Kaka'ako is a neighborhood between Waikiki and Chinatown/downtown Honolulu where Jas and Spence lived for three years after moving to Oahu from San Diego; it's a vibrant area known for its yummy food, delicious beers, and colorful murals (courtesy of Pow! Wow! Hawaii). Check out the Farmer's Market (Saturdays 8am -12pm), the Salt Shopping Center, or create your own brewery tour! Spence's fav local beer: Something on tap at Village Bottle Shop Jas' fav local beer: Red Zeppelin at Aloha Beer Company
Located in the Kaimana Beach-Hotel, this place has a casual beach-centric menu offering Honolulu's best beachside brunch, lunch, dinner and delectable craft cocktails; a beautiful location for happy hour or sunset dining. Great place to go if you want to dress up a little and treat yo self! Reservation recommended. Spence's fav dish: Raw Oysters Jas' fav drink: Queen's Cooler (add Vodka)
In 1946, Helen Chock opened the doors to Helena's Hawaiian Food, a humble eatery in Honolulu, Hawaii. Over the past 64 years Helena's has been serving the local community quality Hawaiian cuisine and remains the simple and unpretentious eatery it was over 6 decades ago. The restaurant is now run by Helen's grandson, Craig Katsuyoshi. Walk-ins only; sign in outside. Spence's fav dish: Pipikaula Jas' fav dish: Squid Luau
Doraki is our favorite Izakaya, otherwise known as a Japanese gastropub. You’ll find traditional Japanese plates along with dishes infused with international flavors and an absolutely amazing happy hour menu. Reservations recommended but walk-ins welcome. There are two locations on Oahu so make sure you're heading to the restaurant closest to you! Spence's fav dish: Tie between Oyster & Blue Fin Toro Shooters Jas' fav dish: Tie between Emperor Roll & Salmon Carpaccio
Diamond Head State Park sits on a volcanic cone known as Lēʻahi, which roughly translates to "the brow of the tuna." There is nothing quite like Diamond Head, with its jaw-dropping picturesque views of Honolulu and the Pacific Ocean. This is a hike for any skill level; if Jas can do it, you can too! Reservations required for non-residents.
The Bernice Pauahi Bishop Museum, better known as the Bishop Museum, is the largest in the State. It is a museum of history and science and officially designated as the Hawaiʻi State Museum of Natural and Cultural History. This museum is one of the best places to immerse yourself in Hawaiin history, culture, and heritage.
"Hana" is the Hawaiian word for "Bay" and "uma" refers to the curves of the indigenous canoes. For many years Hawaiian Royalty used Hanauma bay for fishing and recreation. Hanauma Bay is one of the best spots on Oahu if you want to get acquainted with hundreds of tropical fish and marine life. It offers an overall great experience whether your a beginner or an avid snorkeler and it's for people of all ages. Reservations required.
With over 1.8 million visitors per year Pearl Harbor is one of the most visited place in all the Hawaiian Islands, and for good reason. People go to pay their respects to fallen heroes, and to learn more about what happened that fateful morning of December 7th, 1941. Though typically referred to as a single entity, Pearl Harbor is not just one activity or one site. It’s a mix of free and pay-for activities that include museums, ship tours, and historical sites that, together, provide an overview of World War II.
Head to the North Shore and expect to enjoy a unique, amazing, fun, and educational adventure swimming with Manō (the Hawaiian word for sharks) in the gorgeous blue water off Hawaii under the safety and guidance of professional marine animal researchers and experts who will share unique and useful information.
The Makapu‘u Point trail offers beautiful views of O‘ahu’s southeastern coastline, including Koko Head and Koko Crater. From the trail’s destination at Makapu‘u Head, you can see the windward coast and offshore islets, as well as the historic red-roofed Makapu‘u Lighthouse built in 1909, which makes a stunning picture against the deep blue sea below.