Naupaka romance inspires Kapalua Spa treatment

Kapalua Resort photo

The Naupaka love story is at the heart of a new spa treatment at Maui's Kapalua Spa.

The Hawaiian love story of the mountain and ocean naupaka has inspired a new spa treatment perfect for Valentine’s Day, called “Hawaiian Love Story,” available at the Kapalua Spa in Maui’s Kapalua Resort.

As legend tells, a princess named Naupaka fell in love with a commoner. In ancient times, Hawaiian tradition forbade those of royal blood to marry people of common decent. Princess Naupaka took the white flower in her hair and tore it in half. She placed one half in her lover’s hand and told him to return to the ocean shore as she would live her life in the mountains yearning to one day be together.

Today, naupaka, noted for their white half blossoms, can only be found near the ocean (naupaka kahakai) and in the mountains (naupaka kuahiwi). It is said that when the flower from the mountain (Naupaka Kuahiwi) joins the seashore (Naupaka Kahakai), the Hawaiian lovers will be together once again.

The half-blooming naupaka blossom.

The Kapalua Spa team and Hawaiian healer and therapist Darryl Lapulapu created a treatment utilizing the fragrance of the two types of naupaka.

Specifically designed as a couples-only experience, this spa journey starts in Naupaka spa suites that feature two outdoor ocean view huts united by a stone carved tub. Both guests will be able to see each other, while separated into their own spa huts, until they can be reunited.

Each guest will enjoy a traditional lomi lomi massage infused with the assigned scent for each gender, naupaka kuahiwi for women, and naupaka kahakai for men, followed by exfoliation. The journey ends with both guests united in an aromatic couple’s bath in the carved stone hot tub.

The 100-minute treatment includes two lunches by the spa pool, tropical fruit tray and coconut waters. The cost is $575 plus tax and gratuities. For more information, call 808.665.8282 or visit www.kapalua.com.

Quilt Shop Hop scheduled

The 5th Annual Quilt Shop Hop will take place Feb. 1 to 23, 2013, on Hawaii Island, with stops at eight different quilt shops—each with its own personality and style—from Kailua-Kona, to Volcano and Pahala, Hilo town and Waimea.

Shop-hoppers can have their “passport” stamped at each store, to be eligible for prize drawings of fabric and gift cards, and pick up a unique quilt block pattern to create their own 2013 Shop Hop quilt.
The 2013 Shop Hop quilt theme features the unique flora and fauna of Hawaii, with bright tropical flowers, everyone’s favorite honu (sea turtle), dolphins, nene goose, and the native i'iwi bird. The quilt block patterns are free, or available for purchase with fabric as a kit.

This year’s event also includes a new, custom “Big Island” fabric, designed by Shop Hop organizer Mary Moody Cox, available only from participating shops on the circuit. The vivid aloha-style 100 percent cotton print is covered with colorful island images from the mountains to the sea: waterfalls, volcano, birds, flowers, plants, petroglyphs, dolphins and more.

Maps and passports can be picked up at each location, and “shop-hoppers” can start their tour at any of the venues along the route, or sign up for a scheduled bus tour. (See itinerary below.)

For information, visit www.facebook.com/BigIslandQuiltShopHopHawaii.

Bus tours:
Feb. 2: Kona to Waimea tour includes the 20th annual Waimea Cherry Blossom Festival and Hawaiian Quilt Show presented by Ka Hui Kapa Apana O Waimea. Contact Karen Barry at Quilt Passions, (808) 329-7475.
Feb. 7: Pahala to Hilo tour information. Call Donna at Pahala Quilting, (808) 238-0505.
Feb. 9: Kona to Hilo, call Karen Barry at Quilt Passions, (808) 329-7475.
Feb. 12: Pahala to Waimea & Kona. Call Pahala Quilting (808) 238-0505.
Feb. 16: Hilo to Kona, call Mary Moody-Cox at Kilauea Kreations II, (808) 961-1100.

Shop Hop circuit:

East Hawai‘i
>> Pahala Quilting and Creative Sewing Center: 96-3196 Maile St., Pahala; (808) 238-0505. Visit www.PahalaQuilting.com
>> Kilauea Kreations I: 19-3972 Volcano Rd., Volcano; (808) 967-8090. Visit www.KilaueaKreations.com
>> Kilauea Kreations II: 680 Manono St., Hilo; (808) 961-1100. Visit www.KilaueaKreations.com
>> The Fabric Workshop: 1348 Kilauea Ave., Hilo; (808) 933-1010.
>> Fabric Impressions: 206 Kamehameha Avenue, Hilo; (808) 961-4468.

West Hawai‘i
>> Topstitch: Waimea Center: 65-1158 Mamalahoa Highway, Kamuela; (808) 885-4482. Visit www.facebook.com/TopstitchHawaii
>> The Fabric Gift Shop: 74-5599 Luhia St., D-5, Kailua Kona; (808) 329-8177.
>> Quilt Passions and Needlework Shop: 75-5626 Kuakini Hwy., Kailua-Kona; (808) 329-7475. Visit www.QuiltPassions.net

Spring romance at Ritz-Carlton, Kapalua

Ritz-Carlton Kapalua photo

Valentine’s Day is around the corner, and The Ritz-Carlton, Kapalua, is offering many ways to say “I Love You” with a romantic getaway.

Couples staying at the resort from Jan. 27 through March 15, 2013, will be able to enjoy complimentary pleasures as follows:

>> Savor decadent treats for two from the resort’s artistic pastry chef upon arrival.
>> Toast to your past, present and future as specialty champagne is delivered right to your chaise lounge while you relax at the resort’s three-tiered, 10,000 square foot pool.
>> Invigorate the senses with an aromatic Epicurean Papaya Pineapple Lotion gift when you visit the Waihua Spa.
>> Making a lei with your loved one, followed by a traditional ceremonial exchange to express your commitment to each other.
>> Play like you’re 18 again with Couples Putting at the Kapalua Golf 18-hole putting course, while enjoying scenic vistas and panoramic ocean views together.

Couples enhancements
Available from Jan. 27 through March 15, 2013

“Romancing the Sea”: Journey with your love on a private sea kayak adventure to explore the beauty of the Pacific Ocean. Snorkeling, refreshments, snacks and photos of the tour are included. The cost is $278 per couple, exclusive of tax and gratuity.

“Maunalei Magic”: Hike though Maui’s forested uplands with trained naturalists and plant a native Hawaiian tree together that you can return to and visit for years to come. Costs $158 per couple, exclusive of tax and gratuity.

“Kapalua Golf Academy Couples Sunset Special”: Offers two hours of private golf instruction, same-day late afternoon round of golf on the Bay or Plantation Course, complimentary rental clubs, $25 gift certificate to the Plantation House or Pineapple Grill. Costs $429 per couple, exclusive of tax and gratuity. For reservations, call 808.662.7740 or email kapaluagolfacademy@troongolf.com

“Champagne Tasting Dinners at The Banyan Tree”: Linger over a tasting menu paired with fine champagne. Costs $280 per couple, exclusive of tax and gratuity.

“Sunset Happy Hour at Alaloa Lounge”: The resort’s mixologists will create $15 specialty cocktails as you and your loved one enjoy breathtaking ocean views at sunset.

“Casabella Cabana for Two: At the Beach House, with water and soft drink service. Costs $50 per day, exclusive of tax and gratuity.

“Chocolate-dipped Strawberry Manicure and Pedicure: Begin with a chocolate hand and foot soak and creamy foot mask. Finish with a strawberry body butter foot massage. Costs $250 per couple, exclusive of tax and gratuity.

“Couples Lomi Lomi Massage”: Drift away during an herbal spice massage. Costs $290 per couple for 50 minutes; $420 for 80 minutes, per couple, exclusive of tax and gratuity.

In addition to these special enhancements, a Romance Concierge can assist in planning a memorable evening. With packages themed after love stories like “Pretty Woman” and “Moonstruck,” the Ritz-Carlton, Kapalua can arrange for delivery of a basket of chocolates, champagne and a dozen red roses, rose petal turndowns and a champagne breakfast in bed.

For reservations, visit www.RitzCarlton.com/Kapalua.

Prince Winter Escape free nights offered

Prince Resorts Hawaii photo

Sunset at the Hapuna Beach Prince Resort, one of three Prince Resorts offering a winter escape package.

Prince Resorts Hawaii is offering a “Prince Winter Escape” free night promotion, valid through March 31, 2013, for those seeking to escape to Hawaii’s sunny beaches and balmy weather.

Enjoy a complimentary night at the Mauna Kea Beach Hotel and Hapuna Beach Prince Hotel on Hawaii’s Big Island, and at the Hawaii Prince Hotel Waikiki and Golf Club on Oahu. Prince Preferred Members also receive 2,500 bonus HawaiianMiles when booking this promotion with a five-night stay.

Promotion details are as follows:

Mauna Kea Beach Hotel: “Prince Winter Escape” rates start at $499 per night for a Mountain View room and offers a fourth complimentary night when guests book a stay of three consecutive nights. The Mauna Kea Beach Hotel was developed by famed financier Laurance S. Rockefeller who is reputed to have said, “every great beach deserves a great hotel” and built the Mauna Kea overlooking the best beach in the state of Hawaii. The Mauna Kea also features Robert Trent Jones, Sr.’s award-winning 18-hole golf course that recently completed updates and beautification by Rees Jones.

Hapuna Beach Prince Hotel: The special rate begins at $465 per night for a Partial Oceanview category room. When guests book two consecutive nights, they receive a third night free and a daily $100 resort credit. Resort credit may be used for golf, dining, and more. Sharing the 1,800-acre Mauna Kea Resort in Kohala with its sister, the Mauna Kea Beach Hotel, the Hapuna Beach Prince Hotel provides guests with contemporary comforts amid a serene Hawaiian ambience. The hotel recently completed a room renewal. Among its many guest amenities is an 18-hole Arnold Palmer/Ed Seay designed golf course.

Hawaii Prince Hotel Waikiki and Golf Club: “Prince Winter Escape” room rates start at $295 per night for an Oceanfront Marina category room and guests receive a free third night when booking two consecutive nights. The hotel’s exceptional Hawaii Regional and authentic Japanese cuisine make it a popular gathering place for visitors as well as locals.

Note: Black out dates and restrictions may apply. To book, visit www.PrinceResortsHawaii.com/Winter or call 1.866.PRINCE.6 (1.866.774.6236).

Malulani Pavilion open to special events at Holualoa Inn

Holualoa Inn

The new Malulani Pavilion at Holualoa Inn on Hawaii Island.

Holualoa Inn recently unveiled Hawaii's newest events venue, Malulani Pavilion. The open-air Malulani Pavilion offers a beautiful, tropical setting for hosting weddings, receptions, parties, events, corporate gatherings, fundraisers, family reunions and more.

Accommodating up to 120 guests and showcasing stellar views of the Kona Coast, Malulani Pavilion features an upscale gathering space highlighted by open-beam vaulted ceilings, a bar area and an enclosed commercial kitchen. The lawn fronting the Pavilion can be tented for additional space.

Surrounding the Pavilion, lushly landscaped tropical gardens are illuminated by tiki torches and romantic outdoor lighting. Available for day and evening events, the Pavilion can also be rented in conjunction with the main residence, which features six rooms and suites and comfortably sleeps 12 guests.

Additionally, Holualoa Inn's network of local vendors can provide an array of services, everything from event planning and facilitating to catering, florals, live music, photography, videography and traditional Hawaiian cultural experiences. For smaller gatherings, the Inn also features a poolside gazebo and additional niches on site.

Hibiscus Room at the Holualoa Inn.

Situated in the heart of Kona Coffee country on Hawaii's Big Island, Holualoa Inn is a prime destination for romantic getaways, honeymoon retreats and tropical vacations in paradise. Surrounded by bountiful gardens, tropical landscaping, orchards and ancient Hawaiian trails, Holualoa Inn is located within walking distance of the shops and art galleries of Holualoa Village, and is a 5-minute drive from downtown Kailua-Kona. Guests will enjoy farm-to-table gourmet breakfasts made with ingredients grown on site, as well as 100-percent Kona Coffee harvested from the property.


At 76-5932 Mamalahoa Highway. Call 808. 324.1121.

Maui Beach Hotel introduces B&B package

The Maui Beach Hotel is offering a "Bed and Breakfast" package through Dec. 31, 2013, with rates starting from $119 per night for a standard room.

Included in the price is hot breakfast for two in the Rainbow Terrace Dining Room (guests receive one breakfast credit for two people, per day) and free parking.

The 147-room Maui Beach Hotel, an Aqua Hotels & Resorts property, and longtime kamaaina favorite, features guest rooms with private lanais and refrigerators. Other complimentary amenities include fitness center access, fresh water swimming pool, high speed Internet and free airport shuttle service.

Rate quoted is based on best available rate, single or double occupancy plus taxes, and cannot be combined with any other offer or promotion. Blackout periods apply.  For reservations, book online at www.mauibeachhotel.net or call 808.924.6543.

 At 170 Kaahumanu Ave. in Kahului.

Whale watch season begins

Atlantis Navatek Cruises

The beginning of winter coincides with Whale Watch Season in Hawaii. Each year between November and May, as many as 10,000 humpback whales make their annual 3,000-mile-long journey from the North Pacific to Hawaii to mate and give birth to their calves. While visiting the islands, the cetaceans—which can weigh up to 45 tons—are often seen just off the Maui coastline. The fifth largest of the whales, the humpbacks are seen breaching, spouting, and slapping their tails.
For tips on viewing the winter whales, visit wikiwikihawaii.blogspot.com/p/winter-whales.html

Here are a couple of recent offers:

Shutterstock.com courtesy Outrigger Hotels

Outrigger Hotel and Resorts' Maui condominiums: Guests staying at the Outrigger Royal Kahana and Outrigger Napili Shores have a front-row seat in viewing humpback whales as they complete their winter migration to the Valley Isle. Rates starting at $195 per night for an ocean-view room.
For reservations or information, call a travel professional or Outrigger Hotels and Resorts at 1-866-956-4262 within the U.S., Guam and Canada. For online information or reservations, log on at www.outrigger.com.

Atlantis Navatek Cruises: Offers the rare opportunity to see the humpback whales as they swim, play and care for their young along Oahu’s south shore.
Navatek’s SWATH (Small Waterplane Area Twin Hull) technology and unique, double-hulled design lifts the passenger-carrying compartment above the ocean’s surface, limiting wave action against the vessel as guests are carried past Waikiki Beach, Diamond Head and along the East Oahu coastline.
The innovative design allows Atlantis to carry guests closer to the prime viewing locations for humpback whales in the Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary off East Oahu.
During the tour, an onboard naturalist provides insightful commentary about the whales’ characteristics and behavior. (If the naturalist does not see a humpback, all guests are offered a complimentary return whale watch cruise with the buffet available for an added fee.)
The 140-foot Navatek comfortably seats 300 guests and features upper and lower observation decks that are perfect for seeing the humpback whales in action, along with two air-conditioned dining rooms with large picture windows.
>> Atlantis’s Whale Watch Lunch Cruise: Offered through April 14, 2013. Navatek departs from Pier 6 at Aloha Tower Marketplace at 12:15 p.m. and returns to port at 2:30 p.m. Cost is $79 for adults and $42 for children (ages 7-12). Children 6 and younger are free. The all-you-can-eat buffet features teriyaki chicken, fresh catch of the day, dessert, and soft drinks. Complimentary round-trip ground transportation from Waikiki is provided.
>> Whale Watch Morning Cruise: Offered through April 7, 2013. Departs from Pier 6 at 9 a.m. and returns to port at 11 a.m. Cost is $54 for adults and $30 for children (ages 7-12). Children age 6 and younger are free. Free soft drinks, guava juice, coffee and tea are provided, with breakfast items and snacks available for purchase. Complimentary round-trip ground transportation from Waikiki is provided.

For more information or to book a tour, call (800) 548-6262 or visit www.atlantissubmarines.com.