PLAYGROUND, Winner
Giggle Hill
Website: http://co.maui.hi.us
Since da World War II days--when this Kokomo Road park was a camp/training ground for the 4th Marine Division--“Giggle Hill” has been the perfect place to cavort under the trees’ canopy and count bases with your beau. While its nickname comes from teeheeing about tittie-touching, there are lots of (more wholesome) reasons to laugh. The park’s also prime real estate to fly a kite, or battle with buds using homemade medieval war implements (forged of foam noodles and duct tape), or snack on a Fukushima hotdog or five. But since 2004, the park’s boasted a nonpareil playground, built thanks to community donations. Named “Kalapukua Playground”--in short, meaning “magical playground”--the dark wood structure’s centerpiece is a glittering mosaic depicting frolicking honu. It’s a wonderland of spires, slides, swings and steps--and makes for a ready-made day trip with your innocent keiki (while you still can).