A beautiful rainbow over the Oahu skyline. (Photo: Getty Images) There are many ways to see the island of Oʻahu—take a guided tour, hitch a ride on a helicopter, or explore the coast by boat.  These are all exciting options, but we prefer sightseeing by car. The reason?  Well, you choose the route, you can linger as long as you want, and you can eat and shop along the way. The island of Oʻahu is just the right size for taking a drive. It’s large enough that you will not run out of things to do and sights to see yet small enough that you can complete the drive in one day. Chances ar ..read more

MATTHEW THAYER / THE MAUI NEWS VIA AP The Honolulu Star-Advertiser extends a heartfelt invitation to join us in offering kokua to our Maui neighbors. Visit this link to donate. 100% of your contributions will go to the Hawaii Community Foundation Maui Strong Fund. Donate to the Maui Strong Fund The search of the wildfire wreckage on Maui today revealed a wasteland of burned-out homes and obliterated communities as firefighters battled the stubborn blaze that has already claimed many lives, making it the deadliest in the U.S. in recent years. Fueled by a dry summer and strong winds from a pas ..read more

Visitors to Hawaii can play a crucial role in protecting humpback whales and contributing to their conservation efforts. By practicing responsible and sustainable behavior, visitors can ensure that their interactions with these majestic creatures do not disturb their natural behaviors or habitats. Here are some ways you can help protect humpback whales in Hawaii: RELATED: How, and Where, to Spot Humpback Whales in Hawaii Choose Responsible Tour Operators When participating in whale-watching tours or any ocean-based activities, opt for tour operators that follow responsible and ethical practi ..read more

Spotting humpback whales in Hawaii can be a thrilling and rewarding experience. As these majestic creatures migrate to the warm waters of the islands during the winter months, there are several effective ways to increase your chances of seeing them up close. Here are some of the best methods for spotting humpback whales in Hawaii: Choose the Ideal Time of Year for Spotting Whales in Hawaii The best time of year to see humpback whales in Hawaii is during the winter months, specifically from December to April. This period coincides with the humpback whales’ annual migration from their feeding gr ..read more

The USS Arizona Memorial at Pearl Harbor. (Photo: Star-Advertiser) In the early morning hours of December 7, 1941, the world was forever changed when the Japanese launched a surprise air attack on the United States at Pearl Harbor Naval Base near Honolulu, Hawaii. Following the assault from hundreds of Japanese fighter planes, nearly 20 American naval vessels and at least 300 airplanes were damaged or destroyed. Far more devastating is the 2,400 American lives lost, including civilians, and another 1,000 wounded, making it one of the most defining moments in U.S. history. In fact, the attack ..read more

Photo: Jamm Aquino / Star-Advertiser Memorial Day offers the chance to honor military personnel who have died while serving in the U.S. Armed Forces. Observed on the final Monday of May each year, Memorial Day is a cherished and time-honored holiday in Hawaii. As such, there are plenty of events held over Memorial Day weekend on Oahu, offering numerous opportunities to show your gratitude and pay your respects. Hawaii Memorial Day Parade The annual Memorial Day Parade kicks off with a memorial ceremony held at Fort DeRussey in Waikiki. A parade then proceeds down Kalakaua Avenue for 1 mile ..read more

Photo courtesy of Nā Lei Aloha Foundation. One thing, among so many, that truly sets Hawaii apart is the Aloha State’s reverence for all things — and people. There are many official observances and traditions among the islands that reveal this beautiful mindset, but perhaps among the most well-known would be the annual Lantern Floating Ceremony. Held annually on Memorial Day, this unique ceremony attracts both visitors and residents alike in order to honor those who have given their lives in service to their country. Throughout this special day, a myriad of both Oahu and neighbor island pub ..read more

Hawaii is the first state in the U.S. to ban the sale of sunscreen containing the coral-harming chemicals oxybenzone and octinoxate, ushering in a new era of reef safe sunscreen. The new law went into effect January 1, 2021, prompting visitors and residents alike to trade in their non-reef-safe sun protection. Why Reef Safe Sunscreen? Conventional sunscreens typically contain chemicals, such as oxybenzone and octinoxate — two ingredients that have been linked to coral bleaching. When coral bleaches, it loses its color and becomes vulnerable to disease. Bleaching places coral under significant ..read more

Kapaa, Kauai. Photo: Harrie B. Hawaiʻi is known for its beautiful landscapes and friendly people, but it’s important to recognize things may not always go as planned – even in paradise. To ensure your vacation is safe and fulfilling, keep these safety tips in mind when out exploring the natural wonders. 1. Ocean and Water Safety Tips Hawaiʻi’s waters are warm and inviting, however nature is also very powerful so remember to pack your common sense along with your sunscreen when enjoying the beautiful ocean. Never swim alone and only swim at lifeguard-protected beaches. Water conditions vary acc ..read more

Fresh Bite makes and creates a variety of bowls, like Chop Lee (left), named after the owner’s mom, which also can come with grass-fed steak. (Photo: Fresh Bite Farm To Beach) When asking children what they want to be when they grow up, some of the top replies are a doctor, princess, pro athlete or movie star. But for Sara Carsia, who’s the chef and co-owner of Fresh Bite Farm to Beach, her answer was always the same: restaurant owner. “I’ve always loved cooking and farm-fresh foods,” says Carsia. “I graduated from college with a degree in nutrition and then moved to Kauai with my now husban ..read more