FALL FOR ADVENTURE TRAVEL ON THE ISLAND OF HAWAIʻI
FALL FOR ADVENTURE TRAVEL ON THE ISLAND OF HAWAIʻI
Island of Hawai‘i Visitors Bureau Media Contact:
Cheyenne Gomez, (808) 539-3409, [email protected]
Island of Hawai‘i (August 12, 2024) — Traveling to the island of Hawai‘i for adventure this fall promises many choices for exhilarating outdoor exploration, cultural immersion and delicious food experiences. Adventurers can bike through Hawai‘i Island’s natural beauty to waterfalls, snorkel the crystalline waters of the Kohala Coast, and even take a stirring helicopter ride above breathtaking landscapes, including volcanoes and emerald rainforests. The fall season also brings with it a host of popular Hawai‘i Island festivals and events, including the Kona Coffee Cultural Festival and Hawai‘i Food and Wine Festival, where visitors can experience local culture, entertainment and cuisine. Whatever you choose to do and explore within its inspiring landscapes, towns and places of history and interest, the island of Hawai‘i offers an invigorating and enriching adventures and experiences this fall. Read on to discover more about them all.
ACTIVITIES AND ATTRACTIONS
The Umauma Experience’s all-new E-Bike Culture and Swim Tour immerses guests in Hawai‘i Island's natural beauty as they pedal e-bikes through beautiful landscapes and vistas, including the property’s triple-tier waterfall. The company’s knowledgeable guides lead guests on a narrated journey sharing information on Hawai‘i trees, plants and culture. At a traditional hale (house), guests learn about the importance of kalo (taro) to the Hawaiian diet, the medicinal uses of kukui (candlenut) and the resourcefulness of the niu (coconut). For more information or reservations, visit https://umaumaexperience.com/ or call (808) 930-9477.
Link to Images: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/179Zzk9O2sOs9-Krn8gaVD2BQpLsKuPFZ
Photo Credit: The Umauma Experience
OUTRIGGER Kona Resort & Spa recently introduced its new Under the New Moon Series, a free, family-friendly evening learning about and honoring Hawaiian ali‘i (chiefs). The event offers live music, cultural performances and workshops led by Native Hawaiian cultural practitioner and kumu hula (hula teacher) Keala Ching and his hālau hula (hula school), Nā Wai ‘Iwi Ola. Held monthly, the event is open to the public and begins at 5 p.m. on the resort’s Bayview Lawn. For more information, visit https://www.outrigger.com/hawaii/hawaii-big-island/outrigger-kona-resort-and-spa.
Link to Images: https://app.box.com/s/e72owj1rwx1hwbkgtyr28z5cqh8i2bz5
Photo Credit: OUTRIGGER Kona Resort & Spa
In partnership with Kuleana Rum Works, the Four Seasons Resort Hualālai’s new Hualālai Rum Farm Tour offers guests of the resort an opportunity to visit the island of Hawai‘i-based rum producer’s farm and distillery to learn about its 40 varieties of Hawaiian heirloom sugar cane and the storied history of sugarcane in Hawai‘i. Also part of the collaboration with Kuleana Rum Works, the resort’s signature Hui Hui Hualālai Blend was developed for sipping and mixing cocktails, with flavors highlighting fruity and earthy notes. For more information or reservations, visit www.fourseasons.com/hualalai or call (808) 325-8000.
Celebrate Aloha Fridays with Sip and Lei at Fairmont Orchid. You’ll learn the art of crafting a fresh lei with the resort’s director of Hawaiian culture, Kaʻiulani Blankenfeld, while enjoying two crafted mai tais on the lānai (porch) of the Luana Lounge. This recurring activity is for adults ages 21 and older only, is open to the public and costs $50-plus per person.
Link to Images: https://www.amazon.com/photos/shared/5q5S6zcQQoq86kfwCz-MGg.IBQONk-bTSXjELEHbGcKPq
Photo Credit: Fairmont Orchid
Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park’s Kīlauea Visitor Center (KVC) and its adjacent parking lot will close for construction this fall, possibly as early as September. After Dark in the Park, Nā Leo Manu and other park programs will be temporarily suspended once KVC closes. During the closure, KVC’s interior will be rehabilitated, new exhibits will be installed, its restrooms will be rebuilt, and its lānai (porch) will be replaced by an expanded covered hālau (long house). The Hawaiʻi Pacific Parks Association store and limited visitor services will relocate to a temporary visitor contact station adjacent to the historic ball field at nearby Kīlauea Military Camp. Volcano House hotel and the Volcano Art Center gallery will remain open during the project. For more information, visit https://www.nps.gov/havo/learn/news/20240625-nr-kvc-temp-closure.htm.
Hawai‘i Island macadamia nut producer Mauna Loa has brought the unique taste of macadamias to the world since 1946. At its Mauna Loa Visitor Center, just outside of Hilo on the island’s east side, guests are invited to sample longtime Mauna Loa macadamia nut flavors and products, including sea salt and garlic onion, as well as newer products like macadamia milk ice cream. Visitors can also enjoy a nature walk, read about the history of Hawai‘i’s macadamia industry and pick up Mauna Loa merchandise and local-crafted goods from Mana Up Hawaiʻi. For more information, visit Mauna Loa Visitor Center’s website.
Link to Images: https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fo/ljo4g3k3aa6gmltcqn372/AEfH7n88Sof6sDNmWpPwfVY?rlkey=1yt7jeefo7tlkhnvjreo1md7c&e=1&st=vynrxhus&dl=0
Photo Credit: Mauna Loa
Greenwell Farms offers complimentary tours of its vertically integrated, seed-to-cup farm operation in Kealakekua daily from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Guests on the tour journey into the history, biodiversity and sustainable farm practices of modern-day coffee farming. Since 1850, Greenwell Farms has continuously strived for a legacy of quality and care for its land in everything it does, producing some of Hawai‘i’s most award-winning coffees. For more information, visit https://www.greenwellfarms.com/.
Link to Images: https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/vk4e5n8qu0jzh6qxc7dwv/GFI-Sunset.jpg?rlkey=vyhb7pfg7dqykyv15qc2zjys3&e=1&st=15gyu7i2&dl=0
Photo Credit: Greenwell Farms
Hawaii Forest & Trail is proud to be one of the first companies recognized by Qurator, the Hawai‘i Tourism Authority’s new responsible-tourism certification program. The activity company qualified for all categories and was among the top scorers for cultural support, safety and environment. From exploring active volcanoes, swimming beneath waterfalls, and witnessing the stunning sunsets and night skies of Maunakea, to discovering rare and endangered native species while birdwatching, Hawaii Forest & Trail offers lots of experiences for adventure enthusiasts. Visit https://hawaii-forest.com/ or call (808) 331-8505.
Link to Images: https://www.smugmug.com/gallery/n-m7s6Qp/i-2mVR9F5/A and https://www.smugmug.com/gallery/n-m7s6Qp/i-fKNrrmv/A
Photo Credit: Andrew Richard Hara
Set out for the ocean this fall with Hawaii Nautical on its Spirit of Aloha sunset sail for a snorkel and sail adventure along the gorgeous Kona coast. The tour explores the island of Hawai‘i’s stunning underwater world, showcasing crystal-clear waters, vibrant marine life and breathtaking coral reefs. The vessel offers on-board amenities and spacious decks, and guests enjoy a picnic lunch and beverages. For more information or reservations, visit www.hawaiinautical.com.
Link to Images: https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fo/kh4uqzl47uvg2kfjcadvk/h?rlkey=z7zld8q1nbqj8xby1oridwmr2&e=2&st=0feptbof&dl=0
Photo Credit: Hawaii Nautical
Kona Salt Farm invites IRONMAN Championship triathletes to visit for pre-race preparation and post-race recovery. The farm is spotlighting its naturally made deep-ocean magnesium spa baths and magnesium drops, crafted to help athletes overcome travel fatigue, stress, sleep issues and cramping. Athletes can also enjoy invigorating 47 F cold deep ocean water foot soaks in the farm’s ocean-view cabana. From October 20 through 30, guests can enjoy 10% off all magnesium, salt and foot soaks, with proceeds supporting the Ironman Foundation, which benefits racing communities. For more information, visit https://konaseasalt.com/pages/kona-sea-salt-farm-tours.
Link to Images: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1yMIaz1MDuuy2Xydr1s01bSfNtNkDKU4O/view
Photo Credit: Kona Salt Farm
Discover the beauty of Hawai‘i Island from above with Mauna Loa Helicopter Tours, a local-run small business offering private aerial adventures. On tours this fall, experience breathtaking views of the island’s diverse landscapes — from volcanic craters to lush rainforests and more — on tours designed for all adventure seekers. For more information or to book a tour, visit https://maunaloahelicoptertours.com/.
Link to Images: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1TjtFFvABuHli519Xa7h895MiM7BazLYJ/view
Photo Credit: Aria Kaneshige
Come and join Mauna Lani on its Canoe Snorkel Beyond the Reef tour, offered daily at 8 and 10 a.m. After grabbing your gear in front of the resort’s Surf Shack, talk story with Mauna Lani’s Kainalu Ocean Sports pro guides as their outrigger canoe takes you out to sea. After dropping anchor, you can watch yellow tangs from the ocean surface or catch the sight of honu (Hawaiian green sea turtles) and octopi as they maneuver underwater through intricate reef formations. For more information, visit https://aubergeresorts.com/maunalani/.
Link to Images: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1UbKniYSsLkA40D1Qf51OvxIJO7qfJRgX/view
Photo Credit: Mauna Lani
UPCOMING EVENTS
The second annual Culinary Classic is set for Mauna Lani over the Labor Day Weekend from August 28-September 2, featuring 10 dining experiences ranging from intimate omakase-style dinners and chef demos to wine tastings and mixology classes. A kick-off lūʻau on the Culinary Classic’s first night will spotlight local chefs Allen Hess and Brian Hirata, live entertainment and a silent auction benefiting Mauna Lani’s community partners at Mālaʻai: The Culinary Garden of Waimea Middle School. On Friday, the event’s second night, Chefs on the Beach will take over Mauna Lani’s oceanfront and lawn with festival-style tastings and passed appetizers from celebrity chefs Andrew Zimmern, Lee Anne Wong and Robynne Maii, Blue Ribbon Sushi and more, with live music. Saturday’s main event will be a multicourse tasting at the resort’s CanoeHouse restaurant with chefs Nancy Silverton, Jose Garces, Jonathan Waxman and more. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit https://aubergeresorts.com/maunalani/culinary-classic.
Link to Images: https://drive.google.com/file/d/12pq_ELxisQaUYTIxi2OzvMSpLMDQdR6i/view and https://drive.google.com/file/d/1Wtu7-LktI5CsZ9opQVlesLmKk_j4wplc/view
Photo Credit: Mauna Lani
OUTRIGGER Kona Resort & Spa and the Manta Pacific Research Foundation will host World Manta Day on September 14, from noon to 7 p.m. The celebratory festival is free for all to attend and includes a marine conservation expo, informative talks about manta rays and the marine environment by local and international experts, and the premiere screening of a new manta ray documentary created for Big Island TV. For more information, visit Activities and Experiences at OUTRIGGER Kona Resort & Spa.
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Photo Credit: OUTRIGGER Kona Resort & Spa
The Aloha Festivals on the island of Hawai‘i proudly presents the 2024 Paniolo Festival: Nā Paniolo Hoʻohanohano “Grand are the Cowboys”. This is a celebration of Hawai‘i’s deep-rooted cowboy heritage, scheduled for September 21 in the charming town of Waimea. This event is a vibrant tribute to the paniolo or Hawaiian cowboys, and offers a unique window into the rich culture and history. The festival will feature a lively parade, cook-offs, a petting zoo, and much more. For more information and updates, please visit their website at https://www.alohafestivalsislandofhawaii.com/paniolo-festival.
OUTRIGGER Kona Resort & Spa and the Kī Hō‘alu Foundation will host the 27th annual Hawaiian Slack Key Guitar Festival — Kona Style on October 13, from 1 to 5 p.m. Blending local music and culture, the festival will present live performances by more than a dozen of Hawai‘i’s top kī hō‘alu (slack-key guitar) musicians. Festival tickets are $20 at the door and proceeds benefit the Kī Hō‘alu Foundation. For more information, call (808) 226-2697.
The 14th annual Hawaiʻi Food & Wine Festival (HFWF) returns with an impressive lineup of events this fall at the Mauna Kea Beach Hotel. HFWF 2024’s three-island series of culinary events kicks off on Hawai‘i Island on October 19 with Lucky Dragon, celebrating the strength, wisdom and auspiciousness of the mythical creature through the flavors of Asia. From tastes of China to the delicacies of Japan, and multiple cuisines in between, event participants will enjoy dishes of Asia spotlighting some of Hawaiʻi’s best local ingredients in an evening celebration of Asian American culinary excellence. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit https://hawaiifoodandwinefestival.com/events/lucky-dragon/!
ʻImiloa Astronomy Center, in partnership with Hālau ʻŌhiʻa and ʻOhana Waʻa, will host the ʻIkuwā Festival on October 20, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. The free festival celebrates the vast connections and relationships supporting the Hawaiʻi Island community and its natural resources and landscapes. ʻIkuwā Festival will include live planetarium programs, educational booths, hands-on activities, local food and craft vendors, waʻa (canoe) demonstrations, oli (chant) competitions, live entertainment and more. Bring the ʻohana (family) and friends for a day of exploration at ʻImiloa. For more information, visit https://imiloahawaii.org/.
Link to Images: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1cdXzEHKF-9oS85Cq_pJQvuXeYNVIrdhr
Photo Credit: ‘Imiloa Astronomy Center
The aroma of fresh-brewed coffee is sure to fill the air when the Kona Coffee Cultural Festival kicks off in the heart of Hawai‘i Island’s Kona coffee-growing region November 1 through 10. Celebrating 200 years of tradition and community, the festival also presents the vibrancy of Hawaiian culture through hula, music performances and art exhibitions. Event attendees are encouraged to engage with local coffee farmers, roasters and experts on Kona coffee and its history. Purchase a $5 festival admission button to best enjoy its 10 days of fun and celebrate the legacy of Kona coffee. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit https://konacoffeefest.com/.
Link to Images: https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/w9fe04x1sx5ruhgtjrzhm/20231103-18-41-43.jpg?rlkey=5qqjiyjhcu1ictip8487enapl&e=1&st=f0t5ksxl&dl=0 and https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/girg2ofrwa2hledfvxe4o/UCC-farm-experience.JPG?rlkey=pe0tnx166gfjpvww7kycz0qpz&e=1&st=v9qqzhfq&dl=0
Photo Credit: Kona Coffee Cultural Festival
TASTY TIDBITS
Waikoloa Italian restaurant Pueo’s Osteria recently launched its new Early Owl and Bar Menu featuring classic and modern Italian antipasti, entrees and cocktails, and the return of its Tuscan Burger. Chef James Babian’s spin on the classic American burger is crafted with local grass-fed beef and topped with Waimea lettuce, bruschetta tomato and balsamic onion, with a brioche bun, pickled skewer and Tuscan fries. In addition to the new menus, Pueo’s Osteria has expanded its hours with dinner and bar bites beginning at 4:30 p.m. For more information or reservations, visit www.pueososteria.com.
Link to Images: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1joKS2qlHKuqmtUdoLJNNolKeN6bRKa5N/view
Photo Credit: Pueo’s Osteria
Located in the OUTRIGGER Kona Resort & Spa, Piko Coffee and Wine Bar is a provisions market serving Ka‘ū-grown coffee by day and transforming into a wine café and bar by night. Piko offers full breakfast and dinner menus alongside more than 35 wines sourced from California, France, Italy and New Zealand. Piko also serves coffee from White Nene Coffee Roasters, located in nearby Hōlualoa. In addition, Piko offers 100% Kona Coffee, a custom blend by Big Island Coffee Roasters and specialty coffee drinks like the Mauka Fog, a twist on the traditional London Fog, and Pele’s Mocha, which utilizes local-grown Hawai‘i chilies. Piko is open from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily and features live music nightly. For more information, visit https://www.outrigger.com/hawaii/hawaii-big-island/outrigger-kona-resort-and-spa/food-drink/piko.
Link to Images: https://app.box.com/s/e72owj1rwx1hwbkgtyr28z5cqh8i2bz5
Photo Credit: OUTRIGGER Kona Resort & Spa
ACCOMMODATIONS
OUTRIGGER Kona Resort & Spa recently completed a $60 million renovation of its 22-acre resort and is ready to welcome guests. Perched on the cliffs of Keauhou Bay, with ocean views of the Kona coast, the resort shares the history of Keauhou throughout its transformed property. Its revitalized 511 guest rooms and suites and meeting spaces blend the property’s heritage and reverence for voyaging with modern aesthetics. For more information, visit https://www.outrigger.com/hawaii/hawaii-big-island/outrigger-kona-resort-and-spa.
Link to Images: https://app.box.com/s/e72owj1rwx1hwbkgtyr28z5cqh8i2bz5
Photo Credit: OUTRIGGER Kona Resort & Spa
Kilauea Lodge invites you to plan a getaway with friends and family for any occasion this fall. Now through September 30, book one night and receive one night free any day of the week. Use the promo code BOGONOW when booking. The offer may not be combined with any other offer, is valid with new reservations only and may not be applied to existing reservations. Black-out dates apply. Restrictions may also apply. The offer is based on availability. For more information or reservations, visit https://www.kilauealodge.com/ or call 808-967-7366 ext. 2.
Sitting on 13 beachfront acres adjacent to Kailua Pier, the Courtyard by King Kamehameha’s Kona Beach Resort offers guests direct access to the ocean and activities such as submarine tours with Atlantis Adventures, diving 100 feet below the ocean surface to experience Kona’s marine life, or exploring the bay with rentals from Kona Boys. Among the rental choices are stand-up paddle boards, kayaks, snorkeling equipment and more. After sunset, guests can head out with a guide to the Manta Ray Village for late night snorkeling with magnificent hāhālua (manta rays) then end the evening with a hot beverage and sweet treat under the night sky or join UFO Parasailing for bird’s eye views of Hawai‘i Island from 1,200 feet above the Kona Coast. For more information, call (808) 329-2911 or visit www.konabeachresort.com.
Link to Images: here and here
Photo Credit: King Kamehameha’s Kona Beach Resort