We have not jumped on a plane since heading to New Orleans for our last anniversary, and to everyone who flew during the last two years—you are much braver than I! Even after analyzing surge trends of the last two years thinking I could time this right, COVID decided to have a surge while I was on an island 2,500 miles away. If that’s not a kick in the coconuts, I don’t know what is. I’m sure you’ve heard of someone traveling to Hawaii lately, and if you haven’t, then you’re probably that someone! To everyone reading, E Komo Mai to this blog post—let’s begin!

Of course, Jenny loving all things Disney, we had to stay a portion of our trip at Aulani Resort. At first, I was shocked at the price tag and the lack of its all-inclusivity. However, when you break down the experience it’s not so bad. An average room will cost about $650 a night, not including parking (don’t even get me started). However, given that you will receive Disney-quality guest rooms, customer service, entertainment and activities, beach access with chairs and umbrellas—it breaks down to the equivalent of a hotel stay with theme park admission (Lazy river all day!). It’s comfortable to say the least!

Along the beach there is a jogging path that connects 3 lagoons that several resorts share. It was a great way to start mornings at the resort and I officially became that guy that exercises on vacation.

After some character photos and eating over-priced, Disney-quality food (you know), we headed toward Waikiki for some of our favorite city eats and shopping!

Stumbled across this alleyway connecting the street to the beach—”Surfer’s Alley” is a place for dudes and dudettes to park and lock their surfboard. It makes for some cool touristy photos!

I don’t remember two Waiola Shave ice stands, but you bet Jenny wanted to go to both. I didn’t fight it. Also learned that “shave ice” is the proper name and not “shaved ice.” Grammar police does not exist in Hawaii.

Did you know: Waiola Shave Ice has a patented ice shaver—you will not find that ice texture anywhere else!

Somewhere in Hawaii Kai, waiting to dine at the original Roy’s restaurant, we saw some rowers practicing during an epic golden hour with an amazing cloudscape.

We also came across a lookout point that seemed very popular for wedding/engagement photos. There was a barrier with signage saying that entering the space was dangerous, but YOLO.

Checked out this place—I think this was called Sandy Beach. You know, cuz sand… beach… makes sense to me.

Honestly, I don’t even know where this is. Possibly Makapu’u Beach Park. Just keep driving and stopping and you’ll find some magic, like this person fishing using ocean rods and PVC pipe! Wherever this was, it was home to a lot of small tide pools and creatures like crab and small fish!

The last stop for us was Lanikai Beach, which is regarded as one of the most beautiful beaches on Oahu. The sand here was pillowy soft, almost like that fake sand stuff for kids that you get at like Brookstone or whatever. Although the water is arguably more turquoise here, it looked just about the same as every other beach outside of Waikiki. However, being from the California coast, anything looks better.

Cute birb! Red Crested Cardinals were hanging out around Hawaii.

Has all of this visual walking and driving made you hungry yet? Here are some tasty eats we had on the Island!

Helena’s Hawaiian Food – Eat It

Open Tuesday through Friday only (weekend vacations please take note!), this place is no tourist trap! It looks to be enjoyed by locals and tourists alike, and the Pipikaula beef short ribs are the go-to. These ribs are dry-aged, giving them a jerky-like outside with a meaty, juicy texture that goes well with rice and Hawaiian mac salad. Pro tip: dip the meat in the Hawaiian pink salt to elevate that flavor! Other favs are the Chicken long rice. Laulau, which is like kalua pork mixed with some fish wrapped in a leaf, can be skipped.

The Original Roy’s in Hawaii Kai – Eat It

With the majority of this menu being seafood, I’m sure I am not one to say whether or not you should eat here. However, the braised short rib I had was nothing short of divine. In fact, I’d say it is the best I have ever had, topping the Obama Short rib recipe by chef Marcus Samuelsson. This short rib with a mustard sauce can’t be beat. Jenny also ordered crab cakes, which she says were also thee very best! The szechuan ribs were a great addition with a side of rice.

Liliha Bakery – Eat it

This bakery is famous for its cream puffs, particularly the coco puff, but I didn’t find that out until writing this blog post. Clearly, I am the coco puff in this situation. However, the ube mochi donut I had was chewy and light, far better than the ones at Mochinut! Yum!

Marugame Udon – Eat It

Classic! Don’t let the long lines deter you because this cafeteria-style noodery moves pretty quickly. Because of its popularity, you’re pretty much guaranteed to get freshly-made noodles and tempura here. I go for the cold version, especially on a hot tropical day! Los Angeles locations available (but nowhere near as good as this!). Also noodery isn’t a word, just made it up. Can we start a trend? #noodery

Waiola Shave Ice – Eat It

As mentioned above, we went to both locations in HNL and I can confirm that they are equally delicious. Whichever one you’re closer to, you can expect the same snowy texture and flavorful syrups. Jenny also noticed that they use a specific type of condensed milk, which she can identifiy by a picture of an old man on it. She called it “Condensed milk with the old man on it.” Branding at its finest.

Royal Hawaiian Center – Farmers Market – Beat It

The ultimate tourist trap—this farmers market inside the major shopping center in Waikiki got us. They had a variety of sliced fruits, meat on a stick, and knick knacks, but I would have probably ben better off with produce at a local grocery store. The assorted fruit cup that I purchased definitely had something sprayed onto it (probably to preserve its color or prevent oxidation) which changed the taste of the actual fruit. I did however try sugar cane for the first time which was a fun experience! Thankfully Jenny was there to tell me that you’re not supposed to eat it, just chew and suck—weird. I may need therapy.

Musubi Cafe Iyasume – Beat It

I SAID IT. This last time having the musubi here was such a disappointment that I dare say I will not be coming back. The rice was overpacked (not to mentioned overcooked and soggy), waited half an hour for the order—just overall a poor experience. Try it, try it somewhere else, don’t try it—do whatever you want. I would have rather had a Costco hot dog.

After all of that eating, a solo walk on the moonlit Waikiki beach was a great way to burn off some calories and take a cool night shot of course.

So after two years of not going anywhere, Hawaii was the ultimate de-stresser, pressure-relief valve, vacation we’ve had in a long time. In all of its tropical splendor, Hawaii has managed to become our most traveled-to destination (4 times between the two of us!). Thanks for letting us in, and here’s to hoping for more travel in the coming months. Bye!