The World-Famous Holiday Destination for Babymoon Getaways
Hawaii is the only island state in the US and is located miles away from North America in the Pacific Ocean. This magnificent state is all alone in this vast ocean where it offers incredible turquoise waters and fine white sand beaches.
When it comes to beaches and clear waters it always takes me back to my childhood years in the Philippines where I swam in clear blue waters and bathed in the sun. After a year of COVID-19 travel restrictions, we finally have the go signal to travel to Hawaii. My husband and I were all in and ready to fly. Surprisingly, he was more excited than me as he had spent 5 years of his life in Hawaii when he was young. It was like coming back home to something familiar for both of us. Let’s go!
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Travel Tips
- For flights, Skyscanner is excellent for comparing the best airline deals.
- For accommodations, our family trusts Booking.com for reasonable prices.
- Organize your trips easily with a Travel Planner.
- For tried-and-true travel and hiking gear, check out our Amazon Storefront.
THINGS TO DO BEFORE FLYING TO HAWAII: COVID REQUIREMENTS
1. Schedule your COVID testing with partnered airlines.
2. Download the Safe Travel App ahead of time. https://travel.hawaii.gov/#/
Upload the COVID Results on the app and fill out the health questionnaire before the flight.
Make sure to screenshot the QR Code before check-in.
3. Online check-in the night before for the flight and screenshot boarding pass.
For convenience, avoid any check-in baggage which makes checking-in easier at the airport.
FIRST DAY
- March 26, Flight, Check-in Hotel and Groceries
- Flight: Hawaiian Airlines: Los Angeles to Honolulu
- 6 hours and 30 minutes
- Price: 598 USD for two-person
How to get to Honolulu Airport to Downtown
- Daniel K. Inouye International Airport to Ohia Waikiki Studio: 20-30 minutes
- Lyft ride: 35-45 USD
There are buses available outside the airport vicinity but the travel time is longer and we wanted to save time. As Saul keeps saying, "Time is Gold."
Where to Stay: Budget Deal
- Check-in: Ohia Waikiki Studio Suites
- Address: 2280 Kuhio Avenue, Waikiki, Honolulu, HI 96815, United States
- March 26 - 29, 4 days 3 nights
- 330 USD
Most hotels have a resort fee with Ohia Waikiki Studio the resort fee includes:
· Essential Aloha Snack Pack (1 box per room) with complimentary hand sanitizer and disposable face masks
· Complimentary coffee, iced tea, and water station in the lobby
· Free Bag storage (the staff secured our bags when we check-out early and headed for our tour)
· Parking fees apply and security deposit upon check-in
Our studio has a balcony, stovetop, and kitchen. Make sure to request ahead of time for a microwave, frying pan, and utensils. The suite has a great location but the service is average and you can hear the noise from the street. Breakfast is not included and most restaurants open late so we decided to get some groceries.
Where to Buy Supplies
Across the street from Ohia Waikiki Suites are two small grocery stores
1. Dukes Lane Market and Eatery
2. ABC Store
Groceries: 20 USD ( breakfast items include water, eggs, dish soap, and clementines)
We purchased ahead of time our favorite Seeds of Change Organic Quinoa and Brown Rice for breakfast.
Pork Abodo and Loco Moco
Eat Local Meal Favorites All below 10 USD
Dukes Lane Market and Eatery:
- Loco Moco
- Pork Adobo
- Salt and Vinegar Chicken Wings
Pork Abodo
I was surprised to see Adobo as a local favorite in Hawaii, as this dish is also a famous Filipino food in the Philippines. This is what happens when East meets West and boom Hawaiian-style Filipino pork adobo.
Loco Moco
I'm not a fan of pairing up my burger steak with rice but this Hawaiian Comfort food is a must-try. Traditionally, the loco moco is made of white rice, topped with a hamburger, a fried egg, and brown gravy.
Try the Famous Marukame Udon
Marukame Udon Waikiki
1 minute walk away from Ohia Waikiki Studio
Address: 2310 Kūhiō Ave. #124, Honolulu, HI 96815
Dinner: 22 USD for two persons
Waikiki Beach
SECOND DAY
March 27, Chill Day, Food Trip and Explore the beach
Explore the Beaches
- Ohia Waikiki Studio to Waikiki Beach: 10 minutes walk
- Ohia Waikiki Studio to Hilton Lagoon and Kahanamoku Beach: 25 minutes walk or 7 minutes by car
Go For a Hike
- Ohia Waikiki Studio to Diamond Head: 15 minutes by car
- Ohia Waikiki Studio to Nu'uanu Pali Lookout: 20 minutes by car
Check the Nature-themed Malls
- Ohia Waikiki Studio to International Market Place: 4 mins walk
- Ohia Waikiki Studio to Royal Hawaiian Center: 6 mins walk
- Ohia Waikiki Studio to Waikiki Beach Walk: 10 mins walk
Go on a Food Trip
Malasadas @ Leonard's Bakery
These malasadas are another must-try local food, best when eaten fresh from the bakery. I loved the original malasadas with no fillings on them, then paired it up with some local coffee, oh yeah! heaven by your side.
- 30-minute walk or 7 minutes by car from Ohia Waikiki Studio
- Address: 933 Kapahulu Ave, Honolulu, HI 96816
- 1 dozen malasadas puff and two malasadas: 25 USD
Fresh Poke @ Ono Seafood
A few minutes away from Leonard's bakery is a popular local food favorite. Saul went crazy for their fresh poke, one of the best he had ever tried, considering he lived in Japan for 9 years he knew when he found a hidden gem. I, on the other hand, had to pick a cooked poke as I'm happily pregnant, hearing him having foodgasm was good enough for me, ahahaa.
- 28 minutes walk or 6 minutes by car from Ohia Waikiki Studio
- Address: 747 Kapahulu Ave, Honolulu, HI 96816
- Two poke bowls with drinks: 20 USD
THIRD DAY
- March 28, 8:00 am - 5 pm
- Full-Day 16 Location Island Tour
- Island Tour Including Snorkeling, Tour Guide, Snacks, and Beverages with Grand Tours Around the Island
- Price: 60 USD per person
- We purchased our Island Tour with GROUPON.
- Free Pick up and Drop Off. Tour Pick-up is in front of Ross Dress for Less Outlet (2 minutes walk away from Ohia Waikiki Studio)
Explore the Island
If you rented a car you can follow this list for the road trip. However, you'll be missing some great stories about Hawaii. Our tour guide, Jake, was an excellent storyteller, he told us the myths and legends of the places we went to, local intriguing facts, and captivating Hawaiian secrets.
Here are my highlights for this island tour which include trying out local food and swimming at the beach:
Free Coffee Tasting and Free Macadamia Nuts Tasting @ Macadamia Nut Farm
Experience one of the Best Coffee in the World
A Tropical Farm with good coffee and flavored selection of Macadamia Nuts. I got Kono Coffee Glazed Macadamia Nuts for 10 USD.
Check out Shrimp Trucks
Lunch was enjoyed at the North Shore featuring their Shrimp Trucks in the area. We ordered the Coconut Shrimp and Lemon and buttered Shrimp.
Buy some Fresh Fruits
Afterwards, we dropped by a local fruit stand that offers local fresh fruits and vegetables. I bought some Mango slices for 4 USD and "Turon" ( a sweet Filipino banana dessert rolled in spring roll wrapper) for 1 USD.
Go for a swim at Turtle Bay
Just across the street from the fruit stands we went swimming at Turtle Bay. Snorkeling gears were provided. Hubby and I and my little one who is already swimming inside my tummy tried to check the waters but it was too murky and the waves were not helpful at all, so instead, we just dipped in the waters for a few minutes then allowed enough time to dry and changed before heading back to the bus.
Try the Famous Pineapple Ice Cream
This is Oahu’s famous historical pineapple farm, which reminds me that we also have a Dole Plantation back in the Philippines. Hubby loved the pineapple ice cream, the lady gave us the wrong order instead she gave us the premium ice cream but with a big smile she gave it to me with no extra charge. My favorite is this chili hotdog with pineapple bits on its toppings, we paid less than 20 USD for both snacks.
Souvenir Shopping
The last stop of the tour is the Coffee Farm. This is Oahu’s first Coffee Visitor Farm where they roast coffees daily on-site, offer free coffee tasting, and sell awesome coffee t-shirts for souvenirs.
FOURTH DAY
March 29 Check-in Hilton and Turtle Snorkeling
- Check-in: Hilton Garden Inn Waikiki Beach
- Address: 2330 Kuhio Avenue, Waikiki, Honolulu, HI 96815, United States
- March 29 - April 1, 4 days 3 nights
- 530 USD
Our room has a city view, a flat-screen TV, a refrigerator, a microwave, a water heater kettle, and a Keurig coffee machine. Parking fees apply and a security deposit upon check-in.
The hotel is just 2 minutes walk from Ohia Waikiki Studio. It's more expensive but you can never beat the comfort and ambiance. There was a building construction nearby and we barely heard a thing, plus the bed smelled fresher and the bathroom was immaculate. We wanted to pamper ourselves more for the fourth night, so we decided to go to the Hilton Garden Inn.
Turtle Snorkeling Adventure with Pink Sails Waikiki
- March 29, 2 pm - 4 pm
- 2-hour Snorkeling adventure at the Infamous Turtle Canyon with equipment, food, and beverage.
- Price: 50 USD per person
- We purchased our Turtle Snorkeling with GROUPON.
- Bring: Towel, sunscreen, slippers, change clothes, camera, and windbreaker jacket
This day is a very special day for me as we're going for our Turtle Snorkeling activity. I've swum in waters in different countries but still, I've never seen a turtle underwater. But this day is different as my wish finally came true!
The turtles were cool like a refreshing drink on a hot summer day. They never mind our presence and simply swam gracefully underwater. It came out for a breath of air a few times and everyone's smile was from ear to ear.
Swim at Hilton Lagoon and Kahanamoku Beach
After the turtle snorkeling check out the nearby beaches and attractions:
- Hilton Lagoon and Kahanamoku Beach (1 minute away from the Harbor)
- Address: Duke Kahanamoku Lagoon Boardwalk, Honolulu, HI 96815
Try the Cookies and Cream Gelato, and Mahalo Crepe ( cheese, spinach, and bechamel sauce): 17 USD
Spot a Hidden Gem
We walked a lot for this trip and this is how we find hidden gems in the city. A small cafe at Waikiki Beach Walk that offers one of the best crepes we've ever tried, what makes this crepe interesting is that it's filled with spinach and bechamel sauce - it's like having pasta in dessert style!
Cafe Glace at Waikiki Beach Walk (4 minutes by car or 17 minutes walk from Hilton Lagoon)
Address: Lewers Street, 227 Lewers St #115, Honolulu, HI 96815
FIFTH DAY
March 30, Couples Hawaiian Massage, Souvenir Shopping and Lu'au Dinner with Ka Moana Lu'au
Go for a Hawaiian Massage
- Lava Massage and Day Spa, 4 minutes by car or 23 minutes walk from Hilton Garden Inn
- Address: 1750 Kalakaua Ave # 2502, Honolulu, HI 96826
- Price: 130 USD for two-person
More Souvenir Shopping at ABC Stores
- Board shorts 25 USD
- Turtle and Flower Silver Earrings 25 USD
- Chocolates 12 packs 40 USD
- Macadamia Nuts 8 packs 30 USD
- Fridge magnet 4 pieces 20 USD
- Wooden Tiki Decor 9 USD
- Hula Girl 1 piece 7 USD
- Turtle Stickers 4 pieces: 20 USD
Experience Splash Lu'au
- March 30, 5 pm
- Package for Two People with Ka Moana Lu'au
- Address: 41-202 Kalanianaʻole Hwy, Waimanalo, HI 96795
- Price: 216 USD
- Optional: for pick-up additional 18 USD per person
- We purchased our Lu'au Package for two with GROUPON.
- Pick-up at 4:20 pm in Hyatt Regency Waikiki (5 minutes walk from Hilton Garden Inn)
- Address: 2424 Kalakaua Avenue, Honolulu, HI 96815
Splash Lu’au Package includes:
- Deluxe shell lei
- Moana Splash Seating
- 2 drink tickets per person
- Cultural activities
- Buffet dinner (served by the staff)
- Admission to Sea Life Park (Up to 40 USD Value) - Can be used when the park reopens.
My husband was excited about this Lu'au night package for two. Lu'au is a traditional Hawaiian party with lots of food and entertainment like Hawaiian music, fire dance, and stories about Hawaii presented with vibrant costumes and hula dance moves. Due to COVID restrictions, ukulele lessons, and Lei making was not included in the event. Despite that, the lively music still made the night special, and the Aloha spirit is still in the air.
SIXTH DAY
March 31, Chill Day, Ice Cream, Coffee, and Fun at the Beach
Waikiki Beach via Sheraton Waikiki
There are no private beaches in Hawaii, all the beaches are open to the public. We learned this important information during our Island Tour with Jake. So we walked to the other side of Waikiki Beach where it seems less crowded and went through the Sheraton Waikiki to the public beach area. We even thought the Hilton Lagoon was owned by Hilton and only accessible to Hinton guests, but it's open to the public.
Honolulu Coffee Company for 7 USD inside the Sheraton Waikiki
Have some Honolulu Coffee
After dipping in the waters of Waikiki Beach it was time for a coffee break. The Hawaiian Kona coffee is mild, clean, and smooth to the palate. I usually prefer my coffee dark and bitter but this one was an exception, it's a nice break from my usual coffee preference.
Hawaiian Shaved Ice Cream for 9 USD near Royal Hawaiian Center
Must -Try Hawaiian Shaved Ice
The Hawaiian shaved ice was a refreshing treat during a hot day in Hawaii. It was just right the sweetness and the fresh fruit toppings made it tastier.
Last-minute souvenir shopping at the airport. Dashboard Hula Girl 2 pieces for15 USD
SEVENTH DAY
Flight back to Los Angeles
Flight: April 1, American Airlines: Honolulu to Los Angeles
5 hours and 30 minutes
8:00 am - 4:30 pm
Price: 278 USD for two-person
If arriving late in the afternoon at LAX the taxi fare will be expensive. Lyft from the Airport to the Valley is around 70 USD. Another option from the Airport to the Valley or to Van Nuys is via Flyaway Bus then afterwards from the bus station, you can take the Lyft home. Bus fare: 10 USD
Hawaii was definitely an awesome experience, and if we're given another chance to explore this beautiful state we'll be visiting Maui next time. Oahu is still a must-see for first-time travelers, as you get to experience the vibrant city with its iconic beach and delectable fusion of cuisines.
Have fun and be safe ^__^
Do you want more adventure in Oahu?
Check out: Must-try Foods in Oahu, Hawaii
Where am I going next?
My next adventure is Exploring Must-try foods at the Boysenberry Food Festival in California.
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