Hawaii
In 2024 I (Stacii) traveled to Hawaii and truly felt the Aloha spirit. "Aloha," which translates to love, peace, and compassion, is more than just a greeting—it's a way of life. Locals treat everyone with kindness and generosity, making visitors feel like part of the ‘Ohana (family). Whether it’s the laid-back vibe of the island, the welcoming smiles of the people, or the shared connection to the land and ocean, the Aloha spirit brings harmony and the celebration of a collective well-being.
This was my second time visiting Oahu. My first visit was back in 1986, after hearing the Beach Boys blaring on 8 track my entire childhood. It took me 38 years to finally get back and oh the memories .
As I made my way through the Island I couldn’t help but find myself reminiscing about a younger me, back in Hawaii with my Mom, Dad and little sister. What made those memories extra special is that this was my Dad’s place. As the oldest son of a Navy officer, his family was stationed in Hawaii twice. On our trip in 1986, he was able to navigate the Island swimmingly and even share a couple secret spots.We spent 14 days on Oahu that year, during our first big family vacation. He went back a dozen times after that. As I visited so many of the hot spots on the Island on my trip in 2024, I thought of my Dad often, and the amazing memories. For me, when I think back on his life I think of Hawaii, visiting the International District, Dad teaching me to surf, the 2 broken down rental cars (eventually leading to renting a brand new Suzuki Samari), running into his classmate as we jumped on the bus to head to Germaine’s Luau, Kings Hawaiian bread and pineapple for breakfast on the days we didn’t go to Perry’s Smorgasbord, and the visit to the Dole Plantation, I can’t help but smile. Even though I only shared it with him once, it was his place.
During my visit in 2024 I was able to visit some of the same spots from my childhood and some new ones (or at least places I didn’t remember). We had dinner at Monkeypod Kitchen which has great food and an even better view, ate Malasadas (Portugese donuts with no holes) at famous Leonard’s Bakery, shopped the International District and visited the Dole Plantation and more. I highly recommend the Dole Whip and buying the pineapple body lotion! Yum!!! We spend 10 amazing days sightseeing, relaxing and taking in the Island vibes. It’s truly something everyone should experience. -Stacii
Aloha
Aloha! My (Teresa’s) first trip to Hawaii was everything I hoped for — and more. I completely fell in love with Oahu: the island’s beauty, the kindness of the people, and the laid-back pace of life that just invites you to slow down and soak it all in.
Ten days was the perfect amount of time to experience the best of both worlds — checking off the must-see spots while still having plenty of time to relax. We stayed right on Waikiki Beach at the Hale Koa military hotel and packed in some unforgettable adventures, like hiking Diamond Head, visiting Pearl Harbor, and exploring (and eating our way through) the North Shore. We also made time for a classic luau, toured the Dole Plantation, and stopped by Ko Olina lagoons.
And let’s talk food, YES PLEASE!! I loved visiting the North Shore it’s definitely beautiful and the waves are amazing, but honestly it was the food for me. A few of my favs - Giovanni’s Shrimp Truck, North Shore Crepes Cafe, Eggs’ N Things, and the Beach House at the Moana (the best coconut macadamia pancakes). We also saved quite a bit by shopping at Foodland, a local grocery store, where we grabbed some snacks, fresh fruit, and hit the Poke bar.
But the highlight for me…if I have to pick just one, was the Kualoa Ranch tours and the ATV excursion.
If Oahu isn’t on your travel list yet, it absolutely should be. -Teresa
