Hawaii Photography

Ready for an island cruise? Sign up for one at Honolulu Harbor.

Cruises are fun for everyone, while being the better way to hop from island to island at a leisurely pace. From a historic point of view this very harbor where the piers stand today had a different name to the locals of Hawaii. Honolulu Harbor, once (and still for some today is) called Kuliolia and Ke’ Awa O’ Kou in the Hawaiian language. The port is not difficult to find whether by boat or by car. Standing within sight of the main entrance is the Aloha Tower one of Honolulu’s signature trademarks. The best place to find a deal on a cruise is within the harbormaster ticket offices. Two cruise companies operate out of Oahu, it is recommended to call ahead for pricing information, in general the cruises are very affordable. The companies both offer a variety of packages for groups to travel all over the islands. Located near Chinatown the Honolulu Port of Call is also a prime place to get into the city to explore for the day.

Pearl Harbor tours offer a historic perspective of American History. Located outside of Honolulu in Pearl Harbor are some of the greatest hidden shopping experiences available on the islands. First stop recommended by staff at Hawaii Photography is at the Pearl Ridge Shopping center. The area also has numerous restaurants and name brand outlet stores.

“Wherever you go, God be with you.” - Israel Kamakawiwo'ole

The way the waves hit the shore. It’s the people. The air. The happiness. Oahu has everything imaginable from shark adventures, fine dining, luaus and more.

There are many reasons why Oahu is the best place to visit for vacation. This island is the number one tourist hot spot because of the sheer amount of activities that any family can enjoy. For transportation, the writers of Hawaii Photography have you covered. We highly recommend renting a moped but there are plenty of other options to tour the islands as well. Just be careful of the taxi fares. Try the bus if you are looking for a more affordable adventure. Honolulu has one of the most extensive public bus systems in America, which is very reliable. However, the perfect way to explore the island is on a moped. Mopeds are a breezy way to get around and the perfect solution to limited parking. Whatever it is you choose, getting around the islands is easy with a little bit of planning.

There are thousands of places to eat in Honolulu the only big problem is choosing one at a time. Some of the best places for breakfast are Anna Miller’s and Wailana Coffee House. Both venues serve stacks of breakfast food that include shortcakes, eggs benedict and poached salmon.  Hawaii Photography writers recommend starting the day at Wailana Coffee House because of the quick access to Waikiki. It is an easy way to get the agenda on track while being totally family friendly. For dinner, try Kobe Japanese Steak House & Sushi Bar which is located near the Hilton Hotel offering a fun place to eat with entertainment and excellent chefs.

Kids Activities are Number 1 on Oahu

Oahu offers family friendly activities ranging from water parks to snorkeling adventures at Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve. There are also numerous hiking trails scattered all over the island. Diamond Head and Koko Head trails are both kid friendly but we recommend packing extra water for the journey. Expect the top of these trails to be windy with amazing views. For maximum fun travel to Hawaiian Waters Adventure Park located in Kapolei. This park is packed with rides and accommodates large families with a range of ages. At some point find the perfect break from the heat. For an alternative to the water park, Sea Life Park and the Honolulu Zoo offer animals from around the world. This environment is a calm way to spend the afternoon and has a concession stand perfect for lunch.

“What lies behind you and what lies in front of you, pales in comparison to what lies inside of you.” - Ralph Waldo Emerson

The best reactions in life are the ones that are most genuine. The most genuine reactions are usually least expected. Do we miss out on the small things? Life is fleeting. In all the fast paced events of the world today. We need to ask ourselves are we feeling a little crabby?

If the answer is yes. This post is for you. 

First off. Stop all that whining. Crabbiness is a self perpetuated behavior. Meaning if we will ourselves to have the feelings of a crustacean. That is what will happen. Rather than sharpening claws and bottom feeding relentlessly. We need to shuck the crab ways and take on the mannerisms of higher life forms. Humans are great but sometimes they can take a crab form. Which is a shame and waste of potential energy. 

Sometimes it is not easy to break that crabby claw off. With the help of the right tools this can be made easy. Simply, shut it off. Seek out the source of crabby thoughts and take a deep breath. Then consider the steps that will be necessary in becoming a human once again. Which is a good place to start a normal conversation. 

Some experts may say that crabby treatment of others is necessary. Unfortunately there is no real proof that this is true. In fact, it could be a reason for a crab mutiny. Crabs are unpredictable because they are bottom feeders and sometimes eat each other. Not really a good crew to hang around. If you find yourself around crabs in human form, than you can know that you are much bigger than a crab (most). If you are a crab, you might get eaten either way. 

Enjoy the enriching history of the Hawaiian islands at ‘Iolani Palace. As one of the most remarkable structures in Polynesia, the halls of Iolani represent the historic ties the Kalākaua Dynasty had with the 1,500 miles of Hawaiian Islands. Areas surrounding the palace are filled with various historic burial grounds. A final resting place for Hawaii’s elite. Before the construction of ‘Iolani previous renditions of the palace includes the Hale Ali’i and was known as the house of chiefs. This portion of the palace was purchased when King Kamehemeha III moved the capitol from Lahaina to Honolulu. A throne room, reception area and the state dining hall were the only rooms in the Hale Ali’i.

Tombs within ‘Iolani housed the deceased remains of both Queen Kamāmalu and the great King Kamehameha II. The dedication of these tombs was heavily influenced by the memoirs of the late king from one of his trips to London. Once the tomb became overcrowded bodies were removed to be placed in the Royal Mausoleum of Hawaii.

Before the establishment of Iolani palace there was no permanent location for the government capitol. Once the palace began construction in Honolulu, the halls were quickly overgrown. Numerous buildings and tombs were built to give the monarchy the infrastructure needed to administer services over the islands. Some of the buildings built later such as the Aliʻiōlani Hale, constructed during King Kamehameha V. Although this building had a few purposes it was a key structure in providing a working place for the monarchy and it’s ministries.

‘Iolani Palace was and still is one of the grandest structures of the time. Even to this day it remains the only palace within the United States. Many grand parties, as well as balls were thrown, it was once converted into a hospital in World War II and in the early days of Hawaii’s statehood; served as the home for the senate. With thanks to efforts of the community in 1969 ‘Iolani Palace was restored. Once again open to the public.

If you have ever been to Hawaii but never been to Fiji then you are missing out. Fiji has everything there is to like about the Hawaiian Islands with less crowds. In this episode of “Dirt Cheap”, host Chas Bruns teaches his viewers how to visit the island of Fiji without spending a whole lot of money. Perhaps that is one of the greatest things about the show. The show lends us a perspective that creatively portrays how-to save money from living accommodations, commuting, activities and even (LOL) alcohol! They literally cover everything.

The quirky antics of Chas Bruns help the show give off a breezy vibe. The best part was that the show portrayed a practical vacation with lots of great experiences. Even families could take advantage of some of the tips given out for free in the video. Fiji is a beautiful place to be, which should really be a fact rather than an opinion, one that captures the heart and rejuvenates the soul. Don’t worry if Fiji is not the place for you. The creators have more in store as the seasons progress.  

“Dirt Cheap” is set to film more episodes in summer. Staff at Media Empire have confirmed that they plan on filming the next show in Bar Harbor, Maine. When asked if they planned to film an episode on the Hawaiian Islands, Media Empire commented by saying that they did have something in the works but not all the details had emerged at this point. The show currently has one video available on Youtube with over 27,000 views and plans are being negotiated to broadcast the show on a major network.

Iolani Palace is the only royal palace in the United States.

  It was the home to two monarchs, the provisional government and remained a functional government facility until the late 1960’s. The current palace was remodeled in the 1970’s to be reopened as a historical museum. Though many people may believe this to be the original palace, the original one was razed nearly 100 years before the opening of the museum because the foundation had been badly damaged by termites. It was not even 20 years after this palace was built that the royalty who had lived there were evicted due to the overthrow of the Hawaiian monarchy.

  Iolani Palace is the most beautiful structure in Hawaii.

  The palace consists of the Grand Hall, Throne Room, Blue Room, State Dining Room, Private Suites. The Grand Hall connects all the other rooms and the upstairs which mostly consists of the royal family suites. The throne room was once the area of the palace used to entertain guests but after the overthrow of the Hawaiian monarchy the room was used for Queen Liliuokalani’s trial. The State Dining Room was perhaps the most elegant room in all of the palace with every inch intricately designed. It was used to host dinners for the important guests of the palace. The Blue Room was used for relaxed company and entertainment. The Private Suites were for the royalty. These elegant suites included a library and Hawaii’s earliest telephone.

  Reports of Iolani Palace being haunted.

  Iolani Palace according to some maybe haunted. There have been reports by security guards hearing footsteps and shadows appearing when no one is around. Some have even reported seeing lights in the tower on dark nights when there is not a light there in the first place. On a few accounts there have been people who have witnessed Queen Liliuokalani in a black dress walking down the halls. These spooky accounts have been noted by the Iolani Palace security guards. In one of their logs the Queen’s private quarters where found unlocked with the door wide open after a mysterious piano played in the Blue Room. Sometimes visitors of the palace comment smelling cigar smoke inside the palace even though no smoking is allowed. It is true that Queen Liliuokalani smoked cigars before her death in 1917.

  Iolani Palace is one of the most unique places to visit in the United States. For more information on visiting Iolani Palace visit their website. 

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Chinese statues line the plaza of this Chinatown marketplace.

  In Honolulu there are many things to do besides go to the beach and spend money at Ala Moana Shopping Center. Hawaii itself is full of numerous nooks and crannies that pack cultural symbols from all over the world. In fact, there are many cultures that are represented in Hawaii all of which contribute to the islands unique sense of identity. Culture shock is not uncommon for first time visitors to Honolulu and this is because there are so many different sights to see that all of it can be overwhelming at first glance.

  Sightseeing on the Hawaiian Islands can be a touch and go endeavor. Here is a list of places that are must see adventures for first time visitors.

  10 Places to Visit in Honolulu

  Atlantis Submarines - This is a perfect opportunity to go on a submarine adventure with offices right in Honolulu.

  Honolulu Zoo - With animals from all corners of the world, the Honolulu Zoo is an ideal place to bring the whole family.

  Honolulu Chinatown - Cheap prices and interesting sights, the Chinatown section of Honolulu has something to interest everyone.

  Iolani Palace - The historic home of the kings and queens of Hawaii, it is the only palace in the United States.

  Waikiki Beach - Swimming, surfing, kayaking and more. The Waikiki Beach is the best place to relax and enjoy Hawaii for the day.

  Diamond Head - This volcanic crater is a bit of a hike to the top but worth the trip for the magnificent views of Honolulu.

  Ala Moana Park - This great park is close to the shopping center. The beach offers swimming and other alternatives plus is close to Ward Warehouse.

  Bishop Museum - This museum was donated by Bernice Pauahi and is used to teach people about Hawaii. The museum also includes a dinosaur exhibit and planetarium.

  The Aloha Tower - Located on Pier Nine of the Honolulu Harbor, this early 20th century lighthouse is one of the most renowned landmarks of the state. Visitors can ride an elevator to the top for a view of the docks.

  Ward Warehouse - This shopping center is filled with unique shops and often cunning bargains. Nearby is a movie theatre that amounts to a days worth of activity.

There are many more iconic places to visit while vacationing in Honolulu. The list above is at least a weeks worth of activities. If you have any questions please contact us via the ask page.

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Have you ever heard about Jaws??? Jaws on Maui that is. What about the Banzai Pipeline? It is only the home of the Vans Triple Crown, so...maybe not. What about Castles on Oahu? The home of Duke Kahanamoku, a Hawaii surfing legend. No??? So if you haven’t heard of all those places than it is probably time to know that Ala Moana Bowls has nothing to do with breakfast cereals. What it all does have to with is surf in Hawaii. The most competitive sport that anyone could get into on the islands. There are so many big names in surfing that live full time or at least part of the year near their favorite surf spots that the local legends of Hawaii can often be unknown to the public.

 You get what you give in Hawaii…

 It is one thing to get comfortable with surfing places in California, Florida and even outside the country in Fiji, Brazil or Costa Rica. Though it may be hard to tell, the real difference in surfing Hawaii is the counter culture that surfing the islands really has to offer. If you act like a know-it-all surfer who is king of the break then it will be tough to get into any of the local surfing spots and fit in. Having one good day of surfing doesn’t change much of anything when it comes to how unforgiving Hawaii waters can be. One minute you are on top, the next you are eating reef. The cost of which can be very pricey. The best way to fit in to the local surfing scene is to give Aloha. Those that show humility and humbleness will have no problem on the ocean, even with complete strangers. Be warned. Travelling to Hawaii with the intentions of owning the scene can result in tragic karma.

 The pristine waters of Hawaii are a tantalizing temptation.

Hard to imagine that there is such a place in the world with the perfect combination of weather, beaches, reef and sun but such a place does exist as the pure definition of Hawaii. When the surfboard hits the break that is when it is obvious that there will never be a wave quite like this in a place so special. I think there are a lot of people who believe in a carpe diem mentality when it comes down to getting the most out of life. If you surf Hawaii and don’t believe it, then what are you doing?

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The Chinese hibiscus can be found throughout the Hawaiian islands. Pictured in the photograph above, this ornamental flower is often used in landscaping outside of local businesses. These beautiful flowers can also be found growing wild in some places. The main difference between this hibiscus and the red hibiscus, is the jagged edges of the flower. Whereas red hibiscus have smooth and round edges on the petals. The Chinese hibiscus is edible and can be used to garnish dishes but the flower will wilt by evening time. Unlike the plumeria, Hawaii’s favorite flower for making leis, the hibiscus has cloth like edges that do not make into leis very well. However, because these flowers do last for a length of time they are popular for wearing in hair but be careful that they do not contain ants searching for sweet nectar.These flowers attract butterflies and nectar seeking birds making it a popular choice for city gardens in commercial areas around Hawaii.

Hawaii’s state flower was once the red hibiscus but was changed to the Hawaiian hibiscus.

Below is a list of flower, fruit and exotic plants found in Hawaii

ma'o hau hele

yellow ilima

ohia

jewel orchid

pamakani

koli'i

kauhi

dwarf iliau

allspice

banana passion fruit

cinnamon

coffee (arabica)

guava

java plum

lilikoi

macadamia nut

mango

strawberry guava

autograph tree

cannonball tree

golden shower tree

ixora

rainbow shower tree

This list of Hawaii plant life only names a few of the over 3,000 native Hawaiian plants found on the islands. Many of these plants are beautiful tropical flora that can only be seen on the Hawaiian islands. The sad part is because of the islands people population some of these rare species of plants are becoming endangered. If we do not do our part to protect Hawaii’s environment than it all could disappear forever.

Live and Breathe Aloha

We can all do our part to protect the Hawaiian islands by making sure we care and respect the aina. Pick up trash when we see it lying around and do not unnecessarily damage the environment. We must understand that there is consequences for everything we do and we must cherish what we do have before it is all gone. If we all act mindfully of the things we do than we can provide a better future for the generations to come. We must kokua to make sure that we do not take this world and these islands for granted.

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Look at how happy this dog is to be in Hawaii!

You are all set to travel to Hawaii but...wait...you forgot the poor pooch at home. While your dog waits at home, you travel the beaches of Hawaii alone and without your four legged friend. Though the idea of bringing your pet to Hawaii is a novel one. Chances are likely that it will never happen. Few people are aware of this tiny fact about Hawaii. Hawaii has been rabies free and because of this Hawaii laws have been put into place to quarantine all pets on their arrival to Hawaii. Not to mention another harsh fact of the matter is that even though cats and dogs might be ok, other animals are not. The reason being, Hawaii is a lush tropical environment that nearly every plant and creature on this planet could potentially thrive in. Therefore this risk from pets could upset the ecological balance of the islands and kill off native species found only in Hawaii. Could you imagine your gerbils getting loose into Hawaii and populating the aina? Funny as that may be to imagine, most people living in Hawaii really don’t want to see our precious islands change from the beauty they already have.

Our friend Roxy is so glad to be out of quarantine!

The tough 11 hour flight was very difficult for our German Shepherd. The storage compartments underneath the cabin of most airplanes are actually pretty cold. When we had our dog moved over to live with us on the islands, we didn’t even get to see her for the longest time. The quarantine procedure for Hawaii can take up to 4 months! This is an especially long wait but the good news is that if your paperwork is completed then it can take even less time. Before we moved our dog to Hawaii we filed the paperwork 2 weeks in advance hoping to avoid the costly fees to quarantine. Yep. Guess who pays for the quarantine? The owners of the pets and the cost is approximately $19 per day. Even though that seems expensive, the laws really do help keep rabies out of Hawaii and protect the fragile Hawaiian ecosystems. So if you are looking to move to Hawaii than we recommend filling out your paperwork right away. Hopefully if the Hawaii government receives the paperwork early than your pet will not have to wait in quarantine for very long. If you are just looking to bring your pet with you to Hawaii for vacation, then the best plan is to leave them behind. Typically a quarantine will last longer than most vacations to the islands anway.  

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Paul Leo Klink explaining how living with Aloha has helped improve his life even when staring congenital heart failure face to face. 

Hiking with our photography equipment into the Waianae Valley was no easy task. The west side of Oahu is normally extremely dry but today the atmosphere was unbelievably humid, with no trade winds and a glaring Lahaina noon. Rays from the sun seemed to shine sharply like an ancient Hawaiian pike and the humid air in the valley didn’t seem to help us accomplish our goals.

Waianae used to be rich with sandalwood.

Sandalwood was ordered to be harvested and sold to European settlers. Hawaiians used this natural resource to gain supplies and even naval vessels. It was because of the pressures to trade sandalwood, which was once abundant on the Waianae Coast, that eventually caused the plants extinction on the islands. In fact Hawaiian’s of this time period spent so much of their resources harvesting the sandalwood in the area, that the main food crops began to dwindle. Today Waianae has a different story than the days of trading sandalwood.

The Waianae Coast is home to the largest homeless population in the United States.

Though not photographed, within several miles of the Waianae Valley is a homeless population larger than most small towns in America. Living along the coast is up to as many as 7,000 people. Called Tent City, this place is where families without a house to live in go for refuge. Even though many families live in this homeless community, many Hawaii locals will not leave Tent City even if the city of Honolulu paid them to do so. This small community is tight knit and share a sense of Ohana amongst one another. However there are many dangers living in a homeless community especially for children.

Waianae still remains largely populated by Hawaii locals. This special place keeps its small town vibe and the majority of people living on the Waianae Coast enjoy the beauty of the west side, as well as, the fishing industry. The Valley as photographed above is depicted in historical records as being extremely lush, with misty waterfalls and abundant wildlife. However when the US military became involved with the islands they diverted various fresh water sources and the Waianae Valley has since dried up. Hunters still are able to catch wild boar in the Waianae Mountains using dogs and machetes. Rifles are restricted in many places in Honolulu County including all areas that are near any US military bases or installments. Even though Waianae is mostly populated with Hawaii locals the military has taken over certain areas that used to be ancient hunting grounds.

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