Chief's Luau at Sea Life Park Interactive, Engaging Fun for All Ages

One of the best luaus in Oahu is Chief’s Luau at Sea Life Park. Engaging, entertaining and interactive, Chief’s Luau is fun for the whole family. Combining traditional Polynesian dances and traditions with hilarious comedy, this Oahu luau is different from any other you’ll experience in Hawaii.

Held at Sea Life Park’s private Makapu’u Meadows, the luau features a breathtaking panoramic backdrop of mountains and sea. Starting at 4:30pm, the fun begins with interactive activities like hula lessons, coconut husking, fire making, weaving, tattooing, and more. The atmosphere was during my visit was very festive, with different performers in the luau mingling with guests and helping them with their various crafts and activities. A cash bar is available during the luau as well, with drinks being served throughout the activity portion of the luau through the show. Before the feast is served though, be sure to watch the Imu Ceremony. It is the traditional unveiling ceremony of the roasted pig from its pit oven and is an essential element of any Hawaiian luau.

Once the Imu ceremony is complete, the luau fest soon begins. Be sure to come hungry to Chief’s Luau Oahu as the food is bountiful. Consisting of traditional items like poi, taro rolls and lomi lomi salmon are served along with Kalua (roasted) pork, crispy vegetable stir fry, Teriyaki chicken, grilled island fish with papaya marmalade and other delicious items. Everything was very tasty and the pineapple cake dessert was the perfect finish to the meal.

Shortly after the meal portion of the evening ends, the luau spectacular takes the stage. One of the reasons Sea Life Park’s Chief’s Luau is so entertaining is due to its star – Chief Sielu. Chief Sielu is internationally known as “The Coconut Man” for his 20 years at the Polynesian Cultural Center’s Samoan Village and star World Champion Fire Knife Dancer at their evening show. He is also known as the “Polynesian Comedian,” and for good reason. He had the entire audience in stiches with his humor. In between the terrific Polynesian dancing and drumming, his antics added a fresh touch that made this luau stand out from the rest. The other element of this show which made it stand out was its dynamic fire knife dance. Chief’s Luau features the most fire dancers of any luau, creating an amazing sight as they take over not only the stage but the luau grounds in an outstanding finale.

I had a wonderful experience at Chief’s Luau at Sea Life Park and recommend it to any Oahu vacationer.

Fantastic Location & Leisurely Comfort Await You at Aqua Palms Waikiki

The Aqua Palms Waikiki is the perfect place to stay for an Oahu vacation.  Located just one block from famous Waikiki Beach as well as Waikiki’s lively shopping, dining and nightlife scene, the Aqua Palms Waikiki puts you in the heart of all there is to do in this entertaining beach town.

Comfortable and contemporary, staying at the Waikiki Aqua Palms is a real value for those traveling to Oahu.  The high-rise property features renovated rooms decorated in a bright, tropical style.  I found the AquaBliss pillow-top beds to be very restful, and the balcony featured a nice view of Waikiki.  I especially enjoyed the balcony at night when I could see Waikiki all light up.  The boutique hotel offers rooms with city views, Diamond Head views or partial ocean views, so the choice is yours.  Spacious and nicely appointed, the room also came equipped with a pull-out sofa bed, 42″ wall mounted flat screen TV, desk and mini-fridge.  For a hotel, the bathroom was also of good size and had a large granite counter that held all of my travel toiletries with no problem.  A hair dryer also comes standard in rooms at the Aqua Palms Waikiki, something to note as not all Hawaii hotels have them in-room.

On top of the rooms being high quality, amenities at the Aqua Palms include a rooftop swimming pool overlooking the Waikiki skyline.  Be sure to go for a swim to get great views of Waikiki.  If you need to get a little work done or check-in back home during your vacation, head to the 24-hour business center, offering printing, fax and copy services.  The Waikiki Trolley stops right at the hotel’s front door, too, if you would rather hop a ride than walk to your destination.  On-site laundry and wireless internet make your stay convenient, as does the on-site IHOP restaurant where you can get a hearty breakfast before you start your day.

Choose Aqua Palms Hotel Waikiki for a leisurely yet inexpensive place to stay in Hawaii.

Dive into Life Under the Sea with Atlantis Submarines Oahu

Atlantis Adventures is the only attraction in Waikiki that takes guests over 100 feet below water, for an exploration all its own.  A trip with Atlantis is equally unique and enthralling, as the underwater sights you see truly do amaze.  Ready to learn more about what the trip is really like?  Read on.

To begin my adventure I checked in at the Hilton Pier located in front of the Hilton Hawaiian Village Ali'i Tower.  Look for a medium-sized kiosk near the waterfront.  From there, I made my way across the dock to board the ship which would take us to the submarine.  A souvenir photo is taken on the dock and it’s actually a pretty great image, as Diamond Head makes a fantastic backdrop. 

On the ship to the submarine, there is interior and exterior seating.   During the 20 minute ride, I recommend sitting on the balcony as there are fantastic views of Diamond Head to enjoy.  The bright blue waters of the sea contrasted by the emerald green of this natural U.S. monument is an incredible one.  After meeting the submarine in the waters off Oahu, I boarded and quickly found a seat in front of a large porthole perfect for viewing life under the sea.  A guide narrates the Atlantis Adventures Oahu tour, giving knowledgeable facts and information about the aquatic life seen and the artificial reefs, including two sunken ships and an airplane. Part of the cool factor of the excursion is watching the depth clock get higher and higher.  As we cruised along the ocean floor at 108 feet, I felt like a kid thinking “I’m in submarine!”  Plus, the aquatic life seen was abundant, as was the coral.  During the 40 minute tour, we even spotted sea turtles. 

Seating is spacious and didn't feel cramped aboard the Atlantis Submarine Oahu, and the portholes do provide optimum viewing.  I was on the premium submarine excursion, but there is a standard tour available.  The main difference is an enhanced amount of personal space and large viewports, although the dive location remains the same.  For more on the two ticket types, refer to our Frequently Asked Questions.

Discover Molokini & Turtle Arches with a Pacific Whale Foundation Snorkel Trip

When you travel to Maui, a snorkel trip to Molokini is an absolute must.  Molokini is a world class snorkeling environment inside the protective ring of an ancient volcanic crater, where over 250 marine species thrive in crystal-clear Hawaii waters.  Pacific Whale Foundation is one of the premier companies offering Maui snorkel trips to the area, and after my experience, one that I can highly recommend to other Hawaii vacationers. 

The Molokini snorkel trip, which includes a stop a Turtle arches – a haven for sea turtles, begins early.  You’ll need to check in by 6:30am as the excursion starts at 7am.  Getting up early is worth it, though, as you’re able to beat the crowds that can occur later in the day.  Molokini is a marine preserve, making it a very popular Maui attraction. 

After a quick walk to Ma’alaea Harbor and a souvenir photo snap (available for purchase upon return), the 2.5 mile boat ride to Molokini is underway.  A light breakfast of banana and coffee breads, as well as fruit, juices and coffee is served.  Snorkel gear is handed out during the boat ride, which was smooth and enjoyable, so once you arrive at the preserve you’re ready to explore the waters. 

Pacific Whale Foundation Maui gives a starter snorkel course to newbies, and provides water noodles and life belts to those that wish to use them.  During your time at Molokini, which is about an hour, you’re able to explore the reef on your own accord.  The waters of Molokini are very clear, providing optimum viewing.  Some of the fish I saw included the Black Triggerfish, Yellow Tang, Parrotfish, Raccoon butterflyfish and Bluefin Trevally.  The fish are used to people it seems, because you literally could swim through schools without bothering them.  Many species of colorful coral make the sights at Molokini come to life too. 

Next up was a stop at Turtles Arches, home to underwater lava arches where green sea turtles swim and play.  Viewing these magical sea creatures up close and in their natural environment was a real highlight of the trip. The underwater environment at Turtle Arches is much different from the environment at Molokini too, so you’re able to see two unique Maui sights on this Pacific Whale snorkel trip. 

The value of this excursion doesn’t end in the combination sights.  All of the snorkeling works up an appetite, so it’s a nice bonus lunch is included with the trip.  Chicken sandwiches, hot dogs, garden burgers, marinated Kula cucumber salad, three bean salad (kidney, black and garbonzo), and double chocolate chip cookies are served.  You also have a choice of soda, juice, water and complimentary beer, wine and Mai Tais is served as well.  The meal was the perfect way to end the excursion as we headed back to shore.

If you’re looking for one of the best Maui snorkel trips,  choose Pacific Whale Foundation. 

Stay Oceanfront in Historic Lahaina at Lahaina Shores Resort

Lahaina Shores Beach Resort in Maui is the only oceanfront condominium resort in historic Lahaina town, making it a unique and popular place to stay in Maui.  The resort, located in West Maui along historic Front Street, is within walking distance to all of Lahaina’s shopping, restaurants and art galleries.  Plus, the oceanfront location gives prime access to Lahaina’s beaches and the perfect spot to watch the gorgeous sunrises and sunsets only Maui creates. 

The plantation style design of Lahaina Shores Resort features an open air lobby with direct access to the beach, pool, and lounge chairs.  One of the things I loved about the resort was how relaxed it was.  Time seemed to move a bit slower, and the hustle and bustle of the world seemed to melt away. 

199-rooms are available at Lahaina Shores Maui, with oceanfront and mountain view options available.  During my Maui vacation, I stayed in an oceanfront studio.  Offering unobstructed views of the ocean and a large, private lanai, the condo exceeded my expectations.  With over 540 square feet of living space, the unit felt spacious, the queen bed was comfortable and made with crisp, clean linens, and you can really save money on food by utilizing the full kitchen.  Furnished with granite counters and modern appliances, the kitchen, as well as the rest of the furniture and case goods were in excellent condition and created an inviting place to stay. 

Lahaina Shores is also equipped with air conditioning.  This might be standard within mainland hotels, but in Hawaii many properties are open-air, so make note of this amenity. 

For my money, Lahaina Shores Maui is well worth every penny.  The location, accommodations and amenities combine to create one of the best values in Lahaina. 

Drums of the Pacific One of the Best Maui Luaus

Located on the grounds of the Hyatt Regency Maui on the Sunset Terrace, Drums of the Pacific combines a beautiful location with an entertaining Polynesian luau.  The shores of Ka'anapali Beach create a spectacular backdrop for the luau, especially as the sun sets and the sky turns stunning shades of golds and pinks. During the three hour experience, I enjoyed not only the setting but the show was engaging and the food and drink was plentiful.

My evening at Drums of the Pacific Luau began with a shell lei greeting and fresh mai tai.  Be sure to get to the luau at the 5:30 check-in time so you can get your photo taken with some of the cast.  Afterwards, performers are demonstrating arts and crafts, before lighting the luau torches.  Of course, the traditional Imu ceremony, where they unveil the main dish of the luau – Kalua Pua'a (roasted pork) – was a sight to see.  Soon enough, dinner begins and although there are quite a few people at the luau the buffet service line was expedited rather quickly.  Many choices lined the tables, with traditional Hawaiian flavors apparent in the huli huli chicken (barbecued with flavors like brown sugarcane, ginger, and soy), lomi lomi salmon, poi, taro rolls, and of course, the pork.  Save room for dessert though, as there is a table filled with delights such as macadamia nut luau cream pie and haupia with toasted coconut.  Service at Drums was very attentive.  Our waiter kept the drinks flowing and never hesitated to ask if we needed anything extra. 

After dining on the delicious dinner served at the Drums of the Pacific in Maui, there was a short break which allowed me to stroll the grounds of the Hyatt.  As luck would have it, an impressive sunset was painting the sky and it added to the Maui magic of the moment. 

The show itself began around 7pm.  Featuring aspects of culture from all of Polynesia, the Drums of the Pacific incorporated dances, songs, and stories from all of the Polynesian islands.  My favorite moments of the luau were those based on Polynesian legends, including a story of a man who had to walk backwards home to escape death and be reunited with his true love.  Each group of island dancers was superb.  The cultures of Hawaii, Samoa, Fiji, New Zealand, Tahiti, Tonga, and Rarotonga were all highlighted, creating a very authentic Hawaiian Luau.  The fire knife finale was a hot way to end the show, which was engaging and entertaining from start to finish. 

Go Country Tonite in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee

Are you ready for a night celebrating the best in country music? If so, Country Tonite is the show for you. Their two hour production blends the best of hits from yesterday and today, creating a timeless production. 
 

The energetic Country Tonite Pigeon Forge show features a talented cast of vocalists, singers, dancers and one funny comedian. From the start of the show, homage is paid to country music legends. Ernest Tubb’s “Walking the Floor Over You,” Pasty Clines’ “Fall to Pieces,” George Jones’ “He Stopped Loving Her Today,” Dolly Parton’s “Working 9 to 5” and Hank Williams’ “On the Bayou” get the night started right. Kid performers join the show during “Hello Darlin’” and “Tiger by the Tail,” and the band really gets going during the performance of “Orange Blossom Special.” Their comedian really brings the funny during a “Cletus Take the Wheel,” a song about bass fishing gone wrong. A moving gospel segment featured excellent vocals on tracks like “Amazing Grace” and “Will the Circle Be Unbroken,” but the entire cast really shined on “Old Time Religion.” Before the second half of the show wrapped up, a little bit of new country kicked things up a notch with Carrie Underwood’s “Good Girl” and Brad Paisley’s “When I Get Where I’m Going.” 

The country hits continued during the second half songs like “Turn It On, Turn It Up, Turn Me Loose” by Dwight Yoakam, “Swingin’” by John Anderson and the banjo pickin’ was a highlight of Earl Scruggs’ “Roll in my Sweet Babies Arms.” Bluegrass songs like “Blue Moon Kentucky” and “Man of Constant Sorrow” were some of my favorite Country Tonite moments as they combined the very best of the talents of the musicians and vocalists. I also really enjoyed the Johnny Cash segment, during which all the Cash favorites were performed, as well as the bluegrass spin on songs like “Single Ladies” by Beyoncé. A few more renditions of radio favorites like Miranda Lambert’s “Baggage Claim” and Lady Antebellum’s “Just a Kiss” filled the theater before a patriotic segment to close out the show. 

From start to finish, the Country Tonite show really delivers. It’s an affordable, family oriented show that is one of the area’s best.