Ko Olina Beachfront Penthouse

Sansei Seafood Restaurant and Sushi Bar, located on Waikiki Beach about 30 minutes from Ko Olina, has won numerous awards for its extensive sushi menu.  It has been recognized by Honolulu Magazine, as well as Travel and Leisure Magazine.

The menu boasts both contemporary sushi and new wave Asian cuisine.  Each sushi roll is highly creative and concocted on site by sushi experts.  Some of their unique rolls include the Panko Crusted Ahi Roll and the Kapalua Butterfly Roll.

For more information or to make a reservation, check out their website, www.sanseihawaii.com.

The Honolulu Museum of Art, located about 30 minutes from Ko Olina, is currently hosting an exhibition that details the history of boardshorts.  These shorts, designed for surfing and swimming, have evolved over the years to include complex decorative designs and high tech textile fabrics.  They have become the emblem of Hawaiian fashion and a symbol of extreme sports in general.

The exhibit will be open to visitors until January 13.  The museum is open from 10 am until 4:30 pm on Tuesdays through Saturdays and 1 pm to 5 pm on Sundays.  General admission costs $10 for adults and $5 for children.  For more information, visit www.honolulumuseum.org.

Chef Mavro, named for executive chef George Mavrothalassitis, is the only independently-owned Hawaiian restaurant to receive AAA Five Diamond status and numerous other culinary awards.  The restaurant features a contemporary Hawaiian menu with noticeable influences from Mavrothalassitis’ Provencale background.  The seasonal menu is crafted with local, fresh ingredients and includes recommended wine pairings.

Chef Mavro is located on South King Street, about 30 minutes from Ko Olina. For more information or to check out the menu, visit www.chefmavro.com.  To make a reservation, call (808) 944-4714.

The Honolulu Museum of Art, located about 30 minutes from Ko Olina, is hosting a six month exhibition on the art of tattooing.    The exhibit focuses on the evolution of tattooing from marginalized groups to mainstream contemporary culture.  Ten tattoo artists will present photographs of their work.  The exhibition will also consider cultural influences on the art of the tattoo with references to Hawaii’s Asian influences.

The museum is open from 10 am to 4:30 pm.  General admission costs $10 for adults and $5 for children.  For more information, visit http://honolulumuseum.org.

Duke’s Waikiki is a restaurant/barefoot bar located on the beach of Waikiki.  Named in honor of Duke Paoa Kahanamoku, a world renowned surfer and Olympic gold medalist for swimming, Duke’s Waikiki is designed to bring visitors close to the action by providing exceptional views of the coastline, live entertainment in the evenings, and easy viewing access to Hawaii’s surfing culture during the day.  It’s an easygoing restaurant ideal for people watching.

Duke’s is located on Kalakaua Avenue, about 30 minutes from Ko Olina.  For more information or to see a calendar of upcoming events, check out dukeswaikiki.com.

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.

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.

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.