Island of Hawai‘i Visitors Bureau Media Contact:
Sydney Siu, (808) 829-0963, Sydney.Siu@FinnPartners.com 

Island of Hawai‘i (June 2, 2025) — The island of Hawai‘i’s many cultures thrive through traditions and practices rooted in ‘ike (knowledge) passed down over generations. From outrigger canoe paddling events and culture-celebrating gatherings to native plant reforestation and preservation efforts and hands-on workshops on everything from hula and lei making, visitors have so many opportunities to engage with the island’s multicultural heritage. The experiences we’ve gathered below offer exciting ways to learn about and connect with Hawai’i Island through its people, places, events and activities.

ACTIVITIES AND ATTRACTIONS

Kona Boys offers two distinct ways to experience the cultural and natural beauty of Hawai‘i Island’s Kona Coast. Its outrigger canoe rides launch from Kamakahonu in Historic Kailua Village and explore the waters of Kailua Bay, immersing guests in the traditions of Hawaiian navigation and storytelling. Meanwhile, their kayak and snorkel tours explore the pristine Kealakekua Bay, with certified guides sharing knowledge of the area’s Hawaiian cultural history and marine life. Guides receive ongoing cultural training in sharing narratives and traditions that are accurate and respectful of Hawaiian culture. Learn more at www.konaboys.com.

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Photo Credit: Kona Boys

Immerse yourself in Hawaiian culture and science at ʻImiloa Astronomy Center in Hilo. Spotlighting interactive exhibits, high-definition planetarium shows and wayfinding displays, ʻImiloa invites visitors of all ages to explore the connections between earth and sky through a uniquely Hawaiian cultural lens. General admission and membership options are available year-round. If you’re in Hilo this fall, don’t miss the traveling Loko Iʻa exhibit highlighting Hawaiian fishpond systems and resource management innovations. Learn more at www.imiloahawaii.org.

Link to Images: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1ScMLhryQ4DYBdbbjdN2uJB6EX4wRNLSL/view 
Photo Credit: ʻImiloa Astronomy Center

Hilo’s beloved and historic Palace Theater is celebrating its 100^th birthday this year! In honor of its centennial, the theater is presenting a diverse slate of programs for Hawai‘i Island residents and visitors to enjoy, including films, musical theater, live concerts and more. Managed by the Friends of the Palace Theater, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, the theater is currently raising money to restore its auditorium and repair holes in its ceiling. Purchase a ticket to an upcoming event or make a tax-deductible donation at www.hilopalace.com.

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Photo Credit: Phillips Payson at Hilo Palace Theater

Hawaiian Adventures Kona offers whale watching year-round on the Kona Coast, with tours encountering more than a dozen species of resident whales and dolphins. Its three- to four-hour tours explore both inshore and deep-water pelagic zones. Passengers enjoy the comfort on the company’s offshore-certified 46-foot catamaran Artemis, along with marine naturalists and marine life off the Kona Coast. All dolphin- and whale-watching tours depart at Honokōhau Harbor. Visit www.hawaiianadventureskona.com for more information.

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Photo credit: Hawaiian Adventures Kona

Hawaii Forest & Trail’s Maunakea Summit and Stars Giveback Experience, led by interpretive guides, begins at the endangered Waikōloa Dry Forest Reserve. Guests help give back to the area by collecting native seeds, which contribute toward preserving the dry forest for future generations. The journey continues to Maunakea for a warm picnic dinner before heading to the volcano’s 13,803-foot-elevation summit for an awe-inspiring sunset. Cap off the evening with private stargazing beneath the world-class clarity of the island’s night sky, all while sipping hot chocolate as your guide points out constellations and planets, and shares how Native Hawaiians used the stars for navigation. Learn more at https://hawaii-forest.com/tours/maunakea-summit-stars-give-back-experience/ or call 808-331-8505.

Link to Images: https://hawaii-forest.smugmug.com/Hawaii-Forest-MK-Giveback-2025 
Wiliwili Tree – Photo credit: Andrew Hara

TASTY TIDBITS

Discover the art of traditional Hawaiian cooking with Imu Mea ʻAi, a community-driven experience guided by Iopa Maunakea and the nonprofit Men of PAʻA. Visitors take part in building an imu (underground oven), preparing local foods and learning the values of mālama ʻāina (caring for the land). The immersive experience aims to foster deeper cultural understanding, support regenerative and responsible tourism on Hawaiʻi Island, and allows visitors an opportunity to give back to the land while connecting with culture. Learn more or book the experience at imumeaai.com.

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Photo credit: Men of PAʻA

Fairmont Orchid, a luxury resort, recently announced the appointment of Zaid Khan as its new executive chef. Chef Khan leads creative and strategic initiatives for the resort’s six restaurants and hotel-wide events with a passion for sustainable dining and commitment to supporting local farms and fishermen. For more information, visit https://www.fairmontorchid.com/.

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Photo credit: Fairmont Orchid

The Feast and Fire Lū‘au at OUTRIGGER Kona Resort & Spa offers a cultural celebration set alongside historic Keauhou Bay. Curated by Traditions Hawai‘i, the evening features hula, music and storytelling paired with an island-inspired buffet and artisan village offering hands-on cultural activities. The Feast and Fire Lū‘au aims to honor the legacy of Hawai‘i’s ali‘i (royalty) and the birthplace of Kamehameha III. New for this summer, the Feast and Fire Lū‘au package includes a resort stay and two complimentary lū‘au tickets. Book the Feast and Fire Hotel Stay package at www.outrigger.com/offers/okr/luau-package.

Link to Images: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1aCrzA2JcvBWHfa63c8hxqjsawsilPIew 
Photo credit: OUTRIGGER Kona Resort & Spa

ACCOMMODATIONS

As part of its 60^th anniversary celebration, Mauna Kea Beach Hotel is unveiling a major restoration initiative to preserve its celebrated Rockefeller-commissioned art collection. In partnership with Hawai‘i art specialists at Island Eclectic, the project will safeguard over 550 culturally significant pieces, including Hawaiian quilts, kapa (tree-bark cloth) and Pacific Rim antiques. To enrich guest experiences of the artworks, the hotel recently launched a web-based art app offering a self-guided, immersive tour deepening understanding of the collection’s historical and cultural value. For more information, visit www.maunakearesort.com.

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Photo credit: Mauna Kea Resort

On a visit to Hale ‘I‘ike, the Mauna Lani resort’s House of Knowledge and living cultural center, visitors can engage with its Living Culture Hui (group), listen to stories of Hawaiian royalty and celestial navigators, craft their own lei, and take in Hawai‘i history, art and tradition. Learn more at https://aubergeresorts.com/maunalani/experiences/hawaiian-cultural-workshops/.

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Photo Credit: Mauna Lani, Auberge Resorts Collection

Four Seasons Resort Hualalai’s team of on-site marine biologists offer an array of experiences at the resort’s Kumu Kai Marine Center, located steps from the property’s 1.8-million-gallon swimmable aquarium, King’s Pond. Guests of all ages are welcome to the marine center to learn about the more than 1,000 tropical fish — all of which were rescued — now living in King’s Pond, including resident spotted eagle ray. The marine center team also hosts educational programming focused on sustainability, marine education, ocean conservation and the diverse ecology of the resort. Immersive experiences include Touch Tank Talks, Private Eagle Ray Feedings, Snorkel Safaris, Tide Pool Tours, Jr. Marine Biologist Experiences and more. Learn more at www.fourseasons.com/hualalai/.  

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Photo credit: Four Seasons Resort Hualalai

Learn about the rich history and vibrant culture of Hawai‘i Island on one of the Cultural Walking Tours offered by Waikoloa Beach Marriott Resort & Spa. Led by knowledgeable guides, walking tours are hosted every Tuesday and Friday morning, allowing guests the opportunity to explore ancient Hawaiian fishponds, centuries-old petroglyphs and the remnants of a historic fishing village. The tour also shares the stories of ‘Anaeho‘omalu Bay, highlighting the cultural significance of the area. Book your stay at waikoloabeachmarriott.com.

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Photo credit: Waikoloa Beach Marriott Resort & Spa

Guests of Kona Village, a Rosewood Resort this summer are invited to learn about Hawai‘i’s rich heritage with resort-curated experiences, including jewelry-making workshops inspired by island traditions and stargazing and sky-exploring evenings paired with s’mores. Island Roots, the resort’s signature communal dining experience, fosters connection over meals celebrating local flavors. Learn more at www.rosewoodhotels.com/en/kona-village.

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Sailing Canoe – Photo credit: Aaron Bengochea
Making S'mores – Photo credit: Brooklyn Hawaii

OUTRIGGER Kona Resort & Spa’s renovated Aloha Cultural Center offers a lineup of cultural activities immersing guests in the history and heritage of Hawai‘i and Keauhou Bay. Daily offerings include lei making, hula lessons, ʻukulele classes and Hawaiian-language workshops led by cultural practitioners. Guests can also join walking tours of Kaukulaelae and participate in storytelling sessions with kumu Keala Ching. With Keauhou Bay as scenic backdrop, the experiences allow visitors to connect with Hawaiian culture and create memories. A full schedule of daily guest activities is available at www.outrigger.com/hawaii/hawaii-big-island/outrigger-kona-resort-and-spa/activities.

Four Seasons Resort Hualalai is home to the Ka‘ūpūlehu Cultural Center. Designed to offer immersive and educational experiences for the entire family. The center’s series of programs welcomes guests to embark on a journey into Hawai‘i’s vibrant traditions and captivating history. Activities include ‘ukulele lessons, feather-art crafting, lei making, ‘ōlelo Hawai‘i (Hawaiian language) classes, hula lessons and more. Activities are offered daily and complimentary to resort guests. Learn more at www.fourseasons.com/hualalai/.

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Photo credit: Four Seasons Resort Hualalai

Hilton Waikoloa Village is excited to introduce new programming for the summer. Guests can enjoy special recreation packages like the resort’s S’mores Package, featuring time beside a cozy fire pit at Buddha Point and a s’mores kit for up to four people. The Sunset Package offers an elegant evening with a choice of white, red or sparkling wine presented in a souvenir insulated wine bag and complemented by souvenir acrylic lighted champagne flutes or wine glasses for two. Guests are also invited to experience Saturday Summer Pool Parties at Kona Pool, featuring a DJ, games, trivia contests, prizes and exclusive food and beverage specials. For more information and reservations, visit www.HiltonWaikoloaVillage.com. 

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Photo credit: Hilton Waikoloa Village

UPCOMING EVENTS

Honoring the legacy of the now-gone Waiki‘i Music Festival, the Kaulana Group is presenting its inaugural Waikoloa Music and Cultural Festival, happening Father’s Day weekend, June 14 and 15, at the Waikoloa Bowl at Waikoloa Beach Resort. Nani Lim Yap and Margo Mau Bunnell are teaming to honor the Waiki‘i Music Festival with the launch of this new event, featuring live performances, food and refreshments, cultural experiences and a vibrant marketplace celebrating the community. Visit www.waikoloamusicculturalfestival.com/ for more information.

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Photo Credit: Waikoloa Music & Cultural Festival

The Parker Ranch Annual 4^th of July Rodeo and Horse Races is a long-standing Waimea town tradition celebrating the community and commemorating its ranching culture and way of life. Held each Fourth of July holiday, the rodeo promotes camaraderie and friendly competition among several Hawaiʻi Island ranches, showcasing skills that made paniolo (Hawaiian cowboys) famous throughout the world. Modern-day paniolo compete in multiple events, including horse racing, ranch mugging, team roping and po‘o wai u (a paniolo steer-capturing technique). Attendees enjoy crafts and food from local vendors and keiki (kids) activities, including a petting zoo. Learn more at ParkerRanch.com.

Adopt a rubber duckie and cheer it on at the Great Waikoloa Rubber Duckie Race, a benefit for the United Cerebral Palsy Association of Hawai‘i. Join the fun on July 4 as 10,000 bathtub duckies race to victory. Prizes will be awarded to the first 50 finishers, and even the last-place duckie wins a prize. Additional race events include live entertainment, free keiki (kids) activities, merchant offers and more. Learn more at UnitedCerebralPalsyHawaii.org.

Join Volcano’s ʻŌhiʻa Lehua Runs on July 26 for a scenic race through a beautiful ʻōhiʻa forest with scenic views of Maunakea and Maunaloa volcanoes. Participating runners choose between the event’s half-marathon or 5K courses. Learn more at OhiaLehuaHalf.com.

The Experience Volcano Festival is a celebration of the culture, people and traditions of the Volcano Village area of Hawai‘i Island. Check out the festival on July 26 & 27 for a sampling of Volcano Village offerings, including live music and art, cultural activities and demonstrations, tours, keiki (kids) and ‘ohana (family) activities, happy hours, restaurant specials, food trucks and more. For more information, visit www.experiencevolcano.com/.

Pūʻukoholā Heiau National Historic Site will celebrate its 53^rd anniversary on August 16 and 17 alongside its annual Establishment Day Hawaiian cultural festival, Hoʻokuʻikahi Pu‘ukoholā, which means “to unify at Pu‘ukoholā” in ‘ōlelo Hawai‘i (Hawaiian language). Festivities will include a hoʻokupu (gift giving) ceremony, workshops and demonstrations showcasing traditional Hawaiian arts, crafts and more. Learn more at NPS.gov/PuHe.

The Queen Liliʻuokalani Canoe Race was founded in 1972 as a training event for the grueling Nā Wāhine o Ke Kai women’s and Molokaʻi Hoe men’s long-distance canoe races from Molokaʻi to Oʻahu. This year’s race, set for August 28 to September 1, will welcome paddlers from around the globe to compete in the world’s largest long-distance outrigger canoe race. Other event activities and highlights include a Historic Kailua Village cultural walk and tour of Hulihe‘e Palace, the Queen Lili‘uokalani Cultural Fair, arts and crafts vendors, food booths, an event blessing and a torch-light parade. Learn more at QLCanoeRace.com.

The Kona Pride Festival is set for September 12 through 14, hosted by Kona Pride Inc., a nonprofit organization seeking to enhance the visibility of the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer (LGBTQ) and allied communities. The annual festival promotes LGBTQ awareness, equality and support with a variety of events and activities. Learn more at KonaPride.com.

The Kaʻū Coffee Trail Run will celebrate its tenth year on September 20, offering a course for everyone from keiki (children) to kūpuna (elders) winding the unpaved trails of the island of Hawai‘i town of Pāhala. Participating runners race through 1,900 acres of coffee fields and macadamia nut groves at the Kaʻū Coffee Mill and can choose courses ranging from a 50K run and half marathon, to 10K and 5K distance runs. Learn more at KauCoffeeTrailRuns.com.