Mahalo
Mahalo on Hanalei Country Club: a running collection of 3 stories we have gathered and hand-picked because they are worth your time. Every post here touches on mahalo in some way — the news, the analysis, the deep dives, and the occasional surprise find. Hanalei Bay Country Club is a vibrant digital guide to the island of Kauai—curated for travelers who want more than a vacation. New stories are added to this page as we find them, so check back if you want to keep up with what is happening around mahalo, or subscribe to the RSS feed to get them as soon as they are published. Browse the collection below, or head back to the homepage to see everything Hanalei Country Club is covering right now.
The Winners of HAWAIʻI Magazine’s 2026 Photo Contest
Year after year, HAWAIʻI Magazine’s annual photo contest consistently showcases the remarkable talent capturing the Islands' essence. This year’s submissions – a vibrant tapestry of endemic species, iconic surf breaks, and rugged landscapes – are no exception. We’re thrilled to present the winners, offering a captivating glimpse into Hawaiʻi’s dynamic beauty. For our 26th contest, the selection process was particularly rigorous, highlighting the exceptional quality of the entries. Explore the full gallery on the winners page here. For those seeking further island adventures, consider our recent feature on “Big Island Must Do: Manta Ray Snorkeling,” offering a deeper dive into the underwater wonders of Hawaiʻi.
Celebrate 10 Years of Tin Roof on Maui
For a decade, Tin Roof in Kahului, Maui, has been a cornerstone of the island's culinary scene. Chef Sheldon Simeon and his team are thrilled to invite the community to celebrate this milestone anniversary! Established by Sheldon and his wife, Janice, Tin Roof began as a beloved plate-lunch destination and has since evolved to include dinner service, demonstrating remarkable resilience through challenges like the recent pandemic and a steadfast commitment to feeding the community. More than just a restaurant, Tin Roof represents a vibrant spirit of Aloha and local pride. Discover more about the iconic dishes that define Hawaiian cuisine – explore our recent feature, "The Best Loco Moco in Hawaiʻi in 2026," for a deeper dive. Join the celebration and taste the legacy!
Royal Hawaiian Surf Academy Returns to Lahaina Three Years After Wildfires
Lahaina welcomes back a cherished symbol of island resilience: the Royal Hawaiian Surf Academy. After enduring devastating losses in the August 2023 wildfires, the family-owned business has triumphantly returned to Front Street, resuming operations on August 1st. A heartfelt blessing led by *kahu* Greg marked the occasion, signifying a new chapter for the Kinimaka family and the Lahaina community. This homecoming represents not only a restoration of a local institution but also a powerful testament to the enduring spirit of Hawaiʻi. For those seeking to further explore the beauty and recovery of Kauaʻi, check out our recent piece, "The 5 Best Beaches on Kauaʻi in 2026." The Royal Hawaiian Surf Academy’s return is a vibrant celebration of culture and adventure.