The Hawaii version of this "International Year of the Reef," is spawning a series of interactive and educational activities about the islands' marine eco-systems and how to care for them.

Outrigger Hotels & Resorts in Hawaii, in collaboration with the National Marine Sanctuary Program (NMSP) and a network of nonprofit organizations, is offering a series of programs and activities at its oceanfront properties as part of the hotels' ongoing commitment to the local environment. Most are free to hotel guests.

Upcoming Year of the Coral Reef activities include:

Bishop Museum Lectures Series April 10, May 8 and June 12, 6 p.m. Information: www.bishopmuseum.org

8th Annual Coral Reef Awareness Day April 19, 2008 Keauhou Beach Resort, Hawaii Island Supported in part by the Keauhou Beach Resort. Information: Sara Peck, 808-329-2861.

7th Annual Kona Underwater Classic May 24 - 31, 2008 Keauhou Beach Resort, Hawaii Island Dive, shoot and learn from some of the finest underwater photographers. Registration fee. Information: www.cenpac.com/konaclassic.htm

Outrigger Reef Builders Wednesdays, June 25 through July 16 at Outrigger Reef on the Beach. Children of all ages are invited to join Outrigger and NOAA to build a coral exhibit and make sea stars, butterfly and tang fish to take home. Information: Luana Maitland, 808-924-6007.

Dr. Sylvia Earle July 29, 2008 Outrigger Reef on the Beach, Oahu World-renowned marine biologist Dr. Sylvia Earle will give a special presentation. Information: Luana Maitland, Outrigger Reef on the Beach, 808-924-6007.

Papahanumokuakea Exhibit August 2008 Keauhou Beach Resort, Hawaii Island This special exhibit at the Keauhou Beach Resort features stunning images of Papahanumokuakea (Northwest Hawaiian Islands) by internationally noted photographer Susan Middleton.

IMAX Coral Reef Adventure Throughout 2008 at Polynesian Cultural Center, Oahu Admission fee. Information: www.polynesia.com

Bottom Time Talks Get an underwater scoop on Hawaii's marine environment at the Bottom Time Hawaii's dive shop at Keauhou Beach Resort. Information: 808-331-1858.

Kohala Center's Kahalu'u Bay Project / Reef Teach Learn about proper coral reef etiquette at the Kohala Center's weekly Reef Teach programs at Kahalu'u Beach Park, located adjacent to the Keauhou Beach Resort. Evening programs at the hotel are also available. Information: www.kohalacenter.org

The Island Explorer Kit is a free gift when you stay three or more nights at the Outrigger Waikiki on the Beach, Outrigger Reef on the Beach, Keauhou Beach Resort hotels and all Outrigger condominium resorts in Hawaii.

With this inaugural event East Honolulu residents and visitors will have an opportunity to spend their Independence Day in Hawaii Kai, enjoying the festivities as a part of the neighborhood, avoiding the hassle and costs of driving to town, fighting traffic and searching for non-existent parking on this traditionally busy holiday.

Meet friends, join the families and celebrate our freedom. There is no admission and the entertainment and the fireworks show is FREE!

BayFest 2008 is open to the general public. Family fun includes local musical entertainers, E.K. Fernandez Carnival rides and games, military displays, contests, a nightly fireworks show and more. Marine Corps Community Services organizes this annual event. For more details, please visit www.bayfesthawaii.com.

BayFest is an annual event organized by Marine Corps Community Services (MCCS). Proceeds enhance the quality of life for the Marines, Sailors and family members stationed aboard Marine Corps Base Hawaii.

The Polynesian Cultural Center celebrates its 45th anniversary with a wide array of festivals and competitions that represent Polynesian cultures preserved and shared throughout the PCC's long and proud history.

For more information on prices for each event, or to make reservations, please call (800) 367-7060 or in Hawaii call 293-3333 or visit www.Polynesia.com. The events schedule is subject to change without notice so guests are encouraged to call or visit the Web site to confirm availability.

Paddleboarding's North Shore roots lay with the area's famed lifeguards, who keep watch over the these beaches during the giant winter surf. In summer, with the 20- to 40-foot surf completely subsided, lifeguards take to paddleboarding to stay in shape. Over the years, many have gone on to become champion paddlers. They have also grown the sport internationally and this race is an excellent example.