by Angie Yomo

Created on: May 07, 2008   Last Updated: April 18, 2011

You've been a dutiful tourist. You've ridden horses on the beach, hiked beside volcanic craters, zipped on the zipline, eaten too much at a luau, and made ten lauhala baskets at the museum. Heck, you've even skied on the slopes of Mauna Kea! Now what? Well throw off your plumeria lei, stop following the guy with the flag, and experience Hawaii in a way that is creative. For this you need a local, and I am here to help you with a list that takes you off the beaten tourist path:

- Shop at craft fairs. You can find listings for craft fairs in the local newspaper, and if you're lucky you'll be in town for a big one such as the Made in Hawaii Festival in August. You can find locally handcrafted items ranging from jewelry, to clothing, to lamps carved out of gourds and delectable island edibles. A far cry from the amusingly "Made in China" wares in the ABC store, craft fair vendors often supply handmade items to high end Hawaiian gift shops. This means quality is not compromised while prices are usually significantly below retail. Keep in mind that many vendors are cash only, so hit an ATM before you go.

- Hang from a cliff. Few people, even locals, are aware of Honolulu's climbing company Climb Aloha. A trained instructor will take you and your friends out to a cliff on the coast, teach you how to struggle your way to the top, control the ropes to ensure your safety, and reward you with a cold one (beer or water, your preference) at the days end. Also included are some digital photos so you may prove your daring to the world. With levels from experienced to advanced, there is something for everyone and if the climbing bug bites? You may purchase your own equipment at Climb Aloha's living room store.

- Find your hidden talent or lack thereof. A look at local community event listings will provide you with the location and time of lessons that will broaden your horizons. Choose from island specialties like ukulele, hula, and lauhala weaving or experience Tai Chi, yoga, salsa and even cooking classes. Go home with the satisfaction that not only did you relax and play, but you also learned something in paradise.

- Rent a beach house for part of your trip. This then enables you to go on a fishing charter, reel in your prize mahimahi, then take it home and cook it in your kitchen. It doesn't get fresher than that. You can also have BBQs with newfound local friends, and if you have a Jacuzzi? Do the favorite of a friend of mine: Boil in the Jacuzzi then jump into the ocean.

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