Honolulu Stories
We asked five local writers to share a personal story that would resonate with a broader audience for its authenticity, humor and heart.
HONOLULU Magazine - April 2026
Honolulu Stories: Live a Little
When it comes down to it, when the cards are on the table and the moment of truth has arrived, do I have what it takes to dig deep and win it all?
Honolulu Stories: Belonging
I hadn’t initially planned to take on a new surname later in life, tied to an ancestry that clearly wasn’t mine.
Honolulu Stories: The Joy of Aging
I don’t want to be younger and don’t care much about looking younger because I know who I am.
Honolulu Stories: Pet Mama
In a place I never planned to land, through a dog I got as a bribe, I became essential.
A New Coffee Culture
As coffee trends more scientific and sustainable worldwide, new cafés and carts in Honolulu are turning the drink fun and personal. Here’s a taste of our coffee world today.
Honolulu Stories: The Worst Tap Dancer in Honolulu
Everyone else at open adult tap is zippy and syncopated. I’m a half-step behind on the second twirl.
Ho‘okua‘āina Is Restoring Hawai‘i’s Ancestral Ways
With a major expansion, Ho‘okua‘āina encourages land and cultural stewardship along with community well-being.
Merrie Monarch Festival Returns in April
TktkHula hālau come from near and far to participate in this world-renowned competition.
Talk Story with Hawaiʻi Poet Laureate Lee A. Tonouchi
We caught up with the writer, teacher and Pidgin advocate after his appointment.
How the Arts Benefit Kids
Children and teens gain cognitively, socially and in many other ways when they take part in music, dance, visual arts and theater programs.
Honolulu Marathon Economic Impact
The 2025 event had record attendance and generated nearly $524 million for the state.
Hand Letterer Jeff Gress Crafts Signs with Soul
The artist has hand-painted iconic signage for several local businesses.
Things to Do on O‘ahu in April 2026
Jam with Josh Tatofi, join the Hapalua Half Marathon, shop a curated local pop-up market, see a cultural multimedia art exhibit and more.
Re-use Hawai‘i Celebrates 20 Years with New and Returning Programs
Re-use Hawai‘i brings back the tool library and workshops, plus kicks off exciting new initiatives.
Chef Jason Peel Revitalizes Longtime Neighborhood Fave Diamond Head Market & Grill
The former chef-owner of Nami Kaze is rolling out ambitious projects at Diamond Head Market & Grill.
Sealily Ceramics Handmade Tiles Add an Artisanal Touch to Island Homes
Potter Yamuna Brennan draws inspiration from the ocean for her small-batch tiles but also offers custom work.
Connections
Our lives in Honolulu are intricately woven together.
Spill the Tea Café Expands Its Mental Health Services in a New, Larger Location
The nonprofit helps teens with their mental health by providing therapy as well as workshops and a safe space for them to hang out.
Hawai‘i Entrepreneurs Are Ready for the Spotlight at the East Meets West Conference
Blue Startups’ latest East Meets West conference in April aims to connect local startups with a global audience.
Explore the Origins of Hawai‘i’s Underground Music Scene in Local Unrest
Journalist Shawn “Speedy” Lopes uncovers the history of punk, indie and alternative music in the Islands.
La Tienda’s Kapa Kuiki Throw Pillows Pack a Punch
Maui painter and designer Pua Jauregui creates each Hawaiian quilt pattern by hand with punch needle techniques.
HONOLULU Family’s 2026 Hawai‘i Summer Programs Guide
Brush up on art, enhance your academics, or learn how to play an instrument or a new sport this summer.
