The Hawaiian Islands stay green and lush because of the frequent rains, but these rains are typically very light and usually do not prevent people from getting outdoors. When the heavier rains come in fall and winter, or a major tropical storm moves in, people will stay indoors. Individuals or families can find an array of things to do in Hawaii that keep the rainy day blues away.
Archery
One needn't have the desire to hunt anything to pick up a bow and arrow. Archery is a great way to practice hand-eye coordination and do some strength training. There are several archery ranges on Oahu. The Puu O Kapolei Archery Range has an indoor range. Archers at Kapolei have access to a chronograph, paper tuner, bow press, shooting machine, and more.
Rock Climbing
Try your hand at rock climbing at Volcanic Rock Gym in Waipio. Experienced climbers will assist you with organic chalk bags and buckets, but you might need to bring a pair of climbing or athletic gloves. If you like the sport and want to join a group, you can get in shape for some major outdoors rock climbing all over the islands when the rains cease.
Honor the Sacred
Align your mind, body and spirit connection through yoga. Yoga Oasis in Pahoa on the Big Island offers daily rates as well as training for teachers, and workshops in lomi lomi. If you prefer being alone for inner contemplation, visit one of the islands' churches or temples for meditation, such as Wo Hing Temple in Lahaina, the Jodo Temple in Kahului and the Rinzai Zen Mission in Paia, the Wai’oli Hui’ia Church in Hanalei, or the Painted Church in the hills overlooking Kealakekua Bay. The Wood Valley Buddhist Temple on the Big Island is a special place, offering full retreats and practice for Tibetan Buddhists, but also open their doors to visitors to experience the silence in a beautiful setting.
Dance
Dance classes abound in the islands. The hula is the sacred interpretive dance of island history and peoples, myth and legends. It's also extremely athletic. Men's hula is a powerful art form and the women's is more fluid. The annual Merry Monarch Festival features some of the top performers from top halaus, or hula houses, that offer training.
Other forms of dance are offered around the islands as well. West Hawaii Dance Academy in Kailua-Kona and the Movement Center on Oahu offer classes in jazz, ballet, and tap. Just make sure to check ahead of time for dress codes.
Risk It
If the rains are light, and no major storm is moving in, hit the jungles in Manoa for a bit of mudsliding. This can be great fun, although a bit messy. Swim in one of many cool ponds at the base of a waterfall found on the road to Hana, as well as the lower of the Seven Sacred Pools.
Back in Waipio Valley on the Big Island there's another, but you'd likely have to take a jeep to it and/or arrange a tour since it's privately owned. Save the 11-mile hike up Kalalau Valley to the falls and pool for dryer days, as it can be a bit too risky when it rains.
If swimming doesn't suit your fancy, take an umbrella to the tide pools at Makapuu, Hulopoe, or South Point.
Member Comments