This spring, I traveled to Hawaii with my son for a very special occasion ~ his 30th birthday! Our trip included stays in both Oahu and Hana, offering us two distinctly different yet equally unforgettable experiences. In Oahu, we were surrounded by vibrant city life, bustling beaches, and endless activities, from shopping in Honolulu to exploring iconic landmarks. In contrast, Hana provided a peaceful escape into nature – remote, lush, and serene, where time seemed to slow down and every waterfall, winding road, and quiet moment felt sacred. Together, these two destinations gave us a perfect balance of excitement and tranquility.
Enchanting Oahu
We stayed at two incredible Marriott properties on the island of Oahu: the first, The Royal Hawaiian in Waikiki, with its timeless charm and unbeatable location. The Royal Hawaiian, affectionately known as the “Pink Palace of the Pacific,” is a historic luxury resort that has graced the shores of Waikiki since 1927. This iconic hotel, with its distinctive Spanish-Moorish architecture and signature pink stucco façade, stands as a testament to the elegance and charm of old Hawaii.
Our second stay was at the Ritz-Carlton at Turtle Bay, where every view felt like we where in a postcard. The luxurious oceanfront resort is nestled along five miles of the pristine North Shore coastline in Kahuku. Spanning 1,300 acres, the resort offers a blend of natural beauty and refined elegance, making it a premier destination for those seeking both adventure and relaxation.
If you’re thinking about taking a trip, Hawaii is absolutely worth it. With its stunning natural beauty, welcoming “Aloha spirit,” and laid-back atmosphere, it offers the perfect tropical getaway—whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just looking to recharge.
A few of our highlights included:
- Our visit to Pearl Harbor was deeply moving—standing over the sunken Arizona and walking the deck of the USS Missouri brought history to life in such a powerful way.
- A special birthday celebration ~ an 18-Course Omakase dinner at Hihimanu Sushi. Recently ranked “Top 5” in North America for best Omakase Sushi, according to Yelp 2024.
- And spotting whales on a stunning sunset catamaran cruise.
Tranquil Hana
After visiting Oahu we continued on to Maui. Our stay at the Hāna-Maui Resort felt like stepping into a quieter, more authentic side of Hawaii. Tucked away on the island’s east coast, the setting is peaceful and untouched — no crowds, just ocean views and open space.
One of the best parts of our stay at Hāna-Maui Resort? Being close enough for early morning visits to places like Black Sand Beach, Lava Tubes and the Bamboo Forest, before the day-trippers arrive. It’s a completely different experience when it’s just you and the sound of the waves ~ core memory made!
Our Hawaiian adventure added a layer of joy and excitement to my son’s birthday celebration, turning it into a magical experience filled with sunshine, laughter, and beautiful memories we’ll both cherish forever.
Why not mark your family’s milestones with the adventure of a lifetime? Reach out to Deana@KingTravelDesign.com
