Sunday, July 18, 2010

Molokai – Hawaiian by Nature

While the rest of Hawai’i grew up, the island of Molokai grew roots. Roads are few and generally empty. The island clings to tradition. Its small population prefers to live by raising crops, catching fish and adhering to the old ways. Molokai isn’t merely a lovely island; it’s the only island for those who want to experience something besides commercial luaus, fancy shops, big resorts and the company of tourists. Instead, discover serenity, empty beaches and untamed outdoor beauty. In short, you’ll experience a place where you can look inward as much as outward. You will also find the Hawaiian culture, which is woven into the fabric of everyday life. Though Molokai isn’t sophisticated when it comes to tourism, it offers a wide range of places to stay and things to do.
For a small island – 40 miles long and 10 miles wide – Molokai possesses awesome natural wonders. Bring enough film for such ancient sites as the enormous temple platform called ‘Ili’ili’opae Heiau and the 58 rock wall fishponds that line the island’s South Shore. The South Shore is sheltered by the largest reef system in the United States.
Molokai also contains areas of unspoiled wilderness. Kamakou Preserve is a mountain forest that’s home to endangered native plants and rare birds.
Along the North Shore, the world’s tallest sea cliffs plunge over 3.000 feet to the crashing surf below.
Western Molokai boasts some of the largest and least visited beaches in the state. The Sheraton Molokai Lodge and Beach Village on the West End is the nearest Molokai gets to a resort area. Get back to nature on the island of Molokai.

Sunday, July 11, 2010

Lanai – Hawaiian Most Exclusive Island

If your idea of an island getaway includes ultra luxury and secluded privacy, the Island of Lanai awaits you. Less than 3.000 people live on this small island. Life revolves around its one charming town, Lanai City, and two deluxe properties, the upcountry Lodge at Koele and the ocean side Manele Bay Hotel. Both consistently win top resort honors. Two stellar golf courses, a spa, fine dining choices, and plenty of outdoor activities and water sports guarantee there’ll be plenty to do until it’s time for high tea in the music room.
Although it remains off the beaten path, Lanai offers an unparalleled range of activities in a setting that takes full advantage of the island’s natural beauty. Enjoy the charm of lawn bowling or some competitive croquet. Reserve a court at the Menele’s tennis center or set out on an equestrian excursion from the stables near the Lodge. Try your hand at sporting clays at one of the country’s best facilities, which also has a 12 station archery range.
Head for a swim at beautiful Hulopo’e Beach, or depart Manele Harbor for a snorkel excursion to the pristine waters off Lanai’s cliff-lined West Coast. Take a stroll through Lanai City and browse the shops that surround the forested town square. Rent a four-wheel drive vehicle and set off on an adventure that can take you to the lunar landscapes of “Garden of the Gods”, the beachcombing pleasures of Swipwreck Beach or the misty, rain forest heights of Lana’ihale. Experience Lanai, it’s not quickly forgotten.