E komo mai i Hawaii! I had the pleasure of exploring both Oahu and Kauai over the course of 2 weeks and will share all the must dos! We first start with Oahu, a classic island to visit.
We stayed at Disney's Aulani Resort and Spa located in Ko Olina. Of course we all know that my family and I are big Disney fans but this hotel is simply a dream destination. From the location, to the pool (there is an insanely cool lazy river), to the activities they offer you can simply never get bored.
As part of the activities, we decided to participate in the Macarons and Mimosas workshop which needs to be book in advance at an extra cost and it was so fun!
BREAKFAST, LUNCH AND COFFEE SHOPS
One of my favorite breakfast spots we went to during our trip! Everything on the menu is good so you can not go wrong but definitely try the mac nut latte for a sweet and tropical morning coffee!
Fell in love with this area as soon as we got there! Located in SALT At Our Kaka'ako which is a city block driven by passionate chefs, artists and entrepreneurs. From the hottest eateries to one-of-a-kind events, SALT is a local gathering place to eat, shop and have fun! Arvo is one of the many must stops for breakfast or lunch as well as a bomb coffee!
When we say Hawaii, lilikoi has to come to mind! These lilikoi pancakes are too die for and taste as if you were bitting into a lilikoi! We also got their Stuffed Hash Browns which is kind of like an egg-less omelette, definitely a must as well.
Or as I like to call it the fruit shack! They serve the best fruit bowls and acai bowls as well as fresh pineapple! It is also a cute photo spot on the north shore at their sunset beach location.
Located near Sunset Beach, it is definitely a classic stop for us on this side of the island. I decided to try their garlic shrimp, a staple in Hawaii and honestly I was surprised by how good it was even though it is not a spot known specifically for this dish, plus NO BEES (for those who know, know haha). But the stars of the show are definitely the pies (my fav being the chocolate haupia cream pie) and... the pineapple mac nuc cheesecake!!
The Starbucks of Hawaii! With many locations on different islands in Hawaii it is a classic spot we go to for coffee! Once again, the mac nuc latte will become your best friend!
One of the most popular coffee shops on the island, you can't go here on a morning where you are in a hurry! From pastries to coffee it is a perfect breakfast spot!
My favorite shave ice on the island! Using all-natural syrups, I like it a lot better than all the more mainstream shave ice spots. Also definitely add vanilla ice cream and mochi pieces... it is sooooo good!
Located in the Four Seasons Ko'olina, it is a cute coffee bar with a great beach view.
DINNER AND DRINKS
Located right beside the Aulani Resort, it has a beautiful view on the ocean. From pupus to cocktails it is the perfect spot for Happy Hour! The if you can, can cocktail is a must and it comes in a spam can!
Located right across the Aulani and Four Seasons resort, it is a very popular restaurant in the area. From their mai tai to the kalua pork & pineapple flatbread to the mac nut crusted fresh fish you can't go wrong with anything on the menu.
Located in Halekulani, it is one of the most iconic restaurants in Waikiki. Enjoy a drink in memorable sunsets under our 130+ year old Kiawe Tree with views of the Pacific Ocean and Diamond Head. It is known for its sunset cocktails and live Hawaiian music and for its coconut cake!
With live Hawaiian music playing every night, this is the perfect spot to enjoy a tropical drink in a pineapple!
The perfect spot for a romantic dinner. Enjoy a glass of fine wine while savoring the Capri-by-way-of-Oahu menu, featuring local seafood, top-quality meats and homemade pastas.
It is a fun way to experience an exhilarating and enchanting journey through Hawaiian history. General seating is definitely perfect for the occasion and makes just as great of an experience as preferred seating for a lower cost. With traditional food and a great show it is great for the whole family.
You cannot go to Hawaii and not go visit the dole plantation! Pineapple is such a staple and there is plenty of fun activities to do there.
The best snorkeling spot on the island! Reservations are required and the earlier you are there the better for parking. Formed within a volcanic cone, today Hanauma Bay offers a pristine marine ecosystem after the City and County of Honolulu laid out a plan in 1990 to restore the bay.
This is 100% my favorite hike in Hawaii. With juste about 40 mins of hiking to get to the top you can enjoy a stunning 360 degree view of the island. You can decide to do the full hike which is around 5-6 hours or simply go to the top and back! Despite the fact that it is not the easiest hike it is worth every step! We decided to go super early and were alone the whole time which was ideal!
With great food, beaches, shops and more you can definitely enjoy a full day here!
Such a perfect spot to enjoy the sunset.
Bon Appetit & Safe Travels!
By
July 24, 2023
A Foodie since forever, follow me on my journey to find the best restaurants & coffee shops around the world and in my hometown Montreal.
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