JUL 10
2012
John Keawe, a Grammy award winning native to Hawaii, will perform a series of distinctive island songs tonight, July 10, at Waikoloa Kings Shops, about 30 minutes from Ko Olina. This performance is part of his weekly summer program at Kings Shops. Keawe spent several years in the Navy where he developed his own unique musical sounds that reflect his personality and rhythm.
The performance will last from 6:00 to 7:00 pm. For more information about Keawe and his musical style, check out his website, http://johnkeawe.com/.
JUL 7
2012
Halona Blowhole is a jagged rock formation located just off Hanauma Bay on Oahu’s southeastern shore, about 45 minutes from Ko Olina. During high tide on windy days, ocean gusts send water shooting over the the rocks in a geyser-like formation. During the winter months, this is a great location from which to view humpback whales as they begin their southward migration.
The rock formation was created by volcanic lava, which accounts for its black, jagged features. A friendly beach is also located beside the cove. For more information or directions, visit http://www.aloha-hawaii.com/oahu/halona-blowhole/. Visitors are cautioned, however, to heed all warning signs as strong wind can lead to dangerous conditions.
JUL 5
2012
Kumu Kahua Theatre, located about 30 minutes from Ko Olina, will host the annual Kala Bash fundraiser and Silent Auction next Saturday, July 7. Known for supporting local playwrights, Kumu Kahua Theatre often features plays with elements of local culture. The event will include live music from several Oahu musicians, food and drink, and an extensive silent auction.
The fundraiser will last from 5 pm to 9 pm. Tickets cost $40 each, and proceeds will go toward upcoming productions. For more information, check out http://kumukahua.org/our-events/kalabash.
JUL 2
2012
Diamond Head, the iconic crater overlooking Waikiki beach, is a 475 acre state monument that draws many visitors interested in scenic vistas, grueling day hikes, or Hawaii’s military history. Located just thirty minutes from Ko Olina, the park is filled with thick vegetation, wild fauna, and well maintained hiking trails. The trail to the summit of Diamond Head is just 0.8 miles long, but it requires a strenuous rise from the crater’s saucer-shaped floor. Enduring hikers are rewarded with a spectacular view overlooking Oahu’s southern shore.
The park is open 365 days each year from 6 am to 6 pm. Entrance costs $5 for each vehicle or $1 for pedestrians. For more information, check out http://www.hawaiistateparks.org.
JUN 30
2012
The final performance of The Actors’ Group of Hawaii’s “A Doll’s House” will take place tomorrow, July 1, at Dole Cannery Square, about thirty minutes from Ko Olina. The Henrik Ibsen play recounts the social awakening of main character Nora in a male-dominated, highly domesticated world. As she realizes the complexity of the society around her, she begins to question her own role more.
General admission tickets cost $20, and student or military tickets cost $12. The show will begin at 2 pm. For more information or to purchase your tickets, check out www.taghawaii.com.
JUN 28
2012
The art of storytelling through movement is embedded in the ancient Hawaiian culture of luau. Several luau packages are available from Paradise Cove Luau, located just a fifteen minute walk from Ko Olina. Packages include afternoon snorkeling options, Mai Tais on arrival, and a full buffet meal during the show.
Tickets range from $86 to $182 per adult and $66 to $138 per child. For more information about specific packages or to make a reservation, check out www.paradisecovehawaii.com.
JUN 25
2012
Jazz Minds Art Cafe, located on Kapiolani Boulevard about 30 minutes from Ko Olina, will host the Patrick Koh Jazz Ensemble tomorrow, June 26. The band, which features the traditional jazz sounds of bass, drums, keyboard, flute, and saxophone, will play a series of standard jazz songs.
The performance will last from 9 pm until about 2 am and is open to all dedicated jazz fans. For more information, check out www.honolulujazzclub.com.
JUN 23
2012
Laniakea Beach of Oahu, about 45 minutes from Ko Olina, is known for its spectacular abundance of marine turtles. Since human interactions with turtles has increased significantly in the last few years from regular scuba diving and snorkeling, the Laniakea turtle population has become less elusive and more accustomed to seeing humans.
This beach is easily accessible from Kamehameha Highway. In the interest of protecting Hawaii’s wildlife, do not feed, touch, or attempt to ride turtles and always maintain a safe distance.
JUN 20
2012
The Hawaii State Fair will conclude this weekend, June 22 through 24. The fiftieth annual state fair, the concluding weekend will have a range of activities for individuals of all ages, including traditional fair food and favorite Hawaiian flavors, games, rides, and musical entertainment.
Fair events take place at the Aloha Stadium, about 30 minutes from Ko Olina. Parking costs $5 per vehicle. Events take place from 6pm until closing on Fridays, 4pm until closing on Saturdays, and noon until closing on Sundays. For more information, check out http://alohastadium.hawaii.gov/info/press-releases/the-50th-state-fair.
JUN 17
2012
The Three Tables area of Oahu’s North Shore, about 50 minutes from Ko Olina, is a popular destination for snorkelers, scuba divers, and beach lovers in the summertime because of its clear waters, reef areas, and well-preserved beach. Because this area is protected by the Pupukea Beach Marine Sanctuary, it is abundant with sea life, including colorful fish, bright coral, and other engaging aquatic creatures.
Named for the three, flat table-like reefs visible during low tide, the best snorkeling is at the reefs themselves where fish tend to congregate. For more information, check out http://hawaii.gov/dlnr/dar/mlcd_pupukea.html.
