Single Ma give out the goodies!!!

Oh have a great and WONDERFUL time. And please bring back a souvenir - a picture of one of their pretty sunsets!

There’s lots of places to go out of the Waikiki area (actually, recommend it) and pretty good bus service if you just want to get out of the main tourist area (if you are ok taking the bus to non-touristy parts of Honolulu).

If you think you will get unduly tempted to shop, definitely avoid all the drag right there on Waikiki, wow talk about shopping temptation!!

Have fun SM!

We will be there in September. I can’t wait to read your review of the place!

Have fun!!

- Hit up the North Shore. You have your choices of many great beaches such as Sunset Beach, Banzai Pipeline (the famous surf spot), and Waimea Bay. Waimea is a great mix of locals and tourists and of course, you MUST jump off the rock :D! and if there is one tourist thing you have to do, definitely hit up the Polynesian Cultural Center. There is an admissions cost, but imo, what you get out of it will be worth it, plus the proceeds go to benefit the students that work there (there’s a BYU campus about 5 minutes away). You’ll spend your time learning about the history of the Hawaiian islands as well as other Polynesian cultures.

- Drive around the island. I usually start from the North Shore and end in Waianae (on the west side of the island). It’s a great way to see the island and there’s a lot of little shops along the road. If you see a shrimp truck alongside the road (especially in the Kahuku area) , stop by and grab a plate. They’re a little expensive in my opinion, but I think the food is great, especially if you love sea food like I do lol. There’s also a lot of fruit stands too, so it’s a great way to enjoy local food without breaking your wallet.

- Go for a hike. I like going to Mokuleia. Since it’ll be your first time on Oahu, I suggest going to Diamond Head Crater. I’d rate it as a beginner/moderate hike. If I remember correctly, there’s a staircase that has over 100 steps. But the view is worth it! I believe they only charge for parking. Another great hike for first time visitors is the Makapuu Lighthouse on the south side of the island. Amazing views!

- Eat some shave ice. It’s like a snow cone, but the ice is thinner. A great way to cool off on a hot day. Matsumoto’s in Haleiwa is really popular with the tourist, but the lines are hella long :P. You can usually get it at other places, just look for the shave ice sign on the window.

- For night life, I like Mai Tai’s in the Ala Moana Shopping Center. It’s more of a locals joint, but it’s in Ala Moana, so tourists drop in too. Great drinks, great music, great fun :). For a more lounge setting, I hear Rumfire at the Sheraton Waikiki is good…their speciality is…rum lol.

That’s all that I can think of right now…..I’m sure no matter what you do, you’ll have a great time!!

Those last two words made me laugh. Only someone who has traveled with me would understand. [-SM]

Nothing like a man who can call a bluff and back it up. Enjoy your vacation…and the wine.LOL

Yes, I finally have a reason to taste the santa margherita pinot grigio. I might be a day late and dollar short, but fabulous gifts from fabulous friends always come in handy. *wink* [-SM]

It’s a beautiful place to visit and since you like to shop you will love it!!!!!! They have a street in Wakiki Beach that’s nothing but high-end stores with tester items. So if you find a cool purse in Coach, Burberry, Louie, or Gucci you might be the only one with it when you get back home. Also, if you get a chance go check out the flea market…it’s a great place to get souveniors. And if you like touristie things…the Poloynesian( I know that’s probably spelled work) Cultural Center is great.

Enjoy!!!!!!