Hawaiian Island News

Hawaii’s Current Population Statistics Are Now Available. When I think of the state of Hawaii, I imagine a combination of America and Asia. Hawaii has the high quality that Americans are accustomed to and the exotic touch of Asia, the best of both worlds.

 The U.S. Census Bureau released the 2011 National, State and County population characteristics on May 17, 2012.  The following are a few facts about Hawaii.

On July 1, 2011, Asians (alone or in combination) accounted for 57.1% of the state total population (ranked #1 in the nation in terms of shares of Asians in total population; ranked second was California at 15.5%).

On July 1, 2011, Honolulu County had the largest percentage of Asian (alone or in combination with other races) population at 61.2%, followed by Kauai County at 51.3%, Maui County at 47.6%, and Hawaii County at 45.6%.

On July 1, 2011, Native Hawaiians and Other Pacific Islanders (alone or in combination) accounted for 26.1% of Hawaii’s total population (ranked #1 in the country in terms of shares of this race group in the total population).

Hawaii County had the largest share of Native Hawaiians and Other Pacific Islanders at 34.0%, followed by Maui County at 27.4%, Kauai County at 25.6%, and Honolulu County at 24.4%.

On July 1, 2011, White (alone or in combination) accounted for 42.8% of the state total population (ranked on the bottom in terms of shares of this race group in the total population with Washington D.C. ranked second lowest having 44.3% of its population in this category).

Within the state, Hawaii County ranked the first in terms of shares of White population.  56.2% of the total population on the Big Island was White alone or in combination with other races on July 1, 2011.  Maui County had 52.1% of White population and ranked the second, followed by Kauai County at 51.2%, and then Honolulu County at 38.1%.

On July 1, 2011, Hawaii had 5,835 people with American Indian and Alaska Native race alone.  There were 27,443 people with Black race alone in Hawaii on July 1, 2011.

On July 1, 2011, the population 65 year and above accounted for 14.7% (ranked 8^th in the nation), while persons 85 years of age and above shared 2.4% of the total population (8^th place in the nation).

Overall, the State of Hawaii was ranked #1 in regard to minority populations with 77.1% of our population categorized as part of a minority group.  “Minority” is defined by the U.S. Census Bureau as the population identifying their race and ethnicity as something other than non-Hispanic White race alone.  By county, Honolulu County was the highest with an 80.6% minority population.  Next was Kauai County with a 69.6% minority population, followed by Hawaii County with 69.0% and Maui County with 68.3%.

Hawaii’s Current Population Statistics Are Now Available

Looking more closely at the data, it can be seen that Hawaii’s youngest generation had an even higher minority percentage than our total population.  The percentage of the population aged 0 to 4 years old which belonged to a minority race or ethnic group was 84.3%, compared with the 77.1% figure for the total population.  Also, unlike the minority figures for our total population, all counties now had minority population percentages in the 80^th percentile for this young age group – Hawaii County with 86.9%; Honolulu County with 83.9%; Maui County with 83.7% and Kauai County with 83.3%.

Hawaii’s population 65 years and above increased by 3.1% from July 1, 2010 to July 1, 2011 while our total population increased 0.8% a year during the same period.

On July 1, 2011, Kauai County had the highest percentage of 65 year+ population at 15.5% followed by the Big Island with 15.1%.  14.8% of the population in Honolulu County was 65 years or above in July 2011 while Maui County had the smallest share of 65 year+ population at 13.4%.

Population in Honolulu County was relatively younger with median age of 37.9 years in July 2011, followed by Maui County at 39.7 years, and Hawaii County at 41.0 years.  Median age for population on Kauai was 41.4 years in July 2011.  Statewide median age in July 2011 was 43.1 years.

On July 1, 2011, Hawaii’s total population consisted of 50.2% males and 49.8% females.  There are more females than males for Asians but for other races, there are more males than females.

Mixed race population in Hawaii was 22.9% on July 1, 2011, while the percentage of mixed race population in the nation on the same day was only 2.3%.

School age population (5-17 years) decreased by 822 between the 2010 to 2011 period.

The population and its characteristics are estimates by the U.S. Census Bureau based on the 2010 Census population, vital statistics, administrative records, Federal tax return, and the results from the American Community Survey. These estimates tend to change when more information becomes available.

Hawaii’s Current Population Statistics Are Now Available while showing more Asian females than males, which it is interesting. Back 70 + years ago, many Asian counrties would either sale off or kill female babies. They’re thinking was that a female could not provide or help the family in the harsh living conditions, which once existed. I for one am glad this kind of thinking is no longer the norm…

~~Aloha Nui Loa

Here’s a great way to Enjoy “local” cuisine now when flying Hawaiian Airlines. Book a trip to one of the inter-islands and enjoy some home-cooked food. On my next flight, I’ll try their Yellow Curry Penne Pasta with vegetables.

Pleasantly warm on the heels of discount carrier Allegiant’s announcement yesterday that it will greatly expand its Mainland-Hawai‘i service this fall came this subtle reminder of which airline not only has local roots, but still feeds its passengers largely for free:

Travelers who appreciate Hawaiian Airlines’ dedication to sharing Hawai‘i’s culture and tradition of hospitality will enjoy the airline’s new onboard menu and homegrown snacks showcasing the diversity of foods and flavors in the islands. The new offerings are available on all of its domestic and international flights. …

Among the meals being enjoyed by Economy Class customers on domestic routes are a Hawaiian Breakfast Wrap of fried rice, Portuguese sausage and edamame, and a Chicken Yellow Curry with rice and pineapple. Vegetarians can enjoy the Yellow Curry Penne Pasta With vegetables.

On international routes, one of the meals being enjoyed by travelers is a Hawaiian Moco, [Executive Chef Chai Chaowasaree's] take on the local favorite breakfast dish made with a grilled hamburger patty, steamed rice, brown gravy and fried eggs.

All of these meals are offered free of charge. Notably, Hawaiian remains the only airline serving Hawaii to offer complimentary hot meals to all Economy Class customers.

Enjoy “local” cuisine now when flying Hawaiian Airlines

Hawaiian’s press release goes on to note that those meals are in addition to “premium” ones, including sushi platters and  large specialty salads, that can be bought in Economy Class. As with other airlines, First Class passengers don’t have to worry about cost, only about choosing between items such as kalua pork and cheese omelet, shrimp and crab salad with crispy won ton taco, or a fresh seafood entree.

New to the for-purchase snack menu are made-in-Hawaii treats such as Punalu‘u Bake Shop’s macadamia nut shortbread cookies (Big Island), Anahola Granola’s Granola Bars (Kaua‘i), and Sweet Potato and Taro Chips from the Hawaiian Chip Company and Island Princess’ Macadamia Popcorn Crunch (both based on O‘ahu.)

While it might seem strange to applaud food items you have to pay for, I appreciate that investment in the local economy (not to mention agriculture.) I’ve been surprised by how often tourism representatives have sent me food items from Hawaii that turned out to be made in (and/or with products from) Thailand, China, Japan, etc. I’m sure they were all very tasty (I gave them away), but personally, if I’m looking for a taste of Hawai‘i, I’d prefer it to be from Hawai‘i. How ’bout you? And will free food be an enticement to fly Hawaiian or is it all about the peniamina (benjamins)?

Enjoy “local” cuisine now when flying Hawaiian Airlines and make sure the lable reads “Made in Hawaii”, then you will truly know that it was made right here on the islands.

~~Aloha Nui Loa

This coming June will be Fun for the kids at Kauai Marriott Resort on Kalapaki Beach In Hawaii. With all the activities planned and games to play the children will enjoy non-stop fun all summer long. Don’t forget the outdoor swimming pool at the Marriott’s, the kids will never run out of thing to do.

LIHUE, HAWAII–(Marketwire -05/09/12)- Seeing and experiencing Hawaii through a child’s eye is as heartwarming as the rays of the Hawaiian sunshine. And as more and more multi-generational families travel together, they seek a destination that can offer a resort with a variety of guest services and activities. Beginning June 23, Kauai Marriott Resort will have available its summer program designed for youngsters ages 5-12 years old at Kalapaki Kids Club. The cost is $70 per child who is a guest of this family hotel in Hawaii.

Kids will enjoy the Kalapaki Kids program offerings that include a few Hawaiian cultural offerings from Saturday to Wednesday:

“Silly” Saturday – Get ready, get set, & get wet! A balloon toss is always fun with a friend or two. Let’s not forget about our obstacle race right on the beach. You will also get to decorate your own visor to wear under the warm Hawaiian sun.

Aloha Sunday – Learn a hula to show off to your friends back home. You will also learn a bit about our volcanoes here in Hawaii and how our islands were made long ago. Hawaiian story telling is also planned especially for you.

Hawaiiana Monday – We’re going on a scavenger hunt! You will get to see some of the special animals and plants that have made our garden their home. Get a cool Hawaiian petroglyph picture painted on your arm or leg and string fresh flower lei for you to give or wear.

Keiki Tuesday – Fun in the sun with sand sculpting. You will also find out what your name is in Hawaiian and decorate a luggage tag for your journey back home. We will also learn about our marine animals here in Hawaii.

Makahiki Wednesday – Go “coconuts,” with coconut bowling. You’ll also learn a thing or two about some of the games (old and new) that the children of Hawaii have fun playing every day.

Fun for the kids at Kauai Marriott Resort on Kalapaki Beach In Hawaii

At Kauai Marriott Resort on Kalapaki Beach, families of all ages can enjoy the results of a recently completed $50 million makeover that transformed all areas of the luxury hotel in Kauai. Along with the refreshed guestrooms, the beachfront resort has a new children’s swimming pool with a slide and water features, which complements the 26,000-square-foot signature swimming pool.

Kauai Marriott Resort is home to a vibrant collection of more than 1,500 red, orange, yellow, and white koi fish, teeming in anticipation and waiting to be hand-fed each morning by resort guests in the Gardens of Kalapaki. From their serene and elegant nature, to the frisky, unforgettable splashing and churning of the pond during feeding time, koi fish feeding is offered daily.

The Kauai beach hotel’s Kalapaki Kids Club focuses on the uniqueness of Kauai and is open to children from five to 12 years old. The program is designed to be flexible, allowing children to participate in an activity they find of particular interest or to sign up for an entire day of adventures. Kids learn hula dancing, songs, how to play the ukulele, and various Hawaiian crafts. Youngsters, including teens can enjoy time in the new recreation room. There is a great Kids Evening Camp on Mondays and Tuesdays from 5:00p.m. 10:00p.m. Activities include dinner, movie, arts and craft. The price is $50 per child.

Kalapaki Kids Club reservations are required. Parents and guardians must accompany their children to and from Kalapaki Kids Club.

For more information and details on the most current price and programs that are subject to change without notice, please visit http://www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/lihhi-kauai-marriott-resort/ or call (808) 245-5050.

About Kauai Marriott Resort on Kalapaki Beach
Discover your paradise with Marriott’s legendary aloha spirit at the new Kauai Marriott Resort on Kalapaki Beach. Located on the serene, family-friendly Kalapaki Beach, the centrally located, 800-acre oceanfront resort makes it easy for guests to experience the pure splendor of Kauai, world renowned for its natural beauty, isolated beaches, carefree ambience and exhilarating activities.

Fresh off a $50 million renovation, Kauai Marriott Resort guests will relax in completely new guest rooms and suites while enjoying the island’s most impressive swimming pool with five saunas. Experience a mixture of creative island-inspired cuisine masterfully prepared at the oceanfront Kukui’s Restaurant in Lihue, featuring the new Toro-Tei sushi bar. Golfers can tee up at this premier Kauai Lagoons golf club, a Jack Nicklaus Signature course offering breathtaking ocean views. To start your island discovery at the new Kauai Marriott Resort, please call (800) 220-2925 or (808) 245-5050 or visit http://www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/lihhi-kauai-marriott-resort/.

Follow Marriott Resorts Hawaii on Twitter @marriotthawaii or like us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/MarriottHawaii

Visit Marriott International, Inc. (MAR) for company information. For more information or reservations, please visit our web site at www.marriott.com, and for the latest company news, visit www.marriottnewscenter.com.

 So check-out all the Fun for the kids at Kauai Marriott Resort on Kalapaki Beach In Hawaii. Your children may never want to leave. The next best thing might be to move to the islands, wouldn’t that be a blast?

~~Aloha Nui Loa

While in Maui, watch as Venus crosses the path of the Sun and of course this magical event only takes place every few years. But only if you are lucky enough to take action will you be able to see for yourself! Because on Tuesday, June 5 you will be given a once in a lifetime opportunity to see this actually happen from the island of Maui, Hawaii.

Celestial events that only come around once every few years make a perfectly good excuse to travel. When one of the best spots for viewing said event is in Hawaii, you probably don’t need much more coaxing.

Maui just might be the place to be on June 5 this year when the planet Venus crosses the path of the sun. While the Venus transit will be viewable in most parts of the world, in Hawaii the transit will occur at sunset (rather than sunrise), and given that Maui is the “house of the sun” it seems even more appropriate.

While in Maui, watch as Venus crosses the path of the Sun

The Hyatt Regency Maui Resort and Spa has a series of events to celebrate the occasion, including a big screen televised broadcast hosted by the resort’s astronomy director, solar shades to protect your eyes for the viewing, a special Venus Menu at the hotel restaurant, and even a group vow renewal — Venus is, after all, the goddess of love. Guests can also put the resort’s HD telescope to good use during their stay for even more stargazing.

The Hyatt Regency Maui Resort and Spa is offering a special “Sunshine on Sale” package to coincide with the Venus transit, which grants guests a fifth night free (when they book 4 nights) and free daily breakfast for two.

The Venus transit will be visible on Maui from noon to sunset, and this extremely rare planetary alignment won’t happen again until 2117. Book on the hotel website or by calling 808-661-1234. At the time of this writing, round-trip airfare from Portland to Maui around the event started at $481.

These deals have limited availability and blackout dates do apply. As always, details are subject to change, so check directly with the hotels and airlines to confirm.

While in Maui, watch as Venus crosses the path of the Sun and make sure to tell all your friends to have their telescopes ready. You camera buffs may want to be ready as well, as you snap-off some amazing photos…

~~Aloha Nui Loa

Garrett McNamara, an Hawaiian surfer who rides the biggest wave ever is a guy who lives and breathes surfing. In the surfing world, if you’ve been around for any length of time, than you know McNamara. Every surfer challenges themselves but can only dream to surf at his level.

Dude, that was the gnarliest wave ever. Guinness World Records says so.

The record-keeping agency is acknowledging a 44-year-old Hawaii pro surfer for catching a 78-foot wave off the coast of Portugal, saying the November run beats a 2008 record by more than 1 foot.

Big-wave surfer Garrett McNamara of Haleiwa, on Oahu’s North Shore, told The Associated Press that the ride of his life was a fluke.

He said he originally didn’t want to attempt the waves that day after wiping out numerous times on even bigger swells in the same spot, above an undersea canyon known as one of the biggest wave-generators on the planet.

“I was really beat-up that morning,” he said. “This day, I did not want to get out of bed.”

He changed his mind at the urging of friends, once they got into the ocean and he helped others catch a few waves.

“Everything came together,” McNamara said Thursday. “Everything felt right.”

Video of the run shows a minuscule 5-foot-10-inch McNamara against a wall of water as he lets go of a tow rope and begins riding down the wave at Praia do Norte. He briefly disappears into the break about 10 seconds into the run, then speeds up and remerges from the wave’s tube as the swell quickly dissipates.

“I knew it was big, but I didn’t know how big,” he said.

McNamara said he didn’t care at first about whether the wave was a record, but was urged by the townspeople in Nazare, Portugal, to get some kind of confirmation. He said he sent the footage and pictures to surfing legend and Billabong judge Sean Collins, who guessed the wave was 85 to 90 feet tall. Collins died in December.

Garrett McNamara, an Hawaiian surfer who rides the biggest wave ever

The official record comes after McNamara was awarded $15,000 for the ride at the Billabong XXL Global Big Wave Awards in California last week.

Judges for the awards, considered the official arbiters of big-wave surfing, pored over footage and high-resolution still images from several angles to calculate a more accurate estimate, event director Bill Sharp told the AP.

They used McNamara’s height in a crouch and the length of his shin bone to help compare it to the wave’s top and bottom, Sharp said.

“You can’t deny how big it was for that moment,” Sharp said.

Sharp said surfers don’t often get a chance to catch waves so big. He put the achievement on par with other infrequent athletic feats like four home runs in a game — which Texas Rangers outfielder Josh Hamilton achieved this week — or a perfect game.

But add to that the fact that the stadium could collapse on you at any second,” he said.

McNamara, who began surfing at age 11 and went pro at 17, said the achievement became more important to him when he realized it could help him urge more people to follow their passions.

The world would be a much better place if everyone was doing what they wanted to do,” he said.

Garrett McNamara, An Hawaiian surfer who rides the biggest wave ever. If someday you wish to become a world know champion surfer, than now is the time to start practicing, and as they say, “Enjoy The Ride!”

~~Aloha Nui Loa