Best of Oahu Newsletter

Book Airfare Before It Goes Up

The average round trip fare from San Francisco to Hawaii during spring months is currently about $250. However, by the time June rolls around, prices tend to skyrocket.

Going credits this increase in demand to a variety of factors, including the addition of Southwest flights to Hawaii pre-pandemic, which helped bring down fares and make Hawaii a more affordable option for travelers.

If you're able to hold off until the end of summer, Going recommends visiting Hawaii in September. Tourist numbers tend to decline during the early fall season, which means even cheaper flights and better deals become available.

Frustrating Hawaii Hotel Fees

It's no secret that resort fees have become a controversial topic in the travel industry. Recently, Hawaii lawmakers have taken notice of this issue and are planning to take a closer look at hotel resort fees across the state.

Many travelers have voiced their frustration with the additional fees, which can range anywhere from $10 to $50 per night and are often mandatory. The fees can include services such as Wi-Fi, gym access, and pool towels, but many argue that these amenities should be included in the room rate.

While some hotels have already eliminated resort fees, others continue to charge them. The Hawaii State Legislature is expected to address this issue in the upcoming legislative session and may consider introducing legislation to regulate resort fees.

If you're planning a trip to Hawaii and want to avoid resort fees, be sure to do your research and check with the hotel before booking. And keep an eye out for any updates on this issue from the Hawaii State Legislature. hotels-in-oahu.html

Oahu March & April Events

There are some upcoming running events, night markets, Hawaiian band performances, and some fun seasonal events worth checking out.

There also lot's of other holiday events happening at Honolulu attractions, shopping centers, Farmers Markets, hotels, and other places...

oahu-events-in-march.html oahu-events-in-april.html

Restoring Iolani Palace Surroundings

This change has caused some inconvenience for visitors, but it will benefit the historical site and our community.

According to an article in Hawaii News Now, the removal of the parking lot will help to "make the palace grounds more pedestrian-friendly and aesthetically pleasing." iolani-palace.html

New Pearl Harbor Parking Fee

Starting April 15th, visitors to the Pearl Harbor National Memorial will be required to pay a $7 per day parking fee.

According to officials, the fee was the result of a public comment effort, and the revenue generated will help cover the park's ongoing maintenance expenses and fund improved services like security and exhibits.

However, it's worth noting that this fee only applies to parking and that admission to the Pearl Harbor National Memorial and USS Arizona Memorial program will remain free. pearl-harbor.html

Debated New Illegal Hiking Fines

Lawmakers and first responders are rallying behind a new bill that aims to charge individuals for expensive search and rescue operations. Those who are found to have ignored warning signs, ventured into prohibited areas, or embarked on illegal hikes would be charged for their rescue.

The head of the firefighters' union, Bobby Lee, believes it's time to break from tradition and hold people accountable for the costly air rescues, such as the one that took place recently at Haiku Stairs, which is off-limits. Lee stated, "If people aren't going to learn, then we have to try and do something else." According to the Honolulu Fire Department, a typical airlift takes two hours, including overtime costs, helicopter costs, gas, and maintenance, amounting to about $2,500 per hour to fly its helicopter.

It's time to stop granting those who ignore warnings a free pass, as stated by the firefighters' union. In a recent incident, firefighters rescued a man who fell while hiking the popular Stairway to Heaven trail, that has been closed to the public for years. Oahu-Hiking-Trails.html

Monk Seal Seen in the Ala Wai

An unexpected visitor has made a splash in the typically dirty waters of the Ala Wai Canal - a playful Hawaiian monk seal. The sighting of this returning seal may signal a positive change in the canal's conditions.

A couple from Waikiki reported seeing the seal twice within three weeks, with the most recent sighting near the McCully Bridge on Monday evening.

The Genki Ala Wai project, a nonprofit organization, has observed an increase in the number of animals making the canal their home. Thanks to their efforts in distributing "Genki Balls" made of microorganisms, molasses soil, and rice bran, the sludge in the water is being cleaned up.

Since the last Genki ball drop in November, various animals, including turtles, manta rays, aholehole and papio fish, and even a barracuda, have been spotted in the canal.

Discover the Ala Wai Canal through a self-guided walking tour around Waikiki...

waikiki-walking-tour.html

Dole Whip Coming To Stores

Exciting news for Dole Whip fans - you no longer need to make a special trip to the Dole Plantation in Haleiwa or travel to a Disney park to enjoy this popular tropical frozen treat.

Dole has recently announced that their dairy-free dessert will soon be available nationwide in supermarkets' freezer aisles.

The new offering will come in three delicious flavors: pineapple, mango, and strawberry. Get ready to enjoy this refreshing dessert in the comfort of your own home without any hassle. dole-plantation.html

Kayak Accident in Open Waters

Kayaking far from shore can be extremely dangerous and potentially life-threatening. As demonstrated in a recent incident near the Mokulua Islands, a 30-year-old woman from France was seriously injured after nearly drowning.

According to Honolulu Ocean Safety officials, the woman was attempting to kayak back to shore from the island in high winds when her kayak tipped over. Despite the perilous conditions, the woman was not wearing a life-jacket, which could have potentially saved her life.

As a result, she suffered from extreme exhaustion, multiple lacerations, and swallowed water. This is an important reminder of being properly equipped and prepared before venturing out into open waters. Lanikai-Beach-Oahu-Hawaii.html

Best North Shore Restaurants

Shrimp trucks, roadside Huli Huli Chicken barbecue, and Matsumotos Shave Ice make up Oahu North Shore Restaurants, but there is a lot more to discover.

Discover some new spots and classics that reside in Haleiwa and beyond... north-shore-restaurants.html

Oahu Popular Shows

Booking for new Oahu Shows and concerts have taken off for Blue Note Waikiki, Slack Key Lounge, Kana Ka Pila Grille, Waikiki Shell, Blaisdell Center, Hawaii Theatre and many hotel live music and entertainment venues. oahu-shows.html