Hawaii Condo

Maui Condos - Maui Hotels - Maui Vacations - Rental Maui Hawaii Vacations HOME Advertising Press Privacy Visitors Currently Online: 116 Activities Island Info Where to Stay Maui Weddings Spas Coupons iNews Forum Maui Cams Maui Video Maui Condos, Maui Hotels and Maui Vacations South Maui Condos North Kihei South Kihei Wailea Ask us... M aui Activities TIPS. West Maui Condos Aston Kaanapali Shores Aston Papakea Aston Mahana Maui Eldorado Napili Bay Resort Lahaina Shores Paki Maui Sands of Kahana Napili Shores Maui Kai Paki Maui Maui Islander Royal Lahaina Ask us... M aui Activities TIPS. Hawaii Vacations Airline Tickets SPECIALS & Fly/Drive PACKAGES Norwegian Cruises Car Rentals Maui Condos and Maui Hotels - Hawaii Vacations We represent Maui's TOP Vacations Rentals. Finding Maui Condos and Maui Hotels on our island is not easy if you aren't there at the right moment to make reservations. We will make every effort to accommodate your request in a timely fashion. PLEASE give us the opportunity to makeyour stay on Maui a memorable one. If you're having trouble finding a place to stay or simply haven't the time to conduct a search on your own, visit our Reservation Desk and let us do the searching for you! As our #1 concern is to get you a place to stay on Maui. Few places on earth are as blessed as Maui, Hawaii, a tropical island of legendary beauty and rich history. Even within the Hawaiian islands it's referred to as "Maui No Ka Oi" or Maui is the best. As a complement to its ideal climate, Maui has a variety of spectacular natural wonders. World-famous beaches, lush Iao Valley, Haleakala volcano, Molokini crater-island, pastoral Upcountry, the tropical Hana coast and Seven Pools are just a few of the fascinating sights. The sports enthusiast will find great opportunities for championship golf, tennis, windsurfing, surfing, scuba, snorkeling, biking, hiking, and deep sea fishing. Other popular activities include shopping in the old whaling port of Lahaina, whale watching and dining in Maui's many fine restaurants. You might say it just doesn't get any better than this! Did you know Ka'anapali was selected as the nation's best beach? Having a resort as its backdrop didn't stop Dr. Beach from choosing Ka'anapali as the best beach in the nation, the ninth time a Hawai'i strand has won that honor. Dr. Beach, coastal expert Stephen Leatherman, chose Po'ipu Beach on Kaua'i two years ago, and like Po'ipu, Maui's Ka'anapali is a resort beach. Leatherman doesn't mind some hotels, as long as the beach itself isn't too crowded by them. Folks at the Ka'anapali hotels said they're pleased, but not surprised at the designation. "The connectivity down from Black Rock all the way to Canoe Beach, softsand, a wide beach, both tranquil water for snorkeling and surf for surfing andboogie boarding — we think that it's one of the great beaches," saidBarry Lewin, general manager of the Hyatt Regency Maui Resort and Spa, whichanchors the southern end of the beach. When Dr. Beach, a meteorologist and professor at Florida International University in Miami, selects a shoreline as his favorite for the year, it's taken out of the running permanently, but Hawai'i does not appear to be running short. Three other Hawaiian beaches made it into Leatherman's top 10 this year: Hanalei on Kaua'i, Makalawena on Hawai'i and Hanauma on O'ahu. Previous Hawai'i winners were Po'ipu in 2001, Mauna Kea Beach in 2000, Wailea in 1999, Kailua Beach in 1998, Hulopo'e in 1997, Lanikai in 1996, Hapuna in 1993 and Kapalua in 1991. Condo rentals in 96761,96767and 96753 areas Hawaii, USA © 1998-2004 ParadiseMaui.Com. All rights reserved

Maui Windsurfing

Vela Windsurf Resorts wind reports accommodations equipment lessons kitesurfing staff tips and facts other activities got kids? feedback photos map WHAT TO BRING: There are a few things we don't want you to forget. Here are two lists: Airline tickets The enclosed Vela vouchers for car, condo, and/or equipment (you need to exchange these for services) Current driver's license and major credit card in name of rental car driver (you will need these to rent your car) Extra spending money (see "CASH/CREDIT CARDS" below) Paperback books for flights and evenings (The following items are all available in wonderful variety on Maui; you may want to pack light and roomy and bring home some island-grown gear.) We do recommend you bring: shorty wetsuit and/or thermal rashguard, booties, harness Gloves to prevent blisters while sailing 100% UV sunglasses w/ eyeglass retainer (floating) Waterproof sunscreen lotion (oil makes board slippery) Beach towel (condo towels just don't do the job) Helmet and/or PFD, if desired. Light jacket/windbreaker To avoid the inconvenience of lost luggage, we recommend that you pack light enough to carry on your luggage. Check with your airline for carry on restrictions. At the least, carry on all those items that you would need to fully enjoy your first few days. If you are on a "Complete Rig" package, your package includes use of a complete board and rig, including two sails (w/ correct masts). This easily handles the needs of most people. Many people who have brought some of their own sails have reported that they stayed in their bags the whole trip. Also, the airlines can charge you up to $150 each way if they know you are checking "windsurfing equipment". However, you may feel you want to bring one or two small sails with you and choose the larger ones from Vela Maui so that you will have other sails at your disposal while at the beach. Have any questions about odd sails, etc? Feel free to call Vela Maui before you go. PACKING FOR THE WEATHER : Maui is a lush tropical destination. The rain that produces the lush vegetation is more frequent in the winter months, so expect it to be a little wetter and somewhat cooler in winter, drier and a bit warmer in summer. Generally it will be in the mid-80's during the day and slightly cooler at night. In the "Upcountry" area or up on the rim of Haleakala crater, it can be much cooler. Bring a light jacket for evenings and a very warm one if you plan on catching the spectacular sunrise on top of Haleakala. People dress casually on the island. Only in some of the most expensive restaurants would a coat or dress be expected. You might want to leave a little space in your luggage for clothing acquired in Maui; some people consider Maui a paradise for shopping as well. CASH/CREDIT CARDS: We recommend that you bring some cash, travelers checks and a major credit card. The Maui Windsurf Company will accept credit cards for any additional services or goods you may want to purchase on-site. Most establishments on the island accept major credit cards. We suggest you bring extra cash or traveler's checks of at least $50 per person per day of stay. You may go home with most of it, but if you want it, you'll have it. Documents CHECK YOUR DOCUMENTS NOW for accuracy and then RECONFIRM ALL FLIGHT TIMES with your airline before you go to the airport. If your flight arrival time is different than the "time" printed on your green Dollar Rent-a-Car voucher, please call Dollar at 800-367-7006 and update your reservation, noting date, time and the name of the Dollar agent on your corrected voucher. (Dollar will automatically cancel your reservation if your car is not picked up within two hours of this time.) UPON ARRIVAL AT MAUI'S KAHULUI AIRPORT : Unless you've carried on all your luggage, the driver indicated on your Dollar Rent-a-Car voucher should catch the Dollar shuttle vehicle to Dollar's base yard. Any others in your party can collect checked luggage and be ready to be picked up by the driver in your party. The Dollar desk will be open until 10:00 PM. If you are renting a vehicle through Vela Maui, see notes below. DOLLAR RENT-A-CAR: Dollar will offer collision damage and personal injury insurance at a significant additional daily rate. We recommend you check with your own car insurer before leaving for Maui; your policy may already include such coverage. Regardless, as is standard with all rental car companies, Dollar will require a signed, blank imprint of your credit card or a cash deposit. Depending on your situation, there may be some other charges not payable in advance of the return of your car. Dollar has a minimum driver age of 25 (or additional $15 plus tax per day for ages 21-24) and additional drivers are $6 per day. Dollar rents on a 24-hour basis and if you are keeping your car an hour or so later than the time on the clock that you picked it up, you will owe them an additional $10-$12 an hour, which is cheaper than us charging you a full additional day's rental. If your departure time is several hours later than your arrival time, check your car voucher to make sure the "DROP-OFF" date is one day later than you are actually leaving. We should have included an additional day's rental in your package, but only if we know what your flight times are. You should find your car full of gas and relatively clean. If you return it otherwise there may be additional gas or cleaning fees (see: RETURNING YOUR DOLLAR RENTAL CAR). DOLLAR WILL CHARGE YOU A $3/DAY STATE IMPOSED SURCHARGE and a 7.5% AIRPORT RECOVERY Tax. . Dollar will be glad to provide directions to your accommodations and Vela Maui (located within Neil Pryde Maui - hours 8:30 am to 5:00 PM), where you will pick up your racks and equipment. Vela Maui / Neil Pryde Van Rental: You can rent a van from Neil Pryde as part of you package. Call your Vela Agent for Vela Van pickup instructions at least 1week prior to arrival. GETTING TO VELA MAUI : From the airport, stay straight on Keolani Pl (it will become Dairy Rd.) Follow the signs to Lahaina and Kihei, Cross the Haleakela Hwy and the Hana Hwy (2 lights). Make the first right on Alamaha St. The next street is Papa Pl, turn right. Vela Maui is located inside the Neil Pryde Maui retail shop, located at the corner of Papa and the Hana Hwy. the address is 400 Hana Hwy. If you arrive after 5:00 pm you can pick up your equipment the following morning. Prepaid lessons and equipment are not refundable after your scheduled arrival date. Vela's Wind Warranty works differently on Maui; check with Vela Maui about "Lay Day" and "Return-trip Credit" details before checking out equipment. CHECKING INTO YOUR ACCOMMODATIONS: See the instructions on your document cover letter (the one with your address on it). This will help you in getting to your accommodations and checking in. In this letter you will also find a number to call if you need to talk to someone about your condo while on the island. Your condo management company is always available to help make your vacation an enjoyable one. If the plumbing plugs up, the toaster doesn't work, etc., call them immediately. It's their job to see that it gets fixed now. Then go enjoy Maui. Chances are good it will be fixed by the time you get back from sailing. If not, stay in communication with them. We have chosen the best, most responsive condo management companies on the island. You are in good hands. Click here for North Shore Directions. LESSONS : Alan Cadiz and his staff of HST instructors have been setting the standards in windsurfing instruction since 1985. Their instructors' high level of skill allows them to sail right next to you on the water, giving you the confidence and the coaching you need to excel quickly. Lessons are taught at Kanaha, Kihei, and from private beachfront locations along Maui's North shore. HST offers beginner through advanced, group and private lessons including jibing and wave sailing. As all lessons are by appointment only, reservations are recommended as far in advance as possible. If you have prepaid for lessons or would now like to plan lessons, please call the HST staff at 800-YOU-JIBE (968-5423) to arrange your schedule directly. OTHER ACTIVITIES AVAILABLE : Maui has one of the widest selection of activities of any vacation destination in the world. Good snorkeling and diving trips leave daily from nearby Maalaea Harbor. Hiking, horseback riding and exciting downhill bicycle excursions are available on the slopes of the mighty volcano Haleakala. Shopping is legendary. Your new friends at The Maui Windsurf Company know the best deals and operators and can send you in the right direction. RESTAURANTS: The staff at Vela Maui also are your best source of information about restaurants and nightlife. They have hosted many, many sailors on Maui and are getting constant feedback about what's happening where. SOME IMPORTANT THINGS TO KNOW ABOUT LEAVING MAUI LEAVING YOUR ACCOMMODATIONS: Please respect the checkout time posted in your unit. If you have a late flight out of Maui, you might be able to check out of your unit later in the day. When you arrive, or at least several days before you leave, check with the property management company directly (NOT THE FRONT DESK) about this. Get the name of the person who says OK and how late is OK. If someone happens to be checking in the same day you are leaving, it will not be possible to stay late because your unit must be made ready for them; however, with advance notice, arrangements can often be made. If not, Kanaha Beach Park has freshwater showers so you can still play all day and not have to fly home sandy or salty. [Should an emergency necessitate a return home earlier than your scheduled date, we will do all we can to get refunds for you. Standard condo and car cancellation fees usually exceed any balance left, but property management companies are often quite understanding of emergencies. To assist us in this, you must make sure you get written verification of check-out date from the front desk and also from The Maui Windsurf Company and Dollar Rent-a-Car.] RETURNING YOUR EQUIPMENT : Be aware of The Vela Maui opening and closing times - 9:00 - 6:00. If you are not planning on sailing the day you leave, you may find it easier to return equipment the afternoon before, rather than in the morning. RETURNING YOUR DOLLAR RENTAL CAR: Dollar has to get your car ready for someone else to use. If you return it low on gas or really dirty and full of sand, they will charge you. There are gas stations on your way back into Kahalui. If you are the rare type to really trash a car, Dolphin Car Wash at 156 Wakea has vacuums. If you're concerned about this, clarify with Dollar their policies before taking the vehicle. Leave plenty of time to drop off your equipment, gas your car, check it in, and catch the shuttle to the airport. AT THE KAHALUI AIRPORT: You will have to pass agricultural inspection. Prepackaged fruit sold specifically to be taken back to the mainland is usually OK. Fruit bought in the supermarkets to be consumed on Maui is generally not allowed off the island. SAILING BEACHES (please note: By county ordinance there is no sailing in Maui before 11:00am. This is out of respect for other water users, surfers and fishermen.) NORTHSHORE BEACHES - The northshore beaches stretch from kite beach (lower Kanaha) all the way to Hookipa at the eastern end. Conditions range from fun flat water and chop to the ultimate wave sailing at Hookipa. Depending on surf conditions and wind you will be able to find a spot that is suitable for your taste. Kanaha Beach Park - Located very near Kahalui Airport , Kanaha consists of several shallow sandy coves along the eastern end of Kahalui Bay on the North Shore. Recommended Abilities: Beginner in the most eastern cove through advanced in the most western cove and beyond the reef. Water and Wind: A reef 400 yards offshore means flat water in summer and larger chop in winter. On the reef there are large waves in winter, early spring and fall. Smaller waves prevail in summer with rolling swell outside. Wind picks up from light in the morning, to strong in the afternoon. Spreckelsville Beach - Located 4 miles east of Kanaha, Sprecklesville's quality surf conditions draw some of the best sailors on the island. Obtain directions from the rental shop. Recommended ability: Intermediate to advanced surfsailor. Wind and Water: Same sideshore, consistent trade winds as Kanaha, only a little stronger. Sprecklesville reef produces some excellent conditions to hone your skills for the next step up.... Hookipa Beach Park - Hookipa is located 2 miles east of Paia on the Hana Highway just past Mama's Fish House Restaurant. The tiny beach, tucked in a cove below, serves as a launch for the premier wave venue in the world. Sail only if you are an expert wavesailor, or watch the best from the bluff. KIHEI BEACHES - These narrow, palm fringed beaches stretch from Maalaea Bay through the beach town of Kihei, always accessible off N. Kihei Road. Sailing areas range from beginner, with sheltered side-offshore wind conditions directly in front of the Sugar Beach Condominium Property, to advanced north of the Sugar Beach area. Pavilions (Maipoina Oe Lau Beach Park ) - Just north of Kihei off N. Kihei Road, this site really cooks when the winds shift to the north (a more frequent condition in winter) and accelerate through the valley at speeds up to 30 mph. Less than a mile south of Pavilions is Ka Ono Ulu Beach Park below. Ka Ono Ulu Beach Park - the same conditions but a rocky launch and less sailors. For both... Recommended Ability : Intermediate to advanced sailors Water and Wind : Flat with some chop. 15 to 30 mph blowing side-onshore in a northerly and side-offshore during normal tradewind conditions. Sugar Beach - Directly in front of Sugar Beach Condominiums in the lee of the buildings you'll find lower velocity side-offshore wind. It is possible for beginners to sail here, although Kanaha is more ideal. A ten minute walk up the beach is "Speed Beach" where offshore winds up to 30 mph, particularly in a northerly, create a speed slalom heaven with flat water conditions. Recommended Ability : Beginner in front of resort, intermediate to advanced at Speed Beach. Water and Wind : Flat close-in. Swell and chop in bay. Up to 30 mph blowing offshore at Speed Beach. NORTH SHORE MAUI DIRECTIONS- Stable Road (Kanaha/Spreckelsville) Properties: From the Kahului Airport turn left onto Hana Highway (Route 36) east towards Paia Town. From the Haleakala Hwy Intersection (traffic light) drive exactly 1.4 miles and turn left onto Stable Road (sorry no street sign) follow the road for about 1 mile. Aina Lani - 584 "D" and "E" Stable Rd. (808-877-5816) North Shore Beach House - 584 "B" Stable Rd. (808-572-9269) property management Tradewind Beach House - 582 Stable Rd (808-572-9269) property management Ray's Friendly Beach - 581 Stable Rd. (808-877-2104) Secret Beach - 584 "A" Stable Rd. (808-572-9269) property management Spreckelsville Properties: From the Kahului Airport, turn left onto Hana Highway (Route 36) East towards the town of Paia. About two miles before Paia, you will pass Kaunoa Senior Center. The next left is Nonohe. Turn left and continue until it intersects with Paani Place. Turn left onto Paani and continue until it dead-ends at the Sugar Cove Condominiums. Windsurf Bungalow is the last house on the right just before the gate entrance into Sugar Cove. Nellie's Windsurf Bungalow - 316 Paani Place (808-572-9269) property management Paia Properties: From the Kahului Airport, turn left onto Hana Highway (Route 36) East towards the town of Paia. There is only one signal in the town of Paia at Baldwin Ave. Cross the intersection and make a left into the driveway between the Minute Stop and Simmer Sports. Nellie's Surf Bungalows - 127 Hana Highway (808-572-9269) property management Haiku Properties: From the Kahului Airport, turn left onto Hana Highway (Route 36) East towards the town of Paia. Continue straight on Hana Highway through Paia. Turn right on Haiku Rd. Make the next right onto Apuwai. Hale Maliko - 166 Apuwai St. (808-575-5172) Vela Maui - (800) 321-7443, is located in the Neil Pryde Maui shop at 400 Hana Hwy. Any questions? Feel free to call us toll free at 800-223-5443. To get fast answers while on Maui, contact the Vela Maui staff - (800) 321-7443. Updated 07/2004 Vela Windsurf Resorts . 1-800-223-5443 . info@velawindsurf.com 108 Whispering Pines Drive . Suite 245 . Scotts Valley, CA 95066 . All rights reserved Vela Resorts, Inc. 2004 web site design by McLeod Creative

Hawaiian Shirts & Hawaiian

Hawaiian shirts and Hawaiian dresses boutique See some of most popular Hawaiian shirts in our Top Hawaiian Shirts gallery. See our latest wedding Hawaiian dresses & shirts photoshoot gallery. Hawaiian Shirts & Hawaiian Dresses Boutique We are passionate about Hawaiian shirts and Hawaiian dresses . The history of Hawaiian shirts dates back to the 1930's and has come to symbolize the fun and casual lifestyle of Hawaii. All of our Hawaiian shirts and dresses are made in Hawaii . We even show you how our Hawaiian shirts are made ! We carry a full range of Hawaiian shirts and Hawaiian dresses, including short and long Hawaiian dresses in tank and spaghetti strap styles, muumuus, and Hawaiian wedding dresses & shirts. Most of our Hawaiian shirts are also available in a matching dress. Be sure to check out our new Hawaiian shirts gallery for ideas or our many galleries of Hawaiian dresses featuring past photo shoots and models. For 2006, spread the joy of Aloha with perfect Hawaiian shirts or dresses! Remember, our Hawaiian shirts and dresses are authentic and carry the "Made in Hawaii" label, so your satisfaction is guaranteed. Hawaiian Shirt & Dress Store | Site Map | 2004 Hawaiian Shirts Gallery | 2003 Hawaiian shirts Gallery | 2002 Hawaiian shirts Gallery | 2000 Hawaiian shirts Gallery | Hawaiian Dresses Gallery 1 | Hawaiian Dresses Gallery 2 | Hawaiian Dresses Gallery 3 | Hawaiian Wedding Shirts & Dresses Gallery | Hawaiian Outpost | Links AlohaFunWear.com - Hawaiian Shirts & Hawaiian Dresses Boutique 98-1277 Kaahumanu St. #200 Aiea, HI 96701 Customer Support: support@alohafunwear.com

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

Volcano Inn Bed And Breakfast, Hawaii Volcano Inn, Volcano HI Volcano Inn, Volcano Inn Bed And Breakfast Inn, Volcano Inn vacation HOME FIND AN INN TRAVEL CLUB INNS FOR SALE MY FAVORITES INNKEEPERS Start a New Search :: Hawaii :: Volcano :: Volcano Inn add to my favorites email this page -- printer friendly version -- Volcano Inn 19-3820 Old Volcano Road Volcano, HI 96785 Total Rooms: 8 Rates: $99 to $136 CONTACT INFORMATION Contact Innkeeper via Email Now or Check Availability INNKEEPER(S) Joan Prescott-Lighter PHONE: (808)967-7293 (800)997-2292 FAX: (808)985-7349 Visit our website at: http://www.volcanoinn.com Description Rooms & Rates Policies Services & Amenities Discounts Activities Description If sleeping next to a volcano is on your adventure list, this inn is uniquely located on three acres just a short drive from Hawaii Volcanoes National Park in a rainforest at an elevation of approximately 4,000 feet. Welcome chocolates are offered at check-in. Elegant upcountry accommodations include exquisitely appointed guest bedrooms with private entrances, refrigerators, heat, coffee/tea service, and personal amenities. Breakfast is served in a light-filled dining room and features a cereal bar with the inn's signature granola and yogurt, wholesome baked breads and pastries, Poha and O'Hello berry jams, Kona coffee, guava juice and seasonal island fruits. Aloha hospitality is the inn's specialty and will assist in organizing adventures into the park, excursions to Waipio Valley, the Mauna Kea Observatory and other activities. Location: Country and Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. Rooms & Rates Rates: $99 to $136 Payment types accepted include Master Card, Visa, Travelers Checks and Cash. Rooms: This property has 8 total guest accommodations with private bath, 1 two-bedroom suite, 1 cottage and 1 guest house. The types of beds available include King, Queen, Twin and Double. Policies Minimum Stay Requirements: *NO APPLICABLE SURCHARGE FOR ONE NIGHT STAYS! Cancellation: Cancellations prior to 72 hours arrival by 3pm will be charged a one night stay. Cancellations made within 72 hours arrival by 3pm will be charged a $25 processing fee plus a one night stay. You may cancel by FAX (808)985-7349, email stay@volcanoinn.com or call us at (808) 967-7293 during business hours of 9am-4pm Monday-Friday. Upon cancellation you will be provided with a cancellation number as well as a cancellation letter. Phone messages will NOT be accepted. Failure to provide proper notice will possibly incur additional charges. Pets: Innkeepers pets on premises. Smoking: Prohibited. Services & Amenities Meals Included in Rates: Breakfast. Types of meals: Early Coffee/Tea and Continental Plus Breakfast. Amenities In Room: Cable TV, Reading Lamps, Refrigerator, Ceiling Fans, Snack Bar, Clock Radio, Coffeemaker, Television, Desk, VCR, Hair Dryer, Bathrobes, Bath Amenities, Wireless Internet Access and Iron/Ironing Board. Amenities On Site: Bicycles, Library, Parlor Games, Computers, PC, Copy Machine, Phone, Fax, Fireplace, Stables, Limited Handicap Access, Television, VCR, Gift Shop, DVD, gardens, exercise room and running/walking paths. Discounts Special Discounts: Kama'aina 10% Discount (State of Hawaii ID required) Activities Other Activities: Antiquing, Art Galleries, Beaches, Bicycling, Golf, Hiking, Horseback Riding, Live Theater, Museums, Parks, Shopping (Local Crafts), Tennis, Wineries and Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. Recommended Restaurants: Kilauea Lodge Restaurant, Volcano House Restaurant, Thai Thai Lava Rock Cafe Kiawe Kitchen Historic Interest The Inn was built in 1928 by the Mist family and was used primarily as a summer house to escape the heat and crowds of city life. This is probably one of the first properties to have been established in Volcano. Historic sites nearby: Petroglyph sites Romantic Interest Located in giant fern tree rain forest, active lava flows Back to Search Results Start a New Search Find Restaurants and save 50% on dining CURRENT WEATHER in Volcano ILoveInns.com | Find an Inn | About Us | Add Your Inn | Privacy Policy

Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale

Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary: Welcome Aloha and Welcome to the Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary! The Sanctuary protects humpback whales and their habitat in Hawai`i. ANNOUNCEMENTS A humpback mother and its calf. Photo credit: Flip Nicklin, Minden Pictures, NOAA Fisheries Permit #987 FEBRUARY IS HUMPBACK WHALE AWARENESS MONTH...HELP SPREAD THE WORD! The Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary has proclaimed February as Humpback Whale Awareness Month! February is the best month of the year to catch a glimpse of Hawai`i's humpbacks, so get involved and get outside to see these magnificent animals, often referred to as "gentle giants", before they head back to colder waters to feed. To see a list of events that you can take part in this month and throughout the year, check out our 2006 calendar of events. Want to find out what you can do to help protect Hawai`i's humpbacks, check out our Humpback Whale Awareness Month Flyer ( pdf version ). SIGN-UP FOR THE SANCTUARY'S LISTSERVE If you'd like to receive information on the Sanctuary's current activities, please join our new email listserve. Find out more now . ONLINE OCEAN ENCYCLOPEDIA NOW AVAILABLE Learn more about the fascinating flora and fauna of the Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary and other national marine sanctuaries through a new online encyclopedia. CONTACT INFORMATION FOR MARINE MAMMAL EMERGENCIES Do you need to report a marine mammal violation, entanglement, stranding, or other emergency? Click here to find out how. SANCTUARY OCEAN COUNT Volunteers often see whales breaching when they take time to watch for them during the Sanctuary Ocean Count. Photo Credit: Suzanne Canja The Sanctuary Ocean Count is an annu al ev ent that places volunteers at various shore locations around the Big Island, Kaua`i, O`ahu and Kaho‘olawe. Participants count the number of humpback whales that they see and record the types of whale behaviors that they witness. The collected data helps to develop an important database of information on humpback whale populations and distribution patterns around the Hawaiian Islands while also educating the community about humpback whales and the Sanctuary program. If you are interested in participating in the 2006 Sanctuary Ocean Count or if you would like to learn more about the annual Sanctuary Ocean Count project, click here . The 2006 Sanctuary Ocean Count T-shirt is now available - check it out! Visit our site again to view continuing updates. SPLASH RESEARCH CONTINUES SPLASH is the most comprehensive study ever attempted of the endangered North Pacific humpback whale population. The effort is a partnership of NOAA's National Marine Sanctuary Program and NOAA Fisheries. Visit the Special Offerings section of our website to learn more and to read the newly added sea stories! CONSTRUCTION BEGINS ON NEW KIHEI FACILITY At its Kihei headquarters, the sanctuary is renovating existing facilitites, building a new multi-purpose building on site and removing the existing storage sheds. This new building will house additional office space, storage facilites, and a large space for public programs. Visit the Kihei Facility Project web page for more information. VISIT THE SANCTUARY EDUCATION CENTER The Sanctuary Education Center located in Kihei, Maui is open to the public from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., Monday thru Friday. Please come visit us. Click here for directions. SANCTUARY PUBLICATIONS The Sanctuary is proud to offer its education publications online. Please visit the Publications web page for more information. SANCTUARY PHOTOGRAPHS Our photo collection is very popular. An enhanced photo gallery of the sanctuary , with photos selected by sanctuary staff is now available. Melon-headed whales are occasionally sighted in the sanctuary. Photo credit: Doug Perrine/ HWRF/ Seapics.com/ A Note about Language The Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary recognizes the rich markings of the Hawaiian language and has made every effort to include them here. However, the limitations of common fonts have prevented many of these markings from appearing. The sanctuary will continue to remain sensitive to the Hawaiian language and will include these markings wherever possible. Accessibility This site has been designed to be accessible to the visually impaired. The Site Index is a simple text listing of every page on the site. Links | Search | Contact Us | HIHWNMS Staff | About the Site | Site Index Credits & Acknowledgements | Privacy Policy The Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary is jointly managed by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration and the State of Hawai`i, Department of Land and Natural Resources . The sanctuary is part of the National Marine Sanctuary Program, National Ocean Service, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, Depertment of Commerce. Please visit the following Web sites for more information: Department of Commerce National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration National Ocean Service National Marine Sanctuaries Program Revised by the HIHWNMS web team on January 20, 2006. URL: http://hawaiihumpbackwhale.noaa.gov/welcome.html . [top]