Aloha Hawaii: 8 nights in Waikiki
March 2016
by Sally O’Brien

I’ve just come back from a fabulous 8 nights in Waikiki.. We’d tossed up whether to visit any of the other islands on this trip, but in the end we all decided to stay the whole time in Waikiki.  I’d initially thought this might be a little too long, but it ended up perfect for us – in fact I could even have stayed longer!

We stayed in the Presidential Suite at the Hyatt Regency Waikiki. The views were incredible and we had a choice of 6 different balconies (or Lanai) to choose from – almost a new one for every day of our stay! The beach is just a quick stroll across the road and the hotel provides really comfortable beach chairs for guests to take with them. Waikiki Beach would have been so beautiful before development hit – there are high rise hotels lined along the beach now but despite this, there is “something” about the beach.. The water is crystal clear, you may be lucky to swim with a local turtle and the waves are really gentle, so for anyone wanting to give surfing a go, it really is one of the best spots anywhere.. After your swim, you can walk 100m and head to some of the best shopping along Kalakaua Avenue. For anyone on a shopping mission Ala Moana Shopping Mall and the Waikele Premium Outlets are a must..

A highlight for me was lunch at Orchids in the classic Halekulani Hotel, where the outlook towards Diamond Head and over the water plus the warm service and amazing food make for a very memorable experience. There are so many fabulous restaurants to try – another we loved was Roys in the Waikiki Beach Walk. And when you feel you have overindulged there is some scenic walking to do – either along the path by the beach towards Diamond Head or if you’re more energetic, a walk to the top of Diamond Head gives spectacular views from the top!

While you are in Waikiki don’t forget a visit to Pearl Harbour. Just make sure you have a reservation before you get there as it’s one of the most visited sites on the island. It’s a very moving experience and incredible to see that the USS Arizona is still leaking oil after having being sunk in 1941!