Made in Hawaii | Sew Da Kine

I'm always on the lookout for unique products made in Hawaii. Not only do they make great gifts for family and friends who are away from home, but it's also a great way to support local businesses.

Sew Da Kine grabbed my attention with their line of cork bags and wallets. I've always loved the neutrality and versatility of cork, but how would it hold up as a bag? Would it be hard? Would it become dry and brittle and crumble?

I've been carrying around my 'Pakeke' bag for about three months now and it has exceeded my expectations in quality and durability. Not to mention, it's still clean!

Check out Sew Da Kine to see their full line of products;

use code: OOMPH10 for 10% off your order.

how handsome are these wallets?

Stay in touch with Sew Da Kine: facebook | instagram | twitter

Live Aloha. 01

Today I witnessed several acts of ALOHA.

It's always touching when I see people go out of their way to live aloha and to keep Hawaii beautiful. As a popular vacation destination, many come to Hawaii for its beautiful beaches, scenery, and warm weather...so it's disheartening when people litter, vandalize, and disrespect our 'aina (land). As we would do when we visit your home, please malama ka 'aina (take care the land).

Here's what I saw today:

A plastic bag flew into the water. This kid surfed over to the bag and put it in his pocket [to throw away later].

This guy was scraping bubble gum off the wall.

This woman was spreading aloha by passing out Tiare flowers to everyone at the lookouts.

They smelled so good!

This lady was beautifying the lookout by planting flowers in this little area.

A huge MAHALO to these oomph-worthy citizens. All of these acts of aloha can be seen

on my periscopes here and here.

*     *     *

Do you live aloha?
What did you do that was oomph-worthy today?

FAQ: Luaus

Frequently Asked Question: Should I see a luau? (If so, can you recommend some?)

Answer: Yes.

Paradise Cove Luau

If you want the ultimate experience in traditional island culture, attending a luau is a fun way to get it through music, dance, and food. A luau usually begins with some pre-show activities like arts & crafts and the imu ceremony, followed by dinner and the show.

Many of the luaus have similar core elements as well as something that makes them unique. Below is a list of O'ahu luaus I could find along with some of their key features. I've only been to Paradise Cove luau, so  definitely do your research on the others (yelp is a great place). For more details on each, click the links to their websites. Prices here are current as of the date of this post; prices may change. If you know of other luaus that are not on this list, feel free to leave them in the comments.

Paradise Cove Luau | West Oahu

92-1089 Aliinui Drive, Kapolei, HI 96707

Book online here.

Adult $85-156

Youth $75-137

Child $65-123

Transportation +$14

*3 and under free, Kama'aina rates with Hawaii ID

Features: Classic "backyard" luau, oceanfront, imu ceremony

I have attended Paradise Cove Luau; you can read about it here.

Germaine's Luau | West Oahu

91-119 Olai Street, Kapolei, HI 96707

Book online here.

Adult $88-153

Juniors $78-138

Child $68-125

*3 and under free, promo code and summer specials available now

Features: Classic "backyard" luau, oceanfront, imu ceremony, Royal Court of Polynesia

Diamond Head Luau | Waikiki

2777 Kalakaua Avenue, Honolulu, HI 96815

Book online here.

Adult $99-159

Child $69-109

*3 and under free

Features: Smaller venue, oceanfront, temporary Polynesian tattoos

Polynesian Cultural Center's Ali'i Luau | North Oahu

55-370 Kamehameha Hwy, Laie, HI 96762

Book online here.

Adult $109-156

Child $87-111

*4 and under free

Features: Classic "backyard" luau, imu ceremony, ukulele lessons

Royal Hawaiian Hotel's Royal Hawaiian Luau | Waikiki

2259 Kalakaua Avenue, Honolulu, HI 96815

Book online here.

Adult $179

Juniors $101

Child <5 $20

Features: Classic "backyard" luau, oceanfront, kapa making, poi pounding

Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikiki Beach Resort's Waikiki Starlight Luau | , Waikiki

2005 Kalia Road, Honolulu, HI 96815

Book online here.

Adult $103-145

Child $51-65

Features: Rooftop luau, waikiki city views, conch shell blowing, Samoan knife dancer

Sea Life Park's Chief's Luau | East Oahu

41-202 Kalanianaole Hwy, Waimanalo, HI 96795

Book online here.

Adult $99-159

Child $69-109

Transportation +$14

*4 and under free

Features: Classic "backyard" luau, oceanfront, imu/ava ceremony, fire-knife dancer

*     *     *

Have you been to a luau?

If so, what was your favorite part?

Kukaniloko Birthing Stones | Central O'ahu

Located in between the two O'ahu mountain ranges, the Kukaniloko Birthing Stones were said to be centrally located so that it could be seen by chiefs on either mountain range. It was the most powerful birthplace for Hawai'i's royalty. Only Ali'i could walk these sacred grounds and give birth here because the mana, or power, was passed thru to the child. Mothers were put on a strict diet and given a special sap drink to make it a painless birth.

Even though the stones are no longer used as a birthing place, there is still a sense of calm when you enter the park. From the Wahiawa plateau, there is a beautiful view of the Waianae Mountain Range as well as the Ko'olaus in the distance.

the birthplace is clearly defined by tall trees.

the mother never actually touches the stones. indentations in the stones are said to be where helpers placed their feet to steady themselves while holding the mother. 

this is on the way to the north shore. if you are headed that way, it's worth a quick stop to take in the beauty of this historical place.

from the road, it doesn't look like anything...but walk down this path, and you're treated to an amazing view.

*          *          *

must see: yes, if in area

entrance fee: free

parking: very limited, but people don't stay long.

bathrooms: no

good for kids: yes

concession: no

approximate time needed: 30 minutes

suggested items to bring: camera

tip 1: after the rain, it can get muddy near the parking area.

what to do after: head to the north shore for some fun in the sun. stop at the Aloha General Store in the North Shore Marketplace for shave ice.

Wahiawa, HI | 96786

Byodo-In Temple | Windward, O'ahu

Once you cross this bridge, it's like you're in another place...Japan! This replica of the Byodo-In Temple in Uji, Japan is nestled behind the Valley of the Temple memorial and up against the lush Ko'olau Mountain Range. It's absolutely beautiful and peaceful.

There are three main attractions: the Amida Buddha, which is located in the main temple, the sacred bell, and the meditation pavilion. Take a relaxing stroll through the grounds taking in the sights and sounds of nature.

are you interested in japanese culture?

what are your favorite temples to visit?

see my periscope video of byodo-in temple here.

*          *          *

must see: yes

entrance fee: $3 adult/$2 senior/$1 child

cash only

parking: yes, free

bathrooms: yes

good for kids: yes

concession: small gift shop, vending machine

approximate time needed: 1hr

suggested items to bring: insect repellent, camera

tip 1: check the calendar for daily events like book signings, concerts, and yoga classes.

what to do after: catch a movie across the street at Ko'olau Consolidated Theaters or shop at Windward Mall.

47-200 Kahekili Hwy | Kaneohe, HI | 96744

Spitting Caves | East O'ahu

Last month, I showed you China Walls...a place in Hawaii where you can cliff jump into the ocean. This month, we've graduated to Spitting Caves, a 60+ foot jump over, well...a spitting cave! Thrill seekers dive right at the mouth of the cave, timing it so that they don't get sucked into the cave or swept out to sea by the powerful current.

On this day, we were lucky enough to see someone jump. While he jumped from the rock off to the side, it was still exciting to see.

view of the cave, right in the center.

entrance, and emergency response location.

beautiful place to watch the sunset.

Would you jump off this 60ft cliff?

What's the most adventurous thing you've done?

see my periscope video of spitting caves:

(re: quality/format: this video was originally recorded in periscope and transferred to youtube; some parts may appear upside down)

*          *          *

must see: yes, if in the area

parking: street parking in neighborhood

approximate time needed: 30 minutes to take in the view; longer if you plan to jump

good for kids: no

what to bring: sunscreen, camera, gopro

tip 1: if in doubt, don't jump. you must be a good swimmer. read reviews and talk to others before jumping as it is very dangerous. many have lost their lives here...do not underestimate the power of the ocean.

tip 2: pack a small cooler and stay for the sunset.

what to do after: ice cream at bubbies or grab dinner at outback steakhouse.

7 Lumahai Place | Honolulu, HI | 96825

Paradise Cove Luau | Kapolei, O'ahu

Want to experience Hawaiian culture, enjoy good food and drink, all with a beautiful backdrop? Visit one of our luau for the ultimate experience.

I had a chance to visit Paradise Cove Luau recently and thoroughly enjoyed every moment of it. While I missed the hukilau and other pre-activities (due to traffic!), I made it just in time for this beautiful sunset. With cocktail in hand, we took in this view of the west side before heading to the buffet.

delicious food + drink.

on the plate: fish, kalua pork, salad, pasta, taro roll, lomi salmon & rice. 

in the glass: chi chi (pina colada w/vodka instead of rum)

the beautiful grounds.

Have you experienced a luau?

What was your favorite part?

See my periscopes of Paradise Cove Luau:

*          *          *

must see: yes

entrance fee: currently starting at $85

parking: yes, free

good for kids: yes

approximate time needed: 3 hours

suggested items to bring: camera

what to do before: check out our water park, Wet n Wild, or swim with (but do not touch!) the turtles at Ko Olina Resort Lagoons

92-1089 Alii Nui Drive | Kapolei, Oahu | 96707

Lanikai Beach | Kailua, O'ahu

Looking for that powdery white sand beach? Lanikai is where it's at. Take the drive to the always-lush windward side, and you'll be treated to half a mile of beautiful white sand beach. The generally calm water makes it a great place for water activities like stand up paddling or kayaking. Be aware, though, that there aren't any public facilities like bathrooms or showers here. And always remember...keep the beaches beautiful by packing out what you packed in.

the drive.

beach access.

view of Na Mokulua, or "The Moks".

do you like powdery white sand?

see my periscope videos of lanikai beach on katch. also a drive thru kailua town here.

*          *          *

parking: street parking

bathrooms/showers: no (nearest at kailua beach)

good for kids: yes

concession: no

activities: swim, stand up paddle, kayak

tip 1: be mindful when parking in the residential areas.

tip 2: you can kayak or paddle out to the mokulua islands. there are a few rental places in the area (kailua beach adventures and twogood kayaks to name a couple).

what to do before: lanikai pillbox hike

what to do after: shave ice at island snow (where president obama gets his shave ice) or grab a burger at teddy's bigger burgers. there on a thursday? check out the kailua farmer's market from 5-7:30 pm.

Kailua, HI | 96734

China Walls | East O'ahu

If you love cliff jumping, there are a few places on O'ahu that might satisfy your craving during your stay. While Waimea Bay is a popular spot on the north shore, you can test the waters at China Walls on the east side first before graduating to Spitting Caves a few blocks up the road. A few words of caution:

- never underestimate the power of the waves

- talk to locals about potential hazards

- keep children away from the edge

- if in doubt, don't jump

- go with a friend

beautiful view of the bay.

the entrance is at the end of this cul-de-sac.

make note of this emergency response location in case of trouble.

note: if the rocks are wet, you are within reach of the waves!

path to the cliffs.

grab a spot and take in the view. amazing place to watch the sunset. you can jump in and swim, but use extreme caution.

the beautiful lava layers.

are you one for extreme sports?

do you like to cliff-jump?

see my periscope video of china walls:

more on katch.

*          *          *

must see: no

parking: street parking in neighborhood

bathrooms: no

good for kids: no

concession: no

approximate time needed: 1-2 hrs if you plan to swim

what to bring: sunscreen

tip 1: great place to catch the sunset.

tip 2: bring a knife and soy sauce and you can enjoy fresh opihi straight off the rock.

what to do after: shave ice or smoothies at kokonuts shave ice & snacks. or grab a loco moco or zip pac at zippy's.

Hanapepe Place | Honolulu, HI | 96825

Ehukai Pillbox Trail | North Shore, O'ahu

Want a quick workout before hitting the beach? The Ehukai Pillbox Trail in Haleiwa will give your legs a nice burn without taking up the whole day. Located next to Sunset Elementary School, this hike took us about 30 minutes to get to the first pillbox. We probably could have made it to the top faster, but it was our first time navigating the trail. It isn't clearly marked and there were several forks in the trail...just stay to the left. There is a second pillbox which is said to have better views, but we didn't go on this day.

The first half of the trail is uphill. Use caution if hiking after rain, as it will make the stairs and roots slippery.

a mostly covered trail.

at the first pillbox...beautiful view of sunset beach/pipeline.

lots of rooted path to cover, and the pine needles make it slippery.

a picnic table near the first pillbox gives you a peek at what you'll see from the top.

inside the bunker.

post-hike treat.

see my periscope video of ehukai pillboxes:

*          *          *

parking: yes, lot in front of sunset elementary

bathrooms: yes, near parking lot

good for kids: yes because it's fairly short (2-ish miles). the first part of the trail involves climbing hills and stairs, then it flattens out.

(you know your child best)

approximate time needed: 1 hr round-trip to the first pillbox, depending on how long you take in the views.

suggested items to bring: camera, insect repellent when warm

tip 1: do not park in the sunset elementary school parking lot towards the back as they will lock the gate. stay towards the front near the bathrooms.

what to do after: take a dip in the ocean before grabbing a bite at ted's bakery. they are known for their pies, but i love their bread pudding. or head back to haleiwa for a juice or smoothie at lanikai juice.

59-178 Kamehameha Hwy | Haleiwa, HI | 96712

Hawaii State Capitol | Honolulu, Oahu

Take a look at this photo. What do you see? A well thought out design that represents all aspects of Hawaii. The columns around the official building resemble royal palms, the two cone-shaped legislative chambers symbolize the volcanos that formed our islands, and the reflection pool surrounding the building represents the Pacific Ocean. Many design elements appear in sets of eight representing the eight main islands.

Official business concerning the governing of the state of Hawaii takes place here with the Governor and Lieutenant Governor along with the executive and legislative branches, House of Representatives, and the Hawaii State Senate.

see my periscope video of hawaii state capitol on katch.

*          *          *

entrance fee: no

parking: yes, metered

approximate time needed: 30min - 1 hr for self-guided tour. guided tours also available.

what to do after: check out washington place where governors used to reside (they still live on the property in a new house), and where official governor functions take place. tours here.

415 South Beretania St | Honolulu, HI | 96813

Kolekole Pass | Wahiawa, O'ahu

Want a short hike with a great payoff? Look no further than Kolekole Pass. In less than 20 minutes, you'll be treated to breathtaking views of the Wai'anae mountains as well as an amazing view of the Wai'anae Valley. It's far enough inland that you can't get a great view of the valley from the road, so this hike is a real treat.

The trail is located on Schofield Barracks (military base), so if you are military or have friends in the military who can accompany you, you will have no problem getting on base. If not, no worries! You can still get on base...make sure to have your ID and current car registration, etc.

live-fire training in the area.

after a few flights of steps, it's a fairly flat walk to the lookout. you'll pass a big rock that is rumored to have been the place where fallen chiefs were beheaded. the superstitious say it's bad luck to touch the rock, but i have seen many pictures of people touching the rock.

i didn't touch it...just sayin'.

scenic lookout: the first view you'll see on the trail, looking north. 

this is where we went wrong.  definitely confusing as you would assume 'danger' means don't go that way, haha!

we got lost on our first attempt here. approaching this area and sign (above), we kept walking straight (where you see those people coming from). it's a long road down to nowhere. instead, turn left and walk beyond the orange barricade.

and further along, stay to the left.

scenic point: better view looking north.

this is the "big meadow" i kept seeing on reviews.

it was much smaller and overgrown than the photos.

the main scenic point: looking west down into wai'anae valley. it would be amazing if they trimmed those bushes to provide a less obstructed view of the valley.

there are steep cliffs, so use caution and stay away from the edge.

see my periscope video of kolekole pass on katch.

*          *          *

must see: yes, if in area

entrance fee: no

parking: yes

bathrooms: no

good for kids: yes because it's fairly short (< 3 miles) and flat

(you know your child best)

concession: no

approximate time needed: 45 min round-trip,

suggested items to bring: camera

tip 1: for a more challenging workout,

park on the street outside the barricades and brown signs and walk to the trail head for a little more distance.

tip 2: check out this facebook page for dates and times the trail will be open. it is usually not open when there is live-fire training.

what to do after: grab a yummy pie from sunny side bakery. they also serve local-style meals.

Schofield Barracks | Wahiawa, HI | 96857