The Journey Up Mount Haleakala
Have you ever wondered what it would be like to travel through five different climate zones within an hour? Probably not, but you have to admit it sounds pretty cool. Take a trip from sea level to the 10,000 foot summit of Mount Haleakala (House of the Sun) for an unforgettable journey through ever-changing environments. A friend described the trip by stating, “Once you reach the top, you’ll see God,” but I think I saw him the whole... Read More
Getting to Know Hawaii
I would like to shed a light on some misconceptions people have about Hawaii. If it’s your first time traveling to the islands, you may have preconceived notions — like the idea of bridges connecting the islands or the belief that the Big Island is the most populated. When most people imagine a tropical island, they tend to picture a Castaway-sized island with Tom Hanks roaming around picking up FedEx boxes. The Hawaiian islands are probably... Read More
Big Island: 5 Must-Know Things About Waimea
These are the horses in your neighborhood. Waimea, Big Island If you’ve ever driven from Kona to Hilo or Hilo to Kona, you’ve most likely passed through Waimea. It’s a small picturesque town perched 2,500+ ft. up among the alpine trees and grasslands between Mauna Kea and the Kohala Mountains. Just ask anyone who’s spent some time here and they’ll tell you Waimea is one of the most beautiful and eclectic places in all... Read More
Surfing Tips for Beginners
Millions of people can’t be wrong. Surfing is a blast! It’s a magical feeling to glide across the surface of the ocean. It’s fun, relaxing and healthy. The benefits far outweigh any potential risks. Don’t worry, there’s a much higher chance of winning the lottery than being eaten by a shark. With all that surfing has going for it, it’s no wonder so many people are flocking to the waves for the first time. If you’re... Read More
The Road To Hana
Or as I like to call it, The Highway To Hell. Hana is located on the far east side of Maui. Unless you want to take your chances on the back road, there’s really only one way in and one way out of this place. The highway winds in and out of the valley’s along the cliffs of Maui. With over 600 curves and 54 bridges, it has to be one of the most winding roads on the planet. It’s really a marvel of engineering that somebody actually... Read More
Can I afford living in Hawaii?
Yes. Despite popular belief, Hawaii is not inaccessible or unaffordable. There’s no doubt you will have to make sacrifices, but in my opinion, the trade-offs are well worth it. The biggest sacrifice will be housing costs. For example, monthly rent for a 4 bedroom house in Tennessee runs around $1200. The same amount will rent a studio or 1 bedroom apartment in Waikiki. Maybe something a little bigger outside of town. However, there are a few... Read More
Hanauma Bay
Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve is located on the Southeast side of Oahu. The bay is home to some of the most spectacular snorkeling and diving in the islands. Hanauma is closed on Tuesdays and under hazardous conditions such as severe weather or Box Jellyfish. The jellies typically arrive on the south and west shores of the islands every month 8 to 12 days after the full moon. When the parking lot is full, visitors are turned away. So, be sure to call... Read More
