You can find Malaekahana Bay on the northeastern coast of Oahu between Laie and Kahuku.

Malaekahana Beach is fairly secluded but offers visitors a long white-sand beach to enjoy.

Due to small crowds, Malaekahana Beach is perfect for beach walks, playing in the water, sports activities, and simply relaxing.

If you want to spend a quiet day away from the crowded beaches, this is the place to go.

Malaekahana Bay provides nice conditions for both bodyboarding and surfing. During Winter, the waves are big but can be dangerous if you are not experienced.

Malaekahana Beach does not offer lifeguards, so please be aware of the surf and tide conditions, as well the reefs on some parts of the beach.

Just offshore, you can view a small island called Mokuauia Island, or more commonly knows as Goat Island. For those able to get to Goat Island, it offers a white, sandy beach. If you look carefully, you can often see the endangered green sea turtles.

Overall, Malaekahana Beach is a great place to have fun in the sun and sand. If you enjoy the solitude and a relaxing day on a quiet beach, then Malaekahana Beach should be high on your list.

Here, at the Poipu Bay Resort Golf Course on Kauai, nature renown designer Robert Trent Jones Jr. have conspired to create a stunning venue for the star studded PGA Grand Slam of Golf.

A unique and unforgettable golfing experience awaits you – one that will bring every aspect of your game into fresh and thrilling focus.

Even the Golf Shop at Poipu Bay is rated as one of the finest in America… with a full line of Grand Slam and resort logo wear featured. The PGA Grand  Slam is one of Golf’s most exclusive events.

Recent Grand Slam winners include Tiger Woods, Ernie Els, and Greg Norman.

For them, in addition to Nick Faldo, Ben Crenshaw, Davis Love III, and a host of other golf greats, the ticket to tee off at Poipu Bay Resort Golf Course is victory in The Masters, U.S. Open, British Open, or the PGA Championship.

For you, its a little easier: Simply book a tee time!  Poipu Bay Golf Course

The Hawaiian Lei is an image that most people associate directly to Hawaii. It’s a wonderful island greeting for arriving tourists as well as used by locals for many special occasions.

Be sure to treat yourself to one of the traditional single-strand leis, featuring beautiful, fresh local orchids. But what’s the history of the Hawaiian Lei?

The history of the lei dates way back to the time of ancient Hawaiians. They wore a variety of braided leaves, shells, native flowers, stones, feathers, and even bones to beautify themselves.

Ancient Hawaiians also offered these garlands to each other in addition to their gods as a tangible symbol of both their love and friendship. The lei was treasured and worn with pride by people from every age group.

Polynesians who had voyaged to Hawaii from nearby Tahiti, introduced the lei to the Hawaiian Islands. A lei was worn as a form of decoration, similar to how people wear jewelry today. They were also given in greeting or to honor the recipient.

The traditional flower lei, which is basically a garland worn like a necklace, is created by stringing together individual flowers into single or multiple strands. When completed, the ends are then tied together.

Leis are still carefully made by hand, weaving fragrant, colorful flowers and leaves together to create a work of art. Leis are worn on all special occasions and given to family and friends as gifts of love. Indeed, the lei is a symbol of Hawaii.

Each Hawaiian island has its own signature lei flower. In addition to the shells for Niihau and the red Lehua for the Big Island, Oahu favors the orange Ilima. Kauai uses a green vine and berry called the Mokihana and Molokai has the Kukui, the white blossom of the Candlenut Tree. Maui’s choice is the Lokelani, a small rose. The yellow moss, Kuanaoa, is the choice of Lanai.

Today, in addition to weddings and special ceremonies, flower lei are most often presented to honor birthdays and graduations. Islanders will also wear a lei on May 1, which is Lei Day in Hawai’i, and during the Aloha Week festivities that take place throughout the islands during the Fall.

The lei is also was used in more formal ceremonies. Beautiful Jasmine flowers or pikake are traditionally used in courtship and marriage.

Chef Nobu Matsuhisa will be returning to his Hawaii flagship restaurant, Nobu Waikiki at Waikiki Parc Hotel (Oahu, HI – www.waikikiparc.com) next week for a series of exclusive events that will provide individuals with rare insight on how he became a master chef.

The incredibly talented Chef Nobuyuki Matsuhisa, is known to the world simply as “Nobu”. Chef Nobu is the acclaimed and highly influential chef proprietor of Nobu, Matsuhisa and Ubon restaurants all over the globe.

During his visit he will be conducting an exclusive Art of Sushi & Sake Tasting Class on Thusday, February 11th. The class will provide participants a rare and unique glimpse into how Nobu creates his famed dishes. Students will be able to directly interact with Nobu in the kitchen for a truly memorable hands-on experience followed by lunch with the famous chef.

In addition, Nobu will also be hosting guests at the Lounge at Nobu Waikiki for Aperitivo!, his signature happy hour. Aperitivo! will feature a tasting trio of Nobu’s selections served with a signature cocktail.

Chef Nobuyuki Matsuhisa has received numerous prestigious honors from the culinary community, including:
- America’s 10 Best New Chefs by Food and Wine Magazine
- Southern California’s Rising Stars by Los Angeles Times Magazine
- induction into Who’s Who of Food and Beverage in America by the James Beard Foundation
- as well as many nominations for Outstanding Chef by the James Beard Foundation.

The luxury Shops at Wailea has become some of the most popular attractions in all of Maui.

This upscale shopping and dining complex is quickly becoming a flourishing tourism site. The Shops at Wailea opened for business in 2001 and has become a popular destination for Maui vacationers and locals.

The impressive, tropical complex boasts sixteen acres and more than fifty shops and restaurants for visitors to enjoy. There is a generous mix of local retailers as well as larger conglomerates that are well-known worldwide.

The Shops at Wailea (sometimes called the Wailea Shopping Village) is located near Maui’s famous and luxurious Wailea Resort, adjacent to the Wailea Beach Villas resort fronting Wailea Beach.

The shopping center offers the Maui tradition of a relaxed atmosphere in a beautiful setting. You’ll find treasures from internationally renowned designers like Tiffany & Co. and Louis Vuitton to local artisans by leading artists from Maui.

A few of the many luxury shops are Betsy Johnson, Vendi, Gucci, Bottega Veneta, Guess, Cache, Coach, Cos Bar, St. John Boutique and Tori Richard.

While searching for fine fashion and casual clothing, some of the favorites are Banana Republic, Billabong, Chico’s, Crazy Shirts, Enchantress Boutiques, Gap, Honolua Wahine, Maui Water Wear, Quicksilver, Sgt. Leisure, Sisters & Co. Boutique Salon, The Walking Company and White House/ Black Market.

For the perfect gift or jewelry, check out Elephant Walk- A Gallery of Life, Martin & MacArthur, Sand People, Black Pearl Gallery, Dolphin Gallery, Folli Follie, Na Hoku, Tiffany & Co and Wailea Jewelry.

If you seek fine dining options, enjoy a variety of choice ranging from typical American foods to Pacific Rim cuisine. Some options include Longhi’s, Ruth’s Chris Steak House, Tommy Bahama’s Tropical Cafe and Cheeseburger Island.

For entertainment options, sip a cocktail while you listen to Hawaiian music and dance at WOW! Wailea on Wednesdays. Other events include gallery receptions, artist appearances, retail and restaurant specials and free live entertainment every Wednesday.

The Shops at Wailea
3750 Wailea Alanui Drive
Wailea, HI 96753
phone:(808) 891-6770
fax:(808) 891-6772

There’s a new venue in Honolulu that presents a unique experience for both visitors and locals.

The King’s Village Shopping Center and the Hyatt Regency Waikiki Beach Resort and Spa recently invite the public to the new Friday evening Farmers’ Market and Changing of the Guard Ceremony at King’s Village Shopping Center.

King’s Village is located at 131 Kaiulani Avenue in Honolulu, Oahu. The exciting new event runs from 4 to 9 p.m. and includes the nightly Changing of the Guard Ceremony at 6:15 p.m. Admission is free.

“There will be several fresh produce stands as well as a variety of other booths that will appeal to our visitors,” says Sheryl Siu, director of retail operations at Hyatt Regency Waikiki Beach Resort and Spa.

“Many of our King’s Village merchants are excited to be involved in something that combines a display of our Hawaiian culture with a traditional farmers’ market,” adds Siu.

Organizers expect to introduce locals and visitors to a unique shopping adventure by hosting the Farmers’ Market in the late afternoon – a time reserved for the King’s Guard who perform the Changing of the Guard Ceremony nightly in the Village. By combining the two activities, the event offers many an authentic cultural experience.

King’s Village Shopping Center is open daily from 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. For more information about the Farmers’ Market, please call Hyatt Regency Waikiki Beach Resort and Spa at (808) 237-6340, or visit King’s Village Shopping Center online at www.kings-village.com

The luxury Fairmont Orchid, Hawaii – a AAA Four Diamond resort located on the Kohala Coast of the Island of Hawaii is delighted to announce the opening of Hale Kai Restaurant.

The Hale Kai Restaurant offers a family friendly, toes-in-the sand dining experience located just steps from the shoreline.

With a menu featuring ‘Ohana’ (Family) Plates of Grilled Shoyu Flank Steak, Kona Brew Battered Fresh Fish, and Jumbo Crab Cake served with Family Style Edamame and Green Papaya Slaw; this new beachside dining experience is perfect for value-seeking families.

“Our goal is to enhance our guests’ oceanfront dining experience, which is one of the main reasons for the installation of dining palapas,” explains Sean Hubbard, Director of Food and Beverage. “Hale Kai Restaurant embodies the warmth of aloha featuring dishes from all parts of the island.”

Located poolside, Hale Kai Restaurant offers lunch and dinner options ranging from pupus (appetizers) to sandwiches, salads pizzas and burgers. A full service bar featuring an inspired tropical drink menu includes a Hale Kai ‘Tini-a refreshing blend of Malibu rum, fresh pineapple, lime juice, Coco Lopez and a splash of Chambord .

Hale Kai is open daily from 10:00 a.m.-9:00 p.m.

For information on the Hale Kai Restaurant, please contact The Fairmont Orchid, Hawaii at 808-885-2000 or visit www.fairmont.com/orchid

The Fairmont Orchid, Hawaii is a AAA Four Diamond destination resort on 32 oceanfront acres offering 540 guestrooms on the island’s northwestern coast.

Facilities and services include the Hawaiian-inspired Spa Without Walls with 8 waterfall hale (hut) and 6 oceanside cabanas, authentically local daily beach and cultural activities, golf, tennis and water sports, year-round children’s program, six delectable restaurants and expansive indoor and outdoor meeting facilities all surrounded by service with Aloha.

Ciao Mein and The Colony restaurants in Hyatt Regency Waikiki Beach Resort and Spa, located at 2424 Kalkaua Avenue, are offering a new signature series of wines available from Friday, January 15 through Thursday, April 15, 2010.

The classic varietals from the acclaimed Kenwood Vineyards in Sonoma County, California include the Jack London Vineyard 2005 Merlot ($56 per bottle, $14 per glass), the Jack London Vineyard 30th Anniversary 2006 Cabernet Sauvignon ($72 per bottle, $18 per glass), and the Yulupa Vineyard 2008 Chardonnay ($40 per bottle, $10 per glass).

Founded in 1970, Kenwood Vineyards is recognized for its classic varietals. The wines selected for the yearlong series offered by Hyatt Regency Waikiki Beach Resort and Spa are rich in flavor and complimentary to the award winning cuisine at Hyatt restaurants.

The current signature selections include: a robust 2005 Merlot with an abundance of full-bodied flavor, a zesty yet sweet Cabernet Sauvignon, and a refreshing 2008 Chardonnay that offers hints of sage and mint.

For more information, please visit Kenwood Vineyards

Ciao Mein and The Colony restaurants are open from 6 to 10 p.m., daily. For more information, please call (808) 923-CIAO (2426) or (808) 237-6140.

Mahaulepu Beach is one of the best beaches found on Kauai. If you are looking to get away from the crowds, there’s no place better than the unspoiled and rugged beauty of Mahaulepu beach.

Located on the south side of Kauai, Mahaulepu Beach is one of the best-undeveloped coastal regions anywhere on the Hawaiian Islands.

Mahaulepu is a place of beautiful heritage. The undeveloped coast is a habitat for rare and endangered plants and animals.

The surrounding land is quite sacred to the native peoples of Hawaii, who harbor ancestral ties and influential cultural traditions. Native Hawaiians continue their cultural ties including fishing and gathering.

On the western side of the beach, the waters are sometimes calm and good for swimming and snorkeling. But watch for the strong currents that often occur.

It can be quite windy. Even experienced surfers need to be aware of the ocean and weather conditions.

Take time to explore the miles of pristine coastline, and take in the untouched beauty. Stroll along the soft, white sand and enjoy the deep blue waters of the Pacific Ocean.

Access to Mahaulepu Beach is from private land. You may also be asked to sign in and produce identification.

Ciao Mein Restaurant, on the third floor of Hyatt Regency Waikiki Beach Resort and Spa located at 2424 Kalakau Avenue is presenting an elegant pairing of flavors for the New Year.

The special features an array of gourmet delicacies that include: drunken prawns with whole abalone, shark fin soup with Alaskan crabmeat and cured ham, wok seared lobster with sugar snap beans and toasted macadamia nut, open fire grilled filet of beef with foie gras garnish and a chianti reduction, grilled asparagus with extra virgin olive oil and poached egg, aborio risotto with truffles and scallops, and a tasting of panna cotta.

The exclusive menu is $125 per person and is available December 31, 2009 through January 3, 2010.

The skillful balance of authentic Chinese and Italian dishes, which is the trademark of excellence of the award-winning Ciao Mein Restaurant, is evident in the newest selection from Chef Jeff Wind and his team.

Every morsel offers a subtle fusion of the quality ingredients from two cultures that are renowned for their influence upon the world of fine food.

Connoisseurs in small or large groups will enjoy the quiet ambiance of Ciao Mein where east and west come together to provide for the perfect retreat from the everyday.

Guests are also invited to join the New Year’s Eve celebration with fireworks on December 31 from 9 p.m. to 1 a.m. on the poolside terrace.

Ciao Mein is open from 6:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m., daily. For more information or to make a reservation, please call (808) 923-CIAO (2426).