Hukilau 2005 - Details Announced!

Flounder - I'm so happy you're coming! Can't wait to see you! Keep watchin' out for the announcement about the Home Bar Tour - you gotta be there!

We already have more stuff up our sleeves to announce so stay tuned!

and I love you too!

Yee-Haw & Aloha,

The World of Tiki Kiliki

[ Edited by: tiki_kiliki on 2005-06-08 20:56 ]

I haven't been planning Hukilau, but I love you too....

How much for the kidney?

http://www.samgambino.com

We drove down to Key West after Hukilau last year and had a blast.

I'd like to suggest to those who haven't been there yet that you check out the bed & breakfasts that are all over the town. They are quite inexpensive. We stayed at the Ambrosia House and it was so lovely. Awesome free breakfast by the pool every morning, too!

Also, if you go to Southwest Airline's Web site http://www.southwest.com and subscribe to their new DING! fares thing, you will probably get a great rate to Ft. Lauderdale from any city they fly out of. I got our plane tix for Hukilau 2005 a few weeks ago through DING! and they were only $66 each way from BWI (Baltimore/Washington International). I believe they are refundable, too (not that we'll need a refund).

Deery

[ Edited by: Deery Luau on 2005-06-09 10:41 ]

On 2005-06-08 18:16, FLOUNDERart wrote:
I love you all.

I love you too, man.

I'll pass on your affection to Mr. Drasnin next time I speak with him.

And for further Hukilauness, check out the Hukilau MySpace profile...

http://www.myspace.com/hukilau

I just learned that Tease-O-Rama Burlesque 2005 is happening the weekend before Hukilau, in San Francisco at Bimbos. This, to me, is like telling a kid that Christmas and Halloween will be held on adjacent days -- double the excitement and fun, packed into a short period of time.

I've attended all 3 previous Hukilau events, and have also attended all 3 previous Tease-O-Rama events. In fact, I first met both Tiki Kiliki and Swanky at the first Tease-O-Rama held in New Orleans.

Destiny calls for me to be 4 for 4 for both events, no matter what the cost to my wallet or body.

I hope to see several of you others - especially those in the S.F. region, at both events too.

Vern

Vern, I knew there was a reason I liked you.

I like your attitude, son.

You're an inspiration to us all.

These were my top picks based on looking at their web site and reading reviews in guidebooks and tripadvisor and other web sites.

Valhalla Point
http://www.keysresort.com/

Bonefish Resort
http://www.bonefishresort.com/index.htm

Lime Tree Bay Resort
http://www.limetreebayresort.com

Ragged Edge Resort
http://www.ragged-edge.com/index.html

Parmer's Resort (docks, no beach)
http://www.parmersplace.com/

I have stayed at several resorts in the Keys and here's my humble opinion: The best way to find a place to stay is to just go and improvise. October is on the fringe for being "The Season', which usually goes from the fall to spring. You can expect to pay about 25% more during the season and can find discounts up to 50% off during the summer. The summers are very hot and sticky but your favorite libation can cure that. If you're looking to spend the days lounging on beach with your toes in the sand - don't go to the Keys. There are no "sandy beaches" it is mostly Limestone and coral shoreline.

The Bonefish - stayed there with some friends and had a great time. They are located about 5 miles outside Marathon and ther's not much to do in the imediate area. That didn't matter because we took our own party with us. They have a pool and are located on a shallow sand bar perfect for low tide becah parties. The accomodations are fair with murals in every room. A nice little family-run hotel.

The Limetree - I will be staying there at the end of June and will post a review later.

If you go check out the Rainbarrel in Islmarada. Its a art retreat with gallery space - Very cool stuff. Also just past the Seven-Mile bridge in Marathon is Bahia Honda state park - AWESOME - it has a real beach and you can snorkel on the reef (waist deep for about 200 yards out) right off the beach. Also go to any marina and watch the fishing guys clean their catch - you see an amazing show of 100+ pound Tarpon feed.

The upper Keys hold a lot of unique things to do. Its definately worth the drive. Enjoy.

On 2005-06-10 08:04, AlohaStation wrote:
I have stayed at several resorts in the Keys and here's my humble opinion: The best way to find a place to stay is to just go and improvise.

I appreciate the personal reviews of some of those motels by someone who has actually been to some of them. But I can't agree that winging it without a reservation is a good idea in the Keys, or in most places for that matter. I don't like spending my vacation driving around looking for a room and settling for one I don't really like. Many of the resorts I listed get booked way in advance and cater to repeat customers, so I would pick one and book ahead.

This one has been recommended by Andy of Chip&Andy: http://www.popps.com/ Turn your volume down though - the music will kill ya. You can't see how cute the place is by the pics on the site but it's a great little 50's hotel!

On 2005-06-10 10:46, tiki_kiliki wrote:
This one has been recommended by Andy of Chip&Andy: http://www.popps.com/ Turn your volume down though - the music will kill ya. You can't see how cute the place is by the pics on the site but it's a great little 50's hotel!

"Capture the rapture", indeed!

Key Largo is a good choice if you want to go to nearby John Pennekamp State Park to do some snorkeling. There are great coral reefs there but you have to take a tour boat out to them.

The sandy beaches are closer to Key West (like the previously mentioned Bahia Honda State Park).

I am really excited about this event! My wife and I have been avid Tikiphiles for about six years, but we haven't met anyone as excited as we are about it. The Hukilau will be our first opportunity to meet artists, cooks, mixologists and fellow fanatics! I bought my passes and made my reservations at the motel and the Mai Kai this past Sunday. I am stoked! I am particulary interested in learning how to make unusual Tiki Drinks. Hope to make some new friends as well.

Trader Rick,

Welcome! You'll make friends quickly at Hukilau. It's one of the best events, and I'm not just saying that because it's mine. There is just a great embrace from the Ohana and an abundance of Aloha spirit. Mixologists will fill their rooms with many different types of Rum and will have plenty to share.

Looking forward to meeting you in October!

Well I'm gonna say I'm in at Bahia Mar.

See ya'll soon!

If you are stopping in Key Largo and have extra
time and money let me suggest kayaking with
Kayak Bob. He's got a shop at Howard Johnsons bay side just south of John Pennekamp. You can paddle through a mangrove covered canopy maze with all kinds of sea life. He's got rates for going solo or a guided tour. Check back later
to see if his website is up and running:
http://www.kayakbob.com

I need to find a room for the 5th, as I'll be with Monkeyman the other nights. Does someone wants to share a room with me for the wednesday night ??

Hi!

We're new to TC, been collecting for 10 years but didn't know this was here. Great site! Can't wait until the Hukilau but want to know how to hook up with Central Florida ohana. We're in St. Pete.

I just called to make reservations at the Bahia Mar and it seems that the Hukilau special rate rooms are now sold out for Thursday, October 6. :(

Aloha!

Just spoke with the Bahia Mar and they are opening more rooms for us. Within the hour you should be able to book your reservation. Call after 4:30pm EST

Mahalo!

Now THAT'S what I call service!

Mahalo, Kiliki!

[ Edited by: Deery Luau on 2005-06-27 13:01 ]

On 2005-06-10 11:13, thejab wrote:

On 2005-06-10 10:46, tiki_kiliki wrote:
This one has been recommended by Andy of Chip&Andy: http://www.popps.com/ Turn your volume down though - the music will kill ya. You can't see how cute the place is by the pics on the site but it's a great little 50's hotel!

"Capture the rapture", indeed!

Key Largo is a good choice if you want to go to nearby John Pennekamp State Park to do some snorkeling. There are great coral reefs there but you have to take a tour boat out to them.

The sandy beaches are closer to Key West (like the previously mentioned Bahia Honda State Park).

Actually, you do not HAVE to take the tour bout out to them. When I go to pennycamp, I prefer to rent my own boat. Pennycamp rents boats that are about 18 to 21 feet for approximately $25-$30 per hour (plus gas charges). If you are confident in your boating skills, you can navigate yourself out to the reefs using a map they will give you. You can use your own gear or rent a snorkel, mask and fins from them for $10. (you get to keep the snorkle). It costs about $40 per person to go out on the tour boat. So, if you are party of 4, then its worthwhile to rent a boat for a half day. If only two people are going, then its a bit more costly and it might make more sense to go on the tour boat.

Regarding places to stay in the Keys, there is another option to hotels. I've used a site called cyberrentals.com to rent cabins in North Carolina and found great places with that site. I know that there are many listings on cyberrentals.com for houses and condos and it might be worth checking out.

[ Edited by: joefla70 on 2005-06-27 18:19 ]

This will be my first.... I can't wait. 3 months left. YAY!!!!!!!!!!!!!
"Hang Loose"

I am signed up for Hukilau 2005! This will be my first time for attending anything tiki. I am quite excited. The wife? She kinda looked at me sideways and said, "Ooookaaaay." I am all about something new. She takes a little more persuasion. She's a sport though.

Monty, she'll love it. Great people. That's what makes the events great and keeps the non-tiki-freak S.O. on board.

In response to many about the Hukilau 2005 website this year - we are working on an HTML version as we speak. We realize that everyone may not be able to view the site, especially if you are on dial up.

This should be ready in the next week. Mahalo for your patience!

[ Edited by: Chip and Andy 2012-05-01 20:28 ]

Aloha All,

I've been lurking more than posting on these boards lately. Time and money, I sure could use more of both! The Mrs. and I might have missed last years Hukilau, but we are not missing this years. We just booked everything but the airfare. I didn't think we'd be able to attend this year either, but my wife, who had such a great time 2 years ago said we are NOT missing this year. We are looking forward to seeing some ole familiar faces and meeting some new TCers. Thanks again tiki_kilki for what looks like a killer event!

Would a small child enjoy or be scared at the Saturday night show at the Mai Kai?
He loves drums and pretty girls, even though he's only 1.
I need to make Hukilau plans and would like some feedback on this.

Mahalo,
Joe

Tiki Joe,

Your child would be delighted. Children generally get very excited with the show at the Mai Kai. Their eyes light up and they tend to want to dance throughout a lot of the performance. The poi balls are a favorite for kids and also the fire dancers!

You shouldn't worry at all. Plus, there are so many people that bring their kids to Hukilau and to the Mai Kai. If you're staying over on Sunday they have a show that is performed by children too!

I saw this earlier last week and thought it could be a good resource.

http://www.tikkibeach.com

Thanks, Tiki Kiliki!

On 2005-07-10 20:40, Tiki Joe wrote:
Would a small child enjoy or be scared at the Saturday night show at the Mai Kai?
He loves drums and pretty girls, even though he's only 1.
I need to make Hukilau plans and would like some feedback on this.

Mahalo,
Joe

Joe,
I think you are the one who can answer that question. At one, it's the temperment of your child that will tell. It's a couple hours of dinner and show in a dark room. My daughter was very quiet and I took her to a lot of different shows and she was never a problem. Slept through some. As for kids of age 4-25, sure. But infants, it's something only you can tell.

For those who come and decide to visit the Keys here's a review.

These were my top picks based on looking at their web site and reading reviews in guidebooks and tripadvisor and other web sites.

Valhalla Point
http://www.keysresort.com/

Bonefish Resort
http://www.bonefishresort.com/index.htm

Lime Tree Bay Resort
http://www.limetreebayresort.com

Ragged Edge Resort
http://www.ragged-edge.com/index.html

Parmer's Resort (docks, no beach)
http://www.parmersplace.com/

We just back from the lime Tree Resort on Long Key. Located just below Islmarada in a fairly remote part of the Keys. This place had no tikis and was great!! The rooms were clean and the employees friendly. If you go, make sure you bring everything you need - the closest grocery store is about 15 miles away. There is an Italian restaurant right next door that serves aall day long. There is a pool, a boat dock, alot of hammocks, grills and a "beach" area that is a great place to hang during the day. We snorkeled right off the beach and had a great time drinking in waist deep water (see picture). Lobster season opens the week after we were there and while snorkeling I've never seen so many lobsters just hanging around. We saw lobsters, nurse sharks, a sea turtle and a million small fish. WE WILL GO BACK!

Here's a picture of our group watching the sunset at the end of the day. CHEERS.

Here is another reason to make the trip to Hukilau - I just saw this exhibit listed in the latest issue of Dwell magazine.

The Museum of Art, located in Fort Lauderdale, has an exhibit titled "Going, Going, Gone? Mid-Century-Modern Architecture in South Florida" that runs through October 30.

"Many of these buildings were erected in the 1950s during a period of space age optimism and confidence in the future, and the architects of the age reflected this in their dynamic design." - excerpted from the museum exhibit website http://www.moafl.org/exhibitions/goinggoinggone/goinggoinggone.htm

Vern

We are currently planning an outing right now Vern! It's supposedly an amazing exhibit indeed!

I bumped my post on the mid-century modern exhibit in Beyond Tiki here so it can be found more easily:

http://www.tikicentral.com/viewtopic.php?topic=15451&forum=6&0

I can't seem to find the cost for the Hukilau's 3-day pass on the website or on tiki central. Does anyone know how much it is or where to find the info?
Thanks!

-Nu

Hi Everyone,

What is the status on Hukilau 2005? I didn't really have any intention of going. But I realized I have a free r/t from southwest that expires on Oct 11. Other externalities such as my friends are broke or not interested in tiki, and being recently single, I decided I might just go.

Is there any hotel rooms still available? I don't want to stay at a far away hotel myself. Is Hukilau still have room?

Please let me know.

On 2005-08-09 13:34, paranoid123 wrote:
Hi Everyone,

What is the status on Hukilau 2005? I didn't really have any intention of going. But I realized I have a free r/t from southwest that expires on Oct 11. Other externalities such as my friends are broke or not interested in tiki, and being recently single, I decided I might just go.

Is there any hotel rooms still available? I don't want to stay at a far away hotel myself. Is Hukilau still have room?

Please let me know.

Hope you can make it P123, the best way to find out an answer is to do the work yourself. Go the the website http://www.thehukilau.com/ sign up , get the group discount codes and contact the Bahia Cabana and Bahia Mar Hotels and go for it!!!

Paranoid123 - as Mr. Smiley suggested, the best way to keep informed of Hukilau 2005 is to go to the website and sign up for news. I will be sending an email out tonight.

The Bahia Cabana is sold out but the Bahia Mar still have rooms available. If you need further assistance please do not hesitate to email me at [email protected]

Hope you can make it!

NuAku,

The Hukilau weekend passes are as follows:

$35 for a 3 day pass which includes entry into the event for Friday, Saturday & Sunday. You must still make your hotel reservations and your Mai Kai reservations for Saturday night.

If you're interested in attending the Home Bar Tour that is a separate ticketed event. See the post here in the events section on how you can come along!

$45 for a 4 day pass which includes entry into the event for Thursday - Sunday. Again, you must still make your hotel and Mai Kai reservations.

Hope to see you there!

On 2005-08-09 14:50, mrsmiley wrote:

Hope you can make it P123, the best way to find out an answer is to do the work yourself. Go the the website http://www.thehukilau.com/ sign up , get the group discount codes and contact the Bahia Cabana and Bahia Mar Hotels and go for it!!!

Thanks MrSmiley, I asked the question initially, because I didn't understand the protocol on thehukilau.com. I thought that I would register and pay for it, THEN make the reservation for hotel, and restaurant. I didn't want to commit to this if I couldn't get a hotel room, so I posted the question.

Well I registered on the website anyway happily discovering you don't have to commit your CC#, then I called the hotel to find out that the cheaper hotel Bahia Cabana is all sold out. Bahia Mar is still available, but the cheapest room is $139. That's a lot for 3 nights. I'll think about it.

Kevin

Kevin - There are many small inexpensive motels near (1-2 miles) the Bahia Mar. I'm staying in one. You can walk or take a cab to the events if you're drinking - and I expect you will be!

Check out this web site for ideas:

http://www.visitflorida.com/destinations/accommodations.php/pAnchorFilter=Fort%2520Lauderdale/ca=55

You can enter the Bahia Mar's address in Yahoo maps and then search for hotels nearby to help narrow it down.

If you've never been to the Mai-Kai you will not be disappointed!

Kiliki is working on another nearby economy hotel for the event now that the Cabana is full. There should be another option on the site soon for those lookinig for a place to crash on a budget.

Hello all! I will be in Ft. Lauderdale visiting family during the Hukilau. I'll be free on Fri. and hope to do some shopping there. This will be my first tiki event ever and I'm psyched. Hopefully I'll find some stuff for the tiki bar room I'm planning. If anyone wants to share any info about the Hukilau with me I'd love to hear it. Thanx.

You only go thru this life once...

[ Edited by: codelisa 2005-08-09 20:39 ]

I really do appreciate the information about the hotels, as I won't know if I'll be going for another month at least.

Even though I'm without a doubt gong to be there next year, this years festivities are really looking fantastic.

Woo-HOO!

finally getting my act together to attend Hukilau. This time it's happening!! (especially since my new Kane's family is in Miami.)

Any update on another discount hotel besides Bahia Cabana for the late-comers?

Much obliged,
Manic cat

Manic Cat - I'll be announcing details this evening! The website won't be updated for a couple of days but you will be able to book as soon as tomorrow!

Hukilau 2005 is going to be amazing guys!

Hey!

Looks like I just might be attending this year. wahoo!

I'm currently looking for a roommate. PM me if interested.

-Z