Hawaii History

23 Friday Sep 2016

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Bishop's Museum, Hawaii history, Iolani Palace, Summer Palace

Today was Hawaii history day. Our first stop (after coffee, of course!) was Iolani Palace. We had to drive around the block a few times to find the entrance to the parking lot we’d spotted, only to find it was 30 minute only parking. Knowing that wouldn’t be near enough time, we found a public parking lot a few blocks away. We were able to get into the 10:30AM tour without a reservation, and had time to watch the video beforehand. I didn’t realize how much of Hawaiian history I had forgotten, or perhaps not been exposed to. Either way, each stop today was a stark reminder.
Iolani Palace is beautiful, and the tour (self-guided audio) does a good job at explaining the history of the monarchy and the history of the palace. We put coverings over our shoes before entering the building, and toured the first and second floors. The basement is a gallery of photos and the kitchen. King Kalakaua built the palace in 1882 and had electric lights, a telephone and indoor plumbing long before it was fashionable. His sister, Queen Liliuokalani was actually imprisoned in a room within the palace.

This was built for King Kalakua’s coronation

The latest in high-end fashion footwear!

Glass imported from England and etched in San Francisco

Hawaii was a very cultured and civilized society prior to the arrival of missionaries and US troops. Queen Liliuokalani and her sisters were guests at Queen Victoria’s jubliee celebration, and Hawaii appealed to Britain for sovereignty prior to annexation by the US. Despite attempts (by outside forces and monarchs) to stifle the Hawaiian heritage and traditions, they continue to this day thanks to the efforts of many.

On our way back to the car we stopped at the Kawaiaha’o Church. We’d passed by the cemetary on the back side on our way to Iolani Palace, but we took the time to look around the church grounds and inside on our way back.

I wasn’t aware of the Vermont connection with Hawaii until today.

I had to take a picture of the pipes for all my organist friends!

D. looked at me askance when I suggested we walk through the cemetery to the car. I avoided the temptation to wander the rows of headstones, however. (I love meandering old cemeteries – you can get such a feel for an area through the history told on old headstones. Another “pasttime” I learned from my parents!)

Our next visit was Queen Emma’s Summer Palace. As we got out of the car we both commented on the cool breeze that blew through the trees – I’d also have chosen to go inland and upward to escape the heat of Honolulu, too! This was the family retreat, and there were many items belonging to Queen Emma on display.

I had a wonderful conversation with two members of the Daughters of Hawaii. This organization runs the Summer Palace. We talked at length about growing up here many years ago, and how at home I have felt these past two weeks. They both said the island was calling me home, and I shouldn’t fight it. No debate as to whether we can or should, or even how…just do it, and if it is meant to be, it will be. (I can just imagine the look on my other half’s face when he greets me at the airport at 7AM on Saturday…Honey, I’m moving back to Oah’u, are you coming with me?!) D. will confirm that I have talked about moving back and feeling the “pull” since our first day. She will also confirm I have hatched many a plan as to how I can make the move work!

From the Summer Palace we ventured to The Bishop’s Museum. It has areas that are interactive, and of course I channeled my inner child and played! If you want an intimate view of Hawaiian history over the centuries, spend a day here. We had limited time, so we did just one building. Incredible facts, figures, photos, relics and more about Hawaii history.

We had hoped to return to Lucky Belly for lunch as we were very close to Chinatown. Alas, the clock was ticking, and we had just about an hour before we had to return the rental car. Last stop for the day, Punchbowl and the US National Cemetery of Hawaii. As with all national cemeteries (at least in my experience), it is a place of reverence, awe and beauty. May those laid to rest in these sacred places know eternal peace, and those who visit and tend to the sites find comfort.

View from the drive into the cemetery

We dropped the car off with 5 minutes to spare, and headed back to our room to start the packing process. We struck out for a final walk on the strip and decided to finally stop at Sky Waikiki, a rooftop bar and restaurant, just below Top of Waikiki, a revolving restaurant. I do recall vague stories of my parents and friends being at Top of Waikiki, so it seemed appropriate that I check it out. We shared a truly delicious appetizer of Big Island Smoked Pork Pizza. I had to sample it before taking a picture to ensure it was photo worthy and worth recommending – a big thumbs up to both!

View from the Sky Bar

This is also apparently where they had the premier party for Hawaii Five-O recently. This was the hallway from the street to the elevator up to the 18th floor.

A quick trip next door for last minute office gifts (we can’t go back completely empty handed to those who covered while we were gone for 2 weeks – they might not let us go again!) and a stop at the poke bar, and we headed back toward the room.

A visit to Hawaii wouldn’t be complete without a shave ice, and we finally indulged!

It has been a wonderful visit. Hawaii, we leave you our aloha, and we take with us hearts full of aloha (and stomachs full of poke and suitcases full of gifts). Mahalo nui loa. Until we meet again!

Posted by andreapw | Filed under beach, Diamond Head, Exploring, Hawaii, Hawaii beaches, Honolulu, Iolani Palace, Kamehameha, Memorials, Oahu, ocean, Pacific Ocean, poke, Polynesian, Punchbowl, Shave Ice, Sheraton Waikiki, Sky Bar, Top of Waikiki, Vacation2016, Waikiki

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Waikiki explorations

21 Wednesday Sep 2016

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Hula, Kuhio Beach, Waikiki

After the long day yesterday, we planned a “down” day today – nothing specifically planned. We woke leisurely (well, leisurely for us, at least) and were downstairs in search of coffee just after 8AM. The line at the coffee shop in the hotel was long and didn’t seem to be moving too quickly, so we headed out to the strip. The next closest also had a good sized line, so we opted for our “secret” spot inside the Waikiki Shopping Center. A small line that was moving quickly, and we soon had coffee and breakfast food in hand. As we’d already ventured outside and onto the strip, we decided to wander down a few streets we’d been meaning to visit.

We wandered around the side streets near the hotel, then made a trip to the UPS Store so D. could ship items home. (Her Christmas shopping is done, I think. I have made a very large dent in mine.) We opted for lunch at Duke’s. We have grown to like that place! This time we ate in the dining room, and had a beautiful view of Diamond Head.

With no other plans for the afternoon, we set off exploring again. One of the stores we passed had license plates lining the stairs and walls up to the store.

We walked further off the strip and found some fun little gift shops, including one that sold sorbets and gelato. Pineapple coconut gelato? Don’t mind if I do!

There are a lot of fun little shops and buildings once you get off the main street in Waikiki.

A trip back to our hotel to drop off purchases and figure out the plan, if any, for the remainder of the day. We rode up to our room in an overcrowded, overheated elevator, which did not help my energy level. Before I knew it, and despite my initial efforts, I was soon taking a short afternoon nap. D. went out to explore further while I caught some Z’s.

We knew the hula show at Kuhio Park was on again tonight, and we both definitely wanted to catch it. A quick text to friends, and we had plans to meet up at the park. On our way we passed the Moana Hotel, as we have several times this week. I had missed this sign until tonight.

We arrived early with our tatami mats and managed to get front row seats for the show. Definitely better than last week’s when we sat on the beach wall!

We were treated to another beautiful sunset before the show started.

Tonight was a trio and one dancer – Joan “Aunty Pudgie”Young and Puamelia. It was a very interactive show with the audience, and very educational, too.

The traditional conch shell blowing at the start of the show.

Joan “Aunty Pudgie” Young

Hula Kahiko – ancient hula performed with chant and traditional instruments.

Hula ‘auana – modern hula danced to popular songs. She is using ‘Ulī ulī, feathered gourd rattles

A fantastic show, and they even sang one of my favorite songs. You can see the video here.

A walk through the farmers’ market at the hotel across the street after the show where we purchased banana lumpias, fruit for tomorrow’s adventure, and a few gifts. We walked to Kings Village where we’d walked earlier in the day, and I finally found my Hawaiian quilt. I had seen one earlier in the week in a different store, and when I went back today it was gone. I saw another possibiity earlier today, but it just wasn’t the Right One. The one in this store was perfect – just the right color, and a very traditional pattern.

Next stop was a Japanese noodle restuarant for dinner, but the line was a bit long, and the restaurant rather tiny. We ended up back at the Hula Grill as there was no wait for a table, and we knew the food was good. Tonight I had the sashimi, and I was lucky enough to get a bite of opah (moonfish) shared with me. SO good! D. and I shared a hula pie for dessert, said farewell to our friends (they depart tomorrow), and headed back to the room to call it a day. A final check of the pedometer says I hit 19,955 steps today. I debated walking in place for those extra 45 steps to make it an even 20,000, but it was close to midnight, and my feet screamed No! That, and I was distracted by hearing geckos on our lanai for the first time tonight.

The photo really doesn’t do it justice. It was 2.5 oz of the freshest ahi, seasoned to perfection.

Tomorrow we are off to Kailua Beach and Waimea Falls. Starting the day with some R&R (because we just need a bit more!) and some exploration in the afternoon. Hard to believe we have only two more days to see, do and eat everything we haven’t yet. Fortunately, that list is rather short.

Posted by andreapw | Filed under Diamond Head, Exploring, Hawaii, Hawaii beaches, Honolulu, Hula, Oahu, sunset, Travel, Vacation2016, Waikiki

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Poke in the Pool…with chopsticks

19 Monday Sep 2016

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Barbers Point, Oahu, poke, surfing

Sunday began warm and sunny, and stayed that way the entire day. We skipped our usual morning coffee because the lines at both nearby places were extra long. Probably not the best decision, but it seemed the best choice at the time. We found the car (we’d been parking on the same level of the parking garage since we arrived, and Friday had to go up further because “our” floor was full) and headed out to Aloha Stadium for the Swap Meet and Aloha Market. Unfortunately I didn’t get any pictures there. I did pick up a few trinkets and a birthday present for my other half. It was mostly all the same stuff from stall to stall, and everyone was willing to give you the “best deal.” We wandered for about 75 minutes and had had enough. The sun was getting quite warm, and there wasn’t anything that screamed “buy me.” (Although I did see a Hawaiian quilt Christmas tree skirt which came very close to coming home with me.)

We were now running ahead of schedule as we weren’t due to meet up with my cousins until noon. We decided a “real” breakfast was a good idea, and we headed into Aiea to Koa Pancake House. D. ordered the short stack of banana pancakes, and I ordered eggs and corned beef hash. I opted for the side of pancakes, figuring it would be one pancake. Nope, three pancakes! There was no way I would be consuming all my breakfast. Service was friendly and quick, and the food tasted quite good. In fact, I did eat just about all of the corned beef hash – it was exceptionally good! Small place, and I’m guessing they probably do a lot of military breakfasts during the week. If you’re ever in Aiea and wanting breakfast, I would say this is definitely worth considering.

We got to Cousins’ house a little ahead of schedule, and they had the truck just about packed and ready to go. I quick changed into my bathing suit, we borrowed a paddle board from the neighbor in addition to the one already loaded, and we set off for White Plains Beach at Barber’s Point. This is the beach where my mom and her sister would bring the kids when the dads were at sea on patrol. We’d rent a cabin on the beach for the weekend, and spend every day in the sand and sea. And we did go a few times when the guys were home from patrol, too. Couldn’t have all the fun without them, now, could we? Most of the cabins are still there.

I had taken some ibuprofen before we left the house, so after we had our little area all set up, it was time to give it a shot. I left my camera with D. so she could get photos of whatever happened. We opted for the bigger board as it was lighter and also wider, so easier to balance and get the initial feel for the water. Cuz held the board while I got on, then I paddled while he pushed far enough out for me to “catch a good one” and see how far I could go. We went over most waves, but one or two went over us, and I managed to stay on. As I got ready to ride my first wave, Cuz says “Once the wave grabs you it will shoot you like a torpedo, so be ready.” Um, wait, what? Torpedo? I didn’t have much choice, though. Cuz has a 100% success ratio going into today in getting all his “students” to stand up on their first day. (No pressure there, either!) Deep breath, I can do this. “Are you ready? Are you paddling?” Yes to both, and I was off. I opted to stay on my belly the first ride.

I found if you are on your belly you can use your feet off the sides as brakes to slow down and even help turn. I managed to stay on, and even had one couple in the water cheering me on. Well if that’s doesn’t give you encouragement to keep going, along with the smile on Cuz’s face, I don’t know what would. Back out for ride two…ready? paddling? Yes to both, and I was off again. This time I managed to get onto my knees before the wave died out, and I took a little swim. I managed to get myself back on the board and paddled back out to Cuz. Round three. Would this be The Time? By now it didn’t feel quite like a torpedo, but more like an amusement park ride. The adrenaline rush in those first few seconds can get rather heady, and I enjoy a good challenge. Are you ready? Are you paddling? Yes to both, and off I went. Steady, up on the knees, steady, balance…and I was standing! I’m not really sure what happened next…whether the wave died out, or if in my excitement I lost my balance. Either way, I was in the water. I had done it! Cuz’s success ratio was still 100%, and I was grinning from ear to ear. At that point it was time for a break, and celebratory beer. My cheering section with the cameras gave me a 10 and a round of applause as I got back.

I rarely post pictures of myself here, but I am so proud of this moment I just have to!

A bit of rest, conversation and sun, and I was ready to head back and try out the “real” surfboard. It would have been a shame to have brought it and not use it, right? Cuz waxed it up and out we went. A whole different feel on this board – much narrower, and a lot more difficult to keep that center of gravity centered. Same drill as before…Ready? Paddling? Two rides on this board and I had to call it a day. I needed to save some strength and energy for the rest of our trip.

Last run on the real board. I did get to my knees at least!

We stopped and bought poke on the way home. The building the store is in used to be the base commisary. Cousins had put a crock pot of chili on earlier in the day, so dinner was waiting at home. Once back at the house we took a dip in the pool to “de-salt” and cool off from the sun. Cuz was super sweet and didn’t even make me get out of the pool for pupus. A small bowl of poke, a set of chopsticks, and I ate while in my floating chair. For those who may not know, poke (pronounced poke-ee) is a raw fish, generally ahi tuna, with fresh chopped onion and seasonings. Depending on the chef, it may or may not have seaweed or other veggies, and each chef has their own seasoning recipe. I am eating my fill here and trying to find the best Oahu has to offer. So far, it’s a tie between last night’s at LuLu’s and today’s. Pupus were rounded out with fresh pineapple, grapes, strawberries and garlic loaded edamame. The chili was delicious, and a perfect meal for an awesome day.

On our drive back we saw a beautiful rainbow. Of course I had to pull over and get a picture! We got back to the hotel in time for sunset off the lanai, and I then had the pleasure of watching the cutest 7-month old guy I know so his folks could have some adult time.

Tomorrow is an extra early day, so Iam calling it a night shortly. We have to be at the airport by 5:45AM for our flight to the Big Island. Hopefully Madame Pele is still putting on a show for us!

Posted by andreapw | Filed under Barbers Point, beach, Hawaii, Hawaii beaches, Honolulu, Oahu, ocean, Pacific Ocean, poke, PuPus, sunset, surfing, Travel, Vacation2016, Waikiki, White Plains Beach

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What Did I Do?

18 Sunday Sep 2016

Today we woke up a bit later, and after the usual coffee stop, we made our way over to the Hawaii Convention Center to check out the venue, visit the open house for new designees, and see what there was to see. We picked up our free gifts from the local chapter (chocolate covered macadamias, yes, please, and thank you!) I learned there is a brand new designation for my new field that was just released last week, so I have more studying to do once I complete the one I am currently working on.

Have to love the “free range” pigeons…searching for crumbs even in the coffee shop!

Just love these tropical flower arrangements!

I KNOW my father had this album! One of the many displays at the Convention Center.

I was so happy to see my former chapter still maintaining Gold Level Circle of Excellence recognition. Congratulations, Sacramento Valley Chapter!
A bite to eat when we got back to the hotel – we both were feeling the need for red meat, so burgers were in order. A quick change, and we were on our way back to the Convention Center for the official conferment of the CPCU designation. I got to meet up with old friends from my days in CA. Such fun catching up and spending time with them. Also got to meet one of D’s former coworkers, and I hope we get to hang out with them a bit more before we leave. John Quinones was the keynote speaker, and it was interesting listening to his stories. Because we’d arrived so early, we were able to get a seat just 4 rows directly behind him.

We opted to walk back to the hotel rather than wait in line for the shuttles. A change of clothes back to the casual, comfy, vacation mode clothes of earlier in the day, and we were off to explore the hoolaulea. We got to see the arrival of the honorary king and queen before meeting up with friends about half way down the stretch of vendor booths, we continued on in the same direction to the end and a bit beyond where we decided dinner and beverages were in order. Along the way we got to watch some hula dancing, listen to music, take in the sights, and probably most importantly, purchase malasadas from Leonard’s bakery.

The Spam mascot, Mr. Musabi. Spam “sushi” is a real thing in Hawaii.

A street view of the Hoolaulea

No one wanted to share, so we all got our own box to go! If you’ve ever had hot, fresh malasada’s, you’ll understand why sharing really isn’t an option.

On the way back to the hotel we were stopped by Hawaii Tourist Board workers who needed photos of them “in action.” Somehow I managed to get in most every photo they took. I am going to have to keep an eye on their website for my photo! In the next block we passed a parade of Spanish singers, dancers and musicians.

A fun filled, sensory filled day. Tomorrow we will be up early to check out another local attraction, followed by surfing lessons with the #1 Cousin!

Posted by andreapw | Filed under CPCU2016, Hawaii, Hawaii Convention Center, Honolulu, Hoolaulea, Hula, malasadas, Oahu, Sheraton Waikiki, Travel, Vacation2016, Waikiki

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Disney, Luau and Ha

17 Saturday Sep 2016

Today was registration pick-up, another reminder we are actually here for a business trip, and not just vacation. D. picked up her packet just after the registration desk opened at 7AM. We then headed out to Ko’Olina and the Aulani, the Disney resort on Oahu. We found the resort easily, and parking can be validated with purchases at the store. Otherwise, it’s a maximum of $37 for the entire day. Waikiki parking is fairly comparable. We wandered the two stores, one more geared toward the kids, the other more for the adults. We then went to explore the grounds and meander the “boardwalk” between the resorts in this part. As we walked outside, we spotted Mickey Mouse posing for photos following the character breakfast.

Lobby entrance at Aulani

OK, I’ll start it…M I C K E Y….

The main pool area is really geared for younger kids, but the “lazy river” tube ride going all around the pool area looked inviting. Unfortunately, the pool area is for guests of the resort only, and day passes cannot be purchased.

The water feature leading to the pool area

Caught a glimpse of Goofy at breakfast

A stroll through the pool area and you are in the lagoon. There are 4 lagoons along this stretch of beach which are open to the public. (All beaches in Hawaii are considered public, and residents/businesses cannot prevent locals from using the beach.) We strolled to the north to the Four Seasons, then further south to the Marriott resorts.

It was feeding time for the fish. You can actually snorkle in the tank with all the colorful fish.

The Disney lagoon. The concrete walkway before it is the “boardwalk” that connects all four resorts

The paved path ends at the Four Seasons, but there is a sand trail down to the beach for public access.

Four Seasons (left) and Aulani (right)

We met up with friends for a quick visit before we had to get ready for tonight’s work event, a luau at the Polynesian Cultural Center. I have to say I have very mixed feelings about tonight’s event. There are almost 2800 employees plus guests here from our company, and about one fourth of us were at dinner tonight. They will be hosting us 2 more times in the coming days. We were split up between different areas for our luau. Our emcee for the evening was horribly prepped beforehand, and he even opened the show by saying it was April 2016. (Our table decided we get to come back in another five months when it’s September in his world!) He ran through his regular “schtick” throughout the evening…asking if anyone was celebrating anything special like a birthday or anniversary. Fifty percent of every table was celebrating a huge accomplishment! He forgot our company name several times, and referred to those 5 or so couples brave enough to stand up when he asked a question then were called up on stage as agents. There may be an agent or two or three here, but we aren’t all agents.

The “hula” show during dinner was below average in my opinion. I’m not an expert, but having just watched one less than a week ago, and having had a few years of hula lessons (way back in the day, yes, but you do retain some knowledge), this felt very made up. I will say we were seated right at the edge of the stage, so we had a very close up view. Perhaps if you were further away from the stage it may have been better? One of the female dancers had a pained smile pasted on her face, like she’d rather have been anywhere else than there. I had to essentially stop watching because I didn’t want my commentary to prevent others from having fun and enjoying it.

Our view of the stage and backdrop for dinner

Conch shell blowing and lighting the torches

Our kalua pig after it had been unburied from its banana leaves

The “king” and “queen” and their messenger

Dinner was a buffet. The menu we were provided in our information packets was much longer and more varied than what we were served. The kalua pig was tasty, the shrimp lacked garlic and seasoning, and the fish at our buffet station was overcooked and bland. None of our group went up for seconds, or dessert. I did overhear good comments about the food, so it may have been our buffet station, but I’m not betting on that.

After dinner we met in the theater for the evening’s recognition and keynote address by one of our company executives, followed by the performance of the current show at the Cultural Center, “Ha.” This was more authentic, certainly, than the earlier performance, and included a haka (Samoa), Tahitian dancers, and fire dancers. It is a schmaltzy storyline, but the music, dancing and drumming were good. I did not take any photos during the show as they had signs posted requesting no photos or video during the performance. Not everyone around us saw the sign, apparently. If you are in Hawaii and decide to pay a visit to the Polynesian Cultural Center, skip the food, skip the shopping, but go for the show.

A long bus ride back to the hotel, then the long line for the elevators, and we are safely back in our room for the night. Tomorrow is our second mandatory event in the mid-afternoon. We have opted to leave the car in the garage and have a lazy day at the hotel or in Waikiki. Tomorrow evening is the Honolulu Hoolaulea, and the street will be closed down. Getting back to Waikiki during the early afternoon today was heavily congested. I canonly imagine what tomorrow will be like.

Posted by andreapw | Filed under Aulani, beach, Disney, Disney Aulani, Fire dancers, Four Seasons, Haka, Hawaii, Hawaii beaches, Honolulu, Hula, Kalua pork, Luau, North Shore, Oahu, ocean, Pacific Ocean, Polynesian, Polynesian Cultural Center, Samoa, Tahitian dance, Vacation2016

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Relaxation

14 Wednesday Sep 2016

As yesterday was a full day, and tomorrow’s adventure requires a 5:45AM departure from the hotel, we opted to have a relaxation day today. We returned one rental car, picked up another, walked a bit of the Waikiki strip, ate lunch at Duke’s, then sat on the beach and poolside for a few hours. We’re going to explore the other end of the strip tonight, grab a bite to eat, and call it an early night. Yes, it truly was relaxing even if it doesn’t sound like it!

International Marketplace is very different than it was 43 years ago, even than 3 years ago. What used to be stalls selling inexpensive souvenirs and chatzky, is now an upscale shopping mall anchored by Saks Fifth Avenue. Trendy chain restuarants are on the third floor. The only thing that remains of the original International Marketplace is the banyon tree. They have incorporated the history and stories of the original Marketplace throughout, and you even have the opportunity to share your own memory.

There were seating areas throughout the shopping center…great idea to give those who don’t like shopping a place to relax!

And, of course, Dad had to “make an appearance” today…as I took the first photo of the banyan tree the song “Hawaiian Superman” started to play. It wasn’t Iz’s version, fortunately, I might have had to sit in one of the rocking chairs to compose myself. (My father passed away in 2008. Hawaiian Superman was the song playing as he took his last breath. So the song can still transport me back to that day in an instant.)

We had walked down an alley on Saturday night lined with surfboard lockers. I wanted to find it again for a picture…fortunately it was right across the street from the Marketplace! The different sizes, shapes and colors of the surfboards, lined up next to each other, making a wonderful collage.

It was then back to the room to change into our bathing suits, grab some lunch, and claim our spots in the sand and in the ocean. We’ve been in Hawaii for 3 days, and we’d yet to spend any significant time on the beach. We opted for lunch at Duke’s. Fish tacos and Korean steak street tacos. Both delicious! We will be back to try the Hula pie – the beach was calling and the rain had stopped!

The honu statue at the entrance to the hotel lobby

View from Duke’s

I was too busy swimming and napping to take pictures while we were on the beach. While we were eating lunch I kept hearing a noise that sounded like thunder. Turns out it was the waves hitting the sea wall just in front of our hotel as the tide came in. It was fun being in the water and watching the wave crash and roll along the wall. I will bring the waterproof case next beach visit and see if I can’t capture it. I did take some photos of Diamond Head from the pool area. After all, a trip to Hawaii isn’t complete without photos of Diamond Head, is it?

We took a walk down the other end of the Waikiki strip to the Hawaii Convention Center and around the area a bit. We got to see some crew practice by what seemed to be a club rather than a local school as the rowers were different ages, stages and genders.

The backside of the Convention Center. There are beautiful waterfalls running down the outside which you can’t see in the photo.

We had Vietnamese phô for dinner, and are now back ready to say good night. Tomorrow we off extra early to explore the island of Kuai for the day.

Posted by andreapw | Filed under beach, Diamond Head, Hawaii, Hawaii beaches, Hawaii Convention Center, Honolulu, Honu, Honu statue, Oahu, ocean, Pacific Ocean, Sea turtle statue, sea turtles, Sheraton Waikiki, Vacation2016

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Hidden Gems and Sea Turtles

13 Tuesday Sep 2016

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Hawaii, Hidden Gems, Oahu, sea turtles

Today was an early start as we had to meet the tour bus at 7:30 for the Hidden Gems Tour of Oahu. We were up in time to see the sunrise, but being on the west side of the island with a mountain range in between, it was a little hard to see. And the cloud cover wasn’t helping much, either. Once the van was full our driver, Mikos (the short version of his name. He is named for 7 generations of grandfathers, so his given name is very long!) pulled over and had us introduce ourselves. Quite an international group in our tour – Australia, New Zealand, Portugal, Brazil, Egypt, Alaska, Slovakia, California, and of course, Arizona and Georgia. It made for very interesting conversation throughout the day, but I have to say the youngest two Californians did not make the best impression. They did provide us with plenty of “entertainment” throughout the day, though. Our driver was very patient and kind…I’m sure he has seen it all! The driver’s wife and 2 year old grandson were also along for the ride.

We drove around the south end of the island, past Hanauma Bay with our first official stop at Blow Hole and Eternity Beach. (So named because scenes in the movie From Here to Eternity were filmed here.) Unfortunately it was low tide, so we weren’t able to see it “blow.”

An ancient altar to a Hawaiian god on the way to Halona Blowhole.

From there we went to Makapu’u and Rabbit Island, Waimanalo Bay, through part of Kailua and on a small portion of the Pali Highway to He’eia Park where we could see Gilligan’s Island.

Gilligan’s Island was filmed on the small island on the left.

When the tide is high, the waves carry fish over the sea wall. Holes in the wall allow the smaller fish to return to the sea when the tide goes out. The medium and large fish are then caught by local fishermen.

A quick stop at the Macadamia Nut Outlet for samples of macadamia nuts and coffee, stretching our legs and picking up some gift items, and we were back underway to Kualoa , Ka’a’awa, Hau’ula, and on into Kahuku for lunch at Funi’s Kahuku Shrimp.

Hala, or pandanus trees.

Mokoli’i Island, otherwise known as Chinaman’s Hat

One of two houses built with coral. It is illegal to use coral as a building product now.

The “back” side of Crouching Lion in Ka’a’awa.

Hukilau Cafe – part of the movie 50 First Dates was filmed here.

Hawaii is seeking alternative forms of energy, including wind energy. We passed 2 areas of windmills today.

After lunch you need dessert, right? And why not a Hawaiian fried banana and fresh fruit? The fried bananas were scrumptious, and the fruit will be dessert after dinner tonight.

Fresh coconuts…juice, anyone?

After filling our bellies, we began the drive south with stops at Sunset Beach, Waimea Bay Beach, and on into Hale’iwa Beach to swim with the Honu – Hawaiian sea turtles.

I purchased a waterproof case for my phone on Sunday just for the turtle swim. With the weather today, the water was just a bit murky. Between the murky water and my mask continually fogging up, I really wasn’t sure what I was taking pictures of…but somehow managed to capture a photo of a turtle!

Murky water today due to cloud cover

I managed to get a photo of a honu underwater!

We were lucky to have a turtle come very close to shore (the waves kept washing it up, and he didn’t seem in much of a hurry to leave), so I was able to get some better pictures. Such an incredible experience!

After all the excitement of seeing the honus, we dried off and boarded the bus. A stop at the Dole Pineapple Factory for those who were still hungry and wanted a pineapple whip (we both passed but wandered around the gift shop), then it was on to the final bit of our journey, down the west coast and back to Waikiki. We dropped one couple off in downtown Honolulu just near the Aloha Tower, once the tallest structure in Honolulu.

Pineapple field

Hawaiian free range rooster

A short walk back to the hotel from our drop off spot, and in time to catch the final moments of tonight’s sunset. Tomorrow is a “down” day with nothing major planned. A welcome break after the long day today.

Posted by andreapw | Filed under beach, Blow Hole, Crouching Lion, Dole, Dole Pineapple, Dole Pineapple Factory, Halona, Halona Blow Hole, Hanauma Bay, Hawaii, Hawaii beaches, Honolulu, Honu, Kahuku, Kahuku shrimp, Kailua, Kualoa Ranch, Maunaloa Bay Beach, North Shore, Oahu, Oahu Hidden Gems Tour, pineapple, Rabbit Island, sea turtles, Travel, Vacation2016, Waimanalo Beach, Waimea Bay

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Memorials, submarines and memories

12 Monday Sep 2016

Tags

Ford Island, Hawaii, Honolul, Navy, Pearl Harbor, Submarines, USS Arizona, USS Utah

We slept in a bit this morning…we were both awake by 6:30AM or so. Considering the time change, that is sleeping in for us! We grabbed a coffee from the lobby, enjoyed the remainder of yesterday’s grandona and had a leisurely morning. And with this view, how could you not?!

First on today’s list was a visit to the USS Arizona Memorial. I was too young to visit it when we lived here, so this was a first for me, too. And to be there on the 15th anniversary of the 2nd surprise attack on the US was very poignant and humbling. We got to the park about an hour or so before our scheduled tour time, so we had a chance to wander through many of the exhibits. So many thoughts and emotions as we read the history, and particularly the names, of those killed.

We watched the short movie prior to boarding the boat that took us out the the Arizona Memorial. I hope the pictures convey what words cannot…

35 of the original survivors have been buried with their shipmates, the most recent on December 7, 2015 at the age of 100. There are 6 remaining survivors of the Arizona today.

When we finished our visit here, we were picked up by my cousin and his wife and given a wonderful tour of Pearl Harbor Navy Base and Ford Island. We had to stop and get cleared to go on base due to the high security given the day. A lot has changed, but there were many spots that were very familiar and held many memories…especially the submarines! The USS Mississippi must have recently returned as she was still wearing her lei and the welcome home banners were still on the fence. I remember standing on the pier watching and waiting for the arrival of my dad after many patrols. We were fortunate to see the USS Utah Memorial, the bullet markings in the concrete from machine gun fire, the original Arizona Memorial, and a view of the more well known Arizona Memorial that most do not get to see.

And a trip to Ford Island wouldn’t be complete without a picture of my parent’s names carved in the banyan tree. There’s no confirmation that it is in fact them, or who carved it, but it dates to roughly our early years in Hawaii…and given the Navy social events of the time, anything is possible! Plus, I just love the thought that my father would have proclaimed his love for my mother by carving their names in a tree for the all to see

A short drive back to our car, and we followed them home for dinner. PuPus of poke, kimchi octopus, edamame and poi followed by a delicious hot sandwich roll. I did try the octopus (yes, Mom, I tried it…still not tops on my list of seafood) and the poi. I cannot believe I used to eat poi as a child without hesitation. I admit I am not as much a fan as an adult. A wonderful evening of good food, great conversation, laughs, and lots of kisses from Lui, their dog.