restaurant & Inn Pā‘ia Fish Market Hula Grill Nick’s Fishmarket Seascape Mā'alaea Restaurant

Best Shave Ice Stand or Store 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

Ululani’s Hawaiian Shave Ice Local Boy Shave Ice Surfing Monkey Hawaiian Shave Ice Halfway to Hāna Tobi’s Shave Ice

Best Steak House 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

Roy’s Kā‘anapali Ruth’s Chris Steak House Kimo’s Maui DUO Steak and Seafood Son’z Steakhouse

Moloka‘i, the Friendly Isle, is a step back into time, the perfect island for visitors who want a truly authentic Hawai‘i experience.

LĀNA‘I

The best way to explore Lāna‘i, or the Pineapple Isle, is with a four-wheel drive vehicle, so you can see the rugged and pristine beauty of the island beyond the charming town of Lāna‘i City.

Best Beach

Best Restaurant

Best Beach

1. 2. 3.

1. 2.

1. 2. 3.

4. 5.

Pāpōhaku Beach Hālawa Beach Kapukahehu Beach (aka Dixie Maru Cove) Kepuhi Beach Murphy’s Beach

Best Place to Stay 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

Hotel Moloka‘i Moloka‘i Shores Dunbar Beachfront Cottages Pu‘u O Hōkū Ranch Castle Moloka’i Shores

3. 4.

Hiro’s ‘Ohana Grill Paddlers Restaurant and Bar Kanemitsu Bakery & Coffee Shop Kualapu‘u Cookhouse

Best Cheap Eats 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

‘Ono Fish & Shrimp Truck Kanemitsu Bakery & Coffee Shop Moloka‘i Pizza Café Moloka‘i Burger Mana‘e Goods & Grindz

Best Land Activity or Adventure Tour Co. 1. 2. 3.

Hālawa Valley Falls Cultural Hike Kalaupapa Mule Tour Purdy’s Natural Macadamia Nut Farm

Shipwreck Beach Hulopo‘e Beach Polihua Beach

Best Place to Stay 1. 2. 3. 4.

Four Seasons Resort Lāna‘i Hotel Lāna‘i Sensei Lāna‘i, A Four Seasons Resort Hulopo‘e Beach Park Camping

Best Land Activity or Adventure Tour Co. 1. 2. 3. 4.

Lāna‘i Jeep Rental Trilogy Excursions (Maui) Paragon Sailing (Maui) Lāna‘i Cat Sanctuary

Best Hiking Trail 1. 2.

Pu‘u Pehe (aka Sweetheart Rock) Koloiki Ridge Trail

3. 4.

Kapiha‘a Trail Munro Trail Fisherman’s Trail

Best Cheap Eats 1. 2. 3. 4.

Blue Ginger Café Nō Ka ‘Oi Grindz Lāna‘i Coffee Works Malibu Farm Restaurant & Bar

Best Plate Lunch 1. 2. 3. 4.

Blue Ginger Café Pele’s Other Garden Deli Café 565 Ganotisi’s Pacific Rim Cuisine

Best Plate Restaurant 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

Blue Ginger Café Lāna‘i City Bar & Grille Nō Ka ‘Oi Grindz Lāna‘i Nobu Lāna‘i Malibu Farm

BEST BEACH

KAIOLOHIA,

photo: hawaii tourism authority (hta) / ron garnett

AKA SHIPWRECK BEACH It’s not just the beautiful, isolated shoreline that lures people to Kaiolohia, or Shipwreck Beach, on Lāna‘i. There are numerous wrecks along the shallow, rocky channel off the 8-mile-long beach, including the deteriorating hull of an oil tanker from the 1940s that’s still stuck on the coral reef. Like many remote places on Lāna‘i, you will need a four-wheel drive vehicle to get here. SPRING 2 0 24

2024 READ ER S' C H O I C E | M OLOK A‘I & L Ā N A‘I

MOLOKA‘I

Known as the Garden Isle, Kaua‘i is the oldest and most verdant of the islands, with lush valleys, gorgeous beaches and the stunning Nāpali Coast. Best Luxury Resort 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

Grand Hyatt Kaua‘i Resort & Spa 1 Hotel Hanalei Bay Marriott’s Waiohai Beach Club Kōloa Landing Resort at Po‘ipū Sheraton Kaua‘i Resort

Best Value Resort or Hotel 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6.

Waimea Plantation Cottages Kaua‘i Shores Hotel Marriott’s Kaua‘i Beach Club Hanalei Bay Resort Castle Kaha Lani Resort The Royal Sonesta Kaua‘i Resort

Outrigger Kaua‘i Beach Resort & Spa 8. The Cliffs at Princeville 9. Aston Islander on the Beach 10. Hanalei Colony Resort

Best Boutique Hotel

1. 2.

3. 4. 5.

Kaua‘i Shores Hotel Waimea Plantation Cottages Hanalei Bay Resort Ko‘a Kea Resort on Po‘ipū Beach The ISO by Castle Resorts

Best Hotel or Resort for Romance 1. 2.

The Cliffs at Princeville Grand Hyatt Kaua‘i Resort & Spa

4. 5.

Waimea Plantation Cottages Hanalei Bay Resort Koloa Landing Resort at Poi‘pū

Best Hotel or Resort Spa

3. 4. 5.

Sheraton Kaua‘i Resort and Spa Anara Spa at Grand Hyatt Kaua‘i Resort & Spa The Spa at Ko‘a Kea Resort on Po‘ipū Beach Bamford Wellness Spa Kaua’i, 1 Hotel Hanalei Bay Alexander Day Spa & Salon at The Royal Sonesta Kaua‘i Resort Līhu‘e

Best Hotel or Resort for Families 1.

Waimea Plantation Cottages 2. Grand Hyatt Kaua‘i Resort & Spa 3. Kōloa Landing Resort at Po‘ipū 4. Kiahuna Plantation Resort Kaua‘i by Outrigger 5. Castle Kiahuna Plantation & Beach Bungalows 6. Kaua‘i Shores 7. The Royal Sonesta Kaua‘i Resort 8. The Cliffs at Princeville 9. The Westin Princeville Ocean Resort Villas 10. Outrigger Kaua‘i Beach Resort & Spa

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OF HAWA

2024 RE AD E R S' C H O I C E | K AUA‘I

KAUA‘I

I‘I

S ’ C H O I C E AW

2024

D EA

FIRST PLACE

OF HAWA

I‘I

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Best Vacation Timeshare

Best Botanical Garden

Best Extreme Tour

Best Helicopter Tour

1. 2.

1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

3. 4. 5.

The Cliffs at Princeville Marriott’s Kaua‘i Beach Club The Westin Princeville Ocean Resort Villas The Point at Po‘ipū (Diamond Resort) Hanalei Bay Resort

Best Bed & Breakfast or Inn 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

The Plantation Inn Hanalei Surfboard House Hale Kua Kaua‘i Bed & Breakfast Hale Tūtū Hale Ho‘o Maha Bed & Breakfast

Best Beach 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

Po‘ipū Beach Hanalei Bay ‘Anini Beach Mākua Beach (aka Tunnels Beach) Kē‘ē Beach

2. 3. 4. 5.

Princeville Botanical Gardens Allerton Garden Na ‘Āina Kai Botanical Gardens & Sculpture Park Limahuli Garden & Preserve Smith’s Tropical Paradise

Best Campground 1. 2. 3. 4.

Nāpali Coast State Wilderness Park Kōke‘e State Park Polihale State Park ‘Anini Beach

Best Dinner Cruise or Sunset Sail 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

Capt. Andy’s Sailing Adventures Nāpali Coast Hanalei Tours Holo Holo Charters Blue Dolphin Charters Kaua‘i Sea Tours

3. 4. 5.

Blue Hawaiian Helicopters Kaua‘i Backcountry Adventures Capt. Andy’s Sailing Adventures Kaua‘i Sea Tours Island Helicopters

Best Farm Tour 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

Kaua‘i Coffee Co. Lydgate Farms Princeville Botanical Gardens Garden Island Chocolate Kaua‘i Sugarloaf Pineapple Farm

Best Guided Tour 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

Kaua‘i Backcountry Adventures Blue Hawaiian Helicopters Capt. Andy’s Sailing Adventures Allerton Garden Lydgate Farms

Blue Hawaiian Helicopters Island Helicopters Jack Harter Helicopters Safari Helicopters Mauna Loa Helicopter Tours

Best Golf Course 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

Princeville Makai Golf Club Po‘ipū Bay Golf Course Kukuiolono Park & Golf Course The Ocean Course at Hokuala Puakea Golf Club

Best Hiking Trail 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

Waimea Canyon Trail to Waipo‘o Falls Nounou Trail (aka Sleeping Giant) Kuilau Ridge Trail Māhā‘ulepū Heritage Trail Wai Koa Loop Trail (aka Stone Dam)

Create Lifetime Memories in Kauai

Escape to Hanalei Bay Resort on Kauai’s North Shore, where tranquility and beauty await. Our accommodations are your home away from home, offering stunning views of Hanalei Bay and lush gardens. Our friendly staff will welcome you with warm smiles, ensuring your stay is unforgettable. Discover why we’re the Reader’s Choice Winner and

hanaleibayresort.com

the ultimate vacation destination for your slice of paradise.

@hanaleibayresort | #MyHanaleiBay

1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

2024 READ ER S' C H O I C E | K AUA‘I

Best Live Show (not a Lū‘au)

BEST NĀPALI TOUR

CAPT. ANDY’S

Smith‘s Family Garden Tahiti Nui Live Music McMaster Slack Key Concert Ahi Lele Fire Show South Pacific Dinner Theatre

Best Lū‘au 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

Smith’s Family Garden Lū‘au Lū‘au Kalamakū Tahiti Nui Lū‘au Grand Hyatt Kaua‘i Lū‘au Ali‘i Lū‘au at Sheraton Kaua‘i Resort

photo: courtesy capt. andy's

Best Museum 1. 2. 3. 4.

Kaua‘i Museum Kilohana Plantation Kōke‘e Natural History Museum Grove Farm Sugar Plantation Museum

The Nāpali Coast is the crown jewel of Kaua‘i’s rugged northern coastline, and the best way to experience it is in the capable hands of a local tour guide. For years Capt. Andy’s has been taking people to gaze at the jagged cliffs of the Nāpali, and to sea cave adventures—weather permitting— KAUAI HAWAI'I MAG AD FEB 2024 v1 MECH.pdf 1 2/23/24 1:53 PM and snorkeling off remote beaches.

Estate aan and n d Visitor nd Visit VVi isito sit oorr Center Ceen C enter n ter Farm Tours • Roasting Demonstrations • Tastings • Coffee Education

Visit our Kauai Coffee Estate and experience Hawaii’s number one coffee destination. A place where coffee is sustainably grown and artfully roasted with care for our resources and people.

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Best Nāpali Tour Co. 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

Capt. Andy’s Sailing Adventures Blue Dolphin Charters Holo Holo Charters Island Helicopters Kaua‘i Sea Tours

Best Surf Spot 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

Hanalei Bay Kalapakī Beach Kāhili Beach (aka Rock Quarry Beach) Kiahuna Beach Anahola Bay

Best Snorkeling Spot 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

Po‘ipū Beach Mākua Beach (aka Tunnels Beach) ‘Anini Beach Kē‘ē Beach Lāwa‘i Beach

Best Fishing Charter 1. 2.

Captain Don’s Kaua‘i Sport Fishing ‘Ohana Fishing Charters

3. 4. 5.

Hawaiian Style Fishing Breakaway Rob Arita Bonefish Guide

Best Zipline 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

Kaua‘i Backcountry Adventures Kōloa Zipline Outfitters Kaua‘i Skyline Hawai‘i Shaka Zipline

Best Art Gallery 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

Kela’s Glass Gallery Halele‘a Gallery Island Art Gallery Aloha Art Gallery Tabora Gallery

Best Shopping Center or Mall 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

Coconut Marketplace Po‘ipū Shopping Village The Shops at Kukui‘ula Kukui Grove Center Ching Young Village Shopping Center

Best Clothing/Fashion Boutique or Store 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

Crazy Shirts Hula Girl Blue Ginger Mahina Tropical Tantrum

Best Store for Gifts 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

Sand People Banana Patch Studio Jungle Girl Island Imports Tropic Isle Music and Gifts Bamboo Works

Best Store for Souvenirs 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

Kaua‘i Coffee Co. Hilo Hattie The Kaua‘i Store Kaua‘i Made The Koa Store

2. 3. 4. 5.

1. 2. 3.

4. 5.

Snorkel Bob’s Kaua‘i Dive Kaua‘i Boss Frog’s Kaua‘i Nukumoi Surf Co. Fathom Five Divers

Best Beach Gear or Water Gear Rentals 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

Snorkel Bob’s Kaua‘i Boss Frog’s Kaua‘i Kapa’s Beach Shop Kaua‘i Bound Nukumoi Surf Shop

Best Surf Shop 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

Hanalei Surf Co. Po‘ipū Surf Tamba Surf Co. Nukumoi surf shop Billabong Hanalei

Best Transportation Service 1.

Alamo Rent-a-Car

Grand Hyatt Kaua‘i Resort & Spa Waimea Plantation Cottages Hanalei Bay Resort 1 Hotel Hanalei Bay Kōloa Landing Resort at Po‘ipū

Best Wedding Venue (not a Beach or Resort)

1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

HAW A I ‘ I M A G A Z I N E

1. 2. 3.

Hanalei Surf School Kaua‘i Surf School Titus Kinimaka’s Hawaiian School of Surfing Hawaiian Style Surfing Kelley’s Surf School

Thrifty Car Rental The Kaua‘i Bus Roberts Hawai‘i Sue’s Northside Taxi & Tours

Best Resort for a Wedding

Best Surf Instruction Co.

Best Snorkeling/Scuba Instruction

2. 3. 4. 5.

Waimea Plantation Cottages The Beach House McBryde & Allerton Gardens Na ‘Āina Kai Botanical Gardens Wai‘oli Hui‘ia Church

Best Restaurant 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

The Beach House Merriman’s Fish House Tidepools at the Grand Hyatt Kaua‘i Resort & Spa Bar Acuda Jo2 Restaurant

Best Hotel or Resort Restaurant 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

Lava Lava Beach Club Duke’s Kaua‘i Tidepools at the Grand Hyatt Kaua‘i Resort & Spa Red Salt at Ko‘a Kea Hotel & Resort at Po‘ipū Beach RumFire Po‘ipū Beach

Best Bar or Lounge 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

Lava Lava Beach Club Duke’s Kaua‘i Happy Talk Lounge Kalapaki joes Stevenson Library

Best Cheap Eats 1. 2. 3.

Puka Dog Hawaiian Style Hot Dogs Bubba Burgers The Shrimp Station

Chicken in a Barrel Da Crack Mexican Grinds

Best Bakery 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

Kaua‘i Bakery Hanalei Bread Co. Kīlauea Bakery & Pizza The Right Slice Haole Girl Island Sweets

2. 3. 4. 5.

Lava Lava Beach Club at the Kaua‘i Shores Hotel Kalāheo Café & Coffee Co. Kountry Kitchen Tip Top Cafe Ānuenue Café

Best Burger 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

Merriman’s Fish House Hukilau Lānai Kaua‘i ‘Ono Bar Acuda Fish Bar Deli

Best Food Truck

Best Breakfast 1.

Best Farm-to-Table Restaurant

Bubba Burgers Kenji Burger Kalypso Island Bar & Grill Street Burger Kickshaws

1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

Porky’s Kaua‘i Fresh Bite Kaua‘i Al Pastor Tacos Kickshaws Chip Wrecked

Best Noodle, Saimin or Ramen 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

Kaua‘i Ramen Pho Kaua‘i Wailua Drive In Aloha Ramen AMA

Best Pizza 1. 2. 3.

Brick Oven Pizza Kilauea Bakery & Pizzeria Volcano Pizza Kaua‘i

4. 5.

Hideaways Pizza Pub Scorpacciata

Best Plate Lunch 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

Kōloa Fish Market Pono Market Mark’s Place Hanalei Taro & Juice Co. Sueoka Store

Best Poke 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

Foodland Kōloa Fish Market Hanalei Poke Pono Market Ishihara Market

Best Happy Hour 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

Lava Lava Beach Club Duke’s Kaua‘i Kalapaki Joe’s Keoki’s Paradise RumFire Kaua‘i

Best Seafood Restaurant 1. 2.

3. 4. 5.

The Beach House The Dolphin Po‘ipū Keoki’s Paradise

2024 READ ER S' C H O I C E | K AUA‘I

4. 5.

Best Shave Ice Stand or Store 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

JoJo’s Shave Ice Wailua Shave Ice Uncle’s Shave Ice The Fresh Shave Wishing Well Shave Ice

Best Steak House 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

Duke’s Kaua‘i Bull Shed Restaurant The Beach House Kalaheo Steak House Wrangler’s Steakhouse

Best General Store 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

ABC Stores Foodland Whalers General Store Sueoka Store Hee Fat General Store

Merriman’s Fish House Duke’s Kaua‘i

M A H A LO

VOTED BEST OF KAUA'I Nestled on the sunny South Shore of Kaua‘i in the heart of Poipu, The Shops at Kukui‘ula is the island’s premier shopping and dining destination. The center is home to unique shops and boutiques, award-winning restaurants and contemporary art galleries. Celebrate the aloha spirit at our signature events: Kaua‘i Culinary Market on Wednesdays, Kanikapila Live Music on Fridays and quarterly Flavors of Kukui‘ula events.

2829 ALA KALANIKAUMAKA P O ' I P U, K AUA' I • 8 0 8 . 74 2 .9 5 4 5 THESHOPSATKUKUIULA.COM

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2024 RE AD E R S' C H O I C E | HAWA I‘I ISL A ND

HAWAI‘I ISLAND

Commonly known as the Big Island, Hawai‘i Island is the epicenter of volcanic activity in Hawai‘i, and Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park is one of the only places you can go in the United State to see active lava flows. The island is also home to waterfalls, quaint small towns and the tallest mountain in the world from base to peak (Mauna Kea).

BEST BEACH

Hāpuna Beach

1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9.

Royal Kona Resort Four Seasons Resort Hualālai Hilton Waikoloa Village The Fairmont Orchid Mauna Kea Beach Hotel, Autograph Collection The Mauna Lani Resort, Auberge Resorts Collection The Westin Hāpuna Beach Resort Outrigger Kona Resort Waikoloa Beach Marriott Resort & Spa

Best Value Resort or Hotel 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6.

HAWA I ‘ I M A G A Z I N E

Royal Kona Resort Hilton Waikoloa Village Courtyard by Marriott King Kamehameha’s Kona Beach Hotel Castle Hilo Hawaiian Hotel SCP Hilo Hotel Aston Kona by the Sea

Outrigger Kona Resort & Spa 8. The Fairmont Orchid 9. Dolphin Bay Hotel 10. Waikoloa Beach Marriott Resort & Spa

Best Hotel or Resort for Families 1. 2. 3.

Royal Kona Resort Hilton Waikoloa Village Outrigger Kona Resort and Spa 4. The Mauna Lani Resort, Auberge Resorts Collection 5. The Fairmont Orchid 6. Royal Sea Cliff Kona by Outrigger 7. Courtyard by Marriott King Kamehameha’s Kona Beach Hotel 8. Waikoloa Beach Marriott Resort & Spa 9. Mauna Kea Beach Hotel, Autograph Collection 10. Aston Kona by the Sea

photo: yinyang via getty images

Best Luxury Hotel

1. 2.

Royal Kona Resort Four Seasons Resort Hualālai 3. The Fairmont Orchid 4. Hilton Waikoloa Village 5. Mauna Kea Beach Hotel, Autograph Collection 6. Outrigger Kona Resort & Spa 7. Courtyard by Marriott King Kamehameha’s Kona Beach Hotel 8. The Mauna Lani Resort, Auberge Resorts Collection 9. Waikoloa Beach Marriott Resort & Spa 10. Kona Village, A Rosewood Resort

Best Hotel or Resort Spa 2. 3.

Kohala Spa by Hilton Waikoloa Village The Spa at The Fairmont Orchid Hualālai Spa at Four Seasons Resort Hualālai

Mauna Kea Spa by Mandara at Mauna Kea Beach Hotel, Autograph Collection Auberge Spa at Mauna Lani Resort, Auberge Resorts Collection

Best Hotel or Resort Pool 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

Royal Kona Resort Hilton Waikoloa Village Outrigger Kona Resort and Spa The Westin Hāpuna Beach Resort Four Seasons Resort Hualālai

Best Vacation Timeshare Property 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

Waikoloa Beach Villas Club Wyndham Kona Hawaiian Resort King’s Land, a Hilton Grand Vacations Club The Bay Club, a Hilton Grand Vacations Club WorldMark Kona

Best Bed & Breakfast or Inn 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

Hilo Bay Oceanfront Bed and Breakfast Hōlualoa Inn Castle Waimea Country Lodge Dragonfly Ranch My Island Bed & Breakfast

Best Beach 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

Hāpuna Beach Punalu‘u Black Sand Beach Mauna Kea Beach Kahalu‘u Beach Makalawena Beach

Best Botanical Gardens 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

World Botanical Gardens and Waterfalls Hawai‘i Tropical Bioreserve and Garden The Pana‘ewa Rainforest Zoo and Gardens University of Hawai‘i at Hilo Botanical Gardens The Umauma Experience

Best Campground 1.

Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park Spencer Beach Park Hāpuna Campground Laupāhoehoe Beach Park Nāmakanipaio Campground

2. 3. 4. 5.

Best Dinner Cruise or Sunset Sail 1.

Mauna Lani Sea Adventures Fair Wind Cruises Body Glove Cruises Paradise Sailing Hawai‘i Tom Barefoot Tours

2. 3. 4. 5.

Best Farm Tour 1. 2. 3. 4.

Greenwell Farms Heavenly Hawaiian Farms Hawaiian Vanilla Co. Ocean Rider Seahorse Farm Lavaloha Chocolate Farm

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Best Hotel or Resort for Romance

KAILUA-KONA, HAWAII • KBXTREME.COM

Award-winning Hawaiian style comfort food & drinks BE

OF HAWA

I‘I

BEST CHEAP EATS • BEST RESTAURANT • BEST BURGER • BEST BREAKFAST BEST LOCO MOCO • BEST BAR & LOUNGE

DINE IN. TAKE OUT. DELIVERY.

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2024 RE AD E R S' C H O I C E | HAWA I‘I ISL A ND

BEST HIKING TRAIL

Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park Kīlauea Iki Trail

↓ LEARN MORE ↓

Best Hiking Trail

2. 3. 4. 5.

Mauna Kea Summit Adventures Hawai‘i Forest & Trail Greenwell Farms Kona Cloud Forest Guided Walking Tours Epic Lava Tours

Best Helicopter Tour 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

HAW A I ‘ I M A G A Z I N E

4. 5.

Best Lū‘au 1. 2.

Best Golf Course

1. 2. 3.

Keauhou Shopping Center 78-6831 Aliʻi Drive Kailua-Kona, HI 96740 www.keauhoushoppingcenter.com

Blue Hawaiian Helicopters Paradise Helicopters Mauna Loa Helicopter Safari Helicopters Jack Harter Helicopter

2. 3.

Kona Country Club Mauna Kea Golf Course Hualālai Golf Course at the Four Seasons Hualālai Hāpuna Prince Golf Course Mauna Lani South

Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park Kīlauea Iki Trail ‘Akaka Falls Loop Trail Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park Devastation Trail Pololū Valley Papokōlea Green Sand Beach

Royal Kona Lū‘au, Voyagers of the Pacific Island Breeze Lū‘au, Courtyard King Kamehameha’s Kona Beach Hotel Legends of Hawai‘i Lū‘au, Hilton Waikoloa Village The Mauna Kea Lū‘au, Mauna Kea Beach Hotel, Autograph Collection Sunset Lū‘au, Waikoloa Beach Marriott Resort & Spa

photo: greg vaughn / vwpics via getty images

Mahalo for your vote!

Best Guided Tour

Best Store for Souvenirs

1. 2.

1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

3. 4. 5. BEST BAKERY

Volcano Art Center Gallery Kailua Village Artists Gallery Genesis Galleries Extreme Exposure Fine Art Gallery One Gallery

Best Shopping Center or Mall

PUNALU‘U BAKE SHOP

1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

Queens’ Marketplace Keauhou Shopping Center Prince Kūhiō Plaza Parker Ranch Center Kea‘au Shopping Center

Best Clothing/Fashion Boutique or Store 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

Hilo Hattie Tommy Bahama Sig Zane Designs Jams World Pueo Boutique

ABC Stores Waimea General Store Kimura Lauhala Shop Basically Books Aloha Pawz

Best Surf Instruction Co. 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

Kona Boys Kona Mike’s Surf Adventures Jacks Dive Locker Kahalu‘u Bay Surf & Sea Hypernalu

Best Snorkeling/Scuba Rental or Instruction Company 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

Snorkel Bob’s Big Island Divers Body Glove Cruises Boss Frog’s Jack’s Diving Locker

Located in Nā‘ālehu on Hawai‘i Island, Punalu‘u Bake Shop is the southernmost bakery in the U.S. But that’s not all it’s known for. The bakery, which first opened in the mid-’80s at Punalu’u Black Sands Beach Restaurant, churns out dinner rolls, pineapple fruit cake, macadamia nut shortbread cookies, malasadas and its popular sweet bread, the recipe of which is a family secret.

Best Museum 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

Kona Coffee Living History Farm Pacific Tsunami Museum Hulihe‘e Palace Lyman Museum Mokupāpapa Discovery Center

Best Surf Spot 1. 2.

photo: aio digital

3. 4. 5.

Kahulu‘u Beach Park Old Kona Airport State Park Honoli‘i beach park Lyman’s Beach Banyans

3. 4. 5.

Best Fishing Charter 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

Bite Me Sportfishing Marlin Magic A‘u Struck Sportfishing Camelot Sport Fishing Fire Hatt Sportfishing Charter

Best Zipline 1. 2.

Best Snorkeling Spot

1. 2.

Kealakekua Bay Two Step, Hōnaunau Bay

Kahalu‘u Beach Park Mauna Lani Beach La‘aloa Beach (aka Magic Sands)

Kohala Zipline Botanical World Adventures Umauma Falls Zipline & Rappel Experience Skyline Hawai‘i Eco-Adventures Kapohokine SPRING 2 0 24

2024 READ ER S' C H O I C E | HAWA I ‘I I SL A N D

Best Art Gallery

Best Wedding Venue (not a beach or resort)

1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

1. 2. 3. 4.

Snorkel Bob’s Kona Boys Boss Frog’s Orchid Land Surf Shop Miller’s Surf Shop

Best Surf Shop 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

Kona Boys Kahalu‘u Bay Surf and Sea Oshima Surf & Skate Orchid Land Surf Shop HIC

Best Resort For a Wedding 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

The Fairmont Orchid Hilton Waikoloa Village Mauna Kea Beach Hotel, Autograph Collection Waikoloa Beach Marriott Resort & Spa The Mauna Lani, Auberge Resorts Collection

Lili’uokalani Gardens Hilo Hulihe‘e Palace Volcano House Nani Mau Restaurant and Gardens Papa Kona Restaurant & Bar

Best Restaurant 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

Don the Beachcomber at the Royal Kona Resort Merriman’s Big Island Roy’s Waikoloa Bar & Grill Island Lava Java Chubby’s Diner

Best Hotel or Resort Restaurant 1. 2.

Don the Beachcomber at the Royal Kona Resort CanoeHouse at The Mauna Lani Resort, Auberge Resorts Collection Brown’s Beach House at The Fairmont Orchid

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Best Beach Gear or Water Gear Rental

FIRST PLACE

4. 5.

‘Ulu Ocean Grill at the Four Seasons Resort Hualālai Beach Tree at the Four Seasons Resort Hualālai

Best Bar or Lounge 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

Don the Beachcomber at the Royal Kona Resort Kona Brewing Co. Lava Lava Beach Club Huggo’s KBXtreme Family Entertainment Center

Best Cheap Eats 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

L&L Hawaiian Barbecue Da Poke Shack Umeke’s Fish Market Bar & Grill Chubby’s Diner 808 Grindz Café

Best Bakery 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

Punalu‘u Bake Shop Two Ladies Kitchen Island Lava Java Tex Drive-In Short N Sweet Bakery & Café

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Traditional Sweet Bread | Dinner Rolls | Cookies | Maladadas www.bakeshophawaii.com | 1-866-366-3501 64

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1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

Village Burger Waimea Hilo Burger Joint Ultimate Burger Cronies Bar & Grill Chubby’s Diner

1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

Merriman’s Big Island Hilo Bay Café Foster’s Kitchen Moon and Turtle FORC

Best Loco Moco 1. 2.

Big Island Grill Hawaiian Style Café

Kona Brewing Co. Big Island Pizza Napoletana Café Pesto Bianelli’s Gourmet Pizza & Pasta James Angelo’s Underground Pizza

Best Poke 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

Da Poke Shack Umeke's Fish Market Bar and Grill Kona Grill House Suisan Fish Market Poke Market

Best Seafood Restaurant 2. 3. 4. 5.

1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

TK Noodle House Kona Ken’s House of Pancakes Nori’s Saimin and Snacks Tetsumen Noodle Club

Best Pizza

1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

Best Farm-To-Table Restaurant

#1 Bake Shop in Hawai’i

1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

Island Lava Java Ken’s House of Pancakes Hawaiian Style Café The Coffee Shack Chubby’s Diner

Ken’s House of Pancakes Chubby’s Diner Café 100

Best Noodle, Saimin Or Ramen

Best Breakfast

Best Burger BE

3. 4. 5.

‘Umeke’s Fish Market Bar and Grill Jackie Rey’s ‘Ohana Grill The Fish Hopper The Seaside Restaurant ‘Ulu Ocean Grill at the Four Seasons Hualālai

Best Shave Ice Stand Or Store 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

Original Big Island Shave Ice Co. Ululani’s Hawaiian Shave Ice One Aloha Shave Ice Co. Scandinavian Shave Ice Gecko Girlz Shave Ice

Best Steak House 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

Roy’s Waikoloa Bar & Grill Ruth’s Chris Merriman’s Fish House Outback Steakhouse Kamuela Provision Co.

photo: aaron k. yoshino

ELEVATING ULANA

ELEVATING ULANA How the weavers of Hui ‘Ala Hīnano and Hui Waianuhea o ka Pua Hala are elevating and perpetuating the art of ulana lau hala.

By Jade Snow

WHILE ATTENDING THE FAMED Ka Ulu

The weaving club president asked his then 12-year-old protege, Kaha‘i Chan, to stand and be recognized. The crowd acknowledged her presence as a poignant first: Chan was among the youngest participants to ever attend the conference. And for Izon and the rest of the attendees, that was significant. “We really need to get the younger generation interested to learn, because what will happen to ulana (weaving) if we don’t start teaching the younger generation or finding ways to get them interested in these practices,” Izon recalls. Looking around the room, he realized the weaving community was largely composed of kūpuna whose passion and diligence had kept the art form alive; it also brought to light the need for new and younger weavers. For Izon, then in his first decade of weaving himself, the message was clear and the moment proved to be a pivotal turning point in his weaving journey. Interest in traditions such as ulana have gained momentum over the past four decades with the resurgence of the Hawaiian language. To keep that momentum going, and to reclaim Hawaiian cultural identity and restore Native practices, education is paramount. That includes redefining public perception of Hawai‘i by bringing time-honored traditions such as ulana into public spaces. This focus on cultural authenticity has inspired new generations of locals and visitors with a vested interest in Hawai‘i to perpetuate Indigenous knowledge. Modern Hawai‘i now offers greater resources and opportunities for cultural learning to flourish. Hotels, boutiques, museums, shopping centers and more now offer lei making, ‘ukulele, hula, and lau hala weaving classes as 66

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entry points to Hawaiian culture. Tradition notes the use of lau hala (pandanus leaves) as the base of many treasured things—from functional home thatching, floor mats and baskets to fashionable fans, bags and hats. In Old Hawai‘i, woven objects were practical and plentiful. Accounts by early explorers and missionaries note the beauty of the plaited goods throughout Hawai‘i. As modern conveniences advanced, however, these prized possessions were at risk of becoming cultural novelties. Items once commonly used in everyday life became precious treasures reserved for special occasions, and the skilled hands of weavers lacked new interest to transfer that essential knowledge. That experience was familiar to Izon’s, whose own introduction to the craft was unlikely. While studying under kumu ‘ōlelo Hawai‘i (Hawaiian language teacher) Ipolani Vaughan, Izon asked the kumu if she could weave a piece for him. She turned down his

photos: aaron k. yoshino

Lauhala O Kona Weaving Conference nearly a decade ago, weaver Kā‘eo Izon realized his kuleana (responsibility).

ELEVATING ULANA

“ What will happen to ulana if we don’t start teaching the younger generation or finding ways to get them interested in these practices?” —Kā‘eo Izon

photos: aaron k. yoshino

ABOVE LEFT Cultural practitioners Pueo Pata and Kā‘eo Izon ABOVE RIGHT Hats masterfully woven from lau hala.

request, urging him instead to learn to weave himself. “I originally didn’t want to, but everything I was forced to do, I learned to love afterwards,” he says with a laugh. The process was slow and steady, with Izon spending years weaving only the likes of bottle covers before branching out with the help of teachers and master weavers Evva Lim, Suzi Swartman and Margaret Lovett. These kumu nurtured his interest and honed his skills with each new technique they passed on. “They shaped the way that I view weaving and how I teach today because I took things I learned from each of them,” he says. Years later Izon established himself as an independent weaver when he accepted his first formal student, longtime friend and kumu hula Pueo Pata. The pair’s shared interest in Hawaiian language and arts flourished through weaving, with Pata becoming not only his first pupil but also the foundation upon which Izon’s teachings would grow. And stepping into the role of kumu helped Izon realize his own potential for teaching. Before long, Native Hawaiian men’s group ‘Aha Kāne approached Izon with a request to teach 11- to 16 year-old boys to weave. Although apprehensive, he took on the challenge and witnessed a profound shift happening among the students.

“I remember sitting around the table one day and I saw the boys singing … and weaving their baskets,” he says. “I saw how the boys worked together to support one another, owning their cultural identity through this practice. It made me realize how few male weavers there were, so I thought I should start a men’s group.” Pata supported the effort to invite more boys and men into weaving. “[Kā‘eo] said it would be cool to start a nurturing environment for kāne to learn, and things started to align. Kāne came, a partnership with ‘Aha Kāne materialized,” Pata says, “and boom—Hui ‘Ala Hīnano was formed.” In 2017 the men of Hui ‘Ala Hīnano gathered weekly to work on their projects, immersed in Hawaiian music, ‘ōlelo Hawai‘i and hana no‘eau (Hawaiian crafts). Some were already enrolled in Izon’s weekly Hawaiian language classes; here, they could put their lessons into practice in a cultural environment surrounded by like-minded brothers. Kawohikūkahi Adversalo joined the group in 2021 and was immediately struck by the camaraderie there. “When I first started weaving after graduating high school, it was with Auntie Lorna [Pacheco] and a lot of older aunties and Nā Mea Hawai‘i, so it was very different when I first started with Hui ‘Ala Hīnano. It was really neat to have an established group with men close in age to me,” Adversalo says. Classes shifted online during the pandemic in 2020, and technology also became an outlet for Izon, who gained popularity on Instagram and TikTok when he began sharing his woven works and Native perspectives through witty humor and playful sarcasm. His social media following quickly grew and inquiries soon flooded his inbox, but SPRING 2 024

Nā Mea Hawai‘i, O‘ahu This beloved local boutique is a treasured resource for Native Hawaiian books, music, fashion and home goods, as well as cultural courses, including kīpuka workshops and ulana classes. nameahawaii.com Royal Hawaiian Center, O‘ahu Waikīkī’s premier shopping destination includes boutique and luxury shopping, as well as daily cultural programming. Guests can learn beginner weaving techniques from 11 a.m. to noon on Wednesdays. Classes are free and limited to the first 24 guests, ages 10 and older. royalhawaiiancenter.com Private Lessons with Kā‘eo Izon, O‘ahu Visitors can set up individual or private group introductory weaving lessons with Izon. Contact Izon via Instagram @native.narcissism. The Kāhala Hotel & Resort, O‘ahu Kona-based weaver Keoua Nelson teaches from 10 to 11:30 a.m. on Tuesdays at the hotel. He also shares the history and utility of ulana in Hawai‘i. kahalaresort.com

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this time with wāhine (women) eager to learn how to weave. “It was then that I realized I needed two groups, so there was a balance of kū and hina, and they could exist as brother-sister groups,” Izon explains, referencing the Hawaiian ideology of masculine and feminine balance. In an effort to create that space for new haumāna (students), he opened his first female cohort with 14 women and formally established Hui Waianuhea o ka Pua Hala in 2021. The learning curve was steep in this first iteration for the 18-week cohort. Weavers met once a week for two-hour sessions, with a goal of completing three projects to present at the group’s final hō‘ike (exhibit): a pale ‘ōmole wai (water bottle cover), a piko ‘ole (crownless hat), and a pāpale (hat). Since the students only had a total of 36 hours with their kumu, collaboration was key. “Kumu’s style of teaching is to build our own community,” says Ululani Oana, a student in the women’s group. “For a lot of us, we were there for the experience and values. We don’t take offense to constructive criticism because it helps us to be better and to become more maiau (skillful). Because of that, we are able to support one another and build a really strong pilina (relationship) with everyone.” Seven years after becoming Izon’s first formal student, Pata has affirmed his role in the hui as its appointed kahu, or steward. His trusted insights and cultural guidance have been invaluable in building

the community alongside Izon, nurturing what has blossomed into two flourishing weaving groups. Two years after its founding, over 100 female weavers of all ages had joined the Hui Waianuhea o ka Pua Hala community, which is now working on its 11th cohort. “The way kumu Kā‘eo is teaching is based on a mission to not only elevate weaving, but also learning a way of living so that the lessons are transferable into your own life,” shares member Kaleilehua Maioho-Carrillo. “The identity building comes through shared experiences—that’s how communities are distinguished and built. We all cheer each other on and feel that when one person does well, it elevates all of us connected to the hui.” The exponential growth nā hui have seen is indicative of the vested interest in ulana lau hala that has surged in recent years, prompting Izon to broaden his scope and advance greater professional opportunities for weavers as well. “I admire the fact that in places like Aotearoa (New Zealand), they have a

photos: sean marrs

LEARN HERE

ELEVATING ULANA

photos: sean marrs, ruben carrillo

LEFT Izon helping his nephew, Keaouli Zablan. CENTER Makana Gomes working on a hat. RIGHT The kāne and wāhine weaving cohorts.

university solely dedicated to perpetuating their Māori weaving traditions,” Izon says. “For our hui, I am striving to make ulana not just a form of hana (work) for my students and myself, but for us to evolve to make it our ‘oihana (profession) to elevate this practice.” For him and Pata, this includes establishing new weaving protocols and studies akin to the formal ‘ūniki ceremony in which hula students graduate into new roles in hālau. “I want to make sure we stay on track in terms of being culturally appropriate, because there are no known ulana protocols—so now we are innovating. Everything we do has to have substance and purpose to it,” he says. For Pata, establishing a formal ulana school steeped in Hawaiian culture requires the study of various pillars of thought, including language, discipline, the environment and resource management. “We are encouraged to maintain the values we inherit while doing what we can to elevate our lineage and skills,” he says. “This involves constantly striving to move past proficiency and aiming instead for mastery. I’m proud that we are able to maintain these things while expanding into possibilities that did not exist in the times of the kūpuna.” What Hui ‘Ala Hīnano and Hui Waianuhea o ka Pua Hala have accomplished in the world of ulana is nothing short of remarkable. Their efforts have inspired a new wave of weavers and generations of interest to revitalize a time-honored tradition that was at risk of becoming a novelty. For haumāna like Maioho-Carrillo, the simple practice of this art form is evidence of the need for more investment in Hawaiian cultural endeavors. “My advice to anyone is to take up a cultural practice—it doesn’t matter what,” Maioho-Carrillo says. “In doing so, you will connect with others, have a stronger sense of identity, and confidence in knowing your place within your community.” As the cohorts continue to grow and nā hui evolve, so too will the kumu who guide their studies. “To me, kumu is not a

“ That’s what a community should be, where everybody benefits from one another.” —Kā‘eo Izon

title, it’s a function,” Izon insists. He encourages haumāna to explore their studies both within and beyond the groups to expand their skills. And as a product of the teachings of his own four kumu, his appreciation for the role and responsibilities of kumu is unwavering. “This is my idea of community—it’s not just the students who benefit, it’s me as the kumu, too,” he says. “That’s what a community should be, where everybody benefits from one another.” Born and raised in Pukalani, Maui, Jade Snow is a Honolulu-based writer who specializes in local storytelling that highlights Hawaiian arts and culture, food and home. A former hula dancer for over two decades, she is a longtime Merrie Monarch devotee with a penchant for pearls, pīkake and mango season. SPRING 2 024

KAU KAU

Bingsu Me

Hop aboard the newest bingsu trend and check out our four favorite spots on O‘ahu to try this delicious Korean shave ice dessert. BY MARIA KANAI

Pineapple and mango Bingsu from Jejubing Dessert café

by storm over the last few years. It’s an addictive Korean take on Hawai‘i-style shave ice. Distinctly fluffier and more delicate, the base of bingsu is made from milk instead of water, giving it a creamier texture that’s less crystalized. Typically, the picturesque dessert is served with heaping mounds of toppings, like fruit, azuki beans mochi balls, boba, even cheesecake slices—vastly different from syrup-laden shave ice. Here are some of our favorite bingsu cafés around O‘ahu.

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Jejubing Dessert Café Located on the ground floor of Ala Moana Center, K-pop plays inside Jejubing Dessert Café’s well-lit space, filled with tables and faux plants. Here, the bingsu is served in large bowls, with a spoon of condensed milk on the side that you can drizzle on top. Expect generous layers of fresh fruit, whether it be the strawberry, honeydew, watermelon, mango or pineapple, finished with whipped cream. One of Jejubing’s standouts is its injeolmi bingsu, topped with azuki beans and injeolmi, a Korean rice cake covered in roasted soybean flour. Ala Moana Center, Ground Level 1, 1450 Ala Moana Blvd., @jejubingdessertcafe

photos: aaron k. yoshino, catherine toth fox

UST LIKE K-POP , bingsu has taken Hawai‘i

KAU KAU Taro bingsu from Snowberry Hawai‘i Dessert Café

Chocolate bingsu from Badabingsu

Badabingsu

Strawberry cheesecake Ice Wave from Kawaii Ice Wave

Open Tuesdays through Sundays from noon until 6 p.m. (or until it sells out), Badabingsu is an unassuming food truck located in Kahuku on the North Shore. But just because it isn’t a fancy café doesn’t mean you should skip it. The shave ice is extra fine, perfectly shredded and well worth the drive from Honolulu. The food truck started in 2021 and the menu has stayed simple: five flavors of mango, Melona, chocolate, pineapple and strawberry—each priced at $10. You’ll find mostly a local crowd at Badabingsu. The most popular bingsu is the mango flavor, which is topped with condensed milk, mango syrup, a scoop of vanilla ice cream and fresh mango slices. Each bite is heavenly, and there are two benches outside so you can sit down and enjoy your delicacy after a surf sesh. 56-565 Kamehameha Highway, Kahuku, @badabingsuhawaii

Kawaii Ice Wave

Snowberry Hawai‘i Dessert Café

Located in Hawai‘i Kai and Pearlridge Center, Kawaii Ice Wave is an uber-cute spot (think pink hearts) for ice floats, sundaes and soft serve, along with what it’s dubbed “Ice Waves”—an Insta-worthy take on bingsu. Fluffy, creamy shave ice is served in bowls, piled high with condensed milk and soft serve, and then topped with real fruit, cereal or Oreos. Try the Strawberry Mango Ice Wave or Mango Cheesecake Ice Wave, which is an experience in itself: layer after layer of cubed mangoes, bingsu, soy-based soft serve in the center, and diced cheesecake.

With four locations on Guam, this café opened its first in Hawai‘i in 2020 in Mililani, a residential neighborhood in Central O‘ahu. With 21 flavors, the most popular item is the classic strawberry bingsu, which comes with finely shaved ice, mochi balls, pudding, slivered almonds, and cornflakes tucked into the center to add a crunchy texture. Guests can also add ice cream for another layer of creamy texture and sweetness. Another popular dish is the mochi bingsu, which has vanillaflavored snow ice, a generous dusting of kinako flavor and topped with mochi balls.

377 Keahole St. in Hawai‘i Kai and Pearlridge Center, 98-1005 Moanalua Road, @kawaii_icewave

95-221 Kīpapa Drive, Suite C20, Mililani, snowberrybingsu.com SPRING 2 0 24

ONE LAST LOOK

One Last Look P H OTO BY A A R O N K . YO S H I N O

HE ALOHA SURF HOSTEL in Pā‘ia opened in 1983, catering

to windsurfers, kiteboarders and surfers from around the world who wanted to hit the waves at nearby Ho‘okipa. When Isaac and Laina Castillo bought the hostel 10 years ago, the couple found disgarded boards in the backyard. Rather than dump them, they decided to use them for their fence. Today, this colorful display along Baldwin Avenue has become a popular stop for photos and an iconic image of Pā‘ia.

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SPRING 2 0 24

LIKE A LOCAL

Go Nuts

How boiled peanuts became a Hawai‘i pūpū staple. B Y C AT H E R I N E T O T H F O X

O TO ANY POKE SHOP OR TAILGATE PARTY in Hawai‘i and

photo: gary saito

you’ll likely see a bowl full of boiled peanuts. Not roasted peanuts, not mixed nuts. Peanuts, still in their shells and simmered in a pot of boiling, salty water spiked with star anise. So how did this snack get to Hawai‘i, anyway? (We don’t have peanut farms here!) Turns out, like many other local foods, boiled peanuts is a result of the intermixing of immigrant cultures in the Islands. Peanuts are native to South America and, in the 16th century, Spanish and Portuguese explorers spread the crop around

the world. It wasn’t until the 1800s, though, that peanuts were grown as a commercial crop in the U.S. And wherever peanuts are grown, says cookbook author and boiled peanut expert Matt Lee, you’ll find boiled peanuts. “Boiling them is, in many respects, an easier way to apply heat than roasting in an oven,” explains Lee, who, along with his brother, Ted, founded a mail-order source for southern snacks, including boiled peanuts. While boiled peanuts can be found in Alabama, Florida, Georgia and South and North Carolina, only in Hawai‘i are the peanuts boiled with star anise, giving them a unique flavor.

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