Our first few days on O’ahu were spent enjoying the scenery, novel abundance of plants, the lagoon, and all the dozens of poke bowl flavors.
One of our day trips was to the Dole Plantation. The plants and views were amazing, I go into more detail about our experience on the previous O’ahu post HERE. Make sure to check it out, we happened upon some great tips to making our wait times much shorter!
When in Hawaii, you go to a luau! The Paradise Cove luau was very impressive and well planned. Upon arrival, everyone received leis and swipe cards to use for drinks or the gift store. A photographer was set up near the front and they captured a beautiful photo of our group. Then, the kiddos (and adults!) had a chance to throw spears and play a bowling style game. We also had the chance to have photos made with a few beautiful macaws. Once the program began, we learned about the process of cooking the pig in an imu pit. After, we learned different ways to wrap/wear a Hawaiian sarong followed up with a few Hula moves. Now it was time to eat! The pig was rolled right through the middle of the tables! The wonderful performers provided us with non-stop entertainment, while the kitchen staff kept the food and drinks coming for hours. I definitely recommend booking a luau for at least one evening.
One day was spent just driving up around the eastern shore up to the North Shore. The sights were simply breathtaking! Driving over the impressive mountain range, I had to stop for a photo. The picture does not do the scenery justice. These mountains were huge! I noticed that the north of the mountain range was very lush and rainy, but the southern side of the island had a more arid desert look. The day ended with a lounge by the lagoon in a sewn by me swimsuit using a pattern designed by a Hawaiian resident – the Evie by Carimaya.
Our last day, we visited all the well known sights in the Honolulu area. First up, Pearl Harbor. Make sure to book the ferry on the website beforehand. The second picture shows some extra special treatment when the sailor found out my dad was Retired Navy. The boys received a bosun pipe salute and got to toot the horn. We found a hip eatery center called SALT and chose to satisfy our lumpia and ube craving at Shay’s. The kids were thrilled with purple pancakes, and so were the adults! Before we checked into the airport for our flight home, we visited the Bishop Museum. A fascinating space rich with history and amazing craftsmanship — a must see!
We absolutely can not wait to go back! Maybe Maui next time!
