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2022 Readers’ Choice Awards You voted, and here are your winners—over a thousand of them—in categories ranging from best poke to best beach. The 10th annual Readers’ Choice Awards is truly one of the most comprehensive guides to the best everything on every island—chosen by the best readers in the world. (That’s you!)

HAWAI‘I Magazine’s 23rd Annual Photo Contest

photo: courtesy of Loko Ea

From epic sunrises on O‘ahu’s North Shore to jaw dropping shots of the Islands’ wildlife and people, our 23rd Annual Photo Contest has some of the best winners we’ve ever seen in its five distinct categories: Land, Sea, People, Wildlife and Sunrise/Sunset. Hopefully these inspiring captures will get you to pick up the camera on your next trip to the Islands and submit your own photos for next year’s contest.

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IN THIS ISSUE ISLANDS 18

O‘ahu: A Fresh Take With a new look and feel, Turtle Bay Resort on O‘ahu has transformed its image and property. BY KE VI N ALLE N

23 Maui: Say Mahalo for Beer A new brewery featuring locally foraged ingredients and flavors has opened on Maui. BY TODD A. VI N ES

26 Kaua‘i: A Step Into Hanalei’s Past Kaua‘i’s Ching Young Village Shopping Center has persevered and evolved along with its tight-knit community. BY GRACE M AE DA

30 Hawai‘i Island: Your Guide to Waimea Among the pastureland and paniolo, farmers markets, breweries and more thrive in the little town of Waimea on Hawai‘i Island. BY LAU RE N OKI NA K A

18 DEPARTMENTS 11

Editor’s Page

72 One Last Look

A Hui Hou

Pe‘ahi, Maui

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Ho‘omaka

12 E Komo Mai 14 Q&A with visitor industry expert Kalani Ka‘āna‘anā 16 A Pinch of SALT

Like a Local The Simple Perfection of Poke BY K E V IN A LLE N

69 Mālama

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The electric blue hues of the ever-popular Lanikai Beach are what visitors dream of. Add in Nā Mokulua—the two small islets just off the coast of O‘ahu—and you have a scene that many would consider paradise. PHOTO NAS H HAG E N (@nashhagen)

Inside this issue are some of the best businesses, restaurants, beaches, snorkeling spots and more voted on by our very own readers.

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Visit the Islands with an Aloha-First Mindset

A special message from the

Hawai‘i Tourism Authority Aloha kākou, The readers of HAWAI‘I Magazine are probably quite familiar with the Hawaiian cultural value of aloha. At the Hawai‘i Tourism Authority today, we are working toward raising the profile of and emphasizing the importance of embracing aloha’s sister value, mālama—to care for, to nurture, and to protect the Hawai‘i we all love. In the early days of the pandemic, our responsibility to mālama our community meant asking visitors to reschedule their visits. Hawai‘i welcomed a record-shattering 10.4 million visitors in 2019, and the pause in 2020 provided an opportunity for Hawai‘i to reflect and consider what the future of tourism could look like. Residents across Hawai‘i engaged in building the Destination Management Action Plans, community-generated documents that articulate the concerns and desires of kama‘āina, tactical plans that guide our work today. Through the diligence of our community and the health safeguards implemented across the islands, we were able to begin reopening Hawai‘i to visitors—with an invitation to travel mindfully, to visit responsibly, and to consider the ways you can leave Hawai‘i a better place for today’s kama‘āina and for future generations. When you shop and eat local, you support small businesses that sustain local families. When you spend a day working side by side with kama‘āina at community workdays or volunteer projects through the Mālama Hawai‘i program, you will make memories that last a lifetime while helping support Hawai‘i’s natural environment, culture and community. Learn more about Mālama Hawai‘i at gohawaii.com/malama. We invite you to learn more about the ways you can be a more mindful visitor at gohawaii. com, our official travel website with tips on ocean and land safety, astute renting of alternative accomodations, information on Hawaiian culture and how to visit special sites respectfully, and more. One well-known Hawaiian proverb reminds us: ‘o ke aloha ke kuleana o kahi malihini. Aloha is as much a responsibility of a guest as it is the host. As we express our aloha by hosting you in our home, we invite you to reciprocate that aloha by being a mindful, respectful guest.

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Mālama pono. (Take care.)

JOHN DE FRIES

President and CEO Hawai‘i Tourism Authority

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HAWAI‘I Magazine (ISSN 0892-0990) All contents copyright © 2022 . Published quarterly by aio Media Group, 1088 Bishop St., Ste. LL2, Honolulu, HI, 96813-3113. Phone: (808) 534-7520/Fax: (808) 537-6455. POSTMASTER: Please send address changes to HAWAI‘I Magazine, 1088 Bishop St., Ste. LL2, Honolulu, HI, 96813-3113. © 2022 aio Media Group, LLC. All rights reserved. Any unauthorized copying, distribution, or adaptation is strictly prohibited and will result in liability of up to $100,000. Periodicals Postage Paid at Honolulu, Hawai‘i and at additional mailing offices. Subscription rate is $19.99 for 4 quarterly issues. Canadian and foreign surface, add $9 extra per year payable in U.S. funds. Single copy price is $5.99 U.S., $5.99 Canadian. Please allow 6-8 weeks for new subscriptions to begin. When changing address, give six weeks’ notice and address label from latest copy, as well as new address with ZIP code. Occasionally, we make our subscriber list available to carefully screened companies that offer products and services that we believe would interest our readers. If you do not want to receive these offers and/or information, please write us at aio Media Group, 1088 Bishop St., Ste. LL2, Honolulu, HI, 96813-3113. Phone: (808) 534-7520/Fax: (808) 537-6455 or send us an e-mail to circulation@ pacificbasin.net. Unsolicited manuscripts and photographs are not accepted. Please wait for a response to your query before sending materials. Reasonable care in handling manuscripts and photographs will be taken, but HAWAI‘I Magazine cannot be responsible for unsolicited materials. Return undeliverable Canadian addresses to: Circulation Dept., Station A, P.O. Box 54, Windsor, ON N9A 6J5; cpcreturns@ wdsmail.com Printed in the U.S.A.

EDITOR'S PAGE

TKTK

| HO‘OMAKA

A Hui Hou

As I welcome you all back to Hawai‘i—and a new and improved HAWAI‘I Magazine—I also bid you adieu.

college—actually I was still in college when I started as an intern. Heck, I even went from my graduation ceremony to the office to help put out an issue.

And talk about a dream job. Being born and raised right here on O‘ahu, having the chance to write about my home and share stories of the bright, colorful people of the Islands quickly became something I was proud of. My parents still have the first few issues I worked on by their bedside tables, and I’ve cherished every edition we’ve put out to print in my five-year tenure. Now, as interim editor, it pains me that I must say this will be my last issue as a member of the HAWAI‘I Magazine staff. Cue the tears. But hey, what an issue it is! You may have already noticed, but the magazine has a whole new look, one our team is incredibly excited about. With the state reopening to visitors—welcome back, by the way—and HAWAI‘I Magazine return-

ing to print, we thought we’d revamp the visuals, with a focus on increasing photo sizes and quality so that you, the reader, get bigger and better images of Hawai‘i. Don’t worry, the stories that you love are still here. One of our biggest features of the year, the Readers’ Choice Awards (see page 33) is back, celebrating some of the finest hotels, beaches, restaurants and more in the Islands. And it’s all voted on by our readers, who have vacationed or lived in Hawai‘i and truly know the best of the best. Speaking of stories that would be impossible without your contributions, HAWAI‘I Magazine’s annual photo contest (see page 62) returns with another round of award-worthy captures—in categories ranging from land, sea and wildlife to sunsets and sunrises. Also in this issue, our new associate editor, Grace Maeda, makes her HAWAI‘I Magazine print debut, writing about the historic Ching Young Village Shopping Center on Kaua‘i (see page 26) and interviewing the Hawai‘i Tourism Authority’s chief brand officer, Kalani Ka‘anā‘anā

(see page 14). So everybody, please say aloha to Grace. We’re lucky to have her. Obviously, there’s a lot of change happening right now. In the Islands, coronavirus restrictions are loosening; meanwhile, the visitor industry is promoting “regenerative tourism,” and you can find out what that means in our newly introduced Mālama section (see page 69), which covers the work visitors and kama‘āina (longtime residents or locals) are doing to care for the land and keep the state beautiful. HAWAI‘I Magazine is also changing, but rest assured, this change is for the best. In the face of all this movement, you can always find comfort in knowing that Hawai‘i, its beaches, its people and its unique sense of aloha, will always be here for you. And HAWAI‘I Magazine will always be here to tell you all about it. We promise. Aloha, a hui hou,

KEVIN ALLEN

photo: aaron k. yoshino

AWAI‘I MAGAZINE WAS MY FIRST JOB out of

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HO‘OMAKA

HO‘OMAKA |

TKTK

to begin

E Komo Mai Welcome back, we missed you. BY KEVIN ALLEN

HA WA I ‘ I M A G A Z I N E

W E LC O M E

photo: aaron k. yoshino, getty images / okimo, getty images / jeannehatchs

KOMO MAI. IT MEANS “WELCOME,” IN ‘ŌLELO HAWAI‘I (HAWAIIAN LANGUAGE). And it’s what we

say to you as you begin to book trips back to the Islands. While there are certainly things that have changed, Hawai‘i’s beaches are just as beautiful as ever and the aloha spirit continues to thrive. And with coronavirus cases showing a steady decline as we march through the year, travelers and residents face fewer restrictions. There is no longer a quarantine period for domestic travelers— vaccinated or not, the Safe Travels program has ended and all Hawai‘i counties have dropped their local COVID-19 restrictions. We’re moving back to normalcy—slow and steady—and it shows. While tourism has reopened, and many businesses, restaurants and tours are returning to their pre-pandemic pace, there are a few things Hawai‘i visitors should keep in mind. First, while the Islands are welcoming back travelLEFT ers with open arms, the Lei are often visitor industry here is used to welcome placing great emphasis visitors. on “regenerative tourTOP LEFT ism.” So what does that mean? Regenerative Waikīkī still looks stunning. tourism aims to enrich not only the visitor exTOP RIGHT perience in the Islands, Views just like but also to maintain this are waiting the Islands’ natural for your return.

| HO‘OMAKA

beauty and splendor while promoting local producers and products. This is being accomplished in a few key ways. Hotels and airlines are teaming up with “voluntourism” organizations, such as Travel2change and the Mālama Hawai‘i Program, to offer travelers a chance to give back to the ‘āina (land) while also saving money on hotel rates. Aside from the savings and deals, travelers can learn so much more about the Islands by working with kama‘āina (longtime residents or locals) in local areas to improve and beautify their communities. The industry is also backing Hawai‘i-made products and produce like never before. Eateries and restaurants are making it a point to highlight locally sourced produce, from the freshest greens to raisedin-Hawai‘i beef. So taste what the Islands have to offer at these fine establishments; oftentimes these restaurants will cater their menus seasonally to what’s being grown, leading to exciting culinary dishes and choices. Putting aside the regenerative tourism initiatives and programs—more than anything we’re happy to have you all back. Hawai‘i is not the same without its visitors, and you all bring so much to the Islands. So, from the bottom of our hearts, e komo mai. P Read more about the new Hawai‘i by scanning the QR code on the page.

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HO‘OMAKA |

Q&A

The Island Way Ushering in a new model of travel in Hawai‘i, Kalani Ka‘anā‘anā hopes to establish enriching experiences for visitors, while supporting Hawaiian culture, local communities and the Islands’ natural resources. BY GRACE MAEDA

HA WA I ‘ I M A G A Z I N E

Q&A

S HAWAI‘I ONCE AGAIN WELCOMES TRAVEL, it does so with new avenues for visitors to partake in “trips that give back.” At the helm of establishing this regenerative tourism model is Kalani Ka‘anā‘anā, Hawai‘i Tourism Authority’s chief brand officer. Born and raised on O‘ahu, Ka‘anā‘anā assumed the newly created position last summer and sees regenerative tourism as the Island way—leaving a place better than when you found it.

A part of HTA’s long-term strategy, which runs through 2025, is to provide visitors with genuine Hawaiian cultural experiences. How do you see HTA accomplishing that? In my role, I have an opportunity to bring the four pillars of the strategic plan together (natural resources, Hawaiian culture, community and brand marketing). When I think about the health of our home, it’s really predicated on those four pillars. By creating my role and with the new direction of the strategic plan, it aligns us in a place where we’re making investments in our natural resources through community-based nonprofit partners who are doing the groundwork. We’re inviting visitors to partake in that work, so we say, “Take a trip that gives back,” because we truly believe visitors can have these enriching and authentic experiences as they explore in a responsible way.

photo: aaron k. yoshino

portance of Hawaiian language to a visitor, it’s their opportunity to connect with us and see what’s important through our lens. That’s the intention with Mālama Hawai‘i. It was this idea of introducing and educating visitors to this Hawaiian cultural value of mālama and what it means to care for someone. And if you’re being respectful while trying Hawaiian language, I think people will support you in that. We have a Hawaiian language page (gohawaii.com/hawaiian-culture/hawaiian-language-guide) that can help visitors familiarize themselves with words before or during their trip.

How do you envision “voluntourism” growing in Hawaiʻi? Why should visitors seek out volunteer opportunities?

“We truly believe visitors can have these enriching and authentic experiences as they explore in a responsible way.”

The cultural pillar also places more emphasis on the Hawaiian language. Being fluent in ʻōlelo Hawaiʻi (Hawaiian language) yourself, how can learning about it help visitors develop a stronger understanding of the Islands’ culture? The whole essence of our worldview is captured in our language. There’s a correlation between the number of words that a culture has for something and how it denotes its importance to that culture. When you look at Hawaiian language, there are wind names, rain names and kalo (taro) varieties; all these things had hundreds of names. When I think of the im-

| HO‘OMAKA

When I think about regenerative tourism, it goes back to an island way of thinking as island people. For us, it’s a return to those sustainable ways. When you grow up local style, you leave a place better than when you found it. We encourage visitors to be a part of it and say, “Hey, if I love this place and I see some rubbish on the ground, I’m going to pick it up and throw it away because it’s the right thing to do.” Regenerative tourism in its simplest form is that.

Will a visitor’s experience today differ from what it was 10 years ago?

Visitors will find that the experiences they have are much more connected to a sense of place. The kind of experiences our industry partners have been working on are much better rooted in culture. So, you’ll see many more lei making and weaving classes. Another way trips have changed is quite frankly due to the pandemic. We can’t ignore the fact that the pandemic has changed travel in immense ways. Mālama Hawai‘i can also be interpersonal. There are myriad ways to take care of one another—people to people—and that has changed because of the pandemic. P

For more information on how to participate in a volunteer program, visit gohawaii.com/malama.

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HO‘OMAKA |

SHOPPING

A Pinch of SALT SALT at Our Kaka‘ako, a bustling shopping center in the heart of Honolulu, has a little bit of everything when it comes to locally made gifts to bring back from the Islands for your friends, family or even yourself. Checked bags are optional: Everything in this roundup can fit right into your carry-on. B Y TAY L O N FA LTA S A N D S TA C E Y M A K I YA

1. "On Surfing" by Michael Adno and Matt Titone We love a souvenir that doubles as reading material for a long flight. Surf’s up! $30, Milo, (808) 369-1888

2. Downtown General Store Flour Sack Towels Relished for so much more than storing flour, these hand-screened towels can serve as polishing cloths, kitchen towels, decorations and more, just as they did dating back to the plantation days of Hawai‘i.

3. Aloha Vibes Only Cap This go-with-everything baseball cap is the perfect addition to your collection and is one of those staples that can be used for many trips to come. $38, Urban Island Society, (808) 492-8856

4. Indigo Elixirs Made from botanicals sourced from Mānoa, these all-natural aromatherapy and restorative balms will promote some post-vacation R&R. $16–$24, Paiko, (808) 988-2165

5. Amlou Connections Series Candle

7. Formidably Impressed Greeting Cards

Ground yourself with this coconut soy wax candle that features notes of sage, cedar, pine, eucalyptus, rosemary and green floral and is made right here in Hawai‘i.

Take a piece of the Islands with you with these creative cards made by hand—perfect for any occasion.

$30, Milo, (808) 369-1888

6. Empress Earrings Everyone needs a chunky clay earring in their jewelry arsenal and these pieces of wearable art are sure to make a statement. $26–$36, Paiko, (808) 988-2165

$5–$6, Paiko, (808) 988-2165

8. Alanui Quick-Dry Beach Towel Switching out the bulky terry cloth beach towel for its quick-dry compact cousin might just be the best decision you’ll ever make, as the Alanui towel rolls up neatly to fit in your carry-on. $39.50, Kahala, (808) 521-4578

$12, Paiko, (808) 988-2165

7 5

4 8

HA WA I ‘ I M A G A Z I N E

ADV ERTISEMENT

Celebration of Color

Browse this Waikīkī boutique bursting with joy, Indian textiles and the aloha spirit. BY L AURA DORNBUSH

ou can’t help but do a double-take when you stroll past island HOLI, a vibrant shop at the International Market Place along Kalākaua Avenue. First you’ll notice the pops of orange, crimson and indigo displayed in the window, and then you’ll be drawn inside by the dramatic designs of the handwoven palm tree raffia hats perched on the shelves, perfect for a day on Waikīkī Beach. The upscale store features all-natural handmade fashion, home décor and accessories crafted by skilled artisans in India. Expect to find hand-embroidered cotton blouses, lightweight block-printed dresses and bedding dyed with indigo, turmeric and henna, all displayed beautifully in a designer retail environment like no other. Originally from India, owner Shilpa Rathi shares her unique vision of the fusion between Holi, the Hindu festival of color, and Hawai‘i’s aloha spirit. “I see so many similarities between growing up in India and now raising my daughter in Hawai‘i—the colors you see all around, the scent of plumeria and jasmine, and that your neighbors bring over

mangoes from their backyard.” Shilpa also takes inspiration from the designs that her young daughter draws, and how she combines colors that one wouldn’t think to put together. “We play with color every day here,” she reveals. This joyous mantra can be seen in the spectrum of shades hanging on the racks via handmade bean bags, totes, tunics, sarongs and hats. “Most of our customers are drawn into the store by the vivid colors of our items. Some are afraid of including these amazing colors in their wardrobe. This is where island HOLI comes in by encouraging them to try out new colors and give them the confidence to make a bold and beautiful statement,” Shilpa says. She gives them time to browse and soak it all in making for a no pressure shopping atmosphere. When they have a question, Shilpa’s eager to explain the story behind each piece, how it was made and the organic materials used. Customers also flock to the boutique for the versatile throw blankets, a type of quilt hand-stitched using layers upon layers of the softest vintage cotton fabric in a rainbow of shades. All visitors to the store can appreciate the laborious craft, similar to the Japanese stitching technique, Sashiko. If you’re not already walking on a rainbow by the end of your visit, you will be when you learn that island HOLI gives a portion of all sales to support the Smile Foundation’s Swabhiman program (meaning “self-esteem”) which focuses on education for girls in rural India. Preserving and sharing ancient Indian textile arts through these beautiful ecofriendly products is a core mission of island HOLI’s. It is their mission to take you on a journey through a rich vibrant colorful world of all things handmade and all things natural, every time you visit.

island HOLI is open daily from 11:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. International Market Place, Level 1 | 2330 Kalākaua Ave., Honolulu | (844) 475-4654 | instagram.com/islandHOLI

ISLANDS |

O ‘A H U

A Fresh Take

With a new look and feel, Turtle Bay Resort on O‘ahu has transformed its image and property. STORY BY KEVIN ALLEN PHOTOS COURTESY OF T U R T L E B AY R E S O R T

HA WA I ‘ I M A G A Z I N E

O ‘A H U

| ISLANDS

OR DECADES, TURTLE BAY RESORT HAS BEEN A LANDMARK ACCOMMODATION

on the North Shore of O‘ahu. Opening in May 1972 as Del Webb’s Kuilima Resort Hotel & Country Club, the hotel is a visitor’s oasis far from the big city. And in a way, I wouldn’t even be here if not for the resort. Like many new transplants moving to the island’s North Shore in search of surf and sunshine, my dad—from California—and my mom—from South Korea—both worked at the Turtle Bay Resort. It’s where they met. My grandparents owned a timeshare there, and I learned how to swim in its pools. And it’s not just me with close, emotional ties to Turtle Bay Resort— many visitors and kama‘āina (longtime residents) have made everlasting memories on the property, sipping mai tais at the poolside bar, going on unforgettable horseback rides along the sparkling beaches and taking in the views from the hotel’s luxurious rooms. And now, after nearly 50 years of operation, the resort has changed. “It’s not really a renovation,” says Tom Donovan, vice president and managing director of Turtle Bay Resort. “It’s a transformation; we’ve really transformed the entire space.” It’s the truth. Even from my hazy childhood memories, I can tell things are different, for the better. Lobby walls have been replaced by floor-to-ceiling windows showcasing jaw-dropping views of the North Shore, and even the check-in desk is backed by a stunning vision of the coastline stretching toward Kahuku. Serious effort has also been put into redesigning and reimaging the interior decor, which now sports a beachy, boho-chic look. It’s mismatched and eclectic, and resembles the type of furniture you might find in a bougie beachfront home in the area. “We’re the North Shore, we’re the country,” Donovan says of Turtle Bay Resort’s OPPOSITE new look. “We’re really going for that bareThe luxe entrance foot luxury essence, it has to have a conof the new and nection to the surf vibe and the land that’s improved Turtle Bay Resort. here.” According to Donovan, almost all of the original furnishings and decor had been ABOVE ripped out and replaced during the transGorgeous, chic formation, which began in early 2020. And furnishings welcome visitors while it isn’t the same Turtle Bay Resort that around every I remember, the hotel’s new look doesn’t feel corner of the stuffy or overwhelming. Instead, it feels like resort.

home. From the ever courteous and locally charming staff to small details like the inviting window-side loveseats in the hallways that lead to your room, so many newly introduced aspects give the resort a comfortable, lived-in atmosphere. While the changes at Turtle Bay Resort are plentiful, the area surrounding the hotel has stayed very much the same. In fact, the state has designated the resort a steward of the 1,300 surrounding acres. It keeps the beauty of the area intact by working with local nonprofits and volunteer organizations like the North Shore Land Trust and Sustainable Coastlines. And the surrounding area pays it back by providing hotel guests with so many opportunities for outdoor fun and adventure. “Golfing, snorkeling, surfing, horseback rides, mountain biking and so much more,” says Donovan. “And every one of our activities is five minutes away from our lobby doors.” SPRING 2 0 22

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O ‘A H U

One of the activities getting a lot of attention from the hotel’s younger crowd is the Jamie O’Brien Surf Experience. The professional surfer from the North Shore has accrued a huge following on YouTube and social media, and has teamed up with Turtle Bay Resort to offer surf lessons at the break right next to the hotel. “We wanted something that could connect a little more with the next generation, and we thought this would be a really neat way to do it,” says Donovan. “Jamie doesn’t do all the lessons; he travels a lot, but every once in a while he’ll show up and surprise families and kids.” In a way, much of the hotel’s transformation and new vibe can be seen, smelled and tasted at the resort’s new restaurant, Alaia. A casual dining environment paired with seriously good food, Alaia’s menu consists of uber-fresh entrees, tasty pūpū (appetizers) and a selection of dangerously delightful adult beverages. From the caramelized he‘e (octo20

HA WA I ‘ I M A G A Z I N E

pus) that melts in your mouth to the spaghetti primavera—which features grilled veggies straight from Turtle Bay Resort’s on-property farm—you can’t go wrong with anything on the menu. And the culinary minds behind Alaia make sure not to over-spice and use only minimal artificial flavoring. They let the quality of the ingredients, much of it grown or gathered on the North Shore, speak for themselves. While it may not be the same space I remember from my past, Turtle Bay Resort’s new look and feel is sure to make an enduring impression on guests for many years to come. The way its lobby highlights the natural splendor of the coast. The tranquility of the new adults-only pool—and the ABOVE exciting chaos of the family pool below it. The comfort in knowing that you can wake Jamie O’Brien may make a surprise up in the morning and find a nice spot to appearence at your sit down and watch the sunrise, only to surf lesson. return to the same spot in the evening to OPPOSITE watch the sunset. Sometimes change is unAt the Turtle Bay welcome, but, at the Turtle Bay Resort, it’s Resort, every room for the best. P has a great view, fullstop.

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O ‘A H U

Turtle Bay Resort 57-091 Kamehameha Hwy, Kahuku, (866) 475-2569, turtlebayresort.com.

Serving Ono Hawai‘i Comfort Food Since 1961

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Say Mahalo for Beer A new brewery featuring locally foraged ingredients and flavors has opened on Maui. STORY BY TODD A. VINES P H O T O S B Y R YA N S I P H E R S

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MAUI

HERE ARE PLENTY OF REASONS TO VISIT MAUI’S SCENIC UPCOUNTRY, from

verdant hiking trails, to diverse agriculture tours, to the undisputed splendor of Haleakalā National Park. Now, Upcountry also offers a new opportunity to enjoy a cold, local beer. Mahalo Aleworks, a brewery and taproom in Pukalani, opened its doors in September. The newest addition to Maui’s burgeoning craft beer scene, Mahalo Aleworks has quickly earned a reputation as a convenient, family-friendly place to refresh along the way to your Upcountry adventure. A key ingredient to Mahalo Aleworks’ early success may be its unique approach to brewing. It doesn’t produce lagers, the most popular beer style in the world; instead it focuses exclusively on what it calls “rustic, artisanal farmhouse ales” made from local, native and foraged ingredients. While the two-story, 3,500-square-foot facility boasts more than a dozen taps pouring popular styles such as India pale ale, amber, wheat and stout, Mahalo Aleworks also has an extensive “sour beer” program. “We built Mahalo Aleworks to focus on sour beers as one of our core styles, mainly due to the incredible selection of local fruit available year-round,” says Ben Kopf, who founded Mahalo Aleworks with his wife, Jacquelyn. The taproom’s bestselling beer is a Liliko‘i Sour, each keg containing more than 4 pounds of local, organic liliko‘i (passion fruit) juice, and the Starfruit Sour has received a similarly warm welcome. Though “sour beer” is a relatively recent trend in America, Kopf points out that it’s actually one of the oldest styles in brewing. “Back in the day, all beer was essentially sour due to lots of naturally occurring yeast and bacteria that would have been present,” says Kopf. “The resurgence of popularity in sour beers is pretty fun to see.” What you won’t find on tap at Mahalo Aleworks are “flagship beers,” a small handful of styles made the exact same way time and time again. Kopf says his team is constantly tweaking, tinkering with, or altogether changing its recipes in search of the next great flavor. In just its first four months of operation, the 24

HA WA I ‘ I M A G A Z I N E

taproom debuted more than 40 original beers. “We love brewing different beers all the time because it keeps things interesting, and lets us constantly experiment and explore the variety of local ingredients that happen to be available or in season at any given time,” says Kopf. “Current beer consumers have really trended toward anticipating new beers coming out on a regular basis.” At street level, Mahalo Aleworks offers beer garden-style seating. Upstairs, patrons find comfy leather seats and stools along the lānai (veranda) with prime views of Mā‘alaea Bay, Central Maui and Mauna Kahalawai, also known as the West Maui Mountains. For those who are lukewarm on cold beer, the taproom offers a curated selection of wine, as well as nonalcoholic options. While the modern industrial setting lacks a commercial kitchen, guests don’t have to go hungry. Wood-fired, Neapolitan-style sourdough pizza can be ordered from the adjacent Restaurant Marlow, and Upcountry Sausage Co. sells gourmet sausages and smash burgers from a small cart on-site. Mahalo Aleworks is among a small community of Maui craft brewers, joining Maui Brewing Company, Hawai‘i’s largest craft brewer and the island’s undisputed beer patriarch, and Koholā Brewery, which has operated in Lahaina since 2016. Some people add O‘ahu-based Waikīkī Brewing Co. to the list: It’s operated a modest, on-site brewing operation at its Lahaina restaurant since 2020. Yet even with the growing number of brewers, the majority of the beer consumed on Maui is made out of state, according to the Hawaiian Craft Brewers Guild. Though still in its first year of operation, Mahalo Aleworks is already bringing home the gold. The brewery earned three medals at the 2021 Hawai‘i Craft Beer Awards, including a gold for its distinct English Brown, and was named Best New Brewery in Hawai‘i.

MAUI

Producing an authentically local product is a pillar of the Mahalo Aleworks ethos. Kopf explains that his team is in the process of analyzing yeasts that have been collected in the wild from the slopes of Haleakalā, a process known in the industry as “wrangling.” That yeast, essential for the fermentation process, will form the base of future beers, making each a start-to-finish tribute to Maui’s biodiversity. It’s a plan put forth by renowned wild ale maker Eric Salazar, who serves as Mahalo Aleworks’ “wild and sour” program curator. “After lots of discussion on how to make our program exceptional, [Eric] was the one who actually suggested we try using local, wild yeast,” says Kopf. “It’s a much more time-consuming and difficult process, but should result in some unique flavors that nobody else will be able to make. Plus, it lends a true sense of terroir to the beer since the yeast will be from here, and only here.” OPPOSITE Until the right wild yeast is cultivatMahalo Aleworks uses local, native and ed, the brewing process begins in a more foraged ingredients for traditional manner. Two “mother beers” its brews. are brewed on-site in a pair of large TOP LEFT American White Oak foeders, a type of fermentation vessel. From there, beers The two-story, 3,500-square-foot are blended, fruited and aged in fruiting brewery and taproom tanks, typically with ingredients harvestis located in Pukalani. ed from local farms or Mahalo Aleworks’ TOP RIGHT own organic orchard. The taproom then rolls out a new brew every few days, Visitors to the taproom can purchase 32-ounce delivering a steady flow of small-batch, cans of any beer on made-on-Maui ale. tap, which will be filled and sealed on demand. While Mahalo Aleworks is the fulfill-

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ment of a dream that began more than 15 years ago for the Kopfs, the couple will admit that the journey has, at times, been a nightmare. After the Kopfs relocated to Maui from the Bay Area in 2018, it took more than three years before Mahalo Aleworks poured its first pint, as the pair navigated a false start at a different location, permitting purgatory, supply chain challenges and, of course, a global health crisis. Despite the challenging start, business is beginning to pick up. Visitors are discovering the taproom, which is tucked away toward the rear of Kulamalu Town Center. Brewery tours are set to begin later this year. Further on the horizon, Kopf would like to open a second tasting room elsewhere on the island. There are no immediate plans for canning and mass distribution of products, but visitors to the taproom can purchase “crowlers,” 32-ounce cans of any beer on tap, filled and sealed on demand. For the moment, Kopf says his primary focus is crafting creative, barrel-aged ales. “There’s a lot of room to make beer in Hawai‘i to be consumed in Hawai‘i.” P

Mahalo Aleworks 30 Kūpaoa Street, Unit 101, Makawao, mahaloaleworks.com, @MahaloAleworks. SPRING 2 0 22

A Step Into Hanalei’s Past Kaua‘i’s Ching Young Village Shopping Center has persevered and evolved along with its tight-knit community. STORY BY GRACE MAEDA PHOTOS BY JAMES NAKAMURA

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K A U A‘ I

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ALKING THROUGH THE CHING YOUNG VILLAGE SHOPPING CENTER IS LIKE TAKING A STEP BACK IN TIME. With mom

and pop shops that have called the center home since the 1980s and ’90s, the plaza captures Hanalei’s charming mix of small-town spirit and surf culture. Generations of residents and visitors have come to cherish browsing through quaint boutiques and noshing on local fare at the family-operated shopping center. Since the ’90s, Backdoor Surf Shop has been a Hanalei favorite for rad alternative surf and skate apparel. Pedal n Paddle, one of the first tenants to take up residency in the shopping center in the ’80s, continues to prep eager beachgoers with every seaside essential imaginable. Likewise, the Village Snack Shop & Bakery is a mainstay from the ’80s. The hole-in-thewall establishment is sought out for its chile pepper chicken and chocolate haupia pie. Spinning Dolphin, a silk-screening shop, is also from the ’80s. The owner, Melanie Kuebler, tells me that not much has changed at the shopping center. “It’s just like when we first bought the shop,” she says. “But the shop was already here 10 years before we bought it, and we bought it 28 years ago. Both my husband and I were artists, so it was the perfect transition for us.” OPPOSITE The shop maintains a loyal following of Plans for building the Ching Young out-of-state customers, with returning travVillage Shopping elers often finding their way back to SpinCenter began in the ning Dolphin and the Ching Young Village late '70s and early '80s. Shopping Center. “I’ve seen families grow up,” Kuebler says. “One year, a mom and ABOVE dad will come in with two kids, the next Many returning year it’s three, a couple years later it’s four.” visitors make their way to the Spinning The shopping village is like old-school Dolphin, a silk Hawai‘i, the one seen on vintage postcards. screening shop And that same nostalgic appeal is reflected from the '80s.

in the fashion too. Kuebler notices her younger clientele gravitating toward her designs from the ’80s. “They’re vintage and that’s what they’re going for—retro but on a new shirt!” she says. Despite its focus on the past, the Ching Young Village Shopping Center has grown tremendously from its start more than a century ago as a family-owned general store. “I don’t think my grandparents would recognize the place if they came back today,” says Michael Ching, the center’s manager and a third-generation Hanalei resident. His grandfather started the original general store. “My earliest memory of the shopping center starts probably about 1960 when we operated a small, general merchandise store in Hanalei. It had produce, meats, canned goods, fishing supplies, plumbing supplies—a little of everything,” Ching tells me. “But we have to go back in history a little more.” SPRING 2 0 22

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K A U A‘ I

LEFT Many of the shops at the village center have been tenants for decades. BELOW

Ching’s grandfather, Ching Young, immigrated to Kaua‘i from China at the turn of the century. In 1906, Ching Young and his brother leased a small plot of land in Hanalei to start a general store and rice mill, and in 1911, he renamed the businesses the Ching Young Store and Ching Young Rice Mill. Meeting through a traditional Chinese matchmaker, Ching Young married Dang Ha Ching. Together, they had eight children, and it was up to his wife to provide for them after Ching Young died in 1933. And she did, with help from the general store and mill, which she continued to operate. In the ’50s, Michael Ching’s father, Lawrence Ching, bought the store from his mother. With his wife, Jennie, and two sons, Lawrence Ching led the general store through periods of change and development on the island. When he acquired the store, rice was no longer the main crop in Hawai‘i: Now, sugar was king. The Chings pivoted to meet the needs of local sugarcane workers. And it evolved again in the ’60s, spurred by an influx of new arrivals to Kaua‘i. Sugar was still big business, but now tourism propelled the economy. Lawrence Ching renovated the store, adding the Hanalei Post Office to serve the local community and budding visitor industry. By the late ’70s and early ’80s, he started developing a shopping center. 28

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photo: courtesy of ching young village shopping center

Lawrence Ching and his wife Jennie outside their family general store.

“We developed the property in the 1980s and it was completed in 1982, just in time for Hurricane ‘Iwa,” Ching recalls. At the time, the Category 1 hurricane was the state’s costliest storm. Ten years later, in September 1992, Hurricane ‘Iniki made a direct hit on Kaua‘i. The Category 4 hurricane caused $3 billion in damage to the state, killed several people and knocked out power for weeks in some places. The Ching Young Shopping Center suffered severe structural damage and took two years to rebuild. But the original Ching Young Store built near the turn of the century suffered only minor damage and was still standing. The weeks following Hurricane ‘Iniki were tumultuous. Homes had been destroyed and families displaced by the thousands. Determined to lift his community’s spirits, Lawrence Ching brought the town together by hosting a small contest. That humble, healing act became a beloved neighborhood tradition.

K A U A‘ I

“Right after Hurricane ‘Iniki, my dad said, ‘There’s so much difficulty, let’s do something that makes the kids happy and start a Halloween costume contest. We’ll give the children a dollar each and a bag of candy,’” Ching recollects. “It was his favorite event.” And now, once again, the town has rallied together, only this time over the COVID-19 pandemic. Among the shopping center’s merchants, there’s an exceptional camaraderie. “It’s like family down here and it always has been—but we’re even more like family now that we’ve been through these disasters,” Keubler says. The Spinning Dolphin owner recalls sitting in the courtyard of the mall talking story with fellow merchants when there was no business due to the pandemic. “We just got to know each other even more than we knew each other before.” For 25 years, Michael Ching has been at the helm of the Ching Young Village Shopping Center. “Since 1997. Can you believe that?” he asks me. And since 2020, he’s been navigating the shopping center through the pandemic. “It was really hard,” he admits. Ching worked with his tenants to ensure they remained open throughout the pandemic. At one point, he even lowered the rent

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to ensure the mom-and-pop shops could survive. “We’re family-operated,” he says. It’s that simple. As visitors return to Kaua‘i, they naturally find themselves in Hanalei and the Ching Young Village Shopping Center. “They come in and say, ‘We’re glad you’re still here,’” Kuebler says. “I say, I’m glad I’m here, and I thank Michael Ching.” P

Ching Young Village Shopping Center 5-5190 Kūhiō Highway, Hanalei, chingyoungvillage.com.

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Your Guide to Waimea

Among the pastureland and paniolo, farmers markets, breweries and more thrive in the little town of Waimea on Hawai‘i Island. STORY BY LAUREN OKINAKA

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H AWA I ‘ I I S L A N D

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AIMEA ON HAWAI‘I ISLAND, KNOWN FOR ITS GREEN PASTURES, CATTLE AND COWBOYS, HAS LONG BEEN CONSIDERED PANIOLO (HAWAIIAN COWBOY) COUNTRY. But it’s

photos: island of hawai‘i visitors bureau (ihvb) / elizabeth brentano, courtesy of big island brewhaus

more than that: Today, it’s a popular destination for delicious food, fine arts and local culture. Here are some places you can visit during your trip to this quaint, historic country town.

WAIMEA TOWN MARKET

KAHUĀ RANCH

Waimea Town Market is a popular farmers market located in front of Parker School in the center of town. The market is home to over 40 vendors selling produce, hot food and other goods. Indulge in French pastries from Hawai‘i Tart Co., admire varieties of orchids from Poppas Orchids and enjoy a hot breakfast at Mai Breakfast. In the center of the market is a grassy area with picnic tables for you to relax or eat at.

Established in 1928, Kahuā Ranch in Kamuela offers horseback riding, paniolo barbecue dinners and venues for hosting events. Experience spectacular views of mountains, coastlines, cinder cones and lush pastures while horseback riding at Na‘alapa Stables at Kahuā Ranch. The rides are for everyone, from beginners to experts. You can also reserve a spot for a paniolo barbecue dinner on the farm.

Open Saturdays from 7:30 a.m. to noon, 65-1224 Lindsey Road, Kamuela, waimeatownmarket.com.

KAMUELA FARMERS MARKET Kamuela Farmers Market is also located at Pukalani Stables; it operates on Saturdays. Here, you can purchase fresh produce, trees, plants, prepared foods, cut flowers, popcorn, coffee, handcrafted wood items, local dried fruit and more. The Paniolo Heritage Museum at Pukalani Stables offers free admisOPPOSITE sion on Saturdays. A portion of vendor fees Scenic rolling from the market goes directly to the Paniolo pastures are just one of the many Preservation Society and its mission to prereasons to visit serve, protect and promote Hawai‘i’s paniolo Waimea. heritage. The market also features live music ABOVE every Saturday and leashed pets are allowed. Big Island Brewhaus began selling its locally brewed beers in 2011.

Open Saturdays from 7:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., 67-139 Pukalani Road, Kamuela, kamuelafarmersmarket. com.

Open daily for horseback riding (times vary), 59-564 Kohala Mountain Road, Waimea, kahua-ranch.com.

BIG ISLAND BREWHAUS The Big Island Brewhaus in Waimea started selling its locally brewed beers in 2011. The brewery won a gold medal for its Overboard IPA and two silver medals for its White Mountain Porter and Red Giant at the U.S. Open Beer Championships in 2013. The brewhaus, at an elevation of 2,764 feet, also serves a wide variety of food and has freshly made margaritas, by the bottle and by the glass. Also, due to the COVID-19 pandemic Big Island Brewhaus offers no-contact pickup for food and beverages. Open 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily, 64-1066 Māmalahoa Highway, Kamuela, bigislandbrewhaus.com. SPRING 2 0 22

H A WA I ‘ I I S L A N D

HAWAIIAN STYLE CAFÉ Hawaiian Style Café has been serving local Hawai‘i cuisine since 1993. The menu includes comfort food such as loco mocos (white rice, hamburger, fried egg and gravy), kalbi rib plate lunches and kālua pork (smoked shredded pork). Stop in for breakfast, lunch and dinner, and order almost anything at any time. The portions are large and worth every penny. Open 7 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Mondays to Saturdays and 7 a.m. to noon Sundays, 65-1290 Kawaihae Road, Kamuela, hawaiianstylecafe.us.

ABOVE Waimea Nature Park has the largest collection of variously colored ‘ōhi‘a lehua trees in the state. RIGHT Pâtisserie Nanako’s signature dessert is the raspberry ladybug.

PÂTISSERIE NANAKO

Take a walk through the 10-acre Waimea Nature Park, also known as Ulu Lā‘au. The park has the largest collection of variously colored ‘ōhi‘a lehua trees in the state. It was acquired by the Waimea Outdoor Circle in 1999. Volunteers cleared the area, which was once pastoral land, and planted endemic and indigenous native Hawaiian plants the following year. Make some furry friends, as many locals bring their dogs to this historic park. Entry is free and the park is open seven days a week.

Since opening in January 2021, Pâtisserie Nanako in Waimea has been bustling with customers, many of whom line up hours before the bakery opens at 8 a.m. The family-owned shop serves fresh Japanese-style pastries including pillowy strawberry shortcake, delicate Japanese cheesecake and classic tiramisu, along with Japanese pan (bread) and jelly drinks. Each dessert is made by hand and with fresh ingredients. Pâtisserie Nanako’s signature dessert is a raspberry ladybug— rich chocolate mousse encased in a sweet raspberry glaze with a light chocolate cake base. Nanako Perez-Nava created the dessert when she worked for the Moana Surfrider. The ladybug represents the resort’s nickname, “First Lady of Waikīkī,” (it was the first hotel built on Waikīkī Beach) and also is a symbol of good luck. Now, it’s the logo for Pâtisserie Nanako. P

Open 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. daily, 66-1246 Māmalahoa Highway, Waimea, outdoorcircle.org/waimea. html.

Open 8 a.m. to noon (or until sold out) Tuesdays to Saturdays, 64-1067 Hawai‘i Belt Road, Suite A5, Waimea, @patisserienanako, facebook.com/ patisserienanako.

WAIMEA NATURE PARK

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photos: hawai‘i tourism authority (hta) / kirk aeder, courtesy of pâtisserie nanako

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Readers’ Choice RE

ERS’ CHOICE

T O F HA WAI‘I

YOU VOTED AND THE WINNERS ARE IN! After tallying thousands of ballots this year, we are pleased to announce the winners of our 10 th annual Readers’ Choice Awards. Find out which beaches, hotels, poke shops, lū‘au shows, hiking trails, food trucks, boutiques, snorkeling spots, museums and national parks topped our lists—all chosen by the best readers in the world. (That’s you!).

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VOTED BEST NATIONAL PARK Haleakalā National Park, Maui

All Islands BEST HOTEL

3. Kailua-Kona, Hawai‘i Island

1. Kā‘anapali Beach Resort, Maui

4. Hanalei, Kaua‘i

2. Grand Hyatt Kaua‘i, Kaua‘i

5. Hāna, Maui

3. Grand Wailea Maui, a Waldorf Astoria Resort, Maui

6. Kapa‘a, Kaua‘i

4. Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa, O‘ahu

8. Hale‘iwa, O‘ahu

5. Hilton Hawaiian Village, O‘ahu 6. Hilton Waikoloa Village, Hawai‘i Island

7. Po‘ipū, Kaua‘i 9. Kailua, O‘ahu 10. Lāna‘i City, Lāna‘i

7. Ritz-Carlton, Kapalua, Maui

BEST AIRLINE

8. Four Seasons Resort Hualālai, Hawai‘i Island

1. Hawaiian Airlines 2. Alaska Airlines

9. Halekūlani, O‘ahu

3. Delta Air Lines

10. Four Seasons Resort, O‘ahu

4. United Airlines 5. Southwest Airlines

1. Kā‘anapali Beach, Maui

BEST HISTORIC LANDMARK

2. Hanalei Bay, Kaua‘i

1. Pacific Historic Parks, which includes, Pearl Harbor, USS Arizona Memorial, USS Bowfin, USS Missouri, Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum, O‘ahu

3. Po‘ipū Beach, Kaua‘i 4. Waikīkī Beach, O‘ahu 5. Hāpuna Beach, Hawai‘i Island 6. Lanikai Beach, O‘ahu 7. Mākena Beach, Maui

2. World War II Valor in the Pacific National Monument, O‘ahu

8. Wailea Beach, Maui

3. ‘Iolani Palace, O‘ahu

9. Waimea Bay, O‘ahu

4. Kealakekua Bay State Historical Park, Hawai‘i Island

10. Kailua Beach, O‘ahu BEST ISLAND 1. Maui 2. Kaua‘i 3. Hawai‘i Island 4. O‘ahu 5. Lāna‘i 6. Moloka‘i BEST CITY/TOWN 1. Lahaina, Maui 2. Honolulu, O‘ahu

HA WA I ‘ I M A G A Z I N E

5. King Kamehameha Statue, O‘ahu BEST NATIONAL PARK 1. Haleakalā National Park, Maui 2. Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park, Hawai‘i Island 3. World War II Valor in the Pacific National Monument (including the USS Arizona Memorial), O‘ahu 4. Kalaupapa National Historical Park, Moloka‘i

5. Pu‘uhonua O Hōnaunau National Historical Park, Hawai‘i Island

BEST RESTAURANT 1. Mama’s Fish House Restaurant & Inn, Maui 2. Duke’s, O‘ahu, Maui, Kaua‘i

BEST STATE PARK 1. Waimea Canyon State Park, Kaua‘i 2. ʻIāo Valley State Monument, Maui 3. Diamond Head State Monument, O‘ahu 4. Nāpali Coast State Wilderness Park, Kaua‘i 5. Kōke‘e State Park, Kaua‘i BEST NEW RESTUARANT

3. Roy’s, O‘ahu, Maui, Hawai‘i Island 4. Merriman’s Hawai‘i, O‘ahu, Maui, Kaua‘i, Hawai‘i Island 5. Beach House Restaurant, Kaua‘i BEST BAR OR LOUNGE 1. Duke’s, O‘ahu, Maui, Kaua‘i 2. Monkeypod Kitchen, O‘ahu, Maui

1. Huihui, Maui

3. Lava Lava Beach Club, Hawai‘i Island

2. Bourbon Street, O‘ahu

4. Tahiti Nui, Kaua‘i

3. Kalo, O‘ahu

5. RumFire Waikīkī, O‘ahu

4. Pizza Mamo, O‘ahu 5. Spice Up, O‘ahu

BEST LOCAL BEER 1. Maui Brewing Co. 2. Kona Brewing Co.

photo: getty images

BEST BEACH

2022 RE ADERS’ CHOICE

4. Greenwell Farms, Hawai‘i Island

BEST ALOHA WEAR

5. Hula Daddy Kona Coffee, Hawai‘i Island

2. Tommy Bahama

BEST SWIMWEAR 1. Tommy Bahama 2. Pualani Hawai‘i 3. Pakaloha Hawai‘i 4. Acacia Swimwear 5. Reyn Spooner

1. Hilo Hattie 3. Kāhala 4. Tori Richard 5. Reyn Spooner BEST JEWELRY 1. Maui Divers Jewelry 2. Nā Hoku 3. Honolulu Jewelry Co. 4. Paradise Collection

BEST MALASADA

4. Aloha Beer Co.

1. Leonard’s Bakery, O‘ahu

5. Big Island Brewhaus

2. T. Komoda Store & Bakery, Maui

BEST LOCAL SPIRIT OR WINE

3. Kaua‘i Bakery, Kaua‘i

1. Kōloa Rum

4. Punalu‘u Bake Shop, Hawai‘i Island

2. MauiWine 3. Ocean Vodka 4. Kō Hana Rum 5. Volcano Winery BEST MAI TAI 1. Duke’s, O‘ahu, Maui, Kaua‘i 2. Mai Tai Bar at The Royal Hawaiian, O‘ahu 3. Mama’s Fish House Restaurant & Inn, Maui 4. Monkeypod Kitchen, O‘ahu, Maui 5. Tahiti Nui, Kaua‘i

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2022

3. Kaua‘i Beer Co.

5. Denny Wong Designs

FIRST PLACE

ST O AI F HAW

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5. Pipeline Bake Shop & Creamery, O‘ahu BEST LOCO MOCO 1. Zippy’s, O‘ahu, Maui, Hawai‘i Island 2. Rainbow Drive-In, O‘ahu 3. Hawaiian Style Café, Hawai‘i Island 4. Koko Head Café, O‘ahu 5. Café 100, Hawai‘i Island

Definitive Hawaiian fashion, foods, gifts, and jewelry for over fifty-eight years. HAWAI‘I ISLAND

Kona Inn Shopping Village

KAUA‘I

Lihue Town

BEST COFFEE GROWER 1. Kaua‘i Coffee Co., Kaua‘i 2. MauiGrown Coffee, Maui 3. Mountain Thunder Coffee Plantation, Hawai‘i Island

MAUI Whaler’s Village, Kaanapali

O‘AHU

Ala Moana Center

Stores open daily. See our website for store hours & location info. SPRING 2 0 22

Mahalo #1 Value Hotel #1 Best Boutique Hotel #1 Best Resort for a Wedding #1 Best for Families

PREMIUM ROOMS N OW AVA I L A B L E

#1 Best for Romance #1 Best Hotel Pool #5 Best Luxury Resort #5 Best Restaurant for Huihui

K B H M AU I . c o m ( 8 0 8 ) 6 61 - 0 0 1 1

2022 RE ADERS’ CHOICE

O‘ahu BEST LUXURY RESORT

3. Outrigger Waikīkī Beach Resort

1. Turtle Bay Resort

4. Turtle Bay Resort

2. The Royal Hawaiian

6. Regency on Beachwalk Waikīkī by Outrigger

8. Embassy Suites by Hilton Waikīkī Beach Walk

5. Hale Koa Hotel

7. The Imperial Hawai‘i Resort

9. ‘Alohilani Resort Waikīkī Beach

3. Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikīkī Beach Resort

6. Embassy Suites by Hilton Waikīkī Beach Walk

8. Aqua Palms Waikīkī 9. Park Shore Waikīkī Hotel

10. Four Seasons Resort O‘ahu at Ko ‘Olina

4. Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa

7. Ala Moana Hotel

5. Halekūlani

8. Waikīkī Beachcomber by Outrigger

10. Lotus Honolulu at Diamond Head

BEST HOTEL FOR ROMANCE

6. Four Seasons Resort O‘ahu at Ko ‘Olina 7. Moana Surfrider

9. Marriott’s Ko ‘Olina Beach Club 10. Aston Waikīkī Beach Hotel

8. The Imperial Hawai‘i Resort 9. Marriott’s Ko ‘Olina Beach Club 10. The Kāhala Hotel & Resort

1. The Royal Hawaiian BEST HOTEL OR RESORT FOR FAMILIES 1. Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa

BEST BOUTIQUE HOTEL 1. Halekūlani 2. The Kāhala Hotel and Resort

BEST VALUE HOTEL OR RESORT

3. The Surfjack Hotel & Swim Club

1. The Imperial Hawai‘i Resort

4. Queen Kapi‘olani Hotel

2. Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikīkī Beach Resort

5. The Modern Honolulu

2. Turtle Bay Resort 3. Four Seasons Resort O‘ahu at Ko ‘Olina

2. Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikīkī Beach Resort

4. Moana Surfrider

3. The Imperial Hawai‘i Resort 4. Turtle Bay Resort

6. Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikīkī Beach Resort

5. Marriott’s Ko ‘Olina Beach Club

7. The Imperial Hawai‘i Resort

6. Outrigger Reef Waikīkī Beach Resort

8. Marriott’s Ko ‘Olina Beach Club

7. Hale Koa Hotel

10. Outrigger Reef Waikīkī Beach Resort

5. Halekūlani

9. The Kāhala Hotel & Resort

VOTED BEST HOTEL FOR ROMANCE

photo: aaron k. yoshino

The Royal Hawaiian

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2022 RE ADERS’ CHOICE

BEST HOTEL OR RESORT SPA

BEST HOTEL OR RESORT POOL

4. Marriott’s Ko ‘Olina Beach Club

1. The Kāhala Spa at The Kāhala Hotel & Resort

1. Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa

5. Wyndham at Waikīkī Beach Walk

2. Moana Lani Spa at Moana Surfrider 3. Spa Halekūlani at Halekūlani 4. Mandara Spa at Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikīkī Beach Resort 5. Laniwai at Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa 6. Naupaka Spa & Wellness Centre at Four Seasons Resort O‘ahu at Ko ‘Olina 7. Abhasa Waikīkī at The Royal Hawaiian

2. Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikīkī Beach Resort 3. Sheraton Waikīkī Hotel 4. Turtle Bay Resort

BEST BED & BREAKFAST OR INN

5. Marriott’s Ko ‘Olina Beach Club

1. Diamond Head B&B

6. Hale Koa Hotel

2. Mānoa Valley Inn

7. Four Seasons O‘ahu Resort at Ko ‘Olina

3. Hula Breeze B&B

8. Halekūlani

5. Sheffield House B&B

9. The Imperial Hawai‘i Resort 10. Outrigger Waikīkī Beach Resort

8. Infinity Massage & Spa at Outrigger Waikīkī Beach Resort

BEST VACATION TIMESHARE

9. Nalu Kinetic Spa at Turtle Bay Resort

2. Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa

10. The Spa at Trump International Hotel Waikīkī

4. Manu Mele B&B

1. The Imperial Hawai‘i Resort 3. Hilton Grand Vacation Club at Hilton Hawaiian Village Beach Resort

BEST BEACH 1. Waikīkī Beach 2. Lanikai Beach 3. Waimea Bay 4. Kailua Beach Park 5. Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve 6. Sunset Beach 7. Waimānalo Beach 8. Ko ‘Olina Lagoons 9. Sandy Beach Park 10. Bellows Field Beach Park BEST BOTANICAL GARDEN 1. Waimea Valley 2. Ho‘omaluhia Botanical Garden

BEST EXTREME TOUR

3. Foster Botanical Garden

1. Kualoa Ranch

4. Koko Crater Botanical Garden

2. Skydive Hawai‘i

5. Wahiawā Botanical Garden

3. Diamond Head Parasail 4. Climb Works Keana Farms

BEST CAMPGROUND

5. Xtreme Parasail

1. Waimānalo Beach Park

808-498-8156 1953 S Beretania St #5d, Honolulu, HI 96826

www.ParadiseCollection.com 38

HA WA I ‘ I M A G A Z I N E

BEST FARM TOUR

3. Mālaekahana Beach Campground

1. Dole Plantation

4. Kualoa Regional Park

3. Kō Hana Distillers

5. Kahua Nui-Makai Campsites

2. Kualoa Ranch 4. Tropical Farms Macadamia Nuts

BEST DINNER CRUISE OR SUNSET SAIL

5. Kahuku Farms

1. Star of Honolulu

BEST GOLF COURSE

2. Na Hōkū II Catamaran 3. Sunset Dinner Cruises & Boat Charters 4. Maita‘i Catamaran 5. Atlantis Adventure Cruises

1. Turtle Bay Golf Courses 2. Ko ‘Olina Golf Club 3. Ala Wai Golf Course

photo: aaron k. yoshino

Celebrate Mom this Mother’s Day with Paradise Collection Jewelry

2. Bellows Field Beach Park

VOTED BEST SNORKELING SPOT

2022 RE ADERS’ CHOICE

Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve

4. Hawaiʻi Kai Golf Course

3. ‘Aiea Loop Trail

BEST LŪ‘AU

BEST FISHING CHARTER

5. Mākaha Valley Golf Course

4. Kamanaiki Ridge Trail

1. Paradise Cove Lū‘au

1. O‘ahu Charter Sport Fishing

5. Kuliouou Ridge Trail

2. Ali‘i Lū‘au at the Polynesian Cultural Center

2. Hawai‘i Deep Sea Fishing

3. Germaine’s Lū‘au

4. Ruckus Sportfishing and Diving

BEST GUIDED TOUR 1. Pearl Harbor National Memorial 2. Polynesian Cultural Center 3. ‘Iolani Palace 4. Kualoa Ranch 5. Roberts Hawai‘i BEST HELICOPTER TOUR 1. Blue Hawaiian Helicopters 2. Magnum Helicopters 3. Paradise Helicopters 4. Mauna Loa Helicopter Tours

BEST SURF SPOT 1. Hale‘iwa Beach Park 2. Waikīkī Beach 3. Diamond Head 4. Pua‘ena Point Beach Park 5. White Plains Beach BEST LIVE SHOW 1. Paradise Cove Lū‘au 2. Magic of Polynesia 3. Blue Note Hawai‘i 4. Hā: Breath of Life 5. Rock-A-Hula

BEST HIKING TRAIL 1. Diamond Head Summit Trail 2. Makapu‘u Point Lighthouse Trail

4. Hale Koa Hotel Lū‘au 5. Chief’s Lū‘au at Sea Life Park BEST MUSEUM 1. Bishop Museum 2. Pearl Harbor National Memorial 3. ‘Iolani Palace 4. Honolulu Museum of Art 5. Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum BEST SNORKELING SPOT 1. Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve 2. Shark’s Cove 3. Kahe Point Beach Park (Electric Beach)

3. Maggie Joe Sport Fishing 5. Strikeology Sports Fishing BEST ART GALLERY 1. Hale‘iwa Art Gallery 2. Wyland Galleries 3. Greenroom Gallery Waikīkī 4. Clark Little Gallery 5. Pictures Plus BEST CLOTHING/FASHION BOUTIQUE OR STORE 1. Olive Boutique 2. Fighting Eel 3. Kealopiko 4. Allison Izu 5. Sig on Smith

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2022 RE ADERS’ CHOICE

BEST STORE FOR SOUVENIRS

BEST RESORT FOR A WEDDING

BEST RESTAURANT

1. Hilo Hattie

1. The Royal Hawaiian

1. Roy’s Waikīkī

2. Dole Plantation

2. Turtle Bay Resort

2. Hy’s Steak House

3. Island Sole/CocoNēnē Hawaiʻi

3. Four Seasons Resort O‘ahu at Ko ‘Olina

3. Merriman’s Honolulu

4. SoHa Living 5. Sand People BEST SURF INSTRUCTION CO. 1. Waikīkī Beach Services 2. North Shore Surf Girls 3. Big Wave Dave Surf Co. 4. Hans Hedemann Surf School 5. Faith Surf School BEST BEACH GEAR OR WATER GEAR RENTAL

4. The Kāhala Hotel & Resort

4. Signature Prime Steak & Seafood

5. Moana Surfrider

5. Orchids

BEST WEDDING VENUE (NOT A BEACH OR RESORT)

BEST CHEAP EATS

1. Kualoa Ranch

2. L&L Hawaiian Barbecue

2. Ha‘ikū Gardens Weddings

3. Helena’s Hawaiian Food

3. Ko‘olau Ballrooms and Conference Center

4. Nico’s Pier 38

4. Dillingham Ranch 5. Loulu Palm

1. Zippy’s

5. Marukame Udon BEST BAR OR LOUNGE

1. Snorkel Bob’s

1. Duke’s Waikīkī

2. Waikīkī Beach Services

2. Maui Brewing Co.

3. Surf N Sea

3. House Without a Key

4. Go Bananas 5. Aloha Beach Services BEST SHOPPING CENTER OR MALL 1. Ala Moana Center 2. International Market Place

CONTINUED ON PAGE 42

VOTED BEST SHOPPING CENTER OR MALL Ala Moana Center

3. Pearlridge Center 4. Kāhala Mall 5. Ka Makana Ali‘i BEST SURF SHOP 1. T&C Surf Hawai‘i 2. North Shore Surf Shop 3. Local Motion Hawai‘i 4. Surf N Sea 5. Aloha Board Shop BEST TRANSPORTATION SERVICE 1. TheBus 2. Roberts Hawai‘i 3. Waikīkī Trolley 5. Biki Hawaiʻi

HA WA I ‘ I M A G A Z I N E

photo: david croxford

4. Uber

! o l a h a

Your time is your most valuable asset, spend it making memories

#1 Vacation Timeshare #1 Value Hotel or Resort Mahalo for choosing The Imperial Hawaii Resort! www.imperialofwaikiki.com

LOCATED IN THE HEART OF WAIKIKI!

2022 RE ADERS’ CHOICE CONTINUED FROM PAGE 40

4. RumFire Waikīkī

3. Teddy’s Bigger Burgers

5. Bar Leather Apron

4. Ku ‘Āina Burger 5. Chubbies Burgers

BEST BAKERY 1. Leonard’s Bakery 2. Liliha Bakery 3. Kamehameha Bakery 4. Ted’s Bakery 5. Sugarlina Bakeshop BEST BREAKFAST OR BRUNCH 1. Eggs ‘n Things 2. Liliha Bakery 3. Cinnamon’s 4. Koko Head Café 5. Café Kaila BEST BURGER 1. Cheeseburger in Paradise 2. Rainbow Drive-in

HA WA I ‘ I M A G A Z I N E

BEST FARM-TO-TABLE RESTAURANT 1. Monkeypod Kitchen by Merriman 2. Merriman’s Honolulu 3. Kahumana Organic Farm & Café 4. Moku Kitchen 5. Mud Hen Water BEST FOOD TRUCK 1. Giovanni’s Shrimp Truck 2. Fumi’s Kahuku Shrimp Truck 3. Big Wave Shrimp 4. Chubbies Burgers 5. Flyin’ ʻAhi

BEST HOTEL OR RESORT RESTAURANT 1. Duke’s Waikīkī at the Outrigger Waikīkī Beach Resort 2. House Without a Key at the Halekūlani 3. Morimoto at ‘Alohilani 4. The Beachhouse at the Moana Surfrider 5. Plumeira Beach House at The Kāhala Hotel & Resort BEST TRADITIONAL HAWAIIAN RESTAURANT 1. Helena’s Hawaiian Food 2. Waiāhole Poi Factory 3. Highway Inn 4. Haili’s Hawaiian Food 5. Yama’s Fish Market

VOTED BEST BAKERY Leonard’s Bakery

BEST POKE

1. Marukame Udon

2. ‘Ono Seafood

2. Shiro’s Saimin Haven 3. Palace Saimin

photo: getty images, adobestock

BEST NOODLE, SAIMIN OR RAMEN

1. Foodland

VOTED BEST FOOD TRUCK Giovanni’s Shrimp Truck

3. Nico’s Fish Market

4. Shige’s Saimin Stand

4. Tanioka’s Seafood and Catering

5. Bario Ramen

5. Fresh Catch

BEST PIZZA

BEST HAPPY HOUR

1. Big Kahuna’s Pizza

1. Duke’s Waikīkī

2. Round Table Pizza

2. Maui Brewing Co.

3. Pieology Pizzeria

3. Kona Brewing Co.

4. J. Dolan’s

4. Tiki’s Grill & Bar

5. Boston Pizza

5. The Chart House

BEST PLATE LUNCH

BEST SEAFOOD RESTAURANT

1. Rainbow Drive-In

1. 53 By The Sea

2. L&L Hawaiian BBQ

2. Duke’s Waikīkī

3. Kono’s

3. Hale‘iwa Joe’s

4. Nico’s Pier 38

5. Alicia’s Market

5. Roy’s Waikīkī

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2022 RE ADERS’ CHOICE

VOTED BEST SHAVE ICE STAND OR STORE Matsumoto Shave Ice

BEST SHAVE ICE STAND OR STORE 1. Matsumoto Shave Ice 2. Waiola Shave Ice 3. Island Vintage Shave Ice 4. Uncle Clay’s House of Pure Aloha 5. Shimazu Shave Ice BEST STEAK HOUSE 1. Ruth’s Chris Steak House 2. Roy’s Waikīkī 3. Hy’s Steak House 4. Bali Steak & Seafood 5. D.K Steak House

B LE SSE D i nH I . c o m Created & Cultivated in Hawaii with ALOHA

BLESSED sold at The Blessed Life Locations: PEARLRIDGE CENTER (UPTOWN) 98-1005 Moanalua Road / Aiea, Hawaii 96701 / 808-376-0978

WINDWARD MALL (CENTER COURT) 46-056 Kamehameha Highway / Kaneohe, Hawaii 96744 / 808-234-1080

KA MAKANA ALI‘I (CENTER COURT) 91-5431 Kapolei Parkway / Kapolei, Hawaii 96707 / 808-237-3111

@blessedinhawaii 44

HA WA I ‘ I M A G A Z I N E

2022 RE ADERS’ CHOICE

Maui

BEST LUXURY RESORT

1. Grand Wailea Maui, A Waldorf Astoria Resort 2. The Westin Maui Resort and Spa, Kā‘anapali 3. The Westin Kā‘anapali Ocean Resort Villas 4. Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea 5. Kā‘anapali Beach Hotel 6. The Ritz-Carlton, Kapalua 7. Marriott’s Maui Ocean Club 8. Fairmont Kea Lani

BEST HOTEL OR RESORT FOR FAMILIES 1. Kā‘anapali Beach Hotel 2. Royal Lahaina Resort 3. Grand Wailea Maui, A Waldorf Astoria Resort 4. Marriott’s Maui Ocean Club 5. The Westin Kā‘anapali Ocean Resort Villas

2. Royal Lahaina Resort 3. Grand Wailea Maui, A Waldorf Astoria Resort 4. The Westin Maui Resort and Spa, Kā‘anapali 5. Hyatt Regency Maui Resort and Spa 6. Sheraton Maui Resort & Spa 7. Marriott’s Maui Ocean Club

6. Sheraton Maui Resort & Spa

8. The Ritz Carlton, Kapalua

7. Hyatt Regency Maui Resort and Spa

9. Fairmont Kea Lani

9. Andaz Maui at Wailea Resort

8. The Westin Maui Resort and Spa, Kā‘anapali

10. Royal Lahaina Resort

9. Napili Kai Beach Resort 10. Honua Kai Resort & Spa

BEST VALUE HOTEL OR RESORT

10. Wailea Beach Resort by Marriott BEST BED & BREAKFAST OR INN

BEST LICENSED VACATION RENTAL 1. Kapalua Bay Villas 2. Maui Condo and Home 3. Hale Kai Oceanfront Condominiums 4. Ho‘olei at Grand Wailea 5. Vacasa, previously Condominium Rentals Hawai‘i BEST VACATION TIMESHARE PROPERTY 1. The Westin Kā‘anapali Ocean Resort Villas 2. Marriott’s Maui Ocean Club

1. The Plantation Inn

3. Diamond Resorts & Hotels, Kā‘anapali Beach Club

1. Kā‘anapali Beach Hotel

BEST HOTEL FOR ROMANCE

2. Kula Lodge

4. Honua Kai Resort & Spa

2. Royal Lahaina Resort

1. Kā‘anapali Beach Hotel

3. Pā‘ia Inn

5. Kama‘ole Sands

3. Sheraton Maui Resort & Spa

2. Royal Lahaina Resort

4. Lumeria Maui

4. The Westin Kā‘anapali Ocean Resort Villas

3. Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea

5. Mangolani Inn

5. Napili Kai Beach Resort

4. Grand Wailea Maui, A Waldorf Astoria Resort

6. Hyatt Regency Maui Resort and Spa

5. The Ritz-Carlton, Kapalua

7. Grand Wailea Maui, A Waldorf Astoria Resort

6. Hyatt Regency Maui Resort and Spa

8. The Westin Maui Resort and Spa, Kā‘anapali

7. Fairmont Kea Lani

9. Maui Beach Hotel

9. Hāna-Maui Resort, previously Travaasa Hāna

10. Aston Kā‘anapali Shores

VOTED BEST LUXURY RESORT Grand Wailea Maui, A Waldorf Astoria Resort

8. Andaz Maui at Wailea Resort

10. Napili Kai Beach Resort BEST BOUTIQUE HOTEL 1. Kā‘anapali Beach Hotel

BEST HOTEL OR RESORT SPA

2. Napili Kai Beach Resort

1. Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea

3. Fairmont Kea Lani photos: david croxford, getty images

4. Andaz Maui at Wailea Resort 5. Hāna-Maui Resort, previously Travaasa Hāna 6. Hotel Wailea, Relais & Châteaux 7. Pā‘ia Inn 8. Montage Kapalua Bay 9. Mana Kai Resort 10. The Plantation Inn

2. Sheraton Maui Resort & Spa 3. The Ritz-Carlton Spa, Kapalua 4. Spa Grande at Grand Wailea Maui, A Waldorf Astoria Resort 5. Spa Helani at The Westin Kā‘anapali Ocean Resort Villas BEST HOTEL OR RESORT POOL 1. Kā‘anapali Beach Hotel

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2022 RE ADERS’ CHOICE

BEST BEACH

3. Pride of Maui

BEST GUIDED TOUR

1. Kā‘anapali Beach (aka Black Rock Beach)

4. Ali‘i Nui Sailing Charters

1. Pacific Whale Foundation

5. Atlantis Cruises

2. Hāna Tours of Maui

2. Mākena Beach (aka Big Beach) 3. Wailea Beach 4. Nāpili Bay 5. Kapalua Bay BEST BOTANICAL GARDEN 1. Maui Tropical Plantation 2. Maui Nui Botanical Gardens 3. Kula Botanical Garden 4. Ali‘i Kula Lavender 5. Garden of Eden Arboretum BEST CAMPGROUND 1. Haleakalā National Park 2. Wai‘anapanapa State Park Campground 3. Kīpahulu Campground 4. Camp Olowalu BEST DINNER OR SUNSET CRUISE 1. Pacific Whale Foundation Maui Sunset Dinner Cruise

BEST EXTREME TOUR 1. Blue Hawaiian Helicopters 2. Skyline Eco-Adventures 3. Flying Hawaiian Zipline 4. Rappel Maui

5. Hale Hō‘ike‘ike at the Bailey House

3. Roberts Hawai‘i Road to Hāna

BEST SURF SPOT

4. Valley Isle Excursions Road to Hāna

1. Kā‘anapali Beach

5. Kai Kanani Sailing

3. Launiupoko Beach Park

2. Lahaina Breakwall 4. Puamana Beach Park

BEST HELICOPTER TOUR

5. Kīhei Cove Park

5. Kapalua Ziplines

1. Blue Hawaiian Helicopters 2. Air Maui Helicopter Tours

BEST SNORKELING SPOT

BEST FARM TOUR

3. Maverick Helicopters

1. Molokini Crater

4. Pacific Helicopter Tours

2. Kāʻanapali Beach (aka Black Rock Beach)

1. Maui Tropical Plantation 2. Ali‘i Kula Lavender 3. Surfing Goat Dairy 4. Hāna Gold

5. Sunshine Helicopters

3. Kapalua Bay BEST HIKING TRAIL

5. ‘Ono Organic Farms

1. Haleakalā National Park

BEST GOLF COURSE

3. Kapalua Coastal Trail

1. Kā‘anapali Golf Course

4. Twin Falls Hike 5. Pīpīwai Trail

3. Wailea Golf Club

BEST WATERFALL HIKE

4. Kāhili Golf Course

1. ‘Īao Valley State Park

5. Maui Nui Golf Club

2. Twin Falls Hike 3. Pīpīwai Trail to Waimoku Falls

VOTED BEST WATERFALL HIKE ‘Īao Valley State Park

5. Maluaka Beach

2. ‘Īao Valley State Park

2. Kapalua Golf, The Plantation Course/Bay Course

2. Trilogy Excursions

4. Honolua Bay

BEST LIVE SHOW 1. Black Rock Cliff Dive Ceremony at the Sheraton Maui Resort & Spa 2. George Kahumoku Jr.’s “Slack Key Show” 3. Warren and Annabelle’s Magic Comedy Show BEST LŪ‘AU 1. Old Lahaina Lū‘au 2. Royal Lahaina Lū‘au

BEST SNORKELING/SCUBA/ SURF INSTRUCTION 1. Maui Dive Shop 2. Snorkel Bob’s 3. Boss Frog’s 4. Maui Diving— Scuba & Snorkel Center 5. Maui Surfer Girls BEST ZIPLINE 1. Maui Zipline Co. 2. Kapalua Ziplines 3. Flying Hawaiian Zipline 4. Skyline Hawai‘i 5. Jungle Zipline BEST FISHING CHARTER 1. Fish Maui 2. Maui Fun Charters 3. Luckey Strike Charters

3. Drums of the Pacific Lū‘au

4. Start Me Up Sportfishing Charters

4. Feast at Lele

5. All About Fish

5. The Grand Lū‘au at Honua‘ula 1. Lahaina Galleries

1. Maui Ocean Center

2. Bill Wyland Galleries

2. Lahaina Heritage Museum

3. Maui Hands Art Gallery

3. Whalers Village Museum

4. Hui No‘eau Visual Arts Center

4. Baldwin Home Museum

5. Curtis Wilson Cost Gallery CONTINUED ON PAGE 48

HA WA I ‘ I M A G A Z I N E

photo: adobestock

BEST ART GALLERY BEST MUSEUM

The ‘Ohana of Na Hoaloha Ekolu would like to thank all of our patrons for your continued support over the years, and especially those who selected our various businesses as being “No Ka ‘Oi” (the Best) for this year. We continue to share Aloha through unique experiences with residents and visitors based on Hawaiian values.

ERS’ CHOICE

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2022 FI

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BEST NOODLE

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ERS’ CHOICE

FRESH HOUSE MADE NOODLES & ASIAN SPECIALTIES

1285 FRONT STREET

808.667.5400

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2022

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WWW.STARNOODLE.COM

- BEST BAKERY -

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CONTINUED FROM PAGE 46

BEST CLOTHING/FASHION BOUTIQUE OR STORE

BEST SHOPPING CENTER OR MALL

BEST RESORT FOR A WEDDING

4. Merriman’s Kapalua

1. Kā‘anapali Beach Hotel

5. Huihui

1. Holoholo Surf

1. Whaler’s Village

2. Driftwood Maui

2. Lahaina Cannery Mall

2. Grand Wailea Maui, A Waldorf Astoria Resort

3. Mahina

3. The Shops at Wailea

BEST BAR OR LOUNGE

4. Keani Hawai‘i

4. Queen Ka‘ahamanu Center

5. Nuage Bleu

5. Pi‘ilani Village Shopping Center

BEST STORE FOR SOUVENIRS

BEST SURF SHOP

1. Hilo Hattie

1. Honolua Surf Co.

2. Maui Swap Meet

2. Maui Surfboards

3. Maui Hands Art Gallery

3. Hi-Tech Surf Sports

4. Beachbumz Tiki and Gift Shop

4. Second Wind Maui

5. Maui Soap Co.

5. Foam Co.

BEST BEACH GEAR OR WATER GEAR RENTAL

BEST TRANSPORTATION SERVICE

1. Maui Dive Shop

1. Kā‘anapali Trolley

2. Snorkel Bob’s

2. Maui Bus

3. Boss Frogs

3. Roberts Hawai‘i

4. The Snorkel Store

4. Uber

5. Auntie Snorkel

5. ‘Akina Tours & Transportation

3. Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea 4. The Ritz-Carlton, Kapalua 5. Andaz Maui at Wailea Resort BEST WEDDING VENUE (NOT A BEACH OR RESORT) 1. Maui Tropical Plantation 2. Merriman’s Kapalua 3. Olowalu Plantation House 4. Maui Dragonfruit Farm

1. Hula Grill Barefoot Bar 2. Monkeypod Kitchen by Merriman 3. Down the Hatch 4. South Shore Tiki Lounge 5. Lehua Lounge BEST HOTEL OR RESORT RESTAURANT 1. Duke’s Beach House at Honua Kai Resort & Spa

5. Ha‘ikū Mill

2. Humuhumunukunukuāpua‘a at the Grand Wailea

BEST RESTAURANT

3. The Banyan Tree at The Ritz-Carlton, Kapalua

1. Mama’s Fish House Restaurant & Inn 2. Lahaina Grill 3. Roy’s Kā‘anapali

4. Nick’s Fishmarket at the Fairmont Kea Lani 5. The Restaurant at Hotel Wailea

Mahalo FOR VOTING US AS THE

BEST INN

2022 RE ADERS’ CHOICE

BEST PLATE LUNCH

1. Sunrise Café

BEST NOODLE, SAIMIN OR RAMEN

2. Cool Cat Café

1. Star Noodle

2. Takamiya Market

3. Sugar Beach Bake Shop

3. 808 Deli

2. Tin Roof Maui

3. Okazuya & Deli Honokōwai

4. T. Komoda Store & Bakery

4. Sam Sato’s

3. Ramen Ya

4. Kū‘au Store

5. Maui Tacos

4. Sam Sato’s

5. Waikapū on 30

BEST BAKERY

BEST CHEAP EATS

1. Leoda’s Kitchen and Pie Shop 2. Maui Pie

5. Home Maid Bakery

1. Tin Roof Maui

5. Da Best Pho & Vietnamese BEST BREAKFAST 1. Huihui, Kā‘anapali Beach Hotel 2. Duke’s Beach House Maui 3. The Gazebo Restaurant 4. Sunrise Café 5. Kīhei Caffe

BEST FARM-TO-TABLE RESTAURANT

BEST POKE BEST BANANA BREAD

1. South Maui Fish Co.

1. Mama’s Fish House Restaurant & Inn

1. Halfway to Hāna

2. Foodland

2. Hāli‘imalie General Store

2. Leoda’s Kitchen and Pie Shop

3. Tamura’s Market

3. Aunty Sandy’s Banana Bread

4. Takamiya Market

4. Maui Bread Co.

5. Eskimo Candy Café

3. Merriman’s Maui

5. Julia’s Banana Bread BEST BURGER 1. Cheeseburger in Paradise 2. Hula Grill 3. Cool Cat Café 4. Teddy’s Bigger Burgers 5. Stewz Maui Burgers

BEST FOOD TRUCK 1. Maui Fresh Streatery 2. Geste Shrimp Truck 3. Kina‘ole Grill Food Truck 4. Thai Mee Up 5. Dino’s Gourmet On-The-Go

BEST HAPPY HOUR BEST PIZZA

1. Maui Brewing Co.

1. Lahaina Pizza Co.

2. Lahaina Grill

2. Flatbread Co.

3. Kimo’s Maui

3. Pizza Madness Maui

4. Roy’s Kā‘anapali

4. Shaka Sandwich & Pizza

5. Ruth’s Chris Steak House

5. Dollie’s Pub & Café

Advance online ticket purchase required | mauioceancenter.com

2022 RE ADERS’ CHOICE

BEST SEAFOOD RESTAURANT 1. Mama’s Fish House Restaurant & Inn 2. Lahaina Grill 3. Lahaina Fish Co. 4. Pā‘ia Fish Market 5. Kimo’s Maui BEST SHAVE ICE STAND OR STORE 1. Ululani’s Hawaiian Shave Ice

Kaua‘i BEST LUXURY RESORT

2. Hanalei Bay Resort

1. Grand Hyatt Kaua‘i Resort & Spa

3. Waimea Plantation Cottages

2. 1 Hotel Hanalei Bay, previously Princeville Resort

5. Royal Sonesta Kaua‘i Resort, previously Marriott Kaua‘i

3. Kōloa Landing Resort at Po‘ipū

2. Halfway to Hāna

4. The Westin Princeville Ocean Resort Villas

3. Local Boys Shave Ice Maui

5. Marriott’s Waiohai Beach Club

4. Surfing Monkey Hawaiian Shave Ice

6. Sheraton Kaua‘i Resort

5. Breakwall Shave Ice Co.

7. Koa Kea Hotel & Resort at Po‘ipū Beach 8. The Cliffs at Princeville

BEST STEAK HOUSE

9. Kaua‘i Shores Hotel

1. Lahaina Grill

10. Wyndham Bali Hai

2. Roy’s Kā‘anapali

4. Kaua‘i Beach Resort

6. Marriott’s Kaua‘i Beach Club 7. Hilton Garden Inn Kaua‘i Wailua Bay

4. Koa Kea Hotel & Resort at Po‘ipū Beach 5. Royal Sonesta Kaua‘i Resort, previously Marriott Kaua‘i BEST HOTEL OR RESORT FOR FAMILIES 1. Grand Hyatt Kaua‘i Resort & Spa

8. Kiahuna Plantation Resort Kaua‘i by Outrigger

2. 1 Hotel Hanalei Bay, previously Princeville Resort

9. Sheraton Kaua‘i Resort

3. Marriott’s Waiohai Beach Club

10. Sheraton Kaua‘i Coconut Beach Resort

4. Royal Sonesta Kaua‘i Resort, previously Marriott Kaua‘i

BEST BOUTIQUE HOTEL 1. Hanalei Bay Resort

3. Ruth’s Chris Steak House

BEST VALUE HOTEL OR RESORT

2. Waimea Plantation Cottages

4. Kimo’s Maui

1. Kaua‘i Shores Hotel

3. Kaua‘i Shores Hotel

5. The Westin Princeville Ocean Resort Villas 6. Hanalei Bay Resort 7. Waimea Plantation Cottages 8. Sheraton Kaua‘i Resort

HA WA I ‘ I M A G A Z I N E

CHOICE A W

2022

RS’

ST O AI F HAW

5. DUO Steak and Seafood

‘I

2022 RE ADERS’ CHOICE

9. Kiahuna Plantation Resort Kaua‘i by Outrigger

BEST BEACH

BEST GOLF COURSE

10. Aston Islander on the Beach

1. Po‘ipū Beach

1. Princeville Makai Golf Club

2. Hanalei Bay

2. Po‘ipū Bay Golf Course

3. ‘Anini Beach

3. The Ocean Course at Hokuala

4. Mākua Beach (aka Tunnels Beach)

4. Kukuiolono Park & Golf Course

BEST HOTEL FOR ROMANCE 1. Grand Hyatt Kaua‘i Resort & Spa 2. 1 Hotel Hanalei Bay, previously Princeville Resort 3. Hanalei Bay Resort 4. Waimea Plantation Cottages 5. The Westin Princeville Ocean Resort Villas 6. Koa Kea Hotel & Resort at Po‘ipū Beach

5. Kē‘ē Beach BEST BOTANICAL GARDEN 1. Allerton Garden 2. Princeville Botanical Gardens 3. Na ‘Āina Kai Botanical Gardens & Sculpture Park 4. Limahuli Garden & Preserve

7. Royal Sonesta Kaua‘i Resort, previously Marriott Kaua‘i

5. Smith’s Tropical Paradise

8. Sheraton Kaua‘i Resort

BEST CAMPGROUND

9. Kiahuna Plantation Resort Kaua‘i by Outrigger

1. Nāpali Coast State Wilderness Park

10. The Cliffs at Princeville

2. Kōke‘e State Park 3. ‘Anini Beach

BEST HOTEL OR RESORT SPA 1. Anara Spa at Grand Hyatt Kaua‘i Resort & Spa 2. Sheraton Kaua‘i Resort and Spa 3. The Spa at Koa Kea Hotel & Resort at Po‘ipū Beach 4. Alexander Spa & Salon at Royal Sonesta Kaua‘i Resort

BEST DINNER CRUISE OR SUNSET SAIL 1. Capt. Andy’s Sailing Adventures

BEST EXTREME TOUR

2. Hale Kua Kaua‘i Bed & Breakfast

1. Blue Hawaiian Helicopters

3. Hale Ho‘o Maha Bed & Breakfast

3. Capt. Andy’s Sailing Adventures

3. The Point at Po‘ipū (Diamond Resort) 4. The Westin Princeville Ocean Resort Villas 5. Hanalei Bay Resort

2. Kaua‘i Backcountry Adventures 3. Capt. Andy’s Sailing Adventures

BEST LIVE SHOW (NOT A LŪ‘AU) 1. Tahiti Nui Live Music 2. McMaster Slack Key Concert 3. South Pacific Dinner Theatre 4. Larry Rivera

4. Blue Hawaiian Helicopters

BEST LŪ‘AU

5. Allerton Garden

1. Smith’s Family Garden Lū‘au 2. Grand Hyatt Kaua‘i Lū‘au

BEST HELICOPTER TOUR 1. Blue Hawaiian Helicopters 2. Island Helicopters 3. Jack Harter Helicopters 4. Sunshine Helicopters 5. Safari Helicopters BEST HIKING TRAIL 1. Waimea Canyon Trail to Waipo‘o Falls

3. Lū‘au Kalamakū 4. Ali‘i Lū‘au at Sheraton Kaua‘i Resort 5. Tahiti Nui Lū‘au BEST MUSEUM 1. Kaua‘i Museum 2. Grove Farm Sugar Plantation Museum 3. Kōke‘e Natural History Museum

2. Kuilau Ridge Trail

4. Holo Holo Charters

1. Hanalei Surfboard House

2. Marriott’s Kaua‘i Beach Club

1. Lydgate Farms

5. Wai Koa Loop Trail (aka Stone Dam)

3. Blue Dolphin Charters 5. Kaua‘i Sea Tours

1. The Cliffs at Princeville

BEST GUIDED TOUR

4. Māhā‘ulepū Heritage Trail

2. Nāpali Coast

BEST BED & BREAKFAST OR INN

BEST VACATION TIMESHARE

photo: adobestock

4. Polihale State Park

5. Puakea Golf Club

3. Nounou Trail (aka Sleeping Giant)

VOTED BEST HIKING TRAIL Waimea Canyon Trail to Waipo‘o Falls

2. Kaua‘i Backcountry Adventures

4. Holo Holo Charters 5. Kaua‘i Sea Tours BEST FARM TOUR 1. Kaua‘i Coffee Co. 2. Lydgate Farms 3. Garden Island Chocolate 4. Kaua‘i Sugarloaf Pineapple 5. Hawaiian Organic Noni

SPRING 2 0 22

BEST ART GALLERY 1. Island Art Gallery 2. Halele‘a Gallery 3. Kela’s Glass Gallery 4. Tabora Gallery 5. Aloha Art Gallery BEST CLOTHING/FASHION BOUTIQUE OR STORE 1. Crazy Shirts 2. Blue Ginger 3. Hula Girl 4. Mahina 5. Tropical Tantrum BEST STORE FOR GIFTS

1. Jungle Girl Island Imports

VOTED BEST SNORKELING SPOT

2. Banana Patch Studio

Po‘ipū Beach

3. Sand People 4. Bamboo Works

1. Capt. Andy’s Sailing Adventures

2. Mākua Beach (aka Tunnels Beach) 3. ‘Anini Beach

5. Tropic Isle Music and Gifts BEST STORE FOR SOUVENIRS 1. Hilo Hattie

2. Blue Dolphin Charters

4. Kē‘ē Beach

3. Holo Holo Charters

5. Lāwa‘i Beach

2. Kaua‘i Coffee Co.

BEST SURF INSTRUCTION CO.

4. Kaua‘i Made

4. Kaua‘i Sea Tours 5. Island Helicopters

1. Hanalei Surf School BEST SURF SPOT

2. Kaua‘i Surf School

1. Hanalei Bay

3. Hawaiian Style Surfing

2. Kalapakī Beach

4. Titus Kinimaka’s Hawaiian School of Surfing

3. Kāhili Beach (aka Rock Quarry Beach)

5. Kelley’s Surf School

BEST SNORKELING/SCUBA INSTRUCTION

2. Princeville Ranch

1. Snorkel Bob’s Kaua‘i

4. Outfitters Kaua‘i

2. Boss Frog’s Kaua‘i

5. Skyline Hawai‘i

3. Kōloa Zipline

3. Dive Kaua‘i 5. Fathom Five Divers

BEST BEACH GEAR OR WATER GEAR RENTALS 1. Snorkel Bob’s Kaua‘i 2. Boss Frog’s Kaua‘i

BEST ZIPLINE 1. Kaua‘i Backcountry Adventures

4. Nukumoi Surf Co.

5. The Koa Store

3. Kapa’s Beach Shop

4. Anahola Bay 5. Kiahuna Beach

3. The Kaua‘i Store

BEST FISHING CHARTER 1. ‘Ohana Fishing Charters

BEST SHOPPING CENTER OR MALL 1. Coconut Marketplace 2. Po‘ipū Shopping Village 3. The Shops at Kukui‘ula 4. Kukui Grove Center 5. Ching Young Center BEST SURF SHOP

BEST SNORKELING SPOT

2. Captain Don’s Kaua‘i Sport Fishing

1. Po‘ipū Beach

3. Hawaiian Style Fishing

2. Po‘ipū Surf

1. Hanalei Surf Co. 3. Tamba Surf Co. CONTINUED ON PAGE 54

HA WA I ‘ I M A G A Z I N E

photo: adobestock

BEST NĀPALI TOUR CO.

GRAND

G R A N D H YAT T K A U A I R E S O R T & S PA —

Unwind on the soothing white sands of Kauai’s sunny south shore. Celebrate the sun in a water wonderland of pools. Refresh and renew at Anara Spa. Hit the links at Poipu Bay. Savor the flavors of the island at Tidepools, where bungalows set over a koi-filled lagoon welcome you to enjoy modern Hawaiian cuisine. 50 acres of discovery await.

Plan your getaway today, call 808.742.1234 or visit grandhyattkauai.com.

ta-207-370-2400-01

2022 RE ADERS’ CHOICE

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 52

BEST TRANSPORTATION SERVICE

4. Na ‘Āina Kai Botanical Gardens 5. Wai‘oli Hui‘ia Church

1. Alamo Rent-a-Car 2. Thrifty Car Rental 3. The Kaua‘i Bus 4. Roberts Hawai‘i 5. Sue’s Northside Taxi & Tours

BEST RESTAURANT 1. Beach House Restaurant 2. Merriman’s Fish House 3. Tidepools at the Grand Hyatt Kaua‘i Resort & Spa

2. Red Salt at Ko‘a Kea Hotel & Resort at Po‘ipū Beach

BEST BURGER

3. RumFire Po‘ipū Beach

2. Kalypso Island Bar & Grill

4. Tidepools at the Grand Hyatt Kaua‘i Resort & Spa 5. Lava Lava Beach Club BEST BAKERY 1. Kaua‘i Bakery

BEST RESORT FOR A WEDDING

4. Bar Acuda

1. Grand Hyatt Kaua‘i Resort & Spa

5. Jo2 Restaurant

2. Hanalei Bread Co.

2. 1 Hotel Hanalei Bay

BEST BAR OR LOUNGE

4. Haole Girl Island Sweets

3. Hanalei Bay Resort 4. Royal Sonesta Kaua‘i Resort 5. Sheraton Kaua‘i Resort

1. Duke’s Kaua‘i 2. Tahiti Nui 3. Happy Talk Lounge 4. Tiki ‘Iniki

BEST WEDDING VENUE (NOT A BEACH OR RESORT) 1. Waimea Plantation Cottages 2. Princeville Ranch 3. McBryde & Allerton Gardens

5. Trees Lounge BEST HOTEL OR RESORT RESTAURANT 1. Duke’s Kaua‘i

3. Kīlauea Bakery & Pizza 5. The Right Slice

1. Bubba Burgers 3. Kenji Burger 4. Street Burger 5. Kickshaws BEST CHEAP EATS 1. Bubba Burgers 2. Puka Dog Hawaiian Style Hot Dogs 3. The Shrimp Station 4. Da Crack Mexican Grinds 5. Hamura Saimin Stand

BEST BREAKFAST 1. Kountry Kitchen 2. Lava Lava Beach Club at the Kaua‘i Shores Hotel 3. Kalāheo Café & Coffee Co. 4. Ānuenue Café 5. Tip Top Café

BEST FARM-TO-TABLE RESTAURANT 1. Merriman’s Fish House 2. Kaua‘i ‘Ono 3. Hukilau Lānai 4. Bar Acuda 5. Fish Bar Deli

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HA WA I ‘ I M A G A Z I N E

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2022 RE ADERS’ CHOICE

BEST FOOD TRUCK 1. Fresh Bite Kaua‘i 2. Al Pastor Tacos 3. Porky’s Kaua‘i 4. Chip Wrecked 5. Kickshaws BEST NOODLE, SAIMIN OR RAMEN 1. Hamura Saimin Stand 2. Kaua‘i Ramen 3. Pho Kaua‘i 4. Aloha Ramen 5. Saimin Dojo

photo: aaron k. yoshino

BEST PIZZA

VOTED BEST NOODLE, SAIMIN OR RAMEN

1. Brick Oven Pizza 2. Hideaways Pizza Pub

Hamura Saimin Stand

3. Pietro’s Pizza 4. Scorpacciata 5. Kīlauea Bakery & Pizza

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ERS

’ CHOICE

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WA I M E A P LA N TAT I O N C O T TA G E S.C O M SPRING 2 0 22

2022 RE ADERS’ CHOICE

BEST PLATE LUNCH

BEST SEAFOOD RESTAURANT

BEST STEAK HOUSE

1. Kōloa Fish Market

1. The Beach House

1. Duke’s Kaua‘i

2. Pono Market

2. The Dolphin Restaurant, Fish Market & Sushi Lounge

2. Bull Shed Restaurant

3. Merriman’s Fish House

4. The Beach House

3. Hanalei Taro & Juice Co. 4. Mark’s Place 5. Sueoka Store BEST POKE 1. Kōloa Fish Market 2. Foodland 3. Hanalei Poke 4. Ishihara Market 5. Pono Market BEST HAPPY HOUR 1. Lava Lava Beach Club 2. Duke’s Kauaʻi 3. Keoki’s Paradise 4. Kalapaki Joe’s 5. RumFire Po‘ipū Beach

HAWA I ‘ I M A G A Z I N E

4. Duke’s Kaua‘i 5. Keoki’s Paradise BEST SHAVE ICE STAND OR STORE 1. JoJo’s Shave Ice 2. Uncle’s Shave Ice 3. The Fresh Shave 4. Wishing Well Shave Ice 5. Wailua Shave Ice

3. Wrangler’s Steakhouse 5. Kalaheo Steak House BEST GENERAL STORE 1. ABC Stores 2. Foodland 3. Whalers General Store 4. Sueoka Store 5. Hee Fat General Store

2022 RE ADERS’ CHOICE

Moloka‘i BEST BEACH

1. Hālawa Beach 2. Kapukahehu Beach (aka Dixie Maru Cove) 3. Pāpōhaku Beach

BEST LAND ACTIVITY OR ADVENTURE TOUR CO.

BEST CHEAP EATS

1. Kalaupapa Mule Tour

2. Kanemitsu Bakery & Coffee Shop

2. Hālawa Valley Falls Cultural Hike

5. Kepuhi Beach

3. Purdy’s Natural Macadamia Nut Farm

BEST PLACE TO STAY

BEST RESTAURANT

4. Murphy’s Beach

1. Hotel Moloka‘i 2. Dunbar Beachfront Cottages 3. Moloka‘i Shores 4. Pu‘u O Hōkū Ranch 5. Ke Nani Kai

1. Moloka‘i Burger

3. Mana‘e Goods & Grindz 4. ‘Ono Fish & Shrimp Truck 5. Moloka‘i Pizza Café

1. Hiro’s ‘Ohana Grill 2. Kualapu‘u Cookhouse 3. Kanemitsu Bakery & Coffee Shop 4. Paddlers Restaurant and Bar

Lāna‘i

VOTED BEST PLACE TO STAY Four Seasons Resort Lāna‘i

BEST BEACH

3. Kapiha‘a Trail

1. Polihua Beach

4. Fisherman’s Trail

2. Hulopo‘e Beach

5. Munro Trail

BEST PLACE TO STAY

BEST RESTAURANT

1. Four Seasons Resort Lāna‘i

1. Nobu Lāna‘i

2. Hotel Lāna‘i

2. Nō Ka ‘Oi Grindz Lāna‘i

3. Hulopo‘e Beach Park Camping

3. Blue Ginger Café

BEST LAND ACTIVITY OR ADVENTURE TOUR CO.

BEST CHEAP EATS

1. Lāna‘i Jeep Rental

2. Nō Ka ‘Oi Grindz Lāna‘i

2. Trilogy Excursions

3. Malibu Farm Restaurant & Bar

1. Blue Ginger Café

3. Lānaʻi Cat Sanctuary photo: adobestock

BEST PLATE LUNCH BEST HIKING TRAIL

1. Blue Ginger Café

1. Koloiki Ridge Trail

2. Café 565

2. Pu‘u Pehe (aka Sweetheart Rock)

3. Pele’s Other Garden Deli

SPRING 2 02 2

2022 RE ADERS’ CHOICE

Hawai‘i Island 1. Hilton Waikoloa Village 2. Four Seasons Resort Hualālai 3. Mauna Kea Beach Hotel 4. Fairmont Orchid 5. Mauna Lani, Auberge Resorts Collection BEST VALUE HOTEL OR RESORT 1. Royal Kona Resort 2. Hilton Waikoloa Village

5. Waikoloa Beach Marriott Resort & Spa

BEST VACATION TIMESHARE PROPERTY

BEST GUIDED TOUR

6. The Westin Hāpuna Beach Resort

1. Wyndham Kona Hawaiian Resort

2. Epic Lava Tours

7. Volcano House

2. Waikoloa Beach Villas

4. Waipi‘o Valley Shuttle

8. Mauna Lani, Auberge Resorts Collection

3. King’s Land by Hilton Grand Vacations

5. Kona Cloud Forest Guided Walking Tours

9. The Palms Cliff House Inn

4. Bay Club at Waikoloa Beach Resort

10. Hāli‘i Kai at Waikoloa BEST HOTEL OR RESORT SPA

5. Worldmark Kona

1. Hualālai Spa at Four Seasons Resort Hualālai

BEST BEACH

2. The Spa at The Fairmont Orchid

2. Punalu‘u Black Sand Beach

4. Sheraton Kona Resort & Spa at Keauhou Bay

3. Kohala Spa by Hilton Waikoloa Village

3. Mauna Kea Beach

5. Waikoloa Beach Marriott Resort & Spa

4. Mauna Lani Spa at Mauna Lani, Auberge Resorts Collection

5. Makalawena Beach

6. Kona Seaside Hotel

5. The Lotus Center Spa at Royal Kona Resort

3. Courtyard by Marriott King Kamehameha’s Kona Beach Hotel

7. Grand Naniloa Hotel Hilo 8. Volcano House 9. Royal Sea Cliff Kona by Outrigger 10. The Westin Hāpuna Beach Resort

6. Mandara Spa at Mauna Kea Beach Hotel BEST HOTEL OR RESORT POOL 1. Hilton Waikoloa Village 2. Outrigger Kona Resort and Spa

BEST HOTEL OR RESORT FOR FAMILIES

3. Four Seasons Resort Hualālai

1. Royal Kona Resort

5. The Westin Hāpuna Beach Resort

2. Hilton Waikoloa Village 3. Outrigger Kona Resort and Spa

4. Royal Kona Resort

6. Fairmont Orchid

4. Four Seasons Resort Hualālai 5. Mauna Lani, Auberge Resorts Collection BEST HOTEL FOR ROMANCE 1. Four Seasons Resort Hualālai 2. Fairmont Orchid 3. Hilton Waikoloa Village 4. Mauna Kea Beach Hotel

1. Hāpuna Beach

4. Kahalu‘u Beach

BEST CAMPGROUND 1. Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park 2. Spencer Beach Park

HA WA I ‘ I M A G A Z I N E

3. Hawai‘i Forest & Trail

BEST HELICOPTER TOUR 1. Blue Hawaiian Helicopters 2. Paradise Helicopters 3. Safari Helicopters BEST BOTANICAL GARDEN 1. Hawai‘i Tropical Botanical Garden 2. University of Hawai‘i at Hilo Botanical Gardens 3. The Pana‘ewa Rainforest Zoo and Gardens 4. World Botanical Gardens 5. The Umauma Experience

3. Waimanu Valley Campsite 4. Laupāhoehoe Beach Park

BEST GOLF COURSE

5. Nāmakanipaio Campground

1. Kona Country Club 2. Mauna Kea Golf Course

BEST DINNER CRUISE OR SUNSET SAIL

3. Hualālai Golf Course at the Four Seasons Hualālai

1. Body Glove Cruises

4. Hāpuna Golf Course

2. Fair Wind Cruises

5. Makani Golf Club

3. Mauna Lani Sea Adventures 4. Paradise Sailing Hawai‘i

BEST SHOPPING CENTER OR MALL

BEST FARM TOUR

1. Queens’ Marketplace 2. Keauhou Shopping Center

2. The Palms Cliff House Inn

1. Kona Coffee Living History Farm

3. Parker Ranch Center

3. Hōlualoa Inn

2. Greenwell Farms

4. Prince Kūhiō Plaza

4. Dragonfly Ranch

3. Ocean Rider Seahorse Farm

5. Kea‘au Shopping Center

BEST BED & BREAKFAST OR INN 1. Kealakekua Bay Bed & Breakfast

4. Mountain Thunder Coffee Plantation 5. Hawaiian Vanilla Co.

1. Mauna Kea Summit Adventures

photo: adobestock

BEST LUXURY RESORT

VOTED BEST BEACH Hāpuna Beach

2022 RE ADERS’ CHOICE

4. La‘aloa Beach (aka Magic Sands)

BEST BEACH GEAR OR WATER GEAR RENTAL

BEST HOTEL OR RESORT RESTAURANT

2. Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park Kīlauea Iki Trail

5. Mauna Lani Beach

1. Snorkel Bob’s

1. Don the Beachcomber at the Royal Kona Resort

3. Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park Devastation Trail

BEST SURF INSTRUCTION CO.

4. Pololū Valley

2. Kahalu‘u Bay Surf & Sea

BEST HIKING TRAIL 1. ‘Akaka Falls Loop Trail

5. Papokōlea Green Sand Beach

2. Kona Boys 1. Kona Boys 3. Kona Mike’s Surf Adventures

3. Boss Frog’s Snorkel, Bike & Beach Rentals BEST SURF SHOP 1. Kona Boys

BEST LŪ‘AU 1. Royal Kona Lū‘au, Voyagers of the Pacific 2. Legends of Hawai‘i Lū‘au, Hilton Waikoloa Village 3. Island Breeze Lū‘au, Courtyard King Kamehameha’s Kona Beach Hotel

BEST ZIPLINE

2. Kahalu‘u Bay Surf and Sea

1. Kohala Zipline

3. Orchid Land Surf Shop

2. Umauma Falls Zipline & Rappel Experience

5. Oshima Surf & Skate

3. Brown’s Beach House at The Fairmont Orchid 4. Beach Tree at the Four Seasons Resort Hualālai 5. ‘Ulu Ocean Grill at the Four Seasons Hualālai

4. HIC

3. Skyline Eco-Adventures 4. Botanical World Adventures

2. Rays on the Bay at the Outrigger Kona Resort and Spa

BEST BAKERY 1. Punalu‘u Bake Shop

BEST RESORT FOR A WEDDING

2. Two Ladies Kitchen

1. Four Seasons Resort Hualālai

3. Short N Sweet Bakery & Café 4. Tex Drive-In

4. Sunset Lū‘au, Waikoloa Beach Marriott Resort & Spa

BEST FISHING CHARTER

2. Hilton Waikoloa Village

5. The Mauna Kea Lū‘au, Mauna Kea Beach Hotel

1. Bite Me Sportfishing

3. Mauna Kea Beach Hotel

2. Marlin Magic Sportfishing

4. Fairmont Orchid

BEST BREAKFAST

3. A‘u Struck Sportfishing

5. Waikoloa Beach Marriott Resort & Spa

1. Island Lava Java

BEST MUSEUM 1. Kona Coffee Living History Farm 2. Hulihe‘e Palace 3. Pacific Tsunami Museum 4. Lyman Museum 5. Mokupāpapa Discovery Center TEMPORARILY CLOSED BEST SURF SPOT 1. Kahalu’u Beach Park 2. Banyans 3. Old Kona Airport State Park 4. Lyman’s Beach BEST SNORKELING/SCUBA INSTRUCTION 1. Snorkel Bob’s 2. Big Island Divers 3. Body Glove Cruises 4. Jack’s Diving Locker 5. Boss Frog’s BEST SNORKELING SPOT 1. Kealakekua Bay 2. Two Step, Hōnaunau Bay 3. Kahalu‘u Beach Park

HA WA I ‘ I M A G A Z I N E

4. Fire Hatt Sportfishing BEST ART GALLERY 1. Kailua Village Artists Gallery 2. Volcano Art Center 3. Extreme Exposure Fine Art Gallery 4. Genesis Galleries

BEST WEDDING VENUE (NOT A BEACH OR RESORT) 1. The Palms Cliff House Inn 2. Volcano House 3. Nani Mau Gardens 4. Hulihe‘e Palace

5. One Gallery BEST RESTAURANT BEST CLOTHING/FASHION BOUTIQUE OR STORE

1. Roy’s Waikoloa Bar & Grill

1. Hilo Hattie

3. Jackie Rey’s ‘Ohana Grill

2. Tommy Bahama

4. ‘Ulu Ocean Grill at the Four Seasons Hualālai

3. Sig Zane Designs 4. Jams World 5. Pueo Boutique BEST STORE FOR SOUVENIRS 1. Waimea General Store 2. Kimura Lauhala Shop 3. Aloha Pawz 4. Basically Books 5. Wild HeArtist

2. Merriman’s Hawaiʻi Island

2. Hawaiian Style Café 3. Ken’s House of Pancakes 4. The Coffee Shack BEST BURGER 1. Hilo Burger Joint 2. Village Burger Waimea 3. Ultimate Burger 4. Cronies Bar & Grill BEST CHEAP EATS 1. L&L Hawaiian Barbecue 2. Da Poke Shack 3. ‘Umeke’s Fish Market

5. Brown’s Beach House at The Fairmont Orchid

4. 808 Grindz Café

BEST BAR OR LOUNGE

BEST FARM-TO-TABLE RESTAURANT

1. Don the Beachcomber at the Royal Kona Resort

5. Café 100

1. Merriman’s Hawaiʻi Island

2. Kona Brewing Co.

2. Hilo Bay Café

3. Lava Lava Beach Club

3. Foster’s Kitchen

4. Huggo’s

4. Holuakoa Gardens Restaurant and Café

5. Kona Inn

5. Moon and Turtle

2022 RE ADERS’ CHOICE

BEST LOCO MOCO

BEST PLATE LUNCH

1. Big Island Grill

BEST SHAVE ICE STAND OR STORE

2. Hawaiian Style Café

2. L&L Hawaiian Barbecue

1. Aoki’s Shave Ice

3. Ken’s House of Pancakes

3. ‘Umeke’s Fish Market Bar & Grill

2. One Aloha Shave Ice Co.

4. Café 100 5. Pine Tree Café BEST NOODLE, SAIMIN OR RAMEN 1. Ken’s House of Pancakes 2. Noodle Club 3. Nori’s Saimin and Snacks 4. Tetsumen 5. TK Noodle House Kona BEST PIZZA 1. Kona Brewing Co. 2. Big Island Pizza 3. Café Pesto 4. Bianelli’s Gourmet Pizza & Pasta 5. James Angelo’s Underground Pizza

4. Pine Tree Café

3. Original Big Island Shave Ice Co.

5. Café 100

4. Scandinavian Shave Ice 5. Ululani’s Hawaiian Shave Ice

BEST POKE 1. Da Poke Shack

BEST STEAK HOUSE

2. ‘Umeke’s Fish Market Bar and Grill

1. Roy’s Waikoloa Bar & Grill

3. Suisan Fish Market

3. Kamuela Provision Co.

4. Poke Market

4. Merriman’s Hawaiʻi Island

5. Kona Grill House

5. Outback Steakhouse

2. Ruth’s Chris Steak House

BEST SEAFOOD RESTAURANT 1. The Fish Hopper 2. ‘Umeke’s Fish Market Bar & Grill 3. The Seaside Restaurant 4. Jackie Rey’s ‘Ohana Grill 5. ‘Ulu Ocean Grill at the Four Seasons Hualālai

VOTED BEST HIKING TRAIL

photo: adobestock

‘Akaka Falls Loop Trail

SPRING 2 0 22

HAWAI‘I MAGAZINE’S ND 22 ANNUAL PHOTO CONTEST WINNERS

LAND

OCEAN

PEOPLE

WILDLIFE

SUNSETS

GRAND PRIZE

It was a strange year for the annual HAWAI‘I Magazine Photo Contest, with COVID-19 putting a damper on photographers’ opportunities to travel and capture Hawai‘i. However, we still received hundreds of eye-catching, award-worthy photos from readers, and our in-house team of editors, art directors and photographers were still presented with quite the challenge trying to choose finalists. Featured in the next few pages are the first-place winners in the categories of land, ocean, people, wildlife and sunsets, as well as the grand-prize winner who wowed our judges. And a big thank you to Alaska Airlines and Embassy Suites by Hilton Waikīkī Beach Walk, who sponsored the prizes for this contest. Find the runner-up photos online at hawaiimagazine.com. Congratulations to the winners and a big mahalo to everyone who shared their images of our beautiful Islands.

Leighton Lum ‘Aiea, O‘ahu @photography_by_leighton “I took this shot during the 2020 pandemic lockdowns. This shot was only made possible because there were very few people going outside during the lockdowns, and bait balls were coming into beaches along Waikīkī. With the bait balls so close to shore and with so few people around, these sandbar sharks were able to come in and snag an easy meal. I was lucky enough to be flying my drone that day and had a few great views of this interesting hunting behavior that is not often seen in heavily populated areas such as Waikīkī.”

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Land

Semaj Thomas Honolulu, O‘ahu @_ilovegrandma

“I went out for sunrise at Kualoa Regional Park. It was a cloud covered morning—which generally are my favorite times to shoot because there is always potential for light leaks. I sent up the drone, set the composition and Mother Nature did the rest. This image to me is indicative of the stories I’ve learned about historic Hawai‘i, and I hope it stands the test of time.”

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Ocean

Peter Tang Honolulu, O‘ahu @petertangphotography

“A high surf advisory ushered a procession of waves to O‘ahu’s Waimea Bay. The wind blew water off the lip and the morning sun illuminated the spray to create a rainbow in its wake.”

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People

Lisa titimacco Wahiawā, O‘ahu @lisaunderwater

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“I remember this day well—I got out a little before sunset during a decent winter south swell on O‘ahu. After a set rolled through, I saw my friend Nancy (@nancxyx) sitting on the nose of her longboard, taking a break and watching the other surfers. She was so relaxed and the golden hour light was hitting her face perfectly so I took a couple shots. They turned out pretty good.”

Sunset

Gareth Ormita Wahiawā, O‘ahu @g.ormita

“As sunset was approaching, I looked to the sky and saw it was full of high clouds with light winds—which always makes a good canvas for that golden hour shot. So I took a short drive to the North Shore on O‘ahu and the scenery did not disappoint. As the sun started dipping, I was greeted with a fiery sky!”

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Wildlife

Eri Ragan

Honolulu, O‘ahu @eriocean

“A quiet, peaceful morning with a playful dolphin on O‘ahu.”

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MĀLAMA

MALAMA

photos: courtesy of loko ea

Visit the Islands with an Aloha-First Mindset Visitors to Hawai‘i are encouraged to travel with respect and to seek a deeper understanding of the culture. BY GRACE MAEDA

T’S NO SURPRISE the Hawaiian Islands are a top travel destination. While the scenic beaches, lush tropical forests and ‘ono (delicious) food are unforgettable, it’s the welcoming people willing to share Hawai‘i and its rich culture that make a trip to the Islands exceptional. However, Hawai‘i isn’t just a destination—it’s home to 1.5 million people. In 2019, a record-breaking 10.4 million visitors journeyed to the Islands. It’s a staggering number and an unsustainable one, experts warn. Hawai‘i’s delicate environment and local communities just can’t take the stress. When COVID-19 halted nearly all visits to the state, critical environments such as the coral reef at Hanau-

ma Bay began to recover from decades of human impact. Roads, hiking trails and beaches were less congested. Ultimately, this time of seclusion allowed Hawai‘i to reevaluate how we intend to share our home. Hawai‘i is reimagining a travel industry that is sustainable for the environment and communities. We’re striving toward a regenerative tourism model that not only ensures less harm to the natural environment but takes great strides to protect and restore it.

And every visitor is encouraged to be a part of it. In Hawaiian culture, all elements are intertwined. The mountains and the ocean, the streams and the wildlife all play a role in maintaining the Islands’ delicate natural cycle. Humans, too, have a role and responsibility. Savili Bartley, the Native Hawaiian plant technician and cultural tour coordinator at Loko Ea, explains: “We have cultural ties and connection to ‘āina (land)– ‘āina is our makua (parent). We believe it’s our provider. Our older brother is from ‘āina, kalo (taro). We’re tied by family bonds. It may be a foreign concept to visitors, but what better way to show them than by having them here, in ‘āina, with us.” Loko Ea is an organization dedicated to preserving the Loko Ea fishpond in Hale‘iwa on O‘ahu’s North Shore. In addition to its conservation efforts, Loko Ea runs educational programming SPRING 2 0 22

MĀLAMA

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ABOVE The nonprofit organization Loko Ea provides visitors the opportunity to learn about the Loko Ea fishpond.

However, the ban does not prevent travelers from bringing their own chemical-based sunscreen into the state. Unless visitors already own reef-safe sunscreen, they should wait to purchase it here in the Islands. This way, they can be certain it doesn’t contain coral-degrading ingredients. “One of the best ways to give back,” besides going to a beach cleanup event, “is just being mindful before leaving home,” suggests Barbara Wiedner, the education and outreach chair for the Surfrider Foundation’s Kaua‘i chapter. The chapter created an online guide to being an ocean friendly visitor to Kaua‘i; it’s featured on the group’s website (kauai. surfrider.org/ocean-friendly-visitors-program). From participating in beach cleanups to respecting marine life, it’s a resource for all travelers to the state. Wiedner notes it’s a rare day

when she doesn’t notice a bottle washed up on the shore while strolling the beach near her Garden Isle home. She encourages everyone to use reusable bottles while traveling. “Many visitors leave their Hydro Flask at home because it involves pouring your water out before TSA and refilling it after,” she says. “One of the biggest things visitors can do is pack a reusable bottle, and it’s a simple thing.” Alongside volunteering, seeking out educational opportunities can strengthen a visitor’s understanding of Hawai‘i as a whole. At the Ka‘anapali Beach Hotel on Maui, cultural advisers lead workshops open to all guests, with such topics as lei making and the history of ancient Polynesian voyaging. Gayle Miyaguchi, a cultural resource specialist at the hotel, says the goal of the interactive program is to engage travelers with the traditions and customs of Hawai‘i. A hula class illuminates how the dance isn’t just for lū‘au shows: It also helps to preserve the language, history and ancient stories of Hawai‘i. Miyaguchi hopes that education leads to a better understanding of Hawai‘i’s culture and surroundings. “Hopefully guests learn to respect places,” she says. “We teach them about Pu‘u Keka‘a (commonly referred to as Black Rock). We want

photos: courtesy of loko ea, aaron k. yoshino

for students and groups. Bartley leads the Holole‘a program, a project designed specifically for travelers to Hawai‘i. “The reason we did this program was to give groups of visitors our full attention,” says Bartley. “We believe it’s important that if you’re visiting here, you get the full scope of what we do.” Each Holole‘a program begins with an oli (chant). The oli pays respect to a sacred space and announces the intentions of people entering. Bartley then guides groups through the sanctuary and explains the significance of the fishpond. Following the tour, groups assist in tackling the tasks of the day, such as removing invasive grass and other plants from the pond. Volunteering at Loko Ea, and at similar conservation sites in Hawai‘i, provides opportunities to engage with both the land and the culture. While these organizations benefit from volunteers, visitors also gain a stronger appreciation for their travel destination. For many, it’s a more rewarding way to go. “Making connections to ‘āina is so important. That’s what we want to instill in our visitors,” Bartley says. “You’re not only pulling weeds, you’re helping clear space for the next generations. You’re helping clear space to plant more native plants. They’re a part of building that foundation.” Volunteers help ensure future generations can experience Hawai‘i, which is why keeping the beach pristine goes far beyond aesthetics. Underwater lies a brilliant world of wildlife and vibrant coral ecosystems, all of it threatened by marine debris and toxins. Along with volunteering, making conscious choices can aid in preserving the health of these creatures and their fragile habitats. Hawai‘i is the first U.S. state to ban the sale of sunscreen containing coral-harming chemicals.

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ABOVE Filled with rich history, Hawai‘i has a strong culture tied to the environment and natural resources.

“You’re not only pulling weeds, you’re helping clear space for the next generations. You’re helping clear space to plant more native plants. They’re a part of building that foundation.” Loko Ea educator Savili Bartley

them to learn that is a sacred place and won’t be jumping and climbing all over it.” Bartley says he notices many visitors who volunteer with Loko Ea return later to contribute even more to restoration efforts. Frequently, he hears visitors say they’re surprised by the ingenuity and significance of the fishpond. “When they come here, they’re really shocked,” he says. “They’re very appreciative to be in this space and learn the importance of it as well as the functionality of it.” Hawai‘i is more than just paradise. Filled with rich history, the Islands have a strong culture tied to nature. From learning about the development of traditional Hawaiian music to partaking in a conservation project, when visitors travel to Hawai‘i with respect, formative experiences follow. Bartley refers to it as “pono intentions.” In Hawaiian, pono refers to righteousness and a sense of responsibility. Visiting with pono intentions is a way for visitors to say mahalo to Hawai‘i’s people and land. LEFT Hawai‘i is reimaging a travel industry that is sustainable for the environment and communities.

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ONE LAST LOOK

One Last Look P H O T O B Y T R AV I S M O R R I N , @ T R AV I S K E A H I

E‘AHI, ALSO KNOWN AS JAWS, on Maui is often regarded

as the ultimate challenge for every big wave waterman and waterwoman. From traditional big wave surfing to windsurfing, kitesurfing and even getting towed in on a jet ski, there are numerous ways to tackle this mammoth of a wave—which often can reach thirty to fifty feet in height. And everytime there’s a swell large enough to awaken Pe‘ahi, there’s always a group of men and women pushing their limits as well as the limits of wave riding— and thankfully we get to watch, from a safe distance.

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LIKE A LOCAL

The Simple Perfection of Poke BY KEVIN ALLEN

THERE’S BEAUTY IN THE SIMPLICITY OF THE POKE BOWL. Rice—white or

photo: aaron k. yoshino

brown—is topped with cubed ‘ahi, tako or other bite-sized chunks of seafood. (But most of the time, it’s ‘ahi). Often the rice is layered with a thin sprinkle of furikake, a Japanese seasoning made of sesame seed and seaweed. And voila, the poke bowl. It can be eaten on the beach, at your hale (home) or even in your car if you just can’t wait. The dish was born in the Islands, a product of our culinary mixing pot. Ancient Hawaiians feasted on freshly caught fish—which was sliced or diced into cubed pieces, the definition of the word poke in ‘ōlelo Hawai‘i (Hawaiian language)—mixed with seaweed, crushed ‘inamona and kukui nut for

centuries before Western contact. And as emigrants from China and Japan began calling the Islands home, the variety of poke began to expand and evolve. The local favorite has found plenty of homes abroad, from London to San Francisco, but you might not recognize it. Away from Hawai‘i, it takes on a new, unfamiliar look, paired with unusual additions like quinoa, chicken, zucchini noodles, cauliflower, corn and more. While we can’t stop other cultures and locales from putting their own spin on the poke bowl, there’s really nothing like ordering one here in the Islands. The rice is cooked just right, the portions are perfect and the fish is so, so fresh. While many locals say Foodland and Tamura’s have the best bowls for your buck, others swear by the poke at smaller outlets, such as Kahuku Superette on O‘ahu and Ishihara Market on Kaua‘i. Both have fierce followers. But whether you get yours at Tamura’s or Foodland, or you like the shoyu ‘ahi better than the oyster sauce ‘ahi, the simple bowl of rice and cubed fish is a big part of Hawai‘i’s local culture. Just please don’t put corn on it. P

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Articles inside

A Pinch of SALT

E Komo Mai

Q&A with visitor industry expert Kalani Ka‘āna‘anā