Aloha to Shangri La - Doris Duke's estate in Hawaii

Honolulu has a special jewel that most tourists miss - Shangri La. From its website, www.shangrilahawaii.org,

Shangri La is the Honolulu home of American philanthropist Doris Duke. Built in 1937, Shangri La houses an impressive collection of Islamic art and is considered one of Hawaii’s most architecturally significant homes. Shangri La is open to the public for tours and special programs, and can also be visited by virtual tour.

Shangri La has limited tours, so I booked reservations in advance for my mother in law on the Friday after Thanksgiving.   Yesterday, I took my mother.   I share some photos that will demonstrate why it is, indeed, an earthly paradise.

The above picture is the front entrance that mimics Islamic buildings - plain on the outside but opulent in the inside.

My mother and the smiling camel.

A banyon tree greets the shuttle bus.

We were not allowed to photograph the inside, but we
were treated to a fabulous view of the Pacific Ocean!

Ms. Duke built a breakwater to create her own harbor.

Ms. Duke has the million dollar view of Diamond Head.

Diamond Head hosts several pillboxes built after
the December 7 attack.  The state maintains a path inside
 the crater for hikers to climb up to the fabulous views.

Ms. Duke's harbor has become a swimming hole
for anyone who can find the path to it.  
Hawaiian law protects public access to coastlines.

Shangri La hosts special events in the guest house
overlooking the salt water swimming pool.

Ms. Duke imported tiles in Islamic design.
Some were custom made and some were purchased
at auction (which had come from Islamic buildings).

If you visit Honolulu, I recommend you set aside a morning (or afternoon) to visit Shangri La!   

Mahalo,

Kim in Hawaii

To learn more about 

The garden inspired by the Taj Mahal.