Hawaii Travel News 05/14/2011

Mt. Waialeale has long been referred to as the "wettest spot on earth" but a drying trend including higher temperatures and less rainfall mean it is no longer true. At least two spots internationally receive more rainfall, and a windward Maui location is now the wettest spot in the islands.

Now if this slideshow doesn't make you drool, I'm not sure what would. Ed Morita takes us through the best bakeries in Honolulu, including standards like Liliha Bakery and Leonard's Bakery, with a surprise at number one. Yum!

Maui travelers will soon have a new option for accommodation near the Kahului Airport, which is quite a drive from popular resort areas of Kihei/Wailea and Kaanapali/Lahaina. The Courtyard by Marriott Maui is slated to open in 2012.

While Kona coffee may get most of the spotlight, the Ka'u region of the Big Island also produces spectacular coffee. The annual Ka'u Coffee Festival gives coffee lovers a chance to see what sets this growing region apart.

This annual literary event takes place at the municipal grounds in Honolulu and will showcase local and national authors, publishers, and entertainment.

I couldn't agree more that Hawaii needs to reduce our oil dependency! Fortunately, I've noticed the gas prices have started falling – 10 cents/gallon in the past week at the station across my office.

Izakayas are popping up all over Honolulu, and you have to love the combination of amazing food with great sakes and other drinks! Here is a great listing of izakaya's to try.

A family enjoyed the experience of a lifetime Thursday morning when a pod of spinner dolphins swam up to them while they snorkeled at Honolua Bay. The dolphins put on a show before moving out to deeper water. 

Maui Mayor Alan Arakawa, an avid chess player, faced off with celebrity opponent Owen Wilson to raise $50,000 for Japan relief efforts.

Boys Day is celebrated on May 5th each year, and this article shows the Japanese tradition – very popular in Hawaii – of making and eating mochi for this special day. 

Six weeks after destructive tsunami waves forced the closure of the Four Seasons Resort Hualalai, the upscale vacation destination re-opened for guests on the sunny Kona coast on the Big Island of Hawaii.