HONOLULU Magazine July/August 2024 by aio Hawaiʻi

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HONOLULU MAGAZINE

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AUGUST 3, 2024 | 3 P.M. TO 7 P.M. | KAHALA MALL Come celebrate Hawai‘i’s iconic dish at FROLIC’s Poke Fest East celebration at Kahala Mall. Feast on a lineup of poke creations from the island’s favorite poke shops, then cast your ballot for whose poke reigns supreme! FO R MO RE IN FO R M ATI ON , V I S I T H O N O L UL UM AG A Z I N E .C O M

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DEPARTMENTS

FEATURES 18 Best of HONOLULU From hand rolls to head massage, eyeglasses to ecofriendly boutique, here are the top food, wellness, entertainment, shopping, services, self-care and familyfriendly picks to live your best life in Honolulu. BY L AU R A D O R N B U S H , A N D R E A LE E , T H O M A S OBUNGEN, DIANE S E O, M A R I TA K E TA , B R I E T H A L M A N N and K AT R I N A VA LCO U R T

57 Private School Guide This year we dive into how five private schools are incorporating artificial intelligence in the classroom. Plus, find tips for the application process, how to ace the interview, financial aid FAQs and a directory of private schools.

6 Editor’s Page

GRATEFUL FOR YOUR COMMENTS

Your responses to my May editor’s column were meaningful and moving. BY DIANE SEO

9 Currents How Hawaiian Host went viral nationally, a Q&A with a local Olympian, what’s new in town and some old favorites.

113 ‘Ono The rise of farmers markets and food truck gatherings has spawned vendors serving up Argentinian barbecued meats,

Lebanese zaatar flatbreads, Sri Lankan curries and more. Here’s a closer look at three of them. BY MARI TAKETA

120 Afterthoughts

GREEN GOLD

Counting the fruits of my avocado tree has become my obsession. BY MARI TAKETA

ON THE COVER: photo: Aaron K. Yoshino. styling: Brie Thalmann. art direction: James Nakamura. hair and makeup: Mariah Melanie. Featured apparel, accessories and other products: Anouk top, Annika skirt. gillia. Pearl necklace, link necklace. laine honolulu. Machete sunglasses, Lindquist Object bag. island-boy. Coopmonsters bandanna, Palaka collar and leash, the public pet. Tabletop: Assorted cheeses and charcuterie, wood cheese board. bubbly & bleu. Bud vase, cocktail napkins. island-boy. Ceramic carafe-vase. soha living.

E D I TO R’ S PAG E

Grateful for Your Comments Your responses to my May editor’s column were meaningful and moving.

ERE COMES ANOTHER DETOUR from a typical Editor’s Page to share a few of the comments I received after reflecting in May on my journey from being an ambitious, driven journalist, who grew up in Hawai‘i and couldn’t wait to leave and join the “big leagues” of media, to a single mother who returned to Honolulu desperate for the connections and comforts of home. Over Facebook, LinkedIn, emails, texts and in-person conversations, several dozen people (most from Hawai‘i, but many not) told me the essay resonated with them, and they too had come to important life realizations. I cherished every comment. It made me realize the beauty of personal growth, but also how deeply connected we can be when we’re being honest about the messy, wondrous paths we’re all trying to navigate. Here are excerpts from letters I received. ***

***

F I’m 71 years old and this is maybe my second or third letter to the editor. I’m writing to thank you for your recent Editor’s Page story about the journey to find your path to gratitude for living here in Honolulu. I found it inspiring as it resonated with me. I wake up every morning with gratitude for my life, my family and for living in Hawai‘i. It puts me in a positive state of mind that helps build resilience against the challenges life presents. I had a different and much shorter path to the same state of mind. I went to school in Lafayette, Indiana, not far from Evanston. The bitter Midwest winters and conservative thinking were a physical and cultural shock and raised my level of awareness about how different life in Hawai‘i is from the rest of the world. I returned to Hawai‘i with a much higher level of awareness of the natural beauty, the aloha culture and my desire to live and raise my future children here. My career as an engineer for the U.S. Navy took me all over the world and while I got to see and experience many wonderful sites and cultures, no place came close to pulling me away from Hawai‘i. Mundane things like the cashiers at Longs talking to my granddaughter as if she were one of theirs bring me joy for living in this special place where somehow we have learned to respect those different from ourselves and share the common bond of island-style living, where our very existence depends on the kindness and support of others.

F Actually, there is no particular reason for this email but after reading your write-up in the latest Editor’s Page of HONOLULU Magazine, I simply felt like sending this to you. I’m 80 years old and not even a subscriber of the magazine but I happened to look at my son’s magazine and really liked what you wrote. I just wanted you to know that I enjoyed and felt touched by your article. Also, I wish that more younger people could read it. Just maybe, they might learn something from your experiences, or at least gain some insights and think about what’s really important as they live their lives. —Dan Michibata

—Byrnes Yamashita DIANE SEO EDITORIAL DIRECTOR DIANES@HONOLULUMAGAZINE.COM

HONOLULU MAGAZINE

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LIFE

COMING SOON

Full Cirque

HONOLULU

➸ FUN FACT: It was while taking in a beautiful Hawaiian sunset that Canadian businessman Guy Laliberté

dreamt up the name Cirque du Soleil for his troupe of traveling acrobats. So it’s fitting that the theatrical production has a homecoming of sorts with its first Hawai‘i residency starting this December at the Outrigger Waikīkī Beachcomber Hotel. The show, ‘Auana, explores Hawaiian mo‘olelo and historic events, marrying its signature elements of dance, comedy and thrilling acrobatics with hula, choreographed by kumu hula Hiwa Vaughan. Manaola Yap is designing the Hawai‘i-inspired costumes and the show’s vibrant backdrops will celebrate the natural beauty of the Islands. —Brie Thalmann, photo by Erik Kabik0 Tickets available at cirquedusoleil.com/hawaii, @cirquedusoleil.auana

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CURRENTS

EVENTS

Summer Picks

SCAN HERE TO SIGN UP FOR OUR WEEKEND PICKS NEWSLETTER

Top events this July and August. BY K AT R I N A VA LC O U RT

Comedy Ronny Chieng: The Love to Hate It Tour July 24, 26 and 27 / 7 p.m. Hawai‘i Theatre / $35 and up

PRESTON MENESES

FULL COVERAGE COMMUNICATIONS

He’s not just the cringey heart surgeon from Doogie Kamealoha, M.D.—comedian Ronny Chieng has had roles in Crazy Rich Asians and Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings, plus comedy specials on Netflix. Shows are at 7 p.m. nightly with a bonus 10 p.m. show on Saturday, July 27.

Concert An Evening with Carrie Underwood July 19 and 20 / 8 p.m. Blaisdell Arena / $48.85 and up

Concert Sheraton Starlight Festival and Lexus Films in Concert Series July 20–Aug. 18 Waikīkī Shell / $15 and up

The superstar behind some of the best modern country hits (what’s a karaoke night without “Before He Cheats”?) makes her debut in the Islands. Make sure to arrive on time—there will be no opening act.

If you’ve never seen the Hawai‘i Symphony Orchestra perform live—or even if you’re a longtime fan—its summertime performances are some of the most fun as the musicians play tunes from films including Jurassic Park and Star Wars, as well as hits from the ’80s and other themes.

COURTESY: PRINCE WAIKĪKĪ

rbpconcerts.com, @carrieunderwood

myhso.org, @hawaiisymphonyorchestra

hawaiitheatre.com, @ronnychieng Festival Hawai‘i ‘Ukulele Festival July 27 / 10 a.m–5 p.m. Kapi‘olani Park Bandstand / Free Roy Sakuma’s famed ‘Ukulele Festival Hawai‘i is no more, but this new event that debuted in 2023 just might fill its shoes. It’s not only ‘ukulele performances—this free festival also includes a food court, community information booths, ‘ukulele-inspired merch, a Hawaiian cultural activities zone and more. hawaiiukulelefestival.com, @hawaiiukulelefestival Festival Pacific Ink & Art Expo Aug. 2–4 Blaisdell Exhibition Hall

inked by your favorite artist or just to have a good time. hawaiitattooexpo.com, @hawaiitattooexpo Concert Original Kapena 40th Anniversary Celebration Aug. 31 / 6 p.m. Waikīkī Shell / $29 and up Remember in 2015 when Kelly Boy De Lima, Teimoni Tatofi and Tivaini Tatofi performed “One Last Hana Hou,” a final concert 10 years after they’d stopped performing together? Well, it wasn’t the end: This August, the trio reunites for a special one-night-only concert celebrating the original lineup of the band. hifinest.com/events/kapena40, @kapenamusic Concert Wildest Show Concert Series Wednesdays through July 24 / 5 p.m. Honolulu Zoo / $5–$15 Families are invited to explore educational activities at the zoo’s popular after-hours events; gates open at 4:30 p.m. The July shows feature the Mākaha Sons (July 10), Robi Kahakalau (July 17) and Brother Noland (July 24). honoluluzoo.org, @thehonoluluzoo

For the first time since 2019, this event returns, with tattoo contests, local musicians, food and food eating contests, motorcycle displays and more. Come by to get

The Prince Waikīkī will host various free series throughout the summer: Vodka & Vinyl on Aug. 17; Cosmics & Cocktails July 18 and Aug. 1, 15 and 29; Summer Flix with the Hawai‘i International Film Festival July 17, 24 and 31; and the latest Art Redefined series of summer concerts with Ten Feet on Aug. 31. princewaikiki.com, @princewaikiki

HONOLULU MAGAZINE

NEWS

PROGRAM SPOTLIGHT

Homecoming

100% Success

Hawai‘i receives the largest repatriation of Native Hawaiian artifacts in history.

Hawai‘i’s Maile Alert has been issued four times.

BY K AT R I N A VA LC O U RT

DWARD HALEALOHA AYAU has been working for decades on the repa-

AMANDA LEONARD

triation of Native Hawaiian artifacts. Last year, he and his team identified items in the University of California at Berkeley’s Phoebe A. Hearst Museum of Anthropology that should be returned, and by November, 335 items had been packed up and sent back to the Islands. This is the largest-ever repatriation of cultural objects to Hawai‘i, and it includes sacred lei hulu (feather lei), kūpe‘e (anklets/bracelets) and lei niho palaoa (whale tooth pendants strung on human hair). The Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act of 1990, or NAGPRA, requires institutions that receive federal funding—such as universities and museums—to return human remains, sacred and funerary objects, and objects of cultural patrimony to lineal descendants and Indigenous groups. Despite the law, thousands of objects are still far from home. That doesn’t sit right with U.S. Sen. Brian Schatz, chair of the Senate Committee on Indian Affairs, who sent open letters to the institutions with the biggest collections of remains—including the University of California at Berkeley—last spring, urging them to comply with NAGPRA. Berkeley is actively working toward reducing its collections.

A ARON K. YOSHINO

OUR STATE’S MAILE ALERT PROGRAM

Edward Halealoha Ayau

to find missing children boasts a 100% success rate. Hawai‘i was the last U.S. state to adopt an Amber Alert, in 2005; since then, the “Maile” Alerts have been activated four times, most recently this past February when two boys were abducted by their mother’s ex-boyfriend. Within minutes of the alert, which reached cell phone users across Honolulu County, the suspect turned himself in. Amanda Leonard, who coordinates the program through the Hawai‘i Department of the Attorney General, recently was named the department’s employee of the year for her work running the program, in coordination with local law enforcement, the Hawai‘i Emergency Management Agency and other entities. “Hawai‘i’s tight-knit community has allowed the program to thrive,” says Leonard, a former family law attorney. “My goal is to make parents in Hawai‘i feel less fearful, and to prevent abductions. We want to continue our education and outreach so the public is aware of what the alerts are, what they mean, and what we are asking them to do to increase the chances of a positive outcome. We also want to make sure we’re helping parents feel more empowered, educated and aware of how to keep their children safe.” —Diane Seo

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CURRENTS

Waikīkī’s New Beefy Bistro Aloha Steak House’s kid brother, The Butcher Bar, is focused on beef and cocktails.

RIGHT: Lights dim at 7 p.m. RIGHT BOTTOM: Beef

dry-aging over various periods becomes the focal point.

thomas obungen

BY THOMAS OBUNGEN

BELOW: deep-fried burrata with sourdough toast, and the steak sandwich with hand-cut doublefried french fries

THOMAS OBUNGEN

NEW IN TOWN

EC E N T LY A R R I V E D on the corner of Seaside and Kūhiō in Waikīkī, The Butcher Bar brings the casual, open-air atmosphere we know from its neighboring brother restaurant, Aloha Steak House. And like its older sibling, it doesn’t compromise on quality with its dry-aged steaks and other premium meats.

Steakhouse trimmings here get a second life. Burger patties made with bits from ribeyes, tenderloins and striploins are met with bone marrow, Havarti cheese and bacon on a brioche bun to create the unctuous Marrow Burger ($17). A menu of beefy entrées and shareable chophouse appetizers with bistro flair are backed by spirit-forward cocktails and wines. The Butcher Bar, part of the Zetton restaurant group, was born from the need to be more sustainable. In addition to using steak trim, breads are baked in-house, potatoes are cut fresh into fries, and cocktails mixers are all crafted from scratch. The $60 steak prix fixe supper, which includes a choice of a petite filet or rib-eye cap with sides, a dressed salad and dessert, is the way to go if dinner is the goal. The hand-cut double-fried french fries are hard to put down, and the deep-fried burrata with sourdough toast points is easily shared among four. At 7 p.m., the lights dim to a warm amber glow to match flickering wax candles, to create a romantic vibe. 364 Seaside Ave., @thebutcherbar_waikiki

Manini Gallery

Enjoy some grown-up time at O‘ahu’s first adults-only hotel. Sister property to Romer Waikīkī at the Ambassador, Romer House Waikīkī (formerly the Pearl Hotel Waikīkī) opened in June on Nāhua Street with a snazzy midcentury aesthetic. The 179-room resort boasts a breezy pool deck with wade pool, cabana daybeds, Body Balance Hawai‘i fitness classes and a full-service bar. It also features an izakaya and bar by TableOne Hospitality, the group behind Renaissance Hotel’s Mara restaurant. —Brie Thalmann

On weekends, part of the Hawai‘i Theatre transforms into a free art gallery that showcases the works of local contemporary artists. Artist Solomon Enos headlined the opening of the Manini Gallery in April with Future Island Cultures, an exhibition themed around Indigenous futurism. The gallery’s latest exhibit, He‘e Nalu: The Art and Legacy of Hawaiian Surfing in partnership with FestPAC and the Summer Olympics, features portraits of surfing icons by Ian Kuali‘i and surfboards crafted by Tom “Pōhaku” Stone. It runs through August. —Andrea Lee

415 Nāhua St., (808) 922-1616, romerhotels.com, @romerhousewaikiki 12

HONOLULU MAGAZINE

COURTESY: ROMER HOUSE WAIKĪKĪ

Romer House Waikīkī

1130 Bethel St., manini.gallery, @maninigallery

MORE OPENINGS New spots across the island. BY ANDREA LEE

TOKYO CENTRAL This sister market to Don Quijote and Marukai is Hawai‘i’s first, taking over the old Times in Kailua with Japanese goods and groceries. tokyocentralhawaii.com, @tokyocentralhawaii

HOK A ONE ONE

THOMAS OBUNGEN

Hikers and walkers are sporting the vibrant, comfy and chunky shoes from Hoka One One, now at Ala Moana Center.

PHOTOS: MARIA BURKE, COURTESY OF HOK A ONE ONE, COURTESY OF VALOR BAR, COURTESY OF LAGREE O‘AHU

ANDREA LEE

hoka.com, @hoka

VALOR BAR Sip craft cocktails while at Pearlridge Wai Makai food court, with choices like an Old Fashioned smoked with kīawe wood and a mini charcuterie board served atop a wine glass. valorhawaii.com, @valorhi

LAGREE O‘AHU Lagree Fitness, a high-intensity, lowimpact exercise program, is gaining traction with Lagree O‘ahu opening a second studio at Hawai‘i Kai Towne Center. lagreeoahufitness.com, @lagreeoahu

J U LY/A U G U S T 2 0 2 4

CURRENTS

STYLE

GONE VIRAL

Queens of the Castle

Cheers, Roberta! Designer Roberta Oaks celebrates 20 years in the local fashion industry.

How Hawaiian Host Group blew up on Instagram. BY ANDREA LEE

T PAUL STROUSE

castle.” The Instagram universe answered their call. In just two days, @hawaiian.host.group acquired 10,000 followers and continued on to 100,000 after the dancing trio told viewers that “Boss Man” would wear a princess dress on the promised Disneyland trip if they hit a six-digit following. They surpassed 200,000 followers two days later. After their social media dream came true, associate communications managers Ruby Lee and Raquelle Pendleton, intern Lauren Miral and brand strategy manager Stijn Spaas (aka Boss Man) hit the Magic Kingdom. “Everything was awesome,” Pendleton says. “One of our fans recognized us there—that was also cool, just seeing the impact that social media can have.” At the dress reveal, held at a nearby wedding venue, the group gave away Mauna Loa and Hawaiian Host products and held a giveaway for a trip to Hawai‘i. “It was pretty crazy,” Pendleton says. “There was a line out the door.” Lee attributes the team’s success to their leaning into the corporate humor side of the internet. “Even though it looks like we blew up overnight, it actually was months of work,” she says. “Social media is a bit of a gamble, like sometimes you spend hours on a post that gets five likes. And sometimes the scrappiest video that you could do in five minutes can go totally viral.”

Roberta Oaks in her new mu‘umu‘u design “I NEVER IN A MILLION YEARS would have

1152 Nu‘uanu Ave., (808) 526-1111, robertaoaks.com, @robertaoakshawaii 14

HONOLULU MAGAZINE

FROM LEFT: Ruby Lee, Raquelle Pendleton, Stijn Spaas and Lauren Miral

COURTESY: HAWAIIAN HOST GROUP

imagined myself as a menswear designer in Hawai‘i,” Roberta Oaks says. It was 2004 when the self-proclaimed “country girl” from Missouri started her label in Honolulu with a handful of womenswear styles. Since then, Oaks has become synonymous with alohawear, thanks to her expansion into aloha shirts, spurred by the opening of her first storefront in 2009. “I hadn’t even considered that until putting myself physically into Chinatown and seeing all these guys walking by in aloha shirts,” she says. Today, many of the shirts passing by are her own. “It makes my heart sing,” Oaks says. “When I see people wearing the shirts and looking confident in them, those are the moments when I feel like I’ve created something real.” To celebrate her 20th anniversary, Oaks will host in-shop events in summer and fall. Keep an eye out for a special 20-year collection, fresh prints and dress shapes, including a chic mu‘umu‘u. Extended sizes and a new material—rayon—are also in the works. —Brie Thalmann

HEIR REQUEST ON INSTAGRAM got right to the point: “Our boss said he’ll take us to Disneyland if we hit 10K followers in the next 10 days.” The communications trio in Hawaiian Host’s reel made their ask in April while doing the trendy “Fireball” dance, urging viewers to “get these queens to the

TA I L S O F T H E C I T Y

Goats, Chickens and a Beehive Eliza Lathrop regards her urban farm as a “miracle” where things flourish.

ELIZA LATHROP MIGHT BEST BE DESCRIBED AS A RENAISSANCE WOMAN of nature. She spends

her weekdays teaching Punahou students how to garden and grow things, while at home, she lovingly tends to her chickens, bees and goats, which provide her with eggs, honey, cheese and milk that’s turned into yogurt. She sees her urban farm—replete with a lush vegetable, fruit and herb garden—as a “miracle” where things grow and provide sustenance. “I like sharing the space with all the other creatures, like our bees that are everywhere,” she says of her O‘ahu oasis. “It gives me a real, deeper connection to this place where I live and the food I put in my body.” If you have just two chickens, she says, you get daily eggs and have the “pleasure of having an animal that is both a pet and a food producer.” —Diane Seo, photo by Aaron K. Yoshino J U LY/A U G U S T 2 0 2 4

CURRENTS

Fellow three-time Olympian Christenson, meanwhile, will represent the 808 as a Kamehameha grad, while Ma‘a hails from Punahou. Averill played for UH from 2012 to 2015, and Muagututia lived in the Islands as a child. While training in California, Erik Shoji chatted about his Olympic journey and Hawai‘i pride. Does the thrill of Olympic competition diminish, or is it just as exciting as the first time? There’s not a huge difference between the first time I made the team and the third. I remember heading into my individual meeting with nerves. I felt confident I would make the team, but you never know until the coaches tell you. I get chicken skin when I think about it. It’s an amazing feeling to be at the pinnacle of your sport. There’s so much energy at the Olympics, and I’m excited to have that experience again.

VOLLEYBALL WORLD, COURTESY OF ERIK SHOJI

And with so many others from Hawai‘i?

O N E T O WAT C H

During the last Olympics, it was me, Micah [Christenson] and my brother, Kawika. It’s cool there are four of us now. And actually, I want to include Garrett Muagututia. He spent three years as a kid in the Islands, has many connections to the Islands and is married to a local girl. For me, he’s part of the clan. All this shows Hawai‘i is a volleyball state. I love saying that. I’m so proud representingwhere we’re from. You’re already a seasoned pro, so what keeps you going? My first goal is to win. At 34, it’s tough to compete with 20-year-olds, but I’m still out there to win no matter what competition I’m playing. My second goal is to always be the best player I can be. And my third goal is to represent myself, my family and my state as well as I can, and show people you can be yourself, come from a small island and accomplish great things.

Paris Bound

Volleyball star Erik Shoji will be competing at the Olympics with four other players with Hawai‘i ties. BY DIANE SEO

RIK SHOJI AND FOUR OTHER VOLLEYBALL STANDOUTS with Hawai‘i ties (Micah Christenson, Micah Ma‘a, Taylor Averill and Garrett Muagututia) will be competing with Team USA at the Paris Olympics. It’s a remarkableshowing thatnearly half of the 12 men selected for the team are connected to the Islands. It’s Shoji’s third Olympics in the libero role, an accomplishment he describes as “surreal.” Shoji—a former Punahou and Stanford star now playing volleyball professionally in Poland—is the son of legendary University of Hawai‘i women’s volleyball coach Dave Shoji, who will be in Paris watching with the rest of the family.

HONOLULU MAGAZINE

How did Hawai‘i become such a volleyball powerhouse? It’s part of our culture—it’s who we are and what we do. You see people playing volleyball on the beach, in the gym, the parks. But I’m also going to brag about my father, who had such a successful program since the ’70s. A big part of the volleyball culture in Hawai‘i is the University of Hawai‘i program, and luckily, we had some amazing players who came before us, so now, we’re carrying the torch.

The Summer Olympics take place from July 26 to Aug. 11, with television coverage on NBC.

CURRENTS PURSUITS

Snap Happy Jess Loiterton captures dreamy moments at local breaks.

“Pretty” isn’t a word often used to describe surf photography, yet it’s an apt description for the work of Jess Loiterton, an Aussie shutterbug who captures dreamy portrayals of local breaks. In a sea of action shots, almost always focused on the biggest barrels and gnarliest rides, Loiterton’s photos celebrate the downbeats, the quiet moments between sets, when the water is calm and glassy enough to reflect gorgeous peach and cotton candy hues. “I really wanted to recreate the colors that I saw in my head,” she says. A surfer since she was 7, the Sydney transplant (who now calls Waikīkī home) fell in love with the unique way drone photography captures surfing. “I hope when people view my work, they experience a sense of peace and relaxation, and feel a connection that unites us all.” —Brie Thalmann, photos courtesy of Jess Loiterton, adventuresofjess.studio, @adventures_ofjess This print, “Isn’t She Lovely,” depicts sunset at Queen’s Surf in Waikīkī, Loiterton’s favorite surf break to shoot. J U LY/A U G U S T 2 0 2 4

We’re celebrating the entrepreneurs, restaurateurs, designers, retailers, artists and others who make our city vibrant and fun. Our Best of HONOLULU features both reader selections and those of our editorial team. There were so many notable businesses and endeavors we could have recognized—it felt endless with options.

AARON K. YOSHINO

BY LAURA DORNBUSH, ANDREA LEE, THOMAS OBUNGEN, DIANE SEO, M A R I TA K E TA , B R I E T H A L M A N N and K A T R I N A VALCOURT

TKTK

Newlyweds Kellyna and Matthew Derouin cozy up at Bubbly & Bleu, the charming Kaimukī boutique that took home our Best Cheese Shop award.

Effortlessly chic women’s tops and bottoms are a staple of local label Gillia, which won our Best Breezy Separates category.

The reader pick for Best New Shop, Island-Boy is a fave for cool accessories like Kellyna’s sunglasses and leather bag.

Readers love layering Laine Honolulu’s delicate necklaces and bracelets so much they voted it Best Jewelry Store.

Good boy Enzo is all dressed-pup in a palaka bandanna, collar and leash, snagged from Best Pet Shop winner The Public Pet.

J U LY/A U G U S T 2 0 2 4

THOMAS OBUNGEN

FOOD & DRINK

BEST

RESTAURANT VIBE

434 Pi‘ikoi St.,s (808) 888-0000, ichikahawaii.com, @tempura_ichika

BEST BEST

NOODLE SHOP

Farm-to-Table Café So what if it opens only four hours a week, there’s nowhere to sit, and the menu has just two or three takeout meals, a dessert and two drinks that change every time? That’s part of the charm of Roots Café, part of the Kōkua Kalihi Valley nonprofit. The amazing thing isn’t the constant creativity (entrées rarely appear twice), it’s the quality of the food. Ingredients for items like Cambodian beef curry with peanuts and lemongrass, fresh mango lemonade and an insanely delicious cardamom butter mochi with ‘inamona-coconut crumble come from O‘ahu growers as far away as Wai‘anae’s Kahumana Organic Farms—home to another worthy farm-to-table café. —MT

Of all the city’s noodle joints, the one that keeps us coming back the most is the tiniest. Each successive bowl at Wu Wei Chong Qing Cuisine is a different taste adventure. Start with the boiled fish noodles with chiles and preserved cabbage in tangy, umami-rich broth; move on to tender house beef dry noodles, fragrant with five-spice and livened by crunchy cucumber coils; and for comparison, try Wu Wei’s Northern Chinese jajangmyeon—it’s nothing like the Korean noodle dish we know. Get there early because the shop’s four-and-a-half tables hold only 18 diners. —MT

Open Tuesdays and Thursdays 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., 2229 N. School St., (808) 791-9400, @rootskalihi

1738 S. King St., #101, (808) 741-2297, @wuweicuisine

HONOLULU MAGAZINE

AARON K. YOSHINO

MARTHA CHENG FILE PHOTO

The nondescript exterior of Tempura Ichika belies the true experience of Honolulu’s only tempura omakase with a Michelin pedigree. Enter a portal to an intimate corner of Tokyo’s Ebisu neighborhood. Every surface, bathed in raw blond oak, frames your multicourse kaiseki meal of seasonal seafood and vegetables that transcends the idea of fried food. From the nutty aroma of the distinctive blend of oils to the hushed chatter, the vibe only deepens with Ichika’s over-the-top omotenashi, the Japanesestyle hospitality that extends far beyond the meal itself. If you’re looking to escape Honolulu for a few hours, this is where to go. —TO

AARON K. YOSHINO

FOOD & DRINK

BEST

Gourmet Shop With gourmet goods now in pasta stores, coffeehouses, sandwich shops and supermarkets, newcomer Uncle Paul’s Corner Store stands apart because of the breadth of its offerings, which run the gamut from playful to geeky serious. So yes, there are local salts, candied iyokan citrus, Villa Manodori olive oils, jars of sumac and dried natto snacks. And cookbooks, napkins, foodand drink-themed shirts and barware and bar tools. The last two speak to Uncle Paul’s intended identity as a wine shop—but even after it gets its liquor license, we’re told, the fun foodie stuff will stay. —MT 2752 Woodlawn Drive, #5-100, (808) 888-0878

BEST

Multiple locations, rainbowdrivein.com, @rainbowdrivein

AARON K. YOSHINO

2955 E. Mānoa Road, (808) 673-0065, morningglasscoffee.com, @morningglasscoffee

@bing.mi808

Rainbow Drive-In is that towering living legend that defies pigeonholing. Is it the gravy-all-over thing? The Slush Floats? The still-affordable prices? Whatever the reason, Rainbows—which opened in 1961 without the walls that help define a diner—was voted by HONOLULU readers as Best Diner in the city. The largely unchanged menu of mix plates, boneless chicken and chili dogs, plus breakfast choices that include fried rice and mahi mahi, qualify as hallowed local-style diner fare. And newer franchise locations offer seating within walls, which makes them more like real diners if we’re getting technical. But who needs to get technical? We’re talking about Rainbows. —MT

Bing Mi Hawai‘i, a popular Portland food cart and eatery, now pops up at Fishcake in Kaka‘ako every other Thursday and at farmers markets on the weekends. Partners Mark Kuga and Jessie Nguyen roll their new wave Chinese jianbing crepes with two eggs, spicy bing sauce, scallions, cilantro, and a choice of tofu, char siu barbecue pork or bacon. They add four giant hand-fried wonton crackers and romaine lettuce to each crepe right before serving for maximum crunch. Best eaten on the spot, this handheld snack is full of texture and heat with pockets of meat throughout. —TO

Step aside Funfetti, it’s time for your cocoa brown cousin to shine. This soft cookie with a crispy soul stole my heart at Morning Glass Coffee + Café in Mānoa. Each toothsome bite is rewarded with the crunch of rainbow nonpareil sprinkles and a slight chew with a healthy dose of brownie cocoa. It’s elusive, but so perfectly balanced with sweetness, texture and “cookiness” that chasing it never gets old. Good luck buying just one. —TO

K AA RO N

CHINESE STREET CREPES

SPRINKLE COOKIE

BEST

THOMAS OBUNGEN

DINER (READER PICK)

J U LY/A U G U S T 2 0 2 4

FOOD & DRINK

BEST

Hand Rolls

BEST

BUDGET SPLURGE

AARON K. YOSHINO

The unlikeliest place to find sushi hand rolls is in an edgy Chinatown bar known for its graffiti art and cocktails. Obake’s sushi is itself full of surprises—goodsize rolls with fillings that go beyond the usual seafood occasionally dressed with mayo or a touch of yuzu. Like the Summer Toro roll, which dresses up negi toro with limu, sesame and the surprise of fresh strawberry (it works). Or the Ho Hayn, whose kampachi poke with limu and ‘inamona comes with chile pepper water for dipping. Bonus surprise: a yakitori cart in Chinatown’s prettiest courtyard three nights a week. —MT

It’s a tough choice between Honolulu’s two sumptuous Korean lunch sets, but we’re giving the nod to Hangang Korean Grill House. Both Hangang and Korea Garden offer mixed rice cooked in stone pots, deeply flavored chiges, similar entrée choices and eight or nine wellmade banchan dishes at nearly identical prices in the mid-$20 range. What tips the scales is Hangang’s touch of luxe: Despite smaller portion sizes, kalbi and other meats are premium quality, and banchan choices often contain a surprise beyond the usual kim chee, oden and bean sprouts, like jangjorim soy-braised beef with garlic cloves and springy ali‘i mushrooms. —MT 1236 Waimanu St., 1F, (808) 200-1114, @hanganghi

1112 Smith St., (808) 583-3092, obakehonolulu.com, @obakehonolulu

COURTESY: LEWERS LOUNGE

BEST

LOCAL SNACK COMPANY

There’s something sexy about a great hotel bar, a place that transcends space and time as people from all walks of life come together. Whether you’re a weary traveler sitting down for a nightcap, a wide-eyed wanderer looking for an adventure or a local aching for an escape, you’d be hard pressed to find a swankier locale than Lewers Lounge. Halekūlani’s jazz bar offers live music, a jazz-inspired menu of cocktails and light pūpū nightly. The dim lighting, upscale dress code and plush seating lend themselves to a vibe of mystique. When you emerge from your evening of hushed whispers and mysterious characters, it all feels like a dream. —KV

We need our dried fish snacks. We need our Betty’s Best Cookies, our white chocolatecovered gummy bears, our Fusen character bubblegums (with tattoos!), our candy lei and our li hing everything. Our need for the entire cosmos of packaged local snacks is such that Wholesale Unlimited has six Express locations on O‘ahu in addition to its Waipahu store and warehouse. There are nearly 450 items in all, including cookies made with founder Betty Nagamoto Honma’s recipes (23 kinds). With a name that hints at infinity, who wants to bet there’s more coming? —MT

Halekūlani Hotel, 2199 Kālia Road, (808) 923-2311, halekulani.com/dining/ lewers-lounge, @halekulanihotel

Multiple locations, wholesaleunlimitedhi.com, @wholesaleunlimitedhi

BEST

HOTEL BAR

HONOLULU MAGAZINE

AARON K. YOSHINO

(READER PICK)

FOOD & DRINK

BEST

Loaded Fries By loaded, I mean loaded, with multiple toppings and sauce, not just minced garlic or a sprinkling of bacon bits. I found the fries that ticked all the boxes at Pit Stop Hawai‘i. These hand-cut fries ($16), smothered in guava barbecue sauce, cheese and kālua pork, are on the browner side of golden, resulting from a longer frying process. They’re also crisp on the outside while still fluffy inside. It’s a whole meal and then some, and amazingly, the fries were still crispy hours later when I polished them off as leftovers. —AL

2411 Kūhiō Ave., (808) 765-1921, pitstophawaii.com, @pitstophawaii

BEST

NEW POP-UP BAKERY Of all the baked goods introduced this past year in the city, Anh Chi Em Bakery’s offerings are the most enticing. Baking since last November and now regularly popping up on Saturdays at Fishcake, Diana Hai Hoa Pham offers an assortment of traditional and fusion Vietnamese pastries and cakes that have gained a following. Her mother, Elizabeth Thu Hai Pham, is an added draw, standing outside Fishcake wearing a “Hang Loose” mitt and waving at people to come try her daughter’s treats. Favorites include the flaky, buttery patê sô (pork and vegetable puff pastry pie) and incredibly moist, not-too-sweet jasmine tea cake. —AL 307c Kamani St., @anhchiembakery

1827 Pālolo Ave., (808) 330-0292, taqueriaelazulhawaii.com, @elazulpalolo

DI A

S NE

T UR

Not dry and stringy, not shredded and slathered in salsa or mole: Chicken tacos at Taqueria el Azul are a revelation. The chicken is good enough to stand alone, chunky and juicy and flavored by the grill. Along with birria and al pastor with fresh pineapple, it’s one of three options for your tacos, burritos and bowls. Details like this at a hole-in-the-wall three-quarters of a mile into Pālolo Valley may come as a surprise. El Azul, open only in the evenings, is the sister restaurant to Castro’s, Waikīkī’s thriving Cuban breakfast and lunch spot. —MT

ANDREA LEE

CHICKEN TACOS

K AT

RI N

BEST

SMOOTHIE BOWL (READER PICK)

Açaí bowls have been popular for years, but there are so many other healthy or deluxe smoothie bowls to try. At Lanikai Juice locations across the island, bowl bases can be mixed-berry blends, greens-heavy or protein-packed, topped with fresh fruit, coconut chips, organic cacao nibs, chia seeds and more. We like the Mana Green, which gets its hue (and boost of antioxidants) from spinach and local spirulina without tasting too healthy, thanks to sweet chunks of mango. Of course, you can also have your pick of açaí bowls, some of which come in keiki to large bowl sizes, and all of which use organic açaí. —KV Multiple locations, lanikaijuice.com, @lanikaijuice J U LY/A U G U S T 2 0 2 4

FOOD & DRINK

BEST

Cheese Shop Ah, oui! With French music playing in the background, cheese shopping at Bubbly & Bleu feels almost like browsing a Parisian fromagerie. The shop’s owners, Fred and Cheryl DeAngelo, hunt for premium cheeses during trips to Europe and California, and unique varieties are shipped monthly, like the lavender pesto gouda recently spotted in the refrigerated section. The rotating selection can be purchased by weight or included in make-your-own charcuterie boards, where you pick three cheeses, three meats and three toppings, which the staff artfully assembles. Bubbly & Bleu also sells pre-ordered charcuterie boxes or platters and holds monthly charcuterie-making classes. —DS

RISE S H ACK

1142 Koko Head Ave., (808) 888-5555, bubblyandbleu.com, @bubblyandbleu

BEST

WAY TO DRINK YOUR NUTRIENTS

Sunrise Shack’s Blue Dream is the color it suggests, shaded by Blue Majik, an extract of nutrient-dense spirulina. The freshwater algae is touted for boosting energy, improving digestion and reducing inflammation. Blended with banana, mango, coconut cream, almond milk, honey and salt, the healthy-ish smoothie is topped with coconut flakes. It’s a creamy, fruity and refreshing offering from the Instagram-famous Smith brothers (Alex, Travis and Koa) and friend Koa Rothman, surfer-entrepreneurs who now have five Sunrise Shack locations on O‘ahu. —DS Multiple locations, sunriseshackhawaii.com, @sunriseshack 24

HONOLULU MAGAZINE

FOOD & DRINK

THE REST OF THE BEST: READER PICKS BEST BAKERY

WINNER: LILIHA BAKERY Multiple locations, lilihabakery.com, @lilihabakery FINALIST: BREADSHOP 3408 Wai‘alae Ave., #104, breadsbybreadshop.com, @breadshophnl

BEST BURGER

WINNER: CHUBBIES BURGERS 1145C 12th Ave., (808) 291-7867, chubbiesburgers.com, @chubbieshawaii FINALIST: JOJA HAWAI‘I (808) 369-6985, jojahawaii.com, @joja.hawaii

BEST DINER

FINALIST: ZIPPY’S Multiple locations, zippys.com, @zippys

BEST FOOD TRUCK

WINNER: KHAO AND PAPAS @khaoandpapas FINALIST: HOMETOWN BBQ LLC @hometownbbqhi

BEST FRIED CHICKEN

WINNER: VONS CHICKEN Multiple locations, vonschickenfnb.com, @vonschickenhawaii FINALIST: POPEYES Multiple locations, popeyeshawaii.com, @popeyeshawaii

BEST FRIES

WINNER: CHUBBIES BURGERS 1145C 12th Ave., (808) 291-7867, chubbiesburgers.com, @chubbieshawaii FINALIST: BETTY’S BURGERS Multiple locations, (808) 762-0099, bettysburgershi.com, @bettysburgershonolulu

BEST GROCERY STORE

WINNER: FOODLAND Multiple locations, foodland.com, @foodlandhi FINALIST: DON QUIJOTE Multiple locations, donquijotehawaii.com, @donquijotehi

AARON K. YOSHINO

BEST LOCAL BEER

BEST LOCAL COFFEE ROASTER WINNER: HONOLULU COFFEE CO. Multiple locations, honolulucoffee.com, @honolulucoffee FINALIST: ALI‘I COFFEE CO. Multiple locations, aliicoffee.com, @aliicoffeeco

BEST LOCAL SNACK COMPANY

FINALIST: LIN’S HAWAIIAN SNACKS 401 Kamake‘e St., (808) 597-8899, linsmarkethawaii.com, @linshawaiiansnacks

BEST LOCAL SPIRIT WINNER: KŌ HANA HAWAIIAN AGRICOLE RUM 92-1770 Kunia Road, #227, Kunia, (808) 649-0830, kohanarum.com, @kohanarum FINALIST: KŌLOA RUM CO. 3-2087 Kaumuali‘i Highway, Līhu‘e, (808) 246-8900, koloarum.com, @koloarum

BEST PANCAKES

WINNER: EGGHEAD CAFÉ 1210 Dillingham Blvd., #8, (808) 888-2211, eggheadhonolulu.com, @egghead_cafe FINALIST: CINNAMON’S RESTAURANT 315 Uluniu St., Kailua, (808) 261-8724, cinnamons808. com, @cinnamonskailua

BEST POKE

WINNER: FOODLAND Multiple locations, foodland.com, @foodlandhi FINALIST: PARADISE POKE Multiple locations, paradisepokenuuanu.com, @paradisepokehi

BEST PIZZA

WINNER: J. DOLAN’S Multiple locations, jdolans.com, @jdolanshnl FINALIST: BRICK FIRE TAVERN 3447 Wai‘alae Ave., brickfiretavern.com, @brickfiretavern

BEST LOCO MOCO

BEST SANDWICH

BEST MATCHA DRINK

BEST SMOOTHIE BOWL

WINNER: LILIHA BAKERY Multiple locations, lilihabakery.com, @lilihabakery FINALIST: RAINBOW DRIVE-IN Mulitple locations, rainbowdrivein.com, @rainbowdrivein

WINNER: DAILY WHISK MATCHA 1114 11th Ave., (808) 490-3436, dailywhiskmatcha.com, @dailywhiskmatcha FINALIST: ARVO Multiple locations, arvocafe.com, @a_r_v_o

BEST MUSUBI

WINNER: 7-ELEVEN HAWAI‘I Multiple locations, 7elevenhawaii.com, @7elevenhi FINALIST: MUSUBI CAFÉ IYASUME Multiple locations, iyasumehawaii.com, @musubi_cafe_iyasume

WINNER: EARL HAWAI‘I Multiple locations, earlhawaii.com, @earlhawaii FINALIST: SPROUT SANDWICH SHOP 1154 Koko Head Ave., sproutsandwichshop.com, @sproutwich FINALIST: ISLAND VINTAGE COFFEE Multiple locations, islandvintagecoffee.com, @islandvintagecoffee

BEST VEGAN

WINNER: TANE VEGAN IZAKAYA 2065 S. Beretania St., (808) 888-7678, tanevegan.com, @tanevegan FINALIST: LĒ‘AHI HEALTH Multiple locations, leahihealth.com, @leahihealth808

WINNER: MAUI BREWING CO. Multiple locations, mauibrewingco.com, @mauibrewingco FINALIST: HANA KOA BREWING CO. 962 Kawaiaha‘o St., (808) 591-2337, hanakoabrewing.com, @hanakoabrewing

J U LY/A U G U S T 2 0 2 4

SHOPPING

BEST

BEACH-AND-BEYOND BAG If you need a mood boost, may we suggest a daily dose of Las Olitas handbags. The fledgling beachwear label is taking dopamine dressing to euphoric new heights with totes, bucket bags and crossbody styles that pair bold tropical graphics with vibrant, feel-good color combos. Made in Hawai‘i from beach-ready neoprene, the bags also come trimmed with contrasting neon zippers and sporty rope straps. Slip one on for an instantly brighter day and ensemble. —BT

COURTESY: LAS OLITAS/TARA ROCK

lasolitas.com, @las0litas

HONOLULU MAGAZINE

24-AFO

Arcadia

15 Craigside

2024 WINNER

Arcadia Adult Day Care & Day Health Center at Central Union Church

When it comes to your family, only the best will do. Thank you to the readers of HONOLULU Magazine and to our supporters for your votes! You helped us win the 2024 “Best of HONOLULU” awards. For 57 years, we’ve been your trusted resource for senior living options. We will continue to serve and protect the lives of Hawaii’s kupuna.

arcadia.org

24-AFOC-059 HonMag Best of Hon.indd 1

5/23/24 7:33 PM

SHOPPING

BEST

Garden Shop

Multiple locations, marisgardens.com, @maris_gardens

BEST

CRYSTAL SHOP

VINTAGE CLOTHING MEMBERSHIP

Tucked inside South Shore Market at Ward Village, Rock Candy is filled with colorful crystals selected by owner Chelsea Gines, who opened the shop in 2021. Nothing is batch-bought, and Gines carefully researches vendors, carvers and mines to make sure the products she carries adhere to ethical practices. A friend who’s deep into crystal culture says she’s spotted some unusual pieces there that she hasn’t seen anywhere else. And while crystal shops can be intimidating for those who know nothing about them, Rock Candy aims for inclusion. “We welcome spiritual people, scientists and fashion people,” Gines says. “We’re for everyone.” —DS

As the ancient fashion proverb goes: A mu‘u a day keeps the outfit boredom away. That’s something you could foreseeably achieve with a membership to the Mu‘umu‘u Library, which boasts hundreds of vintage and gently used dresses (the majority from Hawai‘i-based labels) that are available to take out on loan. Various membership packages offer tiered access to the catalog and the library’s collection of sewing patterns and literature. Plus, members can get in on sewing circles, workshops at the library’s Ward studio space and fun mu‘u-themed events. —BT

South Shore Market, 1170 Auahi St., #163, @rockcandyhawaii

DIANE SEO

Ward Centre, 1200 Ala Moana Blvd., Suite 220, muumuulibrary.org, @muumuulibrary

HONOLULU MAGAZINE

ILLUSTRATION: CHRISTINE LABRADOR

If you’re surprised at how much money you’ve forked over for houseplants, you’re not alone. We love our leafy friends. And no matter how many we amass, there always seems to be a cool new variety to swoon over. Partially to blame for this is Mari’s Gardens, the locally owned nursery-garden shop whose well-stocked outposts in Kaka‘ako, Mililani and Kailua make it easy to feed our plant obsession. Along with the trendiest plant species, Mari’s offers fruit trees, native Hawaiian plants, cacti and flowers. You’ll also find gardening tools, soil, a plethora of pots and more. —BT

AARON K. YOSHINO

(READER PICK)

MAHALO FOR FOR VOTING US THE BEST

Myron Kiriu

Jaymes Song

Sue Jo

Melyssa Shimamoto

Brett Aka

808-253-8477

808-372-7670

808-753-3923

R, CEO, Owner, RB-17242

RA, SRS, SRES, ABR, MRP, RS-74206

R, RB-23897 | 조연수 (English/ Korean)

MyronK@betterhawaii.com MyronKiriu.com

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suej@betterhawaii.com

MelyssaS@BetterHawaii.com

BrettA@betterhawaii.com

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808-224-5886

sueshihomes.com

RA, MRP RS-83369 | RA, RS-83651

SRS, ABR, RSPS, SRES, RENE, SFR R, RB-23886

TeamWu@betterhawaii.com

WendyA@betterhawaii.com

Michelle Doo Van Rafelghem

Marisa Sacks RA, RS-87060

RA, MRP, ABR, RS-85255

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MarisaS@BetterHawaii.com

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808-228-4869, 808-798-2098 HawaiiRealityScoop.com

RA, SRES, MBA, ABR, RS-39617

MichelleV@betterhawaii.com OahuDreamHome.com

808-454-3569

OurPacificHome.com

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DreamHomesByMarisa.com

RA, RS-79346

JoshuaM@BetterHawaii.com

R, RB-23913

MelyssaMShimamoto.com

R, RB-21263

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HawaiiAdvantageRE.com

Daria Andreev

Jessica Yuhara

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AkaHomesHawaii.com

R, BIC, RB-18941 | R, RB-19593

JoshuaMunHawaii.com

808-674-7152

RA, RS-75473

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Jeff Char & Taryn Loo

R, ABR, MRP, SRES, RB-23468 & RB-23478

808-800-6521

808-372-2282, 808-389-3750

HawaiiWithJessica.com

PrimePropertiesHawaii.com

JessicaY@BetterHawaii.com

TeamChar@betterhawaii.com

We are honored to be recognized for 12 years as one of the Best Companies in Honolulu. Mahalo to our 200+ employees and agents for going above and beyond to assist our clients, community and each other. They are the heart of our company and make us better, every day.

BET TERHAWAII.COM | 808.738.3600 | @betterhawaii KAHALA | KAILUA | KAKAAKO | KAPOLEI | HALEIWA | WAILUKU ©2024 Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Advantage Realty. Better Homes and Gardens® is a registered trademark of Meredith Corporation licensed to Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate LLC. Equal Opportunity Company. Equal Housing Opportunity. An Independently Owned and Operated Franchise. Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Advantage Realty North Shore, Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Advantage Realty West, and Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Advantage Realty Valley Isle are affiliates of Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Advantage Realty.

SHOPPING

BEST

BREEZY SEPARATES Whether employing gauzy crinkled linen or a relaxed crunched cotton (as seen in our cover model Kellyna’s two-piece set), Kailua label Gillia is an expert at creating effortlessly chic tops and bottoms that can be rocked together or mixed and matched to stylish effect. —BT 131 Hekili St., Suite 113, Kailua, gilliaclothing.com, @gilliaclothing

BEST

SUN HAT

2023 WINNER

daycampcollective.com, @day_camp_

AARON K. YOSHINO

COURTESY: SALVAGE PUBLIC

Sunshine in hat form is how we would describe Waialua label Day Camp’s breezy toppers. Built like a bucket hat but with a taller crown and wider brim that can be flipped up to charming effect, they look fab on just about every dome. Designer Wendy Snow hand cuts the headwear in small batches and offers them in simple solids, chic leopard and dotted patterns, and (our fave) poppy hand-stamped floral prints. —BT

BEST

OUTERWEAR A word to the fashion-wise: It would be easy to focus your attention on Salvage Public’s cool graphic tees. We get it—we’ve developed our own addiction. But don’t sleep on the local label’s stellar outwear. Though its jackets are at the higher end of the brand’s price points, they’re well worth it, boasting a slew of crazy-good design details. Take the vintage-style Naval Laua‘e jacket, for instance, made in Japan with zipped side seams, magnetic front pocket closures and gusseted shoulder seams. Or the Ililani Rain Jacket, crafted from a waterproof Japanese performance nylon and outfitted with snap-off sleeves and reflective print at the cuffs and back. They’re investment pieces that will only appreciate in swag. —BT South Shore Market, 1170 Auahi St., salvagepublic.com, @salvagepublic 30

HONOLULU MAGAZINE

Mahalo!

We’re proud to be voted as Honolulu’s Best Fitness Studio! Honolulu Magazine’s “Best Pilates Studio” 2023

We’re proud to be voted as Honolulu’s Best Pilates Studio. Reserve Your Reserve Your

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SHOPPING

BEST

Keiki Gift Shop If we were to assign Selfmade Something a class superlative, it would easily be: Most likely to make other kids jealous. That’s because the mom-owned keiki shop is brimming with design-forward games, toys, activities and books that are just as cool looking as they are educational and fun. Since opening in 2023, the shop has become one of our gift go-tos for style-minded ‘ohana. We love that it prioritizes quality materials and sources from indie designers and AAPI-owned brands. —BT

AARON K. YOSHINO

Ward Centre, 1200 Ala Moana Blvd., Suite 41B, selfmadesomething.com, @selfmadesomething

BEST

By now, you probably know about Mohala Eyewear, the local label that changed the glasses game with its sunnies designed for Asian faces. But you may not realize that designer Ashley Johnson recently expanded her line to include equally chic prescription eyeglasses. Currently, you can shop four core styles in a variety of hues. You can even try before you buy, à la Warby Parker, and take three pairs out for a quick five-day spin. —BT mohalaeyewear.com, @mohalaeyewear

HONOLULU MAGAZINE

COURTESY: MOHALA EYEWEAR/KENNA REED

EYEGLASSES

> edwardjones.com | Member SIPC

Why see a financial advisor? just when the market is in the midst of a rally. But a financial advisor can steer clients toward a more disciplined approach, such as buying quality investments and holding them for the long term, regardless of the ups and downs of the market.

Investing for your future is important — but it can be challenging. How can you navigate the complexities of the financial markets and make the right decisions for your situation? Fortunately, you don’t have to go it alone. A financial advisor can help you in these key areas:

Checking progress toward your goals — If you were to invest without any guidance, you might not be looking at your investments’ performance with the proper perspective. For example, some investors simply compare their portfolio returns against a widely used market index, such as the S&P 500. But this comparison may not be that useful. The S&P 500 only measures the stock prices of the leading publicly traded U.S. companies by market capitalization — but your investment portfolio, if properly diversified, will include investments other than U.S. stocks, such as bonds, government securities, international stocks and more. Consequently, the performance of your portfolio won’t track that of the S&P 500 or any other single index, either. Your financial advisor can help you employ more meaningful benchmarks, such as whether your portfolio’s progress is on track toward helping you meet your financial goals. Also, a financial advisor will review your portfolio and investment strategy regularly to determine what changes, if any, need to be made, either in response to the markets or to events in your life.

Developing a personal financial strategy — Many factors go into creating a long-term financial strategy. What is your risk tolerance? When would you like to retire? What sort of retirement lifestyle have you envisioned? What are your other important goals? A financial advisor will ask these and other questions in getting to know you, your family situation and your hopes for the future. By taking this type of holistic approach, a financial advisor can help you create financial and investment strategies appropriate for your needs. Avoiding mistakes — A financial advisor can help you avoid costly investment mistakes. One such mistake is attempting to “time” the market. Investors pursue market timing when they try to “buy low” and “sell high.” In theory, of course, this is a great idea — if you could consistently buy investments — stocks, in particular — when their price is down and then sell them when the price has risen significantly, you’d always make some tidy profits. The main drawback to this technique, though, is that it’s virtually impossible to follow, especially for individual investors. Nobody, not even professional money managers, can really predict with any accuracy when stock prices have reached high or low points. Consequently, those who try to make these guesses could miss out on opportunities. For example, investors who are determined to buy low might not want to purchase investments when the market is up — but this practice could lead to taking a “time out” from investing

Investing for your future can be exciting and rewarding — and you can feel more confident in your decisions when you have someone helping you along the way. This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor. Edward Jones, Member SIPC.

Financial strategies. One-on-one advice. Lenn Yonemura Mililani 808-625-4404

Andrea Chen

Kailua 808-247-6434

Shane C Shimatsu, CEPA®, AAMS™

Allen Inda, CcFC®, AAMS™

Darryl L Wong

David A Nako

Julia S Castillo, AAMS™, CRPS™

Chris Byrer, CFP®, AAMS™

Tadahiro Meya, CFP®, AAMS™, CRPC™

Aiea 808-487-5066 Honolulu 808-533-4980

Wailuku 808-244-7132

Honolulu 808-955-6440

Kaneohe 808-247-2072

Kaneohe 808-235-0111

Chad M Nakamura, CFP®, ChFC®, AAMS™, CRPC™, CRPS™ Kapolei 808-674-9218

Mililani 808-485-1569

Andrei K Ichinose, CFP®

Gareth I Kaneshiro AAMS™, CRPC™

Justin D McClain, CFP®

Matthew W Joswick, AAMS™

Helen Y Curlow, CFP®

Andrew D Lang

Gavin C Cook

Kara Ly

Linda M Le, AAMS™, CRPC™

Paul T Berardo, CEPA®

Katrina K Dangleman, AAMS™

Randin A Yagi

Keoki S Ching

Kevin M O’Keefe

Ryan Holt, CFP®, AAMS™

Waipahu 808-671-1085

Honolulu 808-395-0177

Aiea 808-626-5311

Honolulu 808-373-9977

Honolulu 808-596-4692 Honolulu 808-974-7078

Carl T Takata, CFP®

Grant T Kurosawa

Alek S Ahana, CFP®, AAMS™

Jennifer H Rappenecker, AAMS™

Will Stack, CFP®

Kelly M Shota, CFP®, ChFC®, CRPS™

Christopher C Lee CFP®, AAMS™

John-David A Nako, CFA®

Greg T Nakajo, CRPC™

Shaun T Kiriu

Yayoi TsutakawaChinn, CFP®

Honolulu 808-833-1999

Lihue 808-632-0351

Honolulu 808-373-7489

Honolulu 808-691-9112

Honolulu 808-260-4588

Kihei 808-874-6975

Pearl City 808-454-1932

Mililani 808-625-4404 Kailua 808-247-6434

Honolulu 808-988-9225

Honolulu 808-739-1825

Honolulu 808-734-8889

Honolulu 808-395-4432 Aiea 808-487-1800

Kapolei 808-940-0612

Khoi D Bui, CFP®, AAMS™, CRPC™ Honolulu 808-940-0612

Honolulu 808-591-8757

Ewa Beach 808-699-2100 Honolulu 808-947-2255

Kailua 808-263-4784

Scott D Hampton, AAMS™ Kailua 808-262-13504

SHOPPING

BEST

Going green doesn’t mean you need to overhaul your life. Small changes can make a big impact—something Hunter Long and Jill Deolindo understood when they opened the Keep It Simple zero-waste shop in Kaimukī in 2020. True to its name, the items stocked are easy to incorporate into current routines. Swap plastic wrap for beeswax food covers, opt for reusable silicone sandwich pouches, and trade shampoo bottles for shampoo bars from the refill station. They’re also fun and stylish—the wool dryer balls feature rainbow and monstera designs, the bamboo brushes give off a cool Japandi vibe, and the apparel racks are filled with eco-chic bikinis and upcycled aloha shirts. —BT 3466 Wai‘alae Ave., (808) 744-3115, keepitsimplezerowaste.com, @keepitsimplehonolulu

AARON K. YOSHINO

Eco-Boutique (READER PICK)

THE REST OF THE BEST: READER PICKS BEST ALOHA ATTIRE WINNER: REYN SPOONER Multiple locations, reynspooner.com, @reynspooner FINALIST: TORI RICHARD Multiple locations, toririchard.com, @toririchard

BEST BIKE SHOP WINNER: MCCULLY BICYCLE AND SPORTING GOODS 2124 S. King St., (808) 955-6329, mccullybike.com, @mccullybike FINALIST: BIKE FACTORY HAWAI‘I Multiple locations, bikefactoryhawaii.com, @bikefactoryhawaii

BEST ECO-BOUTIQUE FINALIST: PROTEA ZERO WASTE STORE 35 Kainehe St., #102, Kailua, (808) 744-0184, proteazerowaste.com, @proteazerowaste

BEST FARMERS MARKET WINNER: KAKA‘AKO FARMERS MARKET 919 Ala Moana Blvd., (808) 388-9696, farmloversmarkets.com, @alohafarmlovers

HONOLULU MAGAZINE

FINALIST: KAPI‘OLANI COMMUNITY COLLEGE FARMERS MARKET 4303 Diamond Head Road, Parking Lot C, (808) 848-2074, hfbf.org/farmers-markets/kcc, @hfbfarmersmarkets

BEST FURNITURE STORE WINNER: INSPIRATION INTERIORS Multiple locations, inspirationinteriors.com, @inspirationinteriors FINALIST: HOMEWORLD Multiple locations, homeworld.com, @homeworldfurniture

BEST GARDEN SHOP FINALIST: PLANTOEM 3457 Wai‘alae Ave., Unit 203, (808) 807-7826, plantoem.com, @plantoem

BEST JEWELRY STORE WINNER: LAINE HONOLULU Ala Moana Center, 1450 Ala Moana Blvd., #3825, lainehonolulu.com, @lainehonolulu FINALIST: OCEAN CREATIONS Multiple locations, oceancreationshawaii.com, @oceancreations

BEST LOCAL BOOKSTORE WINNER: DA SHOP: BOOKS + CURIOSITIES 3565 Harding Ave., (808) 421-9460, dashophnl.com, @dashophnl FINALIST: BOOKENDS KAILUA 600 Kailua Road, #126, Kailua, (808) 261-1996, bookendskailua.com, @bookendskailua

BEST NEW BOUTIQUE WINNER: ISLAND-BOY 3464 Wai‘alae Ave., (808) 221-3676, islandboy.shop, @islandboy.shop FINALIST: LEXBREEZY HAWAI‘I Multiple locations, lexbreezyhawaii.com, @lexbreezyhawaii

BEST PET SHOP WINNER: THE PUBLIC PET 3422 Wai‘alae Ave., Suite 101, (808) 737-8887, thepublicpet.com, @thepublicpet FINALIST: KALIHI PET CENTER 1199 Dillingham Blvd., #101, (808) 841-5234, kalihipetcenter.net, @kalihipetcenter

BEST PLACE FOR HOME ACCESSORIES WINNER: SOHA LIVING Multiple locations, sohaliving.com, @sohaliving FINALIST: NOHO HOME 94-1388 Moaniani St., Suite #217, Waipahu, (808) 779-8576, nohohomehawaii.com, @nohohome

BEST SURF SHOP WINNER: T&C SURF DESIGNS Multiple locations, tcsurf.com, @tcsurfshop FINALIST: HAWAIIAN ISLANDS CREATIONS Multiple locations, hicsurf.com, @hicenjoytheride

BEST SWIMWEAR WINNER: TAI SWIM CO. taiswim.co, @taiswim.co FINALIST: MAOI SWIM maoiswim.com, @maoiswim

BEST

FREE WOMEN’S SELF-DEFENSE CLASS At DVG Jiu Jitsu, monthly classes geared toward women will teach you a variety of self-defense techniques, from being aware of your surroundings to choking out an attacker. And each month is different, since there is always something new to practice. Instructors demonstrate moves before students split into groups and practice on each other. We went as complete newbies, but the DVG regulars—and there were plenty of them, both women and teenage girls—helped us feel comfortable while punching and twisting the arms of strangers. Even if you’re not a DVG student, the women’s self-defense classes (held the first Wednesday of the month) are always free. —KV

MARK SKITSKY/ISTOCK/GETTY IMAGES PLUS VIA GETTY IMAGES

HEALTH & WELLNESS

BEST

PLACE TO RENT WATERSPORTS GEAR (READER PICK)

BEST

Outdoor Yoga Yogis who prefer an outdoor flow to studio sessions will enjoy beach and ocean views at Yoga Under the Palms’ daily morning Vinyasa classes on the lawn adjacent to the Waikīkī Aquarium, near Queen’s Surf. With a $20 drop-in rate (you can also buy a five-class pack for $65 or 10 sessions for $100), you’ll start your day with an uplifting hour of cat-cows, downward dogs, chaturangas, Warrior 1s and 2s and relatively simple sequences. Even if you wake up stiff and surly, the views and breezes of these sessions will lift your mood and work out the kinks. The Waikīkī beach classes are among the many offerings of Yoga Under the Palms, which also has three O‘ahu studios. —DS 2743 Kalākaua Ave., yogaunderthepalms.com, @yogaunderthepalms 36

HONOLULU MAGAZINE

For more than 40 years, Kailua Beach Adventures has offered explorations of the Windward Coast. And while tour companies—especially in Kailua—can be controversial, KBA focuses on sustainable tourism through cleanups, restoration projects and partnerships with local environmental organizations. The company was awarded Surfrider Foundation’s John Kelly Award for environmental conscientiousness in 2016. Take a tour or go out on your own with a rented kayak, snorkel, stand-up paddleboard, boogie board or surfboard. Kama‘āina get 25% off. —KV 130 Kailua Road, Suite 101b, Kailua, (808) 262-2555, kailuabeachadventures.com, @kailuabeachadventures

VALERIIA SOLOVEVA/ISTOCK/GETTY IMAGES PLUS VIA GETTY IMAGES

COURTESY: YOGA UNDER THE PALMS

99-1324 Koaha Place, ‘Aiea, (808) 435-6361, dvgjiujitsu.com, @dvgjiujitsu

OCULOFACIAL PLASTIC SURGERY OF HAWAII

DR. BRADFORD W. LEE

2024

Dr. Bradford Lee is an internationally recognized oculofacial plastic surgeon and board-certified ophthalmologist specializing in cosmetic and reconstructive surgery of the eyelids and face. A graduate of ‘Iolani School, Harvard University, and Stanford Medical School, he was a professor of oculofacial plastic surgery from 2015 to 2021 at the University of Miami Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, ranked the #1 eye hospital in the U.S. for the past 20 years. He has trained residents, fellows, and visiting professors from all over the world and serves as Associate Clinical Professor and Chief of Oculoplastic Surgery at the University of Hawaii John A.Burns School of Medicine. SERVICES • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Upper and lower blepharoplasty (eyelid surgery) Asian double eyelid surgery Ptosis repair (for droopy eyelids) Brow and forehead lift Mini and full facelift Neck lift/neck liposuction Facial fat transfer Revision eyelid and facial surgery Cosmetic injectables (botox, fillers) Laser scar removal Laser skin rejuvenation Microneedling RF Microneedling Reconstructive oculofacial surgery Thyroid eye disease Orbital tumors, trauma & diseases

Dr. Lee provides compassionate, patient-centered care and uses leading-edge surgical techniques and technology to help patients refresh, rejuvenate, and enhance their eyes and face.

Thank you for voting us Honolulu’s

Best Cosmetic Surgery! 808-888-9981 www.drbradfordlee.com

1380 Lusitana St. Suite 912 @drbradfordlee

HEALTH & WELLNESS

BEST

Lagree workouts are touted as Pilates Reformer classes on steroids, and after trying it, I have to say—it’s true. Although I’ve done a lot of Pilates, the low-impact, high-intensity Lagree sessions at Komo Studio in Kailua truly tested my strength, endurance and balance from the moment I got on a “Megaformer.” Lagree provides a killer full-body workout with focused, slow movements, and no breaks in between. By the end, my entire body—but especially my core—was feeling it, in a good way. Komo owner Joy Bitonio opened the first Lagree studio on O‘ahu four years ago. The fact that the studio, a modern, bright and clean space, not only survived pandemic disruptions but now has a loyal, robust membership is testament to its appeal and the effectiveness of the 40-minute workout. —DS 315 Uluniu St., Suite 209, Kailua, (808) 691-9161, komohawaii.com, @komohawaii

COURTESY: STUDIO 7 HAWAI‘I

BEST

COURTESY: ERIC ROSSO

NEW “IT” WELLNESS ACTIVITY We take an estimated 20,000 breaths a day, but to reap optimal physical and mental benefits we must “consciously” breathe, which means being fully aware of our breaths. That’s what you’ll learn at breathwork classes, like Eric Rosso’s monthly two-hour workshop, Breathwork with Eric, offered at Yoga Room Hawai‘i and now at Magic Island. Rosso took part in what he says were transformative breathwork sessions at a Costa Rica wellness retreat and was inspired to share what he learned in Hawai‘i. Along with relieving stress and unleashing trapped emotions, Rosso says conscious breathing helps our bodies become more alkaline, which can fend off diseases. Since starting up a few years ago, the workshops have become increasingly popular with both newcomers and regulars, who wear headsets to listen to prompts set to uplifting music. —DS breathworkwitheric.com 38

HONOLULU MAGAZINE

BEST

CONTRAST THERAPY To boost your mood, stimulate your metabolism and gain mental clarity, plunge into contrast therapy at Studio 7 Hawai‘i, where you’ll rotate between ice-cold immersions and time in a hot sauna. By shocking your body with extreme temperatures, you’ll jump-start your lymphatic system, stimulate blood flow and experience an endorphin high while reducing inflammation. Whether you choose to go solo or with friends, Austyn Shimkus-Sciuto’s backyard oasis near Lē‘ahi is the perfect mini wellness retreat. —TO 3144 Monsarrat Ave., (808) 978-4195, studio7hawaii.com, @studio7hawaii

COURTESY: KOMO STUDIO

Fitness Studio to Get a Killer Core

WE POWER HAWAI I

2024 WINNER

Mahalo!

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Call us at 808.748.8888 or visit revolusun.com to Join the Revolusun®, today!

HEALTH & WELLNESS

THE REST OF THE BEST:

BEST

READER PICKS

LOCALLY OWNED PILATES STUDIO It’s not easy for local studios to compete with big-box fitness franchises with wide name recognition. But Pilates O Ka Lā on Monsarrat Avenue holds its own in the city’s increasingly crowded Pilates scene. The studio offers a seven-day lineup of group classes and private sessions, and instructors provide lots of hands-on corrections so students can fully reap the lengthening and strengthening benefits of the Pilates Reformer. In a testimonial on the studio’s website, Olympic surfing champion Carissa Moore says that since she started training there she’s “standing taller, quite literally, and [is] more confident.” Surely, if it’s good for Carissa, it’s good for us too. —DS 3106 Monsarrat Ave., (808) 744-1101, pilatesokala.com, @pilatesokala

COURTESY: PILATES O KA LĀ

BEST FITNESS STUDIO (NOT INCLUDING YOGA)

WINNER: CLUB PILATES HONOLULU 987 Queen St., Suite 102, (808) 940-0788, clubpilates.com, @clubpilateshonolulu FINALIST: STRETCHLAB KĀHALA 4211 Wai‘alae Ave., UB-7, (808) 468-5464, stretchlab.com, @stretchlabkahala

BEST GYM

WINNER: 24 HOUR FITNESS Multiple locations, 24hourfitness.com, @24hourfitnesshonolulu FINALIST: UFC GYM Multiple locations, ufcgym.com, @ufcgymhonolulu

BEST PLACE TO RENT WATERSPORTS GEAR

FINALIST: WAIKĪKĪ BEACH SERVICES Multiple locations, waikikibeachservices.com, @waikikibeachservices808

BEST YOGA STUDIO

WINNER: YOGA ROOM HAWAI‘I 1120 12th Ave., (808) 376-0087, yogaroomhawaii.com, @yogaroomhawaii FINALIST: COREPOWER YOGA Multiple locations, corepoweryoga.com, @corepoweryoga

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ENTERTAINMENT & LEISURE

BEST

If you get excited about petting zoos, you’ll want to check out Nalo YO K. Keiki Paniolo and N O A AR its mobile menagerie of farm animals, including goats, sheep, mini horses, rabbits and tortoises. For an even more interactive experience, head to its Waimānalo ranch for Paniolo Play Day (every third Friday) to meet more animals, like alpacas and donkeys, and even feed some of them. Plus, keiki can enjoy pony rides for $5. There’s also shave ice and popcorn for sale. —AL

PLACE TO PET ANIMALS

AARON K. YOSHINO

COURTESY: WAI KAI

41-632 Mokulama St., Waimānalo, (808) 291-6778, nalokeikipaniolo.com, @nalo.keiki.paniolo

BEST BEST

NEW OBSTACLE COURSE The scariest part of an obstacle course is falling, but at Wai Kai AquaVenture, at least you’re falling into a warm lagoon. And you will get wet—you have to swim a short distance from the dock, then climb up the side of the inflatable course before the fun begins. Use a rope to scale a wall and then cannonball into the water 10 feet below. Swing from monkey bars, sprint across floating steps and try not to suck in salt water when you snort with laughter. There’s a separate area for kids ages 4 to 6, but the main course is open to folks 7 and up. Expect plenty of kids, teens and adults (some on the older side!) roaming and playing for hours. —KV The LineUp at Wai Kai, 91-1621 Keone‘ula Blvd., ‘Ewa Beach, (808) 515-7873, atthelineup.com, @waikailineup 42

HONOLULU MAGAZINE

Tour for Locals and Visitors It took 50 years of caring for plumeria before Jim Little decided to open his 20-acre Hale‘iwa farm to the public last summer. Since then, the response has been overwhelming. Named USA Today’s Best New Attraction in America earlier this year, Little Plumeria Farms appeals to locals and visitors alike. “It’s crazy and is beyond what we dreamed of when we started our farm tours last year,” says Clark Little, famed surf photographer, Jim’s son and co-manager of the farm. From April to October, the family of Littles (including Clark’s son, Dane) gives tours to anyone who wants to learn more about their rare hybrids and pick pua in the fragrant groves situated on high ground with a sprawling view of the North Shore. Expect to come away with dozens of flowers. Not sure what to do with them? Turn to page 47 for the best place to learn to make lei. —KV Meet at Tsue’s Farm, 62-400 Joseph P. Leong Highway, Hale‘iwa, (808) 367-4119, littleplumeriafarms.com, @littleplumeriafarms

MAHALO FOR VOTING YOGA ROOM HAWAII AS HONOLULU MAGAZINE’S BEST YOGA STUDIO FOR 2024! • • • • • •

80+ classes per week 40+ of your favorite instructors Infrared heat 7 formats Something for everyone! Start your free week today! Yoga Room Hawaii 1120 12th Avenue, 2nd Floor Honolulu, HI 96816 808.376.0087 www.yogaroomhawaii.com IG: yogaroomhawaii

ENTERTAINMENT & LEISURE

THE REST OF THE BEST: READER PICKS BEST CLUB FOR DANCING

WINNER: SCARLET HONOLULU 80 S. Pauahi St., (808) 744-0210, scarlethonolulu.com, @scarlethnl FINALIST: THE DISTRICT 1349 Kapi‘olani Blvd., (808) 949-1349, thedistricthi.com, @thedistricthi

BEST COMMUNITY THEATER

WINNER: DIAMOND HEAD THEATRE 520 Makapu‘u Ave., (808) 733-0274, diamondheadtheatre.com, @diamondheadtheatre FINALIST: MĀNOA VALLEY THEATRE 2833 E. Mānoa Road, (808) 988-6131, manoavalleytheatre.com, @manoavalleytheatre

BEST ESCAPE ROOM

WINNER: THE ESCAPE GAME HONOLULU Ala Moana Center, 1450 Ala Moana Blvd., Space 2404, (808) 736-3834, theescapegame.com/honolulu, @theescapegame FINALIST: BREAKOUT WAIKĪKĪ 227 Lewers St., #112, (808) 926-1418, breakoutwaikiki.com, @breakoutwaikiki

BEST HOTEL FOR A STAYCATION

WINNER: THE KĀHALA HOTEL & RESORT 5000 Kāhala Ave., (808) 739-8811, kahalaresort.com, @kahala_resort FINALIST: TURTLE BAY RESORT 57-091 Kamehameha Highway, Kahuku, (866) 475-2567, turtlebayresort.com, @turtlebayresort

BEST LGBTQIA+ BAR/CLUB

WINNER: SCARLET HONOLULU 80 S. Pauahi St., (808) 744-0210, scarlethonolulu.com, @scarlethnl FINALIST: HULA’S BAR & LEI STAND 134 Kapahulu Ave., (808) 923-0669, hulas.com, @hulaswaikiki

BEST LIVE MUSIC VENUE

WINNER: BLUE NOTE HAWAI‘I 2335 Kalākaua Ave., (808) 777-4890, bluenotejazz.com/hawaii, @bluenotehawaii FINALIST: THE REPUBLIK 1349 Kapi‘olani Blvd., #30, (808) 941-7469, jointherepublik.com, @jointherepublik

BEST MOVIE THEATER

WINNER: CONSOLIDATED THEATRES - WARD 1044 Auahi St., (808) 594-7044, consolidatedtheatres.com/ward, @consolidatedhi

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FINALIST: CONSOLIDATED THEATRES- KĀHALA 4211 Wai‘alae Ave., (808) 733-6243, consolidatedtheatres.com/kahala, @consolidatedhi

BEST PLACE TO CELEBRATE AN ANNIVERSARY WINNER: HY’S STEAK HOUSE 2440 Kūhiō Ave., (808) 922-5555, hyswaikiki.com, @hyshawaii FINALIST: ROY’S HAWAI‘I KAI 6600 Kalaniana‘ole Highway, Suite 110, (808) 396-7697, royyamaguchi.com, @royshawaii

BEST PLACE TO HOLD A CELEBRATION

WINNER: ALOHA O‘AHU WEDDINGS LLC 46-133 Lilipuna Road, Kāne‘ohe, (808) 436-2901, alohaoahuweddings.com, @alohaoahuweddings FINALIST: NATSUNOYA TEA HOUSE 1935 Makanani Drive, (808) 595-4488, natsunoyahawaii.com, @natsunoyateahouse

BEST PLACE TO PAU HANA

WINNER: MOKU KITCHEN 660 Ala Moana Blvd., No. 145, (808) 591-6658, mokukitchen.com, @mokukitchen

FINALIST: ALOHA BEER CO. Multiple locations, (808) 544-1605, alohabeer.com, @alohabeerco

BEST PLACE TO PLAY TOURIST

WINNER: WAIKĪKĪ CRAWLING: HISTORY TOUR PUB CRAWLS waikikicrawling.com, @waikikicrawling FINALIST: KUALOA RANCH 49-560 Kamehameha Highway, Kāne‘ohe, (808) 237-7321, kualoa.com, @kualoaranch

BEST PLACE TO SEE ART

WINNER: HONOLULU MUSEUM OF ART 900 S. Beretania St., (808) 532-8700, honolulumuseum.org, @honolulumuseum FINALIST: CAPITOL MODERN 250 S. Hotel St., second floor, (808) 586-0900, capitolmodern.org, @capitolmodern

BEST PLACE TO TAKE OUT-OF-TOWNERS

WINNER: ‘IOLANI PALACE 364 S. King St., (808) 522-0822, iolanipalace.org, @iolanipalacehi FINALIST: BISHOP MUSEUM 1525 Bernice St., (808) 847-3511, bishopmuseum.org, @bishopmuseum

Victoria Ward Park

C o n g ra

tula

PARADI t io n s to SE POK E

Our Fan Fav Winner orite 2024

MAHALO

Mahalo to the thousands of hungry poke fans who joined us for the seventh annual Frolic Hawai‘i Poke Fest! On Saturday, May 18, we gathered some of the best restaurants at Ka Makana Ali‘i for the biggest celebration of poke yet. Guests enjoyed live entertainment, freebies from Poke Fest sponsors, ‘ono food and a gorgeous West Side sunset.

THANK YOU TO OUR PARTICIPATING VENDORS: Ali‘i Fish Market, Asato Family Shop, Cake’d in Grace, Chyler’s Hawaiian Beef Chips, CaneLei Hawai‘i, Catzzy, Da Bald Guy Food Truck, Dahubstore, Da Mochi Guys, Daily Whisk Matcha, FEAST, Fort Ruger, HanaPa‘a Market, Hawaiian Soda Co., Ilea’s Kitchen, In Peace, Island Sausage, Kahiau Poke & Porvisions, Kapa Hale, Kickin’ Sweets, Local Poke Bowl, Makanai (Sushi King), Monarch Poke, Nico’s Pier 38, Ono Fresh, Paradise Poke Hawaii, Pop Culture Artisan Pops, Pop Up Poke, Princess Liz Creations, Reecieb’s Onolicious Local Food, Ruby’s 2.0, Sama Sama, Sato Seafood, Streats of Aloha, This Lil Piggy, Uncle Lani’s Poi Mochi, Wailua BBQ

A BIG MAHALO TO OUR SPONSORS

AARON K. YOSHINO

SERVICE S

Coworking Space HONOLULU Magazine has a downtown office, but when we meet as a team, need a projector or hold workshops, we make our way to Hub Coworking Hawai‘i. Beyond the physical space—the largest workshop room is 960 square feet and fits up to 30 people—the Hub offers amenities like Big Island Coffee Roasters coffee and kombucha for members, along with pizza parties, mail service and even showers. Ideal for podcasters (there are two soundproof booths), entrepreneurs and anyone in between, the Hub’s main Queen Street location offers a variety of office spaces, meeting rooms and desks. The kitchen is even available for cooking demos. Bonus: Thyda’s Tacos is just steps from the front door. Another location at International Market Place and the Entrepreneurs Sandbox in Kaka‘ako are also available. —KV Multiple locations, hubcoworkinghi.com, @hubcoworkinghi

BEST

CAT HOTEL

PLACE TO RENT TOOLS

I don’t have a cat yet, but when I inevitably adopt one, I’ll no doubt wonder where my fur baby will go when I travel. Fortunately, there’s The Cat’s Meow Inn. Opened in 2015, it was the first cat hotel on O‘ahu and remains the only 24-hour facility providing round-the-clock care for an extremely reasonable nightly rate of $25. In thousands of glowing online reviews, customers credit the family-run business with pampering their kitties and providing excellent customer service, including offering complimentary islandwide pickups and drop-offs, and daily updates on their feline family members. —AL

HNL Tool Library’s $45 monthly membership fee is cheaper than renting a single tool at other places, and you can borrow from a catalog of more than 1,400 items. If you’re new to everything DIY, take advantage of the library’s educational materials or sign up for workshops, which provide instruction on more complex tools, like the laser engraver and 3D printer, which members can use for additional fees. —AL

(808) 859-9236, thecatsmeowinnllc.com, @thecatsmeowinn 46

HONOLULU MAGAZINE

Re-Use Hawai‘i, 200 Keawe St., (808) 746-2299, hnltoollibrary.org, @hnltoollibrary

ILLUSTRATIONS: RUDZHAN NAGIEV/ISTOCK/GETTY IMAGES PLUS VIS GETTY IMAGES, ILYABOLOTOV/ISTOCK/GETTY IMAGES PLUS VIA GETTY IMAGES

BEST

SERVICE S

BEST

Place to Learn to Make Lei Nestled in the forest on Pālehua on the southern slopes of the Wai‘anae Range, the secluded cabin retreat of renowned architect Vladimir Ossipoff offers jaw-dropping views of the Wai‘anae Coast. Learn to make lei with Island-Boy and Paiko at Ossipoff Cabin. With this stunning backdrop, Andrew Mau, who owns Island-Boy boutique, and Courtney Monahan of Paiko lead a workshop on lei po‘o, or flower crowns. It’s a lesson you’ll remember for life. —TO

FIONA YEUNG

BEST

AAR ON K. YOS HINO

Location disclosed upon booking, islandboy.shop, @islandboy.shop

PLACE FOR QUALITY PET FOOD Pets are family, and we want our beloved furry besties with us forever. So, while it’s costly to buy top-of-the-line food and treats, many of us opt for the most nutritious options regardless of price. Calvin & Susie, with stores in Kaimukī and Kailua, is well known for its premium dog and cat food, carrying the highest quality brands, whether it comes dried, canned, raw, cooked or freeze-dried. The shop’s focus is on whole ingredients that are responsibly sourced and minimally processed. More pluses: knowledgeable staff that can answer questions about all the brands, and an online order form that allows for quick pickups. —DS

BEST

VETERINARIAN (READER PICK) Offering acupuncture, veterinary dentistry and Chinese herbal medicine, Dr. Pauline Koreyasu combines Eastern and Western medicine practices at Kaka‘ako Pet Hospital. She and her team of veterinarians, assistants and technicians provide a wide range of services to keep your furry family members in prime health. —TO 815 Queen St., (808) 592-9999, kakaakopethospital.com, @kakaakopethospital IN

Multiple locations, calvinandsusie.com, @calvinandsusie S

N AARO

J U LY/A U G U S T 2 0 2 4

SERVICE S

THE REST OF THE BEST: READER PICKS BEST ADULT DAY CARE

WINNER: ARCADIA ADULT DAY CARE & DAY HEALTH CENTER AT CENTRAL UNION CHURCH 1660 S. Beretania St., (808) 983-5910, arcadia.org FINALIST: PĀLOLO CHINESE HOME 2459 10th Ave., (808) 748-4911, palolohome.org, @palolo_chinese_home

BEST AUTO DETAILER

WINNER: SHEA’S LUXURY DETAIL 593 Kamehameha Highway, Pearl City, (808) 232-6502, autodetailhawaii.com, @sheasluxuryceramiccoatings FINALIST: THIRSTY CARS Multiple locations, thirstycars.com, @thirstycars808

BEST AUTO INSURANCE COMPANY

WINNER: STATE FARM Multiple locations, statefarm.com, @statefarm FINALIST: GEICO Multiple locations, geico.com, @geico

BEST AUTOMOTIVE REPAIR

WINNER: LEX BRODIE’S TIRE, BRAKE & SERVICE CO. Multiple locations, lexbrodies.com, @lexbrodiesoahu

BEST EMPLOYMENT/STAFFING COMPANY

FINALIST: KAIMUKĪ AUTO REPAIR 3375 Wai‘alae Ave., (808) 737-1718, @kaimukiautorepair

BEST BANK

WINNER: FIRST HAWAIIAN BANK Multiple locations, fhb.com, @fhbhawaii FINALIST: AMERICAN SAVINGS BANK Multiple locations, asbhawaii.com, @asbhawaii

BEST COOLING AND AIR CONDITIONING

WINNER: REVOLUSUN LLC 660 Ala Moana Blvd., #220a, (808) 427-0611, revolusun.com, @revolusun_smarthome FINALIST: ALTERNATE ENERGY INC. 96-1276 Waihona St., Suite 114, Pearl City, (808) 842-5853, alternateenergyhawaii.com, @aeihawaii

BEST CREDIT UNION

WINNER: HAWAI‘IUSA FEDERAL CREDIT UNION Multiple locations, hawaiiusafcu.com, @hawaiiusafcu FINALIST: HAWAI‘I STATE FEDERAL CREDIT UNION Multiple locations, hawaiistatefcu.com, @hawaiistatefcu

WINNER: ALTRES STAFFING 967 Kapi‘olani Blvd., (808) 591-4940, altres.com, @altres_inc

FINALIST: URGENT ISLAND RESTORATION 1130 N. Nimitz Highway, Suite B-180, (808) 465-9999, urgentisland.com, @urgentislandrestoration

BEST FINANCIAL ADVISER

BEST HANDYMAN SERVICE

BEST GAS STATION CONVENIENCE STORE

BEST HARDWARE STORE

WINNER: EDWARD JONES Multiple locations, edwardjones.com, @edwardjones FINALIST: MORGAN STANLEY 733 Bishop St., Suite 2800, (808) 525-6900, morganstanley.com, @morgan.stanley

WINNER: 7-ELEVEN HAWAI‘I Multiple locations, 7elevenhawaii.com, @7elevenhi FINALIST: HELE Multiple locations, helegas.com, @helegas

BEST GENERAL CONTRACTOR

WINNER: ATLAS CONSTRUCTION 2222 Kamehameha Highway, (808) 951-9500, atlasconstruction808. com, @atlasconstructionhawaii

WINNER: KAMA‘ĀINA HANDYMAN (808) 393-1163, kamaainahandyman.com, @kamaainahandyman FINALIST: HANDYMAN SERVICES HAWAI‘I (808) 358-9000, handymanserviceshawaii.com WINNER: CITY MILL Multiple locations, citymill.com, @citymill FINALIST: THE HOME DEPOT Mutiple locations, homedepot.com, @homedepot

BEST HOME PAINTER

WINNER: BERNARDO’S PAINTING 94-716 Lanikūhana Ave., Mililani, (808) 384-0864, bernardospainting.com, @bernardospainting FINALIST: DAVID’S CUSTOM ROOFING AND PAINTING INC. 96-1217 Waihona St., Pearl City, (808) 833-1633, davidsroofinghi.com

��/ for supporting local and voting for us. 48

HONOLULU MAGAZINE

SERVICE S

BEST LUXURY CAR DEALER

WINNER: BMW OF HONOLULU 777 Kapi‘olani Blvd., (808) 597-1225, bmwhawaii.com, @bmwofhonolulu FINALIST: SERVCO LEXUS HONOLULU 650 Kapi‘olani Blvd., (877) 290-7794, servcolexus.com, @servcolexushonolulu

BEST PEST CONTROL COMPANY WINNER: KĪLAUEA PEST CONTROL Multiple locations, kilaueapest.com, @kilaueapestcontrol FINALIST: ALOHA TERMITE & PEST CONTROL 4236 Bougainville Ave., Kapolei, (808) 622-2268, alohatermite.com, @alohatermiteandpestcontrol

BEST PET GROOMERS

WINNER: LIVE.LOVE.PET! 1126 12th Ave., Suite 103, (808) 734-8282, livelovepet.com, @livelovepet FINALIST: DOGGONE GROOMERS 46-028 Kawa St., Kāne‘ohe, (808) 236-7000, doggonegroomershwaii.com, @doggone_groomers808

BEST PLUMBING SERVICE

WINNER: 535 PLUMBING LLC 1130 N. Nimitz Highway, Suite B-180, (808) 300-0535, 535plumbing.com, @535plumbingllc FINALIST: STEVE’S PLUMBING & A/C SERVICE 96-1225 Waihona St., Pearl City, (808) 774-3038, stevesplumbinghawaii.com, @stevesplumbingachawaii

BEST REAL ESTATE FIRM

WINNER: BETTER HOMES AND GARDENS REAL ESTATE ADVANTAGE REALTY Multiple locations, betterhawaii.com, @betterhawaii FINALIST: COLDWELL BANKER REAL ESTATE LLC Multiple locations, coldwellbanker.com, @coldwellbanker

BEST RETIREMENT COMMUNITY

WINNER: ARCADIA FAMILY OF COMPANIES 1434 Punahou St., (808) 941-0941, arcadia.org, @arcadiafamilyofcompanies FINALIST: KĀHALA NUI 4389 Malia St., (808) 218-7001, kahalanui.com

BEST ROOFING COMPANY

WINNER: DAVID’S CUSTOM ROOFING & PAINTING INC. 96-1217 Waihona St., Pearl City, (808) 833-1633, davidsroofinghi.com FINALIST: KAPILI SOLAR ROOFING & PAINTING 94-221 Leonui St., Waipahu, (808) 621-7663, kapiliroof.com, @kapiliroofingandpainting

BEST SENIOR ASSISTED LIVING

WINNER: ARCADIA FAMILY OF COMPANIES 1434 Punahou St., (808) 941-0941, arcadia.org, @arcadiafamilyofcompanies FINALIST: THE PLAZA ASSISTED LIVING Multiple locations, theplazaassistedliving.com, @theplazahawaii

BEST SOLAR COMPANY

WINNER: REVOLUSUN LLC 660 Ala Moana Blvd., #220a, (808) 427-0611, revolusun.com, @revolusun_smarthome FINALIST: SUNSPEAR ENERGY 345 N. Nimitz Highway, Suite A, (808) 219-0394, sunspearenergy.com, @sunspearenergy

WHOLESALE UNLIMITED Hawaii’s Favorite Local Snacks since 1965

BEST STORAGE COMPANY

WINNER: HAWAI‘I SELF STORAGE Multiple locations, hawaiiselfstorage.com, @hawaiiselfstorage FINALIST: PUBLIC STORAGE Multiple locations, publicstorage.com, @publicstorage

BEST TRAVEL AGENCY

WINNER: TRAVELCHIC WORLD travelchicworld.com, @travelchicworld FINALIST: NON-STOP TRAVEL 615 Pi‘ikoi St., Suite #102, (808) 593-0700, nonstophawaii.com, @nonstophawaii

BEST URGENT CARE CLINIC

WINNER: STRAUB MEDICAL CENTER – KĀHALA CLINIC & URGENT CARE 4210 Wai‘alae Ave., Suite 501, (808) 462-5300, hawaiipacifichealth.org FINALIST: QUEEN’S ISLAND URGENT CARE – KĀHALA 1215 Hunakai St., (808) 735-0007, queens.org

BEST VETERINARIAN

FINALIST: KING STREET PET HOSPITAL 2016 S. King St., (808) 951-7777, kingstreetpethospital.com, @kingstreetpethospital

cybersnacks wholesaleunlimitedhi @wholesaleunlimitedhi

Mahalo for voting us

BEST LOCAL SNACK COMPANY! (808) 839-5258 www.WholesaleUnlimitedHI.com

WAIPAHU • AHUA ST. • PEARL CITY • KANEOHE • KEEAUMOKU ST. • KAPOLEI • KAHALA J U LY/A U G U S T 2 0 2 4

BEAUTY & SELF- CARE

BEST

Custom Essential Oil Blends Crafting a unique essential oil blend with Charity Paiva of Mino‘aka Wellness is like creating a custom fragrance, only your new scent is holistic care. Select two to six scents after smelling and ranking a dozen of them. Paiva helps formulate the blend either as an essential oil roll-on or atomized spray. You’ll learn the meaning of each scent you choose and what your soul needs most. —TO

AARON K. YOSHINO

705 S. King St., #206, (808) 429-2701, minoaka-wellness.com, @minoakawellness

EXPLORE THE WORLD

(808) 379-5700 april@travelchicworld.com www.travelchicworld.com IG & TikTok: @TravelChicWorld

HONOLULU MAGAZINE

Mahalo for voting us best travel agency! Travel itineraries seamlessly, designed for your dream destinations, romantic honeymoons, memorable anniversaries, cruises and unforgettable family trips.

BEST

CO U

HAIR REMOVAL (READER PICK)

Having previously gotten my ears pierced at Claire’s, I didn’t know there was a better alternative until discovering Love Me Knots Hawai‘i. The Kaimukī boutique has turned routine ear piercing into a deluxe experience that you can enjoy with your besties. Have a refreshment while browsing the jewelry or wait your turn on comfy lounge chairs. The process itself, involving a hollow needle instead of a piercing gun, enables faster healing, and all earring options are 14-karat gold with flat backings for optimal comfort. Plus, a portion of every purchase goes to animal shelters, another sweet touch from this women-owned business. —AL

Shaving: causes in-grown hairs and doesn’t last. Waxing: sticks to your skin and hurts like a mother. Lasering: cost prohibitive. Sugaring: Now we’re talking. Sugaring is all natural and antibacterial, using only sugar, lemon and water— no harsh chemicals that can damage your skin or the planet. At Sugar Bar, services start at just $10.30 for simple hair removal, with underarms at $25.75 and a Brazilian for $66.95. The company, founded in 2020 by Kimi Arango, recently made it onto Yelp’s list of Top 100 local businesses in the country and is working toward opening a second location, at Market City Shopping Center. Ladies, book an appointment with any of the licensed estheticians, or “sugarists,” who will remove unwanted hair from anywhere below the shoulders, but for guys, only G-rated options are available—no manzilians. —KV

lovemeknotshi.com, @lovemeknotshi

2758 S. King St., #204, (808)-203-3840, sugarbarhawaii.com, @sugarbarhawaii

PLACE TO GET YOUR EARS PIERCED WITH FRIENDS

halo a M

for voting us Best Musubi & Best Gas Station Convenience Store!

Proudly serving 67 locations across Hawai‘ii open 24/7. Locally operated as Your Neighborhood Store since 1989.

J U LY/A U G U S T 2 0 2 4

MARIYA BORISOVA/MOMENT VIA GETTY IMAGES

KNO

T S H A W A I‘I

BEAUTY & SELF- CARE

MCMILLAN DIGITAL ART/PHOTODISC VIA GETTY IMAGES

BEAUTY & SELF- CARE

BEST

Head/Scalp Massage

Now Open Ewa Beach

While researching head massages, I discovered that most businesses offer them as part of a body massage or hair treatment and not as a stand-alone service—except for Kū Day Spa. Located in a house transformed into a wellness oasis, the Mānoa spa offers a therapeutic head massage ($95) that also covers the neck, shoulders and upper back and chest. The massage is designed to address clients’ specific needs, whether it’s stress, headaches or insomnia. Using firm yet comfortable pressure and strokes—techniques used in Japan—my therapist transported me to a blissful state. The service ended with hair oils, tonic spray and a warm towel, leaving me feeling and smelling wonderful. —AL

Swim, Climb, Leap and Splash on 400 Feet of Slides, Obstacles, Towers & Platforms!

Tickets $ fr o m

Reserve at:

*Valid Hawaii/Military ID required. Mondays through Fridays. Plus tax. Subject to change and availability. Restrictions apply.

Call:

WaiKai.Com 808.515.SURF(7873)

EKRAMAR/ISTOCK/GETTY IMAGES VIA GETTY IMAGES

2631 O‘ahu Ave., (808) 721-1489, kudayspa.com, @kudayspa

BEST

NATURAL FACIAL No two facials with esthetician Nikolle Coelho of By Nikolle Aesthetics are the same. From her cozy studio on the second floor of Samsung Plaza, Coelho delivers bespoke holistic skin rejuvenation. First-time clients begin with a consultation to target skin concerns. The 75-minute facial includes natural and organic cleansers and serums as Coelho works to reverse aging, minimize redness and refine texture. You leave with a radiant glow and a relaxed state of mind. —TO 655 Ke‘eaumoku St., Suite 222, (808) 457-8823, bynikolleaesthetics.com, @by_nikolle_aesthetics

HONOLULU MAGAZINE

BEAUTY & SELF- CARE

THE REST OF THE BEST: READER PICKS BEST BARBERSHOP

WINNER: VINTAGE BARBERSHOP HAWAI‘I 1157 Bethel St., (808) 888-2068, vintagebarbershophawaii.com, @vintagebarbershophi FINALIST: ACE OF FADES HAWAI‘I 593 Kamehameha Highway, Unit H, Pearl City, (808) 677-7300, aceoffades.wixsite.com, @aceoffades_hawaii

BEST CHIROPRACTOR

WINNER: GLOBAL HEALTH CHIROPRACTIC 677 Ala Moana Blvd., #914, (808) 521-9686, globalhealthchiropractic.com FINALIST: KE‘ALE CHIROPRACTIC 1314 S. King St., Suite 425b, (808) 763-8387, kealechiropractic.com, @keale_chiropractic

BEST COSMETIC SURGERY

WINNER: DR. BRADFORD W. LEE MD, MSC 1380 Lusitana St., #912, (808) 888-9981, drbradfordlee.com, @drbradfordlee FINALIST: ATHENA CLINIC 1319 Punahou St., #1070, (808) 944-8551, athenaclinic.com, @athenaclinichawaii

BEST DAY SPA

WINNER: EN SIGNATURE BROWS AND BEAUTY STUDIO 627 South St., Unit 3, (808) 797-5757, en-beauty.com, @ensignaturebrowshawaii FINALIST: LOESS SPA 1361 Mo‘okaula St., (808) 841-3311, vagaro.com, @loess_spa_hawaii

BEST EYELASH EXTENSIONS

WINNER: EMBRACE ESTHETICS HAWAI‘I 1521 S. King St., #305, (808) 753-3969, embraceestheticshawaii.com, @embraceestheticshawaii FINALIST: STUDIO GENESIS 1221 Kapi‘olani Blvd., Suite 310, (808) 683-6812, @studio___genesis

BEST HAIR REMOVAL

FINALIST: LAVISH SPA AND NAILS 98-1005 Moanalua Road, #141, ‘Aiea, (808) 486-8885, lavishspaandnailspearlridge.com, @lavishbylmour

BEST HAIR SALON

WINNER: COLOR LOUNGE 3408 Wai‘alae Ave., #102, (808) 772-4177, colorloungehawaii. com, @colorloungehawaii FINALIST: DADA SPA, SALON AND CAFÉ 410 Atkinson Drive, third floor, (808) 888-3232, dadahawaii.com, @dadahawaii

BEST MANI/PEDI

WINNER: LAVISH SPA AND NAILS 98-1005 Moanalua Road, #141, ‘Aiea, (808) 486-8885, lavishspaandnailspearlridge.com, @lavishbylmour FINALIST: NAILOLOGY 45-955 Kamehameha Highway, #403, Kāne‘ohe, (808) 741-4130, hinailology.square.site, @hi_nailology

BEST PLACE FOR A MASSAGE

WINNER: MASSAGE ENVY Multiple locations, massageenvy.com, @massageenvyhi FINALIST: MASSAGED BY JOBE 438 Hobron Lane, #401, (808) 497-5623, jobesmassagehawaii.com, @massagedbyjobe

Mah ahhaal alloo! o! KALIHI PET CENTER “HAWAII’S BEST LOCAL PET SHOP” 1199 DILLINGHAM BLVD SUITE 101 808-841-5234 @KALIHIPETCENTER

Locally owned & Locally operated

J U LY/A U G U S T 2 0 2 4

FP FA M I LY

BEST

Play Space/ Attraction: Indoor After taking over the former Foodland on South Beretania Street last year, Keiki Kingdom transformed the space into a childhood dreamland, and word quickly spread among parents and kids. The hot attractions include a “sandbox” of multicolor beads, a wickedly fast drop-slide, a foam cannon and a cute critter carousel. The technicolor playground has continued to awe and impress by adding new-to-themarket thrills, including a cotton candy vending machine that swirls custom shapes and a life-size human claw machine. Our readers love that staff members take cleaning seriously and are even trained in CPR and first aid. Bottom line: It’s the perfect activity for rainy days and is guaranteed to tucker out even the most high-energy kiddos. —LD 1460 S. Beretania St., (808) 515-3454, keikikingdom.com, @keikikingdom

HONOLULU MAGAZINE

COURTESY: KEIKI KINGDOM

(READER PICK)

BEST

PERFORMING ARTS EDUCATION For decades, Honolulu Theatre for Youth has shared its deep love of drama with keiki through multiple touchpoints: a packed season of public performances and school trips to Tenney Theatre, resources and professional development for teachers, workshops led by top-notch instructors, and a popular summer camp program. What’s particularly noteworthy is how HTY reflects Hawai‘i in its storytelling. “The productions highlight all the wonderful cultures that make up our Islands, and it’s awesome for kids to be able to see themselves reflected on the stage,” says Yunji de Nies, an HTY board member and mom of two. —LD

CO URTES

229 Queen Emma Square, (808) 839-9885, htyweb.org, @honolulutheatreforyouth

Y: H

BEST

SHOP FOR BUDDING READERS Fans of the annual Friends of the Library of Hawai‘i pop-up book sale don’t have to wait to snatch fresh reading material. Since 2021, Village Books & Music at Ward Centre has featured a selection of more than 1,000 used books, CDs, DVDs, video games, comics, and even Pogs, the popular milk cap game from the 1990s. Head to the store’s back corner for a surprisingly large selection of keiki books. Be prepared to hunt the shelves, and with patience, you’ll be rewarded. The fun part is you never know what you’re going to find—a nostalgic children’s classic, a fan-favorite young adult series or the latest graphic novel (think: Dog Man). Be sure to check back often as the inventory is restocked daily. We love the affordable prices, too (most kids books cost $1–$3). And the best part? All sales support Hawai‘i’s 51 public libraries. —LD Ward Centre, 1200 Ala Moana Blvd., (808) 536-4174, friendsofthelibraryofhawaii.org, @hawaiilibraryfriends

COURTESY: FRIENDS OF THE LIBRARY OF HAWAI‘I

FA M I LY

EAT

R E FO R YO U TH

2024 WINNER

Mahalo

to all the families who continue to support and vote for Kama‘aina Kids each and every year. We appreciate your support and are dedicated to providing quality childcare services for the children, families and communities of Hawaii.

J U LY/A U G U S T 2 0 2 4 kamaainakids.com

AARON K. YOSHINO

FA M I LY

BEST

FOOD TRUCK WORTH CHASING AROUND THE ISLAND Mahalo to Moloka‘i Hot Bread for bringing luscious loaves of the Friendly Isle’s legendary Kanemitsu Bakery to O‘ahu. In fact, the truck is most likely coming to a neighborhood near you. Check the calendar posted online to discover its daily whereabouts. The food truck’s steady lineup of customers is proof that we can’t get enough of these pillowy, 1-pound plain boules ($8) made with the same recipe since 1935. You can also order the bread stuffed with fillings, like the fan-favorite strawberry cream cheese, ube cheesecake or cinnamon butter, all $15. Online ordering is also available, with pickup near the airport. DoorDash and Uber Eats will also deliver the bread. —LD molokaihotbread.com, @molokaihotbread

COURTESY: MAGICAL TOUCH HAWAI‘I

Find the Rest of the Bes t in the fall issue of HO Family o NOLULU r HONOL online at ULUFA MILY. COM BEST

PARTY ENTERTAINMENT Party planning can be daunting, so consider leaving it up to Magical Touch Hawai‘i, whose owner, Noomi Pollak Lipetz, a mom of three daughters, knows how to make birthday dreams come true. “I love planning and organizing and have a strong passion towards making people happy and satisfied,” she says. She founded the company in 2014 and now offers various services, including balloon twisting, magic shows, face painting, henna, glitter and airbrush tattoos, caricature drawings and more. Online reviews have commended the company for its quick responses, ability to book last-minute events and overall professionalism. —LD (808) 688-4555, partyentertainment-hawaii.com, @magicaltouchhawaii

HONOLULU MAGAZINE

How artificial intelligence is reshaping education at some of Hawai‘i’s private schools.

2024 PRIVATE SCHOOL GUIDE |

PARTNER MESSAGE

Coming to Terms with

AI in Education

he implications of artificial intelligence (AI) on student learning are multifaceted and transformative across various aspects of education. AI has the potential to significantly enhance student learning through personalized learning environments, efficient administrative processes and innovative learning resources. However, careful consideration of ethical, equity and practical challenges is essential to ensure that AI’s benefits are realized in a fair and responsible manner. As we enter the coming school year, students and teachers will be bringing ChatGPT 4, Pilot, Gemini and many other education-specific AI apps into the classrooms along with their books and laptops. Schools are just beginning to grasp how AI can enhance teaching and learning experiences. But one thing is clear: AI has the potential to effectively address each student’s unique needs, strengths and interests, enabling teachers to create customized learning plans for each student. From interactive tutoring that offers instant feedback to virtual assistants that provide support whenever needed, AI provides a whole new level of engagement in education. This isn’t just another tech trend; AI may be even more transformative to education than the pencil was in its time. Here in Hawai‘i, our private schools are leading the charge in understanding and leveraging these cutting-edge tools to ensure every student is prepared for the world in which they now find themselves. There are currently 112 private PK–12 schools across the islands of Hawai‘i, each offering a unique approach to education. These schools vary in size, educational philosophy, learning programs and culture, providing diverse learning experiences tailored to individual students. HAIS member schools use a wide range of learning and assessment strategies to ensure that every student thrives emotionally and intellectually, catering to the needs of the whole child. This is the 22nd year that the Hawai‘i Association of Independent Schools (HAIS) has partnered with HONOLULU Magazine to provide Hawai‘i families with this informational guide to the independent and parochial schools in our state. My thanks, on behalf of all HAIS member schools, to HONOLULU Magazine for making this valuable resource available at no cost to parents and students across the state. This Private School Guide provides a listing of most of Hawai‘i’s accredited and/or licensed private schools. The HAIS website—hais.us—also offers both a listing of HAIS member private schools, each with its own profile page, and a “Find a School” search function that lets you specify the types and locations of schools you are interested in. Your child is unique, and the school you choose for them should be committed to their individualized and personalized success as a learner. Explore what Hawai‘i’s private schools can provide for your student.

Mahalo,

PHILIP J. BOSSERT, PH.D. EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, HAIS

615 Pi‘ikoi St., PH-5, Honolulu, HI 96814 (808) 973-1540 | Email: info@hais.us | www.hais.us

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PRIVATE

SCHOOL

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contents Ready to Roll PSG 4

Defining the Differences PSG 14

How artificial intelligence is reshaping education at some of Hawai‘i’s private schools.

It’s not just public or private. There are other terms that will tell you more about a school’s focus and style of learning.

by mar i a k anai

Financial Aid FAQs PSG 15

Applying to Private School: A Timeline PSG 10

Thinking about private school? Finding the right fit for your child and getting her or him enrolled can take at least a year. Here is a 12-month timeline to make sure you don’t miss a crucial deadline along the way.

HAIS Helps PSG 12

What you need to know about applying for financial aid, including common myths and mistakes parents make.

What Are You Looking For? PSG 16 You and your child will want a clear idea of exactly what you’re looking for in a private school before you begin the search. Here are some general ideas you might consider.

From open house listings to special programs and search tools that help you learn more about member schools, HAIS provides many resources throughout the year.

How to Ace the Interview PSG 17

The Importance of Licensing and Accreditation PSG 13

A Complete Directory to HAIS Independent Schools PSG 47

When selecting a private school, you’ll want to consider these key factors.

Here are a few tips from educators to keep stress down and your child’s spirits up.

Information on 100 schools, including two colleges.

EDITORIAL DIRECTOR

PHONE: (808) 537-9500 FAX: (808) 537-9500 honolulumagazine.com PUBLISHER

Donna Kodama-Yee donnaky@honolulumagazine.com (808) 534-7501

Diane Seo

EXECUTIVE EDITOR

Katrina Valcourt

CREATIVE DIRECTOR

James Nakamura

SENIOR ART DIRECTOR

Christine Labrador

ON THE COVER

Lindsey Isaias Park (eighth grade) of La Pietra—Hawai‘i School for Girls. Photo: Aaron K. Yoshino.

WRIT TEN, DESIGNED AND PUBLISHED BY:

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How artificial intelligence is reshaping education at some of Hawai‘i’s private schools.

 Prapti Prasai (11th grade) of La Pietra—Hawai‘i School for Girls

p.4

PHOTO: A ARON K. YOSHINO; OPPOSITE PAGE: COURTESY OF LA PIETRA

BY MARIA KANAI

ChatGPT’s public release in November 2022 was a monumental event in the advancement of artificial intelligence. Today, with not just ChatGPT but a wide range of AI tools disrupting the planet, schools are navigating a landscape where prompts can draft essays, generate illustrations and create lesson plans within seconds. And as the technology continues to advance, its abiliLa Pietra—Hawai‘i School for Girls ties and adoption are likely emember that floating paper clip named to expand exponentially. ‘Clippy’ in Microsoft Word?” asks Benjamin Aware of AI’s influence, Roosevelt, dean of academics and faculty at La Pietra. “That was early AI.” while being mindful of the Roosevelt’s point is that AI is nothing new—it’s been around for years. ethics and concerns, HaYet, he knows using AI comes with risks, and as such, La wai‘i’s private schools have Pietra has adopted an ethics policy for it in its student and employee handbook. “We are taking a conscious approach and not started to roll out AI in their a reactive one,” he says. “Students are going to use AI, so we want them to use it as a learning tool, while teachers use it as an aid.” curricula, programs and An English teacher, for instance, could help students underprocesses. Here’s how five stand a complex Russian novel by using ChatGPT to rephrase and interpret a difficult passage at the students’ grade level. And, independent schools are instead of spending time coming up with equations for a math doing it. exercise, a teacher could ask the chatbot to provide 20 calculus

“R

problems. “There’s a term used by theorist John Spencer—it’s called ‘vintage innovation,’” Roosevelt says. “Vintage innovation is very important in Hawai‘i, and the Hōkūle‘a is an example. They used ancient wayfinding to navigate the ocean, but you can also see how social media and the internet was used to promote and share it. In the same way, we can pair hands-on, tried-and-true techniques of learning with AI.” Roosevelt has ambitious plans to expand AI at La Pietra. During the summer, he envisions students visiting local farms and gardens, and enhancing their hands-on agricultural experiences with technology. “What if we brought a drone that could do aerial mapping of the lo‘i and then use AI to figure out which parts of the lo‘i are most productive? AI can really be cutting edge, interesting and meaningful, especially if we can use it for something important like food production,” he says.

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‘Iolani School

ead of School Timothy Cottrell wants ‘Iolani School to lead the way in AI at Hawai‘i private schools. Teachers already are using AI tools like Google’s Gemini chatbot and Magic School AI, designed to assist educators in developing lesson plans and learning materials, Cottrell says. They’re also empowering students to do advanced data analysis, write code, find relevant research articles and brainstorm solutions to large systemic social and global issues via AI. “Others are experimenting with the technology themselves and thinking about how they will respond,” he adds. He can likewise see AI supporting students with learning differences. For example, students with dyslexia can use Otter.ai to transcribe a verbal brainstorming session, then ask a large language model like Gemini to organize the transcription into notes. In 2023, ‘Iolani faculty members Gabriel Yanagihara, Greg Bowman and Alan Suemori were approached by the Hawai‘i Emergency Management Agency to create a children’s book to help local families better prepare for tsunamis. Hiring an  Gabriel Yanagihara teaches at ‘Iolani School’s Sullivan Center for Innovation and Leadership and is a proponent of AI, often being involved in local conferences and workshops for those curious about the tool’s potential.

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illustrator was too costly, so Yanagihara created illustrations via AI. “The process was very precise and deliberate,” Yanagihara says. “It involved the three of us sitting together and going through each page of the story and deciding what image was best needed to bring the plot to life. We came up with multiple options for each page.” Cottrell is now providing free copies of the book to faculty to showcase community outreach and the creative use of AI. More recently, Yanagihara, a teacher at the school’s Sullivan Center for Innovation and Leadership, coordinated an AI storytelling hackathon at a local STEM conference for middle school students and their teachers. During the session, students from across the state created dozens of their own AIillustrated books. “I see AI as becoming as integral a part of education as the calculator or the internet that came before it,” Yanagihara says. “As we embrace and explore its potentials, it will find its appropriate place within the learning journey as other technologies have. … What fills me with pride and hope for the future of education is that our community embraces change and takes on every opportunity to better serve our students as we explore new frontiers. AI is just the current wave we are riding, and we are having a wonderful time on it.”

PHOTOS AND ILLUSTRATIONS: COURTESY OF ‘IOLANI SCHOOL /GABRIEL YANAGIHARA , COURTESY OF ‘IOLANI SCHOOL, A ARON K. YOSHINO; OPPOSITE PAGE: COURTESY OF SEABURY HALL /BRYAN BERKOWITZ

The children’s book Kaiona: The Kia‘i by ‘Iolani faculty members Gabriel Yanagihara, Greg Bowman and Alan Suemori uses vivid imagery created by artificial intelligence.

Middle schoolers at Seabury Hall perform Annie Jr. on stage. All of the students’ backdrop scenes in the performance were generated by AI, allowing them to focus energy and efforts onto other components of the production.

Seabury Hall

hile putting on a fall production of Annie Jr., middle schoolers used AI to create a gorgeous black-and-white backdrop of the New York City skyline in the 1920s and other scenes. That’s just one of the ways the school in Makawao, Maui, has integrated AI. Head of school Maureen Madden says that when she first heard about ChatGPT, the faculty panicked. “We were like, ‘Oh my gosh, we need to block this from our servers,’” Madden recalls. But by the end of the school year, they had convened an AI committee, adopted academic integrity policies for the next school year and identified learning opportunities. “We have red, yellow and green assignment policies toward AI,” Madden says. “Red is a full stop—no AI allowed. Yellow, some AI is allowed. Green means go for it.” Madden is now thrilled to see the creative ways students are using AI. One student, for instance, developed a virtual tour of the school using drone footage, adding a virtual assistant that follows along to answer questions. “This is a great example of how kids are not just passively using AI, but they are experimenting with it,” she says. During a lesson on poet Pablo Neruda, English teacher Christopher Findeisen had his 10th graders use AI to create

How is your school using AI?

odes. What resulted were perfectly structured poems that all rhymed, but were boring. “It’s very robotic, without soul,” he says. But that doesn’t mean they’re useless: The AI-generated poems are then critiqued in class, which helps students understand the differences between good poetry and bad. “ChatGPT almost always fails to acknowledge the unexpected or surprising aspects which humans are good at, and AI is not.” Rather than fearing AI and punishing students for using it, Madden says it’s better to discuss its proper uses with students. “Teachers can go to all the AI professional development sessions that they want, but they don’t mean anything unless you have relationships with students and can talk to them about their work,” he says.

“Many Island Pacific Academy teachers recognize that the use of AI can help them with timeconsuming yet important daily tasks, such as rubric and worksheet creation, and started to use AI to do such tasks. Some are gradually integrating AI into their classrooms, from teaching prompt creation to promote higher level thinking to using AI to teach media and digital literacy concepts, such as checking for misinformation and bias.”

—Erinn Abragar, design thinking teacher, Island Pacific Academy 2025 PRIVATE SCHOOL GUIDE |

From left: Emerson Carroll, Elijah Whitford, Michaela Siaosi and Lukas Thimsen playing the gold rush game

Holy Family Catholic Academy

uring the next school year, Holy Family Catholic Academy will offer professional development sessions for its faculty that address AI. Meanwhile, students will be offered a digital citizenship class focused on how to use technology as a tool to retrieve information properly. “It teaches them to be good citizens on the internet, how to decipher information and think critically,” assistant principal Brian MacMaster says. Overall, the school is taking a cautious approach in adopting AI. While some faculty members—middle school social studies teacher Kristi Sunada among them—are already experimenting with AI, others are more hesitant. Sunada says she used AI to create a board game about the California gold rush, and it was “really educational and fun.” But middle school English language arts teacher Jin-Hee Hause says she once prompted AI to create a quiz, but three of its 15 answers were wrong. “I could never just use it and then give it to the kids right away,” she says. “I do believe it’s in our future

How is your school using AI?

and present, but how do we manage academic integrity? Critical thinking is often lacking nowadays because of how much we can receive with technology. I don’t want [my students] to just have a resource to seek answers from—I want them to be reflective in their writing and thought processes.”

“Lower School (grades K3–6) teachers use AI for assistance with their professional work behind the scenes (i.e., making rubrics for assignments, differentiating instruction, [generating] lesson ideas and wording for comments or emails, etc.). Upper School (grades 7–12) teachers embrace the ethical use of AI as a tool to enhance student learning. [Our] approach seeks to shift students from single-input interactions with AI to leveraging artificial general intelligence language models to empower critical thinking and creativity while maintaining human agency.” — Theresa Hay, executive administrative assistant, Hanalani Schools

Langauge Arts teacher Jin-Hee Hause and student Hipa Neria

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PHOTOS: COURTESY OF HOLY FAMILY CATHOLIC ACADEMY; OPPOSITE PAGE: COURTESY OF MID -PACIFIC

Assistant principal Brian MacMaster with students, from left: Iris Soto, Noah Montibon and Elle Arceneaux

How is your school dealing with the potential issues of AI, such as misuse?

“Teachers are allowed to create the educational environment in their classroom as they need it to be. They are asked to be very specific and open with AI and where it may or may not be appropriate for each assignment and in general use in their class. Students are to be open and honest in their use of AI and to respect the teacher’s class rules.” — James Morris, director of technology, Maryknoll School

Mid-Pacific

hen Mid-Pacific’s faculty and staff first learned about ChatGPT in 2022, they knew their students would be drawn to it, says Jon Pennington, a tech specialist at the school. “We immediately had to come up with a strategy on how we could get ready for this.” By January 2023, the school had conducted professional development workshops to train its faculty, unleashing potential uses of AI at the school. Whether it’s coming up with lesson plans or even interacting online with historic figures, the possibilities, the faculty realized, are endless.

As an example, in an art class, a teacher asked students to share their work, then prompted CoPilot AI to re-create the art in the style of famous artists. The students even received feedback on their work from those artists. “The big thing is now teachers can make activities more interactive, instead of stagnant,” says Mark Hines, director of the Kupu Hou Academy at Mid-Pacific’s Center for Advancing Education. “Now, teachers have this creative creature, this alien, that the students can interact with and explore different ways of questioning.” To teach fellow educators how to create effective AI prompts, Pennington shows them what he calls “programming prose.” And to help ensure academic integrity, the school encourages teachers to identify students’ “writing voices” early in the semester. “When people secretly use it because they are afraid of consequences or judgment, that’s the biggest limiter,” Hines says. “AI is going to continue to evolve. We have kids who are 3 years old in preschool and in 15 years, they’re going to enter a world outside Mid-Pacific that has been transformed by this tool. We need to think progressively about all aspects of teaching, and learning what will be impacted by this.” Last summer, during a student and faculty panel on AI at the school, a teacher asked a student a challenging question: “If AI can do all of this, why do you need me?” The student’s response: “It makes you more important,” the student responded. “If AI gives me feedback on manini stuff like punctuation and grammar, teachers can go deeper and provide more insightful feedback.” Says Hines: “It’s hard for a teacher to give immediate feedback to 25 or 30 students in the classroom. AI can do it relentlessly. It serves as a tireless assistant that cannot displace a teacher’s role in designing instruction.”

 AI-generated artwork hanging inside a school building at Mid-Pacific

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View our Private School Guide online at honolulumagazine.com/PrivateSchoolGuide

T H E

TIM EL IN E

Applying to Private School

Check ssat.or for test g in options g

THINKING ABOUT PRIVATE SCHOOL FOR YOUR CHILDREN? FINDING THE RIGHT FIT AND GETTING THEM ENROLLED CAN TAKE AT LEAST A YEAR. HERE IS A TIMELINE TO MAKE SURE YOU DON’T MISS A CRUCIAL DEADLINE ALONG THE WAY.

Summer

S TA R T YO U R S E A RC H

Most schools advise parents to start at least a year in advance. Summer is the perfect time to come up with a list of potential schools for consideration. Off the top of your head, you might be able to come up with three or four schools, but there are more than 100 private schools in Hawai‘i. To explore them, use the “Find a School” search feature on the Hawai‘i Association of Independent Schools website (hais.us) and our guide on page PSG 47. If you’re really planning ahead, you should know about the windows of opportunity in the private-school application process. Kindergarten is obviously a time when schools accept many new students. Sixth grade is a major entry point and, if you’re interested in high school, ninth grade is the easiest time to enter. However, many independent schools take students throughout the year, at any grade level. This is known as rolling admission. Be sure to check with the schools in which you’re interested to find out their major entry points.

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Fall

MAKE SOME SERIOUS S E LE C T I O N S

In early fall, begin compiling a list of important admissions dates and deadlines, which can vary greatly between schools and even by grade level. Check the schools’ websites and hais.us. To help focus your thinking, you can use our “What Are You Looking For?” guide on page PSG 16. In general, fall is the season for school open houses. The HAIS website is a good starting point for exploring open houses, but be sure to sign up on each school’s website to secure a spot. You’ll get lots of advice from other people, but remember, you are searching for a school that matches your child’s learning style and aligns with your family values. There’s no substitute for firsthand knowledge, so go, and involve your child if possible. In addition to open houses, check whether the schools in which you’re interested allow prospective students, and perhaps families, to tour their campuses and classrooms, or spend a day on campus. Some schools don’t offer this until a student is admitted, but it never hurts to ask.

To connect with a variety of schools in one place, come to the free HAIS Education Fair on Saturday, Sept. 28, at the Hawai‘i Convention Center. With dozens of private schools represented, the fair gives families the opportunity to meet with admissions teams and attend informational sessions on topics including financial aid and testing. For more information, visit hais.us. By late fall, you should have narrowed your list of prospective schools. You may be asking yourself, “how many should I apply to?” The consensus among admissions directors is five so that even if your child doesn’t get into all of them, you’ll still have a variety of choices before you. With your shortlist, you can start looking into specific school admissions and financial aid requirements. Don’t wait too long, especially if you are interested in kindergarten, since application deadlines can be early. For most grades, schools will require: 1) teacher references, 2) testing, usually done by the school itself, and 3) an activity session and observation or individual student interview.

TEST TIME

If your child is applying for fifth grade or above, he or she will probably need to take the Secondary School Admission Test, or SSAT. The test includes sections for math and verbal skills, reading comprehension and a writing sample. Check with specific schools to see if your child needs to take the SSAT in the fall. If your child does not have much experience with tests such as the SSAT, you might want to provide some kind of practice beforehand and review the official study guide available at ssat.org. Some schools accept more than one set of SSAT results; again, check with each school. S U B M IT YO U R A P P LI C AT I O N

Keep an eye on application deadlines. Remember, deadlines range from October to late February. You’ll want to create your own calendar to keep track of what’s due and when. Most admissions officers are happy to answer questions at any time throughout the process, especially if the school you are applying to uses a specific platform for its application.

Winter

INQUIRE ABOUT FINANCIAL AID

It’s easy to get caught up in the application process, but don’t forget to ask about the financial-aid process too. Many Hawai‘i private schools will require you to complete a formal financial aid application administered by a third-party provider. The forms, due dates and tax return requirements may differ among schools, so be sure to verify requirements with each school. Read more commonly asked questions about financial aid on page PSG 15.

For families applying to Catholic schools, another source of aid may be the Augustine Educational Foundation. For more on the group, see augustinefoundation.org. Aid applications will be available in early January online at the foundation’s website and at all Hawai‘i Catholic school offices. Applications must be returned by the middle of March. There are other aid sources for Catholic school students as well. After you submit your admission application forms and perhaps your financial-aid application, be sure to keep track of when the schools require supplemental application information such as school transcripts, teacher reference forms and current year report cards. Some schools will allow additional extracurricular forms from your child’s coaches, volunteer coordinators or other organizational leaders. It is best to check with the schools as to what forms they will accept and in what format (online, paper, etc.). T H E I N T E RV I E W P RO C E S S

Almost all schools will then schedule an interview or activity session with your child. The intended outcome is that the school sees your child’s authentic self. If your child is applying for sixth grade or above, the school may schedule a writing exercise on the same day as the interview. Although schools take the writing samples seriously, there is no need to hire a tutoring agency to prep your child. Read more interview tips from admissions directors on page PSG 17.

Many schools incorporate parent interviews as part of their admissions process, although they may not label them as such. For example, if you are offered a meeting with the admissions director to discuss the admissions process, you may consider treating it as an interview. Similarly, if an admissions officer suggests having a separate conversation while your child completes their interview or writing sample, that’s an interview. Recognizing these opportunities allows you the space to share what your child is like while also asking questions about the school and deciding if it meets the needs of your child and family. Please know that the admissions director is genuinely interested in learning about your child and his or her potential. The person sitting across from you is not a “dean of rejection” but rather someone who is interested in learning more about your child and how he or she would fit into the school’s classrooms.

Spring

T H E WA IT I N G P E R I O D

Once your application process is complete, the best thing to do is sit back and relax. While the process may seem long, each school is evaluating each application thoroughly and needs time to reflect on each component of your child’s application. In the spring, schools will announce their decisions either electronically or by mail. But since there’s no standard notification date among private schools, be sure to check with each one on when to expect a decision.

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T H E

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THE FINAL DECISION

If your child is accepted to more than one school, you may ask the schools if it’s possible to visit the campuses and classrooms, and some schools may also offer shadow days to your child. This is a good time to listen to your child about which schools feel most comfortable. Once your child is admitted, you need to make a decision. Most schools require a deposit, which can range from several hundred dollars to more than a thousand. You may be faced with having to make a decision about a school before hearing back from all schools, since notification dates and acceptance deadlines can vary.

I F YO U ’ R E P L AC E D I N A WA IT P O O L

While being placed in the wait pool may seem disappointing, candidates there are often considered eligible should a space become available in the future. It’s important to provide schools with updated progress reports or report cards while you are in the waiting pool. In some instances, attending summer school or programs on campus may provide the school another opportunity to get to know your child. Once the new school year begins, if your child has not been offered enrollment, you will need to reapply to be considered for admission the following school year.

F I N I S H I N G TO U C H E S

As soon as you’ve settled on a school, don’t forget to check if summer school is required for new students. At some schools, it’s mandatory for all new enrollees; at other schools it’s recommended but only required for certain students; and some schools only encourage it. In any case, it can be a good orientation to a new school.

HAIS Helps FIND A SCHOOL

HAIS search has filters for gender, boarding/ day schools, religious affiliation, grade levels offered and more. hais.us

OPEN HOUSE

Find a calendar of these meet-and-greet opportunities all year. hais.us/open-houses

NEED A TRANSCRIPT?

If your school is no longer open, HAIS may be able to get your transcript. Email krahn@hais.us.

SUMMER PROGRAMS LISTING

Search and view summer offerings at member schools.

NAVIGATING ADMISSIONS

It’s never too late! What happens if you’ve missed the regular deadlines? Maybe you’re a military family and you’ve arrived in the Islands after a school’s application deadline. Is all hope lost? Probably not. While some schools adhere to strict deadlines (especially for kindergarten and financial aid), many schools allow students to apply throughout the year. Some schools have rolling admissions, even accepting enrollment up until school starts, as long as space is available. But what should you do if you’ve missed a hard deadline? Contact the school’s admissions office to explain any extenuating circumstances or inquire about open spaces or the next application window. It can’t hurt to check.

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Watch webinars or sign up for a free newsletter to guide you along the way. hais.us/families

SPECIAL SESSIONS

HAIS invites guest speakers for special talks, free to families from member schools.

The Importance of Licensing and Accreditation

Primary Accreditations

WHEN SELECTING A PRIVATE SCHOOL, YOU’LL WANT TO CONSIDER THESE KEY FACTORS.

AAA Accrediting Association of Seventh-day Adventist Schools, Colleges and Universities. adventistaccreditingassociation. org

They’re more than just stamps of approval—whether or not a school is licensed or accredited can have profound effects on your child’s learning experience. And while they’re both important they’re not the same. Licensing and accreditation together help ensure parents and students that their school provides an excellent educational program and will be safe, secure and sustainable.

What is it?

Entities responsible

PRIVATE SCHOOL LICENSE

ACCREDITATION

All private K-12 schools in Hawai‘i are required to be licensed by the Hawai‘i Council of Private Schools or accredited by an HCPSrecognized accrediting body to ensure that they meet basic health, safety, operational and education program criteria to operate as a private school, according to Act 188 (1995), Act 227 (2019) and Act 61 (2022).

Accreditation is a process of review that certifies schools meet the standards of quality defined by the accrediting body. It is a self-reflective process that involves the entire school community in evaluating how well a school is providing a missiondriven education in a financially sustainable manner.

Hawai‘i Council of Private Schools

Hawai‘i Association of Independent Schools, or other accrediting bodies. See the abbreviations for these primary accreditations in the sidebar at right.

AACS American Association of Christian Schools. National Christian accreditation body. aacs.org ACSI Association of Christian Schools International. Recognized by the National Council for Private School Accreditation. Accredits Christian schools from kindergarten through 12th grade. acsi.org AMS American Montessori Society. amshq.org AWSNA Association of Waldorf Schools of North America. waldorfeducation.org HAIS Hawai‘i Association of Independent Schools. Local umbrella organization that is part of the National Association of Independent Schools. hais.us NAEYC National Association for the Education of Young Children. National association of early childhood educators. Accredits preschool through third grade programs, including child care and before- and after-school programs. naeyc.org

Who?

All Hawai‘i K-12 private schools are legally required to be HCPSlicensed or accredited by an HCPS-recognized accrediting body.

Any school that wishes to strive for excellence and engage in continual growth may pursue accreditation.

Why is it important?

It is a legal requirement that all K-12 private schools must comply with. An organization that is not licensed or compliant with the above acts is breaking the law and thus not recognized as a school. Students who attend such an organization will be considered truant under the law unless they’re registered with the Hawai‘i Department of Education as home-school students.

This peer review process allows schools to hold themselves publicly accountable and assures families and the wider community that their schools meet standards of excellence in education quality, operation, and faculty and staff competence. Many colleges and universities will only accept graduates from schools accredited by specific accrediting bodies.

NLSA National Lutheran School Accreditation. Nationwide accrediting body for Lutheran schools. luthed.org/nlsa

Visit hais.us/licensing to read about licensing and to view the list of licensed/unlicensed/compliant schools, and find our guide on page PSG 47.

Review the list of schools on page PSG 47 or visit hais.us and use the “Find a School” feature.

WCEA Western Catholic Educational Association. Accredits Hawai‘i Catholic schools. wcea.org

How do I check if my child’s school is licensed and/or accredited?

WASC Western Association of Schools and Colleges. One of six regional accrediting associations for schools and colleges. WASC covers the West Coast, Hawai‘i, other Pacific basin areas and East Asia. acswasc.org

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Defining the Differences IT’S NOT JUST PUBLIC OR PRIVATE. THESE CATEGORIES WILL TELL YOU MORE ABOUT A SCHOOL’S FOCUS AND STYLE OF LEARNING.  Private/Independent Schools

 Parochial School

Each is driven by a unique mission, governed by an independent board of trustees and primarily supported through tuition and charitable contributions. Schools define their own mission and curriculum, vary in size and educational approach, and set their own standards for teacher credentials and performance as well as student admissions. There are elementary and secondary schools, day and boarding schools, single-sex and coeducational schools. All are accredited or licensed by state-recognized organizations. Some independent schools are religiously affiliated.

Such schools operate or are supported by a particular church or religious denomination. In broad usage, these schools embrace a religious affiliation and offer both secular and religious instruction in an environment guided by religious traditions and values.

 For-Profit School This is a private school that operates as a business whose purpose is to generate profit by providing an educational program and related services. For-profit schools are either owned by individuals or corporations. Membership in the Hawai‘i Association of Independent Schools is currently limited to nonprofit schools.  Nonprofit School Most private schools in Hawai‘i are nonprofit, which means the distribution of assets to shareholders or members is prohibited. These schools typically engage in various forms of fundraising to balance their operating budgets. Any additional revenue must be reinvested to achieve the school’s goals, rather than distributed as profit. Most nonprofit private schools have been granted 501(c)(3) status from the Internal Revenue Service, which makes them tax-exempt, and permits them to accept tax-deductible contributions.

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 Montessori At these schools, child development, educational philosophy and methods of instruction are grounded in the work of Italian physician and educator Maria Montessori (1870–1952). The Montessori approach centers around harmonious relationships among the child, teacher and environment. Montessori believes in educating the whole child and follows the interests of the child at his or her optimal pace. The teachers, who are usually focused on early education, are often referred to as guides or directresses as their primary role is to guide the child to navigate through the “prepared environment.”  Waldorf This school’s view of human development, curriculum and learning derives from the life work of Austrian philosopher and teacher Rudolf Steiner (1861– 1925). Art is the main medium of instruction and creativity, developmental appropriateness and the joyful aspects of learning. The curriculum integrates subject matter that parallels the psychological development of the child. More than a century old, Waldorf education can be found everywhere, with well over 1,000 schools worldwide.  Reggio Emilia Reggio Emilia is a municipality in Northern Italy known worldwide for

its child-centered and inquiry-based approach to early learning since its first schools opened in 1963. At its core are relationship building and treating children as highly capable and intelligent. Children and educators work to coconstruct the meaning of an experience, in an environment respectful of children and one that provides context for learning. The documentation of learning and professional learning is key to the Reggio Emilia approach.  Competency-Based Learning In this approach to education, the focus is on the student’s demonstration of desired learning outcomes as central to the learning process. It is focused on the student’s progression and observable skills as he or she learns to master a task. Instead of the traditional models that measure success in several fields at the end of a time period, students must learn the task at hand before continuing to the next.  International Baccalaureate The worldwide nonprofit education program focuses on teaching students to think critically and independently, and to inquire with care and logic. There are four IB education programs, all of which are intended to develop students’ intellectual, emotional, personal and social skills. High school students will mostly engage in the IB Diploma Program and the Career-Related Program. More than 5,800 schools in 160 countries use IB curriculums.  Blended Learning This approach combines face-to-face and online learning experiences, which complement each other. Generally, students can control the time, place, path and/or pace of their education.

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Financial Aid FAQs Q. Who should apply for financial aid? A. Everyone who is interested in a school should apply, even if you think you don’t qualify. Not everyone who applies will receive aid; however, most of the schools we spoke with are offering either the same amount of assistance as years past or even more. Make sure to let the school know about any changes to your finances this year that are not reflected in your 2023 tax returns.

Q. Will applying for aid affect my child’s chances of being admitted? A. No. Admission and financial aid decisions are separate and independent, though you should apply for both at the same time.

Q. Is need determined by my salary? A. Not entirely. Many parents ask, “How much do I have to make in order to qualify?” It depends on each family’s situation, including what assets or debt they have, the number of children in a tuition-charging school, as well as household income. Applications are taken on a case-by-case basis. The website finaid.org has a calculator that takes into account various factors to analyze need. Find it at finaid.org/ calculators/saicalculator.

Q. Do I need to apply every year? A. Yes. In general, if there is little or no change in your family’s circumstances, you can expect the award to stay at about the same level. Though the process doesn’t change much

from year to year, some schools use third-party application platforms, so the process may look a little different.

Q. Are there other options for financial aid? A. Checking with the school of your choice is always best—some offer scholarships. The independent agency School and Student Services offers resources and support. There are also various scholarship opportunities available locally and nationally: Kamehameha Schools offers Pauahi Keiki Scholars and Kīpona scholarships for children with Native Hawaiian ancestry attending participating schools. Parents can apply for subsidies through PATCH Hawai‘i’s Preschool Open Doors program, Child Care Connection Hawai‘i, or Child Care Aware of America, which helps military families. Keiki O Ka ‘Āina’s HELP program also serves Native Hawaiian preschool children. Look for other resources from churches, community organizations and private foundations that support education. The Augustine Educational Foundation applications open in January. Some schools offer sibling discounts.

Q. What are the common mistakes parents make? A. Not starting early. Applications are often available in the fall and the process of gathering all the documents can be time-consuming. You’ll need your most recent tax returns before beginning. Turn in everything before the deadline so there is time for the office to ensure all necessary documents are in order, especially if the school needs any additional

information to make a final decision. Reach out to the school for help if you have questions. Q. Do you need to repay financial aid? A. No. It is a grant, not a loan.

Q. If parents are divorced, do both of them still need to provide information? A. Yes. Each biological parent needs to submit a separate form. Stepparents are often also required to do the same.

Applications are often available in the fall and the process of gathering all the documents you need can be timeconsuming. 2025 PRIVATE SCHOOL GUIDE |

Accreditation & Licensing

Is the school licensed or approved by a recognized accrediting body?

College Acceptance Rate

How many of the school’s graduates go on to higher education? What’s the college counseling department like at the school?

Affordability

What’s the tuition? What about other costs? Are there general fees? How much are books, other activity fees, general student costs?

Curriculum

Are there advanced placement or international baccalaureate classes? Does the school have cocurricular, athletic, art, music and drama programs? Is a specific educational program followed, such as the Montessori or Waldorf method? How about year-round, block or modular scheduling?

Before- And AfterSchool Programs

Can younger children be dropped off before, or stay after, regular school hours?

Entry Points

The most common entry points are preschool/kindergarten, sixth and ninth grades; however, each school’s entry points vary. Do many children transfer into the school at a certain grade? Are there ages at which the school does not accept new students?

What Are You Looking For? Is there a variety of extracurricular activities? Sports teams, a drama club, a school newspaper? How about opportunities for community service?

Location

How long will your morning commute be? What is the physical campus like?

Selectivity

How difficult is it to gain admission into the school? If you apply to selective schools, make sure to apply to several.

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You and your child should have a clear idea of exactly what you want in a private school before you begin the search. Here are some general areas you might consider.

Mission And Philosophy

Have you looked over the school’s mission statement and seen how it is incorporated into the school? Why was the school founded and how has its mission changed over the years?

Size

What’s the total school size? Class size? Student-to-teacher ratio? How does the school fit with what you know about your child?

Financial Aid

Is financial aid offered? How many students benefit from financial-aid programs? When must you apply?

Religious Affiliation

Does the school have religious ties? Is it independently governed or overseen by a church organization?

Type

Do you want a coeducational school or an all-boys or all-girls school? Which would work best for your child?

illustrations: getty images

Extracurricular Activities

How to Ace the Interview HERE ARE A FEW TIPS FROM EDUCATORS TO KEEP STRESS DOWN AND YOUR CHILD’S SPIRITS UP.

You may be accustomed to studying for a test but an interview is different—and preparing your child for it can be intimidating for the whole family. And while some schools only speak with parents, others require those one-on-one chats with kids. What are schools really looking for during the interview? We asked admissions directors and administrators for the most common mistakes parents make and their tips for making the best impression. First off, don’t over-prepare. “While it’s fine to practice scenarios or go over questions with your child, our aim is for them to respond authentically, as if they were having a conversation with a favorite aunt or uncle,” says Maile Uohara, Director of Enrollment Management and Admissions at Punahou School. Responses should sound natural, not robotic. There are no right or wrong answers—the school just wants to get to know your child. Interviews with younger children may focus more on social readiness, while middle and high schoolers will likely have more focus on academics. Regardless of age, here are nine tips to help you make the most of this meeting.

Interviewing Tips

sentable but be comfortable, since they may be asked to play or work during the interview, depending on the age of the child. Look up the school’s dress code and wear something similar. 6

Explain to your child what will happen during the interview. Tell your child that they may be going with and talking to another adult. Sometimes younger students will cry when they realize they’re going to be separated from their parents, so the heads-up is vital. Get there early enough “to allow your child some time to relax and familiarize themselves with the location,” Uohara says. And once they head in, don’t hover. Practice with a mock interview. Even the bubbliest kids can

get shy when being asked questions by a stranger. Ask a family friend to help with a few practice sessions. But don’t rehearse or script answers. “Schools appreciate when students give full answers and are excited to be interviewed. It is difficult when students give short answers or vague responses because then the school cannot get an accurate understanding of the prospective student,” says Rebekah Kirby, admissions officer of Asia Pacific International School.

Get to know the school ahead of time. Find out what types of

programs it offers so you can ask specific questions. Parents should also prep their child to talk about what the individual private school focuses on so they can tell the interviewer why they want to attend. Be aware of the school’s mission and philosophy. 4

Pay attention to the details of the process. Read through the in-

formation the school sends you about the interview and assessments or tests thoroughly so you can tell your child what to expect. Make sure to meet any deadlines.

Let your child speak for him- or herself. Some parents

put too much pressure on their kids to answer questions a certain way. The school wants to hear from your keiki and get a better sense of who they really are. Don’t rob them of the opportunity. 8

Have your child get a good night’s sleep. The day of the

interview, be sure your child eats a good breakfast. And if the interview is scheduled during your child’s worst time of day, don’t be afraid to ask to reschedule—as long as you give the school enough notice. 7

On interview day, don’t overdress. Kids should look pre-

Don’t count on every interview being the same. Parents

will often ask other parents who are enrolling their child in the same school, “Hey, what questions did the interviewer ask?” But questions may change, so don’t get too wrapped up in someone else’s experience. Keep in mind that the interview is just one aspect of the admissions process. 9

Prepare for the possibility of rejection. Keep your disappoint-

ment in perspective. You don’t want your anxiety to rub off on your child. Remember that there are limited spots and many different roads to success. A kindergarten rejection is not likely to dictate your child’s future.

2025 PRIVATE SCHOOL GUIDE |

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Choosing the school that’s right for your child is an important decision. There is no such thing as a one-size-fits-all education. Hawai‘i’s independent schools offer numerous opportunities for learning, focused on students’ different styles of learning and parents’ different values. Read about 29 schools in the following pages, from preschool to high school, to find one that will be a great fit for your child.

Index of Advertisers • Assets School PSG 19

• La Pietra—Hawai‘i School for Girls PSG 32

• Damien Memorial School PSG 45

• Le Jardin Academy PSG 33

• Hanahau‘oli School PSG 23

• Mary Star of the Sea School PSG 34

• Hanalani Schools PSG 22

• Maryknoll School PSG 35

• Hawai‘i Baptist Academy PSG 26

• Mid-Pacific Institute PSG 36

• Hawai‘i Conference of Seventh-Day Adventists PSG 24

• Montessori Community School PSG 38

• Hawai‘i Preparatory Academy PSG 25 • Holy Nativity School PSG 27

| 2025 SCHOOLGUIDE GUIDE 2025 PRIVATE PRIVATE SCHOOL

• Sacred Hearts Academy PSG 37

• Hongwanji Mission School PSG 43

• Sacred Hearts Academy Early Learning Center PSG 44

• Honolulu Waldorf School PSG 30

• St. Andrew’s Schools PSG 40

• ‘Iolani School PSG 29

• St. Clement’s School PSG 44

• Island Pacific Academy PSG 28

• St. John Vianney School PSG 45

• Kaimuki Christian School PSG 31

• Saint Louis School PSG 42

• Kamehameha Schools PSG 20-21

• Saint Mark Lutheran School PSG 41

• Kawaiaha‘o Church School PSG 43

• Punahou School PSG 39

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Kindergarten to 12th Grade “I like robotics mainly because I like being around like-minded people who want to do robotics. I appreciate being part of our robotics community, where we lift each other up, collaborate, and solve problems.” Emily Kurashima ‘25 FIRST Tech Challenge Dean’s List Award winner 2024 FIRST World Championship

We Serve: Creative Minds Technology Trailblazers Gifted and Dyslexic Students

“It is critical that children receive early intervention, and are evaluated and diagnosed, so that learning differences can be addressed. Hundreds of families and children will benefit from the Transforming Lives Center.” Becky Zienkiewicz ’03 (Becky and her daughter received assessment services from Assets.)

Students with Learning Differences

Why Assets? Our students say: “Assets is a nurturing environment and our faculty & staff are ‘ohana. We feel accepted and understood.” • Typical 8:1 Student-Teacher Ratio • 2023 State Champions in FIRST Robotics • Mentorship Program • • 95% College Bound - 5% Career Bound • Assets School’s Transforming Lives Center provides psychoeducational and psychological assessments to all K-12 students and families in Hawaii. Learn more at Assets-School.org/about/transforming-lives-center. ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS FOR SUMMER SCHOOL AND SCHOOL YEAR 2024-2025 PRIVATE TOURS AND FINANCIAL AID AVAILABLE!

CALL TODAY! (808) 423-1356

LEARN MORE AND APPLY ONLINE AT ASSETS-SCHOOL.ORG 2025 PRIVATE SCHOOL GUIDE

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Kamehameha Schools

Hānai i ke keiki, ola ka lāhui. Nurture the child and the lāhui thrives. Legacy of a Princess Princess Bernice Pauahi Bishop believed that education was the key to uplifting her people and offering hope for their future. For over 130 years, Kamehameha Schools has remained true to their founder’s vision and continues to cultivate ‘ōiwi leaders strong in Native Hawaiian identity who go on to serve their families and communities in an ever-changing world.

EDUCATIONAL SYSTEM

FINANCIAL AID

COLLEGE

3 Campuses 30 Preschools

74% of tri-campus haumāna receive full or partial aid

96% of the Class of 2023 felt prepared for their plans after graduation

70% of preschool haumāna receive full or partial aid

96% of seniors who applied were accepted into a 4-year college

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Learn or by

NOW ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS KEY DATES FOR ADMISSIONS

Kaua‘

PRESCHOOLS Application window: August 15, 2024 - January 31, 2025

Molok Maui

Hawa • Wes • East

KAMEHAMEHA SCHOOLS CAMPUSES Application window: August 15, 2024 - September 30, 2024 Kamehameha Schools’ policy on admissions is to give preference to children of Hawaiian ancestry to the extent permitted by law.

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ksbe.edu/apply

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Kamehameha Schools Preschools At KS Preschools, kumu guide keiki through a journey of learning rich in Hawaiian culture. Through an environment that is safe and engaging, we nurture the whole child and foster their well-being. We believe every keiki has within them the ability to learn and to lead. Through varied experiences, like exploring their mo‘okū‘auhau, caring for ‘āina and learning about Hawaiian leaders, keiki develop a strong sense of their Hawaiian values and identity. KS Preschools provide our haumāna with a strong foundation and love of learning that prepares them for the next step in their educational journeys.

Kamehameha Schools Kapālama Campus 1887 Makuakāne Street, Honolulu • (808) 842-8211

At Kamehameha Schools Kapālama, students undergo a unique educational journey deeply rooted in Hawaiian identity and Christian values. Beyond rigorous academics and vibrant campus life, KS Kapālama fosters a commitment to ho‘ōla lāhui, contributing to the vitality of our communities. By nurturing cultural identity, KS Kapālama cultivates future leaders who are academically proficient, culturally conscious, and globally engaged, embodying the vision of the E Ola! graduate.

Kamehameha Schools Maui Campus

275 ‘A‘apueo Parkway, Pukalani • (808) 572-3100 At Kamehameha Schools Maui, students gain hands-on skills, tackle realworld challenges, and nurture their ‘ōiwi identity. Exploring everything from farms to foreign countries, haumāna foster a deep connection to their heritage in a multi-disciplinary approach. Guided by core values like pilina and ‘imi na‘auao, students embrace their kuleana and quest for enlightenment. Post-graduation, KS Maui warriors emerge as engaged, prepared, and courageous ‘ōiwi leaders committed to serving their kaiāulu and beyond.

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Kamehameha Schools Hawai‘i Campus 16-716 Volcano Road, Kea‘au • (808) 982-0000

Kamehameha Schools Hawai‘i nurtures students to embrace their ‘Ōiwi Edge — a strong ancestral foundation that fosters personal agency, adaptability, and well-being. This distinctive educational approach equips our learners to pursue their unique purpose and kuleana toward a thriving lāhui. Personalized learning environments empower students to actively shape their educational paths. Students excel in ‘ōiwi scholarship and leadership by developing critical literacies to advocate for just and equitable futures, embodying the visionary values of our founder, Ke Ali‘i Pauahi.

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Admissions and Resource Centers Learn more about Kamehameha Schools campuses, preschools and programs through their Admissions Office or by visiting a Kamehameha Schools Resource Center near you. Kaua‘i (808) 245-8070 Moloka‘i / Lana‘i (808) 553-3673 Maui (808) 242-1891 Hawai‘i • West Hawai‘i: (808) 322-5400 • East Hawai‘i: (808) 982-0851

O‘ahu • Kawaiaha‘o Plaza, Honolulu: (808) 534-8080 • Community Learning Center at Mā‘ili: (808) 843-9650 • Windward Mall: (808) 534-8780

2025 PRIVATE SCHOOL GUIDE |

Kamehameha Schools 24-040-MKT-2024 Private School Guide

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MR. MARK SUGIMOTO Head of School 94-294 ANANIA DR. MILILANI, HI 96789

94-294 Anania Drive, Mililani, HI 96789 We develop leaders with Christian character the Hanalani way — by living out our motto of love God, love others, and challenge yourself! Nestled on six beautiful acres in Mililani, Hanalani Schools has prepared students for success in both college and life since 1952. Hanalani serves approximately 700 students from Preschool through Grade 12 and seeks to enrich the whole child — mentally, physically, emotionally, and spiritually — to develop caring leaders. Our class sizes allow students to try new things, have a multitude of experiences, and discover their passions. Students receive a high-quality education based on a foundation of core knowledge, critical skills, and Christian character while learning in a healthy and safe environment. Real-World Experiences Our innovative approach to education provides students with hands-on projects and interdisciplinary lessons using project-based learning. Through a curriculum based on STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math), learning goes beyond the classroom, allowing students to discover how lessons apply in the real world. Our annual STEAM Week is a week dedicated to providing our students with the opportunity to develop a mindset of being a problem solver and a lifelong learner. The length of time allows students to have a sense of ownership over the projects and their overall learning experiences.

ILH and HHSAA championships for school year 2023-24.

18:1

student to teacher ratio on average across all school levels.

HANALANISCHOOLS

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P (808) 625-0737 F (808) 625-0691

w w w . h a n a l a n i . o r g

Innovative Learning Areas Upper School students learn applied engineering in our Makerspace, a dynamic area where projects come to life by using many different resources from hand tools to laser cutters. Lower School students ideate solutions and collaborate effectively in our Innovation Lab by working with a variety of materials and resources from Kapla Blocks to 3D printers. Our Exploration Station ignites our Early Childhood students’ creativity through imaginative play. A Values-Driven Community Hanalani’s nurturing environment instills lifelong values and teaches students to love God and othoth ers. Our nationally recognized Student Leadership Teams not only plan events for our student body but also coordinate outreach projects for our school ‘ohana to serve the community.

enter entering Grades 3 - 12, and can continue until Grade graduation. Join the Hanalani ‘Ohana We accep accept applicat applications ions for Preschool through throug Grade 12 on a first-c first-come, ome, first-serve first-served basis. The he priority application for applicat or admiss admissions ions is Decemb December 15. Visi Visit our campus at Op Open en House event events in the Fall and Spring to seee how you your child can dre dream, am, learn, and do — the Hanalani way! Or contact the Admissions Department for a personalized tour.

HANALANI.ORG FOR MORE INFORMATION, visit Hanalani.org, call (808) 625-0737 x 456 or email admissions@hanalani.org.

Our Commitment to Families Hanalani is committed to assisting families with affording a private school education for their child. Our Tuition Assistance Program (TAP) provides need-based financial assistance up to 50% of tuition, and our Royal Merit Scholarship for students in Grades 3 - 12 is a merit-based award of up to $2,000 annually. The Thomas J. Vincent Foundation Scholarship, may cover up to 100% of tuition for new students

30+

over 30 electives and over 20 A.P. and honors classes offered.

13x

National Council of Excellence Gold Level Recognition.

700

Pre-K - Grade 12 students enrolled.

See the Hanalani Way!

HANALANIROYALS

90%

of TAP applicants awarded assistance.

HANALANISCHOOLS

$5.2M

college scholarships awarded to class of 2022.

HANALANI.ORG

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Hanahau‘oli classrooms extend into the community with project-based, hands-on learning opportunities, that connect students to the ‘āina and authentic learning experiences.

Friendships thrive in an environment that prioritizes social-emotional wellbeing, collaboration, empathy, and meaningful connections.

Hanahau‘oli School

HOWARD WOLFF/HOWARDWOLFFPHOTOGRAPHY.COM

A Century Plus of Lifelong, Joyful Learning

1922 Makiki Street, Honolulu, HI 96822 (808) 949-6461 | Hanahauoli.org

tep onto Hanahau‘oli’s green and vibrant campus and you will hear, see, and feel joyous work—children collaborating, playing, imagining, building, and wondering. This is because the Junior Kindergarten through 6th grade progressive school recognizes and celebrates childhood as its own distinct and important stage of life and honors the natural way children learn—through play. “At Hanahau‘oli children experience a childhood brimming with play, experiential learning, authentic experiences and intimate relationships at a pace that supports growth through deep reflection and inquiry,” says Head of School Lia Woo, a Hanahau’oli Kilo (observation) is key to sparking wonder about graduate herself. the world and building the skills of scientific inquiry, exploration, and problem-solving. Meaning “joyous work” in Hawaiian, Hanahau‘oli offers families a carefully designed and developmentally appropriate learning environment, grounded in research on child development. Key to this joyous work is deep and caring relationships among children, teachers, staff, and families. “Our close-knit community ensures every child is known and valued for their uniqueness,” says Woo. “As a progressive education school, children take active leadership roles in the running of the school, teaching them from the earliest age the value of interdependence and community.” A multiage classroom structure is intentionally organized to meet children where they are—both cognitively and socially. Designed in a two-year cycle,

07-24 Hanahau‘oli School FP PSG HM.indd 1

Lia Woo the curriculum gives students, and Head of School parents, an opportunity to develop longer lasting relationships with the teachers who support them. Hanahau‘oli’s educational program includes an integrated curriculum with full-time specialist teachers in visual art, Physical World Lab (shop), music, Mandarin, orchestra/band, physical education, library studies and Hawaiian culture. Valued as an essential part of a child’s learning and growth at Hanahau‘oli, the arts offer self-expression while also nurturing an appreciation of the value of quality in children. As a progressive school, Hanahau‘oli responds to a changing world, believing that real-life problems and situations offer the best means for developing useful skills and understandings and becoming productive members of a democratic community. Removing invasive algaes through partnering with Mālama Maunalua, working to restore a water catchment and plant nursery at Mānoa Heritage Center, and supporting Maui wildfire efforts are examples of issues students engage. Hanahau‘oli offers an After School Camp and Enrichment Classes to support families and learners and continue joyous work into the late afternoon. Multiage Hui groups anchor campers and help to build community across the school as they play or join clubs, classes and clinics based on their passions and interests. Hanahau‘oli’s five-week summer program celebrates the wonder of learning. “The Skills We Need” program continues Hanahau‘oli’s commitment to supporting the community, offering tuition-free summer school for students from DOE Title 1 schools. “At Hanahau‘oli we harness our progressive practices and creativity so that students respond to our changing world with purpose, compassion, and leadership,” reflects Woo. “Students embrace responsibility for themselves, for others, and for a better future society.” 2025 PRIVATE SCHOOL GUIDE |

6/10/24 10:26 PM

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Adventist Education Hawaii’s mission is to cultivate students’ physical, mental, social-emotional, and spiritual excellence, preparing them for service in this world and the world to come with ALOHA. Achievement, Leadership, ‘Ohana, Healthy-living, Authentic relationship with God O‘AHU Adventist Malama Elementary School (808) 696-3988 Hawaiian Mission Academy (808) 536-2207 Hawaiian Mission Academy Ka Lama Iki (808) 949-2033 Hawaiian Mission Academy Windward Campus (808) 261-0565 KAUA‘I Kāhili Adventist School (808) 346-8320 Kāhili Adventist Preschool (808) 634-5423 MAUI Hawaiian Mission Academy Maui (808) 877-7813 Maui Adventist Pre-elementary School (808) 793-2645 HAWAI‘I Kohala Adventist School (808) 889-5646 Kona Adventist Christian School (808) 323-2788

www.808AdventistEducation.org

The best starts here. 24

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Mauna Loa School (808) 935-1545 Mauna Loa Preschool (808) 935-1545

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You’re already our neighbor; come join our ‘ohana! At Hawai‘i Preparatory Academy, learning goes beyond the ordinary, thanks to opportunities found only on Hawai‘i Island. HPA combines a rigorous, college-preparatory curriculum with the chance to design and conduct your own realworld research, arts, or community projects. Through capstone classes, 17 Advanced Placement courses, the award-winning Michael and Jeannette Saalfeld Energy Lab, immersive local learning, and other signature programs—HPA supports and empowers students to hone skills, build confidence, and create an impressive and competitive body of work for college and life beyond.

A global village

If you choose Residential Life at HPA, you’ll be in excellent company. Roughly half of our Upper School students live on campus. Some students come from as far away as Nigeria or New York City; others are Hawai‘i residents who prefer the convenience (and fun!) of dormitory life. Reduced rates are available for instate residential students. Residential students live in three historic residence halls and one smaller house-dorm, designed by renowned architect Vladimir Ossipoff. Each are within a short walk of the classroom, athletic, and arts facilities, and are supervised by resident dorm faculty with 24/7 security. During the school day, students attend classes covering everything from Algebra to the Art of Storytelling or Mandarin to Modern-day Voyaging. Then it’s off to athletics or co-curriculars, where Ka Makani take their pick from classics like football or soccer to more unique offerings like equestrian or yoga.

Something for everyone

From star-gazing to surfing and everything in between, amazing opportunities await you outside of class. While academics come first at HPA, outside interests are essential to living a balanced, happy life—and it’s our goal to help students discover and pursue their passions.

Active, ambitious academics

Even if you don’t quite know what your “thing” is yet, we’re ready to help our students expand and explore. We believe a high school education should empower you to do real stuff in the real world. It should prepare you for the self-motivated work that universities expect and the ingenuity that future employers will demand.

Setting you up for a bright future

No matter where your interests lie, we are here to help you find a college, university, or program that fits your learning style and supports your dreams. That could mean a high-profile, urban institution; an engineering institute; a small, rural, liberal arts college; film, art, or design school; a culinary program; or an international gap year adventure—the world is open to you. Recent placements include Stanford University, Yale University, Dartmouth College, Princeton University, Cornell University, University of Southern California, University of California-Berkeley, and many more.

Broaden your horizons in your own backyard

Unlock the Hawai‘i Preparatory Academy difference and discover why HPA is a place to learn like nowhere else!

Contact our Admissions Oﬃce today | admissions@hpa.edu | 808-881-4321 2025 | Waimea, Hawai‘i Island PRIVATE SCHOOL GUIDE |

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Faith, Innovation, and Leadership Hawai‘i Baptist Academy brings faith and learning together so that we may join God in the formation of people and the transformation of the world. Hawai‘i Baptist Academy (HBA) serves more than 1,100 students from preschool through high school in a nurturing Christian environment. The elementary, middle, and high school campuses are conveniently located in beautiful Nu‘uanu Valley, just minutes away from downtown Honolulu. HBA also opened its first satellite preschool, HBA Preschool at GracePoint, located in Mililani Mauka.

HBA Preschool at GracePoint (808) 629-8798 HBA Elementary Campus, JK–6 (808) 536-6830 HBA Middle and High School, 7–12 (808) 595-7585 Email: admissons@hba.net

www.hba.net

1:11

Average teacher to student ratio

activities, with more than 50 clubs to choose from. HBA’s athletic program is competitive and allows opportunities for students to actively participate in over 45+ teams, including basketball, volleyball, tennis, cross country, golf, bowling, track and field and cheerleading, in addition to 13 additional sport opportunities with Pac-Five. Close to 70 percent of middle and high school students compete in interscholastic sports annually, with approximately 40 percent participating in multiple While HBA is known for its strong academics, for nearly sports. With countless and diverse opportunities for 75 years it has brought faith and learning together to students to explore their interests and passions, provide a rich foundation for students to confidently the heart and soul of our school is our teachers, who pursue their passions beyond the classroom. HBA nurture and encourage students in all aspects of their cultivates the values of humility, curiosity, love, and development. commitment with the conviction that these core values will help students navigate through the hills and valleys A NEW EARLY LEARNING COMMUNITY of life. In 2021, HBA welcomed four-year-olds to its elementary campus through a new junior kindergarten program. DISCOVER YOUR GOD-GIVEN TALENTS In 2022, HBA opened its first satellite preschool, HBA HBA is just the right size. It is large enough to offer a Preschool at GracePoint, in Mililani Mauka. wide variety of academic programs, including 20+ advanced placement and elective courses, yet small “Our students are lights in our community and we are enough where students are able to receive personalized excited to expand beyond the greater Honolulu area and into Central O‘ahu,” said Ron Shiira, President of attention from their instructors. HBA. “Along with supporting the need in our community Students thrive in smaller class sizes and develop for strong early education programs, we are helping life-long friendships with their peers. There are also to strengthen the educational pipeline starting with numerous opportunities for students to participate Hawai‘i’s youngest learners.” in the visual and performing arts and extracurricular

100%

Graduates accepted to college

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HMSA Kaimana Awards

Wins by HBA Journalism Program for Best-in-State

25%

of our families receive financial aid

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Small School. Big Experience. Deep Relationships. Holy Nativity School is a small school with big experiences, a big heart, and a big reputation for excellence. Built on deep relationships and personalized attention, the HNS motto is character, heart, and excellence. We are East Honolulu’s neighborhood school and we are rooted in the Episcopal tradition of respect and inclusion.

Being a leader and positive mentor is the HNS Way. Book Buddies is a signature HNS tradition that fosters important bonds between our older and younger students.

Small School. HNS is small by design. We serve students from preschool through grade six, with two teachers in each classroom. One class per grade ensures that every student is given the ability to take on new challenges while continuing to develop strengths. Our beautiful and safe four-acre campus boasts three play fields, a full-size gymnasium, and dedicated art and music rooms — facilities often seen at larger schools. At HNS, every child is truly known and “personal best” is part of our regular practice, not just a clever tagline. Big Experiences. HNS students benefit from a small school setting with big experiences and unique endeavors like class trips, community service projects, and authentic student leadership roles. Weekly specialist classes in music, art, PE, religion and mindfulness, along with various co-curricular activities, allow students to find their role in sports teams, chapel services, speech teams, and more. Developing student affinities, talents, and agency is a fundamental part of the HNS Way. Students gain confidence in trying new things in a school that understands how to balance support and challenge, honest feedback and encouragement.

Upper elementary students discover new horizons as they explore our neighbor islands during annual class trips, integrating learning across the curriculum.

Deep Relationships. Child rearing in the early years is especially sweet when shared with friends who become like family. With frequent and transparent communication between faculty, administration, and families, along with an active ParentTeacher Organization and a robust network of alumni, HNS is a place where children and parents develop lifelong friendships. We reflect with awe about the many children and families whom we have been blessed to serve, and we take pride in knowing that our students graduate well-equipped for the challenges of Hawai‘i’s finest secondary schools.

Connect with us!

@holynativityschool @holynativityschoolhawaii

The Great Pumpkin Festival is East Honolulu’s favorite family-friendly community-oriented fall event. HOLY NATIVITY SCHOOL | 5286 Kalanian‘ole Hwy. Honolulu, Hawai‘i 96821 | www.holynativityschool.org 2025 PRIVATE SCHOOL GUIDE |

Students First,

Values Matter Cultivating values-driven students who go forward with confidence to positively impact our world. Island Pacific Academy inspires students to think critically, solve problems creatively, and adapt to the dynamic demands of an everevolving world. We provide a nurturing, valuesbased education that lays the foundation for future success.

LEARN MORE

IslandPacificAcademy.org West Oʻahu’s choice for an exceptional K-12, independent, college prep education. 28

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‘Iolani School 563 Kamoku Street, Honolulu, HI 96826 (808) 943-2222 | iolani.org COURTESY: ‘IOLANI SCHOOL

n independent college preparatory school for students in grades kindergarten through 12th grade, ‘Iolani School fosters

educational excellence and personal growth in an environment that values collaboration, humility, and respect for all community members.

Academic Excellence A dynamic educational landscape, ‘Iolani School marries academic rigor with personalized learning experiences that are tailored to students in grades K–12. With small class sizes featuring a 16:1 student-teacher ratio, ‘Iolani School fosters individualized attention and support. At the heart of campus lies the cutting-edge Sullivan Center, a hub for innovation and exploration where students unleash their creativity and cultivate their interests through hands-on problem-solving. ‘Iolani’s diverse curriculum is a testament to the school’s commitment to academic excellence and personal growth, offering a wide array of courses ranging from Economics & Entrepreneurship to Video Game Design and Robotics, empowering students to thrive in college and beyond. Social and Emotional Wellness of Students To foster confidence and compassion, ‘Iolani also makes time to address non-academic skills. Small class sizes allow teachers to make great connections with students and form peer-to-peer relationships. 6th and 7th-grade students take advisory courses with a curriculum that focuses on positive peer interactions, study skills, and digital citizenship. “One Team” Culture A global community, ‘Iolani’s “One Team” philosophy was started in

8.3

Million Financial Aid Budget

13,500

Average Financial Aid Award

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Student Body Receiving Aid

the 1930s by football coach Father Kenneth Bray, who instilled in his players that the team is more important than the self. Today, “One Team” is seen in every aspect of school life, from classrooms to athletics. It promotes a culture of caring for others through mutual support, humility, and determination while working to achieve success. Service to Community For over ten years, ‘Iolani School has partnered with schools in Pālolo Valley to bring underserved youth educational opportunities that support and empower them. The KA‘I, or Kūkulu Alaka‘i ‘Iolani (meaning “Creation of Leaders”) programs include summer school for 7th–12th-grade students, keiki classes, tutoring, and postsecondary support. ‘Iolani students take part in the service programs by tutoring many of the students. This speaks to the “One Team” philosophy of supporting the greater community. Additionally, the ‘Āina-Informatics Network engages ‘Iolani School students in real-world problems through modern genomics and bioethics. This work expanded across the Islands into a hui of schools whose students collectively participate in citizen science. New Spaces for Engagement and Exploration ‘Iolani continues its mission to create leading-edge facilities and exceptional learning spaces with the announcement of the Spring 2026 opening of The Arrillaga Student Center. The 40,000-square-foot student center will be a vibrant epicenter where the ‘Iolani ‘ohana comes together to forge deep connections, nurture emotional well-being, and create everlasting memories. Some features include a two-story dining hall, a new 6th-grade community, a roof-top event space, and interactive and recreational spaces for the Residential Life program.

90+

Clubs and Service Organizations

100+

Upper School Athletic Teams

Bands and Orchestras

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Honolulu Waldorf School Kula Ho‘omohala Pua (Early Childhood–High School)

350 Ulua Street, Honolulu, HI 96821 (808) 377-5471 | honoluluwaldorf.org COURTESY: HONOLULU WALDORF SCHOOL

ounded in 1961, Honolulu Waldorf School (Kula Ho‘omohala Pua) offers a nurturing education from preschool (age 2) through high school. Rooted in Waldorf principles, our rich, creative program supports each child’s unique growth, igniting curiosity and a love of lifelong learning. Here, students discover their true selves and develop the skills to follow their dreams, guided by caring faculty in a natural, supportive environment.

 HWS Students learn Hawaiian culture and history; grade 3 students performing hula in our May Day festival.

Meilani Dela Cruz

Interim Head of School

Academics At the Honolulu Waldorf School, learning is an adventure! Academics begin in kindergarten with the developmental readiness curriculum and continue with programs that increasingly challenge students through the grades. We blend Waldorf traditions with innovative methods to inspire creativity, curiosity, and critical thinking. From hands-on projects to interdisciplinary learning, we cultivate a love for knowledge that goes beyond textbooks. Every child is encouraged to explore their unique talents and interests, fostering a lifelong passion for learning. Social Growth Education is about more than just academics; it’s about developing well-rounded individuals who thrive in a diverse world. Our community is built on respect, empathy, and collaboration. Through cooperative activities, outdoor adventures, and service projects, students learn the value of teamwork, leadership, and global citizenship. Here, friendships blossom, confidence soars, and character shines bright. And our on-site social-emotional learning specialist stands ready to support students, faculty, and parents.

 Diverse curriculum and hands-on learning are some of the highlights of a Waldorf education.

Project-Based Learning And Applied Arts We believe hands-on, project-based learning is key to fostering deep understanding and real-world skills. Through engaging projects, students tackle meaningful challenges, apply their knowledge in practical contexts, and develop problem-solving abilities. Whether it’s designing sustainable solutions, creating art installations, learning to sew, knit, or cook, or conducting scientific experiments, our students learn by doing, empowering them to become proactive learners and innovators. Technology In our high-tech-driven age, we understand the importance of preparing students for the future. We also recognize that technological literacy is more than laptops and social media. Our priority is always personto-person human interactions, therefore our approach to the integration of technology is thoughtful and intentional. We work with students and families to support balanced and appropriate computer use to foster a healthy relationship with screens, all the while encouraging tech literacy. We integrate developmentally appropriate technology as a tool to enhance learning, creativity, communication skills, and as support for students with learning differences.

 Grade 5 students bonding during movement class.

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Join Our ‘Ohana Honolulu Waldorf School embraces a diverse student body, united by the values and benefits of Waldorf education. We welcome students from various social, learning, economic, and cultural backgrounds. While the school year starts in August, we accept new students year-round. Tuition assistance is available; please visit our website for details.

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La Pietra

Hawai‘i School for Girls 2933 Poni Moi Rd, Honolulu, HI 96815 (808) 922-2744 | LaPietra.edu

or 60 years, La Pietra – Hawai‘i School for Girls has been educating young women to lead a life of purpose. As an independent, college preparatory school for girls in grades 6-12, students are encouraged to use their voices, explore their passions, and discover their purpose.

PURPOSE-DRIVEN CURRICULUM With over 100 courses, including electives, college preparatory classes, and Advanced Placement courses, La Pietra’s purposedriven curriculum gives students diverse opportunities to reach their academic potential. A La Pietra education takes shape in individualized projects, multidisciplinary experiences, and forward-thinking STEM and place-based learning opportunities. The school’s campus offers a picturesque, ideal location for student success, and partnerships with Hawai‘i Pacific University (HPU) and One Schoolhouse provide expanded educational options. La Pietra graduates are young women known for their confidence, critical thinking, and leadership skills, ready to excel in a rapidly changing world. NURTURING LEADERS & LIFELONG LEARNERS La Pietra’s supportive and connected community is the best place for today’s young woman to fully become herself and to realize her purpose. Students benefit from exceptional teaching faculty, small classes and a nurturing environment that encourages self-exploration, creativity and critical thinking. With a low student-teacher ratio, La Pietra students thrive academically and socially in a diverse community that offers personalized attention. The small-school environment also provides a unique array of leadership opportunities.

COURTESY OF LA PIETRA

ROLLING ADMISSIONS At La Pietra, we believe in accessible education, and that’s why we offer rolling admissions. What is rolling admissions? It’s when schools like ours accept and evaluate admission applications on an ongoing basis instead of having a single fixed deadline and review period. This means you have the flexibility to apply when it’s convenient for you, and we will consider your application promptly, ensuring a smooth and efficient process.

Discover Your Purpose at La Pietra Scan to learn more about our unique all-girls’ learning community, available scholarships, and how prospective families can experience our beautiful campus.

(808) 922-2744 | admissions@lapietra.edu | lapietra.edu | 32

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Mary Star of the Sea School

Early Learning Center 2 y/o–Kindergarten Elementary and Middle School Kindergarten–8th Grade

COURTESY: MARY STAR OF THE SEA SCHOOL

4469 Malia St., Honolulu, HI 96821 Early Learning Center (808) 734-3840 | StaroftheSeaELC.org Elementary and Middle School (808) 734-0208 | StaroftheSea.org

ary Star of the Sea’s journey models a Christ-centered community supporting the development of the whole child from toddler (2 years old) to 8th Grade. For over 75 years, Mary Star of the Sea has remained true to its mission of creating a nurturing and innovative learning environment. By the end of our MSOS journey, students receive an abundance of experiences that prepare them for both high school and lifelong success. Both schools serve under the Diocese of Honolulu and they are accredited by NAEYC and WASC/WCEA. Early Learning Center (ELC)

The ELC provides an indoor and outdoor Montessori learning environment for children as young as 2 years old. It fosters the development and individual growth of every child. Multi-age classrooms reflect society in a microcosm and form a community of learners in a family-like setting. The ELC accepts applications beginning January of the upcoming school year until spots are filled. Transitioning to Kindergarten

Mary Star of the Sea offers a unique opportunity to attend Kindergarten at either the Early Learning Center or the Elementary School campus. Elementary and Middle School

Mary Star of the Sea School’s mission is to foster self-aware teach-

Open Enrollment

K–8

No SSAT

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Financial Aid

able lifelong learners, active Christians, and responsible citizens. K-8 teachers provide a personalized learning environment supported by 1:1 devices and standardized testing. A full-time nurse and a school counselor lead the school’s wellness team and provides group and individual guidance. Our school offers specialized enrichment courses in visual and performing arts, library, foreign languages, and physical education. The school offers year-round open enrollment across all grade levels. After-School Programs

A curated and robust after-school program is offered for Kindergarten to 8th Grade students to meet the diverse interests of students. MSOS is also a member of the Hawaii Catholic School League which gives students in Grades 4–8 the opportunity to compete in volleyball, basketball, and track. Vibrant Community

MSOS is home to a vibrant community that welcomes multi-generational and new families and encourages a positive connection between school and home. The school administration, coupled with the Parent-Teacher Guild, provide an array of opportunities for families to participate in school-wide events. What’s After Middle School?

A strong foundation matters at MSOS! 100% of our graduates are accepted into top private schools.

Extended After-School Care

ESL

English as a Second Language

K–8

100%

Acceptance Top High Schools

Wellness Program

K–8

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Join our vibrant school community where faith, academics, and community unite to nurture students into compassionate leaders ready to make a difference in the world. Embrace a journey where knowledge meets character, and every student is empowered to lead with love and serve with purpose. At Maryknoll School, Hawaii's largest co-ed Pre-K to Grade 12 Catholic private school, each student receives personalized instruction and guidance to develop the knowledge, skills, and character to thrive in a global society. From Grade School to High School, students create their own customized academic and extracurricular pathways that combine classes, clubs, sports, internships, and international experiences. Every Maryknoll graduate practices Noblesse Oblige ("to whom much is given, much is expected") and is inspired to live as a leader with a commitment to serving others and making an impact in the community.

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2445 Ka‘ala Street, Honolulu, HI 96822 (808) 973-5000 | midpac.edu

We Believe In Deeper Learning Deeper Learning at Mid-Pacific instills a lifelong love of learning, fosters critical thinking skills to solve complex problems, and creates meaningful connections to the real world. This approach is vital for educators, parents, and students as it helps develop an in-depth understanding of academic content alongside the skills, habits, and dispositions needed to apply that knowledge. Deeper Learning cultivates brave thinkers and problem solvers—qualities that the world needs today and tomorrow.

Where Potential Soars and Individuality Shines Mid-Pacific is more than just a school; it’s a thriving community home to 1,400 students from Preschool to Grade 12. With the support of over 300 dedicated educators and administrators, our students are empowered to find and follow their passions. At Mid-Pacific, we celebrate individuality and honor the contributions of every member of our caring community. Here, you are supported to achieve your highest aspirations and encouraged to soar to new heights. Go Owls!

70% of students grades 7 – 12 play at least one sport. 36

30+ student clubs offered.

Founded in 1908. Serving Hawai‘i’s keiki for more than 115 years.

Located on 43 acres in Mānoa Valley.

First pre-professional arts school in the Pacific Rim.

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COURTESY: MONTESSORI COMMUNITY SCHOOL

Montessori Community School 1239 Nehoa Street, Honolulu, HI 96822 (808) 522-0244 | MontessoriHawaii.org

Jyo Bridgewater Head of School

or more than 50 years, Montessori Community School has been providing a premier Montessori education on Oahu.

“Our children joyfully engage with the world, building literacy, numeracy, emotional resilience and compassion, in a culture rooted in infinite respect, in an environment where they are known and guided towards independence by skilled and loving teachers. A Montessori education means possibilities,” says Head of School Jyo Bridgewater. Learn at Your Child’s Own Pace Through Personalized Work A child-centered educational approach, the Montessori Method is based on the research into childhood development and scientific observations of Dr. Maria Montessori. It is time-tested, with over 100 years of success in diverse cultures around the world. Classrooms are created with students’ needs in mind, with specially designed learning materials that encourage open-ended exploration of concepts. Montessori Community School’s authentic Montessori program fosters independence and enhances decision-making, critical thinking and time management skills. In every classroom, students progress at their own pace through a relevant curriculum that challenges them to think critically and to work collaboratively, developing skills for life. Our graduates report that they were not only well-prepared for the academic rigors of secondary school, but that they had the confidence to meet the challenges of higher education, careers, and family life. 38

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Cultivate Your Child’s Love of Learning Montessori Community School is an independent school, and the only school in Hawaii that is fully accredited from Preschool through Sixth Grade by both the American Montessori Society and HAIS. Our school offers a positive learning space that encourages curiosity, strives for excellence and promotes respect for individuality and diversity. Through an inviting and engaging learning environment our school embraces a holistic approach, where teachers and the prepared environment nurture all aspects of a child’s development and cultivate well-rounded individuals. A Lifelong Journey of Friendship and Community “My happy memories of childhood are inextricably linked to my experience at Montessori Community School, and I could not be more grateful that this school is still carrying out its mission for my two children,” said a Montessori Community School alumni and current parent. Our school is a place of caring and for making lasting connections. Montessori-credentialed teachers act as guides, allowing for personalized attention and support. Another parent of two students shared, “Montessori Community School has supported our children and family in so many ways, from the amazing teachers who understand and support our children’s different learning styles, to the beautiful community of parents, faculty, and students who embraced us from the very start of our time at the school.” Montessori Community School is a thriving community and we look forward to serving future generations of students and families. For more information about Montessori Community School, please visit our website at montessorihawaii.org to schedule a school tour.

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Punahou School 1601 Punahou Street, Honolulu, HI 96822, 808.944.5714, Punahou.edu

unahou School has educated students to become the next generation of leaders and innovators for nearly 183 years. Through world-class academic and cocurricular programs from kindergarten through grade 12, we encourage students to cultivate their interests and talents, aim for their highest potential and become positive forces in the world. Preparing Students for a Changing World Punahou’s primary mission is to cultivate students into educated, capable and caring people who have the knowledge and skills to succeed. Punahou also prepares students to navigate a future shaped by emerging technologies and global change, while continuing its longstanding excellence in core subjects such as math, English, social studies and science. Our students develop the skills, knowledge, vision and mindset to flourish as the next generation of leaders poised to change the world.

Opportunities Abound Supported by exceptional faculty and a robust curriculum emphasizing deep knowledge in core subjects, Punahou students are able to extend their learning beyond the walls of their classrooms. Extracurricular offerings complement academic pursuits, providing avenues for students to explore diverse interests. Our five oncampus Centers provide spaces and opportunities to connect with experienced faculty for additional specialized learning in Global Education, Public Service, ‘Ike Hawai‘i, Outdoor Education, and Design Technology and Engineering. Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Punahou is committed to creating a diverse educational community rooted in equity and inclusion as fundamental human rights. We seek ways to create an environment in which the identities and cultural backgrounds of our families, students and employees are valued and respected by the entire Punahou community. Financial Aid Students are admitted to Punahou based on their potential to thrive, not their family’s ability to pay. Punahou offers a robust financial aid program to support families who could not otherwise afford a Punahou education. Innovative Learning Environments In recent years, Punahou has rebuilt or renovated a significant part of its campus to offer cutting-edge, reimagined learning environments. These thoughtfully planned, technologically advanced and highly sustainable facilities offer indoor and outdoor spaces that allow students to develop skills necessary to thrive in the 21st century.

140+ teams across 21 sports

22 students in the Class of 2024 are National Merit Semifinalists

23% average percentage of students receiving financial aid

The Mary Kawena Pukui Learning Commons, named after the visionary Hawaiian educator, scholar, and former Punahou teacher Mary Kawena Pukui, will open its doors in 2026. When this K – 12 facility opens, it will include learning spaces and classrooms; design, technology and engineering labs; emerging technology studios equipped with virtual reality and AI tools; culinary and sustainability studios; and large lānai spaces for students to collaborate and socialize.

76 acres for your child to learn, discover and explore their interest and passions

5 Educational Centers Supporting Student Passions

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St. Andrew’s Schools

The Priory Grades K–12 (for girls) | The Prep Grades K–6 (for boys) | The Preschool Ages 2–5 (co-ed)

Downtown Campus 224 Queen Emma Square, Honolulu, HI 96813 Nu‘uanu Campus 3019 Pali Highway, Honolulu, HI 96817 (808) 532-2427 | standrewsschools.org COURTESY: ST. ANDREW’S SCHOOLS

t. Andrew’s Schools has developed courageous, compassionate leaders for more than 155 years. Queen Emma Kaleleonālani recognized the need for young women in Hawai‘i to have access to a high-quality education and founded St. Andrew’s Priory School for Girls in 1867. Since then, St. Andrew’s has grown to include The Prep and Queen Emma Preschool. Student-Centered Learning Leads to Academic Success Across our campuses, the focus is on personalized, experiential learning to draw out each student’s unique gifts and talents. Throughout their journey with us, we prepare students to achieve their educational goals in a culture of care, love, respect, and service.



The Priory | All-girls, Grades K-12

Taking Action to Make an Impact As they grow with us, we inspire students to investigate the world, recognize multiple perspectives, and communicate their ideas— with the goal of taking action to make a difference. To support this impact-based learning, our curriculum integrates science, technology, engineering, art, and math to challenge students to solve problems in creative and innovative ways. Cultivating Leaders Through Authentic Work Our Global Leadership curriculum, Priory in the City program, and exceptional college counseling position graduates for success because they have direct experience in leadership and community problem-solving.



Queen Emma Preschool | Coed, Ages 2-5

The Priory is footsteps from vibrant downtown businesses and the seat of government. Before graduating, Priory students engage in authentic workplace experiences through internships. They build community relationships, learn from mentors, explore careers, and become better prepared for the challenges and opportunities that await them in college and throughout life.

Kūlia I Ka Nu‘u (Strive for the Highest) Developing a strong sense of self gives all our students the confidence to take on leadership roles in school, preparing them to be changemakers in their communities. St. Andrew’s nurtures the growth of each child—whether at The Priory, The Prep, or Queen Emma Preschool—by setting high expectations in an environment filled with lovingkindness. Our students can be themselves while becoming their best, in a place where they know they belong.

Three schools. Two campuses. One mission. Learn more and let your journey begin. 

The Prep | All-Boys, Grades K-6

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PHOTOS BY: SAINT MARK LUTHERAN SCHOOL

Saint Mark Lutheran School 45-725 Kamehameha Highway, Kāne‘ohe, HI 96744 (808) 247-5589 | smls-hawaii.org

earning is a joy on Saint Mark Lutheran School’s safe, quiet and surprisingly large tree-lined 2.5-acre campus. The PK3 to 8 school has created a caring “‘ohana” since its founding in 1956 as part of Saint Mark Lutheran Church’s educational ministry. “Saint Mark has a strong community feel, where every child is known and nurtured to integrate faith with life,” says Head of School Dr. David Gaudi. “Many second and third generation families return for our strong academics and safe, loving environment.”

Strong Commitment to Dr. David Gaudi Financial Assistance Head of School Saint Mark understands the challenging effects of sustained inflationary increases and has expanded financial aid as part of its ongoing efforts to help families, while increasing accessibility and promoting diversity among its student body. Approximately half of its students receive some form of financial assistance from Saint Mark as well as Kamehameha Schools.

Early Learning Center Serving PK3 & PK4 Saint Mark is excited to have recently opened the Early Learning Center, a new two-story facility to expand its outstanding educational offerings to include high-quality early childhood programs to serve 60 preschoolers. The beautiful facility offers secure 1,000-sq ft classrooms, collaborative learning space, a tech learning center and an outdoor play area.

Students Accepted into High School of Choice With nearly 70 years of academic excellence, the co-ed school has consistently prepared its graduates to be life-long learners, well-equipped with 21st century skills to transition successfully to the high school of their choice. Recent graduates were accepted into a variety of Hawai‘i’s private schools, including Damien, Hawaii Baptist Academy, ‘Iolani, Kamehameha, Le Jardin, Maryknoll, Mid-Pacific, Punahou, Sacred Hearts and Saint Louis.

Diverse Offerings Diverse offerings in art, band, choir/music, ‘ukulele, technolSafe to Make Mistakes ogy and competitive sports teams enhance a rich and rigorous “Saint Mark strives to provide a challenging and disciplined learnacademic curriculum taught by fantastic faculty who make the ing environment that is fun, exciting and full of God’s love. By spiritual, physical, social and emotional growth of their students sharing and living God’s loving and saving grace, we hope to crea priority in developing the “whole child.” ate a caring atmosphere where our students “Our teachers are the heart and soul of are challenged to do their best, yet feel safe our efforts to ensure that our graduates learn to take risks with their learning and curiosity to think critically to make informed decisions; without fear of failure. We want our students to practice the importance of respecting to be able to make mistakes knowing that God oneself, others and property; and to utilize loves them, we love them, and that failure is their talents to glorify God and serve others,” not fatal,” says Dr. Gaudi. says Dr. Gaudi.

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PHOTOS BY: SAINT LOUIS SCHOOL

Saint Louis School 3142 Wai‘alae Avenue, Honolulu, HI 96816 (808) 739-4832 | SaintLouisHawaii.org

ince 1846, Saint Louis School has dedicated itself to building tomorrow’s leaders and renews this commitment with an emphasis on the Six A’s of Excellence:

ACADEMICS A robust advanced placement program and college preparatory curriculum produces award-winning students in robotics, mathematics and other disciplines.

ALAKA‘I (Leadership) The only school in America offering both Civil Air Patrol and junior ROTC programs, Saint Louis continues to graduate a legendary roll of proven leaders including former Gov. John Burns; businessman Walter Dods; and Army Lt. Gen. Joseph Peterson.

athletics including Washington Commanders QB Marcus Mariota and Tua Tagovailoa.

ALOHA Rooted in Marianist values that encourage giving back to those in need, Saint Louis students model themselves after such notable alumni as Clarence T.C. Ching and Walter Dods, just to name a few.

ARTS From an award-winning hula hālau to major productions performed each year in Saint Louis School’s Mamiya Theatre, the arts play an important role at Saint Louis, which features both Hawai‘i’s oldest high school band and a brand new string orchestra.

ATHLETICS

AKUA (God) Spirituality plays a central role at Hawai‘i’s only K-12 Catholic school for young men, including spiritual retreats, Mass, music and prayer. Notable servant leaders include Bishop Stephen Alencastre and Saint Damien of Moloka‘i.

Another state championship and national football ranking are just the tip of an athletics program rich in history here in Hawai‘i. A handful of graduates move on to enjoy success in both college and professional

GRADES K TO 12

BROTHERHOOD FOR LIFE 42

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Dr. Glenn Medeiros President

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Hongwanji Mission School 1728 Pali Highway, Honolulu, HI 96813 (808) 532-0522 | HongwanjiMissionSchool.org

ongwanji Mission School (HMS) is a small, co-ed school committed to nurturing intellect and cultivating compassion through academic rigor and Buddhist values. Students from preschool through eighth grade are challenged to think critically and innovate creatively through research-based, hands-on and technologyenhanced lessons led by caring staff. In addition to language arts, math, social studies and science, the well-rounded curriculum includes art, drama, guidance, Japanese language, library, music, physiDavid Randall cal education and Head of School

technology. Middle school offers a wide variety of interest-based choice electives: taiko, photography/videography, electronics, international games, hiking and much more. Conveniently located in Nu‘uanu, campus facilities include a student library, technology lab, creative arts center, gym, swimming pool, tennis court, fitness center and maker space. Working parents may depend on morning care (7:00 a.m.), a diverse after-school program (to 5:00 p.m.), and extended care (to 5:30 p.m.). For more information and a campus tour, please visit the HMS website or call (808) 532-0522. niche.com/k12/hongwanji-missionschool-honolulu-hi/ @HongwanjiMissionSchool HongwanjiMissionSchool @HMSDolphinsNow

COURTESY: HONGWANJI MISSION SCHOOL

Kawaiaha‘o Church School

Serving keiki from 2 years old through 6th grade

872 Mission Lane, Honolulu HI 96813 (808) 585-0622 | kawaiahaoschool.org

komo mai, here at Kawaiaha‘o Church School you are immediately welcomed as ‘Ohana. The school is often described as a haven in the heart of downtown Honolulu, a place where keiki can learn and grow in a safe, nurturing and loving environment. In addition to the indoor classroom areas, Kawaiaha‘o Church School provides various outdoor learning spaces for students to thrive. We are equipped with 3 playgrounds, a full gymnasium and offer extracurricular programs during and after school hours. Our curriculum is rooted in Christianity, Montessori-inspired, and incorporates

Hawaiian language, culture, and values. Our school is WASC accredited and is recognized in its strong focus on S.T.E.A.M. curriculum and aims to develop each child with a connection to ke Akua (God), aloha kekahi i kekahi (love for one another) and aloha ‘āina (caring for God’s creation). Graduates are often described as adaptable, confident, and have a passion for learning. We welcome keiki as young as 2 years old through kindergarten. Please visit our website at kawaiahaoschool.org for a full virtual tour (in English, Japanese, and ‘Ōlelo Hawai‘i) of our campus and programs that are offered.

PHOTOS: COURTESY OF KAWAIAHA‘O CHURCH SCHOOL

2025 PRIVATE SCHOOL GUIDE |

SPECIAL PROMOTIONAL SECTION

St. Clement’s School 1515 Wilder Avenue, Honolulu, HI 96822 (808) 949-2082 | StClem.com

rom the moment children are greeted by name as they enter St. Clement’s School until day’s end, they are immersed in activity—planned and spontaneous—full of laughter, stories, art, music, games, projects, friends and fun. In this world of discovery and wonder, attentive, experienced teachers and assistant teachers degreed in early education create experiences that stimulate young eager minds and bodies to build confident, creative learners. In this accessible and safe learning environment, students are guided through rigorous, ageappropriate curriculum to build skills and encourage strong relationships. Threeyear-olds examine textures and natural elements: soft, hard, squishy, sand, ice, paint and soil; four-year-olds research

| 2025 PRIVATE SCHOOL GUIDE

and explore mythical characters and cave dwellers; kindergarteners discover the value of the coins and paper money of banking in a community. Engaged by curiosity, armed with language, numbers, science and loving teachers, children are excited by learning. Rooted in the Episcopal faith, St. Clement’s School welcomes children from all backgrounds and embraces religious and ethnic diversity. Respect P H O T O B Y : S T. C L E M E N T ’ S S C H O O L and love for others are integarten programs. The school is accredited by gral to its mission. Located in NAEYC and is a member of HAIS and NAES. Makiki, St. Clement’s School For information and/or application, please accepts 3-and 4-year-old chilcontact us. dren for preschool and kinder-

SPECIAL PROMOTIONAL SECTION

St. John Vianney School 940 Keolu Drive, Kailua, HI 96734 (808) 261-4651 | sjvkailua.org Living the Gospel. Inspiring hearts, minds & lives. E ho‘oulu i ka na‘au, ka mana‘o, a me ke ola.

t. John Vianney School, located in the heart of Kailua, will celebrate 60 years as a leading Windward school in August 2025. Students from the Early Learning Center for both 3- and 4-year-olds through grade eight engage in rigorous academics. Accredited by WASC/WCEA, the school offers small classes, affordable tuition and year-round open enrollment. The school provides a safe and nurturing environment, fosters spiritual and moral development and promotes academic excellence. Located near the Marine Corps Base Hawai‘i, the school offers military dependents a caring environment with a

challenging curriculum as their parents serve our country. Embedded in the values of service, compassion and respect, the school is developing the next generation of Hawai‘i’s leaders through its strong academic program, Catholic faith education and integration of technology into the discovery and learning process. The entire staff prides itself in partnering with parents, as their child’s primary educators, to foster the whole child, thereby fulfilling their potential as contributing members of society. Students learn the value of service and respect for all God’s creations,

while developing into caring citizens and critical thinkers as we prepare them for the finest high schools. Tuition Assistance and Scholarship Programs are offered for parents who may need financial aid to enroll their child. Welcome Grants are also offered to Catholic students who wish to transfer to St. John Vianney from a public/ non-Catholic school. Please call the school office for more information. “A Catholic education will enrich all aspects of your child’s life and that of your family,” shares Principal Caryn DeMello. COURTESY: HONGWANJI MISSION SCHOOL

Cultivating Culture, Cultivating& Culture, Community Character Community & Character

Damien Memorial School is a fully accredited Damien School isfor a fully accredited collegeMemorial preparatory school young men and college preparatory for 12. young men and women in grades 6school through women in grades 6 through 12.

Y APPLL YY! ATPOPDA TODAY!

Call Today! (808) 841-0195 or email admissions@damien.edu

DAMIEN.EDU Call 1401 Houghtailing Street, Honolulu, 96817 Today! (808) 841-0195 or email admissions@damien.edu DAMIEN.EDU 1401 Houghtailing Street, Honolulu, 96817

2025 PRIVATE SCHOOL GUIDE |

2024 Private School Education Fair FREE

THE ANNUAL HAWAI’I ASSOCIATION OF INDEPENDENT SCHOOLS (HAIS) EDUCATION FAIR offers a line-up of private schools, guest speakers and keiki activities, and provides families a unique opportunity to have all their admissions questions answered in a central location.

O PE N TO TH E PU BL IC

Oahu Fair

Saturday, September 28, 2024 10:00 am–2:00 pm Hawai‘i Convention Center Room 316ABC Breakout Sessions All About the Secondary School Admission Test (SSAT) and The Character Skills Snapshot Understanding Financial Aid Kindergarten and Elementary School Admissions

Highlights  Free and open to the public

 Inquire about entry requirements

 Interactive booths with 40+ private schools

 Informative breakout sessions

 Meet preschool through high school admissions teams

 Keiki activities and hands-on learning experiences

To begin your private school search and learn more about admissions at our nearly 100 member schools, please visit our website: www.hais.us.

Hawai‘i Association of Independent Schools 615 Piikoi St., PH-5 Honolulu, HI 96814 t: 808-973-1540 | f: 808-973-1545 | e: info@hais.us Social icon

Rounded square Only use blue and/or white. For more details check out our Brand Guidelines.

Listing of Private Schools With the large number and variety of private schools in Hawai‘i, you may find yourself asking, just where do I start? Look no further than the following list. The 100 schools in our chart are organized alphabetically by island, along with each school’s contact information and other important data.

he list was provided by the Hawai‘i Association of Independent Schools (HAIS). All data was prepared by the individual schools. A little explanation as to some of the categories: The tuition figure for each school is yearly tuition. It’s sometimes given as a range. Usually the high end of the range is for older children and the low end for younger grades, but this varies. Preschools often charge by the month. In that case, we’ve noted it. Contact individual schools for more details. The “% Students Receiving Tuition Assistance” column tells you the percentage of students at a school receiving some type of financial aid. This will help you judge your chances for financial assistance.

The “Accreditation” column shows which organizations have accredited a school. Please see the list of acronyms on PSG 13. We’ve included a column for “Licensing Status” to reflect Act 227, which legally requires all private schools to be licensed or accredited. A “Licensed” school has fulfilled the Hawai‘i Council of Private Schools licensing requirements; met basic health, safety and education program criteria; and been approved by the HCPS Board. “Compliant” schools are not licensed by HCPS but have been accredited by a recognized accrediting body. Students attending any private school that isn’t licensed or compliant are considered truant.

H A P PY S EA RC H I NG

2025 PRIVATE SCHOOL GUIDE |

Grades/ Gender

Religious Affiliation, if any Phone Number Email Address

No. Students No. Full-Time Teachers No. Full-Time Administrators (2023–2024)

Tuition % Students Receiving Tuition Assistance (2024–2025)

Accreditation

Licensing Status

ADVENTIST MALAMA ELEMENTARY SCHOOL 86-072 Farrington Highway | Wai‘anae 96792 adventistmalama.org

K–8 COED

Seventh-Day Adventist (808) 696-3988 office@adventistmalama.org

45 3 N/A

$6,440 35%

NADCA

Compliant

ASIA PACIFIC INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL—HAWAI‘I CAMPUS* 54-230 Kamehameha Highway | Hau‘ula 96717 apishawaii.org

K–12 COED

Christian (808) 670-1900 admissions@apishawaii.org

110 16 5

$19,700– $24,300 40%

HAIS; WASC

Licensed

ASSETS SCHOOL 1 ‘Ohana Nui Way | Honolulu 96818 assets-school.org

K–12 COED

Independent (808) 423-1356 info@assets-school.org

287 59 7

$28,515– $29,813 34%

HAIS; WASC

Licensed

CALVARY CHAPEL CHRISTIAN SCHOOL 98-1016 Komo Mai Drive | ‘Aiea 96701 cccsofhonolulu.org

K–12 COED

Christian (808) 524-0846 office@cccsofhonolulu.org

212 15 1

$7,145– $8,455

ACSI; WASC

Licensed

CENTRAL UNION CHURCH PRESCHOOL & KINDERGARTEN 1660 S. Beretania St. | Honolulu 96826 centralunionpreschool.org

Toddler– JK COED

Congregational (808) 946-4025 admissions@centralunionpreschool.org

174 25 5

$17,783– $20,521 17%

NAEYC

N/A

CHAMINADE UNIVERSITY MONTESSORI LABORATORY SCHOOL 3140 Wai‘alae Ave. | Honolulu 96816 chaminade.edu/montessori-lab-school

PK–K COED

(808) 735-4875 lramls@chaminade.edu

36 4 1

$1,220/mo.

AMS; NAEYC

Compliant

THE CHILDREN’S HOUSE 1840 Komo Mai Drive | Pearl City 96782 childrenshousehawaii.org

PK–5 COED

Nondenominational (808) 455-4131 admissions@childrenshousehawaii.org

245 25 5

$13,670– $15,100 20%

HAIS; WASC

Licensed

CHRISTIAN ACADEMY 3400 Moanalua Road | Honolulu 96819 capatriots.org

PK–12 COED

Assembly of God (808) 836-0233 admissions@capatriots.org

244 22 12

$10,337– $11,860 15%

ACSI; WASC

Licensed

CROSS ACADEMY 98-1098 Moanalua Road | ‘Aiea 96701 oursaviorlutheranschool.org

PK–8 COED

Lutheran (808) 488-0000 office@osls-hawaii.org

110 10 3

$10,460 30%

NLSA; WASC

Licensed

DAMIEN MEMORIAL SCHOOL 1401 Houghtailing St. | Honolulu 96817 damien.edu

6–12 COED

Roman Catholic (808) 841-0195 limos@damien.edu

524 39 12

$13,945– $18,614 65%

HAIS; WASC; WCEA

Licensed

FRIENDSHIP CHRISTIAN SCHOOLS 91-1207 Renton Road | ‘Ewa Beach 96706 fcshawaii.org

PK–12 COED

Baptist (808) 681-8838 friendship@fcshawaii.org

298 26 3

$5,745 1%

HALE KEIKI SCHOOL 153 Bougainville Drive | Honolulu 96818 halekeikischool.org

PK–6 COED

(808) 423-1727 admissions@nhks.org

193 15 4

$9,400– $12,720 5%

HAIS; WASC

Licensed

HANAHAU‘OLI SCHOOL 1922 Makiki St. | Honolulu 96822 hanahauoli.org

PK–6 COED

Independent (808) 949-6461 abaclig@hanahauoli.org

221 25 9

$27,910 21%

HAIS; WASC

Licensed

HANALANI SCHOOLS 94-294 Anania Drive | Mililani 96789 hanalani.org

PK–12 COED

Nondenominational (808) 625-0737 admissions@hanalani.org

714 51 12

$15,195– $17,940 30%

WASC

Licensed

HAWAI‘I BAPTIST ACADEMY 1848 Nu‘uanu Ave. | Honolulu 96817 hba.net

PK–12 COED

Baptist (808) 595-5000 admissions@hba.net

1,111 93 16

$15,660– $21,120 22%

HAIS; ACSI; WASC

Licensed

HAWAIIAN MISSION ACADEMY KA LAMA IKI 1415 Makiki St. | Honolulu 96814 kalamaiki.org

K–8 COED

Seventh-Day Adventist (808) 949-2033 secretary@kalamaiki.org

90 5 1

$10,750 60%

NADCA

Compliant

SCHOOL Street Address | City, Zip Website

O‘ahu

| 2025 PRIVATE SCHOOL GUIDE

Licensed

* offers boarding

Grades/ Gender

Religious Affiliation, if any Phone Number Email Address

No. Students No. Full-Time Teachers No. Full-Time Administrators (2023–2024)

Tuition % Students Receiving Tuition Assistance (2024–2025)

Accreditation

Licensing Status

HAWAIIAN MISSION ACADEMY— 9 TO 12 CAMPUS* 1438 Pensacola St. | Honolulu 96822 hawaiianmissionacademy.org

9–12 COED

Seventh-Day Adventist (808) 536-2207 principal@hawaiianmissionacademy.org

85 4 3

$26,158 35%

WASC

Compliant

HAWAIIAN MISSION ACADEMY— WINDWARD CAMPUS 160 Mo‘okua St. | Kailua 96734 hmawindward.org

K–8 COED

Seventh-Day Adventist (808) 261-0565 office@hmawindward.org

49 3 1

$9,250 28%

NADCA

Compliant

HO‘ĀLA SCHOOL 1067-A California Ave. | Wahiawā 96786 hoalaschool.org

K–8 COED

Independent (808) 621-1898 info@hoalaschool.org

26 3 2

$11,500 80%

HAIS; WASC

Licensed

HOLY FAMILY CATHOLIC ACADEMY 830 Main St. | Honolulu 96818 hfcahawaii.org

PK–8 COED

Roman Catholic (808) 423-9611 info@hfcahawaii.org

344 23 3

$9,300– $10,100 34%

WASC; WCEA

Compliant

HOLY NATIVITY SCHOOL 5286 Kalaniana‘ole Highway | Honolulu 96821 holynativityschool.org

Early Childhood –6 COED

Episcopal (808) 373-3232 admissions@holynativityschool.org

133 21 3

$18,609– $19,173 18%

HAIS; WASC

Licensed

HONGWANJI MISSION SCHOOL 1728 Pali Highway | Honolulu 96813 hongwanjimissionschool.com

PK–8 COED

Buddhist (808) 532-0522 connectwithhms@hongwanji.us

405 41 4

$13,200 10%

HAIS; WASC

Licensed

HONOLULU WALDORF SCHOOL 350 Ulua St. | Honolulu 96821 honoluluwaldorf.org

PK–HS COED

Nondenominational (808) 377-5471 info@honoluluwaldorf.org

173 28 4

$18,930– $22,705 30%

HAIS; AWSNA; WASC

Licensed

HUAKAILANI SCHOOL FOR GIRLS 45-035 Kāne‘ohe Bay Drive | Kāne‘ohe 96744 huakailani.org

K–8 GIRLS

Independent (808) 263-2020 huakailanischool@gmail.com

28 4 1

$14,000 20%

‘IOLANI SCHOOL* 563 Kamoku St. | Honolulu 96826 iolani.org

K–12 COED

Independent (808) 949-5355 admission@iolani.org

2,201 214 40

$29,375 25%

HAIS; WASC

Licensed

ISLAND PACIFIC ACADEMY 909 Haumea St. | Kapolei 96707 islandpacificacademy.org

K–12 COED

Nondenominational (808) 674-3563 admission@ipahawaii.org

579 60 22

$18,910– $19,810 26%

HAIS; WASC

Licensed

KAIMUKĪ CHRISTIAN SCHOOL 1117 Koko Head Ave. | Honolulu 96816 kaimukichristianschool.org

P2–12 COED

Christian (808) 732-1781 kcs@kaimukichristian.org

320 25 3

$15,700– $18,400 12%

ACSI; WASC

Licensed

KAMEHAMEHA SCHOOLS KAPĀLAMA* 1887 Makuakāne St. | Honolulu 96817 ksbe.edu

K–12 COED

Protestant (808) 842-8211 admissions@ksbe.edu

3,192 278 150

$5,458– $6,714 67%

HAIS; WASC

Licensed

KAWAIAHA‘O CHURCH SCHOOL 872 Mission Lane | Honolulu 96813 kawaiahaoschool.org

Early Childhood –K COED

Protestant (808) 585-0622 admissions@kawaiahaoschool.org

89 17 3

$1,175– $1,475/mo. 19%

HAIS; WASC

Licensed

KO‘OLAU BAPTIST ACADEMY 45-633 Keneke St. | Kāne‘ohe 96744 academy.koolaubc.org

K–12 COED

Baptist (808) 233-2900 kba@koolaubc.org

208 14 1

$5,620

AACS

Licensed

LA PIETRA— HAWAI‘I SCHOOL FOR GIRLS 2933 Poni Moi Road | Honolulu 96815 lapietra.edu

6–12 GIRLS

Independent (808) 922-2744 info@lapietra.edu

86 15 7

$23,570 62%

HAIS; WASC

Licensed

LANAKILA BAPTIST SCHOOLS 94-1250 Waipahu St. | Waipahu 96797 lbswarriors.com

K3–12 COED

Baptist (808) 677-0731 gordene.leverett@lbswarriors.org

145 15 4

$9,000– $9,700 4%

SCHOOL Street Address | City, Zip Website

Licensed

* offers boarding 2025 PRIVATE SCHOOL GUIDE |

Grades/ Gender

Religious Affiliation, if any Phone Number Email Address

No. Students No. Full-Time Teachers No. Full-Time Administrators (2023–2024)

Tuition % Students Receiving Tuition Assistance (2024–2025)

Accreditation

Licensing Status

LE JARDIN ACADEMY 917 Kalaniana‘ole Highway | Kailua 96734 lejardinacademy.org

PK–12 COED

Nondenominational (808) 261-0707 jennifer.souza@lejardinacademy.org

871 94 16

$18,270– $26,950 21%

HAIS; WASC; IB

Licensed

LIFE LEGACY ACADEMY 550 Queen St. | Honolulu 96813 lifelegacyacademy.com

PK–2 COED

Christian (808) 347-4631

42 N/A N/A

$11,000– $12,000

Licensed

MĀ‘ILI BIBLE SCHOOL 87-138 Gilipake St. | Wai‘anae 96792 mailibible.org

K–12 COED

Nondenominational (808) 696-3038 info@mailibiblechurch.org

61 5 2

$4,300– $5,200

Licensed

MARY, STAR OF THE SEA EARLY LEARNING CENTER 4470 Ali‘ikoa St., #100 | Honolulu 96821 staroftheseaelc.org

Early Childhood –K COED

Roman Catholic (808) 734-3840 info@staroftheseaelc.org

162 23 3

$12,500 1%

NAEYC; WCEA

Compliant

MARY, STAR OF THE SEA SCHOOL 4469 Malia St. | Honolulu 96821 starofthesea.org

K–8 COED

Roman Catholic (808) 734-0208 cmuneno@starofthesea.org

244 27 4

$12,850 36%

WASC; WCEA

Compliant

MARYKNOLL SCHOOL 1526 Alexander St. | Honolulu 96822 maryknollschool.org

PK–12 COED

Roman Catholic (808) 952-7330 admission@maryknollschool.org

845 72 14

$16,650– $20,650 45%

HAIS; WASC; WCEA

Licensed

MID-PACIFIC INSTITUTE 2445 Ka‘ala St. | Honolulu 96822 midpac.edu

PK–12 COED

Christian (808) 973-5000 admissions@midpac.edu

1,401 116 19

$30,880 29%

HAIS; WASC

Licensed

MONTESSORI COMMUNITY SCHOOL 1239 Nehoa St. | Honolulu 96822 montessorihawaii.org

2-year-olds and PK–6 COED

Independent (808) 522-0244 info@montessorihawaii.org

190 13 8

$14,595– $17,595 10%

HAIS; AMS

Licensed

NEW HOPE CHRISTIAN SCHOOL 94-050 Farrington Highway, Suite C-2 Waipahu 96797 nhcshi.org

Early Childhood –8 COED

Christian (808) 678-3776 info@nhcshi.org

179 18 1

$795/mo. 20%

HAIS; ACSI; WASC

Licensed

OUR LADY OF GOOD COUNSEL SCHOOL 1530 Ho‘olana St. | Pearl City 96782 olgchawaii.org

Early Childhood–8 COED

Roman Catholic (808) 455-4533 c.luarca@olgchawaii.org

202 19 4

$8,880– $10,500 40%

WASC; WCEA

Compliant

PACIFIC BUDDHIST ACADEMY 1754 Lusitana St. | Honolulu 96813 pacificbuddhistacademy.org

9–12 COED

Buddhist (808) 532-2649 blanche.yarnell@pbahi.org

73 7 5

$19,750 35%

HAIS; WASC

Licensed

PEARL HARBOR CHRISTIAN ACADEMY 94-1044 Waipi‘o Uka St. | Waipahu 96797 pearlharborchristianacademy.com

PK–12 COED

Christian (808) 678-3997 phcaoffice@hawaii.rr.com

208 13 2

$7,700– $9,995 15%

ACSI; WASC

Licensed

PUNAHOU SCHOOL 1601 Punahou St. | Honolulu 96822 punahou.edu

K–12 COED

Nondenominational (808) 944-5711 admissions@punahou.edu

3,763 361 20

$31,680 23%

HAIS; WASC

Licensed

ROSARY PRESCHOOL 94-1249 Lumikula St. | Waipahu 96797 rosarypreschool.com

PK COED

Roman Catholic (808) 676-1452 rosarypreschoolhawaii@gmail.com

42 3 2

$900/mo. 15%

NAEYC

N/A

SACRED HEARTS ACADEMY 3253 Wai‘alae Ave. | Honolulu 96816 sacredhearts.org

PK–12 GIRLS

Roman Catholic (808) 734-5058 admissions@sacredhearts.org

525 57 17

$15,980– $20,575 55%

HAIS; WASC; WCEA

Licensed

Episcopal (808) 532-2427 admissions@standrewsschools.org

369 48 N/A

$16,845– $22,250 46%

HAIS; WASC

Licensed

SCHOOL Street Address | City, Zip Website

O‘ahu (continued)

ST. ANDREW’S SCHOOLS THE PRIORY, THE PREP, QUEEN EMMA PRESCHOOL 224 Queen Emma Square | Honolulu 96813 and 3019 Pali Highway | Honolulu 96817 standrewsschools.org

| 2025 PRIVATE SCHOOL GUIDE

K–12 GIRLS K–6 BOYS PK COED

Grades/ Gender

Religious Affiliation, if any Phone Number Email Address

No. Students No. Full-Time Teachers No. Full-Time Administrators (2023–2024)

Tuition % Students Receiving Tuition Assistance (2024–2025)

Accreditation

Licensing Status

ST. ANTHONY SCHOOL KAILUA 148 Makawao St. | Kailua 96734 saskailua.org

PK–8 COED

Roman Catholic (808) 261-3331 info@saskailua.org

322 33 3

$9,312–9,743 10%

WASC; WCEA

Compliant

ST. CLEMENT’S SCHOOL 1515 Wilder Ave. | Honolulu 96822 stclem.com

PK–K COED

Episcopal (808) 949-2082 admin@stclem.com

117 15 3

$13,900 15%

NAEYC

Licensed

ST. ELIZABETH SCHOOL 99-310 Moanalua Road | ‘Aiea 96701 steliz-hi.org

PK–8 COED

Roman Catholic (808) 488-5322 sra@steliz-hi.org

140 13 1

$8,300 30%

WASC; WCEA

Compliant

ST. JOHN VIANNEY SCHOOL 940 Keolu Drive | Kailua 96734 sjvkailua.org

PK–8 COED

Roman Catholic (808) 261-4651 sjvadmin@sjvkailua.org

206 17 3

$8,230– $8,530 38%

WASC; WCEA

Compliant

ST. JOSEPH PARISH SCHOOL 94-651 Farrington Highway | Waipahu 96797 stjosephwaipahu.org

PK–8 COED

Roman Catholic (808) 677-4475 sjs@stjosephwaipahu.org

336 18 1

$8,900– $9,300 30%

WASC; WCEA

Compliant

SAINT LOUIS SCHOOL 3142 Wai‘alae Ave. | Honolulu 96816 saintlouishawaii.org

K–12 BOYS

Roman Catholic (808) 739-4832 admissions@saintlouishawaii.org

801 61 14

$15,400– $19,050 68%

HAIS; WASC; WCEA

Licensed

SAINT MARK LUTHERAN SCHOOL 45-725 Kamehameha Highway | Kāne‘ohe 96744 smls-hawaii.org

PK3–8 COED

Lutheran (808) 247-5589 kdelacruz@smls-hawaii.org

240 15 1

$10,550– $11,190 46%

HAIS; NLSA; WASC

Licensed

ST. MICHAEL SCHOOL 67-340 Haona St. | Waialua 96791 stmichaelschoolhi.com

PK–12 COED

Roman Catholic (808) 637-7772 info@stmichaelschoolhi.com

103 9 3

$8,500– $10,350 54%

WASC; WCEA

Compliant

ST. PATRICK SCHOOL 3320 Harding Ave. | Honolulu 96816 saintpatrickhawaii.org

PK–9 COED

Roman Catholic (808) 734-8979 adecosta@saintpatrickhawaii.org

224 27 3

$8,250– $11,500 42%

WASC; WCEA

Compliant

ST. PHILOMENA EARLY LEARNING CENTER 3300 Ala Laulani St. | Honolulu 96818 stphilomenaearlylearningcenter.com

Early Childhood –PK COED

Roman Catholic (808) 833-8080 director@spelc-hawaii.com

124 7 3

$14,925– $15,679 40%

NAEYC

N/A

SAINT THERESA SCHOOL 712 N. School St. | Honolulu 96817 stshi.org

PK–8 COED

Roman Catholic (808) 536-4703 cgora@rcchawaii.org

209 20 4

$8,345– $9,773 19%

WASC; WCEA

Compliant

TRINITY CHRISTIAN SCHOOL 875 Auloa Road | Kailua 96734 tcskailua.net

PK–12 COED

Presbyterian (808) 262-8501 nmorikawa@tcskailua.net

217 20 5

$12,960– $16,720 40%

HAIS; WASC

Licensed

TRINITY LUTHERAN SCHOOL 1611 California Ave. | Wahiawā 96786 tls-hawaii.org

PK–8 COED

Lutheran (808) 621-6033 office@tls-hawaii.org

165 15 4

$7,300– $10,100 50%

HAIS; NLSA; WASC

Licensed

VARIETY SCHOOL OF HAWAI‘I 710 Palekaua St. | Honolulu 96816 varietyschool.org

K–12 COED

Independent (808) 732-2835 info@varietyschool.org

48 12 5

$43,322 90%

HAIS; WASC

Licensed

WAOLANI JUDD NAZARENE SCHOOL 408 N. Judd St. | Honolulu 96817 wjns.org

PK–8 COED

Church of the Nazarene (808) 531-5252 office@wjns.org

200 21 4

$8,750– $14,000 5%

HAIS, WASC

Licensed

WINDWARD NAZARENE ACADEMY 45-232 Pua‘ae Road | Kāne‘ohe 96744 wnahawaii.com

PK3–8 COED

Church of the Nazarene (808) 235-8787 school@windwardnazarene.com

139 15 6

$11,923– $12,585

WASC

Licensed

SCHOOL Street Address | City, Zip Website

2025 PRIVATE SCHOOL GUIDE |

Grades/ Gender

Religious Affiliation, if any Phone Number Email Address

No. Students No. Full-Time Teachers No. Full-Time Administrators (2023–2024)

Tuition % Students Receiving Tuition Assistance (2024–2025)

Accreditation

Licensing Status

CARDEN ACADEMY OF MAUI 55 Maka‘ena Place | Pukalani 96768 cardenmaui.org

PK–8 COED

Independent (808) 573-6651 office@cardenmaui.org

185 14 7

$13,446– $16,979 25%

HAIS; WASC

Licensed

DORIS TODD CHRISTIAN ACADEMY 519 Baldwin Ave. | Pā‘ia 96779 doristoddchristian.org

PK–12 COED

Nondenominational (808) 579-9237 office@doristoddchristian.org

231 17 3

$9,248– $9,796 30%

ACSI; WASC

Licensed

EMMANUEL LUTHERAN SCHOOL 520 One St. | Kahului 96732 elcs-maui.org

PK–8 COED

Lutheran (808) 873-6334 principal@elcs-maui.org

218 14 1

$8,625– $9,625 52%

WASC

Licensed

HALEAKALĀ WALDORF SCHOOL 4160 Lower Kula Road | Kula 96790 waldorfmaui.org

PK–12 COED

Independent (808) 878-2511 info@waldorfmaui.org

258 25 9

$5,200– $20,900 33%

HAIS; AWSNA; WASC

Licensed

HAWAIIAN MISSION ACADEMY MAUI 261 S. Pu‘unēnē Ave. | Kahului 96732 hmamaui.org

K–8 COED

Seventh-Day Adventist (808) 877-7813 principal@hmamaui.org

39 2 1

$8,100 80%

NADCA

Compliant

HORIZONS ACADEMY OF MAUI INC. 2680 Wai Wai Place | Kīhei 96753 horizonsacademy.org

K–continuing ed COED

Independent (808) 575-2954 info@horizonsacademy.org

1 2 1

$4,200/mo.

Licensed

KA‘AHUMANU HOU CHRISTIAN SCHOOL 777 Maui Veterans Highway | Kahului 96732 khcsandnoahsarkmaui.com

PK–12 COED

Assembly of God (808) 871-2477 office@khcsmaui.com

135 12 3

$5,000– $9,540 25%

Licensed

KAMEHAMEHA SCHOOLS MAUI 270 ‘A‘apueo Parkway | Pukalani 96768 ksbe.edu/education/maui

K–12 COED

Protestant (808) 572-3100 ksrc@ksbe.edu

1,115 125 26

$5,458– $6,714 100%

KE KULA ‘O PI‘ILANI 875 ‘Īao Valley Road | Wailuku 96793 kekulaopiilani.com

K–5 COED

Independent (808) 214-5006 admin@kekulaopiilani.com

63 6 1

$8,000 80%

MAUI PREPARATORY ACADEMY 4910 Honoapi‘ilani Highway | Lahaina 96761 mauiprep.org

PK–12 COED

Independent (808) 665-9966 admissions@mauiprep.org

377 31 14

$8,856– $24,840 50%

HAIS; WASC

Licensed

MONTESSORI SCHOOL OF MAUI 2933 Baldwin Ave. | Makawao 96768 momi.org

Early Childhood –8 COED

Independent (808) 573-0374 jamiea@momi.org

240 25 7

$16,545– $19,752 32%

HAIS; WASC

Licensed

ROOTS SCHOOL OF MAUI 740 Ha‘ikū Road | Ha‘ikū 96708 rootsmaui.org

PK–6 COED

Independent (808) 250-7988 office@rootsmaui.org

72 7 3

$10,850 34%

HAIS; WASC

Licensed

SACRED HEARTS SCHOOL 550 Office Road | Lahaina 96761 shsmaui.org

K–12 COED

Roman Catholic (808) 661-4720 yrichard@shsmaui.org

165 18 4

$8,705– $9,100 40%

WASC; WCEA

Compliant

SEABURY HALL 480 Olinda Road | Makawao 96768 seaburyhall.org

5–12 COED

Episcopal (808) 572-7235 admissions@seaburyhall.org

518 65 15

$25,410 31%

HAIS; WASC

ST. ANTHONY SCHOOL 1618 Lower Main St. | Wailuku 96793 sasmaui.org

PK–12 COED

Roman Catholic (808) 244-4190 mainoffice@sasmaui.org

560 18 5

$9,800– $17,305 63%

HAIS; NAEYC; WASC; WCEA

SCHOOL Street Address | City, Zip Website

Maui

| 2025 PRIVATE SCHOOL GUIDE

HAIS; WASC

Licensed

Pending

Grades/ Gender

Religious Affiliation, if any Phone Number Email Address

No. Students No. Full-Time Teachers No. Full-Time Administrators (2023–2024)

Tuition % Students Receiving Tuition Assistance (2024–2025)

Accreditation

Licensing Status

CHRISTIAN LIBERTY ACADEMY 16-675 Milo St. | Kea‘au 96749 clahawaii.org

PK–12 COED

Christian (808) 966-8445 admin@clahawaii.org

245 24 1

$6,500– $8,500 40%

HAIS; WASC

Licensed

HAILI CHRISTIAN SCHOOL 190 Ululani St. | Hilo 96720 hailischool.net

PK–12 COED

Congregational (808) 961-5026 hcskim@hailischool.com

151 13 1

$4,800– $8,500 15%

HAWAI‘I PREPARATORY ACADEMY* 65-1692 Kohala Mountain Road Kamuela 96743 hpa.edu

K–12 plus PG COED

Independent (808) 885-7321 admissions@hpa.edu

581 76 23

$26,400– $34,100 37%

HAIS; WASC

Licensed

KAMEHAMEHA SCHOOLS HAWAI‘I 16-716 Volcano Road | Kea‘au 96749 ksbe.edu/hawaii

K–12 COED

Protestant (808) 982-0000 admissions@ksbe.edu

1,177 130 26

$5,458– $6,714 81%

HAIS; WASC

Licensed

KOHALA ADVENTIST SCHOOL 55-3361 Akoni Pule Highway | Hāwī 96719 koaschool.org

K–8 COED

Seventh-Day Adventist (808) 889-5646 principal@kohalaadventistschool.org

17 1 N/A

$5,250 50%

NADCA

Compliant

KONA ADVENTIST CHRISTIAN SCHOOL 82-1013 Kinue Road | Captain Cook 96704 kacs.adventistfaith.org

K–8 COED

Seventh-Day Adventist (808) 323-2788 principal@konaacs.org

16 1 N/A

$5,000 80%

NADCA

Compliant

KULEANA EDUCATION ACADEMY 74-4820 Mamālahoa Highway | Hōlualoa 96725 kuleanaeducation.com

K–8 COED

Nondenominational (808) 374-4902 office@kuleanaeducation.com

84 7 1

$9,400

WASC

Licensed

MAKUA LANI CHRISTIAN ACADEMY 74-4966 Kealaka‘a St. | Kailua-Kona 96740 makualani.com

PK–12 COED

Christian (808) 329-4898 makualani@gmail.com

332 28 7

$9,923– $12,128 40%

ACSI; WASC

Compliant

MĀLAMALAMA WALDORF SCHOOL 15-1834 Maku‘u Drive | Kea‘au 96749 hawaiiwaldorf.org

PK–8 COED

Independent (808) 982-7701 info@hawaiiwaldorf.org

130 8 1

$927/mo.– $10,041 38%

HAIS; AWSNA; WASC

Licensed

MAUNA LOA SCHOOL 172 Kapi‘olani St. | Hilo 96720 maunaloaschool.org

K–8 COED

Seventh-Day Adventist (808) 935-1545 office@maunaloaschool.org

50 3 N/A

$5,050 26%

NADCA

Compliant

PARKER SCHOOL 65-1224 Lindsey Road | Kamuela 96743 parkerschoolhawaii.org

K–12 COED

Independent (808) 885-7933 admissions@parkerschoolhawaii.org

337 32 19

$19,000– $21,200 43%

HAIS; WASC

Licensed

ST. JOSEPH SCHOOL 1000 Ululani St. | Hilo 96720 sjshilo.com

PK–12 COED

Roman Catholic (808) 935-4936 mkipapa@sjshilo.org

194 23 2

$7,950– $10,457 65%

HAIS; WASC; WCEA

Licensed

WAIMEA COUNTRY SCHOOL 65-1237 Kawaihae Road | Kamuela 96743 waimeacountryschool.org

K–6 COED

Independent (808) 885-0067 office@waimeacountryschool.org

48 4 2

$13,400 31%

HAIS; WASC

Licensed

SCHOOL Street Address | City, Zip Website

Hawai‘i Island

Licensed

* offers boarding

2025 PRIVATE SCHOOL GUIDE |

Grades/ Gender

Religious Affiliation, if any Phone Number Email Address

No. Students No. Full-Time Teachers No. Full-Time Administrators (2023–2024)

Tuition % Students Receiving Tuition Assistance (2024–2025)

A KULA HAWAI‘I 4551 Kapuna Road | Kīlauea 96754 akulahawaii.org

7–8 COED

Nondenominational (808) 828-0077 akulahawaii@gmail.com

9 1 N/A

$5,500 35%

ISLAND SCHOOL 3-1875 Kaumuali‘i Highway | Līhu‘e 96766 ischool.org

PK–12 COED

Independent (808) 246-0233 info@ischool.org

494 41 11

$12,670– $19,880 51%

HAIS; NAEYC; WASC

Licensed

KAHILI ADVENTIST SCHOOL 4-1132 Kūhiō Highway | Kapa‘a 96746 kahiliadventistschool.org

K–8 COED

Seventh-Day Adventist (808) 346-8320 principal@kahiliadventistschool.org

26 2 N/A

$6,600 30%

NADCA; WASC

Compliant

KAUA‘I CHRISTIAN ACADEMY 4000 Kīlauea Road | Kīlauea 96754 kcaschool.org

PK3–12 COED

Christian (808) 828-0047 dplunkett@kcaschool.net

241 18 3

$7,700– $9,800 30%

AACS

Licensed

ST. THERESA SCHOOL 8311 Kaumuali‘i Highway | Kekaha 96752 sttheresakauai.com

PK–8 COED

Roman Catholic (808) 337-1351 office@sttheresakauai.com

108 15 3

$6,373– $7,015 46%

WASC; WCEA

Compliant

5–12 COED

Independent (808) 567-6981 dlukonen@gmail.com

35 3 N/A

$10,000 97%

SCHOOL Street Address | City, Zip Website

Accreditation

Licensing Status

Kaua‘i Licensed

Moloka‘i AKA‘ULA SCHOOL 900 Kala‘e Highway | Kualapu‘u 96757 akaula.org

Unlicensed

Higher Education CHAMINADE UNIVERSITY* 3140 Wai‘alae Ave. | Honolulu 96816 chaminade.edu

Higher Education COED

Roman Catholic (808) 735-4741 officeofthepresident@chaminade.edu

2,342 102 192

$30,760 95%

WASC

N/A

HAWAI‘I PACIFIC UNIVERSITY* 1 Aloha Tower Drive | Honolulu 96813 hpu.edu

Higher Education COED

Nondenominational (808) 544-0200 admissions@hpu.edu

4,586 162 207

$33,792 97%

WASC

N/A

* offers boarding 54

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BY M A R I TA K E TA PHOTOS BY OLIVIER KONING

A World of Food O‘ahu’s most diverse array of foods from around the globe is at its farmers markets and pop-up events.

The scene at ‘Ono Grindz and Mākeke in ‘Ewa Beach on Thursday evenings

A recent offering of Sushi Gyoshin’s omakase included flounder with plum and cherry blossom.

J U LY/A U G U S T 2 0 2 4

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‘ONO

If you think Honolulu’s food scene is still defined by poke, loco moco and Asian food, think again. The rise of farmers markets and food truck gatherings has spawned vendors serving up Argentinean barbecued meats, Lebanese zaatar flatbreads, Sri Lankan curries and more. Here’s a closer look at three of them—for their latest schedules, check their Instagrams.

Neha’s Kitchen’s Terai-style chicken curry on basmati rice

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N EH A’ S K I TC H EN

N SANSKRIT, neha means love. It’s the middle name Kuber and Leilani Gurung gave their daughter—a blend of his birthplace in Nepal and hers in Hawai‘i. So when Gurung opened his Nepali eatery in Leeward O‘ahu last year, Neha became its name, too. Neha’s Kitchen is mostly at farmers markets, though its schedule is likely to change: ‘Ewa Beach’s Mahiku Farmers Market on Wednesdays and ‘Ono Grindz and Mākeke on some Thursdays; What the Truck in Waikele on Fridays; and Wai‘anae Farmers Market on Saturday mornings. Its menu of momo dumplings, samosas, curries, Nepali chow mein and lal mohan, fried cheese balls with rose water and cane syrup, is a love letter to the Terai. The region of lowlands and savanna that girds the southern border of Nepal is Gurung’s homeland. From there the terrain rises to foothills and the Himalayas beyond, to the highest point on Earth, Mount Everest. Gurung explains all this when I ask about his curry—it tastes nothing like any I’ve had. “My curry is Terai style,” he says. “When I go to Nepal, the first thing I want to eat is my home food. Dinner and lunch from my sisters and my mother. Mixed vegetable curry, lentil soup, saag sautéed greens, three achar (pickled vegetables). I get fat when I go to Nepal.” His beef curry? Gurung starts by frying the seeds of nigella, anise, fenugreek and fennel until they release their aromas. Successive ingredients are cooked in turn before the next is added: onion, beef, turmeric and salt, ginger-garlic paste, his own masala blend with cumin and coriander and chiles, and finally, tomatoes, which have to melt completely. Braised for up to four hours, the curry

‘ONO

“As a Nepali, it is very important to showcase my country and its cuisine. It’s a beautiful country.” — Kuber Gurung

J U LY/A U G U S T 2 0 2 4

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presents as chunks of meat in a glossy, reddishbrown sauce. He would use Terai water buffalo if he could get it, he says, but the beef is tender and soulful and rich and craveable. If any of this sounds similar to Indian cooking, it’s better to keep that to yourself. “As a Nepali, it is very important to showcase my country and its cuisine. It’s a beautiful country. It’s kind of overshadowed by two ginormous countries, India and China,” Gurung says. “I respect India, I respect China, but I don’t want people to call Nepali food IndianChinese food. Nepali food is Nepali food.” nehaskitchen808.com, @nepalifood808

ALO HA G E R M AN BA KE RY

ORN IN WAHIAWĀ TO A GERMAN MOTHER and Native Hawaiian fa-

ther, Cecilia Tanya Koch grew up in Germany and stayed close to her father after her parents split. In early 2023, a visit with him in ‘Ewa Beach revealed what he hadn’t wanted to tell her: He had two kinds of cancer. Koch was 58, married with two grown sons and a corporate law practice in Baden-Baden, Germany. She was also her father’s only child. Two months later she moved to O‘ahu. “He’s my father. He grew me up. He deserves now that I help him too,” she says. “We are Hawaiian. So family is everything.” That’s the origin of Aloha German Bakery and its improbably complete line of breads, cakes, German pretzels and jams that Koch sets up at farmers markets—Makiki on Thursdays, Kaka‘ako on Saturdays and Kailua (next to Adventist Health Castle) on Sundays. After the immediacies of medical appointments and Veterans Administration paperwork came the realization that she needed a way to make a living—fast. “We were at the point of what can we do?” she says. Then she recalled what her mother told her. “My mom always said when you return back to Hawai‘i, open up a German bakery. She said a lot of people will love German pastries and it will be a good business.” So that’s what Koch did. And with the same clarity she brought to her father’s situation—he needed his family, and everything had to line up behind that—she decided Aloha German Bakery would be true to the flavors from her grandmother’s oven, no matter what. After four months of trying to bake her sourdough with American flours, she asked her husband, Ralf, to find a way to import German flour. (He did, from an organic mill near Baden-Baden.) Unable to get German quark for her cheesecake, Koch experimented with sour cream and low-fat Greek yogurt until she got the right balance. Polish fresh yeast for her apple cake comes from her best friend’s in-laws’ store in New Hampshire. Ralf, by the way, shuttles between Honolulu and his tax accountancy in Germany. 116

HONOLULU MAGAZINE

CO N T I N U ED O N PAG E 11 9

TOP: Blueberry Gugelhupf

cake at Aloha German Bakery ABOVE: Apple crumble cake RIGHT: Cecilia Tanya Koch and her husband, Ralf Koch

‘ONO

“My mom always said when you return back to Hawai‘i, open up a German bakery.” — Cecilia Tanya Koch

‘ONO

“We thought we were gonna clash. But surprisingly they marry well together.” Kim Thepsenavong and Juan Ching. NEXT PAGE : Khao and Papas’ Lao-style salchipapas, left, and Peruvian anticucho beef skewers, right

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— Juan Ching

‘ONO CO N T I N U ED F R O M PAG E 11 6

The Kochs’ younger son has enrolled at UH Mānoa. And their older son brought his daughter to meet her great-grandfather, who’s doing better, Koch says. “They played together. That was enormous to see how happy he was. That’s the most important moments.” alohagermanbakery.us, @alohagermanbakery

FINDS

The Global Menu These vendors bring dishes found rarely, if at all, at Honolulu’s brick-andmortar restaurants. Check each one’s Instagram for latest details about where to find them and what they’re serving. ASIAN

K H AO & PA PAS

A-Ma’s Gua Bao—Taiwanese steamed buns with pork belly, seasoned chicken, tofu and other fillings. @amas_gua_bao Nasi Lemak HI—Coconut rice with galangal fried chicken, beef rendang and vegan curry. @nasilemakhi EUROPEAN Little Sparrow—German spaetzle noodles sautéed with savory sauces including cheese or garlic shrimp; and jägerschnitzel pork cutlets. @littlesparrowhnl Pelmeshki—Eastern European pelmeshki and pierogi street food dumplings. @pelmeshki_hi INDIAN Curry Guru—Sri Lankan/South Indian dishes including turmeric rice meatball curry, curry-filled Naan-wiches and kuttu roti flatbreads. @curryguruhawaii

UAN CHING, A CHINESEPERUVIAN from Lima, was

raised on his grandmother’s aji de gallino spicy chicken stew, and saucy lomo saltado stirfry of beef and vegetables atop french fries. Kim Thepsenavong grew up on the Lao cooking of her mother. Two years ago their food truck, Khao and Papas, brought together the sum of their lives—their combined food memories with his 20 years in the kitchens of Alan Wong’s Pineapple Room, Limone, Basalt and Aulani resort, and her front-ofhouse work at the Moana Surfrider and Kaua‘i’s former St. Regis Princeville. Served up in Waimānalo on Sundays and at What the Truck in Waikele and the roving Mālama Hawai‘i Makers Market monthly, the pairings taste seamless. Like salchipapas loaded fries, the usual beef sausages swapped out for chunky pork sausages flecked with galangal and garnished with Laotian pickles. Or lemongrass short ribs over Peruvian pesto pasta. Or fusion ceviche, its leche de tigre replaced with a different chile-lime base of fish sauce, garlic and sugar. When I ask about the food, the couple’s sentences intersperse and stack up on each other. “Khao in Lao means food or rice. Papas is potatoes in Spanish and it’s one of the main starches in Peru,” Kim says. “We both love food. We both love our

culture. We create dishes that remind us of childhood and incorporate both of our flavors into it.” Juan chimes in. “In Peru there’s a lot of Asian ethnicities that fuse their cuisines. Their flavors are pretty similar and not overpowering. Versus Lao food—it can be pretty strong,” he says. “We thought we were gonna clash. But surprisingly they marry well together. We keep the essence of the cuisines but make the food more approachable.” As with Gurung and Koch, who cook to keep flavors of their home countries close, menus at Khao and Papas are driven by the deepest food memories. “That’s my comfort food growing up—sticky rice, a type of jaew, a type of fried veggies, barbecued meat, papaya salad,” Kim says. “We were so excited to introduce our anticucho skewers plate because it has sticky rice, pickled vegetables and jaew maklen,” spicy tomato dipping sauce. Perched on the purple rice, the beef threaded onto the skewers is soft and fragrant from Juan’s marinade and light grilling. Notes of garlic, cumin and Peruvian chiles are an easy match for the savory-sweet spiciness of Kim’s mother’s jaew maklen. It’s “what I grew up with,” Juan says. “When I cook now in the food truck, that all brings back memories.” @khaoandpapas

Simply Indulge—Pani puri, dosas and other South Indian food. @simplyindulge808 L AT I N Aloha Alfajores—Argentine cookies made with honey, nuts and dulce de leche. @alohaalfajores El Gallo—Anticuchos, salchipapas, picarones butternut squash doughnuts and other Peruvian street food. @elgallo.hawaii Guaiqueri Empanadas—Venezuelan empanadas with cheesy fillings including chorizo and sweet potato. @guaiqueri_empanadas Guaya—Cubano sandwiches. @guaya.emp Mar del Plata—Argentine grilled steak sandwiches and sausage sandwiches with chimichurri. @mardelplatabbq Nosh—Brazilian pão de queijo cheese bread. @nosh_hawaii Papi’s Empanadas—Argentine empanadas with fillings including crab, chicken and corn. @papisempanadas Rico Rico Chicken—Peruvian rotisserie chicken. @ricoricochicken MIDDLE EAST Māla-Be—Middle Eastern rose water cup desserts. @malabe_life Saj Beirut—Lebanese desserts and flatbreads topped or rolled with zaatar or minced lamb. @sajbeiruthawaii PA C I F I C 4rm Skrach—Pagipopo, puligi, pisupo and other Samoan dishes. @4rmskrach Perefoti Island Fixx—Vaifala, poi fa‘i, panikeke and other Samoan drinks and dishes. @perefotiislandfixx J U LY/A U G U S T 2 0 2 4

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AFTERTHOUGHTS

BY MARI TAKETA

Green Gold Counting the fruits of my avocado tree has become my obsession.

WO OR THREE TIMES A WEEK I’m in the backyard,

ISTOCK/GETTY IMAGES PLUS, CUTTLEFISH84, COMPOSITE BY JAMES NAKAMURA

counting the avocados on my tree. It’s not easy. The tree is 30 feet tall and the fruits are the same shape and glossy green as the leaves, which flit in the breeze and throw sun sparkles in my eyes. I get a different count every time—28? 38? It doesn’t really matter. What matters is there are avocados on the tree, and if you know the story of my tree, you might be counting, too. It’s an old tree that fruits every other year. When I was a child, my grandfather tied a swing to its lowest branch for me and my sister to play on. In late summer he sliced open the sweet, creamy orbs for us and sprinkled them with brown sugar. Thirty years later, I came home to this house and fell in love with the tree all over again—because people were stealing the avocados. One time I tiptoed across the yard and said hi to a man who was intently aiming his picker through the leaves (the suspect was skinny, with salt-and-pepper hair, and polite). Another time I thundered out of the house and across the yard (no description; she ran away before I could say hi). I even caught my grouchy old neighbor in the act (“Thank God it’s you!” I yelled out the window. “I was just about to call the police!”). So I’ve become a little possessive. Every other summer, I stand under the tree and consider writing my name on the biggest fruits. They still might get stolen, but this way the thief would know I know. I never have, though. What would the neighbors think, seeing me climb a ladder with a Sharpie? But now things have changed. I don’t care anymore. Last year, freak winds blew off nearly all the yellow blossoms that crown the tree in early spring. We had plans for that fruit. All the

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people who waited with us—Mr. Nago across the street, my cousin Rodney, James from Joy of Sake, Dad’s doctor’s little girl and so many others—lost the pleasure of those prized treats, and we lost the pleasure of giving them. Last year, we got two avocados from a tree that normally produces 200 to 300. That’s right, I counted. Last year was a seismic season in my avocado-verse. For the first time, an odd-numbered summer went by without the swish-and-thunk of avocados falling through leaves to the grass below. For me it’s always been a happy sound, especially in the long, quiet hours when insomnia keeps me up; then it’s a secret between me and the tree. Some years, up to 14 fruitswould fall in a day and send my guacamole production into overdrive (the recipe for Mari’s Should-Be-WorldFamous Guacamole is posted on frolichawaii. com—search “Keep Your Picker Out of My Tree”). Those years I forced avocados on people who didn’t even want them. I would have been happy to share with my wouldbe thieves, too, had they only asked. Just holler next time. So this year we fertilized, and it’s going on three years that I’ve been waiting. Not only am I writing my name on every avocado I can reach, I’m writing the names of everyone who’s been waiting with me. Twenty-eight? Thirtyeight? Every single one is spoken for. But I know there are a few more up there. They’re on the highest branches, in the most sun-blinded spots. And in the one corner I’ve been avoiding since I discovered a bird’s nest and startled the parents into shrieking flight. So if you love avocados, shoot me a line—if I find any extra, I’ll write your name on one, too.

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