Tag Archives: Maui

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Visiting Hawaii’s Heritage Sites

There are many places in Hawaii that are deeply treasured for their cultural, natural or historical significance. From rugged state parks to historic landmarks, here are some of the heritage sites that the Hawaiian islands have to offer.

The Island of Hawaii
Big Island
Big Island is home to several fascinating heritage sites, with the most famous of them all being the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. This park is home to two of the most active volcanoes in the world, Maunaloa and Kilauea, providing volcanic landscapes unlike anywhere else in the world. Other state parks that are definitely worth visiting on Big Island include Kealakekua Bay State Historical Park, which is where Captain James Cook first set foot on the island, the ‘Akaka Falls State Park, and the Lapakahi State Historical Park, which is where you will be able to learn more about traditional Hawaiian lifestyles. For those seeking even more history, the Hulihee Palace used to be a vacation home for Hawaiian royalty, and can be found in the historic Kailua Village.

Oahu
Just like Big Island, there are many different heritage sites to be found in Oahu. The Bishop Museum is usually the first point of call for many visitors, as this will teach you so much about the Pacific region, providing a great starting point from which you can learn more about the islands’ history and culture. The Iolani Palace State Monument can also be found in Oahu, and is the only official royal state residence in the entire US. Other royalty-related sites include the Queen Emma Summer Palace and Washington Place, both of which are open for tours.

Kauai
There are just two main heritage sites to be found in Kauai, but one of these is considered by many to truly be a geological wonder. Dubbed “the Grand Canyon of the Pacific”, the Waimea Canyon State Park stretches out for over 14 miles, offering multiple scenic viewpoints, as well as a short nature trail. Also on Kauai is the Kilauea Lighthouse, which, in addition to being a National Wildlife Reserve, also offers incredible views of the island.

Manele Bay
Lanai
While Lanai may only have one heritage site, the Kaunolu Village, this archaeological site contains the largest surviving ruins of a prehistoric Hawaiian village, making it well worth exploring. From petroglyphs to Kahekili’s Leap, a 60 foot cliff from which warriors would dive to demonstrate their bravery, there is plenty of history to soak up here.

Maui
One of Maui’s heritage highlights includes the Haleakala National Park, which spans over 30,000 acres. This is a national park with one of the highest concentrations of endangered species, making it a must-visit for those who want to experience native Hawaiian wildlife. It is also home to the highest peak in Maui, meaning that there are many incredible views to be seen from here.

Each of the Hawaiian islands have at least one heritage site to visit, with some, such as Big Island and Oahu, being home to several. Whether you are seeking history, culture or natural beauty, these heritage sites promise to provide all of that plus so much more.

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Best Places to Whale Watch

From November to May, the waters of Hawaii are abundant with humpback whales, making the islands a whale-watchers paradise. While these humpbacks can be seen from all of the Hawaiian islands, these are some of the best places to whale watch if you want a truly unforgettable sighting.

Whale in Kauai
Kauai
One of the best spots on Kauai for whale watching is the Kilauea Lighthouse on the north side of the island, because this area has actually been designated a humpback whale marine sanctuary by the Federal government. Shipwreck Beach is also an idyllic spot where you are likely to be able to see multiple whales from shore, whilst being surrounded by soft white sand and incredible scenery.

Oahu
The south-eastern part of Oahu is the best area on the island for whale watching, from Hanauma Bay to the overlooks near Diamond Head. Makapuu Point has also always been a popular spot, with the winding Makapuu Point Trail to take you there. In addition to the whales, you will be able to have unobstructed views out across the island’s nearby shore islets, which are sanctuaries for many species of native seabirds.

Maui whale sighting

Maui
Maui is considered to be one of the best of the Hawaiian islands for whale watching, and they can be seen from just about anywhere that provides a view of the water. However, if you want to watch them breach and play in ways that you have never seen before, then you need to head to the stretch of Highway 30 that runs between Ma’alaea and Lahaina. As breathtaking a viewing spot as this may be, this is also the windiest stretch of the road, making for quite dangerous driving during the winter months, which is when whale watching season is at its peak, so be sure to pull over at a safe spot in order to really be able to concentrate on the whales.

Whale Watching Tours
While it is relatively easy to watch the whales from shore, there is nothing quite like being able to view them out in the water. There are several whale watching tours available that you can choose from for this, with companies ranging from Hawaii Nautical to Star of Honolulu. These excursions are usually well worth your time, as you will also be able to see everything from Hawaiian Spinner dolphins to rare turtles.

Whale watching is a highly anticipated annual phenomenon in Hawaii, and has been an important part of local culture since the islands’ very early days. If you are viewing whales from the shore, or even from a boat, it can often be tempting to edge nearer, to enjoy a closer view, but keep in mind that the laws state that you cannot get closer than 100 feet to whales in the water, so as not to disturb them, so be sure to keep a safe distance. However, if the whales decide to come nearer to you, which, in local terms, is described as “being mugged”, then be sure to enjoy this rare experience.

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Visit Hawaii’s Waterfalls

The islands of Hawaii are home to some of the most spectacular waterfalls in the world, and while it may seem easy to find one around just about every corner, there is no doubting that some are much more magnificent than others. From waterfalls that can only be reached via a challenging hike, to others that feature a serene and picturesque swimming hole, these are the Hawaiian waterfalls that you should definitely not miss out on.

Waimoku Falls Maui

Waimoku Falls, Maui
Situated on Maui, the Waimoku Falls can be found at the end of what is considered to be the best hike in Hawaii, otherwise known as the Pipiwai Trail. Since it lies in the Kipahulu District National Park, the surrounding areas are protected, meaning that this 400-foot waterfall flows throughout the year, and visitors are even able to enjoy a close-up view of its base. This stretch of the coastline is referred to as the Seven Sacred Pools, because further downstream there are many more waterfalls and swimming holes to be found, making this a fantastic location for those who want to explore a diverse range of falls.

Akaka Falls, Big Island

Akaka Falls, Big Island
The Akaka Falls is probably the most well-known waterfall on Big Island, and since it receives between 130 to 200 inches of rainfall each year, its constant gushing never disappoints. Measuring just over 440 feet, the Akaka Falls may look just like those hard-to-reach waterfalls that can be found in deep valleys, but this one is easily accessible, giving visitors the opportunity to view a type of waterfall that they may not have otherwise been lucky enough to see.

Hanakapi'ai Falls in Kauai

Hanakapi’ai Falls, Kauai
The area of coastline that houses the Hanakapi’ai Falls is considered to be one of the most picturesque on all of the Hawaiian islands, making it well worth a visit. In order to reach this towering waterfall, a day hike is needed, and although the actual hike may be quite slippery and challenging at times, it runs through lush jungles and areas of immense natural beauty, with the dramatic waterfall at the end making the hike most definitely worthwhile.

Rainbow Falls, Big Island

Rainbow Falls, Big Island
Cascading down 80 feet, the Rainbow Falls are set in a cove that is surrounded by lush, tropical jungle, providing the perfect photo opportunity, as well as a sense of excitement for history buffs, as the cove is said to be where King Kamehameha buried his father’s body. Since the Rainbow Falls tumble down onto Wailuku River, which is the longest river in the state, this is another waterfall that flows year-round, and, being so accessible, should most definitely make it onto your waterfall to-do list.

Hawaii’s natural beauty has earned the islands a reputation all over the world, with visitors traveling from just about every continent to check out some of the world-famous waterfalls that can be found here. From the convenience of the Rainbow Falls on Big Island to the jaw-dropping beauty of the Hanakapi’ai Falls, no matter how many of Hawaii’s waterfalls you are able to explore, their captivating pull will keep you wanting to return for more.

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Hawaii’s Most Indulgent Spas – OROGOLD Reviews

Woman enjoying a spa session

When in a setting as tropically idyllic as Hawaii, there is nothing better than pampering yourself with a couple of treatments at a luxurious island spa. From a spa without walls to a completely customizable pampering experience, OROGOLD brings you the most indulgent spas in Hawaii.

Pure Kauai, North Shore, Kauai
For a truly indulgent, completely customizable spa experience, head to Pure Kauai, on the north shore of Kauai. With private chefs to cook you healthy meals, yoga instructors, personal trainers, facialists and some of Hawaii’s best massage therapists, you can’t help but feel as though you are in paradise. In addition to the immense relaxation that you will feel at the spa, there is also a large outdoor aspect to Pure Kauai, and OROGOLD absolutely loves the other activities on offer, including surf lessons, all day hikes, canoeing, horseback riding and much more.

The Spa Without Walls, Kohala Coast, Big Island
This al fresco spa without walls has both oceanfront and waterfall treatment huts, where they offer a range of rejuvenating treatments. From the Hawaiian lomilomi massage and foot wrap to the Kahinu body treatment, each session is intensified by the sweet scent of the wild orchids and gardenias all around, as well as by the sound of crashing waves, giving you the ultimate in blissful experiences. There is also a steam room, a dry sauna, and a small boutique for you to purchase any of the signature spa products that you are likely to have fallen in love with.

Spa Grande, Wailea, Maui
Being located in the Grand Wailea Resort Hotel and Spa, an $800 million resort that boasts 780 rooms and 9 swimming pools, means that, even before entering the spa, you can almost guess just how indulgent Spa Grande is going to be. Measuring 50,000 square feet, and with 40 different treatment rooms, Spa Grande offers a variety of experiences, but their speciality is hydrotherapy. In addition to the huge jacuzzi, steam room and sauna, you will also find Japanese furo baths, Swiss showers, waterfall massages, and ‘speciality’ baths, created with local botanicals and mineral salts.

Mauna Lani, Kohala Coast, Big Island
Located amongst the vast lava fields of the Kohala Coast, this spa belongs to the Mauna Lani Bay Hotel and Bungalows, and is one of the most spiritual spas that OROGOLD has found in Hawaii. The walls of the showers, as well as the edges of the pathways, are formed from real lava, and the grounds are filled with beautifully fragrant medicinal herbs and plants. All of the therapists seem to exude a calming, healing energy, many of whom are Native Hawaiian and have been performing authentic massages for years. To indulge even further, take a look at staying in one of the five bungalows, each with their own butler service, as not only can you relax in one of the most exclusive bungalows in Hawaii, but therapists will also come to your bungalow to give you private treatments.

Hawaii is known for its ancient healing powers, and this is reflected in the many traditional spa treatments that you will find on each of the islands. Whether your back is filled with painful knots, or you simply want to relax in a Japanese bath, you can be sure that you will leave Hawaii feeling more rested than ever.