Make a reservation! The best fancy date night spot, try and go at sunset since it's ocean view.
Asian fusion, we like the short ribs!
Live local music.
The BEST poke! Take out only. Their fried chicken + fish patties are also really good.
One of our favorite Filipino food spots. Featured on Guy Fieri's Diner's, Drive-ins, and Dives!
Mom and pop spot that is iconic to locals. Get the oxtail soup. You need the oxtail soup.
Saimin- a nostalgic noodle soup that is a blend of Chinese, Japanese, and other asian influences. A traditional Hawaii comfort dish!
One of our favorite Pau Hana spots, located right on Pearl Harbor, making it perfect for anyone who wants a view of the historic location while enjoying drinks + food. Ali likes the poke nachos. There are multiple 604 locations but this is the one on Pearl Harbor. We also like the 604 Clubhouse location in Leilehua which is located on Leilehua golf course.
Some more of the island's BEST poke! There are multiple Tamura's Markets but this location is the one we usually go to since it's right down the road from our house. If you go, swing by and bring us some too!
Prime rib loco moco- go early for it or it'll be sold out! There are multiple locations but the Wahiawa one is right by our house in case you want to say hi to us after your good meal!
Local + woman owned, everything is delicious. Lock your car doors in that neighborhood though LOL.
Good food with a nice view of the harbor and poke/fish market next door.
Best dim sum on island located in Chinatown Cultural Plaza. Keep an eye out for the weirdo homeless in the area though!
Hawaiian- Jonathan's favorite type of food!
Located in Waikiki's International Market place.
Pork chops + fried rice. Enough said! There are multiple locations to choose from.
Family owned and known for their classic Mediterranean flavors including lamb, babganoush, and baklava. Also, Jonathan said they have some of the best pistachio + chocolate ice cream he's ever had!
Fresh pasta + paella, soooo good! One time we ordered the shishito peppers and Ali ate one that was randomly so spicy she was uncontrollably salivating and couldn't enjoy the rest of her meal though. So maybe beware the peppers haha!
Ali's favorite brunch spot complete with a view of Diamond Head.
An authentic Hawaiian spot with over 100 years of tradition! The last time Ali and Jonathan went, she found a stray puppy and took it home despite Jonathan's despair.
Home-y + local style diner!
A perfect place for if you're planning a drive around the island. Located on the east side, where movies such as Jurassic Park were filmed. Also right by Crouching Lion hike, a short, uphill hike with an amazing view!
For all the lovers of macadamia nut pancakes! Come early- it can get busy!
The market side has great fried chicken + pre made local snacks while the bakery side is known for their "snow puffs".
Located on the famous north shore in the heart of Haleiwa! Also right next to Halewia Alii beach, where the famous Baywatch was filmed.
One of our favorite North Shore restaurants with a cozy feel. Where we celebrated with a dinner after our engagement.
Located on the famous north shore and with a great patio equipped with a perfect beach view!
Booze cruise- go at sunset for the best view!
Locally grown sugarcane made into Hawaiian Rum! Sign up for the distillery tour and end with a rum tasting.
Paddleboard rentals- rent from here and then launch your paddleboard into the Anahulu River. One of our favorite activities- don't forget to pack a cooler (if you can balance on your board with it!).
One of our favorite beaches up north.
A north shore beach with usually a lot of turtles to see! Be sure to keep your distance.
A beautiful beach deep in North Shore past Waimea (famous surf competition spots). If you go to this beach/anywhere in Waimea PLEASE be wary of the waves + current as it can be extremely strong.
Where Ali and Jonathan had their first "date". Jonathan swears it wasn't a date but no one else was there except for the two of us. Will forever be a debate between the two of us. Check the Hunakai tide levels before going- if it's high tide, there won't be much sandy beach!
A cool spot to see!
A medium (or is it easy for people in shape? Ali is not a good gauge of this) difficulty hike with a waterfall at the end. Bring bug spray!
A beach right by Kualoa Ranch, where Jurassic Park, Jumanji, and many more films took place!
A nature preserve with endangered Albatross breeding grounds. Bring sunscreen + H2O!