My Favorite Spots and Unforgettable Moments in Honolulu, Hawaii
- Joleen Raquel
- Sep 27, 2018
- 4 min read
Aloha, loves! 🌸 If you’re planning a trip to Honolulu, Hawaii, let me be your guide! I recently spent some time in this tropical paradise, and trust me, it was everything you’d imagine—sun, sand, and so many Insta-worthy moments. From lounging on Secret Island Beach to sipping on the sweetest Mai Tais, here’s a sneak peek of my adventure and tips to help you plan your own fabulous trip!
1. Secret Island Beach: A Hidden Gem
Let’s start with a place that feels like it’s straight out of a dream—Secret Island Beach. True to its name, this spot is tucked away and feels totally exclusive. After a short boat ride (which was kind of thrilling, let’s be honest), I stepped onto the softest white sand I’ve ever felt in my life. The water was calm and perfect for floating around with zero worries in the world. I even brought along a cute pink floatie, and let me tell you—floating in paradise is pure bliss. Definitely a spot for relaxing and getting those tropical vibes going!
2. Diamond Head Luau: A Cultural Feast
One of the most memorable nights was at the Diamond Head Luau. I wasn’t just there for the delicious food (though I did go back for seconds on that Kalua pork, no shame!). The whole experience was a cultural celebration, with traditional Hawaiian music, hula dancing, and even fire performances! Hawaiian culture is so similar to Chamorro culture so it felt like home. And the sunset? Absolutely breathtaking. You have to experience it in person!
3. Lolani Palace: A Royal Experience
Let’s switch things up with a little history lesson. Visiting Iolani Palace was like stepping back in time. This palace is the only royal residence in the United States, and you can totally feel the regal energy as you walk through. As a girl who loves history (and pretty things), seeing the beautifully preserved interiors, like the Throne Room, was amazing. I couldn’t help but imagine what it would have been like to live here in the late 1800s, attending royal balls and wearing extravagant gowns. 👑 If you’re a history lover or just enjoy beautiful architecture, don’t skip this stop!
4. Dole Pineapple Plantation: Sweet and Juicy Adventures
On to something a bit more tasty! The Dole Pineapple Plantation was a total highlight of my trip (and not just because I’m obsessed with pineapples). The plantation itself is gorgeous, with fields stretching out for miles. I took the Pineapple Express Train Tour (cutest name, right?) and learned so much about how pineapples are grown. But let’s be real—the best part was the fresh pineapple. I never knew it could taste so sweet! Oh, and don’t leave without trying a Dole Whip—it’s like a pineapple-flavored dream come true in a cup. 🍍
5. Waikiki Beach: Sun, Surf, and Shopping
A trip to Honolulu wouldn’t be complete without spending some time at the iconic Waikiki Beach. I had always seen pictures of this place, but nothing compares to lounging on the warm sand with the sound of waves crashing in the background. The water was perfect for a little paddle boarding, and after working up an appetite, I hit up some of the nearby boutiques for a quick shopping spree. Waikiki has such a fun, vibrant energy, with tons of cute shops and delicious places to grab a bite. Plus, there’s something about sipping a fruity drink with the ocean breeze that makes you feel like a movie star!
6. Diamond Head Hike: Views for Days
If you’re looking for a little adventure, I highly recommend the Diamond Head hike. It’s not super long (about 1.6 miles round trip), but it’s a bit steep in places—don’t worry, you can totally handle it! The views at the top are 100% worth the climb. I felt like I was on top of the world, with a panoramic view of Honolulu, the sparkling blue ocean, and even Waikiki Beach in the distance. Pro tip: Go early in the morning before it gets too hot, and bring plenty of water. Trust me, those summit selfies are going to be fire!
7. Mai Tai Catamaran: Sail Away with Style
Now, for one of my absolute favorite moments—sailing on the Mai Tai Catamaran. Picture this: you're on a boat, sipping on the best mai tai ever (I had more than one!), feeling the breeze in your hair, and watching the sun set over the ocean. It was one of those experiences where I had to pinch myself to make sure it was real. The crew was super fun and played some great music, and there’s just something about being out on the open water that makes you feel so free and at peace. It was the perfect way to end my trip, and I still dream about that sunset sail!
Honolulu Is Calling! From the stunning beaches to cultural gems and sweet pineapple treats, Honolulu gave me everything I needed for the perfect getaway. Whether you're hiking up Diamond Head for epic views or just sipping on a mai tai while watching the sunset, this city has something for everyone. If you’re planning your own trip, make sure to hit up these spots—they made my trip unforgettable, and I know they’ll do the same for you.
Mahalo for reading, and happy travels! 🌺✈️
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