I loved this article about 7 beautifully bizarre beaches around the US and elsewhere [link].  In particular, of relevance to Hawaii:

1. Red sand, Kaihalulu, Maui, Hawaii
When a a breach in the Earth’s crust lets loose a geyser of magma, the volcanic ash and material has to go somewhere, and, quite often, forms a massive conical structure called a cinder cone. At Kaihalulu Beach, an ancient cinder cone crumbles into a bay as the tide erodes it further, ensuring its inevitable total destruction. In the meantime, the sediment from the cinder cone forms this beach of red sand.
Photo: xoque

2. Green sand, Papakolea, Hawaii
Likewise, at the nearby Papakolea Beach, another cinder cone rich in olivine minerals — a common component of Hawaiian lava — spills forth a surreal pasture of dark green sand. The beach is found at the end of a long hike on the south of the Big Island.
Photo: Wikimedia Commons

The other beaches are in California, Bahamas, and Greece.

Source for this content:
http://matadortrips.com/photo-essay-7-beautifully-bizarre-beaches

I have a necklace and bracelet set I got from a farmers’ market in (Kona? Hilo?) Hawaii (Big Island) on my trip in 2007. It is made of seeds from the mgambo tree (latin: Majidea zanqueborica, orig. east Africa). I love the quality of the seed cover – organic, yet lush. Nature’s velvet. It’s apparently weather proof and will not lose it’s velvety touch. I wore it on our wedding day in 2008.

Other names for the Mgambo product/seed:

• Maambo
• Black Pearl
• African Velvet Seed
• Hawaiian Velvet Seed
• Weleweka (Hawaiian transliteration of ‘velvet’)

Here’s the vendor who sold me the jewelry: Kristof Baugher of “the Velvet Echo” (808-937-2081, thevelvetecho@yahoo.com, 143 Punahele St, Hilo HI 96720)

Here’s an etsy seller who has items made with mgambo seeds [ here ]

Day 1

Volcano

• Hawaii Volcanoes National Park - With steaming volcanic craters, rainforest lava tubes, stunning views, and live lava flows creating new sections of the park every day, it is no wonder that Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is visited by over two million people every year. The park offers the opportunity to explore two active volcanoes, Kilauea Volcano and Mauna Loa. Kilauea’s dramatic black hulk almost feels alive due to the constant volcanic activity, while Mauna Loa, at 13,000 feet, is the largest volcano on the planet.
• Jaggar Museum - This highly informative museum in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park will help you understand the fascinating, sometimes bizarre geology that makes the park so unique. You can see the some of the many different forms of lava, from the fine, needle-like lava called “Pele’s Hair” to the massive orbs of lava known as “Volcanic Bombs.”

Day 2

Hilo

• Pepe’ekeo Scenic Drive - Located 8 miles north of Hilo, the Pepe’ekeo Scenic Drive is 4 miles of gorgeous, unabated natural beauty. The lava pools, gurgling brooks, roaring waterfalls, and lush jungles evoke all that you dreamed about when you first got the idea to visit Hawaii. Make several stops for photos–although the road is narrow and windy, there are several turnouts for visitors to stop and smell the roses. Although this drive is just a short jaunt, it delivers the goods.
• Wailoa Center - One of Hilo’s premier centers for art and culture, the Wailoa Center is situated in the midst of vibrant Wailoa Park. A showplace for local artists as well as exhibitions of work from around the world, the center hosts the Spring Art Festival, one of the largest arts fairs in the state. A focal point of the local art scene, the center always has something interesting happening.
• Akaka Falls - The magnificent 442-foot drop of Akaka falls is at the same time Hawaii’s most dramatic waterfall and its most understated. The State Park is tucked into the extreme end of the island’s windward side, and seeing the falls involves an easy, paved half-mile walk from the parking area.

Day 3

Ka’u ‚Äì Pahala

• Punalu’u Beach Park* - The statue of a child swimming with turtles is at once elucidating and misleading. While this is an excellent place to spot turtles, swimming is not recommended. Nonetheless, this black sand beach houses a rare treat–turtles will bask in the sun and relax as you stroll by the ponds. This is a perfect place to simply chill out and feel at one with nature, as you soak in the experience. Don’t touch the turtles, as cute as they may be. It’s not because they bite, but the oil from our fingers can damage their shells.

Day 4

Kohala Coast

• Hapuna Beach Park - This beach has been voted the best beach in the United States on more than one occasion, and it is easy to see why. The beach is a half-mile strand of powder fine white sand that curves into the distance, fringed by palm trees on one side and perfect blue ocean waves on the other. This is a great beach for swimming, and a lifeguard is usually on duty. A reef at the south end of the beach offers excellent snorkeling.
• Parker Ranch Visitor Center & Museum - Founded in 1847 and with over 150,000 acres of land, Parker Ranch is one of the oldest and biggest ranches in the United States. The ranch lies at the heart of the Hawaiian paniolo, (Hawaiian cowboy) tradition. The ranch has been an integral part of the history and development of the Waimea area, and the visitor center and museum provides informative exhibits on the background of the ranch and the important affects it has had on the surrounding communities.

Day 5

Waikoloa

• Waikoloa Petroglyph Preserve - These petroglyphs, or stone inscriptions, were etched into the face of the mountain centuries ago. Featuring thousands of facsimiles of turtles, canoes, and other mysterious carvings, the Waikoloa Petroglyph Preserve is one of the most fascinating ways to witness the unique culture of native Hawaii.
• ‘Anaeho’omalu Beach Park - Supported by a background of hundreds of graceful coconut palm trees, ‘Anaeho’omalu Beach is famous for its awe-inspiring sunsets. Tranquil waters allow for leisurely swimming and snorkeling, and there are quite a few small inlets along the shoreline, which are nearly always vacant. Upon close examination, you will frequently stumble on Hawaiian sea turtles swimming in the shallows, especially at the south end of the bay.

Day 6

Kona – Up Country

• Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden - A stunningly beautiful area on the verdant Hamakua Coast, Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden is the highlight of many people’s trip to the island. The extensive 40-acre garden is tucked into a sheltered valley, which enables even very delicate non-native tropical flowers to flourish alongside the many examples of Hawaiian flora.
• Donkey Mill Art Center - Coffee beans are not the only thing to sprout from the fertile soil in Holualoa; a lively art scene has also bloomed from the same grounds. Located in a lively art community, the Donkey Mill Art Center is the place to see local artists exhibit their wares. Visitors can also take art classes for a fee, as well as other classes such as ukulele and slack-key guitar. Visit the Donkey Mill Art Center to see the best-named location on the Big Island.
• Holualoa Kona Coffee Company - Located on the beautiful upland slopes, the Kona Lea Plantation of the Holualoa Kona Coffee Company has lovely views out over the Kona coast, and is an ideal spot to learn about one of the island’s most important exports. You can tour the plantation, which uses entirely organic farming techniques, and then check out the roasting facilities, where the aroma of fresh roasting coffee will have you salivating for a cup of joe. Luckily, a free cup awaits you at the end of the tour.

Day 7

Kona Airport – Kealakekua

• Pu’uhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park - The ancient Hawaiians were governed by a strict set of rules, called kapus, which were rigidly enforced. Interestingly, the Hawaiians also valued the concept of refuges, or pu‚Äôuhonua, which were certain designated places where those who were pursued–either for breaking kapu or as defeated warriors–could go and be absolutely safe from harm. Later, the refuge seeker could ask a priest for absolution for their crime and return home. This 182-acre park built on the site of such a refuge, and there is indeed a sense of calm and protection that permeates the place. Even sea turtles and humpback whales seek out this beautiful spot. Besides the pu‚Äôuhonua complex, you can see temple platforms, ancient fishponds, and several ancient villages.
• Onizuka Space Center - Located in the airport, this small museum is dedicated to the memory of Ellison Onizuka, one of the astronauts killed in the Challenger explosion as well as the first Hawaiian in space. The museum packs in a lot of interesting items. The space fanatic in your family can see a real moon rock, a gravity well, and use a propulsion simulator to launch a miniature model of the space shuttle. Personal items of Ellison Onizuka are also on display.

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Hawaiian Air is currently running a promotion with some fun ideas for traveling on the different islands. This sample itinerary was sourced directly from here.

Day 1

North

• Hanalei Valley - The best way to enjoy Hanalei Valley is from the Hanalei Valley Lookout on the edge of Highway 56. On the valley floor is a one-way truss bridge that was constructed in 1912, a quaint reminder of Hawaii’s past and laid-back present. Across from the manicured, man-made Princeville Resort, the natural beauty of the valley is something to marvel at. Here taro patches, green leaves, and shimmering waters mix to create a scenic masterpiece. This is simply one of the most beautiful places on the island, so be sure to take your camera.
• Tunnels Beach - Tunnels Beach is an excellent snorkeling spot, famous for its clear waters and friendly sea creatures. Spanning over two miles, the center of the beach is a crescent-shaped reef that protects the water from currents and makes it perfect for viewing eels, turtles, and other sea life.

Day 2

North

• Na Pali Coast* - The name Na Pali refers to the series of pali, or cliffs, along a 17-mile stretch of coastline separated by lush river valleys. The cliffs rise up to 4,000 feet straight out of the ocean and can be viewed by air or by boat. However you do it, the incredible cliffs are a Kauai must-see. This is without doubt one of the most beautiful and pristine stretches of coastline in the world.

Day 3

North

• Na’aina Kai Botanical Gardens - Na’aina Kai, meaning “Lands by the Sea” in Hawaiian, is a unique and dazzling collection of gardens spanning over 240 acres. An amalgam of 13 different collections, this is a virtual cornucopia for plant lovers. Formal gardens, wild gardens, desert gardens, children’s gardens, and sculpture gardens await you in this incredible feast for the eyes. Bring the family as well because your children are sure to enjoy the gardens custom-tailored just for them.
• Kilauea Lighthouse - This promontory is the northernmost point in the state. Walk out to the lighthouse, and beyond, to feel the power of the Pacific. Back in the little village of Kilauea, stop in at the old general store, visit one of the fruit smoothie stands alongside the main road, and pop into one of the few tiny (but worthy) shops.

Day 4

East

• Kamokila Village - Once the village where Kauai’s last king, Kaumualii, had his home, Kamokila Village allows you to experience life in an ancient Hawaiian settlement. Besides the carefully preserved remains of the village, a number of thatched huts have been carefully recreated to provide an accurate look at life in pre-contact Hawaii. Demonstrations of ancient Hawaiian arts, crafts, and games bring the past alive.
• Fern Grotto - Only accessible by trip up the the Wailua River, the Fern Grotto is a lava cave that is completely covered by natural ferns. A nearby waterfall creates cooling mists. The spot’s idyllic beauty will captivate you, just as it long captivated Hawaiian royalty, who were once the only people allowed to visit this sacred spot.
• Lydgate Park - The ideal beach park for families with children, Lydgate Park, on Kauai’s Coconut Coast, also boasts some of the best snorkeling on the island. The huge playground is any kid’s dream, and two pools created from lava rocks provide protected swimming and snorkeling for both children and adults. The lava rocks that form the pool create almost an artificial reef, and you can see an impressive variety of fish.

Day 5

East – West

• Kilohana Plantation - A historic sugar cane plantation house that has been restored to include shops and a restaurant, Kilohana also offers horse carriage tours of the beautiful grounds of the plantation. The plantation house, built for Plantation owner Gaylord Wilcox in 1935, was the first mansion on Kaua’i. Besides shopping and the well-regarded Gaylord’s restaurant, art galleries at the plantation showcase fine art by prominent artists.
• Salt Pond Beach Park - A safe, usually calm beach that is also home to one of the only remaining, actively used salt ponds in Hawaii. Native Hawaiians still collect salt here using the traditional methods used by their ancestors. The beach itself is protected by rock outcroppings at either end, making it ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and body surfing. Tide pools created by lava outcroppings and old salt pans are fascinating places to explore. Restrooms, showers, and well developed picnic facilities with tables and grills make this a great place to spend a day.
• Kauai Coffee Company - The largest coffee grower in the state of Hawaii is not on the famous Kona coast on the Big Island–in fact, the Kauai Coffee Company by itself produces more coffee than the entire Kona growing region. A visit to this 3,400 acre coffee plantation, once a part of the McBryde sugar plantation, will put you in touch with the rich land and heritage of Hawaii, as you learn about Kauai‚Äôs most famous and valuable export. Don’t worry, you get free coffee, too.

Day 6

West

• Waimea Brewing Company - Tucked away in a coconut grove on the western shore of Kaua’i, the Waimea Brewing Company offers eight different microbrews on tap and is known for its great seafood and excellent Hawaiian-style pupus. The brewery’s two mainstay beers are its flavorful Waimea Bay Pale Ale and the lighter Luau Lager, but its Wai’ale’ale Ale, named for the mountain in Kaua’i whose summit is said to be the wettest spot on earth, is also a favorite. Live music gently rocks this friendly, laid-back brewery several times a week.
• Waimea Canyon - The largest canyon in the Pacific, Waimea Canyon is certainly one of the most impressive natural features in the country. Often called the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific,” its awesome cliffs, dramatic waterfalls, and rich mix of lush green and deep purple hues certainly rival the splendor of Arizona’s Grand Canyon.

Day 7

South

• Koloa - Koloa is more than a collection of shops and eateries connected by an old wooden walkway. The wild west-like town is inextricably linked with sugar. After having lunch, check out the sugar history museum, the memorial to sugar plantation workers, the Jodo Mission (Japanese immigrants were integral to the industry), and the old sugar mill.
• Po’ipu Beach - Recently voted “America’s Best Beach,” Po’ipu Beach has something for everyone. Actually, Po’ipu is a collection of several beaches nestled together, forming an affluent beach community surrounded by excellent restaurants, shops, and other fun destinations. There is a myriad of activities available here, including horseback riding, snorkeling, windsurfing, and just about anything else that can be done on a beach. Make a visit to Po’ipu Beach–no Kauai vacation is complete without it!

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Hawaiian Air is currently running a promotion with some fun ideas for traveling on the different islands. This sample itinerary was sourced directly from here.

Day 1

Haleakala – Up Country

• Haleakala National Park - Haleakala is the shield volcano on east Maui that formed most of the island and is Maui’s most popular landmark. The Haleakala National Park stretches out over 28,000 acres and includes the summit where the crater lies, the mountain and its wilderness, and the coastal Kipahulu area. A visit to the summit of the volcano should be a must on anyone’s visit to Maui for the stunning views and unparalleled rich natural beauty. A visit to the 10,023 foot peak, Maui’s tallest point, at sunrise is a popular option, while other visitors chose to hike through the wilderness or cycle down the mountain.
• Makawao - Makawao, dense with art galleries and one-of-a-kind shops (many featuring women’s clothing), makes a worthy day-trip from South Maui or West Maui. If you can’t believe that Old World cowboys can peacefully co-exist with New Age crystal worshippers, you haven’t been to Makawao. Hitch your car up to a hitching post (alongside a horse, perhaps!) and saunter down the old wooden boardwalks. Seeing is believing.

Day 2

Kahului – Wailuku

• Tropical Gardens of Maui - To see this four-acre riot of color now, you’d never guess that not so long ago it was just a treeless, empty lot. This beautiful botanical garden and export plant nursery was built in 1987 as a showcase for tropical plants from all over the world. It’s scenically situated in the Iao Valley, and a self-guided tour on the property takes you through the garden, across Iao Stream, and passes a koi pond and palm grotto. Along the half-hour walk, you’ll see exotic blooms and plants you’ll swear came out of a Dr. Seuss book, including stunning orchids and the Raphia palm, which sports leaves up to 60 feet in length, the longest of anything in the plant kingdom.
• Iao Valley State Park - The Iao Valley is one of the most distinct and breathtaking areas in Maui, where mountains reach high into the sky and then suddenly plunge again into the ocean, their craggy rock faces covered with lush vines and plants. One of the most recognizable formations is the Iao Needle, a steep pinnacle overlooking the Iao stream. This was an historical altar where warriors would make sacrifices as they looked upon the surrounding Pu’u Kukui Crater.
• Maui Arts and Cultural Center - Since 1994, the Maui Arts & Cultural Center has offered top-notch musical and artistic events. Actually, by offering a full schedule of theater, live musical performance, dance, and more, MCC has become the epicenter of Maui’s art scene. Check out their website to see upcoming performances and events, so that once you’ve had your fill of Maui’s natural beauty, you can witness its cultural depth as well.

Day 3

Hana

• Road to Hana* - The drive itself is the thing to be experienced. So, if your personality is more attuned to the destination rather than the process, choose something else to do. You can expect dozens of one-lane bridges, more than a handful of waterfalls, too-numerous-to-count panoramic vistas of open ocean and verdant valleys, and slow going. Start out early, and take the whole day. If you can’t spend the night in Hana, many guidebooks recommend that you return before nightfall.
• Hana - Hana is a small town that is most famous for the road that leads to it. On the one-of-a-kind road to Hana, you will find sacred pools, waterfalls, lush jungles, and incredible views. Once you’ve arrived, you can stop by the nearby botanical gardens if your desire for natural beauty hasn’t been slaked by the drive over.
• Garden of Eden Arboretum & Botanical Garden - Located just past mile marker 10 on the road to Hana (Highway 36) are the verdant tropical gardens where the opening sequence of “Jurassic Park” was filmed. The 26-acre park, designed by Alan Bradbury with the aim of restoring the area’s natural ecosystem, contains 500+ trees, plants and flowers native to the Pacific islands.

Day 4

Wailea – Makena

• Molokini* - This small island is situated two and a half miles off Maui’s south coast. Molokini was once an active volcano (now extinct) but is now an ideal site for snorkeling and other aquatic trips. Its shape creates a natural barrier from currents and waves, making its calm waters one of the finest spots in the world for diving. It is also a State Marine Life and Bird Conservation District, so you cannot actually visit the island itself. However, you’re free to enjoy its spectacular aquatic beauty, so take advantage.

Day 5

Kihei – Maalaea

• Kalepolepo Beach Park - Kalepolepo Beach Park is a small beach with some of the best swimming waters in Maui. Since it is wedged between two seawalls, the water is calm and perfect for younger swimmers. What once was a Hawaiian village and fishpond is now a popular sand and sun destination for beach-bound visitors. Curious visitors can visit the nearby Koieie Fishpond, one of the last remaining testaments to Hawaii’s ancient technique of aquaculture.
• Pi’ilani Highway - The Pi’ilani Hwy (otherwise known as Highway 31) is a winding highway that hugs the southern coast of Maui. This scenic drive is one of the main arteries of the island; it connects North Kihei to South Kihei, and Wailea and Makena are also stops along the way. Farther along you’ll find Lahaina, after merging with Honoapi’ilani Highway. Traveling along the Pi’ilani Highway is a kind of Zen experience–you will find that the path is just as important as the destination.
• Maui Ocean Center - While it might seem superfluous to visit sea creatures in an aquarium when all you have to do is don a snorkel, mask, and fins, nothing could be farther from the truth. Whatever you do, don’t miss it. From the living coral and plentiful reef fish to the walk-through tunnel that makes you feel like you’re in the ocean with sharks and rays, it’s all magnificent.

Day 6

Lahaina

• Whalers Village Museum - This little museum, tucked into a bastion of commercialism (an upscale, outdoor mall), packs a serious punch. Upon close inspection, and with the devotion of time, you can almost become an expert on the whaling industry. There’s no better place to do it, unless you go to New Bedford or Nantucket (in Massachusetts). Before leaving the shopping center, check out the sperm whale skeleton.
• Banyan Tree Park - It’s hard to believe that a tree could take up an entire city block, but it does. Entire lives seem to be lived beneath its thick branches and under its wise gaze. Pause on a bench and try to take it all in. Sailors and others have come and gone in Lahaina, but this tree has remained.

Day 7

Lahaina – Ka’anapali

• Ka’anapali Beach - As West Maui’s most popular beach, Ka’anapali Beach is characterized by its large resorts, golf courses, plenty of beach sports and activities, as well as a large shopping and dining complex–all in the heart of Ka’anapali. The beach, which is public and can be accessed through the resorts and shopping area, is a hotspot for windsurfing, snorkeling, catamarans, and any number of ocean toys, not to mention sunbathing and playing in the waves.
• Hale Kahiko - A hale kahiko is an archaic Hawaiian thatched-roof house. Each hale was built for a specific function, such as sleeping, cooking or crafts. This replica of a Hawaiian village features three hale filled with ancient implements and furnishings. Beautifully landscaped grounds contain several species of indigenous trees and plants. A free guided tour is available, or for those preferring to set their own agenda, a map is available at no cost. Hula and craft demonstrations are held at random times during the week.
• Sugar Cane Train - In the early days of Hawaii’s Western colonization, trains were used to haul sugar cane from one spot to the other. Eventually, more modern forms of transportation became popular, and today almost nothing can be seen of the original Hawaiian railroads. However, the tracks between Lahaina and Ka’anapali are still functional, and the cherry-red Sugar Cane Train still travels them regularly. A dinner ride is available on Thursdays.

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Hawaiian Air is currently running a promotion with some fun ideas for traveling on the different islands. This sample itinerary was sourced directly from here.

Day 1

Leeward

• Arizona Memorial – Pearl Harbor Monument - On December 7, 1941, the battleship USS Arizona was sunk, taking 1,100 sailors with it. In 1961, a solemn white monument was erected above the midsection of the ship. The deck of the Arizona lies now six feet below the surface of Pearl Harbor and is clearly visible from the monument. Take the shuttle launch from shore to the monument and view the dark shape of a once-great ship with its silent crew. Free guided tours are offered 8am-3pm, daily. Visit the Battleship Missouri Memorial afterward.
• Hawaii’s Plantation Village - This theme park styled village serves two purposes: to entertain and to educate. Hawaii’s economy once centered on the cultivation of pineapple and sugar. While things have changed since the 19th century, these crops are still important island exports. This attraction showcases plantation life through exhibits and restored plantation houses.

Day 2

Central – North Shore

• Hale’iwa - If you only have time to explore one thing outside Waikiki and Honolulu, let it be the little, atmospheric town of Hale’iwa. It’s got beach bums, surfer dudes, groovy artists, drop-out bohemians, wealthy folks chillin’out, distinctive shops, a perfectly situated harbor, great beaches, and eateries that range from holes-in-the-wall to sunset-ready fine dining. Spend a lazy afternoon and you’ll drive away with a real glimpse of Oahu.
• North Shore Surf and Cultural Museum - To glimpse into the history of surfing and the culture of the North Shore, visit this collection of old and new memorabilia and follow the evolution of surfboards in this funky, volunteer-run surf museum.
• Waimea Bay Beach Park* - When someone hears the name “Waimea,” chances are that images of 20-foot waves and daredevil surf monsters come to mind. That stereotype is correct. This beach is ranked among the top ten big-wave surf spots in the world, and when the waves are high, hardcore surfers come from the far corners of the globe to test their mettle. Novices are discouraged from swimming in the wintertime, which is the big-wave season at this beach. During the summer it is usually safe to take a dip, but make sure to consult the lifeguard first.

Day 3

Downtown Honolulu

• Chinatown - This exciting historic neighborhood, located in downtown Honolulu, represents a colorful and eclectic blend of Southeast Asian cultures. A vast array of fresh produce and delicacies awaken the senses of both visitors and residents within this fifteen-block district, whose vivid history is an essential component to Hawaii’s chronicle. Come to browse art galleries, see an acupuncturist, or sample exotic fare in this unique cultural cornucopia.
• Foster Botanical Garden - For a brief hiatus from city life, duck into this garden. It is the oldest of the five Honolulu Botanical Gardens. The mission of the organization is “to plan, develop, curate, maintain and study documented collections of tropical plants in an aesthetic setting.” Highlights include a palm collection, Lyon Orchid Garden, a prehistoric glen and a number of trees rated “exceptional” for their beauty and rarity. Pick up a souvenir at the Foster Garden Gallery and Bookshop.
• Hawaii Children’s Discovery Center - Children are encouraged to learn about a diverse range of subjects at this busy, colorful facility. It offers a number of fanciful interactive displays and learning toys. Every subject from physiology to sociology is explored. Tour the “Global Village” or play a game of volleyball…with a robot!

Day 4

East Honolulu

• Hanauma Bay Marine Preserve* - Famed for its beautiful horseshoe-shaped sandy beach and clear, calm turquoise waters, this natural marine sanctuary is home to thousands of colorful tropical fish. The waist-deep water inside the reef is perfect for novice snorkelers to explore. More experienced snorkelers might want to check with the lifeguard before venturing beyond to deeper waters to see sea turtles and other marine life. The bay is least crowded in the early morning or late afternoon.

Day 5

Waikiki

• Honolulu Zoo - Located at the northern part of Kapiolani Park, the Honolulu Zoo is home to over 300 species of animals on more than 42 acres of land. The zoo features an African Savanna complete with gazelles, rhinos, cheetahs, giraffes and more.
• Waikiki Aquarium - You might think it redundant or ironic to watch fish in an aquarium when the mighty Pacific Ocean surrounds the islands, but this aquarium is well worth a visit. You’ll learn so much about the fish you snorkeled with yesterday that you’ll want to don a mask and fins again tomorrow.
• Diamond Head State Monument - Recognized as one of the most famous volcanic craters, Diamond Head is certainly the island’s most famous landmark. The 760-foot tall crater lies at the end of Waikiki and serves as a recognizable backdrop to the Honolulu skyline. Diamond Head, which is part of the Honolulu volcanic series of eruptions, is about 200,000 years old and is said to have been extinct for 150,000 years. Today, it’s a popular hiking destination with some paved trails, a tunnel, and an observation deck.

Day 6

Manoa

• Manoa Falls - Tucked in the back of lush Manoa Valley is this waterfall, which is commonly thought to be one of the most beautiful sights on Oahu. It rushes over a precipice and drops 100 feet to the pool below. The hike to the waterfall takes approximately an hour and is not particularly difficult. The trail can get slippery during the rain, but on sunny days, it’s clearly marked and easy to follow.
• Harold L. Lyon Arboretum - Less a botanical plant garden and more a wooded, trail-filled forest, this research institution is a paradise on earth. Leave time to hike up to Aihualama Falls, about 1 1/2 miles from the park entrance.

Day 7

Windward

• Sea Life Park - Dolphin and sea lion shows, a Hawaiian monk seal center, a sea turtle lagoon and a seabird sanctuary are a few of the highlights at this 62-acre ocean theme park on the coast of East Oahu. The park’s newest attraction is Pirate’s Lagoon, a themed play area for kids. Serious marine biology takes place at the rehabilitation center for endangered marine life. Other facilities include eateries and gift shops. Interactive dolphin programs and reef walks are also available.
• Byodo-In Temple - At the foot of the Ko’olau Mountains stands a replica of a 900-year-old Buddhist temple in Uji, Japan. The graceful vermilion complex is surrounded by the largest Japanese garden outside Japan. At the temple entrance hangs a sobering three-ton bronze bell‚Äîring it before entering the sanctuary to purify the mind of evil and temptation, then meditate to to the nine-foot-tall statue of the Buddha. More than 10,000 carp live in a two-acre reflecting pool and wild peacocks stroll the grounds freely.
• Kailua Beach Park* - Windsurfers, a breed apart from regular humans and similar to wave surfers, travel from far-distant corners of the world to hit this top windsurfing beach. When the water is flat, they simply sit and wait. When the wind starts, they head here in droves. If you are not a windsurfer, you can still enjoy the warm waters and gentle surf of this famous, beautiful beach. Barbecue facilities, bathrooms, and showers are available.

Hawaiian Air is currently running a promotion with some fun ideas for traveling on the different islands. This sample itinerary was sourced directly from here.

I finally had a chance to finish editing photos from my session on the Kona side of the Big Island Hawaii with beautiful Sonja (remember her?). We shot near a black sand beach.  A beautiful person, Sonja and I had some fun doing “J Crew style” headshots (yes, she wore a sweater in Hawaii!) and then she wanted to do some sexy shots with a couple of sporty outfits. Fun!

[ view selected images here ]

I’ve been waiting to share these links to two excellent articles for photographers…

Battle the Burnout
Millie Holloman

Stocking the Pond: One Photographer’s Need for Sabbatical
Julie Harris

Our Hawaii experience is a lovely way to sabbatical with others who know the joys and frustrations you experience as a working photographer. It’s so important to take time to reflect on your life and business.

Alfred and Patty at the Little Chapel of the Flowers in Ka’a'awa, Hawaii on December 6th, 2008.

A few weeks ago I had the coincidental honor of meeting up with Chicago-based photographer Monica and her husband Chris to third-shoot her cousin Patty’s Oahu wedding. Patty and Al are marine biologists (fact check?!) currently doing research in Oahu, and it was fun to see what some temporary locals did with the wedding.

Patty’s a detail person, so everything seemed to be just so. The standout item for me was the dinner, which was prepared (the main dish speared earlier that day!) by the caterer who was this big friendly, down-to-earth guy who seems like he could teach you a lot about life. The local food and delicious island fruits kind of blew me away after thinking Zippy’s plate lunch was “typical hawaiian.” I wish I knew who he was. Yum!! (No photos; I was on break!)

As a third shooter for this wedding, I concerned myself mostly with details of place and environmental wedding shots, rather than the typical primary photographer’s bridal party focus, or the secondary photographer’s guest focus. I had fun watching Monica and Chris interact, and enjoyed having enough time to get some shots of the hugest ring in the history of all mankind (did you see it??!), as well as grab some really fun interaction shots between family members.

Amy, my dear friend and colleague who is here in Key West with me, saw this mother-son photo and just shared that she is already dreaming about the day when she will dance with her son at his wedding. He’s 2 1/2, and Amy demonstrated the embrace she has when she holds him to rock him to sleep. The mother-son dance is indeed often a special wedding moment… this one was absolutely stunning in its beauty.

[ more photos here ]