Golf on Hawai’i

When you pack your clubs for vacation, isn’t it nice to know that the golf courses you’ll play will provide a setting and an experience worthy of the effort? In the Islands of Aloha, there’s no question about it.
For a million years clouds poured rain upon jagged volcanic peaks. The rains in turn fed uncounted waterfalls, pounding rock into fertile soil, forming emerald plains that gave birth to some of the finest golf courses on earth. Each is unique and their settings are as memorable as the play. It’s simply a golfer’s paradise.
Among Hawaiian 80 plus courses are some of the most gorgeous holes to swing for. Picture yourself on the first tee box. The low morning sun gives shape to the heavenly green fairway before you. Take a deep breath and pinch yourself. Not even an errant tee shot can break this spell. With the Pacific Ocean over your shoulder, try not to be distracted by a breaching humpback whale. You’ll need all your concentration to make that fast breaking putt.
Golfing is always in season with Hawaiian beautiful year-round weather. Hawaiian courses extend throughout the six major islands, and their terrain is just as varied. From cool tropical valleys to awesome ocean-side lava cliffs, the views are spectacular.
Where better to begin the PGA tour than in Hawai’i. Here the golf gods smile on some of the most beautiful courses in the world. The pros’ season begins with two tournaments in January, the Mercedes Championship on Maui, followed by the Sony Open on Oahu. Win any of golf’s four majors and you’ll be invited to play the last tournament of the year, the PGA Grand Slam on Kauai. The Turtle Bay Championship is played in the beginning of October on Oahu’s gorgeous North Shore. Not to be denied paradise, the PGA Senior Tour kicks off its year with the MasterCard Championship on Hawaiian Big Island, followed by the Senior Skins Game on Maui. Hawaiian Big Island is also home to the LPGA Takefuji Classic.
Prepare to be spoiled. In Hawai’i, a camera should be a required piece of golfing equipment.

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.

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.

Maui – the Magic Isle

Many places claim the power to create memories that will last a lifetime, but few fulfill the promise like the Island of Maui. If its relaxation you’re after, we’ve got it, with near-perfect weather, great places to stay, uncrowned beaches and a setting that inspires awe and a sense of wonder. If you are looking for adventure and new experiences, we’ve got that too. Discover Maui, where whale-filled seas meet heavenly beaches. A place where the sun warms tropical trade winds that will blow your troubles away. Snorkel in crystal-clear waters or play golf on world-class courses of green, velvet perfection. Aloha and welcome t Maui, the Magic Isle.
The ancient Hawaiian chants tell the story of the demigod Maui who harnessed the sun from atop 10.000 foot Haleakala to slow its progress across the heavens. He made the perfect day on his namesake island last just a bit longer.
From that same perch today you can look out over this splendid island to survey its terrain. Along the beach-lined South Coast lie the resorts of Ma’alaea, Kihei, Wailea and Makena, each fronting gentle waters perfect for swimming.
To the east, turn your attention to the forested mountains and countless waterfalls that surround Hana. The road to Hana is a series of hairpin turns and single-lane bridges where you’ll discover breathtaking panoramas around every corner.
On the slopes below Haleakala are the grassy ranchlands and flower farms of upcountry Maui. Sublime views and cooler temperatures prevail here. Upcountry is a state of mind, characterized by large family-owned ranches and Hawaiian cowboys who share the beautiful area with the many artists who’ve settled here in a landscape of endless inspiration.
Looking over the central plains, you spy Maui’s other volcanic mountain, Kahalawai. In its morning shadow you’ll find historic Lahaina and the famous resorts of Ka’anapali, Kahana, Napili and Kapalua. Lahaina was once the royal capital of Hawai’i and later a rowdy whaling port. Today, Front Street retains its old world charm while offering a collection of shops, art galleries, entertainment and restaurants just steps from the waterfront.
Maui’s central valley is anchored by county seat Wailuku at the doorstep of ‘Iao Valley and bustling Kahului. Find local-style eateries in Wailuku along with a collection of antiques shops. Kahului is the commercial center of the island and home to the Maui Arts & Cultural Center and Maui’s largest mall, the Kaahumanu Shopping Center.
It’s hard to imagine a place more relaxing than Maui. But if, as some say, the key to relaxation is activity, few places compare to Maui. On the ground, in the air, on the water, in the water or under the water. Maui is arguably the world’s greatest playground.
Hike trails equal to none, go for a horseback ride, kayak, and snorkel or dive in the pristine waters. Not done playing? Surf made-in –Hawai’i waves or windsurf the tropical trade winds. And always, the beach. Forty-two miles of uncrowned and sublime beaches to be exact. Add tennis, golf, helicopter tours, history, art, nature, shopping, dining, touring and countless cultural attractions and you’ll want to extend your stay.

Kauai – Hawai’i Island of Discovery

Kauai has a lush, rural feel and a laid-back lifestyle all its own. After all, Kauai is Hawai’i oldest island and, as first-born, has a legacy of paradise to uphold. And what a paradise! A trip around Kauai is a feast of green, tropical forests, cascading waterfalls, golden sand beaches and the time of your life. Your circumnavigation will be interrupted by one of the world’s greatest natural wonders, the Na Pali Coast. Don’t be daunted. Take to boat or helicopter to witness its 14 miles of vertical seamounts falling into a necklace of white surf spray. Your heart will skip a beat. Kauai does that to you over and over again.
Nothing prepares you for some of its natural wonders such as the Na Pali Coast, Wailua Falls, Waimea Canyon and the 17 mile Polihale Beach. The landscapes of Kauai have served as locations for more than 50 movies over the years. Ask the friendly people of Kauai and they’ll tell you it’s because there’s no place more beautiful on earth.
Kauai has been around millions of years longer than its sister islands. Time and the elements have created Hawai’i only navigable rivers, carved a deep canyon, tended an amazing feast of flora and set out seemingly endless beaches.
A tour of Kauai might start in the county seat of Lihue, which also gives its name to the airport nearby. Also close is Kalapaki Beach, which offers the best swimming on this part of the island. Driving north along a stretch known as Coconut Coast, you come to the towns of Wailua, Kapa’a and Anahola. This area was settled first and fairly bustles with action. There are plenty of shops, restaurants, accommodations, activities and attractions including many of Kauai’s legendary waterfalls and the Wailua River.
Further up the road, you arrive at the North Shore and the towns of Kilauea, Princeville, Hanalei and Ha’ena. Here, find the world-famous Princeville Resort with its equally famous golf courses and a collection of beaches second to none. At Ha’ena State Park, the road ends at the majestic Na Pali Coast. To explore the other side of the island, turn around and retrace your route. You’re sure to discover any number of interesting things you missed on the ride up.
The drive into South Kauai takes you under a mile long, shady canopy of eucalyptus trees. You emerge into a brightness that will have you reaching for your sunglasses. Welcome to the sunny South Shore. Explore the plantation town of Koloa and the resort area of Po’ipu, with its gentle beaches and popular golf courses.
The West Side of Kauai is further up the road, physically and metaphorically. The towns get smaller, the population thins out and nature imposes in the likes of 3.500 foot deep Waimea Canyon and Koke’e State Park’s 45 miles of hiking trails. A horseback ride into the rusty, cooper canyon will reveal why Mark Twain nicknamed it the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific”. At the end of the road is the Kalalau Valley Lookout where you will be rewarded by one of the most scenic views on the island.
Kauai’s natural beauty is the setting for any vacation activity. There are lots to do, whether you’re the active type or your taste runs to the quiet and contemplative. Kauai’s 154 holes of great golf will keep you joyfully occupied.
If you’re planning a wedding or coming on your honeymoon, you’ll find the perfect marriage of fantasy and reality in one of the most romantic spots you can imagine. For families, there are lots of activities to share like hiking, horseback riding, snorkeling, kayaking, bicycling and picnicking on the beach.
And remember, Hawaii delightful melting pot of cultures serves up a variety of dining menu items that will add to your fun of discovery on Kauai.

Oahu – the Heart of Hawai’i

Come and experience the diversity of an island paradise where cosmopolitan conveniences are surrounded by breathtaking scenery. Envelope yourself in the aloha spirit, a way of life in the islands that will leave you longing to return to Oahu, the island where aloha begins. Follow the aloha to world-famous Waikiki Beach, one of the most popular vacation destinations in the world – with good reason! A short drive out of town in any direction will bring you face to face with uncrowned beaches, natural wonders and beautiful scenery that will have you wondering if you’re on the same island. Escape to Oahu, the island with surprises around every corner.
Search the world, there’s no place like Oahu, an island of endless variety. Just miles outside the vibrant, modern city of Honolulu lie tropical green valley’s little changed in thousands years. Waikiki is one of the most popular beaches anywhere, but again, a few miles down the road you can explore any number of beaches and find few footprints besides your own. Oahu offers the finest in five-star dining and delicious local favorites served from roadside wagons. And a rainbow is a glorious sight whether hanging over a city skyline or a secluded waterfall.
Honolulu is the capital of Hawai’i. There’s a lot of colorful history attending Honolulu’s past and it can be seen everywhere from the incredible collection of artifacts at the Bishop Museum to the ‘Iolani Palace, home to the last reigning monarch, Queen Liliuokalani. A walk through Chinatown provides the flavor of the street life and architecture of the turn of the last century when the Aloha Tower was the tallest building for 2.500 miles.
The best way to appreciate all Oahu has to offer is to get in a car and venture beyond the city limits. Heading east, it’s just a couple of miles to Hawai’i Kai and sheltered Maunalua Bay, a great place for all sorts of water sports. Drive on past Koko Head to Hanauma Bay where thousands of reef fish seem to have no other purpose than to entertain snorkelers.
Makapu’u Point marks the beginning of Oahu’s windward side. Makapu’u Beach is a favorite with experienced boogie boarders. And you can see the island of Molokai in the distance. Next stop is Waimanalo, a quiet, rural town where Oahu really begins to slow down. Join the pace with a long leisurely walk on Waimanalo Beach.
Continue on to Kailua. Two beaches here are worthy of note. Lanikai Beach is popular for swimming, windsurfing and kayaking and two-mile Kailua Beach is a favorite for strolling along its aquamarine waters. If you’ve used up the whole day exploring this far you can head back across the Ko’olau Mountains on the Pali Highway. After you crest the hill, exit at the Nu’uanu Pali Lookout for a bird’s eye view of the windward side.
Driving on up the windward side will take you deeper into rural, forested Oahu. Take it slow; otherwise you’ll miss the charms of the small towns that dot the coast like Kakalu’u, Waikane, Kahana, and Punalu’u. Each has a beach and a general store to explore. La’ie is a little bigger and boasts the first Mormon Temple built outside of the mainland United States. It’s also the home of the Polynesian Cultural Center.
Around the next corner, pass Kahuku Point and you’ve arrived at Oahu’s popular North Shore with its famous surfing beaches. The ride back to Honolulu takes you through sugar and pineapple fields between the Ko’olau and Wai’anae mountain ranges to Pearl Harbor.
Head east again to complete the circle or turn west to explore Oahu’s Leeward Coast and the beaches of Nanakuli and Makaha. Past Kaneana Cave you can hike to Ka’ena Point where the view of the Pacific Ocean is unlimited.
With few stops, it’s possible to finish this tour in a long day. But you’ll want to plan several days to experience all the attractions and activities along the way.

Hawaiian Big Island – Aloha Spoken Here

The spirit and energy of creation surrounds you everywhere on Hawaiian Big Island. Polynesian legend claims the goddess Pele gave volcanic birth to the Islands of Aloha. The Big Island of Hawai’i is her latest and greatest creation. One island. Still warm from its fiery birth. Larger twice than its sisters combined and growing every day as its active volcano, Kilauea, sends new land to a steamy meeting with the ocean 4.000 feet below. Countless waterfalls feeding rain forests of botanical wonder add a fantasy flavor to the landscape. Massive black lava fields hint at the islands’ relative youth. And multitudes of uncrowned beaches let you catch your breath under the watchful eye of a snow-capped mountain. It’s thrilling.
The best way to glimpse Hawaiian Big Island is in small pieces. Each area has its own character, and often a distinct climate. Let’s go for a drive and see what the island has to offer.
Well begin in the island’s capital city of Hilo. Hilo has one stately foot rooted in its plantation past and the other in the present. The rains here have the courtesy to wait mostly for evening and are responsible for the rich greenery that colors everything. Check out the Suisan Fish Auction early each morning down by the bay or the Farmer’s Market on Wednesdays or Saturdays.
The Hamakua Coast starts north of Hilo. Vertical cliffs adorned with wispy waterfalls are broken by a series of deep valleys. At the end of the Hamakua Coast Highway is Waipi’o, the only valley accessible by road, if not by car. Hike in. The beauty is worth every step.
From Waipi’o, drive upland to the cool, country town of Waimea. You’ll find Parker Ranch, the largest single-owner-ship cattle ranch in the country. As you might expect, there’s a cowboy feel to the town complete with a 4th of July Rodeo.
Approach Mauna Kea from Waimea or Hilo via the Saddle Road. At 13.796 feet, you’ll be on top of the world and probably very cold unless you brought warm clothing. Mauna Kea means “white mountain” for the snow that paints the summit with its array of power-full observatories.
Down the hill from Waimea is the North Kohala Coast, the Big Island’s sumptuous playground. This shore, always sunny, boasts numerous white sand beaches perfect for sunbathing, swimming and snorkeling. Lush, green golf courses carved from black lava present a beautiful, unearthly contrast.
Down the coast is the lively harbor town of Kailua-Kona with its labyrinth of shops, restaurants, hotels and condominiums. Leave from here on deep-sea fishing charters or stroll along the shore and watch the action. In October, Kailua-Kona welcomes world-class athletes here for the Ironman Triathlon.
Drive south from Kailua-Kona and you’ll be in coffee country where small plantations produce the world’s best coffee beans. Many growers host visitor centers and offer samples of the delicious brew. Stop in at the Kona Historical Society in Kealakekua to learn more about the region’s history. Kealakekua Bay was the site of Captain Cook’s death in 1779. Today, the bay is a marine preserve and one of the best snorkeling sites on this part of the island. One of the Big Island’s most sacred sites is preserved at Pu’uhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park, where you can walk among the heiau that served as a place of refuge for Hawaiians.
Continuing south to the Kau district is Ka Lae, or South Point. This is likely the spot where the voyaging Polynesians first landed in Hawai’i about 1.500 years ago. Indeed, it’s the southernmost point in the United States. Gaze out at the Pacific’s vastness from here. It is not hard to imagine the feelings of the first Hawaiians who sighted these shores after months at sea in a canoe.
Bordering Kau, at Kilauea Volcano, is the Puna district. The lava flow has claimed a town or two and covered some beaches, but life goes on for the orchid and flower growers in this chiefly green and forested part of the Big Island. In Puna, you can soak in a volcano-heated thermal pool. Find them at Ahalanui Beach Park and Isaac Hale Beach Park located near the colorful town of Pahoa.