Hawaii Do’s and Don’ts

I watched an interesting show on the Travel Channel over the weekend called “Hawaii Do’s and Don’ts”. The show was filmed in 2007, so although it was a little out of date, many of the points they offered to people planning to visit the Islands were still relevant. If you are planning a trip to Hawaii anytime soon, be sure to keep these do’s and don’ts on your radar:

When in Hawaii:

DO

· Slow down to Hawaiian speed
· Say ‘aloha’ – this can be used to say hello and goodbye
· Book inter-island flights early to get the best deals and cheapest fares
· Plan for rainy days in Hawaii – it does happen from time to time
· Check if your hotel has a beach nearby – The Big Island has many hotels that are not walking distance to the beach, so if that’s important to you, ask before you book

DON’T
· Bring your bad driving habits with you to the Islands – always let people in/out of traffic and don’t your horn in anger – this is considered to be very rude
· Believe that Hawaii is merely grass shacks and hula girls – the Islands are very rich in culture
· Believe that all the Islands are the same – they are very diverse and all have something unique to offer
· Go surfing on the North Shore of O’ahu during winter if you are a first time surfer – waves at this time of the year are huge and you could be in for a pounding
· Forget your golf clubs – there are nearly 100 courses over 6 Islands

Waikiki Beach

I have to admit that Waikiki Beach is not my favorite beach in Waikiki - if you have been there you will know what I mean. The ratio of sand to person is VERY tiny, and when I go the beach I prefer to relax - the last thing I want to hear is the person next to me on their cell phone calling home asking about the weather, or how the family pet is coping in their absence. However, Waikiki Beach is probably the most famous beach in Hawaii, and I have to admit, the view of Diamond Head is spectacular.

We did head to Waikiki Beach not long after arriving in Hawaii - there is something about it that truly makes you feel like you are on vacation. Perhaps its the vendors nicely spread along the beach offering you surfing lessons, beach chairs and umbrellas, kayaks, a booze cruise, shave ice etc. Or maybe its the multi-cultural mix of people who are sharing the same experience as you. The Japanese still dominate Waikiki Beach, and their is nothing cuter than watching them attempt to run out to the waves, surfboard in hand. Or maybe it's that everyone, literally everyone, is just so happy to be at the beach with their friends and family having a good time. Although always busy, the beach has such a calming feeling it makes all your troubles disappear.

Waikiki Beach in all its glory!





This picture below is actually further down the beach, actually at Fort DeRussy Beach, which is where I prefer to hang out. Much quieter and the view of Diamond Head is just as good, if not better.

The Countdown to Jimmy's Wedding!

With our vacation fast approaching I am getting super excited! And with the vacation comes Jimmy's wedding, scheduled for February 14, 2009. Ah, Valentine's Day, how romantic. Jimmy and Sammy have decided to get married at Pyramid Rock Beach, which is a pretty cove of sand with a wonderful ocean view, located on the northern end of Kaneohe Marine Corp Base Hawaii. Originally Jimmy had wanted to get married on Lanikai Beach, but it seems that a lot of other people had the same idea. The wedding will be small and intimate, but I still haven't decided on an outfit. Maybe I will get my friend Jordana to give me a few ideas!

Here are some awesome pics of the beach, as well as the happy couple as they prepare for the big day on February 14. We can't wait to see you guys! Aloha!

Ko'Olina Lagoons

If you are looking for an alternative to Waikiki Beach, look no further than Ko'Olina Lagoons. Located in the Ko'Olina Resort Area, these four man-made lagoons are perfect for swimming at any time of the year. Each lagoon has a different name: Kolola, Hanu, Nai'a, and Ulua. You will need to rent a car or catch The Bus to get there, but the 20 mile drive west of Waikiki is worth the trip. Every time I have been there, the lagoons have been almost isolated; very different to the crazy hustle and bustle always present at Waikiki Beach. The lagoons make a great place for a picnic, perfect for families, with grass areas surrounding the lagoons and plenty of shade to relax. Two things to be careful of: slippery rocks that separate the four lagoons, and the current - it can be strong enough to suck you out to sea depending on the weather conditions.

If you prefer to avoid Waikiki completely, and you have a Timeshare, you can stay at the Mariott Ko'Olina Beach Club, which is in walking distance of the lagoons.

Lanikai Beach

My good friend Jimmy is getting married in February, and has decided on Lanikai Beach for the location. Located on the eastern side of Oahu, Lanikai beach is a short distance from the famous Kailua Beach, minus the big crowds of people. Lanikai itself is made up of a few streets and lavish homes, all but cut off from the rest of Kailua by Ka᾽iwa Ridge. Kailua Beach County Park is simply stunning, and often features on prestigious lists like “World’s Best Beaches" on the Travel Channel. It makes for an ideal swimming spot all year round, with water is so clear it’s amazing. There are no hotels in Kailua, but if you have a day to spare I would strongly suggest heading here for a wonderful beach experience. You can rent a car to get there, but it is also accessible by bus – check out The Bus timetable for the right bus route. I can’t wait to see the photos from the wedding – with one of the best backdrops in the world, its sure to be a wonderful day.