While on vacation on The Big Island, take time to relax, heal and rejuvenate through the “Loving Hands” of a Lomi Lomi massage therapist. Lomi Lomi literally translates as massage, however, the practioner’s goal is to encourage mental as well as physical relaxation. Lomi Lomi has been a sacred form of healing and …
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Posts Categorized: Hawaiian Traditions and Customs

Kava Beverage in Hawaii
Consumed for centuries by Polynesians and Hawaiians, Kava (or awa) is a soothing beverage made from the root of the kava plant. Touted for its medicinal qualities, kava is said to alleviate anxiety while promoting a heightened sense of well-being and mental clarity. Here in Kona, there are several places where you can try kava. …
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Chocolate in Hawai‘i
Hawai‘i is best known for crops like coffee and macadamia nuts, but did you know that Hawai‘i is the only in the United States where chocolate (cacao) is grown? Hawaii-grown cacao. Native to South America, cacao was first planted in Hawai‘i in 1850. Although there are only a handful of farmers in the state that …
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Walking Tour of Historic Kailua Village
Hulihe‘e Palace The essence of Kona can be found in its historic downtown village along the shores of Ali‘i Drive. Visitors to the Big Island will surely want to spend some time exploring the many landmarks, shops and sights of this relaxing, seaside destination. The town’s most historically significant site, Ahu‘ena Heiau at Kamakahonu, is …
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Cherry Blossom Heritage Festival
It’s cherry blossom time in Waimea, where dozens of beautiful cherry trees come into full bloom at Church Row Park along Mamalahoa Highway. Held each year on the first Saturday of February, the Waimea Cherry Blossom Heritage Festival celebrates the iconic trees of this upcountry Big Island town. Taking place at various venues throughout town, …
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Discovering Kona History
History abounds in Kona, whether its rich ranching heritage, multi-ethnic cultural lineage, agricultural significance or coffee farming legacy. The best place to learn about Kona’s fascinating past is to make a visit to the Kona Historical Society. Located in Kealakekua just a 15-minute drive from Holualoa, Kona Historical Society offers two living history programs: H.N. …
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Christmas in Hawai‘i
It’s Christmas in Hawai‘i, and although you won’t experience an old-fashioned “winter wonderland” in the Aloha State, holiday traditions abound amid the palm trees, sandy beaches, balmy temperatures and blue skies. Christmas at Holualoa Inn Live Christmas trees are usually imported by container from the Mainland. For local residents, it’s no secret that you have …
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Aloha, Senator Dan Inouye – United States Senator
Hawai‘i is mourning the loss of Senator Dan Inouye, who passed away on December 17 at age 88. Surrounded by his family, Senator Inouye kept Hawai‘i in his heart in his final hours. His last word was, “Aloha.” Senator Inouye at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, 2012 Senator Inouye was the most senior senator in the …
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