Hawaii 411

Everybody knows Honolulu has the only real gay nightlife in the state of Hawaii, but did you know you can find an authentic island experience -- that's still gay -- without limiting yourself to sipping mai tais from a balcony overlooking Kapahulu Avenue? Next time you're island bound, be sure to book one of the catamaran cruises hosted by Hula's Bar and Lei Stand (the city's best-known gay bar). This booze cruise, which costs $20, takes off nearly every Saturday afternoon from Waikiki and offers one of the best views of the iconic shoreline--including Diamond Head--as you skim over crystal clear water. There's wildlife everywhere (both on board and in the ocean) and you might even see a humpback in whale season. Better yet, your catamaran ticket means free post-voyage drinks back at the bar. Be sure to book in advance. Hulas.com

Suite Heart
I love Kimpton Hotels, and not only because this company has inns and restaurants in just about every U.S. city I visit, but because this San Francisco-based hotelier is dedicated to showing real appreciation to its dedicated LGBT clientele. Reserve your room through the Kimpton Red Ribbon Campaign and get a 15% discount off the advertised rate, with Kimpton donating $10 to a local HIV/AIDS charity for every night of your stay. Last year the company donated $150,000 through the program (nearly doubling the 2009 amount). That means 15,000 nights were booked by people who care about making a difference. Sounds like the kind of crowd I want to stay with. KimptonHotels.com