Captain James Cook was a British sailor who changed the course of history for Hawaii.

He sailed his two ships, Resolution and Discovery, into Waimea Harbor in January 1778. Cook was reportedly the first westerner to ever set foot on the Hawaiian islands.

Captain Cook had explored several of the Hawaiian Islands until he was tragically killed in 1779 on the Big Island of Hawaii. The reason was a petty dispute over a rowboat.

The monument of Captain Cook is located in Hofgaard Park, in Waimea on West Kauai.

Cook’s monument is actually a replica of the one that stands in his home town of Whitby, England.

Directions:
From Highway 50 (West) from Hanapepe, Waimea is located around Mile Marker #23. The Captain Cook monument is located in the downtown area in Hofgaard Park.

Courtesy of: Waikiki Parc Hotel

Happy Holidays and welcome to the luxury Waikiki Parc Hotel on Oahu.

This year, the Waikiki Parc Hotel is pleased to present its third annual “A COOL CHRISTMAS AT THE PARC” which is inspired for its guests.

From December 16th – 25th Waikiki Parc invites its guests to experience daily, festive experiences.

Enjoy daily matinee holiday films poolside in the roof-top home theater – Merge.

Check out the chicest nine days of festive fun in paradise, including events at Nobu Waikiki, leading up to the BIG DAY!

Waikiki Parc Hotel
2233 Helumoa Road
Honolulu, Hawaii 96815
(800) 422-0450

There is nothing better than to enjoy a romantic sunset sail off the scenic coast of western Maui. The combination of the setting golden sun, tropical blue waters, and lush landscape of Maui’s western coast … make for a perfect combination.

If you’re looking for the best sunset cruise on Maui, then your only choice is the Alii Nui.

When passengers first board the Alii Nui catamaran, they will notice that this isn’t just your ordinary catamaran. It’s a truly, luxury boat and the very best in all of Maui.

The phrase Alii Nui represents “Highest of Royalty” in the Hawaiian language, and the description couldn’t be any more perfect.

This brand new, luxury catamaran is an impressive sight. It measures 65 feet from stem to stern and 36 feet from port to starboard.

The Alii Nui has a lot of deck space, including multiple trampolines which are similar to hammock-like lounging areas.

The all-weather, covered cabin is extremely roomy with plenty of space to mingle and socialize. It includes 8 tables and comfortable seating – for either intimate chats or large group discussions.

Other amenities include two over-sized bathrooms, a fresh water shower, as well as easy access stairs allowing passengers to safely enter the warm, Pacific Ocean waters.

Alii Nui offers three different excursions catering to the variety of customer needs 1) Morning Snorkel 2) Whale Watch and 3) the Sunset Sail.

The Morning Snorkel Sail is a fun and exciting adventure, providing the opportunity to view Maui’s fabulous sea life up close.  The trip includes many luxury amenities such as: premium snorkel gear, wet suit tops, optical masks, boogie boards, large terry beach towels. When finished, use the heated fresh water shower to freshen up. Food is also included – a continental breakfast, snacks, plus a deluxe lunch.

The Whale Watch excursion is a once in a lifetime experience to see these large, graceful mammals up close. During whale season (typically December 15 through April 15), enjoy a cruise on the Alii Nui and view migrating humpback whales with in-depth narration by the boat’s trained crew.

The Sunset Sail is an unforgettable experience. It’s a magical two-hour cruise just off the coast of West Maui. As you leave Maalaea Harbor, you quickly realize that all your worries are forgotten. It’s just you and the open ocean …. in all it’s glory.

Once you set sail, you are in good hands with a top-notch expert crew.  They are experienced, fun and very helpful – always offering assistance to make your journey an excellent and memorable experience.

To quench your thirst and appetite, Alii Nui offers a fabulous selection of drinks and food served on the “Captain’s Table” in the spacious, covered cabin.. Enjoy Mai Tai’s, a selection of white wine, champagne, both imported and domestic beer, soda and juice.

The array of appetizers is mouth watering. Indulge your taste buds with these tasty dishes:
– Roasted Pepper & Garlic Hummus & Pita Bread
– Marinated Sliced Breast of Chicken
– BBQ Pulled Pork with Rolls
– Zesty Pasta Salad
– Caesar Salad Wraps
– Crudite of Island Vegetables and Spinach Dip
– Assortment of Cheese and Crackers
– Tropical Fruit Platter

As the sun sets in the Pacific Ocean, it creates a kaleidoscope sky beaming yellow, orange and purple colors. Grab your cameras and savor the moment.

But before you know it, it’s time to head back to the harbor. The  end of an unforgettable evening and an amazing boating experience.

For more information about all of Alii Nui’s excursions, please visit:
Alii Nui
1- 800-542-3483 – Ext. 1
1-808-875-0333 (Local)

The luxury Royal Lahaina Resort is located on a secluded half-mile stretch of Kaanapali Beach, which is one of the most beautiful stretches of sandy beach in the world.

Sitting on 27-acres of lush tropical gardens and oceanfront lawns, the Royal Lahaina Resort also offers 22 garden and beach cottages. In addition is the 12-story Lahaina Kai Tower.

Hotel guests have the chance to swim, snorkel, and scuba in the aqua blue waters directly in front of this luxurious resort.

During the winter months, visitors can sit back and enjoy viewing dolphins and whales frolicking in the Pacific Ocean, directly in front of the resort.

The rooms at the Royal Lahaina Resort are not like your typical hotel. They were designed with both you and Hawaii in mind. You can sense that “Aloha Spirit” as soon as you enter your room.

The resort’s rooms and suites are modern and spacious. They feature Presidential Diamond Suite Plush Beds, custom artwork created by “Joss”, 32″ high-definition flat panel TV’s, Sharper Image sound system with an MP3 player and iPod ports, cordless telephone and high-speed Internet service.

The Royal Lahaina Resort offers patrons two fine dining restaurants – the Royal Ocean Terrace, which features American classics and Pacific Fusion cuisine, and Basil Tomatoes, offering Italian specialties.

Enjoy a tropical drink at the Barefoot Bar which is located beachside near one of the resort’s oceanfront swimming pools. Enjoy gorgeous ocean views and drinks at the Royal Ocean Terrace Lounge. Don the Beachcomber Tiki Lounge is another terrific hangout to enjoy your Mai Tai’s.

Each night, there’s a traditional torch-lighting ceremony that takes place as the orange sun sets on the Pacific Ocean.

The Royal Lahaina Resort also hosts one of longest running luau shows on Maui. “The Myths of Maui” luau is a wonderful oceanfront entertainment experience.

When you plan your stay on Maui, be sure to stay at the Royal Lahaina Resort. It’s a full-service resort that offers a spectacular location, traditional Hawaiian ambiance, and great value for your money.

Ulalena at the Maui Theatre in Lahaina, is more than just another Maui nighttime show. It’s a first-class performance and a remarkable experience you won’t soon forget!

The show’s performance is an artistic tribute to the wide ranging and unique cultures and traditions that Hawaii offers. Taking you along a musical journey, explore the breadth of Hawaii’s mythical history via a magical adventure.

Ulalena is shown at the state-of-the-art Maui Theatre in Lahaina, Maui. Ulalena is a riveting production that is on par with any Broadway show on the U.S. mainland.

Ualena stands for the ancient Hawaiian word representing both the “hopeful and cleansing wind” that only occurs in Maui. According to Ancient Hawaiian creation chants, Ualena is also a form of rain that’s reddish yellow in color, when viewed at twilight. This enchanted wind carries people to other times and places through mystical memories and mythical means.

There are various shows on Maui, but if you can only see one show that celebrates Hawaiian culture, Ulalena is definitely the only show to see.

Ulalena has deservedly received many awards, including “Best Show” and “Best Attraction” by the Hawaii Visitors & convention Bureau.

One of the primary goals of Ulalena is to help promote Hawaiian culture. It appears that many of Hawaii’s many tourist attractions have moved toward commercialism and abandoned the fascinating history of the Hawaiian Islands. Ulalena continues to buck that trend.

The multi-million dollar Maui Theatre is classy as well as state-of-the-art. It’s now ten years old but still looks like it opened just yesterday. At the time, the Maui Theatre was build specifically for Ulalena and holds about 680 seats. Due to its half-moon crescent seating arrangement, every seat offers an amazing stage view, yet still creating an intimate experience.

The air-conditioned Maui Theatre is equipped with some of the best sound and lighting equipment around, using the latest in computerized technology.

Ulalena is comprised of nine various scenes that takes the audience on a magical journey through the ages of Hawaii’s deep history.

Through imagery, music, song, dance, acrobatics and even humor, the universal elements of nature come alive before your eyes. You’ll see how Hawaii’s gods and goddesses coexist amongst us all. This allows our imaginations to wander, leaving all of our troubles behind.

The show offers vivid, rich and imaginatively designed costumes along with intense lighting and stage design that when blended together, make for a wonderful entertainment experience.

The cast of Ulalena is comprised of many of the most talented stage performers and musicians on the Hawaiian islands. Their commitment, talent and enthusiasm exudes in their every move.

Ulalena begins with a lone man on a spiritual quest, heading for an unknown destination.

The show’s journey brings in many of the common elements that make up Hawaii: the ocean, a mythical forest, a village, a volcano, and many more. Each scene appears to progress the story and teach us something unique and intimate about Hawaii’s history and culture.

One of the most memorable scenes is titled “The Mythical Forest”. It’s a tantalizing experience that presents a guardian lizard spirit known as Mo’o, who lives and moves effortlessly around a waterfall. The female acrobat displays an amazing balance of beauty, strength and theatrics as she glides up and down a suspended giant loop of white silk.

The show’s musical score is an integrated component and key to the show’s success. The live band performs on an elevated stage to the right of the main stage. They produce an array of heart pounding drums and percussion rythyms that immerses the audience into the importance of music in Hawaiian culture.

Patrons have several seating and dining options available to choose from. The “Dinner Package” offers a fine dining experience at nearby Ruth’s Chris restaurant, either before or after the show. The package also includes premium VIP Seating, a complimentary beverage, and the opportunity to meet the cast and crew after the show.

Although each of the scenes are unique and incredible on their own, once the last curtain drops and the standing ovation subsides, you feel that you have just experienced something you will never forget.

Ulalena is a journey like no other. Consider yourself fortunate if you are ever able to see it and experience the true “Aloha Spirit” …. firsthand.

Ulalena – Maui Theatre
(Old Lahaina Center)
878 Front Street
Lahaina, Maui – HI
808-661-9913 or
877-688-4800

The Hotel Wailea is located in scenic, Wailea Maui. Up until this summer, the Hotel Wailea was named the Diamond Wailea Resort & Spa.

Originally opened in 1990, the Hotel Wailea began as an exclusive luxury vacation club for affluent Japanese, with approximately 1,400 members. About nine years ago, the Hotel Wailea opened its gorgeous resort to the public.

Hotel Wailea is located about 300 feet above the beautiful deep-blue waters of the Wailea coastline, offering unforgettable Pacific Ocean and west Maui views.

This private retreat specializes in offering its guests an authentic Japanese experience. The Hotel Wailea resort’s goal is to present a luxury boutique hotel at an affordable price.

Once you arrive at Hotel Wailea, you immediately notice the impressive waterfalls, which continue down the resort’s property. At the reception desk, you will be given a bottle of water and oshibori (a Japanese wet hand towel).

With awe inspiring views, Hotel Wailea offers a tropical experience beyond words, along with a multitude of luxury amenities. Watch soothing sunsets from your private lanai or just enjoy the quiet resort property in your spacious suite.

What separates Hotel Wailea apart from other Wailea area resorts is the peacefulness and tranquil atmosphere. There are 72 total suites in 18 buildings (four units each), nestled amongst a lush, tropical setting.

The spacious, air-conditioned suites feature full or partial ocean and garden views, a large lanai, kitchenette with mini-refrigerator, microwave and coffeemaker, 32-inch flat-screen TVs with cable, and an MP3 stereo.

Due to the original Japanese influence, guests will notice the large bathroom includes a deep-soak tub and adjacent shower.

Although Hotel Wailea is not located on the beach, ocean-view rooms offer sweeping Pacific Ocean views. The nearby islands of Kaho’olawe and Molokini are incredible, especially as the sun sets on another picture perfect Maui day.

The Hotel Wailea resort grounds include about 7 acres of neatly landscaped gardens, featuring soothing waterfalls and tropical pools filled with colorful Koi fish. The grounds are very quiet and serene. Not the standard hustle you experience at other more dense nearby resorts.

Hotel guests can try the soothing hydro therapy spa facilities, including a large whirlpool, dry sauna, and pressure body shower. Optional spa treatments include massages and facials are also available. Views from the spa are absolutely amazing. Customers will enjoy panoramic open-air ocean views.

Since Hotel Wailea is not located on the beach, they offer a free shuttle service to and from either the Grand Wailea Resort, or the Shops at Wailea. You can enjoy complimentary beach access at the Grand Wailea, including resort and private beach cabana access with an attendant and a variety of refreshments.

If you’re looking for the best of fine dining in Wailea, you don’t have to go far. Hotel Wailea is proud to offer the area’s premier restaurant – Capische. Capische was voted by Zagat and rated as the number one Italian restaurant on all of Maui. It is truly a five-star dining experience.

If you want to avoid the crowds of other nearby resorts, enjoy sensational views and an unforgettable stay at Hotel Wailea. You won’t be disappointed.

Kapalua Bay beach has been routinely listed in the top ten beaches in the world.

The sand and water are great, and what’s below the water is also fantastic! Snorkeling is terrific or you can enjoy a picnic lunch on the beach. The coral and marine fish were beautiful.

The beach cove that fronts the Kapalua Bay hotel is the stuff of dreams: a golden crescent bordered by two palm-studded points. The sandy bottom slopes gently to deep water at the bay mouth; the water is so clear that you can see where the gold sands turn to green and then deep blue.

Protected from strong winds and currents by the lava-rock promontories, Kapalua’s calm waters are great for snorkelers and swimmers of all ages and abilities, and the bay is big enough to paddle a kayak around without getting into the more challenging channel that separates Maui from Molokai.

Waves come in just right for riding. Fish hang out by the rocks, making it great for snorkeling.

For an experience you will never forget, take the Pali Highway to this spectacular lookout, one of the windiest spots on Oahu. From the lookout point high among the eerie spires of the Koolau Mountains, you can see an unbelievable panoramic view of Windward Oahu.

Nuʻuanu Pali is a section of the windward cliff (pali in Hawaiian) of the Koʻolau mountain located at the head of Nuʻuanu Valley on the island of Oʻahu. Today, it offers one of the best panoramic views of the windward (northeast) coast of Oʻahu. A main highway (Hawaii State Highway 61) connecting Kailua/Kāneʻohe with downtown Honolulu runs through tunnels bored into the cliffside.

The Nuʻuanu Pali State Wayside is a lookout above the tunnels where visitors are treated to a panoramic view of the Oahu’s windward side with sweeping views of Kāneʻohe, Kāneʻohe Bay, and Kailua. It is also well-known for strong Trade winds that blow through the pass, forming a sort of natural wind tunnel. Kaneohe Bay is the largest sheltered body of water in the main Hawaiian Islands.

The Nuʻuanu Pali was the site of one of the bloodiest battles in Hawaiian history, in which Kamehameha I conquered the island of Oʻahu, bringing it under his rule. In 1795 Kamehameha I sailed from his home island of Hawaiʻi with an army of 10,000 soldiers.

After conquering the islands of Maui and Molokai, he moved on to Oahu. The pivotal battle for the island occurred in Nʻuanu Valley, where the defenders of Oʻahu, led by Kalanikupule, were driven back up into the valley where they were trapped above the cliff. Thousands of Kalanikupule’s soldiers were driven off the edge of the cliff to their deaths 1,000 feet below.

In 1898 a carriage road was built over the Nuʻuanu Pali to connect Windward Oʻahu with Honolulu. This road was later replaced by the Pali Highway and the Nuʻuanu Pali Tunnels in 1959.

Hawaiian folklore holds that one should never carry pork over Nuʻuanu Pali, especially at night. In olden days, motorists reported that their cars mysteriously stopped and would not start until the pork was removed from the car. Jimi Hendrix wrote a song with the title Pali Gap, a name he made up but presumably meant to refer to the Nuʻuanu Pali, which includes both a gap and a cliff (Pali).

The amazing Wailua Falls is located at the south end of the Wailua River, near Lihue on Kauai.

The falls cascades down as two separate streams to a location at least 80 feet below. Luckily for visitors, Wailua Falls is near the road lookout for all to enjoy.

Back in the 1970′s, TV fans of the popular ABC show “Fantasy Island” will recognize Wailua Falls during the hit show’s opening scene. “Fantasy Island” made these falls popular.

The water flow of Wailua Falls can vary widely depending on local rainfall and river flow. The top of the falls is flat but you can see channels have been cut into the rock, from centuries of flowing water.

You can enjoy fantastic views during the early morning hours, as the sun’s rays shine directly on the impressive falls.

Legend states that back in ancient times, local warriors would jump from the top of Wailua Falls to prove their bravery. Please don’t try this because any leap or fall could likely be fatal.

To get there, take Highway 56 north out of Lihu’e to Ma’alo Road, Highway 583, on the right. The waterfall is found at the end of the road, and it’s only 5 minutes from the city of Lihu’e.

The Fairmont Kea Lani Hotel on Maui recently opened Ko restaurant, an eatery that offers updated versions of Hawaiian plantation food, such as the savory Filipino filled-pastry lumpia, and fresh, local fish such as sweet-fleshed ono.

Ko Restaurant emphasizes local ingredients with dishes like Maui Cattle Company “Paniolo” Rib Eye and Ahi on the Rock.

Food preparations are intended to represent the intermingled culinary traditions of local food, such as the incredible presentation of Ahi “On the Rock” sashimi spiced with orange ginger miso sauce served next to a hot rock on which you sear your own–and addictive lobster tempura served with a dipping sauce trio of spicy-sesame, pineapple sweet chili garlic, and grapefruit soy.

But you’ll also find Chinese, Filipino, Portuguese, Korean, and Japanese influences on the menu, including lumpia spring rolls–a classic Filipino dish that has been elevated in flavor and fashion (see below) and a big, juicy, locally raised steak.

Kō’s roots run deep beyond the food. Chef de Cuisine and Maui Culinary Academy graduate, Jake Belmonte’s father was a plantation worker in the early 1930s and his menu is a reflection of his own family traditions, customs, and experiences with the island’s delicious diversity.

And in true aloha style he enhanced his concept by incorporating the aid and influence of his ethnically diverse and very local staff.

Celebrity chef Nobu Matsuhisa took a short break in the middle of an interview yesterday to call saxophonist Kenny G, who is part owner of Nobu Malibu. “I’m in Hawaii right now,” Matsuhisa said before inviting Kenny G to join him for the upcoming sake ceremony. “I’m going to Mexico Tuesday morning. Call me on my cell.”

Japanese tourists account for about half of the 297-room Waikiki Parc Hotel guests, while the other half primarily hail from the mainland. But flat Japanese visitor numbers will have little influence on marketing strategy.

“We didn’t really change much of our game plan,” said managing partner Richard Notar. They’ll cater to luxury travelers in the Waikiki Beachwalk area, but they believe residents will dictate permutations.

All involved believe Nobu Waikiki will stimulate fresh ideas in Hawaii’s high-end restaurant circle. “We want to add to your already progressive culinary scene,” said Notar. It seems that Matsuhisa is already integrated into the group of top chefs here, hooking up for golf games with Alan Wong and Roy Yamaguchi when he’s in town.