Melissa Hoyer
Honolulu Pride 2025 will take place 16-18 October, celebrating the theme Ho‘omau, a Hawaiian word meaning “to persevere.” Presented by the Hawai‘i LGBT Legacy Foundation, this year’s event honours the resilience and unity of the LGBTQIA+ / MVPFAFF+ community and its leaders.
Held in the heart of Waikīkī, the weekend includes a colourful parade along Kalākaua Avenue, a festival at the Waikīkī Shell, and a range of cultural and community events.
Tucked along the golden shores of Waikīkī, Kaimana Beach Hotel is where laid-back elegance meets island soul. As the only boutique hotel in Waikīkī located directly on the sand, this mid-century gem offers a true toes-in-the-sand experience, blending the nostalgic charm of Hawaiʻi’s golden era with the creativity of today’s local culture. Guests can start their mornings with sunrise yoga by the sea, join a lei making or hula class, or unwind under the stars, all just steps from the water.
At the heart of the hotel is Hau Tree, a beloved oceanfront restaurant where friends and family gather to enjoy Honolulu’s favourite brunch, lunch, and dinner. With its breezy, beach-centric menu and warm hospitality, it’s a spot that delights both locals and visitors alike.
Award-winning farm tours on Maui
Go beyond the beach and explore the flavours of Maui with Hawai‘i Farm Project. Recently named the top two farm tours on the island by Hawai‘i Magazine readers, the Maui Pineapple Tour and Maui Chocolate Tour offer immersive, hands-on experiences that connect visitors to the land and local traditions.
Walk through pineapple fields on the slopes of Haleakalā or tour Lahaina’s cacao farm, home to Hawai‘i’s largest chocolate factory, with tastings included.
From fresh fruit and artisan chocolate to farm-to-table events and made-in-Hawai‘i gifts, Hawai‘i Farm Project is a delicious way to experience Maui’s agricultural heart.
Heritage sites of Hawai’i
From sacred valleys and royal palaces to volcanic landscapes and centuries-old fishing villages, Hawai‘i’s historic sites offer rich storytelling opportunities.
These cultural landmarks provide insight into the Islands’ deep history, Indigenous traditions, and diverse heritage. Whether you’re covering history, culture, travel or sustainability, these sites provide meaningful angles to explore.
The right way to say goodbye to a lei
In Hawai‘i, a lei is far more than a decorative garland; it’s a powerful expression of aloha, given with love, honour, and deep cultural significance.
That’s why, when the time comes to part with a lei, tossing it in the bin isn’t just frowned upon, it’s considered disrespectful. Instead, return it to nature in a mindful way: hang it on a tree branch, bury it in the earth, or gently float it in the ocean (just remember to remove any non-natural string first).
This small gesture is a beautiful way to honour Hawaiian culture and say mahalo to the land that inspired it. Read on to explore more about Hawaiian customs and traditions.
Spread a little Aloha
Visiting Oʻahu in September? Don’t miss Aloha Festivals, one of Hawai‘i’s longest-running cultural celebrations. This year’s theme, Ko Kula Uka, Ko Kula Kai (“those of the upland, those of the shore”), honours Hawai‘i’s traditions of sharing and community.
Highlights include the Waikīkī Ho‘olaule‘a street party on 20 September and the colourful Floral Parade on 27 September.
Tickets and merchandise available from 1 August at honolulupride.com.
