Culture & History
Hawaiian history, place names, language, music and traditions.
How the Big Island of Hawaiʻi Was Formed: Volcanoes & Hotspots
Ever wondered how the massive island of Hawaiʻi came to be? The story is a dramatic tale of fire and earth, written over millions of years by a stationary volcanic hotspot deep beneath the Pacific Ocean.
Big Island Tsunamis: A History of an Unseen Coastal Force
The beautiful coastlines of Hawaiʻi Island have a powerful and sometimes tragic history shaped by tsunamis. Understanding this history and knowing the modern warning signs is essential for any visitor.
A Visitor's Guide to the Puakō Petroglyph Archaeological Preserve
Discover one of Hawaiʻi's largest collections of ancient rock carvings. This short, easy hike near the Kohala Coast offers a direct connection to the island's past.
A Visitor's Guide to Pidgin English in Hawaiʻi: Key Words
Headed to the islands? Pidgin is the unofficial-official language of Hawaiʻi. Our guide helps you understand this rich creole language to better appreciate local life and culture.
A Friendly Guide to Hawaiian Pidgin for Visitors
Ever heard someone say 'howzit' or 'broke da mout'? That's Hawaiian Pidgin. Here’s a friendly guide to understanding the unique creole language of Hawaiʻi.
A Visitor's Guide to Hawaiian Language Basics (ʻŌlelo Hawaiʻi)
Learning a few basics of the Hawaiian language, ʻŌlelo Hawaiʻi, is one of the best ways to show respect and deepen your connection to the islands. This guide covers simple pronunciation and key phrases.
A Visitor's Guide to the Puakō Petroglyphs on Hawaiʻi Island
Discover one of Hawaiʻi's most extensive collections of ancient rock carvings. This guide provides everything you need to know for a respectful visit to the sacred Puakō Petroglyph Archaeological Preserve.
A Traveler’s Guide to Hawaiian History on the Big Island
The Big Island of Hawaiʻi is a living museum, where epic tales of gods, chiefs, and kings are etched into the volcanic landscape. Discover the island's profound history, from ancient settlements to the unification of the kingdom.
Talk Story: Your Practical Guide to Hawaiian Pidgin Phrases
Heard words like 'da kine' or 'howzit' and felt a little lost? Our visitor's guide to Hawaiian Pidgin will help you understand the basics of Hawaiʻi's unique and beloved local language.
A Visitor's Guide to Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau National Park
Step back in time at Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau, a sacred Hawaiian place of refuge in South Kona. Our guide covers the history, what to see, and how to visit respectfully.
Finding the Best Lūʻau on the Big Island: A Visitor's Guide
Choosing a lūʻau on Hawaiʻi Island can be overwhelming. We break down the top options, from grand resort productions to more intimate gatherings, to help you find the perfect evening of food and Polynesian culture.
Big Island Petroglyphs: A Guide to Hawaiʻi's Ancient Carvings
The Big Island is home to vast fields of kīʻi pōhaku, or petroglyphs. We guide you to the best, most accessible sites and explain how to view these sacred carvings with respect.
A Guide to Hawaiian Heiau on the Big Island: 6 Sites to Visit
Heiau are sacred Hawaiian temples, powerful places of worship and connection. This guide introduces you to the history of heiau and details six significant sites on the Big Island that you can visit with respect.
Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau: A Visitor's Guide to the Place of Refuge
Explore one of Hawaiʻi's most sacred historical sites. This guide to Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau covers its deep history, what to see on your visit, and how to explore with respect.