Discover Hawaii Tours Blog

One of the most scenic views on the entire island of Oahu, the Nu’uanu Pali Lookout is an absolute must on any Hawaiian Vacation. Tucked in the cliffs of the Ko’olau Mountain Range, pali is the Hawaiian word for cliffs. From the lookout, a panoramic view of Windward Oahu overlooks the towns of Kailua and Kaneohe. The Pali Highway (State Highway 61) connects Honolulu to windward Oahu.

Scenic View from above Pali Lookout

The Pali is famous for the strong trade winds that blow through the pass, seemingly at all times. Coupled with the tunnels of the highway, it forms a natural wind tunnel of sorts.

There are many legends and beliefs surrounding this fabled overpass and its surrounding mountains. Two large stones near the back of Nu’uanu valley are said to represent a pair of goddesses who were guardians of the passage. Travelers have been know to leave offerings of flowers or bark cloth to ensure a safe trip. Many parents have been known to bury the umbilical cords of newborns under the stones, as a protection against evil. It is also widely believed that pork should never be carried over Nu’uanu Pali. Many motorists have reported their cars mysteriously stopping and not starting again until the pork was removed from the car. This is the responsibility of Pele and her contest with Kamapua’a, a half man, half hog God that is forbidden from passing to her side of the island in his hog form.

The Nu’uanu Pali was also the site of the Battle of Nu’uanu, one of the bloodiest battles in Hawaiian History. During this battle, King Kamehameha I conquered the island of Oahu, bringing it under his rule. The battle took place in 1795 after Kamehameha conquered the islands of Maui and Molokai. Along with an army of 10,000 soldiers, Kamehameha forced the defenders of Nu’uanu Valley up the mountain and trapped more than 400 soldiers. The defenders were driven off the cliff to their deaths 1,000 feet below. When the first road was built over the mountain range, workers came across more than 800 skulls, believed to be the remains of the warriors that fell to their deaths during the battle.

For the best chance to see the Pali Lookout and many of the other scenic and historic landmarks on Oahu, join us on a Circle Island Tour today.

One of the most exciting and entertaining competitions is back! From May 12^th through May 15^th, the Polynesian Cultural Center will once again play host to the Annual World Fireknife Championships. This will mark the 18^th year that PCC has hosted the 4-day event culminating in an intense 2 day showdown between 3 finalists, which will take place during the intermission of the “Ha: Breath of Life” show on Friday and Saturday.

The tradition of Fireknife Dancing stems from Samoan Ailao- a warriors knife dance performed with the Nifo Oti (deadly tooth). The dance was originally performed both before battles to frighten their enemies and afterwards to celebrate victory. In more contemporary times, after village, tribal and inter island combat faded into history, the nifo oti has become an important aspect in the Samoan ta’alolo, or gift-giving procession, that honors special visitors.

On your upcoming trip to Oahu, be sure to book with Discover Hawaii Tours and ask about our North Shore Twilight Luau Tour 14B, for your chance to witness this magnificent display of acrobatics, death-defying stunts, rhythmic dancing, and fire-lit knives. This is a must see event that you will surely not want to miss.

Polynesian Cultural Center Horizons Show Cast

Polynesian Cultural Center and Discover Hawaii Tours have begun offering a “Summer Special” Tour, that includes a Free Dinner Buffet with a purchase of the Polynesian Cultural Center Show Package.

The Free Dinner Buffet is valid from April 22, 2009 through August 31, 2009.

Additionally, during this time the Polynesian Cultural Center children’s rates, which are normally applied to ages 5 through 11 years of age, have been extended to include those aged 5 through 15.

The Admission/Show experience remains the Polynesian Cultural Center’s most affordable package. You can walk through seven different Pacific villages, representing the major Polynesian subcultures, and well as enjoy the canoe pageant, an IMAX™ movie, the tram tour of Laie, and even canoe rides! For dinner you will enjoy a free buffet at the famous Gatweay Restaurant and you’ll receive reserved seating at the Horizons Night Show, the most spectacular show on Oahu.

Additional Information:

· The Polynesian Cultural Center is a non-profit organization

· Alcoholic beverages are not permitted or sold on the grounds

· Caffeine-free Coca-Cola, coffee and tea are available

· There are designated smoking areas available

· No flash pictures are allowed during the night show performance

· Passport to Polynesia lets kids take home a stamp and a great memory – from each island culture they visit.

· Special bonus offer from Discover Hawaii Tours – Free buffet dinner at the Gateway restaurant.