NEWS
Nonstop to Kona
>> Alaska Airlines has added more nonstop Flights to Kona International Airport. The new daily nonstop flights from San Jose and Oakland, Calif., will start on March 12, 2012.
Currently, the airline serves Kona with three flights a week between Oakland and Kona, and four flights a week between San Jose and Kona.
A complete list of fares and daily routes is available at www.alaskaair.com or by calling (800) 252-7522.
Here are more of the latest deals and adventures awaiting on Hawaii's Big Island:
ADVENTURES, ACTIVITIES & EVENTS
>> Kohala Canopy Adventure: Hawaii Forest & Trail and Kohala Zipline present a new, exciting adventure, the Kohala Canopy Adventure. Kohala Zipline opened Sept. 3. This nature-based elevated inspiration is perched among the trees of Hālawa Gulch and features suspension bridges, soaring tree platforms and thrilling ziplines. Exclusive features, such as WhisperLines™ and smooth-stop braking, ensure guest safety and comfort, while delivering an unforgettable experience. Visit www.kohalazipline.com.
>> Smell the Flowers! Botanical World's new Segway of Hawaii tours let riders glide silently through the lush rainforest, waterfalls and exquisite gardens at its World Botanical Gardens north of Hilo. Certified Segway guides train and assist visitors to ride the stand-up, two-wheeled electric transporters, with 30-minute to two-hour-plus tours available. Combine a Segway Botanical Tour with a Zip Isle Zip Line tour and double up on fun and save on admission. Reservations recommended. Visit www.botanicalworld.com or call toll-free (888) 947-4753.
>> Ocean Sports Aqua Hula: With the guidance of a kumu hula (instructor), you'll learn and perform authentic hula dance moves in this easy-to-follow, no-impact, shallow-water workout. Routines are set to Hawaiian music, and no experience is required. Classes offered Mondays to Fridays at the Hilton Waikoloa Village. Call (808) 886-6666, ext. 103, or visit www.hawaiioceansports.com.
>> Big Island Eco Adventures II: Experience breathtaking mountains and gulches of North Kohala and soar on eight exhilarating zipline runs, ranging from 700 to 2,000 feet. Test your courage on a 200-foot suspension bridge overlooking a beautiful fern grotto. Enjoy light, local snacks at the Mango Hut, and zip out to finish the tour with views of Waianaia Gulch and the Pacific Ocean. Call (808) 889-5111 or visit www.thebigislandzipline.com.
>> Oahu-to-Big Island Air Adventure: Private parties from one to six people start their day on Oahu by boarding a private airplane with Makani Kai headed for the Big Island. After arriving, climb aboard Paradise Helicopters for flightseeing over Kīlauea volcano, then land in a secluded valley on the Hāmākua Coast for a Hawaiian-themed picnic lunch. Contact Rob Payesko, (808) 329-6601, or email rob@paradisecopters.com.
>> Watch Manta Mama: A manta ray fondly called "Big Bertha" recently gave birth and her underwater courtship and 13-month gestation period was chronicled by Fair Wind Big Island Ocean Guides' videographer James L. Wing. Her 15-foot wing span make her easily recognizable among the giant rays often observed during Fair Wind's nighttime Manta Snorkel and Dive adventure just offshore from Sheraton Keauhou Bay Resort & Spa. Learn more at www.Fair-Wind.com.
SPA DELIGHTS
>> Hawaii Island Retreat at Maluhia Spa: A new Papaya Delight body treatment begins with roasted ground papaya seeds to exfoliate and polish the skin, followed by a mask of fresh organic papaya, goat yogurt, honey and geranium oil. Once the mask is removed, a massage with papaya-pineapple lotion leaves the skin silky smooth and dewy fresh. Call (808) 889-6336 for appointments.
>> Spa Without Walls at The Fairmont Orchid: Offers two new treatments from Hawaiian Rainforest Naturals, the Hiwahiwa and the Kane which incorporate lotions and essences drawn from island flowers. The 50-minute treatments are being offered for $159 in any one of the award-winning Spa's waterfall or oceanfront hale. Offer is exclusive of tax & gratuity and valid until Dec. 21, 2011. Call (808) 887-7540.
CULTURAL PURSUIT
>> "Dia De Los Muertos: Grievin' and Groovin' Fiesta, Procession and Art Exhibit": Takes place Nov. 1 and 2, 2011 at Volcano Art Center in Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park. This two-day celebration honoring the departed presents art, writing and movement based on mortality and the passage of time. Visit www.volcanoartcenter.org for details.
>> 2011 Kona Surf Film Festival: The weekend of international surf films, live music, local art and design, food and drinks takes place Dec. 2 and 3, 2011, at The Mauna Lani Bay Hotel & Bungalows. The weekend will benefit the Seathos Foundation, which promotes education and awareness of the human impact on the world's oceans. Enjoy special festival room rates starting from $199 a night. Visit www.maunalani.com.
>> Movies under the stars: Every Thursday, between 7:15 and 9 p.m., the Outrigger Royal Sea Cliff screen movies either filmed in Hawaii or about Hawaii. Recent viewings have included "Lilo and Stitch," "The Ride," "Soul Surfer" and "Blue Hawaii." There's even a concession stand with freshly popped popcorn and M&Ms to enjoy. Visit www.outriggerroyalseacliff.com.
ACCOMMODATIONS
>> Vacation Homes for the Holidays: Need a holiday getaway? Hawaii Vacation Rentals, Inc., has availability in Puakō during the holidays in beautiful beach cottages and luxurious homes. Puakō is a charming residential beach community on the sunny Kohala Coast, nestled between the Mauna Kea and Mauna Lani resorts. Visit www.vacationbigisland.com or call (800) 332-7081.
>> Prince Resorts Hawaii: Is offering up to $100 daily resort credit used toward dining, golf, spa, and more. Mauna Kea Beach Hotel is offering $399 per room per night for mountain view accommodations with $100 daily resort credit. Hapuna Beach Prince Hotel is offering a $199 per room per night for terrace accommodations with $50 daily resort credit. Offers valid Oct. 1 to Dec. 17, 2011. For reservations or information, call (866) Prince-6 or visit www.PrinceResortsHawaii.com/fall.
>> Hale Makamae Bed & Breakfast: Enjoy a 10 percent discount for new bookings, valid now through Nov. 15, 2011, and mention the 2011 Fall Special. Comfortable, spacious suites are surrounded by two acres of serene tropical gardens in Puna. Families welcome, gourmet breakfast included, free Wi-Fi. Ten minutes to the lava flow, 30 minutes to Hilo and Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park, five minutes to Pāhoa. Visit www.bnb-aloha.com.
>> Hilton Waikoloa Village Club Keiki: The childrens' program offers a safe and fun environment for children ages 5 to 12, with day and night camp activities including crafts, games and water activities. Club Keiki counselors tell stories of the islands and teach children about Hawaiian culture while parents' enjoy a getaway of their own. Call (808) 886-1234, ext. 1202 or visit www.hiltonwaikoloavillage.com.
>> Castle Resorts & Hotels: "Fall for Hawaii" specials offer 55 percent off select hotels and condominium resorts on the Big Island. Properties include full kitchens, washer/dryers, oceanfront swimming pools, restaurants, fitness centers and more. Visit www.castleresorts.com, or call (800) 545-3510.
>> Sheraton Keauhou Bay Resort & Spa: Book a room now through Dec. 23, 2011, at rates starting at $129 per night. The "Book Now & Save" rate is non-changeable, non-refundable and subject to availability at time of booking. Applicable state taxes and daily resort service fee not included. Book online at www.SheratonKeauhou.com/specials.
>> Bougainvillea Bed and Breakfast: A room, restaurant offer and three nights are available for two, at $89/night. Try the new eatery, Rock Island Roadhouse, with a $25 coupon. Offer valid through Dec. 15, 2011. Call (808) 929-7089 or visit www.bougainvilleabedandbreakfast.com.
>> Aston Hotels & Resorts: Sweet Suite package available for golf enthusiasts. Package includes two rounds of golf, plus cart, at the Waikoloa Beach Golf Course (Beach or Kings Course) and accommodations at the Aston Shores at Waikoloa with starting rates from $234 per night or Aston Waikoloa Colony Villas starting at $243 per night. Visit www.AstonHotels.com or call (866) 774-2924.
TASTE
>> 41st Annual Kona Coffee Cultural Festival: Praised for its fine, aromatic and memorable taste, Kona coffee is celebrated at this event, running Nov. 4 to 13, 2011. The 10-day festival is recognized as the oldest and one of the most successful food festivals in Hawaii, honoring the heritage and achievements of Kona coffee pioneers, farmers and artisans. www.konacoffeefest.com.
>> Wine Grapes grown with ocean water: The innovators at the Natural Energy Laboratory of Hawai'i (NELHA) in Kona have been growing Isabella-variety wine grapes with ocean water since 1997. Visit these one-of-a-kind wine grapes at the Gateway Center at NELHA, www.energyfuturehawaii.org.
>> AKA Sushi: New in the Waimea Shopping Center, this 22-seat sushi restaurant run by Kyaw Mo and his wife Akiko, serves traditional nigiri sushi, sashimi, hand rolls, rice bowls and somen. Open for lunch and dinner, 10:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. Tuesdays through Saturdats. Call (808) 887-2320.
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Updated: Jan. 1, 2011
>> Set sail with the friendly crew at Ocean Sports for a whale watching adventure. Their fleet of three luxurious catamarans departs three times daily from two protected areas within the National Marine Sanctuary. All excursions include narration from marine naturalists, hydrophones to hear the humpbacks' songs, photo opportunities, beverages and snacks. See a whale or return for free. Visit www.hawaiioceansports.com or call (808) 886-6666 ext. 103 for information/reservations.
>> Kona Boys now offers historic Hawaiian outrigger canoe (wa'a) rides from the beach at Kamakahonu Bay in historic Kailua Village. The one-hour paddle explores the Kona Coast in the tradition of the ancient Hawaiians. Glide across the waters of Kailua Bay to learn about the rich history of the area and the role the outrigger canoe played in Hawaiian culture. During winter, it is not uncommon to sight Hawaii's winter whales. Spinner dolphins are present year-round. Private charters also available. Call (808) 328-1234 or visit www.konaboys.com.
>> Sunshine Helicopters introduces the Kohala/Hāmākua Coast tour at a special family-oriented rate of $199 per person. Departures are from Sunshine's exclusive Hapuna Heliport with courtesy shuttle available from the South Kohala resorts. This area of the Big Island offers some of the most spectacular vistas in Hawai'i, including sea cliffs, hidden valleys and cascading waterfalls. Call (808) 882-1223, and go to www.sunshinehelicopters.com.
>> Award-winning Fair Wind Big Island Ocean Guides will offer 50 percent off your second trip when you book online, beginning in January 2011. Ocean adventurers book a Fair Wind Morning Snorkel or Hula Kai Evening Manta Adventure online then call Fair Wind at (808) 345-0268 to book a Fair Wind Afternoon Snorkel Cruise or a Hula Kai Morning Snorkel Cruise at half price. Cannot be combined with other offers, subject to availability and other restrictions. Visit www.Fair-Wind.com for more information.
>> Pa'ani Ranch & ATV Adventures rolls out group tour discounts. Groups of 10 or more get 10 percent off all ATV, Horseback, and Lil' Wrangler programs. Mom and dad can enjoy an ATV tour or ride horseback while the kids have fun in the Lil' Wrangler program. All three tours are scheduled to start and end at approximately the same time. Call (808) 968-7529 for reservations or visit www.paaniranch.com.
>> Local Knowledge. For every van tour of six or more, Vavoom Volcano Tours plays a Hawaiian version of Trivial Pursuit back to Hilo from Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park. Winners get a prize (a free bag of Kona coffee or similar). See www.vavoomhawaii.com for more information.
>> Hawaii Forest & Trail recently launched a brand new website featuring an enhanced interface and expanded content throughout. The new site ensures users have all of the information they need when browsing for their next great adventure. Also included in the site is "Discover Hawaii" where guests can explore the rich natural and cultural history of the Islands with short articles and essays on Hawaii's diverse flora and fauna, astronomy and history. Explore www.hawaii-forest.com.
>> Stay Tuned for New Ziplines! The popular zipline outfitter Big Island Eco Adventures will soon present "KZ2," an advanced course with nine ziplines, a suspension bridge, and runs averaging 2,000 feet long and 350 feet deep in North Kohala. Call (808) 889-5111 to learn more or visit www.bigislandecoadventures.com.
ACCOMMODATIONS
>> Kolea at Waikoloa Beach Resort is one of several stunning beachfront vacation rental communities on the Big Island. For 2011, enjoy your seventh night free and no additional fees when booking one of these luxurious two- or three-bedroom villas. Call (808) 987-4519 or visit www.waikoloavacationrentals.com/kolea-rentals.
>> Four Seasons Resort Hualalai recently garnered two awards. Hawai'i Island's only Forbes Five Star and AAA Five Diamond resort has been named among the "World's Best Family Hotels & Cruises" by Travel + Leisure Family and one of "The Ten Best Family Vacation Destinations Around the World" by Luxist. Families can now take advantage of the "Bring a Friend" package and receive 50 percent off a second guest room at http://www.fourseasons.com/hualalai/package_detail_3765.html or by calling (888) 340-5662.
>> Castle Hilo Hawaiian Hotel Volcano Park Package is offered at $382 for three nights. The oceanfront hotel overlooks Hilo Bay near the foot of majestic Maunakea. Enjoy the convenience of your own compact rental car and receive a seven-day pass to Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park. Bookings and information at (800) 367-5004 or email resinquiry@castleresorts.com.
>> In the best Hawaii Five-0 fashion, Aston Hotels & Resorts says, "Book 'Em Aston" with blockbuster rates starting at $185/night at Aston Shores at Waikoloa, $204 at Aston Kona by the Sea and $193 at Aston Waikoloa Colony Villas. Guests can catch the wave of satisfaction with Aston condominium resorts delivering all the comforts of home with full kitchens, separate bedrooms and living areas along with services and amenities. Visit www.AstonHotels.com or call 866-774-2924.
>> Foodies can experience the new "Chef Shuttle" package at Waikoloa Beach Marriott Resort & Spa! Beginning in 2011, chef Jayson Kanekoa will escort guests to the Waimea farmers market on the first Saturday each month to purchase fresh local produce that will be prepared at the resort that evening. Starting at $289 per room night, it includes Saturday dinner and Sunday Royal Luau for two. Friday through Monday stay required. Based on availability, restrictions may apply. Visit www.waikoloamarriott.com or call (808) 886-6789 with code D60.
>> Lu'au Savings are available when you book a vacation at the newly renovated King Kamehameha's Kona Beach Hotel, which is offering a 20 percent discount for one of the island's most popular lu'au, held on the shores of Kailua Bay on the historic grounds of Kamehameha the Great's final residence. Guests will be amazed by the display of authentic Polynesian cuisine and performances. Island Breeze Lu'au is rated the best lu'au on the Big Island by locals, visitors and travel writers. Visit www.konabeachhotel.com or call (800) 367-2111.
>> Keauhou Beach Resort has extended its Third Night Free offer and free daily breakfast buffet for all guests ($15 per person, per day value) through Dec. 21, 2011. This oceanfront resort offers guests casual elegance, authentic Hawaiian hospitality, historic sites including two restored heiau (stone temples) and cultural programs. For information and reservations, call (866) 326-6803.
>> Outrigger Royal Sea Cliffs invites guests to enjoy comfortable one- and two-bedroom condominium units, plus a full array of entertaining and complimentary guest activities. At the "Aloha Tuesday Party" guests are greeted with complimentary fresh flower lei, pupu and beverages, and entertainment by local keiki. Hawaiian music, dance and lei making are part of the weekly "Mahalo Friday Party," and each Monday it's "Sunset Monday" with local performer Alii Keanaaina, who sings and talks story about the Big Island. Visit www.outriggerroyalseacliff.com.
>> The Royal Kona Resort is offering Aloha Special Value Rates in Standard View, Partial Ocean View, Ocean View, and Oceanfront guestrooms for travel through Dec. 21, 2011. Aloha Standard View rates start at $115 per night. Some restrictions and blackout dates may apply. Call (800) 22-ALOHA (800-222-5642) or visit www.RoyalKona.com.
>> Home on the Range. The owners of Paniolo Adventures, the premier Open Range Horseback Riding operation on Hawaii Island, offer a beautiful guest cottage on their magnificent 4.5-acre North Kohala estate. The cottage is 10 minutes from Paniolo Adventures and 10 minutes from the historic sugar cane towns of Hāwī and Kapa'au, home to restaurants, galleries and coffee shops. Visit www.panioloadventures.com and click on the Paniolo Guest Cottage link. For reservations contact bob@panioloadventures.com.
>> Dragonfly Ranch announces new cultural and educational workshops at its South Kona Healing Arts Center. Aunty Tutu will periodically teach hula, sing, and "talk story" for A Week in Paradise. Visit www.dragonflyranch.com or call (808) 328-2159.
SPA DELIGHTS
>> Kohala Spa at Hilton Waikoloa Village offers a Hawaiian Coffee Fruit Facial. Experience an anti-aging 50-minute facial utilizing the brilliant Kona Red Hawaiian Coffee Fruit enriched with antioxidants. This highly effective regiment utilizes organic ingredients featuring a coffee fruit extract with a highly powered antioxidant concentrate and an intensive moisturizing cream, leaving skin supple and nourished. For information or reservations, call Kohala Spa at (808) 886-2828 or visit www.kohalaspa.com.
TASTY TIDBITS
>> Napua at the Mauna Lani Beach Club is a new restaurant on a sandy cove adjacent to Mauna Lani Point villa rentals. Napua is managed by brothers Brandon and Ryan Lee and chef Keoni Regidor according to the principles of ahupua'a, the ancient Hawaiian land division facilitating trade between farmers, hunters, and fishermen. Flavorful dishes are sourced from local farms and fishermen. Open daily for lunch 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.; sunset dinners with live Hawaiian music 4 to 8 p.m. Thursdays through Sundays. Dinner entrees are $26 to $36. (808) 885-5910.
