Little Getaway to Waikiki, Hawaii
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I had the amazing pleasure of going to Waikiki in Oahu, Hawaii this past October to celebrate a friend’s wedding. Waikiki is, of course, famous for its world-class shopping along the iconic Kalakaua Avenue, sandy beaches, and the vibrant atmosphere. The palm trees and luxury resorts against the backdrop of the majestic Diamond Head crater makes this place truly a must-do, must-see destination for many. Oh, and let’s not forget those amazing surfers (or surfers wanna be’s) that you can see paddling belly down on their boards as they make their way to the distant horizon hoping to catch a wave or two or three. There are many places offering surfing lessons, of course!
I went without the family and met my life-long girlfriends there, some brought their families, while others, like me, didn’t. Some of us stayed at Halepuna Waikiki by Halekulani Hotel and others at the Outrigger Reef Waikiki Beach Resort. Both hotels are conveniently situated close to each other, making gathering easy and seamless. Not only that, but their proximity to the shopping area and numerous restaurants made exploring the city a breeze. I opted for an ocean-view guest room at Halepuna. There's something about gazing out at the endless expanse of the sea that always brings me an inner sense of calm. It’s truly mesmerizing for me. I can imagine and hear the rhythmic crashing waves as white foam hits the sand.
Exploring Waikiki's Charms
Kalakaua Avenue is lined with so many retail shops, from everyday stores like Long Drugs to high-end boutiques like Gucci and Chanel, it was a thrilling mix of retail therapy. And yes, indulging in a little bit (or a lot) of shopping with girlfriends is always a highlight! Dining experiences varied from casual beachside eateries to upscale restaurants, offering a taste of the local cuisine.
Outrigger Reef Waikiki Beach Resort
Some of my friends chose the Outrigger Reef Waikiki Beach Resort, known for its relaxed vibe and excellent facilities. The resort's restaurant and bar, the Monkeypod Grille and the Kani Ka Pilla Grille, were our go-to spots for casual gatherings. The atmosphere here is perfect for those looking for a laid-back dining experience.
The Club Family Suites at the Outrigger Reef are particularly noteworthy. Guests in these suites have dining access to the Voyager 47 Club Lounge, offering delicious and diverse food. It’s a great choice for families or groups looking for an inclusive dining experience with value.
Halepuna Waikiki by Halekulani
The Halepuna Hotel boasts a plethora of amenities. On the 8th floor, I indulged in the breathtaking rooftop infinity pool that provided views of the expansive ocean. Wow! For those who wish to maintain their fitness routine or tackle work commitments while enjoying the scenic surroundings, the hotel offers a business center and a well-equipped fitness room on the same floor. There is also a small veranda on the 8th floor to sip your drink or just relax. The hotel also conveniently provides beach bags complete with towels and lounge chairs; but, if you are looking for a more relaxing lounging experience, renting chairs is recommended, as opposed to lugging your hotel-provided chairs with you. It also has a world class restaurant - Umi by Vikram, which had delectable food (yum!). My room was modern and comfortable with a balcony overlooking the ocean. It was well-appointed and elegant. The staff at Halepuna Hotel were superb with their exceptional service and willingness to assist. They go above and beyond. They provided me with assistance on various arrangements, including car rentals and luaus, which is super awesome because I enjoyed my day instead of calling around. Ultimately, our group decided to visit the Koko Crater Arch Trail, the Northern Shore at Laniakea Beach, and the Dole Plantation.
Adventure Awaits: Beyond the Hotels
The Koko Arch Trail is a picturesque hiking trail with a moderate incline, leading hikers through lush greenery and colorful flora, eventually leading to breathtaking views of towering cliffs and the magnificent ocean. The highlight of the trail is the Koko Arch itself, a natural rock formation resembling an archway.
Laniakea Beach is on the North Shore of Oahu. It is known as a gathering point for sea turtles. It’s mesmerizing to watch them gracefully glide through the water as they make their way onto the shore to bask under the warm Hawaiian sky. This beach is also great for swimming, relaxing, and sunbathing. I enjoyed this beach, even if only for a short time.
Dole Plantation captures the essence of Hawaii's rich agricultural history. Things you can do at the Dole Plantation are: leisurely stroll along the Pineapple Garden Maze; indulge in a refreshing Dole Whip at the Plantation Grille; hop aboard the Pineapple Express Train for a narrated tour.
Other Things to Do for Longer Stays
For an extended vacation in Waikiki, consider exploring more of its beaches, participating in water sports, or delving deeper into the island's rich history and culture.
Explore other things to do such as luaus, dinner cruises, snorkeling, and other tours.
If you’re the adventurous type and want to explore on your own, here’s a map that shows the beaches, hiking trails, and other notable sights.
Celebrating Love and Friendship
Our week was filled to the brim with a whirlwind of planned gatherings and events. As the week progressed, we hosted a Bridal Shower for the bride-to-be at the stunning Orchid restaurant, located in the Halekulani Hotel. We were instantly greeted by the gentle ocean breeze in their vast open-air lobby, setting the tone for an unforgettable afternoon. This hotel looks amazing and worth checking out.
Then… the wedding! Held in the Waialae Country Club. It was truly amazing and beautiful. The evening went on with so much merriment and gaiety. Fabulous, fabulous night!
On our last day, we capped off our tropical getaway by spending a glorious day at the beach in front of the iconic Royal Hawaiian Hotel. My friend rented a few lounge chairs and umbrellas, making our spot into a comfortable space where we could relax and soak up the sun. It was the perfect setting to hang out with our friends and enjoy each other's company, share stories, catch-up the way only girlfriends can, all the while embraced by the waves and the warmth of the sun.
If you’re looking for a few days in the sun, Waikiki has something to offer everyone – whether you’re seeking an outdoor adventure, or just relaxing under the sun with a little retail therapy. It’s the perfect little get away.
Happy Travels!
Zellie, your forever a traveler.
