JA TRAVEL HAWAII

I first visited Hawaii on a high school senior trip, and I have been fortunate to return several times since then. It is an incredibly interesting place, with new islands being created by fresh hot magma from the Earth's mantle. The oldest island is Kauai, which formed 5.1 million years ago. Niihau, Oahu, Molokai, and Maui were formed in that order, 4.9 million, 3.5 million, 1.5 million, and 1 million years ago, respectively. I was fortunate to be part of my friend's wedding on the North Shore. It was one of the best settings for a wedding I have ever seen. Circle the island and see and do as much as possible! Such a beautiful place!

Hawaiian Food

Hawaiian food is a unique blend of Polynesian, Asian, and American influences. The islands' native Hawaiians have a long history of fishing and farming, and their cuisine reflects this. Traditional Hawaiian dishes often feature fresh seafood, poi (a starchy taro root dish), and kalua pork (slow-roasted pork). In the 19th century, immigrants from China, Japan, Portugal, and other countries brought their own culinary traditions to Hawaii. These influences can be seen in dishes like manapua (steamed pork buns), loco moco (a hamburger patty with rice, eggs, and gravy), and saimin (a noodle soup).

I would recommend the following breakfast, lunch, and dinner, I have tried them all, very good! 

 Breakfast  
Leonard's Bakery
A Hawaiian bakery chain that was founded in 1952 by David Leonard Sr. and his wife, Alice. The bakery is known for its malasadas, which are Portuguese doughnuts without a hole. Malasadas are made with a yeast-raised dough that is deep-fried and then dusted with sugar. They can be eaten plain or filled with a variety of fillings, such as custard, chocolate, or lilikoi (passion fruit).

 Lunch  
Zippys and/or Puka Dog
Zippys Chili & Chicken Mixed Plate is one of Zippy's most popular dishes. It is made with tender, juicy chicken that is smothered in Zippy's signature chili sauce. The chicken is served with two scoops of rice and mac salad. Puka Dog is topped with a variety of Hawaiian-inspired toppings, such as mango relish, pineapple relish, and coconut relish. Puka Dog also offers a variety of sides, such as fresh-squeezed lemonade, Maui chips, and shave ice. 

 Dinner  
Shrimp Truck and Matsumoto Shave Ice
There's nothing quite like eating delicious garlic shrimp from a shrimp truck in Hawaii. The shrimp are always fresh and cooked to perfection, and the garlic butter sauce is simply amazing. After your meal, be sure to stop by Matsumoto Shave Ice for a delicious and refreshing dessert. Matsumoto Shave Ice is a local institution, and they've been serving up delicious shave ice since 1959. 

Fire Dancers 

Fire dancing is a traditional art form in Hawaii that is thought to have originated with the Polynesians. It is a form of dance that involves the use of fire, and it is often performed at luaus and other cultural events. Fire dancers use a variety of props, including fire poi, fire knives, and fire staffs. They perform intricate and acrobatic dances that are both mesmerizing and dangerous.

Fire dancing is a symbol of Hawaiian culture and heritage. It is a way for Hawaiians to express their creativity and passion, and it is a way for them to connect with their ancestors. 

Hike Diamond Head

The Diamond Head hike is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Hawaii, and for good reason. The hike is relatively easy, and the views from the top are simply stunning. However, it’s important to get there early, as the trail can get very crowded, especially during sunrise.

The hike starts at the Diamond Head State Monument, which is located just a short drive from Waikiki. The parking lot fills up quickly, so it’s best to arrive before 8:00 AM if you want to get a spot. 

The trail starts off paved, but it quickly turns into a dirt path. The trail is well-maintained, but it can be a bit steep in places. There are also a few sections of stairs, so be prepared for some elevation gain.

The Honolulu Zoo

I have worked remotely from Hawaii and would go out for my daily walk on Waikiki Beach at the end of the beach is The Honolulu Zoo, a 42-acre zoo in Queen Kapiʻolani Park in Honolulu, Hawaiʻi. It is the only zoo in the United States to be established by grants made by a sovereign monarch. The zoo is home to over 1,230 animals, including mammals, birds, reptiles, and amphibians. The zoo is divided into four main sections: the Tropical Rainforest, the African Savanna, the Asian Tropical Forest, and the Pacific Islands. The zoo also has a variety of educational exhibits and programs that teach visitors about the animals and their habitats. The Honolulu Zoo is a popular tourist destination and is open to the public daily.

Hawaiian Sea Creatures

I was walking along HukiLau Beach on the northeastern shore of Oahu when I saw a man with an octopus on his chest. I was surprised and curious, so I asked him about it. He told me that he was going to eat the octopus. I was kinda shocked. I wanted to ask him if he knew that octopuses are one of the most intelligent sea creatures, but I didn't want to offend his culture or traditions. "Throw it on the Grill!"

Sea turtles are a Hawaiian icon, majestic creatures that have been swimming in the Hawaiian waters for millions of years. You can usually find them on Laniakea Beach, better known as Turtle Beach for the many Hawaiian Green Sea Turtles that call this place home and bask in the sun. We must all do our part to protect them. Sea turtles are protected in Hawaii, and it is illegal to harm or kill them. 

Sea turtles are important to the Hawaiian ecosystem. They help to keep the coral reefs healthy and they are a food source for other marine animals. Sea turtles are also a popular tourist attraction. People from all over the world come to Hawaii to see these amazing creatures. Sea turtles are a symbol of Hawaii's beauty and natural resources.

The Hawaiian Green Sea Turtle (Chelonia mydas) is the most common species of sea turtle found in Hawaii. They are a federally listed endangered species, and it is illegal to harm or kill them. Sea turtles are important to the Hawaiian ecosystem because they help to keep the coral reefs healthy. They eat algae and other plants that can overgrow the coral reefs, which can smother the coral and kill it. Sea turtles are also a food source for other marine animals, such as sharks and dolphins.

Waikiki Aquarium

Right off Waikiki Beach (close to the zoo) is the Waikiki Aquarium. The Waikiki Aquarium is a public aquarium located in Honolulu, Hawaii. It was founded in 1904 and is the second-oldest public aquarium in the United States. The aquarium is home to over 3,500 marine animals, including fish, sharks, rays, sea turtles, and penguins. The aquarium also has a variety of educational exhibits that teach visitors about the marine life of the Pacific Ocean. The Waikiki Aquarium is a popular tourist destination and is open to the public daily.

Hawaiian Sunrise & Sunset

Hawaii Sunrise at Hukilau Beach on Laie, O'ahu

Hawaii Sunset at Ala Moana Beach Park in Waikiki