Earth/Sky/Mauka/Makai

The Groove general manager Shannon Peterson

AS MADONNA WOULD SAY, GET INTO THE GROOVE

The Groove Hawaii is all about fun under the sun, thanks to a vision put into motion by owner/CEO Billy Balding.

Born and raised in Hawaii, Balding wanted to offer a place that the public could enjoy every day of the week. He recognized that “thrill-tainment” was an untapped market in Honolulu, and those seeking that extra jolt to the senses will totally enjoy all that The Groove has to offer.

The Ala Moana Boulevard venue is probably most well known for its gas-powered go karts (the only ones on island) that can hit speeds of up to 70 mph.

“We do control your speed depending on your capabilities,” explains general manager Shannon Peterson.

Kids and adults have enjoyed the competitive nature of go-kart racing since The Groove’s inception eight months ago. (And honestly, some of these children have driving skills that put my own to shame.)

Kristen Tanaka, 11, takes the wheel LAWRENCE TABUDLO PHOTOS

Those who are categorized as “not excellent drivers” (like myself) can enjoy numerous other activities on the establishment’s grounds.

From the top of the 25-foot rockwall, climbers can take in the view of Diamond Head or jump their way 25 feet into the air with the bungee trampoline.

Those too afraid to try sky-diving can check out an awesome alternative: the wind tunnel.

“We require you to be at least 3 years old. But if you’re 90 years old and you don’t have any health problems or injuries, you can totally fly,” Peterson explains.

Sisters Kristen and Elise Tanaka race each other

The Groove is the perfect place to get your fun on in so many different ways. Within the warehouse are tons of games ranging from the light-up Mario Kart-esque GoGo Pony to sensational Hero of Robots.

In addition, there are billiards, darts, shuffle board, a photo booth (the kind that creates the illusion that you have eyes the size of saucers) and air hockey.

“I love (air hockey) as an adult,” adds Peterson. “It’s my favorite, and I don’t know why.”

With all of the fun activities that abound within The Groove’s area of enjoyment, it’s good to know that Southern-inspired food is on the menu.

Southern Flair Food Truck makes a mean Philly Cheese Steak and Fried Chicken Wings and Drummettes.

Tony Reyes and Joey Alzona are trying to save the world from outer-space invaders in arcade game Aliens Armageddon

“You get unlimited everything,” she says of the buy-out rates. “You basically get three acres of fun for a flat fee.”

For a list of prices and more information on upcoming events in November, visit groovehawaii.com or call 585-RACE.

The Groove Hawaii
805 Ala Moana Blvd.
Honolulu
808.585.7223