#include kahanamoku beach

[beachguide]

Kahanamoku Beach, Honolulu, Hawaii | Camping, Fishing, and Surfing Paradise

Explore Duke Kahanamoku Beach and Duke Paoa Kahanamoku Lagoon in Honolulu, Hawaii. Enjoy camping, fishing, hiking, snorkeling, and surfing. Find hotels nearby, view stunning photos, check operating hours, and get weather updates. Please note: Not dog-friendly.

[theboardroomsurfshow]

"Ian Cairns’ Legendary Surfing Career: Smirnoff Pro Victory, Duke Kahanamoku Triumph, and Sunset Beach Fame"

Surfing Tales: Ian Cairns’ Surfing Journey

### Introduction:

Join us on a wave of nostalgia as we delve into the legendary Ian Cairns’ impact on surfing history.

### Challenges of Aging in Surfing

Ian Cairns shares insights into managing injuries and the impact of aging on surfing agility, reflecting on physical limitations and emotional well-being.

### Stand-Up Paddle Surfing Benefits

Discover how stand-up paddle surfing provides a robust workout for Ian Cairns, emphasizing the joy and satisfaction derived from years spent in the sport.

### Joy in Coaching and Surfing

Find out how Ian Cairns finds fulfillment in coaching and passing on his surfing wisdom, shaping the next wave of surf enthusiasts.

### Commitment and Competition Mindset

Explore the importance of taking risks and maintaining a competitive mindset in surfing through gripping stories and near-death experiences.

### Integrating Wealth Motivation in Surfing

Delve into the impact of wealth on surfers' drive for success and how personal experiences shape attitudes toward competitive surfing.

### Surfer Positioning and Creativity

Uncover the strategic positioning tactics of surfers like Paco and the challenge of maximizing creativity within competitive time constraints.

### Surfboard Innovations and Shaping Craftsmanship

Embark on a journey through Ian Cairns' meticulous surfboard shaping techniques, innovations, and commitment to perfection.

### Celebrating Camaraderie and Rivalries

Celebrate shared histories and past rivalries in the surfing community, cherishing competitive moments and camaraderie with fellow surfers.

### Business Adaptation and Lifestyle Changes

Witness Ian Cairns' journey from shaping surfboards to navigating success in surfing, including significant earnings and lifestyle transformations.

### Challenges and Decentralization in Professional Surfing

Explore the hurdles faced by professional surfing and the potential paradigm shift towards decentralized organizational structures.

### Tour Manager Dynamics and Surfing Memories

Reflect on the role of tour managers in professional surfing, coupled with memorable surfing encounters and valuable contributions to the sport.

### Conclusion:

Ian Cairns' legacy transcends surfing, portraying resilience, innovation, and a love for the ocean. Let's ride the waves of his captivating journey!

[robertshawaiii]

Embrace the Spirit of Aloha: The Best Luaus in Oahu

Polynesian Cultural Center Luau:

Situated on Oahu's scenic North Shore, the Polynesian Cultural Center offers a mesmerizing luau experience unlike any other. Guests are welcomed with warm island hospitality and ushered into a world of wonder, where they can explore authentic Polynesian villages representing Samoa, Fiji, Tonga, Tahiti, and more. The evening culminates in the Ali'i Luau, where visitors feast on a sumptuous buffet of Hawaiian delicacies while being serenaded by live music and mesmerizing hula performances.

Paradise Cove Luau:

Located on the southwestern shore of best oahu luau, Paradise Cove Luau beckons guests with its idyllic setting and dynamic cultural showcase. As the sun dips below the horizon, visitors gather on the shores of Ko Olina Beach to partake in an array of traditional activities, from lei making and coconut husking to ukulele lessons and hula dancing. The highlight of the evening is the luau feast, featuring a delectable spread of island fare including kalua pig, lomi lomi salmon, and poi, accompanied by spellbinding performances that pay homage to Hawaii's rich heritage.

Diamond Head Luau:

Set against the backdrop of the iconic Diamond Head Crater, this luau offers a captivating blend of breathtaking views and immersive entertainment. Guests are treated to a journey through Polynesia with performances showcasing the diverse cultures of Hawaii, Tahiti, New Zealand, and Samoa. Indulge in a feast fit for royalty as you savor traditional Hawaiian dishes infused with modern flair, all while being enchanted by the rhythmic beats of live music and exhilarating fire knife dances.

Chief's Luau:

Tucked away in a tranquil corner of best oahu tour scenic east coast, Chief's Luau invites guests to experience the warmth and hospitality of Hawaiian culture firsthand. Led by Chief Sielu, a world-renowned comedian and fire-knife dancer, this intimate gathering promises an evening of laughter, awe, and genuine aloha spirit. Delight your taste buds with a buffet featuring island favorites like kalua pork and haupia, then sit back and be dazzled by captivating performances that showcase the beauty and grace of Polynesian dance and music.

Waikiki Starlight Luau:

For those seeking an unforgettable luau experience in the heart of Waikiki, look no further than the Waikiki Starlight Luau at the Hilton Hawaiian Village. Against a backdrop of swaying palms and the shimmering waters of Duke Kahanamoku Lagoon, guests are treated to an evening of entertainment that celebrates the vibrant cultures of Polynesia. From traditional hula to thrilling fire knife dances, the performances captivate audiences of all ages, while a lavish buffet featuring island-inspired cuisine ensures that every palate is satisfied.

[seeyeps]

World Surf League, Wsl, 2023, Schedule, Live Stream, Start Date, Team And More

The World Surf League (WSL) is set to kick off its 2023 season in May of that year. The schedule includes men's and women's surfing events, both held in some of the world’s best surf locations. Live streaming will be available for all competitions, with an estimated start date of May 15th.

Team entries consist of a combination of professional athletes and wildcard competitors selected by WSL officials. Each event will feature multiple rounds with heats varying based on the spot location and conditions. All tour members are eligible to earn points towards the championship title at each tour stop throughout the season while also competing against global talent from around the world as part of their team entries.

Season highlights include contests such as The Hawaiian Pro, Bells Beach Pro, Margaret River Pro, J-Bay Open, Tahiti Pro Teahupo’o and more! WSL has confirmed details about how fans can watch live via their official website or through various other digital platforms such as YouTube TV or FuboTV among others.

The World Surf League (WSL) is gearing up for an exciting 2023 season! With their live stream, fans from around the world can enjoy all of the action as it happens. The schedule will be released soon and a start date has been set for May 1st.

Teams have already begun to form with some of the biggest names in surfing competing for glory. This upcoming season promises to be one of the most thrilling yet and we can’t wait to see who comes out on top!

How Can I Watch World Surf League Live?

If you are looking to watch World Surf League (WSL) events live, your best bet is to purchase a subscription on the WSL website. This will give you access to all of the major WSL events as they are broadcasted live and in HD. Additionally, some cable providers, such as Comcast Xfinity, offer streaming packages that include access to certain WSL broadcasts.

Finally, if you have an AppleTV or Roku device with a compatible app installed (such as WatchESPN), then you can stream some of the WSL's events on those devices for free.

Is World Surf League on Tv?

Yes, the World Surf League (WSL) is broadcast on television in numerous countries around the world. The WSL has agreements with broadcasters that span from Europe to Latin America and Asia Pacific. In the United States, Fox Sports holds exclusive rights to all of their events through 2021.

In Australia, Channel Nine broadcasts live coverage of major surfing competitions as well as replays throughout the year. Additionally, ESPN networks carry international events such as The Boost Mobile Pro Gold Coast and Rip Curl Pro Bells Beach in multiple languages across many markets worldwide.

Where Can I Watch World Surf League Finals?

The World Surf League finals can be watched on the WSL's official website, where viewers can access live streams of all major competitions and events. Additionally, fans can watch select broadcasts on channels such as ABC, ESPN2 and Fox Sports 2. Finally, for those who are unable to access these platforms there are several other streaming services available including YouTube TV, Sling TV and FuboTV which offer coverage of the WSL finals.

When Did the World Surf League Start?

The World Surf League (WSL) was founded in 1976 as the International Professional Surfers (IPS). Founded by Fred Hemmings and Randy Rarick, IPS sought to create a professional surfing organization that would showcase the talents of top surfers around the world. The tour consisted of two events: the Hawaiian Pro at Haleiwa and the Duke Kahanamoku Invitational at Sunset Beach.

In 1982, after six years under its original name, IPS changed its name to WSL and began expanding its reach beyond Hawaii with contests in California, Australia, New Zealand, South Africa, France and Japan. Today it is considered one of the premier organizations for competitive surfing worldwide with championship tours across five continents.

World Surf League 2023

Wsl Live Stream Free

If you're a fan of surfing, then you'll be happy to know that the World Surf League (WSL) is now offering a free live stream of their professional surfing competitions. You can catch all the action from the comfort of your own home with no subscription or cost required. This is an amazing way to stay up-to-date on your favorite surfers and events without having to leave your house!

Wsl Pipeline 2023

The WSL Pipeline 2023 is an upcoming professional surfing event that will take place in Oahu, Hawaii on February 6–13, 2023. The event will feature some of the world’s best surfers competing for a $1 million prize pool and an opportunity to become the World Surf League champion. With world-class waves, stunning beaches and a vibrant local culture, this is sure to be one of the most exciting events in pro surfing history.

Wsl Schedule

The WSL schedule for 2021 is now available and features over 200 events across the globe. The World Surf League (WSL) has implemented a variety of changes to their annual calendar, including an extended season from October to December, additional regional events in Europe and Asia-Pacific regions, as well as more innovative formats and new locations. With so many exciting changes this year, it's sure to be an action-packed series of competitions that should excite both fans and professional surfers alike!

Wsl Rankings

The World Surf League (WSL) rankings are determined by the total points earned in a given season. Points are awarded based on performances at each of the WSL-sanctioned events throughout the year, with higher points being awarded to athletes who place highest in those events. The current standings can be viewed online and updated regularly as new results come in.

Ultimately, the top 34 male and 18 female surfers will make up the championship tour for that year which determines who is crowned world champion at the end of an eventful season!

Billabong Pipeline Masters 2023

The Billabong Pipeline Masters is one of the world's premier surfing competitions and will take place in Oahu, Hawaii in December 2023. The event has been running since 1971 and attracts some of the best surfers from around the world to compete for the title of Pipe Master. This prestigious event is renowned for its high-performance waves, challenging conditions, and thrilling competition.

Spectators can expect an incredible display of skill as these top athletes battle it out on the wave face for a share of the $500,000 prize purse.

Wsl Youtube

WSL YouTube is a popular and official channel for the World Surf League (WSL), which broadcasts live footage of professional surfing events. It also provides highlights, interviews, analysis and behind-the-scenes content from the world’s best surfers. The WSL YouTube channel has hundreds of thousands of followers who tune in daily to catch up on all the latest updates from the top pro surfers around the globe.

Surfline

Surfline is an online resource for surfers of all levels, featuring up-to-date surf reports, forecasts and analysis from around the world. The site also provides news and reviews on the best spots to hit on any given day. With its powerful tools, Surfline helps you plan your surfing adventures with confidence so you can get out there and catch some waves!

Wsl Results

The World Surf League (WSL) is the governing body of professional surfing around the world, and its results are highly anticipated by fans of the sport. The WSL conducts a series of tournaments throughout the year that feature some of the best surfers in the world competing for points on their way to becoming a World Champion. After each event, standings are updated with competitors’ total points earned from all events they have participated in during that season.

As such, it's important to follow along with WSL events and results to stay up-to-date on who's leading in each tour rankings.

Conclusion

Overall, there is a lot to look forward to with the World Surf League in 2023. With its exciting schedule of events and live streaming options, fans will be able to watch their favorite surfers compete on a global stage. Additionally, the new teams and start date for 2023 make it an even more anticipated event.

The WSL promises to deliver an adrenaline-filled experience that viewers won't soon forget.

[findhomeaway]

Discover Tropical Paradise: Newly Renovated Waikiki Grand Hotel Unit with Stunning Views and World-Class Amenities

Looking for the perfect tropical getaway? Look no further than Condo #176528, available to book directly from the owner at FindHomeAway.com! This charming unit is conveniently located just steps away from all of the world-class amenities Honolulu has to offer, including Waikiki Beach, Kapiolani Park, the Honolulu Zoo, and countless restaurants and shops.

Upon entering the unit, you'll be greeted by stunning views of Diamond Head and the Pacific Ocean. The cozy space features a Queen bed, pull out couch, and kitchenette, making it the perfect place to unwind after a day of exploring. Relax and enjoy a movie, or cook a delicious meal in the kitchenette.

In addition to the inviting unit, the Waikiki Grand Hotel offers a variety of amenities to enhance your stay. Head up to the 10th floor sundeck for a refreshing swim in the pool, then grab a bite to eat at the on-site restaurant. Later, dance the night away at the hotel's nightclub or plan your activities with the help of the activities desk.

While staying at the Waikiki Grand Hotel, you'll be located in the heart of Waikiki, Oahu's most iconic tourist destination. This diverse and vibrant residential neighborhood has grown from a small community of surfers and artists in the 1960s to an urban neighborhood of high rises after a $100 million initiative in the 1970s. Along with the stunning beaches, such as Waikiki Beach, Kuhio Beach, Grays Beach, Fort DeRussy Beach, and Kahanamoku Beach, Waikiki also includes local attractions like Kapiolani Park, Kahanamoku Lagoon, Kuhio Beach Park, and Ala Wai Harbor.

Getting around Waikiki is a breeze, with many bus routes going through the area and offering access to different parts of the island. Alternatively, ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are generally available at most times of the day, making it easy to get around and explore.

Don't miss the opportunity to experience the best of Waikiki! Book your stay at the Waikiki Grand Hotel and enjoy a tropical paradise filled with world-class amenities, stunning views, and endless activities. With so much to see and do in Waikiki, you'll want to come back again and again!

[nasa]

Dr. Beach’s Top 10 Beaches of 2021

For more than 30 years, Dr. Beach, aka Dr. Stephen Leatherman, has created an annual Top 10 Beach list. A professor and coastal geomorphologist at Florida International University, Dr. Beach factors in 50 different criteria including water color, sand softness, wave size, water temperature and more.

As we get ready to launch Landsat 9 this fall, we’re taking a tour of Dr. Beach’s Top 10 US beaches of 2021 as seen by Landsat 8.

10. Coast Guard Beach, Cape Cod, Massachusetts

Coast Guard Beach is located just north of the remote Nauset Inlet on Outer Cape Cod, Massachusetts. Except for the picturesque old white Coast Guard station that still sits atop the glacial bluffs, there is no development here; the best way to reach this beach is by bicycle from the Salt Pond Visitor’s Center or shuttle bus.

First mapped by Champlain in 1605, the shifting sands of this inlet are clearly visible in the Landsat image. This location is also at the point where the glacial sea cliffs transcend into a barrier beach (e.g., sand spit) that provides protection for the lagoon and development of lush salt marshes.

“In my early days as a Professor at Boston University and later at the University of Massachusetts at Amherst, I spent many summer and some winter-time days conducting scientific studies along this barrier beach.” – Dr. Beach

Landsat 8 collected this image of Coast Guard Beach on May 1, 2021.

9. Beachwalker Park, Kiawah Island, South Carolina

Beachwalker Park is a public beach located on the southern part of Kiawah Island, South Carolina. This barrier island in the Charleston area is 10-miles long and features a fine grained, hard-packed beach that can be traversed easily by bicycle.

This Landsat image shows a huge accumulation of sand as a series of shoals on the south end of the island, which can be reached from Beachwalker Park. These sandy shoals will eventually coalesce, becoming an extension of the sand spit that is the south end of Kiawah Island.

“In the early 2000s, I served as the beach consultant to the Town of Kiawah Island because their world-famous golf course on the north end was being threatened by severe erosion. It was necessary to artificially bypass some sand on the north end of the island so that the normal flow of sand along the island was reinstated, saving the outermost link of this PGA golf course.” – Dr. Beach

Landsat 8 collected this image of Beachwalker Park on April 9, 2021.

8. Coronado Beach, San Diego, California

Coronado Beach in San Diego is the toast of Southern California with some of the warmest and safest water on the Pacific coast. This 100-meter-wide beach is an oasis of subtropical vegetation, unique Mediterranean climate, and fine sparkling sand.

The harbor serves as a major port for the Navy’s Pacific fleet, the home port for several aircraft carriers. The docks and the crossing airplane runways for the Naval base are visible in this Landsat image.

“I really enjoy visiting this beautiful beach as well as having lunch and drinks, taking advantage of the hotel’s beachside service.” – Dr. Beach

Landsat 8 collected this image of Coronado Beach on April 23, 2020.

7. Caladesi Island State Park, Dunedin Clearwater, Florida

Caladesi Island State Park is located in the small town of Dunedin on the Southwest Florida coast. The stark white undeveloped beach is composed of crystalline quartz sand which is soft and cushy at the water’s edge, inviting one to take a dip in the sparkling clear waters.

While island is still in the Park’s name, Caladesi is no longer a true island as shown on the Landsat image--it is now connected to Clearwater Beach.

“Caladesi is located in the Tampa area, but it seems like a world away on this getaway island.” – Dr. Beach

Landsat 8 collected this image of Caladesi Island State Park on April 9, 2021.

6. Duke Kahanamoku Beach, Oahu, Hawaii

Duke Kahanamoku Beach is named for the famous native Hawaiian who was a big-board surfer and introduced surfing as a sport to mainland Americans and indeed the world.

One of the prominent features on this Landsat image is Diamondhead with its circular shape near the coast. This large cone of an extinct volcano provides the iconic backdrop for photos of Waikiki Beach.

“This is my favorite spot at the world-famous Waikiki Beach where you can both play in the surf and swim in the calm lagoonal waters.” – Dr. Beach

Landsat 8 collected this image of Duke Kahanamoku Beach on May 17, 2020.

5. Lighthouse Beach, Buxton, Outer Banks of North Carolina

Lighthouse Beach in the village of Buxton is located at Cape Hatteras, the most northern cape in the Outer Banks of North Carolina. This lifeguarded beach is the number one surfing spot on the US Atlantic Coast as the large offshore sand banks, known as Diamond Shoals, cause wave refraction focusing wave energy on this beach.

The Landsat image shows the seaward growth of south flank of Cape Hatteras as evidenced by the parallel lines of beach ridges.

“It is fun to walk down the narrow sand spit, more exposed at low tide, as waves are approaching from both directions because of the bending of the waves.” – Dr. Beach

Landsat 8 collected this image of Lighthouse Beach on May 3, 2020.

4. St. George Island State Park, Florida Panhandle

St. George Island State Park, located on the Florida panhandle and far from urban areas, is a favorite destination for beachgoers, anglers and bird watchers as nature abounds. Like other beaches on the panhandle, this long barrier island has a sugary fine, white sand beach.

In this Landsat image, St. George can be seen north of the bridge that links this barrier island to the mainland. The enclosed bay behind St. George Island is fairly shallow and the water much less clear as shown on the Landsat image, but it is not polluted.

“Besides swimming in the crystal-clear Gulf of Mexico waters, I enjoy beachcombing and shelling. While this island was hit hard in 2018 by Hurricane Michael, it has substantially recovered as there was little development to be impacted.” – Dr. Beach

Landsat 8 collected this image of St. George Island State Park on October 13, 2020.

3. Ocracoke Lifeguard Beach, Outer Banks of North Carolina

Ocracoke Lifeguarded Beach at the southern end of Cape Hatteras National Seashore was the first seashore to be incorporated into the National Park Service system.

The Landsat image shows Ocracoke to the north as separated by an inlet from Portsmouth Island. The village of Ocracoke was built at the wide area of the island where it was protected from oceanic waves during coastal storms which include both winter nor’easters and hurricanes.

“Ocracoke was once the home of the most infamous pirate Blackbeard and is still a very special place—my favorite getaway beach.” – Dr. Beach

Landsat 8 collected this image of Ocracoke Lifeguard Beach on May 3, 2020.

2. Cooper’s Beach, Southampton, New York

Cooper’s Beach in the tony town of Southampton on the south shore of Long Island, New York is shielded from the cold Labrador current, making for a fairly long summer swimming season. The white quartz sand is medium to coarse grained with some pebbles, making the beach slope fairly steeply into the water.

This Landsat image shows the fairly large coastal pond named Mecox Bay to the east with Shinnecock Inlet and Bay also displayed to the west. Coopers Beach is hundreds of yards wide, made of grainy white quartz sand and is backed by large sand dunes covered by American beach grass.

“I spent several decades conducting scientific studies of this very interest oceanic shoreline because it is so dynamic and the beachfront real estate so expensive. Some of the most gorgeous and expensive residential houses in the United States are located in the world-famous Hamptons.” – Dr. Beach

Landsat 8 collected this image of Coopers Beach on August 30, 2019.

1. Hapuna Beach State Park, Big Island Hawaii

Hapuna Beach State Park is a white coral sand beach that resides in a landscape dominated by dark brown lava flows on the Big Island of Hawaii. The crystal-clear water is perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and scuba diving during the summer months in contrast to winter big-wave days when pounding shorebreaks and rip currents make swimming impossible.

Hapuna and the other pocket beaches appear as an oasis in this otherwise fairly bleak landscape except for the areas irrigated as prominently shown on the Landsat imagery by the green vegetation.

“This volcanically active island is the only place that I know where you can snow ski at the high mountain tops and water ski in the warm ocean water on the same day.” – Dr. Beach

Landsat 8 collected this image of Hapuna State Park on January 5, 2021.

What’s your favorite beach?

View Dr. Beach’s 2021 picks and see Landsat views of these beaches over time.

Make sure to follow us on Tumblr for your regular dose of space!

[waikikishorerental]

Mesmerizing Beaches in Honolulu are the Must Visit Beaches in Hawaii

Waikiki Beach, the suburb of Honolulu, is renowned for its mesmerizing coastline and is the main reason why millions of tourists keep coming every season year after year to Hawaii. Some of the popular beaches include Oahu Beaches, Duke Kahanamoku Beach, Fort DeRussy Park, Royal Hawaiian Beach, Gray’s Beach, Kuhio Beach Park, Diamond Head Beach Park, Kuilei Cliff Beach Park, and Wailupe Beach Park. Don’t forget to explore Honolulu’s oldest public park, Kapiolani Park including Waikiki Zoo and Waikiki aquarium. For hikers there is Diamond Head Crater known as Le’ahi. You have the unique opportunity to explore the depth of ocean with Atlantis Submarines. To navigate and explore Waikiki Beach you need a base to settle down and vacation Condo for rent Waikiki Beach is your base in Waikiki. This 1 bedroom fully furnished ocean front condo is budget friendly and has world class amenities and facilities. A fully equipped kitchen is there for you with eye pleasing interior and décor and in close proximity with the Surf Beach of Waikiki.

For Fun Fact you can mail a coconut from Hawaii without a wrapper or box locally known as coconut postcards. Hawaii is the only U.S. state with 2 official languages and gambling is illegal in Hawaii. Surfing was invented in Hawaii. There are no snakes in Hawaii and it’s Rabies-free. The world’s largest Banyan Tree is in the centre of Lahaina. Hawaii produced 1/3 of the World’s commercial Pineapples. The Waikiki Trolley is a great way to navigate and explore Diamond Head, Ala Moana, and Waikiki. Waikiki is the best place in Hawaii to witness the stunning sunset view and you can’t miss the Hula Show during sunset hours. There is something or other for every age group in Waikiki Beach. Though small in shape and size, Waikiki is filled with ocean view rental accommodation. Waikiki Condo Rentals by Owner comes with all modern day amenities and world class facilities. This ocean front 1 bedroom luxury condo is in close proximity with popular tourist destinations and sits between the Outrigger Reef Hotel and DeRussy Park.

[sohannabarberaesque]

Hawai’i calls The Banana Splits back, if but out of sentiment (part two)

(With apologies to Webley “Webb” Edwards [1902-1977] and his long-running Hawai’ian music radio programme Hawai’i Calls [1935-1975] as much as Hanna-Barbera)

The morning after: Following the Continental breakfast offered by the hotel, one of the porters handed Fleegle, de facto leader of the Banana Splits, a message by parties unknown directing them to “meet us by Duke at 10.”

“So who exactly is the ‘Duke’ referred to in this message?” was how Drooper queried things, with the manager explaining that such referred to the statue of “Duke” Kahanamoku at Waikiki Beach, one of modern surfing’s more revered figures by virtue of his introducing that ancient and most revered of Polynesian water sports through exhibitions at Huntington Beach in 1911 (introducing surfing to America) and Freshwater Beach, Sydney, in 1915 (likewise to Australia)--which seems ironic considering that Christian missionaries from the United States, inter alii, tried to suppress surfing in the Hawai’an Islands during the 1820′s and 1830′s because of the “immodesty” inherent (as in the boardriders going naked, which was looked on as one with Sin, never mind that the nakedness was largely out of comfort as much as custom).

At any rate, strolling down Kalakaua Avenue, basically Waikiki’s “main street,” from their hotel, Our Bhoys managed to get surprised looks from surfers and other beach goers headed out to a day’s pleasure on Waikiki, aloha print or no aloha print--and maybe one or two autograph/selfie requests--towards the Duke Kahanamoku statue, bound to see its share of leis draped around his neck (with only the statue of King Kamehamela in front of ‘Iolani Palace getting more) as a show of affectation. And once The Duke’s statue was reached, even as the Kalakaua Avenue traffic was going along at a good clip--

“Hello, boys!!”

It turned out being no less than Mildew Wolf, one with Peter Potamus’ Travelling SCUBA Par-tay, delivering such with trademark snarkiness.

“So you’re The Banana Splits, huh--Bingo, Drooper, Fleegle and Snorky?”

The which Snorky responded rather affirmatively, as confirmed by Drooper so interpreting.

Which had Bingo asking “Why would you want us to meet you beside a statue of a surfing legend like ‘Duke’ Kahanamoku when you happen to be part of a diving troupe?”

“I can see the aloha print is rather flattering,” Mildew observed, never mind that Mildew’s style was more Crazy Shirts, which begat the cheesy T-shirt phenomenon on Waikiki in 1962. (In Mildew’s case, his shirt drew inspiration from Native Hawai’ian lore.)

“So let me guess,” Fleegle enquireth, “what you have in mind--you want us to take up the diving experience, I assume?”

“However did you guess?” After a short pause, Mildew Wolf remarked “Follow uncle,” and led them to a side street about halfway towards Ala Wai Creek, whereupon they were directed to a campy-looking rebuild of a Volkswagen minibus whose entrance door featured the “Diver Down” flag prominently; not long afterward, same would be opened by--

“PETER POTAMUS?!” exclaimed the Splits in sheer disbelief.”

“None other than!” would be the reply, even if Peter’s trademark safari jacket and pith helmet seemed borderline suspicious in the tropical heat.

“So why choose us exactly, Peter?” was how Drooper parsed the question. “And how exactly did you know we were spending a few days here, to begin with?”

“Dumb luck” was all Peter could gather. At any rate, all got into the minibus and set off ... which began with a short excursion to the USS Arizona Memorial at Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam, paying solemn respect and tribute to such sailors as were killed in the shock Japanese attack on the naval station on December 7, 1941, forcing America’s hand into World War II. It may have felt a little solemn for a prelude to what was going to be a rather interesting day ahead.

Because after this rather solemn tribute, it was doubling back on the H1 freeway through Honolulu eastward towards “the Blue Hole” otherwise known as Hanamua Bay State Underwater Park, particularly popular with snorkellers and SCUBA divers because of the rather lush coral reefs to be had offshore as well as the legendary dropoff. Following some awfully impressive snorkelling there, Peter felt it worthwhile to try another interesting dive spot off Makapu’u Point on the southeast fringe of the island of O’ahu, reachable by way of a dive pontoon Peter and Mildew were able to hire over in Waimānalo Beach by way of the local dive shop, itself right on the main highway ... and with some help of some crew from said dive shop, Peter and Mildew were able to coax the Splits into SCUBA gear for a SCUBA lesson which turned out being exceptionally memorable. As in memorable for the flatulence discharged underwater, especially considering the inexperience that Our Bhoys had with SCUBA while trying to stay focused on the view underwater.

“At any rate,” Peter was quick to explain, “such gas passing as you had underwater is not exactly your fault, to begin with. Divers are bound to pass a lot of gas underwater anyway ... Shall we try again, hoping not to get too focused on the likely breaking of wind?” You can guess how that dive turned out, especially when you had unlikely dive instructors and coaches like Peter Potamus and Mildew Wolf “on the spot” in Hawai’i and pointing out some rather beautiful bits of reef, with monk seals and dolphins joining in on the swim ... followed by the magnum opus of any dive with Peter known as the Underwater Hippo Hug on the ocean bottom (which, for some reason, Bingo couldn’t help but feel all the more wonderful about).

*************

“Boys,” Peter Potamus was quick to explain after wrapping up the dive session, “I’ve decided to lay on a surprise for all of you this evening!” (This as the sun was starting to go down, which, considering the latitudes at which Hawai’i is situated, is bound to be rather sudden, not to mention a rather roundabout drive along O’ahu’s eastern shore.)

It was just past the Valley of the Temples, south of Kahalu’u, that Peter explained what was about to go down for the Splits: Nothing less than a night in a hula hut which Peter knew about, on a remote side road which mainstream maps chose not to include, complete with the old-school luau of roasted spit pig and other typically Hawai’ian delicacies as included Japanese noodles and Korean kimchi guaranteed to go all night. Not to mention keeping alive the old, eroticised style of hula which was driven underground thanks to missionary and trader influence because of perceived “sinful” associations.

Admittedly, the Splits took some time to get acquainted with that rather starchy Hawai’an appetiser poi, which Drooper was quick to compare with eating a mix of flour, water and library paste as if having to explain to Snorky that he shouldn’t use his trunk to consume poi wasn’t awful enough ... and to imagine a rather impressive mix of spit-roasted pork, hula in the “natural” style and a view looking out upon a moonlit Kāne’ohe Bay with the tide coming in coming together for a night as worthy of remembrance as the diving earlier in the day!

(Oh, and did I mention their being invited to sleep with the girls of that noble establishment, to be followed practically at sunrise by some uniquely Hawai’ian skinny dipping--including some unlikely pre-dawn time underwater?)

Look, then, for more interesting escapades with The Banana Splits in Hawai’i next week in this space!

@warnerarchive @hanna-barbera-land @warnerbrosentertainment @moonrock1973 @the-banana-splits-ask-blog @wherearethememesonmyplate @hanna-barbera-blog @themineralyoucrave @joey-gatorman @straights-world @screamingtoosoftly @hanna-barberians @cottoncandy-wannabe @the-banana-splits-blog @jg376

[atlantisking]

The late Hawaiian musician Israel Kamakawiwo'ole, did something rare in music. He redefined a beloved classic. His version of "Over the Rainbow" has the poignancy of Judy Garland's and the shimmering vulnerability, but these days it's heard so often on TV and in the movies, a younger generation may only know Israel's version. It's become so popular, it is now the most requested version of the song by far, according to music publishing house EMI. That's quite remarkable for a rendition with one voice, accompanied only by ukulele. 

In 1990, Kamakawiwoʻole released his first solo album Ka ʻAnoʻi, which won awards for Contemporary Album of the Year and Male Vocalist of the Year from the Hawaiʻi Academy of Recording Arts (HARA). Facing Future was released in 1993 by The Mountain Apple Company. It featured a version of his most popular song, the medley "Somewhere Over the Rainbow/What a Wonderful World" (listed as "Over the Rainbow/What a Wonderful World"), along with "Hawaiʻi 78", "White Sandy Beach of Hawaiʻi", "Maui Hawaiian Sup'pa Man", and "Kaulana Kawaihae". The decision to include a cover of "Somewhere Over the Rainbow" was said to be a last-minute decision by his producer Jon de Mello and Kamakawiwoʻole. Facing Future debuted at #25 on Billboard magazine's Top Pop Catalogue chart. On October 26, 2005, Facing Future became Hawaiʻi's first certified platinum album, selling more than a million CDs in the United States, according to figures furnished by the Recording Industry Association of America. On July 21, 2006, BBC Radio 1 announced that "Somewhere Over the Rainbow/What a Wonderful World (True Dreams)" would be released as a single in America.

Facing Future is still the best-selling Hawaiian album of all time, thanks to one song.

Kamakawiwo'ole was also a big supporter and promoter of the independence of Hawaii and Hawaiian rights, he often spoke up about it and even poured it into his lyrics. A couple of those are "ʻE Ala ʻE" and "Hawaiʻi 78", in which among other lyrics he uses the state motto of Hawaii, "Ua Mau ke Ea o ka ʻĀina i ka Pono", it can be roughly translated to "The life of the land is perpetuated in righteousness".

In the summer of 1997, Israel Kamakawiwo'ole, by then one of the most beloved singers in the history of Hawaiian music, died of respiratory failure. He was 38 — and just beginning to see the huge success of "Over the Rainbow." Israel's body lay in state at Hawaii's Capitol building, a rare honor. Days later, he was cremated, along with his vintage Martin ukulele — the one he used to record "Over the Rainbow." The ashes were carried on a traditional Hawaiian voyaging canoe.

Learn more about him here

Previous posts celebrating Asian Pacific American Heritage Month:

Duke Kahanamoku

Biuku Gasa & Eroni Kumana

[adrian225]

BEST TOURIST DESTINATIONS IN HAWAII

https://airlines-gethuman.org/Maui The Valley Isles The Valley IsleAkaka Falls State Park

The gorgeous beach at the Waikiki

Hawaii is famous for its stunning beaches, but Waikiki is the largest tourist-attraction beach of all. The beach is the most fashionable destination due to its top-rated luxurious hotels museum, historical and cultural landmarks. These activities are available in the beautiful stretch of oceanfront beach along the famous boardwalk, referred to as the Waikiki Beach walk, filled with vibrant entertainment cafés, boutiques, and restaurants serving tasty food. The beautiful stretch of oceanfront beach also features a historical trail. The trail is marked by surfboards. markers, which were in the spirit of Olympic gold medalist the swimmer and avid surfer Duke Kahanamoku. The beach is among the most popular beaches in the world. It is home to concerts in the open air including surfing, canoe races dancing, and swimming.

Most Stunning Hawaiian Island to Visit: Hawaii Island

Hawaii Island (aka the Big Island) is the biggest and smallest island of the Hawaiian archipelago. It is a paradise for visitors with endless opportunities to have enjoyment and adventure. There is an active volcano located in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, where you can walk over 150 miles that wind through scorched deserts, craters and rainforests, stroll through a 500-year-old volcanic lava tube and tour the Thomas A. Jaggar Museum to discover more about the science behind volcanology.

There are many historic and historical sites that you can visit, including Kealakekua Bay State Historic Park which allows you to snorkel, scuba dive or paddle kayak. The breathtaking natural beauty of the island has inspired numerous artists. You can see the work of these artists in several galleries as well as the East Hawaii Cultural Center and the Lyman Mission House Museum in Hilo.

Maui The Valley Isles The Valley Isle

Maui is the second most frequented island, with an estimated 2.4 million visitors per year. Tourism is a major influence on the environment of Maui and it has an extensive selection of hotels, resorts condos and private rental properties on the island.

Visit...https://airlines-gethuman.org/

Akaka Falls State Park

To spend a day walking and exploring the lush tropical rainforest, make sure to visit Akaka Falls State Park. It is located close to Hilo located on the Big Island, this park boasts numerous impressive waterfalls, gorges as well as a variety of flora and fauna. Enjoy the peaceful peace of nature and spend your time exploring, swimming, or enjoying picnics.

OAHU

Oahu is Hawaii's capital city, Honolulu, and is one of the most developed islands. The places to see are Pearl Harbor and the surfing paradise of Waikiki Beach. If you're on Big Island, you can take your time between the soft beaches of the western shoreline and the dynamism in Volcanoes National Park in the east. The tropical forest of Maui slopes down to classic black and white beaches, where turtles make their nests, and you can explore Kauai's stunning Na Pali coastline by helicopter or by boat. In addition, there are the smaller, more tranquil island in Lanai and Molokai in which the more traditional lifestyle is reintroduced.

[hell-yeahfilm]

THE AWESOME 50 STATES

The highly visual, energetic layout of this guide keeps a dense mix of photos, graphics, and typefaces clear and accessible and packs in plenty of information about curious state-specific phenomena. Each state’s four-page section spotlights, among other things, a map silhouette, a dessert, a state food, a ride (most often in an amusement park), and some state facts (including bird, nickname, and date of statehood). Flags are not included. Also included are facts labeled the “Oldest in America” (mostly European settlements and structures) and “Spookiest Spot.” “Horrifying History” features natural disasters, accidents, war, and violent human tragedies. Mostly missing are scientific inventions and discoveries—other than geological or paleontological—as well as celebration of racial diversity (Chinese and African Americans are mentioned in the context of tragic massacres). While many state names originate from Indigenous languages, this is not consistently acknowledged. More troubling is the casual positioning of Indian names as humor—Kickapoo, Louisiana, for instance, is presented as a “Funniest Town Name”—or worse. Slaughter Beach, Delaware, is given the same label, followed by an explanation that it may refer to the killing of Native residents. The 9-foot statue of Duke Kahanamoku in Waikiki is given as Hawaii’s “Weirdest Roadside Attraction.”

from Kirkus Reviews https://ift.tt/3yeD1qt

[battenwear]

The Fifth Pocket

Sometimes, we like to think back to when we first started Battenwear. One particularly fond memory is of a Saturday afternoon in spring 2011. Shinya had just finished his gig at Woolrich Woolen Mills, and his head was cluttered with ideas for what would soon become his first very own brand. 

This was before we had our kids. So, instead of dodging toys to get across the living room, we were navigating through a maze of wall-leaning surfboards, towers of shoe boxes, vintage knick knacks, and stacks of art books. And, as the launch date for Battenwear approached, we increasingly lived among rolls of fabric too. It was rare to sit somewhere in our apartment without having to move a bundle of zippers. Buttons were our version of loose change.

Anyhow, on that particular Saturday afternoon, Shinya had just gotten back from a trip to Rockaway Beach to clear his mind. We didn’t have a car back then, so he took the A train. It’s a pretty fun ride, not too long from Downtown Brooklyn to Rockaway 90, but it’s a juggle getting in and out of the subway stations carrying a surfboard.  

As a result, when Shinya finally returned home to our apartment that day, he sat down immediately on the hardwood floor in front of our coffee table and started drawing on his grid sketchpad. What could he make that would help with that juggle getting in and out of the subway? 

And that’s how we came to have one of our own personal favorite garments of all time: the Five Pocket Island Shirt. 

As with almost all Battenwear core items, the starting point was functionality. Shinya is a clothes-hound with more in his closet than any one man could ever wear, and he spends his free time thinking about how those clothes could be better. What details they would need in order to be perfect for hiking or camping or rock climbing? What versatility they were missing in order to be wearable all day, from rockface to restaurant.  

As the Five Pocket Island Shirt started coming together that afternoon on the sketchpad, Shinya first thought of Hawaiian shirts, and the surf gods like Duke Kahanamoku who wore them.  

That was the feeling he wanted, but what about the practicality? Shinya then remembered  his favorite old guayabera shirt. In college, he had taken a trip to Cuba, and somewhere on the way from Tokyo to Havana, the airline had lost all of his luggage. With virtually nothing to his name, Shinya headed to a shop near his hotel and picked up some supplies, including a guayabera. And once he changed into it, he realized how great the pockets would be for storing his valuables and essentials. 

Plus, it looked great, as Papa Hemmingway can attest. 

So, he started with the spirit of an Aloha shirt, built into it the practical coolness of a guayabera, and finished it off with some Brooklyn ingenuity. He thought about what a juggle it had been to get in and out of the subway that morning with his surfboard under his arm, taking his metro card out of his wallet, getting his cash out for a coffee at the bodega by the beach. To make this shirt as suited to travel as possible, he gave it a pocket the perfect size for a metrocard with maybe a five dollar bill wrapped around it. The other pockets would be for his eyedrops, keys, chapstick, passport, change, pen, notebook, etc. 

So, that’s how the Fifth Pocket came to be born, one spring afternoon in  Brooklyn on a coffee table scattered with errant buttons and fond memories of a trip gone awry to Cuba. 

[goddess-of-trash]

A Real Adventure and Amazing Travel Experience of Markha Terk in India

The Markha Valley is among the most beautiful trekking valleys in the area of Ladakh. This green oasis provides a breath taking view of the snow capped Korakoram Mountains. Famous because of Markha Valley Treks, this area provides travel enthusiasts an enthralling short trekking trip across the high passes of the gorgeous mountains surrounded by deep gorges and arid landscapes. Covered with vivid colors of cherry and barley plants this area provides spectacular views of the Indian subcontinent to the tourists at a Ladakh trek. So if you're one of those who wish to research to the constraints that an adventure tour in India, this Himalayan region called the"Little Tibet" is the perfect place to be.

The actual adventure and awesome travel experience of Markha Terk in India is felt when you confront some of the heart daredevil challenges thrown by this irregular terrain located at 5, 150 m of height. In actuality, Markha Trekking majorly entails walking at a moderate to high elevations of the area, and that means you want to get a greater degree of physical fitness. The more physically fit you are, the more you'll like Markha Treking in India. Adding to this, the Markha trekking tour in India even has much more to offer. Maybe, the place even offers numerous opportunities where you can indulge yourself in many alternatives and have maximum delight.

Since winters in Ladakh are very cold with maximum temperature being fifteen degrees Celsius, the ideal time to perform Markha Valley trek is between the months of September to December. You should be certain that you pack your luggage with adequate medicines, food and warm clothes to last the whole trekking trip as you might not find these essentials as soon as you've started the trek. If you buy one of those adventure tour packages, be sure they offer you all essential camping equipments needed while walking around the Markha Terk.

Your tour of India in Himalayan region is simply incomplete without experiencing the actual experience of Markha Trekking. This location could definitely give you the best experience of a few of the roughest trekking tours in the background of most serene and exuberating nature. Additionally, the existence of local Buddhist cultures and the vibrant Buddhist monasteries will further add up to the memories of your adventure tour of India that you'll cherish through out your whole life.

Vacationing In Oahu - An Unrivaled Travel Experience

Vacationing in Oahu Island of Hawaii is an adventure that leaves every visitor entertained. Offering a rich and vibrant kitty of natural beauty, interesting activities and historic landmarks, the place deserves to top the record of each travel enthusiast preparation for his next holiday.

The third largest of the Hawaiian islands, Oahu presents itself as an ideal tourist spot boasting of attractive natural beauty, wildlife, historic landmarks and a wealthy kitty of activities including water sports.

The key Oahu attractions include the following -

Waikiki Beach

Bejeweling the southern coast of the Oahu island, Waikiki Beach is world renowned as a surfing spot. In actuality, a massive section of the shore is indicated for surfers. A notable characteristic of Waikiki beach is the fact that it's long rolling break, making it a perfect surfing place for those individuals who have just begun to take interest in the game. Aside from surfing, there are various interesting areas, such as Ala Wai Harbor, Kahanamoku Lagoon, Kapiolani Park and Kuhio Beach Park.

Diamond Head

A volcanic tuff cone, Diamond Head has been credited with the status of a United States State Monument. The place is also a darling of hiking enthusiasts, who throng here to experience a thrilling hiking trip that entails a challenging journey over irregular rock and through two tunnels, scaling around 200 steps. The hiking trip ultimately ends within a coastal artillery observation platform, which exposes you to a magnificent view of the surrounding ambiance.

USS Arizona Memorial

USS Arizona Memorial stands in the final resting place of these US soldiers, who had been aboard USS Arizona when the same was drowned by Japan during the famous Pearl Harbor attack of World War II. The historic legacy borne by the place naturally causes it to draw a massive number of visitors each year, who need to go to the spot in a ship by crossing over the sunken hall of USS Arizona.

Battleship Missouri Memorial

The importance of Battleship Missouri lies in the fact that it had been on its decks which records were signed putting an end into the World War II. Naturally it's recognized as a valuable historic and educational exhibition, attracting tourists in massive numbers.

Hanauma Bay

Lying on the southeast shore of the Oahu island, Hanauma Bay enjoys high tourist fame. It's a Nature Preserve in addition to a Marine Life Conservation District, boasting an abundant population of Green sea turtles parrotfish. Another important attraction of this place lies in its own coral heads.

North Shore

Lying on the north facing coastal region of the island, North Shore boasts of enormous waves, the attribute that explains its popularity among surfers throughout the world. The truth is the place is perceived by many as the surfing mecca of the world. The most notable surfing spot in the North Shore region is Ehukai Beach or Banzai Pipeline, together with all the other ones such as Waimea Bay and Sunset Beach. Each December the place plays host to three surfing contests, which jointly constitute Triple Crown of Surfing.

The attractions discussed above represent just a few of the Oahu attractions, with many more being there to entertain the visitor. It's a place that may be unhesitatingly termed as a"must visit", given the traveling experience it offers to tourists that are lucky to set foot on its soil.

So why don't you opt for Oahu Island when you're ready for your next holiday? Just browse the Internet for organizations connected with Oahu Island tours, approach them, and organize for a memorable holiday that you and your family will cherish for your lifetime.

The author is presently connected with Royal Hawaiian Tour, among the most dependable and affordable private taxi cab service providers to tourists visiting Oahu Island and other areas of the Hawaii Limousine supplied by the organization is a favorite among both general in addition to VIP tourists.

[noaasanctuaries]

Celebrating Asian-Pacific American Heritage Month in Sanctuaries

In 1919, scholar Abraham Fornander recorded a Hawaiian mele, a chant, that included the lines:

Ke pua loa, iloko, iwaho, I ka i‘a ka papa i lohia i hee ai. Ka ia a ka papa i ka huli, Kaikai a lealea ka wai.

The long fish-net is taken in and out The fish gather in shoals and are entrapped; The fish are gathered in one draught, Lifting up the net til the water rejoices.

Large hauls of fish, one of the primary sources of protein for the Hawaiian and other Polynesian peoples, were a cause for joy. Hawaiians, like many indigenous peoples, had learned how to be careful stewards of their environment, using a kapu system of religious and social restrictions guiding everyday life.

The basis for at least some of these restrictions was to protect and preserve sources of food for a people with limited arable lands and sometimes dangerous seas as their larders and supermarkets. For example, some kapus left certain areas of land and water unharvested to allow stocks to replenish. Today, these practices and areas inform the protection of many of our national marine sanctuaries.

This early image (taken c. 1862) shows men surfing on the beach at Waikīkī. Surfing has its roots deep in Native Hawaiian and Polynesian culture, and was popularized outside Hawai���i by Duke Kahanamoku (1890-1968), Olympic athlete and surfing champion. Image courtesy of the New York Public Library

Three modern ocean parks with Polynesian ties are included in the National Marine Sanctuary System: National Marine Sanctuary of American Samoa (including Rose Atoll Marine National Monument), Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary, and Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument. Traditional Hawaiian and Samoan practices underlay the management of all three sites.

National Marine Sanctuary of American Samoa is the second largest site in the sanctuary system at over 13,000 square miles. The sanctuary protects collapsed volcanic craters, vibrant coral patch and shelf communities, open pelagic habitat, unique fish and seabird populations, and important cultural and maritime heritage resources.

A painting completed in 1873 by E. Moody shows a Samoan outrigger canoe. Samoans, Hawaiians, and other Polynesian people had an ancient voyaging tradition built on skilled navigators and their abilities to read wind, waves, and stars. Image courtesy of National Anthropological Archives, Smithsonian Institution

American Samoa is one of the oldest continuous Polynesian cultures in the Pacific, over 3,000 years old. The traditional way of life in the islands, Fa'a-Samoa, provides the cultural setting for management decisions. As Atuatasi Lelei Peau, the deputy superintendent for the sanctuary and a Samoan high talking chief, states, "It is paramount that any work done in the village follows traditional protocol by first requesting a meeting with the village council to discuss and to attain mutual understanding of the program. In our culture we have to reach consensus as leaders as we represent our families and we make decisions that can impact villages, the community, and the district."

It's not easy, he points out, but it is crucial: "Through dialogue and engagement this may take several months to a year, but commitment and perseverance to reach greater understanding allows buy-in with results being more meaningful."

A teacher in American Samoa collects material for her classroom during the Dive Into Education Conference. National Marine Sanctuary of American Samoa provides many resources for local schools, including teacher materials, lesson plans, and summer science camps. Photo: Claire Fackler/NOAA

Further north, Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary was established in 1992 to protect humpback whales and their habitat. While the sanctuary uses cutting-edge modern science and management to study and protect humpback whales (including the recent disentanglement off Maui), the site also utilizes age-old stewardship practices. For example, the site has been working with technical advisors to integrate traditional Hawaiian ecological knowledge into its management regime, including aloha ‘āina, having a love and respect for all living things.

The sanctuary is also working to restore a Native Hawaiian fishpond near its visitor center and office on Maui. In partnership with the non-profit organization ʻAoʻao O Nā Loko Iʻa O Maui (Association of the Fishponds of Maui), the sanctuary is rebuilding the historical fishpond known as Kōʻieʻie Loko Iʻa using traditional methods. This three-acre pond is one of the last remaining intact traditional fish ponds along the South Maui coastline. Through projects like this, the sanctuary works with the community to mālama (care for) the ocean as Native Hawaiians historically have.

Members of the community help to restore a Native Hawaiian fishpond. Photo: Ed Lyman/NOAA

In the uninhabited Northwestern Hawaiian Islands, Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument is the biggest site in the National Marine Sanctuary System.  In fact, it's the largest protected area in the U.S. and one of the largest in the world, encompassing 580,000 square miles of oceanic and coral habitat. Recognizing the significance of its powerful cultural importance and near-pristine natural habitats and wildlife, the monument was declared a World Heritage Site in 2010.

While the monument is closed to the general public, Native Hawaiians visit for cultural practices. In Hawaiian traditions, the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands are a sacred place, from which life springs and spirits return after death. "Some of the Native Hawaiian access trips up there [to the monument] have resulted in learning about shrines and placement of upright stones for navigation and other purposes," says Athline Clark, the monument's superintendent. "Because the cultural resources up there are undisturbed, they help to then guide the rebuilding of heiau, or shrines, in the main Hawaiian Islands. The lessons learned from the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands have helped guide the rebirth of some of these traditions in the Main Hawaiian Islands."

An endangered Hawaiian monk seal companionably shares the beach with an threatened green sea turtle. There are thousands of distinct species in Hawaiian waters from the smallest benthic invertebrates, to darting reef fish, to predatory tiger sharks, to far-ranging humpback whales. Photo: Mark Sullivan/NOAA

From the Pacific Islands to the mainland, we are a maritime nation, protected, shaped, and dependent upon our ocean. We are a people that rejoice in our ocean, a nation that, while it still has much work to do, has laid strong foundations to protect our waters. This month, as we celebrate Asian-Pacific American Heritage Month, we recognize and honor the contributions of the Native Hawaiian, Samoan, and other Polynesian peoples to our marine conservation approaches. These traditions are at the very heart of who we are and what we do as the National Marine Sanctuary System.

[duncanbarker-blog]

There’s more to Hawaii than just beautiful beaches and Mai Tais, and these Hawaii books are the best way to prepare for your trip. The islands have a rich culture, multi-cultural people, and turbulent history including the overthrow of their monarchy and annexation by the USA in 1898.

I think it’s important to learn more about these seemingly paradise islands before you visit. As usual with my pre-travel , I focused on fictional books set in Hawaii rather than dry histories, and I learned a lot while enjoying engaging stories.

These historical and contemporary Hawaii novels and short stories are a mix of fascinating, tragic, and entertaining.

1) Shark Dialogues by Kiana Davenport

If you only read one book set in Hawaii, make it this one by Hawaiian writer Kiana Davenport. It's one of my favourite books ever!

Shark Dialogues is an epic, complex, multi-generational family saga that weaves the history of Hawaii with the story of powerful matriarch Pono and her four granddaughters. You’ll learn about the Polynesian ancestors, whaling industry, sugar plantations, different immigrant groups (Japanese, Chinese, Filipino), annexation by the US, leper colony, and the fight for sovereignty.

The language is luscious and poetic with magical realism elements that reminded me of Isabel Allende. The novel features Hawaiian myths and language (with a glossary) and some characters use Hawaiian Pidgin, so it feels very immersive and you can pick up some of the local language.

It’s set mostly on the Big Island but also features Oahu, Maui, and Molokai. It does awaken you to the impact of tourism on the islands, so while you may be left feeling guilty for visiting, I think it’s important to be aware of the reality.

Shark Dialogues is a tremendous book and I can’t recommend it highly enough.

2) Moloka'i by Alan Brennert

Moloka’i is one of the most popular books about Hawaii. This captivating novel tells the story of Rachel, a young Native Hawaiian girl who is sent to the leper colony on Molokai at the very end of the 19th century.

It’s fascinating to read what life was like in the Kalaupapa colony, both the horrors and how it became a strong and supportive community over the years as the residents embraced life in the face of death.

There’s information about traditional Hawaiian culture as well as a historical backdrop—the introduction of planes, World War II, and the changes to Honolulu after the war.

Although it’s fiction, it’s inspired by the real leper colony, which you can now visit and still houses a few elderly residents (voluntarily).

If you enjoy Moloka’i, don’t miss the new sequel, Daughter of Moloka’i, which follows Rachel’s daughter. Although it’s mostly set in California with a focus on the internment of Japanese Americans during WWII, it also features Honolulu and Maui.

3) This is Paradise: Stories by Kristiana Kahakauwila

This is a powerful, beautiful collection of short stories that depict the glories and struggles of contemporary Hawaiian life on Maui, Oahu, Kauai and the Big Island.

The stories are all very different with a wide range of characters, but common themes are identity, family, love, home, and death. The use of Pidgin in the dialogue immerses you in the culture.

I especially loved the first eponymous story which cleverly uses the voices of three groups of Hawaiian women (young surfers, hotel cleaners, professionals) in Waikiki, Honolulu to tell the story of a young tourist whose vacation takes a dark turn.

4) Island of Sweet Pies and Soldiers by Sara Ackerman

This Hawaii novel is an enjoyable, easy read, although the subject matter is serious. It’s set during World War II in a small town on the Big Island where most residents are of Japanese heritage. Soldiers set up a base nearby and some of the local women befriend them and their mascot lion (which is based on a real lion!).

One of the women’s husband has gone missing and another’s is sent to a Japanese internment camp. The women come together to get through the tough times and bake pies for the soldiers to earn extra money.

The story is partly told by 10-year-old Ella who knows what happened to her father but is too scared to tell.

I also enjoyed Ackerman’s latest novel, The Lieutenant’s Nurse, about a nurse who arrives in Honolulu just before the Pearl Harbour attack during WWII.

5) The Descendants by Kaui Hart Hemmings

The Descendants is set in contemporary Hawaii on Oahu and Kauai (Hanalei). It’s a moving novel about Matthew King, a descendant of Hawaiian royalty who struggles to deal with his two girls as his wife lays in a coma. At the same time he has to make a decision about selling the land he has inherited on Kauai.

I enjoyed the book and it covers some important issues in Hawaii as well as grief and forgiveness. It has also been made into a good movie starring George Clooney.

6) House of Many Gods by Kiana Davenport

If you enjoyed Shark Dialogues, I also recommend this novel by Kiana Davenport. House of Many Gods tells the story of a Hawaiian family on the impoverished Waianae Coast on Oahu from the 1960s to current day.

They have to deal with traumatised and injured war veterans, drugs, parents abandoning their kids, and limited opportunities. At first I found it bleak, but I soon became engaged by the story of Ana, who was abandoned by her mother but goes on to become a doctor.

As with Shark Dialogues, the writing is lyrical and the book is a fascinating insight into Hawaiian language, culture, traditions (especially during pregnancy and childbirth), and the wisdom of elders. Environmental justice is a major theme.

There’s also a short section set in Kauai that includes a helicopter ride over the island and is worth if you are planning to do that.

7) Honolulu by Alan Brennert

Honolulu is another engrossing historical novel set in Hawaii by Alan Brennert. It takes place in the early 20th century in pre-WWII Honolulu and focuses on the Asian immigrants who were brought to the island to work on sugar and pineapple plantations.

The main character is Jin, a young Korean girl who comes to Hawaii as a picture bride (like a mail-order bride) and is shocked to discover that her arranged marriage is to a poor and violent plantation worker.

The book follows the tragedies and triumphs of immigrant life and features some real-life characters such as Queen Liliʻuokalani and Duke Kahanamoku (a swimmer who popularised surfing).

8) The Last Aloha by Gaellen Quinn

I didn’t find this novel as well written as the ones above, but it is enjoyable and tells the important story of how Hawaii’s queen was dethroned.

It’s told through the eyes of Laura, a young American woman who moves from San Francisco to the islands to live with relatives after her father dies. Her uncle came from a missionary background but is now part of the wealthy elite making enormous amounts of money from the sugar industry. He and others plot to overthrow the queen to protect their business interests.

Laura ends up working for the royal family and is close to them as they struggle to save their kingdom.

For a more authentic account of these events, you might want to read Hawai’i’s Story by Hawai’i’s Queen, which was written by the last monarch Queen Liliʻuokalani herself. I found the book rather dry and difficult to get through, though.

9) The Goddesses by Swan Huntley

If you are looking for an easy beach read set in Hawaii, try The Goddesses. Nancy, a 48-year-old American woman, moves to Kona on the Big Island with her teenage sons and husband as they try to rebuild their marriage after his infidelity.

Nancy becomes swept up in a dangerous friendship with her charismatic yoga teacher and things start going wrong. There are lovely descriptions of the island, but you won’t learn much about Hawaiian culture.

I hope you enjoy these Hawaii books and that they give you more insight into the islands’ unique culture and history. 

If you are looking for a Hawaii travel guidebook, I recommend the detailed Hawaii Revealed series by local Andrew Doughty. We used the Maui and Kauai guides and there are also books on Oahu and the Big Island. 

You can also read these other posts about Hawaii: 

The Ultimate Maui Itinerary

The Best Road to Hana Stops 

Where to Stay in Kauai

17 Unmissable Things to do in Kauai

Do you have any other recommendations for books about Hawaii? We’re already planning our next trip and I need to add to my list!

Enjoyed this post? Pin it for later!

[celestialmazer]

Hawaiian Shirts Guide

Source - https://www.beyondretro.com/blogs/news/hawaiian-shirts-guide

The Hawaiian shirt is a true vintage classic, an iconic look that has lasted through the decades and is now a staple in the summer style staples. Whether you’re inspired by a retro film or your uncle’s holiday style, there’s no doubt that its influence is everywhere in fashion. So we’ve decided to delve into the history of this iconic shirt, from its origins to the big pop culture moments that have kept the Hawaiian shirt back to the forefront of men’s fashion.

The Origin of the Hawaiian Shirt

Even though Hawaii was self-governed in the 1880s there was still a massive presence of US-run businesses. Seeking cheap labour, American business owners recruited from all corners of the world, from China, Korea and Portugal, but most importantly to the Aloha shirt, Japanese immigrants.

Why was this important?

Fast forward to the 1920s where Gordon Young, a student at the University of Hawaii, worked with his mother’s dressmaker to create a ‘pre-aloha shirt’. Using Japanese Yutaka cloth, known to be used by Japanese women for work kimonos. Patterns included blue or black bamboo and geometric designs on white backgrounds. Soon enough, these became popular with his classmates in Hawaii. Young later attended the University of Washington, bringing his shirts with him, turning heads aplenty and sparking a lot of fashion debate.

It wasn’t until the 30s that the Aloha shirt really started to increase in popularity. The key to this was Ellery Chun, a local businessman who had just graduated from Yale in 1931. He transformed a Chinese dry goods shop into the first mass producer of Hawaiian shirts, coining the term “Aloha-shirts” and making them a must-have of Honolulu.

Shortly after, Hawaiian shirts went into mass production. Alfred Shaheen was at the forefront of this, during the 50s his textile company ‘Shaheen’s of Honolulu’ was the largest producing Hawaiian shirts in Hawaii. Aloha shirts for men were his big speciality, but his range also included sarong dresses for women, the first of their kind being made in large-scale. As sales boomed, Shaheen hired teams of artists to design new motifs for fabrics, with artists experimenting with prints and producing non-traditional coconut tree’s, oriental fish and surfers.

These foreign influences, paired with Hawaiian native Kapa cloth clothes, were instrumental in creating the Hawaiian shirt.

Other big names such a Kamehameha and Duke Kahanamoku, as well as Shaheen’s of Honolulu, helped turn the Hawaiian shirt from a novelty tourist item into a commercially traded product.

Aloha shirts have strong Japanese roots as these immigrants often brought with them bright kimono fabrics. Filipino and Chinese immigrants also play a role by bringing barong talongs, a type of traditional untucked shirt, and multicoloured silks.

The Mass production of Hawaiian Shirts

Our 6 Favourite Hawaiian Shirt Moments In Pop Culture

From Here to Eternity, 1953.

Hollywood in the 50s really embraced the shirt. Shaheen was big on celebrity endorsement, encouraging all the biggest Hollywood stars to wear his pieces, helping them break through to more mainstream fashion in America. They became immortalised on the silver screen with Frank Sinatra, Ernest Borgnine, Montgomery Clift, and Burt Lancaster all wearing them in the 1953 movie classic, “From Here to Eternity.” making them a staple in movie fashion history.

Elvis Presley in Blue Hawaii, 1961.

Elvis was THE style icon of his time, breaking boundaries in men's fashion throughout his career, capturing the imagination of the world. When the King of Rock n Roll starred in Blue Hawaii, he was the perfect model for Shaheen’s Hawaiian Shirts. Coupled with an iconic soundtrack and set in paradise, Elvis made the Hawaiian shirt the perfect item for a summer holiday on the beach.

Tom Selleck in Magnum P.I., 1980-1988.

This American crime drama set in Hawaiian became an overnight success, ranking in the top 20 TV shows in the US for most of the 80s. As the key character, Tom Selleck’s stardom exploded, and his relaxed summer style featuring multiple Hawaiian shirts in a dazzling array of colours and prints, along with short shorts, baseball caps and accessorised with lots of chest hair and a giant tash, became one of the most recognisable looks of the decade.

Jim Carrey in Ace Ventura: Pet Detective, 1994.

Just when you thought the Hawaiian shirt’s loud colours had been left in the 80s, the outlandish comedian Jim Carrey somehow brings it back for his bizarre character in Ace Ventura: Pet Detective. Not the most obvious source of style inspo, Carrey works an open Hawaiian shirt over a white t-shirt and flashy trousers making it modern, fun and wonderfully weird.

Leonardo DiCaprio, Romeo + Juliet, 1996.

This was quite possibly the best film of the 90s, with Baz Luhrmann adapting William Shakespeare’s classic without changing the language, but updating the location, music and style, taking it to dizzying heights of cool. Leonardo DiCaprio cemented his 90s heartthrob status for life in this film, and his beautiful collection of Hawaiian shirts, also worn by his crew The Montagues, showcase how to make this look effortlessly cool.

Johnny Depp, Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas, 1998.

A modern classic, Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas is a trippy adaptation of Hunter S. Thompson’s American Dream novel that became a cult hit. Johnny Depp took his wardrobe into his own hands, managing to get a hand on items that really did belong to Thompson himself, including his iconic Hawaiian shirts. This bad boy take on the relaxed summer look was combined with hazy yellow sunglasses, bucket hats and converse, perfect for an endless, potentially trippy, summer.

How to style a Hawaiian shirt

Feeling inspired by our top classic Hawaiian shirt moments? We've chosen 3 easy styles perfect for everyday wear whether your off on holiday, having a weekend at a festival or just hanging out with your mates.

Beachwear

Hit the beach in a classic Hawaiian shirt and add some fresh colours to your holiday wardrobe. Whether you're looking for scenic beach prints, palm leaf patterns or a novelty parrot motif, we have a Hawaiian shirt for every occasion. Style with beach trunks or shorts for an easy breezy look to handle the heat.

Festival Ready

Shop bold Hawaiian print perfect for a summer full of festivals. Layer over your favourite vintage t-shirt to put your own style stamp on this classic look. Don’t forget your favourite 90s sunnies to hide tired eyes!

Skater Street Style

This low key look is perfect for a weekend in the city, at the skate park or the pub. Pair with your trusty old pair of Vans and jeans and you’ve got a great look for day to night.

May 2022 edit: Esme Young made the Romeo shirts - had to make 10 of them!

https://www.cheshire-live.co.uk/news/showbiz/sewing-bees-esme-young-amazes-23940081