Who We Are
So many of us have roots in small local businesses. Our Best of HONOLULU issue celebrates not just what they sell, but also what they uphold.
From the Magazine
Local Musical Peace on Your Wings Travels to Hiroshima for the 80th Anniversary of the Atomic Bombings
The ‘Ohana Arts production tells the story of Sadako Sasaki, known for folding 1,000 paper cranes to wish for her recovery from radiation-based leukemia.
Things to Do on O‘ahu in Summer 2025 (Part 2)
Celebrate the spirit of summer at cultural festivals, shop made-in-Hawai‘i products and see Japanese artist Ado live in concert.
Venison Tartare, Haole Koa Capers, Strawberry Guava Pastries: Where and How to Eat Our Invasive Species
Invasive species are bad for Hawai‘i’s ecosystem. The best way to vanquish our enemies? Eat them.
Listen Up! Hawai‘i Podcasts You Need to Hear
These community-minded podcasts can help cut through the confusion of our state’s most pressing concerns.
A Former Sushi Chef Sells and Sharpens Knives at Aframes Tokyo in Kalihi
Revisiting that time we found an off-the-beaten-path stall selling top-line handmade knives and everyday knives at City Square’s open market.
Hawai‘i’s Historic Homes
They reveal our past and offer a richer understanding of who we are. We look at three neighborhoods full of these gems.
2024 HONOLULU Book Awards
In selecting our 2024 winners in seven categories, we considered heart, breadth of audience, readability and connection.
Taimane Weaves Turkish and Hawaiian Mythology in “Serpentwined”
The ‘ukulele artist shot the enchanting video for her latest single at Shangri La Museum.
Why These Stories?
In this issue, we celebrate historic homes, mu‘umu‘u, lei and Hawai‘i books, all reflections of our unique history and culture.
Kaukau and Kūkākūkā with Kalani Pe‘a
Over malasadas and lettuce wraps, the Grammy-winning singer-songwriter talks about his bold path as a Hawaiian, from Pana‘ewa to Carnegie Hall.
The Things I Carried
Since leaving Hawai‘i for Southern California, life remains an adjustment.
Turmeric Is Having a Moment
You’ll see the root remedy everywhere these days at farmers markets, grocery stores and more.
Pursuits: Margaret Okimoto Waltzes Through Life
Now in her mid-70s, Margaret Okimoto discovered her true self on the dance floor.
Leading With Pride: An Interview With Kathleen O’Dell
Kathleen O’Dell shares her vision for the Hawai‘i State LGBTQ+ Commission.
Things to Do on O‘ahu in Summer 2025 (Part 1)
See the dramedy play that inspired a Netflix sitcom, join the lantern floating ceremony, jam with Maoli and welcome bon dance season.
Bloom Bloom, Pow! These Flower-Blocked Lei Pack a Punch
Stamen + Style creates bold new looks for lei by mixing and matching different blocks of blooms.
Where to Find Forever Lei for Your Home
It’s easily one of our favorite home décor trends of late—creative takes on forever lei, crafted with pua and leaves made of glass, leather and stone.
Niu Soft Serve’s Hot Kūlolo Sundae Is Its Top Seller (and It’s Vegan)
‘Aiku‘e and Kekahu Napoleon-Ahn opened a coconut-based ice cream shop. They didn’t expect to spend more of their time making kūlolo.
In the Mood for Lei: Where to Take Lei-Making Classes on O‘ahu
Here’s where to celebrate Lei Day: we’ve rounded up the many places offering intro classes on the Islands’ signature floral craft.
Mu‘umu‘u Moments
The classic Hawai‘i garment feels decidedly fresh again, with local designers dreaming up exciting iterations for all occasions.
Advocating for Native Hawaiian Programs Amid Federal Cuts
Federal cuts and policy shifts are threatening various programs that support Native Hawaiian health care, housing, education and more.
Heads Up: Real ID Deadline Is May 7
Here’s what you need to apply for a Real ID with a gold star.
How to Grow Your Own Lei Garden
Dreaming of a lei garden of your own? This is your sign to dig in with tips from a horticulturist and a guidebook.
