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Contents

KAHUKU UNIT

Local Vibe

Local Faves

Lay of the Island

Rascal of the Lariat

Wild at Heart

A closer look at the life, color, and character of the islands

Hawai‘i Island resident Gina Marinucci shares her insight

Getting familiar with the Big Island

More than a century after his historic win at Cheyenne Frontier Days, the legacy of paniolo hero Ikua Purdy still rides through Waimea

On Mauna Loa’s southern slopes, the Kahuku Unit offers a rare glimpse of Hawai‘i’s lava fields, native forest, and birdsong

30 PANIOLO LEGEND

HULA SHOW MONDAYS | 6 - 7 PM UKULELE LESSON WEDNESDAYS | 6 - 7 PM MĀKEKE FRIDAYS FRIDAYS | 4 - 7 PM COCONUT AV A E GECKO GIRLZ GENESIS GALLERIES ISLAND GOURMET MARKETS KONA BISCUIT CO. KOAWOOD RANCH KULEANA RUM SHACK L&L HAWAIIAN BARBECUE LAV AVA AV VA LIGHT GALLERIES MAHINA MAUI DIVERS JEWELRY OLIVIA CLARE BOUTIQUE OLUKA K I KA PONO PASTRIES REYN SPOONER RIP CURL SKIN FACTORY TA TAT ATTOO SOHA KEIKI SOHA LIVING STA T RBUCKS TA SUNGLASS HUT THE BISTRO AT A THE CINEMAS TOMMY BAHAMA MARLIN BAR TOMMY BAHAMA STORE WAIKOLOA LUXURY CINEMAS WAIKOLOA SHRIMP CO. AND MANY MORE! 69-201 WAIKOLOA BEACH DRIVE WAIKOLOA, HAWAI’I • 808-886-8822 QUEENSMARKETPLA L CE.COM LA

Contents

CREATIVE INSPIRATION

A DAY AT THE HARBOR

Island Canvas

Destination: Kawaihae

Second Flight

Culinary Q&A

Hot Spot

What We Love Now

Experience Hawai‘i

TOP CHEF

Cover Photography + Styling NATALIA MASTRASCUSA

Hawai‘i Island’s creative community finds inspiration in ancestry, materials, and a deep sense of place

Along the island’s northwestern coast lies a place where rugged beauty, maritime heritage, and local character converge subtly

A Kealakekua sanctuary gives rescued parrots a second chance at trust and a home

Top Chef winner and CanoeHouse Executive Chef Rhoda Magbitang on the ingredients, culture, and hospitality that shape her cooking

At Walua Social, Kona’s farms and waters meet the Italian table

Epicurean finds around the island

Start planning your trip with our curated guides.

MILLER & LUX HUALĀLAI Miller & Lux Hualalai is a premier Kona dining experience by Chef Tyler Florence. Awarded “2025 Best Neighbor Island Restaurant ‘Ilima Awards” and “2025 Best Hawai‘i Island Restaurant Hale ‘Aina Awards,” Miller & Lux is inspired by the cuisine and bounty of Hawai‘i Island, featuring high-quality steaks with impeccable flavor from the best ranches in America, a robust raw bar, fresh and sustainable seafood, and farm-direct vegetables. A thoughtfully curated menu of hand-selected wines and seasonal cocktails complement the cuisine. Dinner 5:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. Lounge 5:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m. (808) 325-8000

Contents SEE + DO | 87

GOLF | 111

erfect Day...

BEACHES | 121

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EAT + DRINK | 127 ‘olelo (“let the stories live on”) as you

ani’s collection of transformational

merse yourself in the history and culture of ersonalized adventure on the island.

SHOP + STYLE | 149 OC2 Outrigger Canoe Paddle Kainalu Sports

ISLAND LIVING | 171 Lomi Lomi Massage Auberge Spa

MASTHEAD KEVIN GEIGER DANIEL DUVAL MUN SOK GEIGER MICHELLE LACOUR NATALIA MASTRASCUSA RINA MAE TABAFUNDA KRYSTAL KAKIMOTO IJFKE RIDGLEY SARA STOVER

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MADE OF THIS

y escape awaits on the la Coast of the Island unded by ancient fish c petroglyphs, Mauna aches set the tone for n to remember. Greet k whales on a sunrise inalu pros, relax in an na or find a cozy place n to stargaze together. 6

MAPS | 177

Picnic Lunch The Market

Personalized Shopping Experience goop Store

TRAVELOGUE | 186 Barefoot Dinner CanoeHouse

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AN ICONIC OCEANFRONT DINING EXPERIENCE CELEBRATING THE FINEST INGREDIENTS FROM HAWAIʻI'S LAND AND SEA

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Hualälai Realt _ Hualalai Realty CELEBRATING 30 YEARS AT HUALÄLAI

AT HUALĀLAI REALTY, it is our privilege to serve you for the past 30 years and help you find the perfect Hualālai home. As Hualālai Resort’s exclusive on-site real estate office, we are the experts in this luxury niche market, having closed more than $3 BILLION since 1996. We focus 100% of our efforts on sales at Hualālai. We look forward to sharing our insights and unique listings with you, and providing incomparable service for all of your real estate needs at the world’s premier residential resort.

THE TEAM

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STOP BY OUR OFFICE NEAR THE HUALĀLAI TRADING COMPANY WATCH US ON THE IN-ROOM REAL ESTATE CHANNEL 2 CALL US AT 808.325.8500 OR VISIT US AT HUALALAIREALTY.COM Access to and use of private amenities at Hualālai Resort is available only to Hualālai Members. Hualālai Membership is not included with a purchase of a property. See Membership plan and other governing documents for terms, conditions and costs. Obtain the Property Report or its equivalent required by Federal and State law and read it before signing anything. No federal or state agency has judged the merits or value, if any, of the property/properties shown here. Warning: The California Department of Real Estate has not inspected, examined, or qualified this offering. All residential sales offered by Hualālai Residential LLC dba Hualālai Realty. © 2026 Hualālai Realty.

LOCAL VIBE

Native Hunter Short legs and an even shorter neck give the ‘auku‘u, or black-crowned night heron, a laid-back but regal look. However, this demeanor is misleading, for there is nothing relaxed about the way this water-loving bird attacks its prey. When hunting, the heron waits, patient and motionless, at the water’s edge until an unsuspecting fish, frog, mouse, insect, or small bird comes by. Then it snatches the prey with a quick strike of its long, sharp beak. Despite its name, the night heron also hunts in the early morning and at dusk, and spends its time in aquatic habitats from mountain streams to ponds and the shoreline. One of Hawai‘i’s few native waterbirds, the ‘auku‘u appears in the Kumulipo, the Hawaiian creation chant. Since much of its wetland habitat has been lost, it is often seen hunting in golf course ponds, fish farms, and even resort ponds, awaiting its next meal.

Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture and history of Hawai‘i Island, where there’s delicious traditional island cuisine, storytelling performances, and the sharing of Aloha. Experience the heart and soul of the island in an evening that promises to be a feast for the senses, leaving you with memories to last a lifetime.

Experience the flavors of iconic Hawai‘i.

Overlooking Kauna‘oa Bay, Manta pioneered Kohala Regional Cuisine, featuring hyper-farm-to-table ingredients harvested just steps away and prepared at peak freshness.

Discover exquisite cuisine and handcrafted cocktails made with fresh, local ingredients at Mauna Kea Resort, all set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Kohala Coast.

Meridia offers Mediterranean-inspired cuisine, al fresco dining with stunning sunsets, fresh island ingredients, curated cocktails, award-winning wine list, and freshly made pasta.

Reserve your table and explore our island-inspired dining at M AU N A K E A R E S O R T.C O M / D I N I N G

LOCAL VIBE

Hidden Blooms Whether it’s in a bouquet or a well-manicured garden, heliconias are some of the most recognizably tropical plants you’ll encounter. Ranging in height from knee-high to a towering 15 feet, heliconias make a dramatic sight in any setting. Native to the American tropics, heliconias love wet, tropical climates, making Hawai‘i an ideal place to take root. The part of the plant that many people incorrectly consider the flower comes in two forms, erect and pendent — the brightly colored bracts of the inflorescence hiding a smaller, more delicate flower, much like a ginger’s. Within those two forms, though, lies an almost innumerable variety of colors and shapes. The “Andromeda” variety, its striking pink, orange, and yellow bracts tipped in black like a bird’s claw, stays short but makes a dramatic border in a garden. Others, such as Heliconia rostrata, hang down amid their towering green leaves in bright red bracts with yellow and green tips, resembling a lobster claw or parrot’s beak. Still other hanging heliconias look like graceful dancers caught mid-motion. Keep your eyes peeled for these unexpected plants on your travels, and see how many of the nearly 200 species you can find.

NOIO OMAKASE COUNTER & SUSHI LOUNGE Our award winning sushi restaurant features freshly caught fish and seafood showcased through authentic Japanese dishes. The crown jewel at NOIO is the intimate 12-seat omakase counter, where the Chef presents a six course culinary journey comprised of carefully crafted seasonal items along with Wagashi, Japanese confections prepared by the Resort’s pastry team. This unique, curated meal will be one you will not soon forget. Omakase Seatings: 5:45 PM & 8:00 PM À la Carte Dining Available 5:30 PM - 9:00 PM Reservations Required | Open Wednesday–Sunday (808) 325-8000

LOCAL VIBE

Flow State Hawai‘i is a well-known destination for couples and honeymooners seeking an idyllic vacation — and with that comes plenty of tempting libations that look and taste like the tropics. Hawai‘i Island is famous for the perpetually active Kīlauea, whose dramatic lava flows dazzle all who have a chance to see the volcano in action. The lava flow is a decadent treat that lacks the burning fury of Pele, the deity of Kīlauea’s fire, regardless of its name, and is just as alluring, albeit for different reasons. The lava flow cocktail is a blended drink, which in essence combines the classic piña colada with strawberries (the lava). There are numerous variations, but the traditional version blends light and coconut rums, pineapple juice, coconut cream, and banana with ice, then pours the mix over puréed strawberries resting at the bottom of a hurricane glass. Achieving the drink’s namesake visual can be a bit tricky. When poured correctly, the bright red strawberry purée will “flow” menacingly up the sides of the glass, contrasting with the white of the banana, coconut, and pineapple concoction. Ironically cool and refreshing, the lava flow is an island favorite.

AN EXTRAORDINARY NEW CLUB LOUNGE FOR THE MODERN TRAVELER AT MAUNA LANI, AUBERGE COLLECTION

68-1400 MAUNA LANI DR, HAWAI‘I · 855.201.3179 AUBERGE.COM/MAUNA-LANI · @MAUNALANIAUBERGE

LOCAL VIBE

Safe Harbor The Java sparrow (Padda oryzivora) has become a familiar sight throughout much of Hawai‘i in the last 50 years. The bird is distinguishable by a black head with white cheek patches, a reddish ring around the eyes, a thick pinkish-red beak, and a smooth blue-gray body. Though the name might lead you to believe that this bird is the color of espresso or likes coffee beans, “Java” actually refers to its native Indonesia, where it hails from the islands of Java and Bali. Sleek plumage and an amiable nature have made it a popular cage bird since the days of the Ming Dynasty. It was one of the most popular avian pets in the United States until the early 1970s, when importation of the bird was outlawed due to agricultural concerns. Though common in Hawai‘i since its introduction in the 1960s, the Java sparrow is evaluated as endangered on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species, uplisted from vulnerable status in 2018.

WHERE HEALING BEGINS WITHIN

The all-new Spa at Mauna Kea offers an immersive wellness experience inspired by the restorative power of Hawaiʻi Island. Rooted in the philosophy of Ho‘ōla i Loko, healing from within, each journey is curated to nurture connection, renewal, and inner calm.

BEGIN YOUR JOURNEY OF RENEWAL

Spa at Mauna Kea is thoughtfully designed to deliver a multi-sensory journey, where open-air treatment rooms, steam and sauna experiences, invigorating plunge pools, lush tropical gardens, a tranquil meditation pavilion, a vitality pool and co-ed wellness deck elevate each treatment beyond the traditional spa experience.

To Reserve, Call 808.882.5000 | SPAATMAUNAKEA.COM

T HE G AT HE R ING PL A CE OF T HE KOH A L A CO A S T

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R E L A X . S H O P. D I N E . P L A Y . H A W A I ` I .

WAIKOLOA BEACH RESORT Located 20 minutes north of the airport along the scenic Kohala Coast

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LOCAL VIBE

Between the Tides Tidepools are home to marine life such as crabs, sea urchins, cowries, sea stars, sea snails, sea cucumbers, and small fish. Spotting the creatures that live in the crystal-clear pools is a fun time for the whole family. When exploring the many tidepools, mind your own safety along with that of the fragile animals. Look more than you touch, and always return an animal gently to the spot where you found it. Replace rocks just as you found them, since many creatures shelter beneath them. Don’t turn your back on the ocean — you never know when a wave will crash into you, or worse, sweep you out to sea. Protect your feet and beware of potential danger from venomous or otherwise harmful sea creatures. It is against the law to break or take live corals or rocks covered with sea life. If exploring with children, pick up a fish ID card to make the activity educational and more enjoyable; the card also flags which animals are harmful. 20

LOCAL VIBE

Sea Support Fairmont Orchid sits on the Kohala Coast of Hawai‘i Island. In an effort to help protect the coral reefs that frame the property, the hotel has partnered with the ‘Āko‘ako‘a Reef Restoration Program. The initiative combines scientific research with traditional Hawaiian cultural practices to improve coastal ecosystems along West Hawai‘i’s 120-mile coastline, home to 35 species of coral. The state’s reefs face ongoing degradation from climate change, coastal pollution, and overfishing. Guests can experience the organization’s efforts to combat these threats firsthand with Fairmont Orchid’s new Pauoa Bay Snorkel Excursion, where they are guided to one of the reef nurseries in front of the hotel. Corals that have naturally detached during strong waves — and would otherwise die — are transported to ‘Āko‘ako‘a’s coral research and propagation facility in Kailua-Kona to breed, and the offspring are reintroduced to their native habitat in Pauoa Bay. “As stewards of Pauoa Bay, we embrace both the privilege and responsibility of protecting this vital ecosystem,” shares Michael Pye, Regional Vice President of Fairmont Hawai‘i. “With our commitment to this coral reef restoration program, we hope to preserve the cultural heritage and ecological significance of the bay and West Hawai‘i for future generations.” The resort’s complimentary quarterly Coral Chats, led by ‘Āko‘ako‘a representatives, explore the project’s impact on reef health and marine conservation. —IJfke Ridgely Fairmont Orchid; 1 N. Kaniku Drive, Kohala Coast; (808) 885-2000; fairmontorchid.com.

Our Wave collection comes in several styles and sizes and is available in 14K Yellow, White or Rose Gold.

An incomparable collection of Hawaiian and Island lifestyle jewelry HAWAI‘I ISLAND

Kona Marketplace, 808-329-5080

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LOCAL VIBE

Favorite snorkel spot Puakō is a quiet coastal community with calm, clear water ideal for snorkeling. The reefs are full of marine life — colorful fish, sea turtles, and the occasional manta ray. At low tide, I love exploring the tide pools for a closer look at the smaller creatures. The sunsets here make it a perfect place to unwind after a day in the water.

Local Faves GINA MARINUCCI Occupation Director of Operations, Mauna Kea Club at Mauna Kea Resort How long have you lived in Hawai‘i Four years Moved from Miami, Florida

Favorite Hawaiian singer Listening to Paula Fuga fills my heart and deepens my appreciation for Hawaiian music and culture. Seeing her live is more than a concert. It’s storytelling set to music, and it stays with you. Her collaborations with Jack Johnson, especially the heartfelt “Country Road,” remind me of home, far away where I grew up in West Virginia. Favorite place to dine For sushi, nothing beats Sushi Hana. In my opinion, it’s the best on the island. The fish is exceptionally fresh, much of it flown in directly from Japan, and every plate shows real attention to detail. What makes it special is Etsuko herself; her restaurant feels like a true find tucked away in Waimea. Between the sushi, the comforting udon, and the intimate room, it’s the kind of place that keeps you coming back. One word of advice: reservations are essential, so book well ahead. Part of me hesitates to share this at all, because every new fan makes it harder for me to get a table. But some secrets are too good to keep.

PHOTO COURTESY: (THIS PAGE/OPP LEFT) RINA MAE TABAFUNDA

Favorite hangout Uila Records is where I go when I want music, good company, and a sense of community. The communal seating makes it easy to strike up a conversation with another music lover, whether you’ve lived here for years or just arrived. Plus, the cocktails are great.

Favorite place to take my guests I can spend hours wandering the Hawai‘i Tropical Botanical Garden. It’s a wonderful place to bring guests, and every visit turns up something new. Camera in hand, I follow the winding paths and photograph the tropical plants collected from Hawai‘i and around the world. It’s a great way to take in the islands’ biodiversity up close. Favorite place to catch the sunset My favorite place to catch a sunset is on the water. For something intimate, I call Tyson at Holoholo Kai Charters. Their personalized service makes it perfect for a small group of six or fewer. When I’m hosting a larger group, Hawai‘i Nautical is my goto; their sunset cruises along the Kohala Coast are a memorable way to end the day. Both depart from Kawaihae Harbor. My favorite drive Hands down, the Hāmākua Coast from Waimea to Hilo. Start your Saturday at the farmers markets at Parker School and Pukalani Stables, then grab a flat white — extra shot, coconut milk — from Country Grounds before hitting the road. Stop at Waipi‘o Valley Artworks, take in the views from the Waipi‘o Valley Lookout, and wander the shops of Honoka‘a. Along the way, pick up coffee from Lean-To Farm Hawai‘i and a chocolate tasting at Honoka‘a Chocolate Company. Before Hilo, a stop at Tex Drive-In for a warm malasada is mandatory. Then finish the day at the Hilo Farmers Market, over lunch and an espresso martini at The Hidden Nene. Ocean views, waterfalls, rolling green hills, local flavors, and endless aloha. That’s my perfect Saturday drive on Hawai‘i Island.

Favorite lū‘au experience My favorite lū‘au is the one at Mauna Kea Beach Hotel. The Lim family has led it for more than 40 years, and that’s what I love about it. The music and storytelling come from people who deeply know this place. With Kauna‘oa Bay right there, it’s the one I send guests to. Favorite tradition One of my favorite Hawaiian traditions is the giving of lei to mark life’s milestones. Whether it’s a birthday, graduation, anniversary, or another meaningful occasion, presenting a lei is a way to honor someone and show love, respect, gratitude, and aloha. Each lei is made with care and carries its own meaning, which makes it far more than a gift; it’s an expression of connection and celebration. There’s also something special about continuing a tradition that’s been shared in Hawai‘i for generations. If you were a visitor, you would want to know A little Hawai‘i Island tip from a local: always be ready for several climates in one day. I never leave home without extra layers, a towel, plenty of water, and a change of shoes. The weather here can shift dramatically within a 30-minute drive, depending on which way you’re headed. And if you want something unforgettable, make the early-morning drive to the summit of Mauna Kea for sunrise. Watching the sun come up above the clouds is pure magic and well worth the wake-up call. Just bundle up as it gets cold at that elevation. That’s the beauty of this island: you can find sunshine, rainforest, beaches, and alpine air all in the same day.

ALOHA

HAWAI‘I 26

The land you’re standing on is very special.

For millions of years, forces of nature have worked to create and shape these very islands, as each one slowly, but surely, rose from the sea. Welcome to the island of Hawai‘i, also known as the Big Island, the newest and youngest of the Hawaiian Islands. Here, you can witness many facets of awe and wonder as you explore valleys carved eons ago or newly formed coastlines, all waiting for you to discover their immense beauty, their historical and cultural importance, and their relevancy to our island’s vibrant future. Bigger than all the other Hawaiian Islands combined, the Big Island is an island of contrasts and contradictions. Maunakea looms as our tallest volcano at 13,803 feet, but extends another 19,700 feet below sea level making it the tallest mountain in the world when measured from the base. (Mount Everest is the highest mountain.) Yet, only a hundred feet or so shorter, Mauna Loa is considered the world’s largest volcano, both in terms of mass and volume. Kīlauea, which until recently was one of the world’s most active volcanoes, is not even the youngest. Right off the southeast coast of the Big Island lies Kama‘ehuakanaloa, a submarine volcano slowly growing larger, and poised to make its emergence above the sea surface in a mere hundred thousand years, give or take. Whatever type of adventure you’re looking for, the Big Island delivers in spades. If you’re looking to step foot into some of the world’s best and most colorful beaches, with your choice of white at Hāpuna Beach State Park or Manini‘ōwali Bay (also known as Kua Bay), black at Punalu‘u, gray or green sands at Papakōlea, you’ve come to the right place. If you’d rather explore massive

peaks, dense jungle rainforests, subterranean lava tubes (Thurston Lava Tube in Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park), dry, arid deserts, and almost all types of landscapes in between, the Big Island has it. Thrill-seekers might prefer catching a big wave or soaring high above the trees on a zipline over stunning waterfalls. For adventurers who prefer less adrenaline inducing activities, gently float down an old cane field irrigation ditch in a tube in Hāwī. And nature lovers can look for sightings of native birds in a peaceful forest. Whatever you’re seeking, whether it’s relaxation and respite on a gorgeous beach or unforgettable adventure, the Big Island is an extraordinary playground for all. Everything about the Hawaiian culture, traditions, history, language, food, and, of course, genuine aloha is truly what makes this place so singular. Learning about King Kamehameha I, the great unifier of all the Hawaiian Islands, and his journey from a young chief to commanding statesman, is a historical significance felt greatly on the Big Island, his birthplace. The Big Island is home to one of the most diverse populations in the entire United States. Along the way, you’re sure to experience the unique culture of many ethnic groups of people who have made Hawai‘i home over generations. From the ancestors of former sugar cane workers, including Japanese, Chinese, Filipino, Portuguese, and Korean residents, to more recent immigrants such as Anglo-American, Marshallese, and other Polynesian Islanders, each culture has brought its own flavor here. Taking the time to see how they’ve blended into a beautiful mélange is one of the joys of the different experiences found here.

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Explore the south Kona Coast and crystal-clear waters of Kealakekua Bay, home to the Captain Cook Monument. Our eco-friendly snorkel tours bring you closer to Hawai‘i’s vibrant marine life, creating unforgettable memories all while helping to protect our ocean and reefs. FAMILY OWNED AND OPERATED FOR OVER 50 YEARS

Come aboard the family-friendly Fair Wind II or explore South Kona's breathtaking snorkel sites aboard Hula Kai, a luxurious eco-friendly catamaran designed for adults.

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RASCAL – of the – LARIAT More than a century after his historic win at Cheyenne Frontier Days, the legacy of paniolo hero Ikua Purdy still rides through Waimea words KRYSTAL KAKIMOTO images BISHOP MUSEUM ARCHIVES

hile visitors may pause to admire the larger-than-life bronze statue of Ikua Purdy at Parker Ranch Center or catch a glimpse of his likeness at the Paniolo Hall of Fame, few know the full story behind the legendary paniolo (Hawaiian cowboy) and the enduring legacy he left on the cowboy community, both in Hawai‘i and across the continent. Riding his way into history and later immortalized in song, Purdy carried the spirit of the Hawaiian cowboy onto the world stage. His landmark victory in the 1908 steer roping world championship at Cheyenne Frontier Days demonstrated that Hawai‘i’s paniolo culture could compete with, and even surpass, the finest cowboys of the American West, forever securing his place in rodeo lore and Hawaiian history. Born on December 24, 1873, in Waimea on Hawai‘i Island, Ikua William Purdy was the son of William Harry Nāleilehua Purdy and Anna Kamakalia Parker Waipa. Through his mother, he was part of the prominent Parker family, whose legacy was deeply intertwined with the development of ranching in Hawai‘i. His great-grandfather, John Palmer Parker, founded Parker Ranch, one of the largest and most influential cattle ranches in the United States.

Ikua Purdy, champion cowboy, ca. 1935

Parker Ranch Store; ca. 1934

William Spencer, Ikua Purdy, and Archie Ka‘au‘a on horseback

Purdy was part of Hawai‘i’s paniolo tradition, a culturally rich multigenerational community whose origins date back to the early 19th century.

Raised amid the rolling pastures of Waimea, Purdy grew up immersed in the world of horses, cattle, and paniolo culture. From an early age, he learned the skills of ranching and horsemanship that were essential to life in the uplands of Hawai‘i. Working alongside seasoned cowboys, he developed an exceptional talent for riding and roping, earning a reputation for his natural athleticism, steady demeanor, and deep understanding of both the land and livestock. These qualities would later distinguish him as one of Hawai‘i’s most accomplished paniolo and help propel him into international recognition. Purdy was part of Hawai‘i’s paniolo tradition, a culturally rich multigenerational community whose origins date back to the early 19th century. Paniolo emerged in response to a growing problem posed by wild cattle roaming the islands. In 1793, British explorer Captain George Vancouver presented King Kamehameha I with a gift of cattle: six cows and one bull. These cattle were meant to help ensure a future food supply for the kingdom and were initially placed under kapu (royal protection or taboo) and allowed to roam freely. Over the following decades, the herd multiplied rapidly. With no natural predators and limited control measures, cattle populations exploded across the islands, trampling agricultural fields, damaging native landscapes, and creating significant challenges for local communities. Historical accounts describe herds that destroyed crops and even ate thatched roofs of homes in search of food. In the 1830s, King Kamehameha III invited Mexican vaqueros (cowboys) to Hawai‘i to teach Native Hawaiians the skills of cattle ranching. These

experienced horsemen introduced techniques in riding, roping, braiding, and herd management that would lay the foundation for Hawai‘i’s ranching industry. The Hawaiian cowboys who mastered these skills became known as paniolo, a term believed to have evolved from the Hawaiian pronunciation of español (Spanish). Over time, the paniolo developed a distinct and vibrant culture that blended Native Hawaiian traditions with the influences of Mexican vaqueros. Known for their woven lauhala (pandanus leaf ) hats, colorful palaka (checkered) shirts, and flower lei, paniolo became symbols of resilience, horsemanship, and pride. Music, storytelling, and oral tradition were essential to their way of life, preserving the history, values, and experiences of generations who worked the ranch lands of Hawai‘i. The work itself required exceptional courage and skill. Early paniolo faced the dangerous task of tracking, roping, and corralling wild cattle that often weighed more than 1,000 pounds and could be extremely aggressive. Their expertise transformed a growing agricultural crisis into a thriving ranching industry and established a cultural legacy that remains an enduring part of Hawai‘i’s identity. Despite their renown throughout Hawai‘i, the paniolo tradition remained largely unknown in the continental United States until 1908. The opportunity to introduce Hawaiian cowboys to a wider audience came after rancher Eben “Rawhide Ben” Low attended the prestigious Cheyenne Frontier Days in Wyoming the year before. Established in 1897, the annual rodeo and Western celebration attracted thousands of spectators eager to witness the finest cowboys competing in tests of skill, speed, and horsemanship. Convinced that

Paniolo loading cattle on ships at Kīholo Bay, 1922

‘Ulupalaka Ranch

Roundup at Parker Ranch

Hawai‘i paniolo could hold their own against the best of the American West, Low organized and personally financed a journey to Cheyenne for Ikua Purdy, his half-brother Archie Ka‘au‘a, and his brother Jack Low. When the Hawaiian delegation arrived in Wyoming, they drew immediate attention. Before crowds numbering in the thousands, the paniolo entered the arena wearing flower lei, floppy lauhala hats, and traditional riding attire, presenting a striking image unlike anything the spectators had ever seen. What began as curiosity quickly turned to admiration. Competing atop borrowed horses and under drizzling skies, Purdy delivered a historic performance in the steer roping world championship, roping, throwing, and tying his steer in just 56 seconds, using only 60 feet of rope. Archie Ka‘au‘a placed third while Jack Low finished sixth, completing an extraordinary showing for the Hawaiian team. The victory electrified the crowd and challenged long-held assumptions about the cowboy culture of the American West. Newspapers carried accounts of the remarkable Hawaiian cowboys whose skill, confidence, and sportsmanship had captivated Cheyenne audiences. For the first time, the paniolo tradition had earned national recognition. When Purdy, Ka‘au‘a, and Low returned home, they were welcomed as heroes. Thousands gathered at the docks to greet them, and celebrations erupted across Hawai‘i Island and Maui. Their feats were soon set to music in “Waiomina,” Hawaiian for Wyoming, a song that dubbed Purdy and Ka‘au‘a rascals of the lariat. Their success was more than a sporting achievement; it was a moment of immense

pride for Hawai‘i, proving that a uniquely Hawaiian tradition could stand alongside the most celebrated cowboys in the world. Following his triumph, Purdy settled in ‘Ulupalakua on Maui, where he resumed the life he knew best, working as a paniolo at ‘Ulupalakua Ranch. Though he never returned to the continent to defend his title, he remained a respected figure in Hawai‘i’s ranching community until his death in 1945. Yet Purdy’s story did not end there. In 1999, he was inducted into the Rodeo Hall of Fame at the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum and became the inaugural inductee into the Paniolo Hall of Fame. Four years later, a towering bronze statue depicting Purdy amid a championship roping run was unveiled in his hometown of Waimea, ensuring that future generations would remember the cowboy who carried Hawai‘i onto the world stage. More than a century after his victory in Cheyenne, Ikua Purdy remains a symbol of courage, perseverance, and Hawaiian pride. His championship run lasted less than a minute, but his impact has endured for generations. Through his achievement, he elevated the paniolo from a regional tradition to an internationally recognized legacy, proving that greatness can emerge from even the most remote corners of the world. Today, his name is spoken with reverence among cowboys and ranching families alike, and his story continues to inspire those who value hard work, humility, and the fearless spirit that defines Hawai‘i’s paniolo heritage.

PHOTO COURTESY: DOUGLAS PEEBLES PHOTOGRAPHY

Their feats were soon set to music in “Waiomina,” a song that dubbed Purdy and Ka‘au‘a rascals of the lariat.

Ikua Purdy statue at Parker Ranch Center, Waimea

WILD – at – HEART On Mauna Loa’s southern slopes, the Kahuku Unit offers a rare glimpse of Hawai‘i’s lava fields, native forest, and birdsong words SARA STOVER images ANDREW RICHARD HARA

tretching across the remote, southwestern slopes of Mauna Loa is the Kahuku Unit of Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park. From rolling green pastures and rugged lava fields to pockets of native Hawaiian rainforest, geology and agriculture have left their stamp on this 116,000-acre landscape, which has been part of the park since 2003. Before it belonged to the National Park Service, however, most of the Kahuku Unit was in the 184,298acre Kahuku Ahupua‘a, the biggest traditional land division in Hawai‘i and the domain of King Kamehameha I and his family. Since the late 1700s, Native Hawaiians have traveled to Kahuku’s uplands, hunting birds for food and feathers, and wild cattle, goats, and pigs for household use and for trade.

Today, it’s free to visit the Kahuku Unit, known for hiking trails featuring mowedgrass paths, dramatic ascents and descents, punctuated by breathtaking views. By the mid-1800s, Hawaiians foraged there for ‘iliahi (sandalwood) and pulu (tree fern fiber) to sell on the international market. The pulu, wood, and wild cattle attracted attorney and entrepreneur Charles Coffin Harris, who bought the entire ahupua‘a (land division) from King Kamehameha IV in 1861. Harris then sold the land to Theophilus Brown a few years later, and his brother, Captain Robert Brown, managed the historic ranch until one fateful day in 1868. On March 27, Mauna Loa, Earth’s largest active volcano, woke from her slumber. By April 7, lava began pouring out of a fissure on the Kahuku Ranch. At the time, Captain Brown was living in the main ranch house. The lava advanced so quickly that he, his wife, and their nine children narrowly escaped death. Within a few hours, the 1-mile-wide lava flow reached the ocean, burying Captain Brown’s home in the process. In 1871, Brown sold Kahuku and its livestock to Ka‘ū entrepreneurs who established Kahuku Ranch Co., bringing the ranch back from the brink of devastation and returning it to active agricultural use. By the 1900s, Kahuku was producing such large quantities of beef and hides that it caught the attention of Parker Ranch, which acquired it in 1912. After a century of property buyouts, Kahuku Ranch ultimately became part of Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park. Today, it’s free to visit the Kahuku Unit, known for hiking trails featuring mowed-grass paths, dramatic ascents and descents, punctuated by breathtaking views. Whether you’re a birder or a hiker, wear sturdy hiking boots or trail shoes and bring water with you for your Kahuku adventure. Consider starting at the visitor contact station

to learn more about the unit’s cultural, historical, and ecological significance and familiarize yourself with trails like Pu‘u o Lokuana Trail. This 2-mile loop along historic ranch roads takes you to a hidden pasture where wide open spaces invite you to breathe the wild air and imagine cattle roaming the ranch’s pastures. Along the way, you’ll pass lava flows and tree molds from the eruption of 1868. It’s believed the Brown family’s home lies somewhere beneath the 1868 lava flow. For a shorter but more challenging excursion, follow signs for the Pu‘u o Lokuana Cinder Cone. The highlight of this loop, which is less than 1 mile, is the climb to the top of the cinder cone. On the backside is where you’ll see all that remains of the secret Kahuku Radar Station built by the U.S. military in the 1940s, which included a tower atop Pu‘u o Lokuana that was decommissioned in 1947. If you’re looking for an easy hike through verdant meadows, take Kamakapa‘a Trail to the top of a small cinder cone where soaring views of the ocean and the Ka‘ū coastline await. Palm Trail and Pali o Ka‘eo Trail also offer unforgettable panoramas. Palm Trail is a 2.6-mile loop that leads through pastoral terrain, past volcanic features along the 1868 fissure, and across the main lava channel. Meander through serene woodland atop a steep slope by taking Pali o Ka‘eo Trail. To make it a 2.1-mile loop, return by taking a portion of the Pit Crater Trail and road. To hike the entire Pit Crater Trail, begin at the trailhead until you reach the Rapid ‘Ōhi‘a Death (ROD) Quarantine Gate. Before and after your hike, clean your footwear at the decontamination station here to prevent the spread of ROD, a

destructive fungal disease that’s killing precious, native ‘ōhi‘a lehua trees. After climbing up 2.4 miles of old pasture roads, the Pit Crater Trail will hit the Glover Trail, which leads you to the edge of the Forested Pit Crater, where you can gaze at the lush Hawaiian rainforest growing within its craggy walls. From the Forested Pit Crater, you can also access the Spur Trail and follow it directly to a lava flow from a 1926 eruption that swallowed up Kahuku’s new pastureland. Return the way you came or continue onto Upper Glover Trail, which was named for James Glover, who bought Kahuku from Parker Ranch in 1947. After building fences, roads, and a water system, Glover sold the property to the Damon Estate, which in turn sold it to the National Park Service 45 years later. By following the Glover Trail signs, you’ll traverse 2.7 miles, passing cattle corrals and other remnants of Kahuku’s ranching heritage on your way back to Pit Crater Trail. If this hike isn’t challenging enough for you, follow signs for the Kona Trail. This 4.6-mile loop trail is defined by the hardened basalt of the 1887 lava flow, which reached the ocean in less than a day, as well as tenacious ‘ōhi‘a lehua trees reclaiming the land. Roaming the trails of the Kahuku Unit is

almost certain to work up an appetite, so pack a light lunch or snacks. At the picnic area that is 1.2 miles before the ROD Quarantine Gate, take a well-earned break and note how the undeveloped coastline offers a striking contrast against the windmills at Ka Lae (South Point) turning in the unrelenting trade winds. Bulldozing, burning, seeding invasive species, fertilizing, overgrazing, eruptions, extraction, and alterations have all taken their toll on a land whose towering native trees were once the source of timber for King Kamehameha I’s outrigger canoes. Fortunately, native koa, ‘ōhi‘a lehua, ‘a‘ali‘i, and Ka‘ū silversword have been planted on the former cattle ranch, restoring its natural habitat and helping preserve its rare ecosystems. Today, Kahuku’s hills are alive with the spirit of resilience and the sound of crimson ‘apapane, endangered Hawai‘i ‘ākepa, and other forest birds singing from the branches of majestic native trees once again. Kahuku Unit, Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park; off Highway 11 at the 70.5-mile marker; Thursday–Sunday, 8 a.m.–4 p.m.; nps.gov/havo/ planyourvisit/kahuku

ISLAND CANVAS Hawai‘i Island’s creative community finds inspiration in ancestry, materials, and a deep sense of place words SARA STOVER images RINA MAE TABAFUNDA

po Aquino carefully strips some bark off a kukui tree growing on the side of Hualālai Road. An ancient wind blows down from the mountain, ruffling the tree’s silverygreen leaves and whispering of a time when his ancestors traveled this same road. Apo is a Native Hawaiian fisherman, but lately, he has been spending more time gathering bark, leaves, bulbs, and shrubs for his handcrafted ‘upena (fishing nets) than actually fishing. From creating cordage using the bark of the hau tree and dyeing it with kukui or wild indigo picked from fields where his ancestors once dwelled, to weaving it into an actual ‘upena, every piece is made by hand and inspired by Apo’s ancestors. “Fishing is always going to be within me, but now is a time for me to teach others how things were done in the past,” says Apo. “It’s in my blood to do this. My pieces represent my ancestry as a Hawaiian artist.” Growing up in Kona, Apo has fished its deep, warm waters his entire life, just as his family has for generations. At a young age, he was taught to fish by his father and uncles. “My father made the ‘upena. I couldn’t stay still,

so I caught the fish. Years later, I wanted to get back into making nets, so I took out the one my father made for me and removed all of the lead from it. Then I hung it up, studied it, and made some nets like it for people to fish with.” In Apo’s hands, this ancestral practice of weaving a practical ‘upena has become an art form. But that wasn’t his intention … “One day, someone came into Kona Town Hui, the studio I have with my wife, and asked to buy a net I made … but not to fish with. He said, ‘A real Hawaiian made this net, and I’m going to show it as art in my home!’ That’s how this all started,” says Apo, who now weaves ‘upena to share his knowledge and talent in classes and art galleries to keep Hawaiian culture alive. “I brought my 8-foot, kukui-dyed ‘upena from Kona Town Hui and stretched it out in the lobby of the Mauna Lani, Auberge Collection, to make sure it looks right here. I also made an ‘upena I dyed blue using indigo.” Around 1836, indigo was introduced to Hawai‘i and still grows wild in the ahupua‘a (traditional land division) of Kalaoa Makai, in Hawai‘i Island’s Kona District, where Apo collects it and uses the

Apo Aquino

leaves for dye. “I get to practice an art that is thousands of years old,” says Apo. “I hope my ancestors are proud that I am carrying on this tradition.” Apo is one of several contemporary Hawai‘i artists whose connection to the island inspires them to share their craft. “There’s a generosity of spirit in Hawai‘i that runs through the artists and their works,” says Tiffany DeEtte Shafto, a storyteller, curator, and Hawai‘i artist herself. Over the past two decades, she has watched artists working across immensely different mediums and origins draw inspiration from the islands. Shortly after Tiffany and her husband, Timothy Allan Shafto, relocated from the Bay Area to Hawai‘i in 2004, they felt a strong pull toward Hawaiian koa wood. Together, they transformed the tropical hardwood into jewelry boxes and furniture, using their hands to bring their designs to life. To be closer to the source of this endemic Hawaiian wood, the couple moved from Kaua‘i to Hawai‘i Island in 2007 and joined the thriving Hawai‘i Wood Guild. The welcoming community inspired Tiffany to document the works and stories of Hawai‘i’s award-winning woodworkers through her book, Contemporary Hawai‘i Woodworkers: the Wood, the Art, the Aloha. “That book led me to a research project looking at the economic and social impact of

Hawai‘i Island artists on behalf of a grant I wrote for Volcano Art Center. I met over 500 island artists, including Kathy Long and her husband Bertil,” says Tiffany. “They invited Tim and me to participate in a pop-up art event at the Four Seasons Resort Hualālai, which evolved into a full-time, artist-run gallery.” It was here that Tiffany witnessed Timothy’s drive to create. “When the waves of inspiration wash over him, he can’t ignore the ideas. Once they are given to him, he must find a way to bring them to life. So when the opportunity at Hualālai ended in 2014, I told Tim to keep going in his new direction,” Tiffany recalls. “We support one another’s dreams and do our best to help bring them to life. Tim is the one who encouraged me to follow my calling, helping people create beautiful environments with local art by opening a gallery more than a decade ago.” “My mixed-media paintings began around the same time because I wanted to honor the beauty of Hawaiian koa wood in a new way,” says Timothy, an award-winning woodworker who combines koa with “colorflow” abstract mixedmedia painting, mounted in integral wood frames. “Endemic to the islands and found nowhere else in the world, koa has become scarcer over the past 20 years, salvaged only from dead, fallen, and dying trees.”

Timothy Shafto (Opposite) Apo Aquino

“Hawai‘i is rich with local artists like Tim, inspired by this incredible environment and all its stories and connections — and I’ve had a front-row seat,” says Tiffany, who has a by-appointment private gallery in Hāwī, Tiffany’s Art Agency, where she serves as a bridge between the collector community and Hawai‘i’s community of visual artists. Uruguayan-born Valeria Mastrascusa wasn’t even 5 years old when her grandmother began teaching her both the art of painting and the sacred meanings of all arts. This kindled a passion that burned brighter as Valeria shadowed artists in Uruguay, studied graphic design, and worked in the fashion industry. “Twenty years ago, I moved to Miami and got away from my own art. Then I moved to Hawai‘i seven years ago, and my sister suggested that I paint again. There must have been something in the air, because once I started, I couldn’t stop. There’s a creative energy here that makes me feel the need to paint every day,” says Valeria. Valeria captures the transcendent beauty and

mana (spiritual energy) she sees in the natural world through oil paintings that primarily depict seascapes, sunsets, and ephemeral moments when water and sky blend. “I take tons of photos at the beach of the light coming through the waves or sunset. Sometimes I’m there with my family, and my nephews might be running around, having fun, but it’s calm at the same time. Then I grab my brush when I get home and try to translate it all — the movement and stillness, the colors and light and shadows, and how everything made me feel,” Valeria says. “From the ocean to the sunset, I see a wider range of colors here in Hawai‘i. In my mind, they combine into the blues and greens of the waves and the trees’ leaves that I paint. That’s where I see my grandmother’s influence,” says Valeria, whose rich creative heritage has merged with her experience in Hawai‘i, influencing the colors and styles she chooses. “Oranges and reds have also been resonating with me lately. That’s the influence of Hawai‘i and its sunsets.”

Valeria Mastrascusa (Opposite) Christian Enns

Award-winning surfer Christian Enns’ oil painting of Hāpuna Beach is missing something, and it’s not color. “My art speaks to the positivity I feel across Hawai‘i Island. You can see the light and color of these inspiring places, like Hāpuna. But sometimes I leave out the infrastructure to focus on how Hawai‘i was before all the development,” says Christian, who has studied art in over 30 countries. “For the past 20 years, Hawai‘i has been the center of my universe, shaping my craftsmanship and philosophy as an artist. The island is growing and living, which gives me the confidence to express myself through bold colors and big pieces.” Christian’s work is a direct response to the profound connection he feels to the world around him in moments when a golden sunrise sets wet leaves ablaze with its glow or his ancestors send him the perfect wave to catch. As he looks to shore, the sense that those he has lost are looking over him — his grandfather, parents, and brother — and the richness of Hawai‘i’s landscapes from the water often move him to

paint plein air back at the water’s edge. “I use my works to translate the islands’ light, energy, and spiritual resonance into oil paintings that move between representational and imagination,” Christian says. After using preliminary drawings and smaller studies to uncover the foundational elements and colors that will define a piece, he constructs his own panels and canvases. Christian then establishes a composition through line drawing before employing an underpainting technique to reveal the emerging image and painting alla prima, a wet-on-wet technique that uses thick oil paint. Drawing inspiration from the curves of surfboards, Christian also elevates koa and other exotic woods into large-scale sculptures that embody both the spirit of surfing, with deep roots in Hawai‘i, and the beauty of nature. “In May 2026, I won the Hawai‘i State Surfing Championship riding my own hand-crafted shape,” Christian shares. “In that moment, decades of surfing, craftsmanship, and artistic dedication united into a single achievement.”

To see Hilo artist Kristie Fujiyama Kosmides’ piece Serenity & Strength, you’d never guess that she once struggled with painting water elements, as the oil painting embodies the energy of the ocean. While painting a large piece commissioned by Honolulu’s Daniel K. Inouye International Airport years earlier, however, she decided it was a study she needed to master. For five years, Kristie only painted water, finally moving on to a five-panel oil painting commissioned by the Hilo International Airport. Her friend, videographer Tracey Niimi, introduced Kristie to ‘ukulele virtuoso Jake Shimabukuro in 2020, and the three began a cross-disciplinary collaboration for the airport called Eyes of the I‘iwi. While Kristie painted, Jake penned a song of the same name and even painted some of the under layers of the piece, and Tracey captured the experience on video. That collaboration inspired Jake to pick up a

paintbrush and lose himself in his second piece, Perseverance, which is a display of vivid colors moving across the canvas. Kristie, who has shifted into abstract painting, has also launched Abstract Collab with Jake. The two artists bring 10 people into the studio to an immersive, unrehearsed world where creative energy is unleashed. Some guests join Kristie in expressing themselves on a massive canvas, and others stomp pedals to adapt the sound of the music Jake creates. Once completed, every work of art is preserved and added to the Abstract Collab Collection, creating a growing body of work to be shared with the island community. “One day, the 19-year-old son of some wonderful collectors approached me after a 15-minute conversation with Jake saying, ‘I get art now! I hear it!’” says Tiffany. “I realized that for some people, color has certain sounds and helps them

Marcia Ray (Opposite) Kristie Kosmides

understand and feel abstract work. It’s amazing!” Waimea-based visual artist Margo Ray was on a hike in the pristine forest of the Kohala Watershed when the contrast of the blooming Native Hawaiian ‘ōhi‘a lehua along the dry, abandoned ditch moved her to stop and take some photographs. The images became the inspiration for her piece All the Tears I Have Yet to Cry, Kohala Ditch, part of a series focusing on the relationship between man-made infrastructure and nature. “The ‘ōhi‘a lehua are a critical plant to our Hawaiian forests and watershed, but they’re in danger due to disease and invasive species. This work is an homage to them,” Margo says of the eye-catching, mixed-media piece featuring ‘ōhi‘a lehua blossoms kissing a pastel sky. “Being born on O‘ahu and raised on Hawai‘i Island has given me a heightened awareness of both solitude and connection, which shapes

my work. In my paintings and collages, I weave imagery of rural infrastructure that communicates this solitude into layered landscapes that explore the interplay of natural, spiritual, and built environments,” says Margo, whose iconography draws from the landscapes of Hawai‘i and Japan, where she lives part-time, filtered through her energetic and spiritual interpretations of place. Margo is also creating a research-driven series to highlight the pathways and waterways at Mauna Lani, featuring the traditional Hawaiian Lāhuipua‘a and Ka‘ai‘ōpio fishponds and the mākāhā (sluice gates that regulate fish flow) found on the resort’s grounds. “It is rare to find spaces on the island with large, white walls like those at the resort,” Margo points out. “Since my work is detailed, colorful, and done on a large scale, this environment allows viewers to fully appreciate it without visual distraction.”

Mark Ley

At the heart of the 34-acre oceanfront Mauna Lani, Auberge Collection property is Kalāhuipua‘a, an area of approximately 15 acres that includes the six ancient, ocean-fed fishponds inspiring Margo’s research-driven series. For centuries, Kalāhuipua‘a was a sacred site, a summer home for Hawaiian royalty, and a fabled retreat. Here, Kamehameha the Great mastered the art of aquaculture in the fishponds, and former landowner Francis H. I‘i Brown connected with his Hawaiian ancestry at the Eva Parker Woods Cottage, a 19th-century home built on land originally owned by the Parker family that still sits on the resort’s grounds. Today, individuals rooted in a quest for mastery of their own art are represented across open spaces throughout the hotel. Meaning, “mountain reaching heaven,” Mauna Lani is a giant, blank canvas for an array of aesthetics and media. “Hawai‘i is rich with people who value local art and how it makes them feel in their homes and businesses — connected, inspired, uplifted — but it can be hard to find. So, I’m creating a large, living art gallery in collaboration with Mauna Lani, where many of the voices from our 54

artistic community come into conversation,” says Tiffany, who is painstakingly curating artwork inspired by the colors, textures, and vibe of Hawai‘i that complements the resort’s legacy. “I’m transforming unadorned walls throughout the resort into pockets of discovery, creating a sense of wonder for the viewers with works that resonate together, inspired by the ocean, ‘āina (land), and sky.” Art enthusiasts can enjoy a self-guided art walk through the gallery, discovering an ever-rotating collection of original works by local artists from across the state of Hawai‘i. Art inspired by the energy of the ocean accentuates the first floor. Surf aesthetics are at home on the fourth and fifth floors, where artwork moves viewers from the ocean to land. On the sixth floor, Tiffany has chosen to lean toward the abstract, taking us up above the palm trees and out into a land of ethereal dreaming. Some areas around the walkways are untouched by artwork, however, and with good reason: “I want to honor the natural beauty of this place by not being overly busy,” Tiffany says.

“Our partnership with Tiffany’s Art Agency gives us the opportunity to honor Hawai‘i’s vibrant creative community in a truly meaningful way,” adds General Manager of Mauna Lani, Auberge Collection, Pete Alles. “By providing a space for local artists to share their work, we invite guests to experience the spirit and beauty of the islands through their eyes at Mauna Lani.” Sea glass, black sand beaches, and rip currents pull you into the fourth floor of the Mauna Lani, where painter and printmaker Mary Spears uses hand-painted paper to create captivating texture and exaggerated movement reminiscent of block printing, painting, mosaic, and the ocean itself. Inspired by the mosaics of Pompeii, Mary uses the color and playfulness of tiny pieces of torn paper, assembled into tropical fine-art collages, to evoke a feeling of whimsy. Inspired by gyotaku, the traditional Japanese art of fish printing, Mark Ley dips fins and surfboards he finds while scouring Hawai‘i Island’s beaches and reefs into acrylic paint and then presses them onto paper. Pieces like Au Moana, which is on display in Mauna Lani’s upper

lobby, memorialize abandoned boards and the ocean explorers they once belonged to. As guests come and go from Mauna Lani, they pass two of Apo’s ‘upena, intentionally selected to frame the entry. Inspired by the beauty of the blue ocean, Polū ‘Ekolu’s netting is made with cotton cordage and tied together with many knots. Representing Apo’s first large cordage art piece made outside of the functional ‘upena style, Kukui ‘Ekahi (which means “one”) is made with kukuidyed cotton cordage. “Artists are always documenting a time and place in their work through the use of an array of materials, styles, and colors,” Tiffany says. “In Hawai‘i, this includes talented ‘upena weavers, painters, and woodworkers. Being able to show Apo’s traditional knowledge through the art of his hand-woven fishnets on the walls of Mauna Lani feels like just the right connection to weave their shared inspiration together.” Tiffany’s Art Agency, Hāwī; by appointment; tiffanysartagency.com. Self-guided art walk open to guests of Mauna Lani, Auberge Collection. 55

DESTINATION KAWAIHAE words & images RINA MAE TABAFUNDA

At the base of majestic, enduring Kohala Mountain along the island’s northwestern coast lies a golden, arid landscape that appears to yearn for the deep blue waters beating against its shores. This is Kawaihae — a place where rugged beauty, maritime heritage, and local character converge subtly.

Though Kawaihae ranks among the driest areas in Hawai‘i, receiving an average of just 10 inches of rain each year, it offers its own quiet abundance. Home to one of the island’s vital shipping harbors, this small but unique place blends industrial grit with island rhythm. And beneath its unassuming surface is a history as deep as its waters. Understated, sun-drenched, and refreshingly off the beaten path, Kawaihae offers a striking contrast to Hawai‘i Island’s lush landscapes and bustling resorts, bringing depth, nuance, and authenticity to any Hawai‘i Island itinerary. Start your Kawaihae adventure at Seabird Coffee Company. The gleaming chrome Airstream trailer is almost impossible to miss. Newly opened yet already magnetic, this retro-modern café is equal parts specialty coffee shop and design statement. On a balmy morning, fuel up on an iced drink like the Honey Butter Latte, topped with silky Hawaiian sea salt cold foam, or sip on a Haupia Mocha. Roasted right here on Hawai‘i Island, the coffee is noticeably smooth, refined, beautifully balanced, and will surely help you soar through the day. Perhaps the best way to experience Kawaihae is on the water itself. Don’t let the shipping containers and fuel depots around the port fool you — Kawaihae isn’t just for cargo. It’s a gateway to some of the island’s most unforgettable ocean excursions. Whether you’re hoping to immerse yourself in the coast’s underwater wonderland or simply admire the dramatic Kohala coastline from the sea, Holoholo Kai Charters offers a luxury experience

at sea on board the stunning ‘Ālohilohi. Book an intimate custom charter for whale watching during the winter months, experience the thrill of reeling in trophy fish, or enjoy a guided snorkel in pristine, secluded reefs only accessible by boat. Captains Tyson and Sue-Lang ensure an experience that is authentic, never touristy. Back on land and while the sun is still low, explore one of Hawai‘i’s most significant historic sites — Pu‘ukoholā Heiau National Historic Site. Before King Kamehameha I unified the islands, powerful ali‘i nui (high chiefs) fought for control. A kahuna (priest) told Kamehameha that if he were to build a heiau, or temple, at Pu‘ukoholā dedicated to his family war god, Kūkā‘ilimoku, he would conquer all the islands. To construct the massive heiau, thousands, including Kamehameha himself, formed a human chain, by some accounts nearly 25 miles long, passing water-worn stones hand to hand from Pololū Valley across Kohala Mountain to this very site. Shortly after the temple’s completion in 1791, Kamehameha invited rival chief Keōua to Kawaihae under the pretense of peace. As Keōua stepped ashore, he was speared and slain, paving the way for Kamehameha to consolidate his control over Hawai‘i Island and, eventually, leading to the unification of all of Hawai‘i. Today, you can stand where a kingdom was born. An easy half-mile trail passes through the site, offering sweeping coastal views and a chance to trace Kamehameha’s legacy in the very landscape that changed Hawaiian history.

Twelve miles north, another historic treasure awaits at Lapakahi State Historical Park. Wander through the remnants of a village settled more than 600 years ago. Lapakahi was a place of maka‘āinana — fishermen and farmers. A semirocky 0.8-mile trail winds past various hale (homes), canoe sheds, and religious sites. If you’re eager to connect with the sea as the village’s earliest residents once did, snorkeling is also possible off sheltered Koai‘e Cove, teeming with abundant marine life and coral. Lapakahi offers an opportunity to envision life in ancient Hawai‘i, where families relied on the ocean, cultivated the ‘āina (land), and practiced traditions that sustained their community for generations. After walking in the footsteps of Hawai‘i’s ancient settlers and greatest chiefs, return to town for one of Kawaihae’s greatest pleasures: fresh seafood. For an authentic taste, head to Hale I‘a Da Fish House, a fresh seafood market

and counter that locals might prefer to keep to themselves. Create a poke bowl with your selection from the day’s catch, often ‘ahi (yellowfin tuna), marlin, and ‘ono (wahoo). Kawaihae is surrounded by some of the island’s richest fishing grounds, and this gem, currently tucked inside Kawaihae Marketplace, showcases the exceptional quality of the Kohala Coast’s seafood. Another quick take-out lunch option is just a few doors away at Kawaihae Kitchen. They serve fresh sushi rolls and bento boxes with big local flavor. It’s another great place to grab a meal to enjoy along the harbor or at a nearby beach. For an ocean-to-table meal infused with trattoria energy, settle in at Cipriano’s Kitchen. This familyrun operation blends Italian cuisine with local seafood, creating sublime dishes. Treat yourself to the Squid Ink Tagliatelle with Kona lobster, calamari, Kaua‘i shrimp, and clams. Vibrant and delicious, it rivals — if not surpasses — pasta dishes found along Italy’s Amalfi Coast. The coconut lemonade with liliko‘i (passion fruit) and the decadent chocolate-pistachio crème brûlée set a new bar. Before you leave, you’ll be planning a return visit in a few days with your next dish already picked out and wishing you could be adopted into the family.

If seafood does not call, make your way to K.O. Pizza for giant 20-inch thin-crust New York–style pies and oversized slices. A more extensive menu is available at their brick-and-mortar location about 20 minutes away in Hāwī, but at this Kawaihae pizza truck, the focus is on classic slices and a rotating daily special. The crust is crisp, light, yet perfectly chewy, as it should be. Right from the custom-designed truck built by owners Kelly and Oliver, watch the team hand-stretch dough and craft each pie like artisans. The menu may be simple, but the flavors pack a punch — fitting for a place named K.O. “Knockout” Pizza. Long before modern cargo ships and charter boats filled the harbor, this stretch of coastline served as an important center of trade and commerce. In the late 18th and early 19th centuries, Kawaihae emerged as a busy port for foreign merchant vessels seeking Hawai‘i’s prized sandalwood, and later a frequent stop for whaling ships navigating the Pacific. Today, traces of that entrepreneurial spirit remain woven into the distinctly local products you can find here. For a taste of one of Hawai‘i Island’s most beloved agricultural products, stop by Hāmākua Macadamia Nut Company’s Visitor Center. Sample some of their 14 unique macadamia nut flavors, like Butter

Rum Glaze and Chili Peppah, while learning about one of the island’s most important modern crops. You can also take a peek behind the scenes at their cannery. And for a needed pause from the heat, grab an indulgent scoop of Tropical Dreams ice cream from one of the sweet aunties in the shop. Just minutes away, the Harbor Gallery offers a different kind of local discovery and a little shopping. Representing more than 150 Hawai‘i Island artists since 1990, the gallery celebrates the creativity, culture, and sense of place that define the island. Highlights include beautiful woodwork, wall art, high-fired ceramics, and vintage aloha wear. If you’re searching for a meaningful keepsake or an authentic piece of Hawai‘i craftsmanship to bring home, have Gunner or Ellie, the shop’s owners, help you browse through the curated collection. After a day spent exploring Kawaihae’s history, coastline, and local businesses, there’s no better place to unwind than at Seafood Bar & Grill, where locals and visitors alike gather for standout happy hours. The restaurant’s unique tiki bar with its nautical theming creates a fun, laid-back ambience that feels quintessentially old Hawai‘i. It’s the kind of place that instantly transports you to a different corner of Polynesia. Pair a mai tai or another tropical cocktail with impeccably fresh sashimi

or one of the nightly seafood specials. Like the town itself, the menu reflects the diverse cultural influences that have helped shape Kawaihae, from Hawaiian fishing traditions and Asian flavors to American comfort food. The result is an eclectic dining experience that invites you to stay awhile. As the sun begins to set, igniting the sky with brilliant shades of gold, orange, and pink, follow the music to Blue Dragon Tavern & Cosmic Musiquarium. During the day, you may have noticed that Kawaihae is pretty quiet for a working harbor town, but this open-air music venue is where things liven up with a rotating lineup of Hawai‘i Island musicians and touring acts. Whether it’s slack-key guitar, reggae, jazz, or a local band filling the night air, here is the perfect place to dance beneath the stars and close out your Kawaihae journey. Kawaihae is far more than an industrial harbor, a small port town, or a quick stop. Those who linger are richly rewarded. From well-preserved historical sites to harbor-front eateries, local shops, memorable ocean adventures, and other hidden gems, Kawaihae offers an effortless experience full of discovery. May this destination anchor you to its shores long after you’ve departed.

Seabird Coffee Company; 61-3655 ‘Akoni Pule Highway, Kawaihae; (808) 557-0806; Open Monday– Saturday, 7 a.m.–2 p.m.; seabirdcoffeeco.com

Holoholo Kai Charters; Departs South Kawaihae Small Boat Harbor, Kawaihae; (808) 481-2813; Tours by reservation; holoholokai.com

Pu‘ukoholā Heiau National Historic Site; 62-3601 Kawaihae Road, Kawaihae; (808) 882-7218; Visitor center open daily 8:30 a.m.–4:30 p.m.; nps.gov/puhe

Hāmākua Macadamia Nut Company; 61-3251 Maluokalani Street, Kawaihae; (808) 882-1690; Visitor center is open daily, 9 a.m.–4:30 p.m.; hamakuamacnut.com

Lapakahi State Historical Park; ‘Akoni Pule Highway (Highway 270), North Kohala; Open daily, 8 a.m.–3:30 p.m.; gates lock at 4 p.m.; dlnr.hawaii. gov/dsp/parks/hawaii/lapakahi-state-historicalpark Hale I‘a Da Fish House; Located in Kawaihae Marketplace, 61-3665 Kawaihae-Mahukona Road, Kawaihae; (808) 882-1052; Open Monday–Friday, 6 a.m.–5 p.m. and Saturday, 7 a.m.–5 p.m.; instagram. com/dafish.hse Cipriano’s Kitchen; 61-3642 Kawaihae Road, Kawaihae; (808) 657-4700; Open Monday– Friday, 8 a.m.–3 p.m. and Saturday 8 a.m.–2 p.m. and 4:30 p.m.–7:30 p.m.; Reservations required; ciprianoskitchenhawaii.com K.O. Pizza; 61-3638 Kawaihae Road, Kawaihae; (808) 313-0514; Open Thursday–Monday, 11 a.m.–8 p.m.; kopizzahawaii.com/truck-menu

Harbor Gallery; Located in Kawaihae Shopping Center, lower level; 61-3665 ‘Akoni Pule Highway, Kawaihae; (808) 882-1510; Open daily, 10 a.m.–6 p.m.; harborgallery.biz Seafood Bar & Grill; 61-3642 Kawaihae Road, Kawaihae; (808) 880-9393; Open Monday–Friday, 3 p.m.–9 p.m. and Saturday–Sunday, noon–9 p.m.; Happy hour daily, 3 p.m.–5 p.m.; seafoodbarandgrill.com Blue Dragon Tavern & Cosmic Musiquarium; 61-3616 Kawaihae Road, Kawaihae; (808) 8827771; Open Thursday–Sunday, 5 p.m.–10 p.m.; bluedragontavern.com Kawaihae Kitchen; Located in Kawaihae Shopping Center; 61-3665 ‘Akoni Pule Highway, Kawaihae; (808) 882-1511; Open Monday–Friday, 11 a.m.–2 p.m.; For takeout, call to order

SECOND FLIGHT A Kealakekua sanctuary gives rescued parrots a second chance at trust and a home words SARA STOVER images RINA MAE TABAFUNDA

chaotic symphony of chatter, laughing, yelling, and singing echoes across the 80 acres of Parrots in Paradise, a former macadamia nut farm that is now a sanctuary for parrots of every size and color. Coney, an adorable galah cockatoo, whispers, “What ya doing?” in response to anyone who whispers it to her. Casper, an umbrella cockatoo, prefers to shout above the racket. “He’s calling for me to come hold his hand, which is actually a remarkably dexterous foot,” says Dorothy Walsh, who cofounded the nonprofit Parrots in Paradise in 2003 with her husband, Jerry Walsh. “Casper was a very different bird when he came to us. He had a traumatic experience and was missing a toe,” Dorothy recalls. Unloved and ignored, he left that experience defensive and angry. “But I knew that underneath the aggression, rage, biting, and screaming was an emotionally exhausted parrot who was suffering and scared.” Casper is one of the many parrots that have been welcomed to Parrots in Paradise with bottomless patience, a healthy dose of caution, and a belief that

even the most contentious parrots deserve love and the opportunity to be safe, be seen … and be heard! On the lush grounds of this parrot rescue, rehabilitation, education, and adoption center in Kealakekua, displaced parrots — each with their own unique voice and distinctive plumage — find solace and care while living in open-air aviaries. Unlike traditional indoor cages, these large, secure enclosures enable the parrots to enjoy fresh air, sunlight, and space to spread their wings and even fly. “But during the last big storm, we had to bring many of them inside in the middle of the night,” says Dorothy, recalling the onslaught of damaging wind and rain from a kona low — a winter storm that sweeps in from the south. For over two decades, the sanctuary has provided safe shelter for the parrots, and in these extreme situations, the safest place is in the Walshes’ own home. “Jerry and I didn’t always call Hawai‘i home. We both grew up in Southern California. As a kid, I never even had a pet, and I was actually allergic to birds. I guess I outgrew that!” says Dorothy. “If someone had 65

told me that I’d be living in Hawai‘i doing this after retiring as a nurse practitioner, I would have been shocked. But about 30 years ago, our daughter Erinn said something that changed the course of our lives.” At the time, Jerry had a garden center in Kainaliu, Hawai‘i. Nine-year-old Erinn noticed that people were surrendering their parrots to the center for an array of reasons, prompting her to declare that a sanctuary was needed. “I didn’t want to tell her it was a ridiculous idea. And we did have a few parrots, mostly lovebirds, brought to us by people who couldn’t care for them. So, we put a little ad in the paper saying, ‘If you need help with your parrots, call us,’” Dorothy says. “That’s when people started calling, saying things like, ‘My dad has parrots. He’s got cancer and he’s on his deathbed. I can’t take them. Can you help?’ We started getting so many calls that we had to form a nonprofit.” Today, there are around 125 exotic parrots — from petite parakeets to majestic macaws — who now live happy, healthy lives at the sanctuary, surrounded by other animals that the Walshes have also rescued. “At last count, there were peacocks, chickens, 21 goats, 15 sheep, four horses, two tortoises, five indoor cats, and Max the dog,” Jerry shares. Most are well adjusted to sanctuary life, despite the difficulties they’ve endured. Casper, however, is still a “handle with care” bird. “But recently, something extraordinary happened … Casper reached out to hold my hand. And once he grabbed on, he didn’t want to let go,” Dorothy shares. It’s these little moments of trust and healing that motivate the Walshes to continue protecting the parrots, even in the midst of life’s storms. “When gusts of up to 75 miles per hour from the kona low tore through the sanctuary, aviary roofs lifted and disappeared into the darkness,” says Dorothy. The smaller birds were safe riding out the storm in place. Others sheltered under the garage eaves. But for the bigger birds, the conditions were far too dangerous. One by one, Jerry, Dorothy, and their son Jerry

placed parrots into carriers and rushed them inside, where they set up heaters to keep them calm and dry. Soon, the house was full of 30 feathered rescues, including Kissie, the sanctuary’s mascot. A greater sulphur-crested cockatoo, Kissie was captured in Australia during a time when parrots were often brutally snatched from the wild for the pet trade. “Kissie’s wings were clipped, so she couldn’t fly away. She never got her balance back, so she has to use her beak to stabilize herself,” Dorothy says. Kissie had different homes, eventually landing on O‘ahu, where she lived with a loving, older caretaker for many years. When the caretaker passed away, his daughter traveled from Missouri to handle his affairs and personally flew Kissie to the sanctuary, so she could truly thrive. From the day she arrived, the cockatoo with a mohawk-like tuft was eager to perch on someone’s arm. “There’s not a person in the world that Kissie doesn’t love, so naturally, she became the sanctuary’s mascot,” Dorothy says as the aptly named Kissie gives her a parrot smooch. “I could have adopted her out 2,000 times already, but she is not up for adoption. She is exactly where she belongs.” The same can be said for Huli, another O‘ahu transplant. The hyacinth macaw once lived in a 300-square-foot apartment in Waikīkī with his sweet owner. “She’s 82 now. She wanted to make arrangements for Huli before something happened,” says Dorothy. Huli now dazzles visitors to the sanctuary with his periwinkle-blue feathers, accented by strokes of gold and crimson, and a wingspan of nearly 4 feet. And Dorothy calls his owner on O‘ahu nearly every week to give her updates. “This is so much bigger than being a refuge for parrots. Their companionpeople also need to be shown compassion as they make heartbreaking decisions about their parrots. Most of them are well-intentioned individuals who really love their birds but just can’t care for them any longer due to health or financial changes.”

“C’mere!” Huli calls, beckoning all to admire him, along with the other hyacinth macaws he shares an aviary with. Macaws remember faces and speak in ways that convey a range of emotions, from curiosity and joy to mischief and even sadness. “They should never have been in captivity. But now we can’t let them back out,” Dorothy says as Jerry feeds Huli a macadamia nut. “This is Boaz. I found him as an egg when his parents abandoned it,” Dorothy says, offering a blue-and-gold macaw a mac nut of his own. “I raised Boaz from a chick, syringe feeding him for four months.” The Walshes point out that all of this is possible because of donors, as well as volunteers who help pick mac nuts, rake leaves, and tidy aviary

areas, such as the one Sky calls home. A Goffin’s cockatoo, Sky, came to the sanctuary from a home filled with constant arguing and verbal abuse. If he made so much as a peep, his cage was hit to silence him. Over time, the stress was too much, and Sky began plucking his feathers to cope — a habit that he just might overcome now that the intelligent bird is surrounded by gentle hands and kind voices at the sanctuary. Through Parrots in Paradise, many of the most vulnerable birds who have been rescued and rehabilitated spend the day cruising around their aviaries, safe and loved, and watch the sun set into the ocean every night. They have a future ahead of them that’s as vibrant and bright as they are. Learn more at parrotsinparadise.org

CULINARY Q&A

TOP CHEF

From her grandmother’s food stall in the Philippines to a Top Chef title, CanoeHouse Executive Chef Rhoda Magbitang on the ingredients, culture, and hospitality that shape her cooking

words KRYSTAL KAKIMOTO

PHOTO COURTESY: (ALL) MAUNA LANI, AUBERGE COLLECTION

Take us back to those early mornings with your grandmother — what memories and dishes still stick with you? One of my favorite memories is going to the wet market with my grandmother. She always went very early, before the sun came up, because that’s when you got the best deals and could haggle with her regular vendors. She was a very quiet person, so we bonded through the work itself. We’d spend hours doing prep together, peeling garlic or removing annatto seeds from the pods we harvested from the tree at home. We’d dry them in the sun, and she would use them as a natural food coloring. I thought that was so fascinating as a kid. Another vivid memory is dicing kilos of fresh pork lungs for a dish called Bopis. She would poach them in a flavorful broth, and I was always so excited that I couldn’t even wait for them to cool down before helping. Bopis, a stew made with pork lungs, vinegar, and chilies, is still one of my favorite dishes today. What did your early training look like — culinary school, working the line, or a mix of both? It was definitely a mix. I attended Le Cordon Bleu in Pasadena, where I built a strong foundation. After that, I did what every young cook does: I worked my way up on the line. You start with the basic prep work, gradually earn more responsibility, and eventually run your own station. That combination of formal education and real kitchen experience gave me the fundamentals I still rely on today. What first drew you to Hawai‘i, both professionally and personally? I started working for Auberge Collection in 2021 during the pandemic, when I was hired to help open Mattei’s Tavern in Los Olivos, California. I really loved working for the company, and when the opportunity came up to join Mauna Lani on Hawai‘i Island, I jumped at it. The Big Island has always spoken to me. Ever since I first visited in 2021, it never really left my mind. I love the slower pace, the quieter lifestyle, and the connection to nature here.

Since becoming executive chef at CanoeHouse, how have you evolved the menu? I’ve approached it very slowly and strategically. CanoeHouse has always celebrated local ingredients, but I’ve continued expanding those relationships with local farms and producers, incorporating even more of what Hawai‘i grows into our everyday menu. It’s been an intentional evolution rather than a dramatic change. What has living and cooking in Hawai‘i taught you about ingredients, culture, and hospitality? Living here has given me an even deeper appreciation for local ingredients and for the people who grow them. Hawaiian culture is rooted in sharing and community, and you really experience that every day. People are incredibly generous with what they grow in their own backyards, and that generosity naturally extends into hospitality. There’s really nothing quite like it.

What was going through your mind when you heard your name announced as the winner of Top Chef Season 23? Relief. Disbelief. It all felt surreal. Everything happened so quickly, there was confetti, cheering, champagne, and I remember thinking I still had prosciutto stuck in my teeth. Thirty seconds after giving this emotional speech through tears, I was immediately pulled into interviews so they could capture that raw moment. It was everything I’d dreamed about, yet it all happened so fast that it almost didn’t feel real. How did you prepare, mentally and physically, for the challenges and filming of the show? Were there specific skills or techniques you intentionally practiced? I honestly don’t think there’s one specific way to prepare for Top Chef. In many ways, you’re preparing your entire career without realizing it. I memorized recipes and pastry ratios, but beyond that, nothing can truly replicate the experience of competing. Everything you’ve learned throughout your career comes together in that moment. Contestants often talk about being cut off from the outside world. What was it like being sequestered in the hotel during filming? I actually loved it. Not having my phone, the internet, or even the news was incredibly refreshing. It forced me to be alone with my thoughts and really connect with the other contestants without constant distractions. I read books, played a lot of solitaire with a deck of cards, and honestly found it to be one of my favorite parts of filming. Your savory final course sparked a lot of discussion. How were you feeling as you presented that dish to the judges? I felt really confident. Serving a savory final course instead of dessert made perfect sense for the story I wanted to tell. That final toast to my dad felt like the right ending for that menu. Even though I was questioned about it several times, I believed in my decision and stood by it.

What has changed in your life — and what’s stayed the same — since the win? A lot has changed. Being recognized in public is still something I’m getting used to. The thing that hasn’t changed is work. I still go into the kitchen every day and do what I love. Living on the Big Island helps keep me grounded. I find so much peace in being outdoors, whether that’s hiking, spending time at the beach, or simply being in nature. What are some ingredients you’ll always find in your home kitchen? There’s always something fermented in my refrigerator. Right now I’m obsessed with these kimchi garlic stems I found at KTA. They’re so good, I put them on everything. What advice would you give to young chefs who see themselves in your story? Be consistent and stay open-minded. There is never just one way to do things, and success is rarely linear. Explore every opportunity you can. Taste everything. Travel whenever possible. Keep learning from every chef, mentor, and experience you encounter. The more curious you remain, the stronger you’ll become, not just as a chef, but as a person. CanoeHouse; located at Mauna Lani, Auberge Collection; 68-1400 Mauna Lani Drive, Kohala Coast; (808) 885-6622; auberge.com/mauna-lani

HOT SPOT

TRATTORIA KONA

At Walua Social, Kona’s farms and waters meet the Italian table

words KRYSTAL KAKIMOTO

PHOTO COURTESY: (TOP RT) ANDREW RICHARD HARA; (TOP LT/OPP) ZACK SMITH

he distance between Hawai‘i and Italy spans nearly 8,000 miles, but at Walua Social in Kona, the two feel remarkably close. Approaching its third anniversary, the restaurant has become one of the island’s most sought-after dining destinations. Here, sunripened island produce, pristine local seafood, and the enduring traditions of Italian cooking converge in a menu that is as unexpected as it is deeply rooted in place. Guiding this culinary vision is chef Chad Yamamoto, whose approach to cooking is as deeply personal as it is inventive. Yamamoto grew up in Pāhoa, in the lush, windward Puna district of Hawai‘i Island, yet his path to the kitchen was anything but preordained. As a teenager, he casually told his mother and high school counselor that he wanted to work in kitchens, a passing declaration that would quietly shape the course of his life. Yamamoto went on to study culinary arts at Hawai‘i Community College before honing his

craft in the kitchens of celebrated Hawai‘i chef Sam Choy and Michelin-starred chef Massimo Falsini. Yet it was while working at a Waikoloa resort that his career took a defining turn. There, a fellow Hawai‘i-born chef became a mentor, encouraging him to think beyond technique and embrace creativity. “He started mentoring me, talking about restaurants and ingredients that made cooking interesting to me, in a new way,” Yamamoto recalls. “He challenged me to create dishes and develop specials for the menu. That’s what really set me on the path that I am on today; it unlocked something different in me.” Today, that spirit of curiosity shapes every dish at Walua Social. Yamamoto draws upon the abundance of Hawai‘i Island’s farms and surrounding waters, weaving together the culinary traditions of Sardinia with the flavors that defined his childhood: from umami-rich bonito (Japanese dried skipjack tuna) to the savory depth of fish sauce.

“Kanpachi is not only consistently available, but also incredibly versatile,” he says. “We utilize the whole fish, incorporating different parts into five distinct dishes.” The collars are carefully deboned before being fried into crisp Kona Kanpachi Collars Fritto, while the bones are simmered into a deeply flavorful stock for the restaurant’s Sardinian Ramen, a soulful fusion that marries Japanese techniques with Italian inspiration. The pristine fillets appear twice on the menu: first as a delicate crudo dressed in bright Mediterranean accents, and again as a piccata-style entrée finished with capers, lemon, baby watercress, and celery hearts. Even the trimmings are given new life, gently smoked and folded into a rich Kona Kanpachi spread served alongside seasonal crudités. The menu transitions with a dazzling selection of insalata, each celebrating the island’s bounty through thoughtful composition and bold flavor. Roasted root vegetables are paired with creamy goat cheese, while tender baby romaine is enveloped in a silky black pepper emulsion. The standout Kona Mango Panzanella is a vivid expression of Hawai‘i’s agricultural abundance, combining sun-ripened Waimea tomatoes, luscious ricotta, briny Kalamata olives, and

PHOTO COURTESY: ZACK SMITH; (OPP) ANDREW RICHARD HARA

That same philosophy extends beyond the plate. From the moment guests step inside, Yamamoto and his team strive to create the warmth of a neighborhood gathering place, where exceptional food is matched with genuine hospitality. “We want everyone to feel comfortable and well taken care of,” he says. “We want to treat you like family. Even our name reflects that — it speaks to both our location, along Walua Road, and the social tradition of gathering around the table in Italy.” The meal unfolds with selections from the cotto and crudo — warm, comforting plates or vibrant, raw presentations — that display Yamamoto’s technical precision and playful creativity. From Sticky Black Pepper Ribs, slow-cooked until meltingly tender and finished with crispy garlic and fresh chives, to briny oysters, served with zesty giardiniera, each dish feels equal parts surprising and deeply harmonious. The same thoughtful approach extends to Yamamoto’s treatment of seafood, particularly Kona kanpachi (kāhala, the Hawaiian amberjack). Rather than highlighting only prized cuts, he builds an entire menu around the fish, transforming every part into something distinct while honoring both the ingredient and a zero-waste philosophy.

pillowy focaccia in a bright sherry vinaigrette that balances sweetness with restrained acidity. The pasta offerings continue the restaurant’s seamless dialogue between Italian tradition and Hawaiian ingredients. Kiawe Smoked Tomato Risotto arrives deeply aromatic, finished with Parmigiano-Reggiano and fresh herbs, while the signature Sardinian Ramen reimagines spaghetti through a distinctly island lens. Tender strands of pasta are cloaked in a rich ‘ahi (yellowfin tuna) belly sugo (slow-simmered tomato sauce) and a measured touch of chili, resulting in a dish that is both comforting and sophisticated. The entrées further highlight Hawai‘i’s exceptional ingredients, drawing from its fertile landscapes and surrounding waters. The Pork Chop Milanese is elevated with fragrant fennel, peppery arugula, and velvety mushroom aioli, balancing crispy textures with earthy richness. A 14-ounce bone-in New York strip arrives simply yet confidently prepared, accompanied by roasted eggplant, sweet garlic, and a finishing touch of extra-virgin olive oil and flaky sea salt, allowing the quality of the beef to take center stage. Equally compelling, the Kona Kanpachi Piccata showcases the delicate, locally raised fish enlivened by the tangy, citrus-forward flavors that define the classic

Italian preparation, resulting in a dish that is both dynamic and elegantly nuanced. As the menu continues to evolve, Chef Yamamoto and his team remain driven by a simple ambition: to refine each dish in pursuit of an experience that lingers after the final course. That vision extends beyond the plate, with plans of intimate chef’s tables, thoughtfully curated wine dinners, and collaborations with visiting chefs that transform each gathering into a celebration of conversation, culture, and community. At its heart, Walua Social is more than a restaurant; it is an expression of place. Rooted in Italian tradition, yet unmistakably shaped by the landscapes, ingredients, and spirit of Hawai‘i Island, every dish tells a story of two culinary worlds meeting with purpose and respect. The result is a dining experience that invites guests to savor not only the flavors of the plate but also the connection between land, sea, heritage, and the people who bring them together. Walua Social; 75-5864 Walua Road, Kailua-Kona; (808) 498-0777; Open Monday–Friday, 5 p.m.–9 p.m.; waluasocial.com

WHAT WE LOVE NOW

Paniolo Nights As twilight settles over Waikoloa, Paniolo Legends Under the Lights invites guests into an evening where Hawai‘i’s paniolo (Hawaiian cowboy) heritage comes vividly to life. The nighttime experience engages every sense, beginning with live music, handcrafted cocktails, and elevated pūpū (appetizers) as guests explore interactive installations and create a custom keepsake at the signature hat bar. As the sun sinks toward the horizon, an island feast is unveiled, featuring pit-roasted barbecue, a signature poke bar, and locally inspired accompaniments. The evening culminates in an arena production of master horsemen, music, and immersive storytelling that honors the legacy of the paniolo. Team roping, match barrel riding, and flag races unfold in an unscripted show inspired by the pivotal events of 1832, when King Kamehameha III invited Mexican vaqueros to teach Native Hawaiians the art of cattle ranching. The staging brings events from nearly 200 years ago to life beneath a canopy of stars. After the show, the celebration continues with dancing and a chance to meet the cowboys and take photos under the open Waikoloa sky. —Krystal Kakimoto Paniolo Legends Under the Lights at Waikōloa Stables; 68-1936 Waikoloa Road, Waikoloa Village; held select Thursdays beginning at 6 p.m.; 1832hawaii.com/bookings

Smoked, Shucked & Cured Bold flavors and culinary craftsmanship take center stage at the Hawai‘i Food & Wine Festival’s Smoked, Shucked & Cured, held beneath the stars at the Mauna Kea Beach Hotel. Set against the open ocean, the evening invites guests dressed in their finest cowboy chic to indulge in a celebration of smoke, salt, and sea. Ten acclaimed chefs transform the festival’s themes of smoking, shucking, and curing into inventive small plates that highlight the extraordinary bounty of Hawai‘i alongside global culinary influences. From pristine oysters and freshly caught seafood to expertly cured meats and fire-kissed specialties, every dish is crafted to awaken the senses. Thoughtfully paired wines, selected by local wine professionals, elevate each bite while highlighting the harmony between food, terroir, and craftsmanship. Smoked, Shucked & Cured honors the islands’ rich agricultural and ocean harvest through storytelling, technique, and flavor. Whether enjoying the lively atmosphere with general admission or the exclusive VIP offerings, guests move through an evening where chefs from Hawai‘i and beyond bring their smoky, savory, and briny inspirations to life. —Krystal Kakimoto Smoked, Shucked & Cured at the Mauna Kea Beach Hotel; October 17, 2026, 6 p.m.–9 p.m.; hawaiifoodandwinefestival.com/events/smoked-shucked-cured

WHAT WE LOVE NOW

Prime Position Since opening in late 2023, Miller & Lux has established itself as one of the island’s most coveted dining destinations. The latest concept from acclaimed American chef, best-selling author, and Food Network personality Tyler Florence brings his signature philosophy of ingredient-driven, convivial dining to Hawai‘i Island. Set within the iconic Four Seasons Resort Hualālai, Miller & Lux celebrates the extraordinary bounty of the islands through a menu that balances refined techniques with a connection to both land and sea. Guests can begin with an abundant raw bar or the signature Miller & Lux Caesar, prepared tableside, before exploring sustainably sourced seafood and premium steaks, including tender filet mignon, flavorful New York strip, and the richly marbled Westholme Sustainable Australian Wagyu cowboy rib-eye, served bone-in. Much of the produce arrives directly from local farms, allowing each plate to reflect the flavors and landscapes that define the island. Thoughtful touches extend to every diner, with dedicated keiki (children) and vegan menus featuring inventive offerings such as Beet “Tartare” Tacos and hearty Ali‘i Mushroom Polenta with salsa verde. The result is a dining experience that feels simultaneously elevated and approachable, one that captures the spirit of contemporary Hawai‘i through exceptional hospitality, outstanding ingredients, and a deep sense of place. Miller & Lux at the Four Seasons Resort Hualālai; 72-100 Ka‘ūpūlehu Drive, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740; (808) 325-8000; open nightly 5 p.m.–8:30 p.m.; fourseasons.com/hualalai/dining

PHOTO COURTESY: KONA VILLAGE/JOHN HOOK

The Long Table At Kona Village, evenings come alive at Pūlehu Night, a weekly gathering that celebrates the island’s traditions of open-fire cooking, culinary craft, and relaxed hospitality that defines Hawai‘i. As dusk settles over the Kona Coast, guests gather beneath a vast canopy of stars for an open-air feast where flame and flavor take center stage. Just steps from the shoreline, the scene is set for an immersive surf-and-turf experience rooted in the bounty of Hawai‘i Island’s land and sea. The menu moves between kiawe wood-grilled steaks, freshly prepared island fish, and vibrant poke from the raw bar, complemented by seasonal island-inspired sides, handcrafted cocktails, and desserts. Live music and hula bring rhythm and storytelling to the night as the sun fades into a glowing horizon. More than just dinner, Pūlehu Night evokes the spirit of Hawai‘i’s paniolo (Hawaiian cowboy) heritage, where shared meals around open fires were part of life’s natural cadence, offering guests a communal, elemental experience shaped by place and tradition. —Krystal Kakimoto Pūlehu Night at Kona Village, a Rosewood Resort; 72-300 Maheawalu Drive, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740; (808) 865-0100; held Thursday evenings, 5 p.m.–8 p.m.; rosewoodhotels.com/en/kona-village/dining/ kahuwai-cookhouse-and-market

WHAT WE LOVE NOW

Iconic Ingredients Ingredients — A Dinner Series gathers guests around some of Hawai‘i Island’s local ingredients, thoughtfully paired with wines and cocktails and shaped by Executive Chef George Gomes Jr. and his team. Taking place on the last Friday of the month, each event features a new tasting menu built around a different local ingredient. The series unfolds oceanfront at Honu’s on the Beach, the King Kamehameha Kona Beach Resort’s signature restaurant, just steps from the sacred Ahu‘ena Heiau, which was restored by King Kamehameha the Great in 1812. Throughout the evening, guests can reflect on the royal Hawaiian history it represents while enjoying dishes rooted in the flavors and traditions of Hawai‘i Island. As the sun sets over Kamakahonu Bay, each course is prepared and introduced tableside, offering insight into the cultural influences, distinctive ingredients, and stories behind every dish. By the final course, a single ingredient has run the length of the menu. Ingredients — A Dinner Series at Honu’s on the Beach Restaurant at King Kamehameha Kona Beach Resort; the last Friday of each month; 5:30 p.m.; konabeachresort.com/dining

EXPERIENCE THE ISLAND OF HAWAI‘I 87

SEE + DO

111

GOLF

121

BEACHES

127

EAT + DRINK

149

SHOP + STYLE

171

ISLAND LIVING

177

MAPS

186

TRAVELOGUE

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SEE + DO 88 THE SPA AT MAUNA KEA spa & wellness 89 MAUNA KEA LŪ‘AU lū‘au 90 BEE TOUR AND HONEY TASTING apiary tour 91 MAUNAKEA SUMMIT & STARS stargazing 92 CAPTURE THE MOMENT portraits & photography 93 THE ORIGINAL SUNSET & STARGAZING TOUR stargazing 94 DELUXE SNORKEL BBQ & DOLPHIN WATCH boat tour 95 HISTORICAL CAPTAIN COOK DINNER CRUISE boat tour 96 UMAUMA FALLS ZIPLINE TOUR zipline 97 UMAUMA RIVER & FALLS DELUXE ATV TOUR off-road tour 98 KOHALA CANOPY TOUR zipline 98 KOHALA ZIP & DIP zipline 99 HIDDEN CRATERS HIKE hiking tour 99 VOLCANO, CHOCOLATE AND WATERFALL TOUR hiking & tasting tour 100 KOZY’S COMEDY & MAGIC CLUB magic show & improv / comedy club 101 UMAUMA E-BIKE CULTURAL & SWIM TOUR cultural tour & biking 102 ALA KAHAKAI NATIONAL HISTORIC TRAIL hiking 103 BOTANICAL WORLD ADVENTURES zipline & rappel 104 KAHILU THEATER performing arts 104 TWILIGHT AT KALĀHUIPUA‘A live music & storytelling 105 PU‘UKOHOLĀ HEIAU cultural site 105 LAPAKAHI STATE HISTORICAL PARK cultural site 106 PU‘UHONUA O HŌNAUNAU cultural site 106 AHU‘ENA HEIAU cultural site 107 POLOLŪ VALLEY sightseeing & hiking 107 WAIPI‘O VALLEY sightseeing & hiking 108 WAIĀNUENUE FALLS waterfall 108 ‘AKAKA & KAHUNA FALLS waterfall 109 HAWAI‘I VOLCANOES NATIONAL PARK sightseeing & hiking

Spa at Mauna Kea SPA & WELLNESS on the KOHALA COAST

› NEWLY OPENED › RESERVE IN ADVANCE

SEE + DO | EXPERIENCES

› PART OF A $240-MILLION RENOVATION

The all-new Spa at Mauna Kea invites guests into a deeply immersive wellness journey that’s rooted in Hawaiian healing traditions and organically connected to the land. Opening as part of Mauna Kea Resort’s nearly $240 million transformation, the 22,000-square-foot destination spa is guided by the philosophy of Ho‘ōla i Loko, the belief that healing begins within and radiates outward. Featuring 11 alfresco treatment rooms, steam and sauna rooms, purification gardens, plunge and soaking pools, a co-ed wellness pool deck, and lomilomi-inspired therapies using native botanicals and sea salt, the spa blends cultural authenticity with elevated luxury. Each experience begins with a traditional oli (chant), creating a meaningful connection to Hawai‘i, its people, and the restorative power of nature. Located at Mauna Kea Beach Hotel (808) 882-5707 • SpaAtMaunaKea.com 62-100 Mauna Kea Beach Dr., Kohala Coast (Map B, PG 180)

Mauna Kea Lū‘au LŪ‘AU on the KOHALA COAST

Held at Mauna Kea Beach Hotel (808) 882-7222 • MaunaKeaBeachHotel.com 62-100 Mauna Kea Beach Dr., Kohala Coast (Map B, PG 180)

› ENJOY THE SOUNDS OF THE SURF AGAINST SOULFUL STEEL GUITARS › JOIN IN AN INTERACTIVE HULA EXPERIENCE

SEE + DO | EXPERIENCES

Experience the Island of Hawai‘i’s magic at the Mauna Kea Lū‘au. Since 1965, this world-renowned celebration has captivated visitors and locals alike with Hawaiian tradition, music, and unforgettable flavors. Set against the stunning Pacific Ocean, the lū‘au features hula dancing, live music, and the authentic imu (underground oven) ceremony. Savor a feast of island-inspired dishes, from slow-cooked Kalua pig to fresh seafood and tropical fruits, all served with aloha. Whether it’s your first visit or a cherished return, the Mauna Kea Lū‘au promises an evening of culture and the spirit of aloha, creating memories to last a lifetime.

Bee Tour and Honey Tasting APIARY TOUR on the HĀMĀKUA COAST

› LEARN THE BASICS OF BEEKEEPING › VISIT HIVES IN AN APIARY

SEE + DO | EXPERIENCES

› ENJOY A GUIDED HONEY TASTING

Suit up and step into the fascinating world of honeybees on the Intro to Beekeeping Tour with Susan Collins, founder of Bird and Bee Hawai‘i. Designed for all ages, this family-friendly experience begins with a hands-on introduction to bees, beekeeping, and the vital role they play in Hawai‘i’s ecosystem. Then venture into the apiary, where you’ll meet thriving colonies up close while safely dressed in a bee suit. Enjoy a guided honey tasting featuring unique flavors from Hawai‘i and across the United States. The scenic 5-acre farm in Honoka‘a is home to rescued goats, tortoises, turkeys, and peacocks that you may encounter during your visit. Whether you’re an aspiring beekeeper or simply bee-curious, this memorable experience offers a unique glimpse into life at the hive. Tours are offered yearround, 9:30 a.m.–11:30 a.m. Visit the online calendar to see available times and group accommodations. Bird and Bee Hawai‘i (808) 936-6019 • BirdAndBeeHawaii.com 46-3991 Old Māmalahoa Hwy, Honoka‘a (Map A, PG 178)

Maunakea Summit & Stars STARGAZING on MAUNAKEA

Hawaii Forest & Trail (808) 909-3447 • Hawaii-Forest.com 73-5593 A Olowalu Street, Kailua-Kona (Map D, PG 182)

› LEARN ABOUT HAWAIIAN CULTURE › BREATHTAKING VIEWS OF NIGHT SKY › WINTER PARKA & GLOVES PROVIDED

SEE + DO | EXPERIENCES

The journey from sea level to the nearly 14,000-foot summit of Maunakea reveals the wonders and world-class clarity of the Hawaiian night sky. Enjoy a warm picnic dinner and learn about Hawaiian star navigation. Discover the historical accounts of early travelers through the mountain regions with your interpretive guide as you delight in the awe-inspiring Hawaiian sunset at the top of Maunakea, the highest point in the Pacific. As the sun slips over the horizon, the tour will descend to a lower, more comfortable elevation. Enjoy sipping hot chocolate during your private star show, guided by both an 11-inch Celestron and digital Stellina telescopes, as your guide reveals the night sky. On Wednesdays they offer a special Maunakea Giveback Experience. Before you ascend Maunakea, visit an endangered dry forest to collect native seeds to help create a self-sustainable native-dominant forest with a portion of ticket proceeds donated directly to the nonprofit Waikoloa Dry Forest Initiative.

Capture the Moment PORTRAITS & PHOTOGRAPHY on the KONA-KOHALA COAST

› PHOTOGRAPHY ALLOWS YOU TO TRAVEL ANYWHERE, INCLUDING TO EMOTIONS THAT COME WITH THE BEAUTY OF A

SEE + DO | EXPERIENCES

TENDER TOUCH

Imagine capturing the essence of your Hawaiian vacation with a personalized photoshoot that speaks to your spirit. As you immerse yourself in the vibrant colors, lush landscapes, and warm aloha spirit of these beautiful islands, Natalia will help you freeze those precious moments in time while creating stunning visuals that reflect the adventure and tranquility of your time in paradise, capturing the heart and soul of your Hawaiian getaway!

Natalia Mastra Photography Natalia@CaptureHawaii.com NataliaMastra.com

The Original Sunset & Stargazing Tour STARGAZING on MAUNAKEA

Mauna Kea Summit Adventures (808) 322-2366 MaunaKea.com

› SEE ASTONISHING SCENERY › PARKAS & A HEARTY MEAL PROVIDED! › PROFESSIONAL, KNOWLEDGEABLE GUIDES

SEE + DO | EXPERIENCES

Journey to the top of this spectacular mountain, Maunakea. Learn about the night sky from Polaris to the Southern Cross and see the treasures of the night sky through a powerful telescope. As the pioneer guide service on Maunakea, their professional guides have over 60 years of combined experience on the mountain. This tour is educational and fun. Learn all about the island’s geography, culture, and natural history from their experts, and a laugh or three isn’t out of the question. Get transported in comfortable, Mercedes 4x4 passenger vans with custom-built, coach-style seating and large windows where everyone gets a great view. Watch the breathtaking sunset and stargaze at the heavens with a panorama night sky like no other. This 7.5–8.5 hour excursion includes arctic-style parkas, a hearty hot supper, gourmet hot beverages, and convenient pick-up points.

Deluxe Snorkel, BBQ & Dolphin Watch SNORKEL & SAIL on the KONA COAST

› SPOT DOLPHINS IN THE WILD › ENJOY FOOD & DRINKS ON A

SEE + DO | EXPERIENCES

COMFORTABLE RIDE

Step aboard a luxury 65-foot catamaran for a fun-filled day of adventure on the Kona Coast! Explore the reefs on a protected underwater sanctuary, swimming, and snorkeling among the marine life, and look for passing spinner dolphins that show up frequently along the way to the snorkel site. Snorkel instruction, Rx masks, and Reef Safe sunscreen are available, along with complimentary water toys, stand-up boards, and life vests. This 4.5-hour cruise includes about two hours of water time, complemented by a continental breakfast, BBQ burger lunch, snacks, and beverages. Cocktails are available for purchase as well as local spirits and craft beers. When you’re done snorkeling, get the adrenaline flowing on the high-jump platform and 20-foot waterslide. You’ll cruise along the coast on cushioned seating, with access to restrooms and showers on board. Just bring a towel and a smile and they've got the rest! Body Glove Cruises (808) 229-3115 • BodyGloveHawaii.com 75-5629 Kuakini Hwy., Kailua-Kona (Map E, PG 183)

Historical Dinner Cruise to Kealakekua Bay SUNSET SAIL on the KONA COAST

Body Glove Cruises (808) 229-3115 • BodyGloveHawaii.com 75-5629 Kuakini Hwy., Kailua-Kona (Map E, PG 183)

› CATCH A SUNSET ON THE RETURN › VISIT CAPTAIN COOK MONUMENT › A FRESH, FLAVORFUL ISLAND MENU

SEE + DO | EXPERIENCES

This luxurious, three-hour, 12-mile cruise to Captain Cook Monument departs in the afternoon from the Kailua Pier. The timing is perfect to see all the historical sites of the Kona Coast by day and catch the sunset on the way back. Unwind and listen in to live Hawaiian music while enjoying your favorite libation from the full-service premium cash bar offering local spirits, craft beers, wines, champagne, and blended drinks. Your first drink is complimentary! Their executive chef will prepare a three-course Pacific Rim–style dinner for you. Nowhere in Hawai‘i will you witness a better dinner view than from this vessel, the Kanoa II. Keep your camera ready as dolphins may join you. As you approach the turnaround point in Kealakekua Bay, you will see the monument where Captain James Cook first set foot in 1779. Enjoy a little history and fun!

Umauma Falls Zipline Tour ZIPLINE on the HĀMĀKUA COAST

› TRAVERSE A 200-FT SUSPENSION BRIDGE

SEE + DO | EXPERIENCES

› ZIP OVER 14 WATERFALLS!

Your experience of a lifetime begins at the Umauma Experience: Hawai‘i’s premier destination for outdoor activities. Umauma features a world-class nineline zipline experience over waterfalls with amazing views of the Pacific Ocean, the Hāmākua Coast, and Mauna Kea. The first four lines are dual, so you can zip alongside a friend or family member. Line four is the longest at 2,060 feet and entirely over the Umauma River! In total, you zip almost 2 miles over all nine lines combined! With a friendly staff, amazing views, beautiful waterfalls, and long ziplines, Umauma will be your favorite experience during your trip to Hawai‘i. Don’t miss it! Transportation from the Kohala Coast is now available on Thursday 11 a.m. tours.

Umauma Experience (808) 731-1020 • UmaumaExperience.com 31-313 Old Māmalahoa Highway, Hakalau (Map A, PG 178)

Umauma Falls Deluxe ATV Tour OFF-ROAD on the HĀMĀKUA COAST

Umauma Experience (808) 731-1020 • UmaumaExperience.com 31-313 Old Māmalahoa Highway, Hakalau (Map A, PG 178)

› A GOOD EXCUSE TO GET DIRTY! › STOP AT A PRIVATE WATERFALL & LAGOON FOR A QUICK DIP IF DESIRED

SEE + DO | EXPERIENCES

If you are searching for your next adrenaline-filled adventure during your stay in Hawai‘i, take in the beautiful views of Umauma and the Hāmākua Coast riding in an off-road vehicle. Choose between an ATV or SXS and get down and dirty as guides lead you along a venturous course with stunning panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean, breathtaking stops to view the Umauma River and beautiful waterfalls, and a journey through a locally grown guava grove. There is no better way to enjoy miles and miles of muddy (or dusty) excitement. Includes a 5.5-mile course, opportunities to take photos of beautiful waterfalls and tropical scenery, as well as a short break at a private waterfall and lagoon.

Kohala Canopy Adventure ZIPLINE in NORTH KOHALA

Experience Hawai‘i Island’s newest zipline thrill! Fly through the canopy, soar over a waterfall, climb a spiral-tree staircase, and conquer the longest and fastest zip yet at Kohala Zipline’s breathtaking new location. This canopy-based adventure features eight thrilling lines reaching up to 45 mph, five sky bridges, and a rappel. Sustainably built on a historic ahupua‘a (ancient Hawaiian land division) in North Kohala and storied birthright lands of King Kamehameha the Great — this unique course blends rich Hawaiian history with modern adventure. Junior flyers can also enjoy the new Keiki Course designed to excite and engage the younger family members. Partnering with ‘Iole, a local nonprofit dedicated to land regeneration for future generations, a portion of each zipline ticket directly supports their mission. Located just a short drive from the Waikoloa and Kailua-Kona resorts, it’s the ultimate Hawai‘i Island experience for families and enthusiasts alike. Join them today!

Kohala Zipline (808) 909-3447 • KohalaZipline.com 55-515 Hāwī Road, Hāwī (Map G, PG 184)

Kohala Zip & Dip

SEE + DO | EXPERIENCES

ZIPLINE & WATERFALL SWIM in NORTH KOHALA

Spend an inspiring and exhilarating day in North Kohala, a land of stunning beauty and profound cultural significance. Off-road, behind locked gates, you will find an unparalleled experience both in the canopy and on the ground, with two popular tours (Kohala Waterfalls Adventure & Kohala Zipline Adventure) combined into one action-packed day. Led by two certified guides, soar in the treetops, ascend a spiral-tree staircase, and zip above a waterfall on Kohala Zipline’s newest zipline adventure with eight thrilling ziplines, five sky bridges, and a rappel. Enjoy a stroll with an interpretive guide by secluded waterfalls in a private nature reserve, and swim and play under a hidden waterfall. Relax and refuel with a picnic lunch boasting majestic ocean and valley views. Book an unforgettable Zip & Dip experience today!

Kohala Zipline (808) 909-3447 • KohalaZipline.com 55-515 Hāwī Road, Hāwī (Map G, PG 184)

Hidden Craters Hike HIKING TOUR on the KONA COAST

Hidden high above bustling Kailua-Kona on the slopes of Hualālai Mountain is a world-class volcanic landscape that few ever experience. Passing through locked gates, Hawaii Forest & Trail will take you to this exclusive access location filled with native cloud forest, eruptive craters, and a hidden lava tube. Begin this 3–4 mile trek on foot with your interpretive naturalist guide at 6,500 feet above sea level. See firsthand the geologic forces that shaped large swaths of North Kona. Travel to magnificent coastal viewpoints and stunning lava formations; walk amidst a forest of native birdsong and scramble through a lava tube. Hualālai has many of the same features as Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park — without the drive! Book online and save 10 percent with code “savvy2026.”

Hawaii Forest & Trail (808) 909-3447 • Hawaii-Forest.com 73-5593 A Olowalu Street, Kailua-Kona (Map D, PG 182)

Volcano, Chocolate and Waterfall Tour Hawai‘i’s most “in-depth” volcano experience is here! Join expert interpretive guides on a journey through Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park’s breathtaking and ever-changing landscape including its most recent eruptive sites and explore some of their favorite trails ensuring you find the best spots based on the day’s conditions and your interests. Then, embark on an interactive treeto-chocolate experience, discovering how cacao is transformed into delicious chocolate on a lush 1,000-acre private tropical farm above Hilo Bay. Exclusive to Hawaii Forest & Trail guests, this journey culminates at a private chocolate tasting venue held by the farm’s hidden waterfall. This tour is a great way to see and taste the highlights on Hawai‘i Island’s east side! Book online and save 10 percent with code “savvy2026.”

Hawaii Forest & Trail (808) 909-3447 • Hawaii-Forest.com 73-5593 A Olowalu Street, Kailua-Kona (Map D, PG 182)

SEE + DO | EXPERIENCES

HIKING & TASTING EXPERIENCE in EAST HAWAI‘I

Kozy's Comedy & Magic Club COMEDY CLUB on the KOHALA COAST

› NO TWO SHOWS ARE EVER THE SAME! › MAGIC MEETS IMPROV AT THIS AMAZING

SEE + DO | EXPERIENCES

DISPLAY OF COMEDY & SHOWMANSHIP

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Kozy is an internationally acclaimed and recognized “World-Class Comic Magician” and multiple award winner. He has 38 years of experience as a headline performer and producer in the global stand-up comedy market, nightclubs, theaters, and casino resorts. His TV credits include HBO, Showtime, The Tonight Show, The Late Show, Comedy Central, MTV, VH1, ABC, NBC, CBS, as well as The International Broadcast Market. Kozy also had the honor of a command performance for the British Royal Family at The London Palladium. He has made the Big Island his permanent home and is honored to bring The Magic of Hawai‘i to the stage at Kozy’s Tiki Palace. The show is a perfect blend of Kozy’s personal original magic and comedy, combined with the unique magic of Hawai‘i.

(808) 430-1957 • KonaKozy.com 69-201 Waikoloa Beach Drive, Suite E3, Waikoloa (Map C, PG 181)

Umauma E-Bike Cultural & Swim Tour CULTURAL TOUR & BIKING on the HĀMĀKUA COAST

Umauma Experience (808) 731-1020 • UmaumaExperience.com 31-313 Old Māmalahoa Highway, Hakalau (Map A, PG 178)

› GRAB LUNCH AT THE VISITOR CENTER CAFÉ › COMBINE WITH OTHER ONSITE TOURS FOR A DAY OF ADVENTURE!

SEE + DO | SIGHTS

Immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Hawai‘i as you pedal through beautiful landscapes and view Umauma’s famous triple-tier waterfall on premium e-bikes. Located in the charming town of Hakalau on the Hāmākua Coast, Umauma’s knowledgeable guides will lead you on a narrated journey as you learn about native Hawaiian trees, plants, and culture. Pause at the traditional hale (house) to deepen your understanding of Hawaiian traditions and native plants. Learn about the importance of taro, the medicinal uses of kukui nut, and the resourcefulness of coconut, all while surrounded by the serene ambiance of their cultural space. Next, take a swim at a private waterfall before returning to where the tour began. Don’t miss this opportunity to learn about the skill and resourcefulness of the Hawaiian people on their E-Bike Cultural and Swim Tour. Book your unforgettable journey with The Umauma Experience today.

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Ala Kahakai National Historic Trail HIKING on the KONA-KOHALA COAST

› TRAIL MAINTENANCE VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES

SEE + DO | EXPERIENCES

› EXPLORE ANCIENT PETROGLYPH FIELDS

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Winding over rugged lava fields and along the breathtaking coastline of Hawai‘i Island, Ala Kahakai National Historic Trail is nearly 175 miles long. The corridor runs from ‘Upolu Point on the island’s northern end down the Kona Coast, before curving around South Point and meandering to the eastern boundary of Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park, and all the way to Puna. While there are dozens of spots to begin your Ala Kahakai experience, a popular starting point is the Waikoloa Petroglyph Preserve. Ancient Hawai‘i crosses paths with modern Hawai‘i in the Waikoloa Beach Resort, where you can pick up the Kīholo-Puako trail, which is also known as the Kingdom Road. Part of the Ala Kahakai National Historic Trail system, Kīholo-Puako is a 3.5-mile, out-and-back trail leading to one of the island’s bestpreserved petroglyph sites. Thousands of ki‘i pōhaku (petroglyphs) are scattered everywhere and believed to identify the border between the ancient kingdoms of Kona and Kohala. Various starting points around the island alakahakaitrail.org

Botanical World Adventures ZIPLINE & RAPPEL on the HĀMĀKUA COAST

Botanical World Adventures (808) 825-6446 • BotanicalWorld.com 31-240 Old Māmalahoa Highway, Hakalau (Map A, PG 178)

› 8 ZIPLINES & SUSPENSION BRIDGE › FAMILY RAPPEL & KAMA‘E‘E FALLS RAPPEL › DIP IN HANAPUEO FALLS

SEE + DO | EXPERIENCES

Ready for an adventure that redefines exhilaration? At Botanical World Adventures on the Big Island, you can choose your thrill. Soar through Hawai‘i’s rainforest on the island’s only jungle zipline, crossing deep gulches and finishing with a breathtaking half-mile flight, side-by-side racing your favorite person over the 300foot Pu‘uwai o‘ Kama‘e‘e Falls. Or, conquer your limits with a rappel experience, including the double rappel and via ferrata above the magnificent waterfall. Prefer a deeper connection? Dip in a private misty waterfall pond or after your rappel or zip swim in the pool at the base of the huge waterfall. Wander through lush botanical gardens and jungle trails to experience the wealth of plant varieties. Whether you crave adrenaline or immersion, every tour connects you to the ‘āina (land), filling your senses with the history and magic of this incredible place. Book your journey today!

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Kahilu Theatre PERFORMING ARTS in WAIMEA

The Kahilu Theatre is a flourishing multidisciplinary arts center on Hawai‘i Island — a place where our community comes together and the arts come alive! Each season the Kahilu Theatre fulfills its mission through presenting acclaimed artists from Hawai‘i and beyond, sustaining a youth arts education program, providing performance space for community-based productions, and showcasing local visual artists in their two galleries. Kahilu Theatre is a nonprofit community arts and education center dedicated to serving the diverse Hawai‘i Island community and its visitors.

Located in Parker Ranch Center (808) 885-6868 • KahiluTheatre.org 67-1186 Lindsey Rd., Kamuela (Map F, PG 184)

w w w.kahilutheatre.org Twilight at Kalāhuipua‘a

SEE + DO | EXPERIENCES

LIVE MUSIC & STORYTELLING on the KOHALA COAST

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Each month when the full moon rises, Mauna Lani hosts an enchanted evening of storytelling and entertainment on the oceanfront lawn of the resort’s Eva Parker Woods Cottage. The event perpetuates the traditional folk art of storytelling and provides a chance to experience the true aloha spirit. You never know who is going to step up on stage from legendary musicians to hula dancers. The oceanfront location is the piko (spiritual center) of the resort’s ancient Hawaiian fishponds, making it the perfect venue under the full moon. Steeped in genuine aloha, this intimate kanikapila ( jam session) is not to be missed, and is held every month, from 5–8 p.m. on the Saturday closest to the full moon. Check with the resort for dates.

Located at Mauna Lani, Auberge Collection (808) 885-6622 68-1400 Mauna Lani Dr., Kohala Coast (Map C, PG 179)

Pu‘ukoholā Heiau CULTURAL SITE on the KOHALA COAST

This quiet and peaceful park allows visitors a glimpse into traditional Hawaiian religious practices and the fascinating life of the most revered Hawaiian king. Built by King Kamehameha to honor his family war god, Kū, and to fulfill the prophecy of uniting the Hawaiian Islands, it tells the vibrant tale of the unification of the Hawaiian Islands during one of the most important periods in Hawaiian history. Thousands of men, including Kamehameha himself, worked for nearly a year in the construction of this temple. It is said that the workers formed a long human chain from Pololū Valley, over 20 miles away, to Pu‘ukoholā. They passed lava rocks down this human chain, one by one, and used them to skillfully build Pu‘ukoholā Heiau without the use of any bonding agents such as cement or mortar.

(808) 882-7218 62-3601 Kawaihae Rd., Kawaihae (Map B, PG 180)

Lapakahi State Historical Park About 12 miles north of Kawaihae, Lapakahi State Historical Park features the remnants and partially rebuilt structures of a 700-year-old fishing village named Koai‘e. At this 262-acre park, you can take a short self-guided tour and gain an understanding of what daily life was once like in this village.This area remained inhabited until the late 1800s. While historians aren’t entirely certain why it was abandoned, a popular theory points to a declining water table that limited access to fresh water. In addition to providing a glimpse into life in ancient Hawai‘i, Lapakahi offers stunning views of the coastline and ocean. Lapakahi is free and open daily, 8 a.m.–4 p.m., with the exception of state holidays. Brochures are typically available when you enter the park.

Located 12 miles north of Kawaihae Harbor (Map A, PG 178)

SEE + DO | EXPERIENCES

CULTURAL SITE on the KOHALA COAST

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Pu‘uhonua o Hōnaunau CULTURAL SITE on KONA COAST

This national historical park known as Pu‘uhonua O Hōnaunau served as a safe haven in times of war and was also a place of cleansing for kapu (law) breakers. Wooden images of Hawaiian native ki‘i (gods) and heiau (temples) on the sacred grounds of the beautiful and serene beachfront sanctuary make this one of the island’s most significant cultural sites. Because ancient Hawaiians believed that if the spirit was not fed then it would drift away, kāhuna and others left food offerings in the temple. Today with the revival of Hawaiian customs, you may see offerings of food on the lele (tower) at Hale O Keawe. The park is home to some of the most significant traditional Hawaiian sites in the Hawaiian archipelago. Open daily 7 a.m. to sunset. Admission fees vary, credit and debit cards only.

(808) 328-2326 • nps.gov/puho 4 miles south of Kealakekua Bay on Rte 160, Hōnaunau (Map A, PG 178)

Ahu‘ena Heiau CULTURAL SITE on KONA COAST

SEE + DO | SIGHTS

A thatched shrine built and restored on an artificial island in Kamakahonu (Eye of the Turtle) is guarded by wooden images (ki‘i). King Kamehameha I settled here in 1812 and maintained his royal residence until his death here in 1819. King Kamehameha dedicated Ahu‘ena Heiau, a temple of prosperity, to Lono, god of fertility. Significant history was made on the royal compounds when Liholiho, who became King Kamehameha II, dined with the great queens Keōpūolani and Ka‘ahumanu, breaking one of the most rigorous kapu. This bold act brought on the abandonment of the ancient kapu system and opened the door to Christianity.

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Kamakahonu Bay at Historic Kailua Village Ahuena-Heiau.org 75-5660 Palani Rd., Kailua-Kona (Map E, PG 183)

Pololū Valley & Lookout SIGHTSEEING & HIKING in NORTH KOHALA

Pololū Valley might not be very well known outside of the residents of the Big Island; however, it is a majestic sight. Located in North Kohala at the end of Highway 270, it winds past the quaint town of Hāwī. Just past the 28-mile marker, you will round the corner and suddenly be treated to a breathtaking view of Pololū Valley — the same view that previous generations have enjoyed for centuries, and one of the most spectacular panoramic views on the Big Island. The walk down to the valley floor is a rocky hiking trail less than a mile long and ends at a black sand beach. The views make the hike worthwhile; however, the hike up can be strenuous. It’s advised that you wear sturdy shoes and use caution, especially if the path is wet. You won’t find any amenities or lifeguards on the beach, but you will get a rapturous glimpse of nature’s beauty at its finest.

Mile marker 28 on Hwy 270, Kapa‘au (Map A, PG 178)

Waipi‘o Valley & Lookout SIGHTSEEING & HIKING on the HĀMĀKUA COAST

Located at the end of Hwy 240, Honoka‘a (Map A, PG 178)

SEE + DO | SIGHTS

Also known as Valley of the Kings, Waipi‘o ("curved water" in the Hawaiian language) Valley could also be considered Earth’s Garden of Eden, with breathtaking vistas bounded by 2,000foot cliffs, spectacular Hi‘ilawe Falls plummeting 1,200 feet from Kohala Mountain to the bottom of the valley, fruit trees, taro fields, streams, and a crescent black sand beach. The steep and narrow road down the valley is currently open to Hawai‘i residents only, but the lookout offers breathtaking views without breaking a sweat. The lookout is perfect for taking pictures and having a picnic in the covered pavilion.

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Waiānuenue Falls WATERFALL in HILO

The charming old-school island town of Hilo, seemingly frozen in time, has many waterfalls that are not only easy to find, but require just a short walk to view. Waiānuenue Falls, famously known as Rainbow Falls, is one such waterfall that stretches about 80 feet long and is probably the most easily accessible on the island — just a short walk from the parking lot and only a few minutes from downtown Hilo. The Falls’ name was inspired by the multi-colored prisms seen in the mist of the falling water and comes from ānuenue, meaning rainbow and wai meaning water. The water spills over an ancient lava rock cave that is said to be the home of the Hawaiian moon goddess, Hina. Depending on the amount of rain, the waterfall sometimes descends at a trickle or it could be gushing over the edge with many ribbons after a storm. No entrance fee. Open daily 7:00 a.m.–5:30 p.m. Gates lock at 6 p.m. Located in downtown Hilo Dlnr.Hawaii.gov/dsp/parks/hawaii/wailuku-river-state-park/ Rainbow Dr., Hilo (Map H, PG 185)

‘Akaka & Kahuna Falls WATERFALL on the HĀMĀKUA COAST

SEE + DO | SIGHTS

Located within ‘Akaka Falls State Park, this is one of the most highly recommended waterfalls to visit on Hawai‘i Island. The pathway to reach the 442-foot-tall falls is about 0.4 miles long and takes you through an enchanting rainforest, as well as to a smaller 100-foot-tall waterfall, Kahuna. Several legends of varying details surround ‘Akaka Falls. The premise, however, is that a Hawaiian chief named ‘Akaka lived in the area and was said to be having an affair. When his wife discovered this, he was said to have fallen to his death, creating ‘Akaka Falls. The trailhead is located just off the parking lot. The paved route, which includes multiple steps in places (not wheelchair accessible), makes an easy to follow loop offering stunning viewpoints of the two waterfalls. Parking is $10 per car. The entrance fee for non-residents is $5.

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Dlnr.Hawaii.gov/dsp/parks/hawaii/akaka-falls-state-park 875 Akaka Falls Rd., Honomu (Map A, PG 179)

Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park SIGHTSEEING & HIKING in VOLCANO

Located near Volcano Village Nps.gov/havo (808) 985-6000 (Map A, PG 179)

› NUMEROUS DAY HIKING TRAILS › TAKE A SCENIC DRIVE TO THE SEA DOWN CHAIN OF CRATERS ROAD

SEE + DO | SIGHTS

Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park protects some of the most unique geological, biological, and cultural landscapes in the world. Extending from sea level to 13,677 feet, the park encompasses the summits of two of the world's most active volcanoes — Kīlauea and Mauna Loa. From wilderness adventures to short walks and scenic drives, there's plenty to do in Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park. Walk through lush rainforest and see a cave where a river of lava flowed 500 years ago at Thurston Lava Tube, or enjoy one of the many trails in the park, such as the Kīlauea Iki trail that descends 400 feet through rainforest into a volcanic crater, and hike across a hardened lava lake from the 1959 eruption. Check with the park regarding the latest activity at the crater. All visitors must have an entrance pass. Standard passes are $15–$30. Cash is not accepted.

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GOLF 112 HUALĀLAI GOLF COURSE golf course 113 HUALĀLAI GOLF HALE golf simulator & instruction 114 HAPUNA GOLF COURSE golf course 115 MAUNA KEA GOLF COURSE golf course 116 MAUNA LANI GOLF COURSE - NORTH golf course 117 MAUNA LANI GOLF COURSE - SOUTH golf course 118 WAIKOLOA BEACH RESORT GOLF golf course 120 KOHANAIKI GOLF COURSE golf course

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Hualālai Golf Course GOLF COURSE on the KONA-KOHALA COAST

› THE TEE SHOT ON 17 CAN BE QUITE DISTRACTING DURING WHALE SEASON

SEE + DO | GOLF

› TRACKMAN TECHNOLOGY ON RANGE

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The Hualālai Resort Signature Course on the Big Island is home of the PGA Champions Tour Mitsubishi Electric Championship every January since 1997. For golf enthusiasts and visitors alike, the Hualālai Golf Course at Four Seasons Resort Hualālai offers a unique opportunity to play on a course favored by golfers at the top of their field set against the serene and inspiring backdrop of the Big Island’s coast. The Resort remains committed to delivering an exceptional guest experience, solidifying its place as a premier destination for luxury and sport. Residents and residential guests of Hualālai along with guests of the Four Seasons Resort Hualālai may enjoy this great facility, which includes a 9-acre driving range with 27,000-square-foot short-game practice area.

Located in Hualālai Resort (808) 325-8480 • FourSeasons.com/Hualalai/Golf 72-100 Ka‘ūpūlehu Dr., Kailua-Kona (Map D, PG 182)

Hualālai Golf Hale GOLF SIMULATOR & INSTRUCTION on the KONA-KOHALA COAST

Located in Hualālai Resort (808) 325-8000 • FourSeasons.com/Hualalai/Golf 72-100 Ka'upulehu Dr., Kailua-Kona (Map D, PG 182)

› THE LOUNGE & COMFORT STATION BOASTS A FULL KITCHEN & BAR › GET A LESSON IN STYLE — AND TECH

SEE + DO | GOLF

This 3,000-square-foot instruction and practice facility is the ultimate destination for golf enthusiasts of all ages to enjoy exclusive programming and improve their golf game with state-of-the-art technology and expert instruction. Programming includes a variety of offerings that combine fun, fitness, technology, and luxury. Instructional services feature one-on-one coaching, video analysis, on-course lessons, full-day retreats, multi-student lessons, indoor “learn and play” sessions using TrackMan flight simulation, fittings, and other custom programs. One of the indoor bays features Full Swing Golf, a teaching studio featuring a golf simulator and lounge. The only offering of its kind in Hawai‘i, the tech-laden Swing Suite combines serious instruction with a menu of games.

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Hapuna Golf Course GOLF COURSE on the KOHALA COAST

› NEW PASPALUM GREENS › A SHOTMAKER'S COURSE

SEE + DO | GOLF

› NEWLY RENOVATED

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Perched above Hawai‘i Island’s breathtaking Kohala Coast, Hapuna Golf Course at The Westin Hapuna Beach Resort is entering an exciting new era. Originally designed by Arnold Palmer and Ed Seay, the celebrated 18-hole championship course has undergone a million-dollar enhancement focused on elevating both playability and sustainability. Improvements include refined fairways and bunkers, and the introduction of premium seashore paspalum turf, a droughtresistant grass ideal for coastal conditions and efficient water use. Stretching across dramatic elevations with sweeping Pacific Ocean and Mauna Kea views, the par-72 course offers a rewarding experience for golfers of all skill levels. Enjoy practice facilities, PGA instruction, GPS-equipped carts, and the unique Islander Sake Brewery clubhouse experience, Hapuna Golf Course continues to redefine golf along Hawai‘i’s iconic Kohala Coast. Located in Mauna Kea Resort (808) 880-3000 • MaunaKeaResort.com/Golf 62-100 Kauna'oa Dr., Kohala Coast (Map B, PG 180)

Mauna Kea Golf Course GOLF COURSE on the KOHALA COAST

Located in Mauna Kea Resort (808) 882-5400 • MaunaKeaResort.com/Golf 62-100 Mauna Kea Beach Dr., Kohala Coast (Map B, PG 180)

› NEWLY RENOVATED › SCENIC VISTAS FROM EVERYWHERE › HAWAI‘I ISLAND’S FIRST GOLF RESORT

SEE + DO | GOLF

Following its acclaimed renovation, Mauna Kea Golf Course continues to welcome guests to one of the world’s most celebrated courses shaped by the legendary Jones family. Originally designed by Robert Trent Jones Sr. in 1964, later refined by his son Rees Jones, and most recently reimagined by Robert Trent Jones Jr., the course honors a remarkable multigenerational legacy. In his redesign, RTJ Jr. preserved his father’s original vision and Laurance S. Rockefeller’s commitment to creating a premier golf destination rooted in Hawai‘i’s natural beauty and sustainability. Today, the course continues to captivate golfers with its renowned playability, dramatic oceanfront setting, and thoughtful design that deepens appreciation for the island’s extraordinary landscape.

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Mauna Lani - North Course GOLF COURSE on the KOHALA COAST

› A PLAYER'S HIDDEN GEM › A CLASSIC MIX OF SCENERY AND

SEE + DO | GOLF

SHOTMAKING

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Ranked among the top 10 destinations of Golfweek’s “Best 2022: Top public and private courses in Hawai‘i,” Mauna Lani’s North Course is an 18-hole haven tucked within primordial lava fields and lush kiawe canopies. A coveted tour venue for golf enthusiasts, the North Course enjoys one-of-a-kind golf experiences, unrivaled amenities and state-of-the-art facilities. Pause to absorb the natural beauty of signature hole No. 17, where a natural lava bed amphitheater envelops more than 100 yards of verdant fairways.

Located in Mauna Lani Resort (808) 885-6655 • MaunaLaniGolf.com 68-1050 Makaiwa Place, Kohala Coast (Map C, PG 181)

Mauna Lani - South Course GOLF COURSE on the KOHALA COAST

Located in Mauna Lani Resort (808) 885-6655 • MaunaLaniGolf.com 68-1050 Makaiwa Place, Kohala Coast (Map C, PG 181)

› LAVA AND EPIC VIEWS ABOUND › BRING YOUR SHORT-IRON GAME — AND CAMERA — TO HOLE 15

SEE + DO | GOLF

Former home to the PGA’s Senior Skins Game between 1990 and 2000, the South Course is a dramatic oasis with nods to avid golfer and famed senator, Francis H. I‘i Brown. Brush the rugged coastline in pursuit of humbling mountain and ocean views, or weave between undulating lava flows while practicing your short game. As you drive through fairways once cherished by golf icons of the past, celebrate the postcard-worthy views of No. 15, one of the world’s most photographed overthe-ocean holes.

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Waikoloa Beach Resort Golf GOLF COURSE on the KOHALA COAST

› A PERFECT COMBINATION OF NINES FORMS 27-HOLES OF GOLFING BLISS

SEE + DO | GOLF

› SHORT ON TIME? JUST PLAY NINE

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World-renowned golf has long been associated with the Kohala Coast, and Waikoloa Beach Resort is home to “Hawai‘i’s Premier 27 Hole Golf Experience.” Composed of the Beach Nine, Lakes Nine, and Kings’ Nine, each nine-hole loop at Waikoloa Beach Resort presents a unique landscape for the game along with aweinspiring views that range from the towering mountains that form the center of Hawai‘i Island to the shimmering blue Pacific Ocean. Nine-hole combinations are offered as 18-hole rounds and nine holes can be played any time of the day. Start early, and play all 27 holes in one day.

Located in Waikoloa Beach Resort (808) 886-7888 • WaikoloaBeachGolf.com 69-600 Waikoloa Beach Drive, Waikoloa (Map C, PG 181)

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SEE + DO | GOLF

Kohanaiki Golf Course GOLF COURSE on the KONA COAST

› REES JONES GOLF COURSE › 11⁄2 MILES OF COASTAL BEAUTY

SEE + DO | GOLF

› 6 OCEANFRONT HOLES

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Just when you think you’ve played everywhere, you arrive at Kohanaiki’s worldclass Rees Jones–designed Golf Course — 18 holes of engaging, highly playable golf set along Hawai‘i Island’s stunning coastline. Six oceanfront holes trace a 1½-mile shoreline, seamlessly blending the game with the surrounding natural beauty. Fairways and greens are thoughtfully routed to follow the land’s natural contours, while historic ahu and native landscapes are carefully preserved, honoring the history and spirit of this place. The back nine unfolds along the coast, offering views of white-sand beaches, expansive ocean vistas, and cooling trade winds. Signature Hole 12, a compelling par-5, plays directly toward the ocean, delivering a memorable and rewarding challenge. Reserved exclusively for members and their guests, Kohanaiki Golf Course reflects a commitment to excellence, thoughtful design, and exceptional play. Located in Kohanaiki (808) 329-5599 • Kohanaiki.com 73-2055 Ala Kohanaiki, Kailua-Kona (Map D, PG 182)

BEACHES 122 KAUNA‘OA BEACH 123 HĀPUNA BEACH STATE PARK 124 KEKAHA KAI STATE PARK 124 PUNALU‘U BEACH 125 WAIALEA BAY 125 ‘ANAEHO‘OMALU BAY

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Kauna‘oa Beach (Mauna Kea) BEACH on the KOHALA COAST

› LIMITED PARKING SO ARRIVE EARLY › MAKE SURE TO LEAVE TIME FOR LUNCH

SEE + DO | BEACHES

AND COCKTAILS AT HAU TREE

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A nationally ranked beautiful, white sand crescent beach fringed with palms and naupāka is a great place for swimming and snorkeling due to the gradually sloping sandy bottom, except during heavy winter surf. Get there early since public parking passes are limited. Lifeguard, restrooms, and showers are available. There is a reason that Laurance Rockefeller visited this site in 1960 and chose to build the Kohala Coast's first resort on this pristine beach. You'll feel like you’re in a real-life Corona commercial as you relax at this idyllic spot. Located through the entry gate to Mauna Kea Beach Resort off Hwy 19.

Located at Mauna Kea Resort 62-100 Mauna Kea Beach Dr., Kohala Coast (Map B, PG 180)

Hāpuna Beach State Park BEACH on the KOHALA COAST

Located off Hāpuna Beach Rd. and Hwy 19 Old Puakō Rd., Kohala Coast (Map B, PG 180)

› COUNTY LIFEGUARDED BEACH › BE AWARE OF SURF CONDITIONS › BRING YOUR OWN SHADE

SEE + DO | BEACHES

This splendid, large white sand beach with clear turquoise water is great for swimming, snorkeling, and body boarding. See Maui’s Haleakalā across the big blue Pacific. It’s crowded on the weekends and shade is scarce, so plan accordingly. Be careful of the strong rip currents and shore break. There is a lifeguard, picnic areas, snack stand, restrooms, and showers. Located off Hwy 19, it is adjacent to The Westin Hāpuna Beach Resort with plenty of public parking spaces. The park has free admission for Hawai’i residents and is $5 for visitors. There are also camping permits available.

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Kekaha Kai State Park BEACH on the KONA COAST

A 1,642-acre coastal state park with some of the best beaches on the island, Mahai‘ula Beach is an exquisite white sand beach great for swimming and snorkeling in the well-protected bay. About a 30-minute walk north of Mahai‘ula Beach is Makalawena Beach, one of the most stunning beaches on the island, with silky white sand and beautiful, crystal clear turquoise water with sand dunes and trees as a backdrop and a shoreline made up of intricate coves. Located about 2 miles north of Kona International Airport off Hwy 19 between mile markers 90 and 91, take the rough 1½-mile road down to the beach. Part of Kekaha Kai State Park and just a mile or so north on Hwy 19 is Kua Bay, a gorgeous, pristine white sand beach great for swimming and body boarding.

Located just north of Kona Airport Dlnr.Hawaii.gov/dsp/parks/hawaii/kekaha-kai-kona-coast-state-park HWY 19, Kailua-Kona (Map D, PG 182)

Punalu‘u Beach (Black Sand) BEACH in KA‘Ū

SEE + DO | BEACHES

Palm trees sway over this inviting black-sand lagoon, where honu (green sea turtles) often rest. Near the boat ramp at the beach’s northern end, you’ll find the ruins of a heiau (temple) and a flat sacrificial stone — reminders of the area’s deep spiritual roots. Just past the parking area, tucked inside a rock-walled enclosure near the County Park Pavilions, are ki‘i pōhaku (petroglyphs) carved into the lava; they’re easy to miss, so keep an eye out. Three more ancient heiau sit nearby. A short walk away, Nīnole Cove offers a grassy spot to relax and a calm lagoon for snorkeling, with sand channels that ease the way in. The swimming here can be rocky and dangerous, so take care. Restrooms and camping are available on-site.

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Located in Ka‘ū about 27 miles south of Volcano Take Hawaii Belt Rd. to Nīnole Loop Rd. (Map A, PG 178)

Waialea Bay (Beach 69) BEACH on KOHALA COAST

Named for the utility pole marker, this is a lovely white sand beach with crystal clear blue water that is great for swimming and snorkeling due to its sandy bottom and gradual drop off. Snorkeling is great around the rocky outcropping inside the bay, but the best snorkeling is in the southern portion where depths range from 10 to 30 feet. Mostly the water is super clear, but periodic freshwater invasion by an intermittent stream occassionally reduces surface visibility. Exercise caution during the winter months due to high surf. There is plenty of shade and restrooms and showers are available. Located off Hwy 19, turn onto Puakō Beach Dr., then take the first right onto Old Puakō Road; beach parking will be on your left. This is where the beach also gets its moniker, Beach 69, due to the number "69" utility pole close to the parking area.

Located near Puakō Old Puakō Rd., Kohala Coast (Map B, PG 180)

‘Anaeho‘omalu Bay BEACH on the KOHALA COAST

Located in Waikoloa Beach Resort 69-275 Waikoloa Beach Dr., Waikoloa (Map C, PG 181)

SEE + DO | BEACHES

“A-Bay” is a lovely, crescent beach with salt-and-pepper sand ideal for sail boarding, windsurfing, swimming, and catching a perfect sunset. Palm trees separate the Pacific from the ancient fishponds and petroglyph fields. The water is usually calm so it makes a good family beach. You can walk south on a path upon entrance of the beach to find more private white sand beaches. Equipment rental, restrooms, and showers are available. Located off Waikoloa Beach Dr. across from the Kings’ Shops and fronting the Marriott Waikoloa Beach Resort & Spa. Follow signs to beach.

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‘ULU Enjoy incredible local seafood with flavors inspired by the Pacific rim, served steps away from the ocean surf and beneath a canopy of stars at our award-winning restaurant. The culinary philosophy is to begin with ingredients from the island, and beyond – ensuring incorporation of the freshest, most sustainable ingredients available. Working with over 160 local farms, approximately 75% of the food served is from the Island of Hawai‘i, prepared oven roasted, flame grilled, and wok fired, fusing the flavors of Hawai‘i with Pan-Asian techniques. Dinner reservations required. Breakfast 6:30 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. Dinner 5:30 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. (808) 325-8000

EAT + DRINK 128 CANOEHOUSE regional cuisine 129 HĀ BAR & GRILL island-inspired & al fresco bar 130 BEACH TREE cal-ital 131 ‘ULU regional cuisine & seafood 132 MILLER & LUX HUALĀLAI steakhouse 133 NOIO japanese cuisine & sushi 134 MERIDIA mediterranean 135 HĀLANI island-inspired mediterranean 136 MANTA regional cuisine 137 COPPER BAR eurasian & craft cocktails 138 HAU TREE island-inspired & latin cuisine 139 SEAFOOD BAR & GRILL island-inspired 140 MAUNA LANI COFFEE CO. café & coffee 140 JUICE 101 health food & juice bar 141 PUEO’S OSTERIA italian cuisine 142 BROWN’S BEACH HOUSE regional cuisine 143 FORC regional cuisine 144 HONU’S ON THE BEACH island-inspired cuisine 145 GECKO GIRLZ shave ice 146 PAU HANA POKE seafood & poke 147 FISH HOPPER island cuisine

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CanoeHouse ISLAND INSPIRED on the KOHALA COAST

› ARTFULLY INSPIRED ISLAND CUISINE › DRAMATIC OCEANSIDE SETTING

EAT + DRINK

› EXTENSIVE WINE LIST

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From Duke Kahanamoku and Babe Ruth to today’s most discerning travelers, CanoeHouse has long served as a gathering place along the shores of Hawai‘i Island. Led by Executive Chef Rhoda Magbitang, winner of Bravo’s Top Chef Season 23, whose passion and artistry inform every detail, this storied restaurant celebrates its legacy through Japanese- and paniolo-inspired cuisine, warm hospitality, and a steadfast commitment to sourcing from Hawai‘i’s farmers, ranchers, and fishermen.

Located at Mauna Lani, Auberge Collection (808) 885-6622 • Auberge.com/Mauna-Lani 68-1400 Mauna Lani Dr., Kohala Coast (Map C, PG 181)

Hā Bar AL FRESCO BAR on the KOHALA COAST

Located at Mauna Lani, Auberge Collection (808) 885-6622 • Auberge.com/Mauna-Lani 68-1400 Mauna Lani Dr., Kohala Coast (Map C, PG 181)

› AL FRESCO STYLE BAR › OPEN DAILY, 11AM–9PM › PERFECT SPOT FOR SUNSET COCKTAILS

EAT + DRINK

Overlooking the Great Lawn, the Resort Pool, and the royal fishponds of Kalāhuipua’a, Hā Bar showcases creative spins on classic cocktails, shareable pupus, and alfresco ambience. Sip a Lani Tai — their take on the mai tai — before heading to the nearby Adult Pool, or stick around for live music while enjoying one of the best vantage points of golden hour.

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Beach Tree COASTAL ITALIAN on the KONA COAST

› NO BETTER PLACE TO END YOUR DAY — OR ENJOY A 3-HOUR LUNCH

EAT + DRINK

› OPEN AIR, BEACHSIDE DINING

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At the heart of Four Seasons Resort Hualālai, dine beachside next to the namesake Beach Tree. Indulge in regional Italian cuisine featuring handmade pastas and rustic yet vibrant dishes highlighting local ingredients. Enjoy nightly live entertainment and a lively atmosphere while you sample the bountiful selection of wines by the glass, locally brewed beer on tap, or handcrafted cocktails. Four Seasons Resort Hualālai is proud to support local farmers and fishermen with most of its menu items sourced locally on Hawai‘i Island. Serving lunch, dinner, and drinks daily, with Hawaiian entertainment nightly from 6 p.m.–8:30 p.m. Casual resort attire.

Located at Four Seasons Resort Hualālai (808) 325-8000 • FourSeasons.com/Hualalai 72-100 Ka'ūpūlehu Dr., Kailua-Kona (Map D, PG 182)

‘ULU REGIONAL CUISINE & SEAFOOD on the KONA COAST

Located at Four Seasons Resort Hualālai (808) 325-8000 • FourSeasons.com/Hualalai 72-100 Ka'ūpūlehu Dr., Kailua-Kona (Map D, PG 182)

› A UNIQUE DINING EXPERIENCE › CUISINE CELEBRATING LOCAL PRODUCTS › DINNER RESERVATIONS RECOMMENDED

EAT + DRINK

The Four Seasons Resort Hualālai culinary team focuses on a farm- and oceanto-table experience, curating Pan-Asian–influenced menus based on local produce and daily catch. The team here has long-standing relationships with key Hawai‘i Island farmers who produce fresh lettuces and vegetables specifically for the resort’s chefs to build seasonally inspired menus and dining experiences. ‘ULU focuses on a sustainable seafood program, using fresh prawns and oysters grown in the resort’s ponds, as well as collaborating with a Seafood Watch program to ensure Best Choice seafood options are placed on the menu. The ‘ULU chefs focus on clean and flavorful preparations, ensuring the fresh bounty of ingredients shines in their most natural state. Open daily for breakfast and dinner service.

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Miller & Lux Hualālai STEAKHOUSE on the KONA COAST

› SIGNATURE ISLAND FLAVORS & STEAKS › INTIMATE, CLUB-LIKE AMBIANCE

EAT + DRINK

› EXTENSIVE WINE LIST

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Miller & Lux Hualālai is a premier Kona dining experience by Chef Tyler Florence. Awarded “2025 Best Neighbor Island Restaurant ‘Ilima Awards” and “2025 Best Hawai‘i Island Restaurant Hale ‘Aina Awards,” Miller & Lux is inspired by the cuisine and bounty of Hawai‘i Island, featuring high-quality steaks, a robust raw bar, fresh and sustainable seafood, and farm-direct vegetables. A thoughtfully curated menu of hand-selected wines and seasonal cocktails complements the cuisine. Reservations required.

Located at Four Seasons Resort Hualālai (808) 325-8000 • FourSeasons.com/Hualalai 72-100 Ka'ūpūlehu Dr., Kailua-Kona (Map D, PG 182)

NOIO JAPANESE CUISINE & SUSHI on the KONA COAST

Located at Four Seasons Resort Hualālai (808) 325-8000 • FourSeasons.com/Hualalai/Noio 72-100 Ka'ūpūlehu Dr., Kailua-Kona (Map D, PG 182)

› SIX-COURSE OMAKASE EXPERIENCE › SUSHI LOUNGE + NIGHTLY MENU › RESERVATIONS REQUIRED

EAT + DRINK

NOIO is a picturesque oceanfront venue featuring an enchanting omakase sushi counter experience. Guests are guided through a nightly menu of the freshest fish and Japanese dishes. The intimate 12-seat omakase counter is the crown jewel where the chef presents a six-course journey comprising carefully crafted items. Guests can expect a biweekly chef’s sushi omakase along with Wagashi, Japanese confections prepared by the resort’s pastry team. NOIO received the Publisher’s Award as part of the Honolulu Star-Advertiser 2025 ‘Ilima Awards. Omakase counter seating offered nightly, at 5:45 p.m. and 8 p.m. The lounge is open from 5:30 p.m.–9:00 p.m. Closed Monday and Tuesday.

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Meridia MEDITERRANEAN on the KOHALA COAST

› AWARD-WINNING WINE LIST › CREATIVE HANDCRAFTED COCKTAILS

EAT + DRINK

› CATCH A SUNSET AT THE BAR

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Embark on a culinary journey at The Westin Hapuna Beach Resort’s signature dining experience, Meridia, where Mediterranean cuisine meets the flavors of our island paradise. The innovative menu showcases the best of seasonal ingredients, sourced locally and served alfresco alongside their own farm-to-table produce, fresh handmade pasta, and artisanal bread. Indulge in signature cocktails crafted from herbs and citrus grown in the resort’s garden, and explore the award-winning wine selection. Elevate your dining experience at Meridia, set against panoramic ocean vistas that will leave you mesmerized.

Located at The Westin Hapuna Beach Resort (808) 880-1111 • WestinHapunaBeach.com 62-100 Kauna’oa Dr., Kohala Coast (Map B, PG 180)

HāLani ISLAND-INSPIRED MEDITERRANEAN on the KOHALA COAST

Located at Mauna Lani, Auberge Collection (808) 885-6622 • Auberge.com/Mauna-Lani/Dine/HaLani 68-1400 Mauna Lani Dr., Kohala Coast (Map C, PG 181)

› OPEN DAILY 6:30AM–9PM › AL FRESCO DINING › RESERVATIONS RECOMMENDED

EAT + DRINK

Set against sweeping Pacific Ocean views, HāLani brings the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean to the Kohala Coast through an open-air dining experience rooted in Hawai‘i’s sense of place. Inspired by the coastal cuisines of Italy, Greece, and Spain, the menu celebrates locally sourced ingredients through dishes such as Broiled Lamb Chops with green chermoula and tzatziki, Ahi Steak with Mediterranean orzo and kalamata olives, signature kebab platters, house-made pastas, and wood-fired pizzettas. Fresh island seafood, seasonal produce from Hawai‘i growers, and bold Mediterranean flavors come together in a setting designed for lingering dinners beneath the glow of sunset. Complementing the menu is a thoughtfully curated selection of Mediterranean wines and craft cocktails inspired by classic coastal destinations, creating an effortless gathering place where the spirit of Hawai‘i and the Mediterranean meet.

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Manta REGIONAL CUISINE on the KOHALA COAST

› LOCALLY SOURCED INGREDIENTS › AWARD-WINNING WINE LIST

EAT + DRINK

› OPEN-AIR WITH MAGNIFICENT VIEWS

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Savor the flavors of the Kohala Coast at Manta, the signature restaurant of Mauna Kea Beach Hotel. Here, fresh local ingredients meet sweeping ocean views of Kauna‘oa Bay in a dining experience that celebrates Hawai‘i’s culinary traditions. Featuring the island’s finest seafood, premium cuts, and seasonal produce, Manta now embraces a hyper-farm-to-table philosophy, sourcing fresh herbs, fruits, and vegetables just steps away at the hotel’s on-property ‘Ulu Garden. Pair each dish with expertly crafted cocktails or selections from an award‑winning wine list and savor captivating sunsets in an atmosphere of refined elegance. Manta is the perfect setting for unforgettable evenings that embody the spirit and taste of Hawai‘i.

Located at Mauna Kea Beach Hotel (808) 882-5707 • MaunaKeaBeachHotel.com 62-100 Mauna Kea Beach Dr., Kohala Coast (Map B, PG 180)

Copper Bar RESTAURANT & BAR on the KOHALA COAST

Located at Mauna Kea Beach Hotel (808) 882-5707 • MaunaKeaBeachHotel.com 62-100 Mauna Kea Beach Dr., Kohala Coast (Map B, PG 180)

› CREATIVE ENTREES + LIVE MUSIC › CRAFT COCKTAILS › SCENIC, OPEN-AIR SETTING

EAT + DRINK

Voted one of USA Today’s Top 5 Best Beach Bars in Hawai‘i, Copper Bar is a hidden gem tucked within the iconic Mauna Kea Beach Hotel. With sweeping views of the Kohala Coast, this oceanfront haven invites guests to savor an elevated menu of island-inspired tapas, artisan flatbreads, fresh sushi hand rolls and sashimi, crisp salads, juicy burgers, and more. Sip on expertly crafted cocktails, curated wines or refreshing tap beers as the sun dips into the Pacific. As evening falls, unwind to the sounds of live Hawaiian music and graceful hula — the perfect harmony of flavor, culture, and aloha.

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Hau Tree & Hau Tree Cantina ISLAND-INSPIRED & LATIN CUISINE on the KOHALA COAST

› OPEN-AIR, BEACHFRONT SETTING › LUNCH DAILY FROM 11AM–5PM

EAT + DRINK

› DINNER DAILY FROM 5PM–8PM

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Set just steps from the sand, Hau Tree offers a relaxed open-air dining experience along the Kohala Coast, serving beachside favorites including fresh salads, burgers, wraps, and Baja-style fish tacos. As the sun sets, the restaurant transforms into Hau Tree Cantina, where contemporary regional Mexican cuisine takes center stage. Inspired by the flavors of Baja California, Oaxaca, Mexico City, Sinaloa, and Nayarit, the evening menu celebrates Hawai‘i’s multicultural heritage and the historic influence of Mexican vaqueros on Hawai‘i’s paniolo culture. Signature dishes, handcrafted cocktails, tequila, mezcal, and innovative alcohol-free creations complete the vibrant oceanfront dining experience.

Located at Mauna Kea Beach Hotel (808) 882-5707 • MaunaKeaBeachHotel.com 62-100 Mauna Kea Beach Dr., Kohala Coast (Map B, PG 180)

Seafood Bar & Grill ISLAND-INSPIRED on the KOHALA COAST

Located at Kawaihae Harbor (808) 880-9393 • SeafoodBarAndGrill.com 61-3642 Kawaihae Rd., Kawaihae (Map B, PG 180)

› HAPPY HOUR DAILY FROM 3-5PM › INVITING, AIR-CONDITIONED ATMOSPHERE › ASK ABOUT THE DAILY FISH SPECIAL

EAT + DRINK

Looking for a restaurant and bar with a chill vibe, great food, and fabulous tropical cocktails? Taking their décor cues from tiki bars of yore, Seafood Bar & Grill has the complete relaxed island atmosphere that encourages guest to come and stay awhile. Pony up to the 70-foot-long mango wood bar covered by a thatched awning complete with kitschy tiki humor and three flat-screen TVs for your sports viewing pleasure, in a nice air-conditioned space. The atmosphere, friendly staff and delicious, unpretentious food with local flair are inviting — and, you may find yourself staying a bit longer than you planned. You’re sure to have a good time here! Open Monday-Friday, 3 p.m.–9 p.m.; Saturday-Sunday, 12 p.m.–9 p.m.

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Mauna Lani Coffee Co. CAFÉ & COFFEE SHOP on the KOHALA COAST

Mauna Lani Coffee Co. is a locally owned coffee shop on the Big Island of Hawai‘i, dedicated to serving fresh-brewed Hawaiianroasted coffee, house-made bites, and tropical drinks in a warm, welcoming space. They partner with local Hawaiian coffee roasters to bring you the boldest, freshest beans — roasted right here on the island. Every cup supports the community and delivers a rich, unmistakable flavor. They believe great coffee begins at the source. That’s why they proudly serve coffee Hawaii-blend and 100 percent Kona coffees roasted by a hand-selected group of Hawaiibased roasters who share our passion for quality, sustainability, and flavor.

Located in the Shops at Mauna Lani (808) 731-4000 • MaunaLaniCoffeeCo.com 68-1330 Mauna Lani Dr. #300, Kohala Coast (Map C, PG 181)

Juice 101 HEALTH FOOD & JUICE BAR on the KOHALA COAST

EAT + DRINK

Established in 2010, Juice 101 provides customers with juices, smoothies, and dishes that are as delicious as they are healthy and nutritious. Juice 101 is constantly adapting and changing to meet your healthy cravings. They pride themselves on fresh juices and made-to-order smoothies packed with superfoods and mouthwatering flavor combinations, and their juices and smoothies are a perfect addition to their nutrient-dense salads, açaí bowls, paninis, cold wraps, and amazing breakfast offerings. Juice 101 is more than just juice; it is a feeding frenzy for your senses, an edible lifestyle lift and an energy revitalization your body demands. Whether you are vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free, bodybuilding, or paleo, there are many options to meet your needs.

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Located in the Shops at Mauna Lani (808) 887-2244 • JuiceBar101.com 68-1330 Mauna Lani Dr. #301, Kohala Coast (Map C, PG 181)

Pueo’s Osteria ITALIAN CUISINE in WAIKOLOA VILLAGE

Located in Waikoloa Plaza (808) 339-7566 • PueosOsteria.com 68-1820 Waikoloa Rd., Suite 1201, Waikoloa Village (Map A, PG 178)

› FRESH ITALIAN CUISINE › LOCAL, SEASONAL INGREDIENTS › RESERVATIONS RECOMMENDED

EAT + DRINK

Pueo’s Osteria is an award-winning Italian restaurant where tradition, craftsmanship, and discovery come together. Led by Chef James Babian, the kitchen celebrates Italy through handcrafted pastas, exceptional imported ingredients, and Hawai‘i’s finest locally sourced seafood and produce. Each month, guests embark on a culinary journey through a different region of Italy, exploring its signature dishes, wines, and traditions through thoughtfully curated seasonal menus. From the Amalfi Coast and Sardinia to Piedmont and Tuscany, every menu offers a new taste of Italy. Complementing these regional features are Pueo’s signature menu, an acclaimed Italian wine program, handcrafted cocktails, and genuine island hospitality. Dine in the elegant air-conditioned dining room or openair lānai and experience the flavors and spirit of Italy — without ever leaving Hawai‘i. Dinner nightly, 4:30–9 p.m. Bar open until 11 p.m.

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Brown’s Beach House REGIONAL CUISINE on the KOHALA COAST

› SPECTACULAR OCEANFRONT SETTING › INNOVATIVE HAWAI‘I REGIONAL CUISINE

EAT + DRINK

› LIVE HAWAIIAN MUSIC NIGHTLY

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The vistas alone are worth a leisurely evening at Brown’s Beach House, Fairmont Orchid’s signature fine dining restaurant. Perched above Pauoa Bay, this celebrated AAA Four Diamond venue takes in one of the island’s most spectacular sunset panoramas. Sit down to a decadent pa‘ina (feast) in relaxed oceanfront elegance as you indulge in fresh, innovative Hawai‘i regional cuisine sourced straight from the land and sea. Listen to live Hawaiian music featured nightly, while connecting over the most tantalizing flavors the island has to offer. Because eating and drinking isn’t just eating and drinking — it’s savoring life. E ‘ai kakou (Bon appetit)! Open daily for dinner. Reservations are recommended.

Located at Fairmont Orchid (808) 887-7320 • FairmontOrchid.com/Dine/Browns-Beach-House 1 North Kaniku Dr., Kohala Coast (Map C, PG 181)

FORC REGIONAL CUISINE in WAIMEA

Located in Waimea (808) 731-4656 • ForcHawaii.com 65-1214 Lindsey Rd, Waimea (Map F, PG 186)

› OPEN 3–9PM THURSDAY–MONDAY › RESERVATIONS RECOMMENDED › HAPPY HOUR FROM 3–4:30PM

EAT + DRINK

Located in the heart of Waimea Town, FORC’s (acronym for farmer, ocean, rancher, cook) style is open, relaxed, ‘ohana (family) friendly, and full of aloha. With a focus on Hawaiian regional flavors, award-winning Chef Allen Hess has expanded on local land and sea offerings and developed a menu both distinctive and creative. The indoor and outdoor dining rooms welcome you into a relaxed, neighborhood feel while the bar area has an authentic country style design, a nod to the area’s roots. Gather your family and special someone to feast on traditional local comfort food and hearty, seasonal dishes like Big Island grass-fed beef, whole roasted fish, and Ali'i mushroom poke. Vegetarian, paleo, and gluten free options are also available. Pair your meal with a select wine from their Sommelier’s wine list or seasonally mixed cocktail libations.

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Honu’s on the Beach ISLAND-INSPIRED on the KONA COAST

› GREAT VIEWS OF KAILUA BAY › SUNDAY BRUNCH + BOTTOMLESS MIMOSAS!

EAT + DRINK

› SATURDAY PRIME RIB + SEAFOOD BUFFET

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The signature restaurant overlooking Kamakahonu Bay at King Kamehameha Kona Beach Resort showcases island-inspired cuisine and farm-to-table dishes for a quintessential Kona dining experience. The restaurant’s breakfast and dinner menus celebrate the island’s rich culinary heritage and vibrant regional flavors, rounded out with American classics. On Saturdays, indulge in the award-winning seafood selections and prime rib buffet while enjoying breathtaking views from a spacious lānai adorned with fire pits. Join them on Sundays for their famous Sunday Brunch and add on the bottomless mimosa package from 7 a.m.–1 p.m. Paired with impeccable service every day, Honu’s restaurant in Kona is the ideal spot to relax and savor local favorites against the backdrop of Kailua Bay. Visit for breakfast daily, 6:00 a.m.–10:00 a.m. and for a breakfast buffet until 10:30 a.m. Located in the King Kamehameha Kona Beach Hotel (808) 331-6365 • KonaBeachResort.com 75-5660 Palani Rd., Kailua-Kona (Map E, PG 183)

Gecko Girlz SHAVE ICE on the KOHALA COAST & KONA COAST

GeckoGirlz.com Coconut Grove Marketplace, 75-5809 Ali‘i Dr., Kailua-Kona (Map E, PG 183) Queens Marketplace, 69-201 Waikoloa Beach Dr., #F1/F2, Waikoloa (Map C, PG 181)

› HAWAIIAN-MADE ICE CREAM › OPEN DAILY FROM 11AM–8:45PM › OUTDOOR SEATING

EAT + DRINK

Chill out with Gecko Girlz’s gourmet version of authentic Hawaiian shave ice. Using homemade recipes and healthy, locally sourced ingredients, they have made it their mission to provide the most authentic Hawaiian shave ice and sweet treats to satisfy customers’ cravings. It’s no wonder folks queue up by the dozens for one of their artisanal creations — perfectly fluffy ice doused in housemade syrups made with 100 percent natural flavors such as liliko‘i, strawberry, pineapple, yuzu, and lychee — all containing no corn syrup. Whole fruit purees are what frozensnack dreams are made of! Top to your heart’s content with toppings like liliko‘i or strawberry popping pearls, macadamia nuts or toasted coconut. Indulgent, yes, but indulgence can be healthy and, most importantly, fun! Visit this local gem to savor a vibrant array of authentically prepared and delicious flavors.

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Pau Hana Poke SEAFOOD & FISH MARKET on the KONA COAST

› FRESH, LOCAL POKE BOWLS › AHI FILETS AVAILABLE DAILY

EAT + DRINK

› A GREAT PLACE TO GET FRESH FISH

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Pau Hana Poke, owned and operated by a local family, has become a Kona favorite for offering the freshest fish and delicious sides to complement their flavorful poke selections. Located above Costco in the new industrial area, Pau Hana Poke serves up poke bowls made with fresh ingredients and fresh fish, most of which is caught by the owner in Kona waters. Enjoy favorites like spicy tuna and California roll, with several popular options for traditional sides like lomi lomi salmon, kimchee cucumbers, and seaweed salad. They also offer fresh fish for sale. Open Monday– Thursday, 10 a.m.–4 p.m.; Friday, 10 a.m.–5 p.m.; and Saturday, 10 a.m.–3 p.m. If you are looking for a fresh, healthful, sustainable fast meal, visit Pau Hana Poke.

Above Costco in New Industrial (808) 315-7952 • @pauhana_poke 73-5617 Maiau St. Bay 10, Kailua-Kona (Map D, PG 182)

Fish Hopper ISLAND CUISINE on the KONA COAST

Located near Kailua Pier (808) 326-2002 • FishHopperKona.com 75-5683 Ali‘i Dr., Kailua-Kona (Map E, PG 183)

› OCEAN VIEW + FULL BAR › BREAKFAST, LUNCH + DINNER DAILY › PRIVATE EVENTS ON THE LĀNAI

EAT + DRINK

The Fish Hopper is a casual seafood and steak restaurant in historic Kailua-Kona overlooking Kailua Bay. Enjoy local sustainable seafood, fresh local produce, and prime steaks while taking in breathtaking panoramic ocean views from any seat in their open-air dining room. Indulge in the flavors of island cuisine, featuring Poke Nachos, award-winning clam chowder, and their signature Macadamia Crusted Mahi Mahi, plus steaks, seafood pasta, salads, and sandwiches. Pair your meal with one of their exotic libations, such as their signature Bucket of Fire cocktail or Flaming Volcano. Known for Kona’s longest happy hour (11 a.m.–9 p.m.), The Fish Hopper is a must-visit for an afternoon of cocktails and pupus. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are served daily, 7 a.m.–9 p.m., with private parking available. Custom-designed events for up to 50 are their specialty. Voted best fish and seafood in West Hawai‘i Today.

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Hawaii Titanium Rings® The ORIGINAL Exotic Inlay Titanium Ring MADE IN HAWAI‘I

Each Ring is Handmade for You! Customize Yours Today!

HawaiiTitaniumRings.com Hawaii Titanium Rings Artist Studio Kaloko Light Industrial Area 73-5617 Maiau St # 5, Kailua-Kona (808) 327-4647

Hawaii Titanium Rings Shop - Ali‘i Drive Kona Inn Shopping Village 75-5744 Alii Dr, Space 190, Kailua-Kona (808) 329-8980

SHOP + STYLE 150 HILDGUND JEWELERS jewelry 152 SEASIDE LUXE boutique & fine jewelry 153 MILO lifestyle boutique 154 MAUI DIVERS JEWELRY jewelry 156 TIFFANY'S ART AGENCY art gallery 158 QUEENS’ MARKETPLACE shopping center 160 ENNS FINE ART private art gallery 161 NOA NOA apparel + artifacts 162 THE UIHĀ HAT BAR custom cowboy hats 163 THE SHOPS AT MAUNA LANI shopping center 164 ENJOY FASHION SALON salon 165 BLUE GINGER boutique & accessories 166 SASSAFRAS HAWAI‘I jewelry 166 LAVA LUXE jewelry 167 HAWAII TITANIUM RINGS jewelry 168 AHUALOA FAMILY FARMS gourmet & specialty items 168 NA HOKU jewelry 169 BIG ISLAND CANDIES gift shop & confections 170 LEHUA JEWELERS jewelry

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Hildgund Jewelers FINE JEWELRY on the KOHALA COAST

› EXTENSIVE DIAMONDS & STONES › HAWAIIAN HEIRLOOM BRACELETS

SHOP

› BESPOKE WILLIAM HENRY KNIVES

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Founded in 1873, Hildgund is the ultimate in fine custom designs and handcrafted jewelry — every piece unique by its elegance, every piece one of a kind. They have a wide selection of precious and semiprecious colored stones plus many varieties of fine jade. The almost unlimited choice of their diamond collection is only of the highest quality. Customers worldwide have returned to a Hildgund location time and again, convinced that they have found one of the finest jewelry boutiques anywhere. And for the man who has everything, be sure to check out the exclusive knife collection for Hildgund by William Henry, who creates a range of tools so perfectly conceived and executed that they transcend superlative function to become superlative art. The typical knife takes more than eight months from conception to completion, like this custom design shown. Located in Four Seasons Resort Hualālai & Mauna Kea Beach Hotel (808) 325-0606 | (808) 882-1861 • Hildgund.com 72-100 Ka'ūpūlehu Dr., Kailua-Kona (Map D, PG 182) 62-100 Mauna Kea Beach Dr., Kohala Coast (Map B, PG 180)

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Seaside Luxe BOUTIQUE & FINE JEWELRY on the KONA-KOHALA COAST

› ABOVE, ONE-OF-A-KIND EARRINGS, DESIGNED BY KAI LINZ

SHOP

› HIGH FASHION TO RESORT CASUAL

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The true definition of resort luxury can be found directly below the Four Seasons hotel lobby inside the stylish Seaside Luxe Boutique, featuring the world's most premier fashion lines. From swim wear to evening wear and for accessorizing, look for the precious gems of Sidney Garber and made in Hawai‘i heirloom jewelry by HIE. You'll also find Jimmy Choo shoes and numerous other leading footwear designers to complete your signature look. This one-of-a-kind boutique concept complements the breezy Hualālai Resort aesthetic while engaging the latest global fashion trends for an incomparable culture shopping experience. Pictured above, one-of-a-kind earrings, designed by Suzy Landa and handcrafted in New York City.

Located in Hualālai Resort (808) 325-4765 • HualalaiResort.com 72-100 Ka'ūpūlehu Dr., Kailua-Kona (Map D, PG 182)

Milo at Mauna Lani LIFESTYLE BOUTIQUE on the KOHALA COAST

Located at Mauna Lani, Auberge Collection (808) 885-6622 • Auberge.com/Mauna-Lani 68-1400 Mauna Lani Dr., Kohala Coast (Map C, PG 181)

› EMERGING DESIGNERS › SUSTAINABLE BRANDS › SEASONAL TRUNK SHOWS

SHOP

Milo, Mauna Lani’s lifestyle boutique, celebrates the joy of travel with a curated collection of clothing, accessories and refined home luxuries. Discover styles that carry you from adventures aboard Kalama Kai to sunset dinners at CanoeHouse, along with thoughtful pieces for family and friends back home. Shop bespoke luxury brands including Zimmermann, Eres Swimwear, Frank & Eileen, Xirena, Orlebar Brown, Onia, and Goshwara Fine Jewelry. Throughout the year, enjoy seasonal pop-ups and sip-and-shop experiences in collaboration with world-class designers. Open daily.

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Maui Divers Jewelry JEWELRY on the KOHALA COAST

› EXCLUSIVELY MADE IN HAWAI‘I › FOREVER GUARANTEE (WARRANTY)

SHOP

› PEARLS, GEMS & DIAMONDS

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Maui Divers began its journey in 1958 as an undersea exploration company. During an expedition in the Moloka‘i Channel, they made an incredible discovery: beds of black coral at depths of over 200 feet. Recognizing the potential for something truly remarkable, they polished these deep-sea corals, revealing their stunning luster. This significant find led to the establishment of Maui Divers Jewelry in 1959 and ultimately to the recognition of Hawaiian black coral as Hawai‘i’s state gem in 1987. Today, Maui Divers Jewelry proudly carries on its legacy, creating exclusive made in Hawai‘i keepsakes with quality craftsmanship, expert design, and a famous Forever Guarantee. With a long-standing commitment to customers and a promise to stand behind each piece, it’s no wonder they continue to be loved and trusted. Visit a store across Hawai‘i or shop at MauiDivers.com to experience each signature creation. Located in Queens' Marketplace (808) 886-4817 • MauiDivers.com 69-201 Waikoloa Beach Dr., #J11, Waikoloa Beach Resort (Map C, PG 181)

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Tiffany's Art Agency PRIVATE ART GALLERY in NORTH KOHALA

› ORIGINAL WORKS FEATURING HAWAI‘I'S FINEST ARTISTS AT THREE VENUES

SHOP

› CURATION SERVICE

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Tiffany’s Art Agency connects collectors with exceptional, original artwork by established and emerging Hawai‘i-based artists. These artists document island life, and the energy of the place carries through in their work. The agency offers carefully curated art experiences alongside private art consulting, commissions, and collection development services. Whether the goal is a single statement piece or artwork for an entire home, Tiffany’s builds a cohesive collection tailored to each client’s aesthetic. Collectors can purchase online or contact founder Tiffany DeEtte Shafto directly, who guides each buyer from mock-ups to shipping to delivery and installation along the Kona-Kohala Coast. Beyond the private gallery, the island’s largest local art gallery unfolds as a self-guided art walk through the halls and open spaces at Mauna Lani, Auberge Collection, while changing exhibits fill Hualālai Realty at Four Seasons Resort Hualālai. (808) 747-5882 • TiffanysArtAgency.com Private Gallery in Hāwī - By Appointment Only (Map G, PG 184)

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Queens’ Marketplace SHOPPING CENTER on the KOHALA COAST

› SIGNATURE EVENTS › CASUAL & SIT-DOWN DINING

SHOP

› LOCAL SHOPS & BOUTIQUES

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Located on the Kohala Coast, Queens’ Marketplace is a vibrant open-air shopping and entertainment destination offering a relaxed, island-style experience for all ages. Discover a blend of local boutiques, national retailers, art galleries, diverse dining options, and everyday conveniences. With a full calendar of weekly, monthly, and annual events, Queens’ Marketplace is a lively gathering place for both locals and visitors.

Located in Waikoloa Beach Resort (808) 886-8822 • QueensMarketPlace.com 69-201 Waikoloa Beach Dr., Waikoloa (Map C, PG 181)

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Enns Fine Art

Hapuna Dreamscape 2026

PRIVATE ART GALLERY on the KOHALA COAST

› OIL PAINTINGS, SCULPTURES & ONE-OF-A-KIND FINE ART

SHOP

› BY APPOINTMENT

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Christian Enns creates bespoke commissioned works that transform exceptional homes into personal masterpieces. Inspired by the beauty and spirit of Hawai‘i, his paintings are renowned for their depth, elegance, and polished tropical sophistication. For discerning homeowners, finding the perfect piece to complement your residence’s aesthetic can be challenging — balancing color palette, theme, composition, and scale to achieve harmony. Each commission is thoughtfully designed to complement your home’s architecture, palette, and vision, resulting in a one-of-a-kind work that reflects your taste and lifestyle. For collectors, connoisseurs, and homeowners who value originality and artistry, a commissioned piece by Enns offers more than art — it is an enduring expression of taste, beauty, and distinction that seamlessly integrates fine art into your residence. Currently showing original works for sale at The Westin Hapuna Beach Resort within Mauna Kea Resort.

Private studio gallery in Puakō by appointment (808) 895-1473 • EnnsFineArt.com

Noa Noa BOUTIQUE on the KOHALA COAST

Located in Kings' Shops & The Westin Hapuna Beach Resort (808) 886-5449 • NoaNoaHawaii.com 69-250 Waikoloa Beach Dr. #B-5, Waikoloa (Map C, PG 181) 62-100 Kauna‘oa Dr., Kamuela (Map B, PG 180)

› ONE-OF-A-KIND JEWELRY › HAND-BATIKED NATURAL FABRICS › HAWAIIAN TAPA & ETHNIC DESIGNS

SHOP

Noa Noa presents a profusion of patterns and colors in traditional Hawaiian and Pacific island tapa and ethnic designs from around the world. Hand-batiked allnatural fabrics include cottons, rayons, silks, and linens. As you walk through their stores you will notice that the displays include many interesting and unique pieces. These artifacts include 12th- to 19th-century Chinese and Thai ceramics, Ikat weaving, ceremonial masks from Borneo, Java, Papua New Guinea, Sumatran Batiks, baskets, drums, an extensive collection of tapa cloth from Fiji, Samoa, Borneo, Toraja, Papua New Guinea, and Irian Jaya. Noa Noa jewelry is exclusive and one-of-a-kind. Noa Noa jewelry has been hand-selected from Indonesia, Thailand, Burma, Mexico, Morocco, and Africa and is made of gold, silver, and a variety of other natural materials.

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The Uihā Hat Bar by Hula Tease CUSTOM COWBOY HATS in WAIMEA

› OPEN MON-SAT, 10AM–5PM › CUSTOM BRANDING OPTIONS

SHOP

› BOOK A PRIVATE EVENT

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Step into the heart of Waimea at The Uihā Hat Bar, where Hawai‘i’s paniolo (cowboy) spirit lives on. Nestled among the historic Parker Ranch lands, this unique destination offers a one-of-a-kind hat-making experience found nowhere else in the islands. It pays tribute to the lasting Lindsey Family legacy and the rugged traditions that shaped Hawai‘i’s cowboy country. Visitors are encouraged to forge their own path by crafting a cowboy hat imbued with the same grit, grace, resilience, and pride that define this land. Every step connects you to Waimea’s story and invites you to become part of it. Here, you write your own chapter — one that celebrates legacy, family, and ‘āina (land). Come for the culture, stay for the experience, and leave with something rare: a piece of Waimea that will call to you each time you wear it.

Located in Parker Ranch Center UihaHatBar.com 67-1185 Māmalahoa Hwy., Waimea (Map F, PG 184)

The Shops at Mauna Lani SHOPPING CENTER on the KOHALA COAST

Located in Mauna Lani Resort (808) 885-9501 • TheShopsAtMaunaLani.com 68-1330 Mauna Lani Dr., Kohala Coast (Map C, PG 181)

› OPEN DAILY, 10AM–9PM › RESTAURANTS & LOCAL SHOPS › LOCAL ARTISAN MARKET EVERY MONDAY

SHOP

From fresh island juices at sunrise to dining at sunset, leisure meets luxury at The Shops at Mauna Lani. Set along the stunning Kohala Coast, this curated destination offers more than exceptional flavors — it’s a complete island lifestyle experience. Wander through boutiques featuring island-inspired fashion, discover shops celebrating local craftsmanship, and explore wellness sanctuaries offering rejuvenating experiences. Gourmet provisions and trusted services, including real estate expertise, enrich your connection to island living. Between shopping and dining, pause in open-air gathering spaces where ocean breezes carry the aloha spirit. Here, authenticity and elegance naturally converge, creating moments that feel both elevated and warmly familiar — a reflection of Hawai‘i’s gracious hospitality and the refined ease of resort living at its finest.

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Enjoy Fashion Salon SALON in WAIMEA

› ITALIAN STYLE MEETS BIG ISLAND ‘OHANA › GET NOT JUST A HAIRCUT, BUT A WORK

SHOP

OF ART!

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With a passion for excellence and attention to detail, the renowned “Made in Italy” luxury experience has thrived on the Big Island for six years. Since opening, Enjoy Fashion Salon has infused Italian elegance into Hawai‘i, offering cuttingedge hairstyling and brilliant color transformations. Owners Francesco Pucci and Katia Vasciminno — who have over 20 years of experience in the industry at their flagship salon in Torino, Italy — are honored to celebrate this important milestone. They serve local and international clients with their signature European approach: bespoke, refined, and evolving. Their techniques are continuously updated through research and training at top fashion academies, ensuring each client experiences nothing short of excellence. As they mark their sixth anniversary, Francesco and Katia express heartfelt gratitude to the Big Island community for its warmth, trust, and support. Here’s to many more beautiful transformations ahead! Located in Parker Ranch Center (808) 731-6165 • EnjoyFashionHawaii.com 67-1185 Mamalahoa Hwy., Suite F129, Waimea (Map F, PG 184)

Blue Ginger BOUTIQUE & ACCESSORIES on the KOHALA COAST

Located in Queens' Marketplace (808) 886-0022 • BlueGinger.com 69-201 Waikoloa Beach Dr. #K2, Waikoloa (Map C, PG 181)

› LIVE THE ALOHA LIFESTYLE › MATCHING FAMILY PRINTS › TIMELESS RESORTWEAR

SHOP

Live the aloha lifestyle in tropical resort wear from Blue Ginger. Perfect for any island occasion, Blue Ginger offers colorful, timeless resort wear sure to bring smiles and warm memories of the islands. Original batik prints inspired by the beauty of the Hawaiian Islands are available in comfortable clothing for all ages. A family run establishment, Blue Ginger has long been an island favorite with kama‘āina and visitors alike. With eight locations throughout the Hawaiian Islands, Blue Ginger has something for everyone, from the youngest keiki on up. Colorful sundresses, caftans, aloha shirts, accessories, and more. Celebrating over 40 years of living the aloha lifestyle, these exclusive prints and fashions continue to delight multiple generations.

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Sassafras Hawai‘i JEWELRY in WAIMEA & KONA

Since 2010, the Sassafras ‘ohana has elevated Hawaiian jewelry design through exceptional craftsmanship and artistry. As talented goldsmiths and designers, Peggy, Charlie, and Elle transform precious metals and natural treasures into wearable art that captures the Big Island’s spirit. Each piece is meticulously handcrafted in solid 14-karat gold or sterling silver, incorporating unenhanced gemstones and luminous South Sea shells. More than creating Hawai‘i-inspired keepsakes, the family brings their deep commitment to quality and creativity to every design. Find these exclusive collections only at their family boutiques in Kona and Waimea, where three generations of craftsmanship meet contemporary island style.

(808) 775-1821 • SassafrasHawaii.com 65-1279 Kawaihae Rd., Ste. 106, Waimea (Map F, PG 184) 75-6129 Ali‘i Dr, Kailua-Kona (Map C, PG 181)

Lava Luxe by Elle JEWELRY in KONA

SHOP

Step into Lava Luxe by Elle, where Hawaiian artistry meets contemporary elegance. Founded by celebrated goldsmith and jewelry designer Elle Mercer of the Sassafras Hawai‘i family, this jewelry studio transforms Polynesian stories and legends into wearable masterpieces. Each piece in the collection — crafted in lustrous 14-karat gold or sterling silver — tells a story of island heritage through meticulous detail and inspired design. Mercer, whose acclaimed “Sassy” brand emerged from a family legacy shared with Peggy and Charlie, brings her distinctive vision to every creation. More than just a collection of Hawai‘i-inspired keepsakes, the pieces represent quality craftsmanship and true inspiration— including their impressive collection of Tahitian and South Sea pearls. Available exclusively through their family boutiques, Lava Luxe by Elle pieces have adorned generations of collectors who cherish their beauty and cultural significance.

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Located in the Kona Inn Shopping Village (808) 329-5282 • LavaLuxeByElle.com 75-5744 Ali‘i Dr., Suite 141, Kailua-Kona (Map C, PG 181)

Hawaii Titanium Rings JEWELRY on the KONA COAST

Two locations in Kailua-Kona (808) 756-1173 • HawaiiTitaniumRings.com 75-5744 Ali'i Drive, #190 (Map E, PG 183) 73-5617 Maiau St., Unit 5 (Map D, PG 182)

› ORIGINAL HAWAII-MADE DESIGNS › TRUE MATCHING RING SETS & SAME INLAY › COMPLIMENTARY INSIDE ENGRAVING

SHOP

Hawaii Titanium Rings® on the Kona Coast offers one-of-a-kind, handcrafted rings made exclusively from 100 percent hypoallergenic, aerospace-grade titanium, with all sizes available and precisely fitted. Hand-inlaid with a selection of over 60 exotic woods and minerals, the superior quality, durability, and unique designs are exclusive to them, with the broadest selection of titanium rings for every occasion, all of which are customizable. Personalized engraving is available, along with lifetime sizing and warranty. Hawaii Titanium Rings® has been in business for over 25 years, with its original two locations in Kailua-Kona. Drop by the downtown Ali‘i Dr. location daily, 10 a.m.–6 p.m., or pull up a chair and custom-design your ring(s) at their Artist Manufacturing Studio on Maiau Street (above Costco). Hours vary at the manufacturing studio, so appointments are highly recommended.

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Āhualoa Family Farms GOURMET & SPECIALTY ITEMS on the HĀMĀKUA COAST

Nourish yourself with the extraordinary power of Hawai‘i’s iconic nut! Āhualoa Family Farms grows, processes, and produces delectable 100 percent Hawai‘i-grown macadamia nuts, 100 percent Hāmākua coffee, spreads, dressings, granola, and more. Indulge in the buttery, rich flavor of Big Island’s finest gourmet macadamias, carefully roasted to perfection. All their premium-flavored mac nuts are handmade in small batches using real ingredients. With 11 flavors, the hardest part is choosing a favorite. Nuts about chocolate? Try their chocolate-covered macadamia nuts, chocolate-covered coffee beans, and onolicious house-made macadamia nut chocolate spread, Macnella. They also offer 100 percent Hāmākua coffee — uniquely smooth, full-bodied, and low in acidity. Located in historic Honoka‘a town, the gateway to Waipi‘o Valley, stop by “The Nuthouse” and see what’s crackin’! Drop in for free samples, relax with coffee on the ocean-view lānai, and take home your favorite creation crafted with aloha!

Located in Honoka‘a town (808) 775-1821 • AhualoaFamilyFarms.com 45-3279 Mamane St, Honoka‘a (Map A, PG 178)

Na Hoku JEWELRY on the KONA & KOHALA COASTS

SHOP

The essence of Hawaiian lifestyle and tradition has been captured in the Na Hoku collection of fine jewelry. Hawaiian for “stars,” Na Hoku also stands for incomparable quality and craftsmanship. At Na Hoku, you will find original pieces set with Tahitian pearls, diamonds, and colored gemstones, as well as collections by renowned designers such as Kabana®, Le Vian,® and Effy®. Every piece of Hawaiian and Island lifestyle jewelry is designed to accent the individuality, taste, and style of the one who wears it, and will forever be a memento of a treasured time in the islands.

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NaHoku.com Kona Marketplace • (808) 329-5080 (Map C, PG 181) Kings' Shops, Waikoloa • (808) 886-7599 (Map C, PG 181) Hilton Waikoloa Village • (808) 886-5019 (Map C, PG 181)

Big Island Candies GIFT SHOP & CONFECTIONS in HILO

Located in Hilo (808) 935-8890 • BigIslandCandies.com 585 Hinano St., Hilo (Map H, PG 185)

› GIVE THE GIFT OF HAWAI‘I! › ONLY THE HIGHEST QUALITY INGREDIENTS › FEATURING FRESH LOCAL PRODUCTS

SHOP

Big Island Candies’ flagship store in Hilo is a “feast for your senses.” From the moment you walk through the doors, the aroma of shortbread fills the air. Stroll and shop for gifts featuring an assortment of individually wrapped goodies in packaging that celebrates the joy of the seasons and the natural beauty of Hawai‘i. Representatives are happy to answer questions about products to help you find the right item. And large windows allow you to view the factory to watch artisans create signature dipped shortbreads — and more — right before your eyes! Experience why Big Island Candies has been the go-to destination for Hawai‘i’s finest cookies, chocolates, and confections since 1977. Before heading out, stop by the snack bar, which offers local favorite lunch options, ice cream, smoothies, and other refreshments. The store is open daily, 8:30 a.m.–5 p.m., with factory viewing Monday–Friday, 8:30 a.m.–3:30 p.m.

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Lehua Jewelers JEWELRY in WAIMEA

› DESIGNER JEWELRY COLLECTION › HAWAIIAN HEIRLOOM COLLECTION

SHOP

› JEWELRY REPAIRS

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Sharon Gilbert, a bench goldsmith and jewelry designer, has crafted exquisite jewelry pieces since 1975. A UH Mānoa fine arts graduate, her passion for jewelry blossomed during her high school years, and in 1985, she opened Lehua Jewelers, a beacon of handcrafted excellence that has guided her ever since. The captivating beauty of lehua and other Hawaiian flowers has inspired Sharon to create one-of-a-kind scrolls for traditional Hawaiian heirloom jewelry. These intricate designs are meticulously engraved into gold bracelets, pendants, and rings. The scrolls are then adorned with black lettering, often bearing the wearer’s name, in a traditional technique that uses genuine black glass enamel. This technique stands out for its exceptional durability and aesthetic appeal. Lehua Jewelers also offers raised letters in gold, complemented by the absence of enamel. Lehua Jewelers has gained widespread recognition for its remarkable contribution of the “Miss Aloha Hula” award bracelet each year at the Merrie Monarch Festival in Hilo. Located in Waimea Center (808) 885-6448 • LehuaJewelers.com 65-1158 Māmalahoa Hwy., Suite 14, Kamuela (Map F, PG 184)

ISLAND LIVING 172 HUALĀLAI RESORT resort living & real estate 174 KAREN FERRARA, MBA luxury real estate advisor

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Hualālai Resort RESORT LIVING on the KONA-KOHALA COAST

› FIVE-STAR RESORT AMENITIES › THE HUALĀLAI CLUB LIFESTYLE

ISLAND LIVING

› MAUKA TO MAKAI PARADISE

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Hualālai Resort is located in the ahupua‘a (land division) of Ka‘ūpūlehu. Here, the land is rich in lore, natural resources, and plant and sea life. This coastal land once known as a fishing village, transformed into the coastal community that has set the new standard in hospitality. Hualālai is a small part of the island’s rich exploration, welcoming a new generation to live and stay. Come explore the culture, share the adventures and fall in love with the spirit of Hualālai. There’s nothing more rewarding than calling this magical mauka-to-makai (mountainto-sea) paradise on Hawai‘i Island’s Kona-Kohala Coast home. Whether you’re in search of a traditional Hawaiian hale (house) or a more contemporary villa, homes at Hualālai surround you with breathtaking beauty, provides you with ever-expanding activities and instills you with aloha spirit.

Hualālai Realty (808) 325-8500 • HualalaiRealty.com 72-100 Ka‘ūpūlehu Dr., Kailua-Kona (Map D, PG 182)

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ISLAND LIVING

Karen Ferrara, MBA LUXURY REAL ESTATE ADVISOR on the KOHALA COAST

› HONESTY. INTEGRITY. EXPERIENCED. › RANKED IN THE TOP 1/2 OF 1% IN SALES VOLUME OF REALTORS IN US-“AMERICA’S

BEST” BY REAL TRENDS VERIFIED, 2024

ISLAND LIVING

› BESPOKE SERVICE

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Exceptional clients. Exceptional properties. Karen Ferrara is an award-winning Real Estate Executive with over 15 years in Luxury Real Estate. Karen commits wholeheartedly to her clients and considers it an honor to be a part of one of the most important financial and emotional decisions of a client’s life. Karen fosters a bespoke, client-centered approach, offering the warmth, respect, and dedication you’d expect from a trusted family member. Karen is a founding member of Compass Hawai‘i and Realm Global, an invitation only organization extended only to the top 1% of Luxury Real Estate professionals. Karen and her husband support several local nonprofit community programs such as the Kahilu Theatre, Hawai‘i Island Humane Society, and North Hawaii Hospice. Karen enjoys spending time with family and friends, playing golf at Mauna Kea, walks at Kauna‘oa Beach, and passionately supports local small businesses, artists, chefs, and farmers. Karen loves patronizing her favorite restaurants and hosting or attending a great wine dinner. More than anything, Karen is deeply grateful for her ‘ohana, friends, neighbors, and fur babies who fill life with love and laughter. Karen Ferrara, MBA, REALTOR® Founding Partner, Compass Hawaii | Founding Member, Realm Global (808) 883-0094 • karen@karenferrara.com KarenFerrara.com • License #RS-72752

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ISLAND LIVING

�fINDICH i

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-----SINCE 1980-----

Fine Oriental Carpets & Hawaiian Rugs®

Honolulu - Nimitz Hwy

Honolulu - Ward Ave

SERVICING ALL ISLANDS

Hawaiian rugs.com Maui

Kona

Na Lama Kukui

550 Ward Ave.

259 East Wakea Ave.

Kaloko Business Center V

(formerly the Gentry Pacific Design Center)

Honolulu, HI 96814

Kahului, HI 96732

73-5617 Maiau St.

560 N. Nimitz Hwy #101, Honolulu, HI 96817

808.596.7333

808.877.7200

Kailua-Kona, HI 96740

808.524.7769

Monday-Saturday:

Monday-Friday:

808.329.6500

Monday-Saturday: 9:30-5:30, closed Sunday

10-6, Sunday: 10-4

9:30-5:30 & by appointment

Monday-Sunday: 10-6

MAPS 178 180 181 182 183 184 184 185

ISLAND MAP the Big Island KOHALA COAST Puako to Kawaihae KOHALA COAST Waikoloa Beach Resort to Mauna Lani KONA COAST Honokohau Harbor to Hualālai Resort KONA COAST Kailua-Kona to Keauhou WAIMEA aka Kamuela NORTH KOHALA Hawi to Kapa‘au HILO on the bay

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MAP A

11 14

178

HAWAI‘I ISLAND 12

6 1 1 6

—

1 ‘Akaka & Kahuna Falls 2 Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park 3 Lapakahi State Park 4 Place of Refuge 5 Pololū Valley 6 The Umauma Experience 7 Waipi‘o Valley 8 Botanical World Adventures 9 Bird and Bee Hawai‘i 10 Papakōlea Beach (Green Sand) 11 Punalu‘u Beach (Black Sand) 12 Umekes Restaurant 13 Pueo’s Osteria 14 Punalu‘u Bake Shop 15 Black Rock Pizza 16 Waikoloa Plaza 17 Ahualoa Family Farms

LEGEND

See + Do Golf Beaches Shop Eat + Drink Live Stay

179

MAP B

12 2

PUAKO TO KAWAIHAE

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22

Pu‘ukoholā Heiau Big Island Shaka Hāpuna Beach State Rec Area Kauna‘oa (Mauna Kea) Beach Mau‘umae Beach Spencers Beach Park Waialea Bay (Beach 69) Hapuna Golf Course Mauna Kea Golf Course Hildgund Jewelers Noa Noa Seafood Bar & Grill Copper Bar Number 3 Manta Meridia Hau Tree The Mauna Kea Lūa‘u Amaui Villas at Mauna Kea Mauna Kea Beach Hotel The Westin Hāpuna Beach Hotel Hāpuna Beach Residences

13 17 9 4

19 12

—

180

MAP C 1 20 12

WAIKOLOA BEACH TO MAUNA LANI

27 15

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 7 7 8 9 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 15 16 16 17 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27

6 22 24

21 7 7

14 10

Hawai‘iloa Lū‘au Kona Kozy Lū‘au o Hale Hoaloha ‘Anaeho‘omalu Beach (A-Bay) Mauna Lani Golf - North & South Courses Waikoloa Beach Resort Golf Kings' Shops Noa Noa Na Hoku - Kings' Shops Na Hoku - Hilton Waikoloa Village Queens' MarketPlace Blue Ginger Maui Divers Jewelry Shops at Mauna Lani Binchotan: Bar & Grill Brown's Beach House CanoeHouse Hā Bar The Market Gecko Girlz Waikoloa Shrimp Co. Mauna Lani Coffee Co. Juice 101 Tequilas Island Hopper Fairmont Orchid Hilton Waikoloa Village Hilton Grand Vacations - Ocean Tower Hilton Grand Vacations - Kohala Suites Hilton Grand Vacations - The Bay Club Hilton Grand Vacations - Kings' Land Marriott Waikoloa Beach Resort & Spa Mauna Lani, Auberge Resorts Collection

16 9

181

MAP D 17 14 12 13 5

21 4

10 11

HUALĀLAI RESORT TO HONOKOHAU 1 2 3 4 5 5 6 7 8 9 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 17 18 19 20 21 22

Hawaii Forest & Trail Honokohau Harbor NELHA The Kona Village Lū‘au Hualālai Golf Course Hualālai Golf Hale Kohanaiki Golf Course Kekaha Kai State Park Costco Indich Collection Hawaii Titanium Rings Hildgund Jewelers Seaside Luxe Beach Tree Hualālai Grille ‘ULU Ocean Grill Pau Hana Poke Kona Wine Market Kahuwai Cookhouse & Market Moana Hualālai Realty Kohanaiki Kūki‘o Golf & Beach Club Four Seasons Resort Hualālai Kona Village, A Rosewood Resort

15 1

9 19

182

MAP E

12 13 8 18 14

4 3

1 5

KAILUA-KONA TO KEAUHOU

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21

Body Glove Cruises Fair Wind Cruises Island Breeze Lū‘au Ahu‘ena Heiau Kailua Pier Magic Sands Beach Kahalu‘u Beach Park Body Glove Retail Store Na Hoku Hawaii Titanium Rings Sassafras Umekes Fish Market Bar & Grill Willie's Hot Chicken Honu’s on the Beach Fish Hopper Walua Social Gecko Girlz King Kamehameha's Kona Beach Hotel Royal Kona Resort Royal Sea Cliff Outrigger Kona at Keauhou Bay

2 21

183

3 9

7 6 1

10 5

MAP F

1 2 3 4 4

WAIMEA (KAMUELA)

‹−

Kahilu Theatre Kamuela Liquor Store FORC Waimea Town Market Hiko Ito Custom Knives

5 6 7 8 9 10

Enjoy Fashion Salon Parker Square Sassafras Hawaii Lehua Jewelers Parker Ranch Center The Uihā Hat Bar

MAP G

HĀWĪ + KAPA‘AU

184

1 2 3 4

King Kamehameha Statue Kohala Zipline Kohala Coffee Mill Bamboo Restaurant

5 Tiffany's Art Agency (By Appt. Only) 6 Gary Ackerman | Ackerman Galleries

MAP H

6 3

HILO

1 2 3 4

Polynesian Adventure Tours Rainbow Falls Hilo Farmers Market Big Island Candies

5 6 7 8

Miyo's Restaurant Mohala's Bayfront Fish & Chips Hawaiian Style Cafe Grand Naniloa Hotel - DoubleTree

185

TRAVELOGUE 187 NOTES + SKETCHES document your travel adventures, the places you visit, experiences you encounter, or something weird you saw at the pool. 188 ITINERARY PLANNER prefer to keep it analog? You can still get the most out of your trip and start planning your itinerary here, just grab a pen and do it old school. DOWNLOAD THE SAVVY360 APP This link will take you to the appropriate app store to install the app, where you can create a trip, start building your itinerary, collaborate with friends, and more...

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Hawai‘i Island

MY SKETCHES

187

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PLAN YOUR PERFECT TRIP Download the Savvy360 app and get more out of your Hawai‘i experience.

Scan to get the SAVVY360 app

Or visit SAVVY360.com

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