Oahu Recommendations for Friends & Family

Oahu Restaurant Recommendations for Friends & Family update 3.2022

Geography/areas:

“Town” could be: Downtown, Honolulu, Waikiki, St. Nuuanu, Kaimuki, Moanalua, Manoa, Chinatown, Aliamanu, Salt Lake, Moanalua, Kailihi, Nuuanu, Pali, Kam Heights, Punchbowl, Pacific Heights, Makiki, Kapahulu, Moiliili, Punahou, Tantalus, University, Louis hts, …
North Shore (Haleiwa, Sunset, Pupukea, Waialua, Laie, Malaikahana, Mokuleia, Waimea) get to Honolulu about 40 mins- no traffic or >1hr. famous Pipeline and Waimea Bay.
Windward side (Kailua, Kaneohe, Ka’aawa, Laie) the more NE is “Country” from Waiahole up to Laie
East Oahu (Hawaii Kai has 20 different neighborhoods: Kahala, Aina Haina, Kaimuki…
Central (Mililani, Wahiawa) includes dozens of little communities and large military
Pearl City area: Pearlridge, Aiea, Halawa…
West Oahu and the Ewa Plain (Ewa, Kapolei, Makakilo, Royal Kunia, Ko Olina)
Leeward side (Makaha, Nanakuli, Waianae)

Tips:

MUST CALL/CONFIRM ahead, recheck if open &times, MAKE RESERVATIONS ahead, many happy hours are gone, Bring your own Bags shopping! Better for earth + some stores charge or do not provide. Text/email me updates, feedback… ever Changing for sure. Aloha J

—–TOWN

Waikiki:

*Waikiki Beach Walk: Hotels and all the retail designers. Beach Walk on Lewers St. btw Kalakawa and Kalia open 10am-10pm [free activities: Ukelele Store free lessons 2^nd floor 10:30am and 4:30pm daily, Mon Hot hula fitness on Lawn 5-6pm, Tues Quilt demo 2^nd floor 10:30am-12:30pm, and Huula show 4:30-6pm, Wed Yoga on Lawn 4:30-6pm, Thur Farmers Market 4-8pm, Sat Hoop dance fitness on lawn 5pm, Sun 2x/mth music 5-6pm] all changing so check! Walk from Banyan condo or park in Royal Hawaiian lot enter on ?St (3 giant lanterns)

*Waikiki Yokocho Gourmet Alley: 4.5/120, 2250 Kalakawa Ave, daily 11am till 12mn, no reservations, casual, free wifi, in Waikiki shopping plaza 16 eateries, ramen bar ’17. 15 concepts inside Yokocho, a subterranean Japanese food hall: tsukemen from Tsujita, musubis from Shichimusubi, tempura @ Kaneko Hanosuke. Secret: every vendor offers a daily $9.95 lunch special.

*Nana’s Green Tea: inside the underground alley, love matcha and hojicha soft serve cone or try the matcha parfait. I have to split the green tea soft serve order – not sure where it is on the Japan level 1 to 7 of green tea potency” but even I had some tachycardia!

*Tommy Bahama Restaurant: 298 Beachwalk 4.5/937 nice rooftop décor w/ “beach seating”, $19 burger, 2-5pm HH @ bar only-had great fish tacos (check if specials: if spend $200 in store, get $50 @ restaurant – good food here.)

*Musubi Café Iyasume: 2427 Kuhio Ave, 4.5/3,0008, large variety, in Aqua Pacific Monarch hotel 4.5/1,000, open 6:30am, people line up very organized, spam musubi uses plain rice. see popular expanded locations (we prefer homemade w/furikake sushi rice) walk from Banyan condo.

*International Market Place: drive along Ala Wai canal + turn L on “Walina” Street! goes right in, park up on 4^th level (validation stamp w/$10 spent gives 1hr free, then $2/hr after (like Royal Hawaiian parking @ the end of the strip) clean, modern BRs, 3 levels. visit the Historic redone Tree House (videos and stories of past), great little Kids water spout area in front of stage is a peaceful rest stop, multiple nice sitting area top floor restaurants. Ground level has “food hall” B Patissarie, KPCoffee, smaller comfortable shopping center. Saks 5^th has 3^rd level sitting area for pickup J. (In-house Alterations w/Iris) (spend $10 so can validate 1 hr free parking). FYI, Locals spend $10 at Mitsuwa Market (Green tea soft serve, mochi donut) or go to B Patisserrie and KPC on Kuhio St side (Pearl enjoys the stop here)

Eating House: International Market Place, 3$, Kalakawa

Kuhio Ave Food Hall: changed name 2022

*Kona Coffee Puveyors & B patisserie (from SF): shared space, 4.5*/346 10am-11pm 2330 Kalakaua Ave, top 5 cappuccino ever! Jeannie’s favorite desserts, have black sesame Kouign Amon year round. KPC on Sand Island 6am-10pm, school & roastery location-by pound coffee.

Matcha Café Maiko: 2310 Kūhīo Ave., #143, (808) 396-8031, 4/307, 11am-9pm, freshly waffle cones, most intense flavor? uses matcha organically grown in Harima Garden in Kyoto, rare, high-quality tea, iced lattes, frappes, shave ice, Maiko Special ($9.20 L, $7.80 for med parfait pieces of matcha chiffon cake, kanten jelly, water chestnuts, shiratama mochi, sweetened azuki beans and cornflakes, topped with a swirl of creamy matcha soft serve).

*Ocean House Restaurant Outrigger Reef on the Beach, 2169 Kalia Rd, Honolulu, great to walk through, banyan tree plantation style, live music, ambiance great, fine dining.

Sansei Seafood restaurant & Sushi Bar: in Waikiki Beach Marriot Resort 4*/1.5k per Helen, Karen+Geno, Deng’s teacher! 50% off HH is excellent! Sun + Mon only, huge restaurant, get there 4:30PM sign name so know if make it in, wait 1hr great service, get order in before 6pm! tip like full price; half people are locals.

*Tropical Tribe: 1778 Ala Moana; 4.5/207, earliest available! open 7am-6pm 808-366-8226, most pure Brazilian style Acai bowl, also has Hawaiian blended style; location is under corner Coffee shop, Doug & Pearl’s top #1 Acai. If spend $20 =validate park 30mins free in lot behind in side street, or park on side to pick up. Collect points with phone or same credit card.

Royal Hawaiian Center: best validated parking!!

*Waikiki Food Hall: 2301 Kalakaua 3^rd Fl, large BR, away from crowds, clean, central outside seating, family casual lunch food, ?Potama musube -ok, “Tues $5 grass-fed burger-was delicious” get shrimp plate $11, locomoco burger +fries $11, desserts. $2 beer, Like a mini-Shirokiya.

*Kith Treats: 2301 Kalakaua Ave. Honolulu, 10am-9pm, garage park, milk shake, cereal ice cream – pricey good 2021, next to their retail store

Ramen Nakamura: 2141 Kalakaua Ave, oxtail, gyoza, broth, has a line, looks good, Dan tried and approves.

*Island Vintage Coffee: 2301 Kalakaua Ave great ambiance, limited seats, long open hours, a favorite stop when shopping/walking (Aileen’s parents loved it). Go up escalator, busy, something for everyone- great coffee, salads, sandwiches, good acai bowls but we prefer Tropical Tribe. Great shaved ice on street level.

*Beach Kiosk: get shaved ice with pureed fruit sauce and fruit pieces instead of syrup, ’16 (like Uncle Clay’s style)

Tonkatsu Ginza Bairin 4.5/1,705 Outrigger Regency Beach walk 255 Beach Walk 808-926-8082 Katsu, donburi, tonkatsu-don, best for Pork tonkatsu 4.5, Shirley & Ed ‘16

Beach Walk St: across Tonkatsu ’17 discovered collective of food trucks, popular frozen cups of Henry’s? ice cream Ube Mango, etc HIW, near outrigger beach walk hotel, check out this street again!

Duke’s Waikiki: Outrigger Waikiki on the Beach, 2335 Kalakaua Ave, try Hula pie and get beach view! 4/5,252, Hawaiian, seafood; Bfast. I really should go – lots of tourist but has the view.

*Cheesecake Factory: 2301 Kalakawa ave, live music, value, near Apple store; appetizer chopped salad, mango smoothie, share or no room for dessert! A family or group stop, 3.5/2k, 11-11pm, go for the cheesecake.

*Marukami Restaurant: favorite discovered ’12 saw >50 people in line! fast Japan cafeteria style, 2310 Kuhio/near Seaside, well priced, walkable from banyan condo, best tasting fresh Udon (Niku- Pearl) made right in front of you, add Squid Tempura, inari, delicious spam Musubi. Mon-sun 11am-10pm; Bfast open 7-9am! Chain from Japan – but there people stood, slurped and wore suits!

Fish Hook Café: 2045 Kalakawa, Waikiki, 2$ 5/343, small, top rated poke, trendy Hawaiian food, reopened 5/2021 808-942-0999

Royal Lobster: 2230 Kalakawa, fresh generous lobster roll 5/216, 11:30-8pm, Waikiki Shop Plaza LL abc side, garage park $7, 833-278-6589, use Yelp for free drinks.

House without a Key: 2199 Kalia Rd, off Waikiki beach, $$$, sit under tree, music, early sunset dinner on wakiki. Best Bfast in area; located in Haelokilani Hotel, excellent coconut shrimp, cello, band and dancers, love the art. Weddings! 7am-9pm, 808-923-2311.

*Hilton Hawaiian Village: walk or park and walk around, Flamingos, penguins, galleries, beach; nice stay for family want pools, resort; past – every Friday 7:45pm fireworks can be seen all along waikiki and ala moana!

Goofy Breakfast: where park?1831 Ala Moana Blvd Ste 201 upstairs, 808-943-0077, Bfast all day 7am-11pm daily, no reservations: loco moco, benedict, french toast, across from Hilton Hawaiian Village, local style 4/1,537

*Morimoto’s Waikiki: 808-943-5900 fresh and different sushi presentation, 4$, japanese bfast

*Duke Kahanamoku Beach at Kuhio Beach Park has Duke’s Statue, #5 top beach in USA

*Teddy’s Bigger Burger’s multiple locations: Kapiolani, next to Don Quote, university, 134 Kapahulu Ave 96815, Doug, Kim “best burger ‘14, awesome fries, huge thick choc shakes. (2019 switched to Merriman’s burger).

Paia Fish Market Waikiki: 4.5/1222, 2299 Kuhio Ave, from Maui, fish tacos? famous for fresh fish

*Aston Banyan: 201 Ohua St at corner of Kuhio T-1 1701 Front Desk: Cliff (808-922-0555) Yee family condo. (get Cabinet keys from Jerome, Pearl, etc have a set) or w/ Marjorie, manager administrative office 4^th Fl #406 (808-931-3673) past open M-F, now on mobile. Plan parking/car ahead (past parking sticker kept in their safe and left at front desk-will give you a one day pass if they forget). 2021 kept w/Pearl. Banyan “Garage key” opens Lobby level BR (large clean) next to ground floor Café, which has wi-fi, good coffee and Acai bowl) + 6^th floor sauna room. Tower II 5^th Floor – Laundry: you can X-change for fresh wash/bath towels. Sign book “T-1 1701” to check out fresh beach towels- these must be return or charged. Exchanging for clean bath towels will be a real plus at the Banyan! F+F can call Marjorie directly to get other or additional rooms at a discounted rate compared to on-line.

Honolulu:

Katsumidori Sushi: 100 Holomoana St. HNL validated park, 808-946-7603, inside Prince Waikiki Hotel. 4/776 Closest sashimi to Japan and is like the $200 meal for $75/person (Austin flight attend on HA goes to Japan often), open table a reservation way ahead – a month!, lunch and dinner, daily.

Sasabune = expensive sushi, the chef at the bar is strict, eat all they give you and correctly in one bite. Some really like it. 4$ Cheresa’s favorite.

Hihimanu Sushi: 4$ 5/235 Chef Ray, 3040 Waialae Ave 808-744-8491, Omakase 18 pieces Tues-Sun, uni bomb, hamachi truffle, king crab, intimate bar. Chef puts on a show.

Seoul Garden Jung for Korean Yakiniku inside the Waikiki Resort Hotel

*Egg and Things: portugese sausage, eggs (omelet-dry), banana pancake piles of whipped cream, coconut syrup, several locs. 6am-2pm, 5pm-10pm, very long lines, buzzer system, Wailaie coffee $3 cup as wait, change to mug, use downstairs BR. 343 Saratoga Rd, down from Trump tower. Multiple locations, now on Kalakawa near banyan.

*Lewers St: Yard House, Coffee beanery, boutiques! Great street to walk! Lots of Eggs and Things around Trump Tower

Roy’s Waikiki: Hawaiian fusion Restaurant on cornor, 226 Lewers St. Butterfish, choc soufflé 808-923-7697, 4.5/1,621 three-course, prix fixe sunset pau hana menu starts off with furikake-crusted big-eye ‘ahi tataki on Waimānalo greens, followed by flame-grilled petite filet mignon and garlic shrimp Kaua‘i prawns. Dessert is pineapple upside-down cake with vanilla ice cream. $45 per person, with an optional glass of Roy’s cabernet sauvignon or chardonnay for $12.50.

Halekulani Hotel: just beautiful, weddings; near Nobu restaurant

*Heavenly Island Lifestyle: if in the area, a good bfast benedict (skip BBQ sauce on K Pig), Open 6:30am-11pm even breakfast Late! try dinner- good, ok Acai + Salad, purple potatoes-yum, caramelized, Taro English muffin, bar has blended drinks, open organic kitchen. BR in Shoreline Hotel Waikiki. Park and walk. 808-923-1100, super nice staff.

XO Restaurant: 4.5/1.6k Asian fusion, truffle, artistic, cocktail bar 4$ 3434 Waialae

Ilikai Bar and Grill 1777 Ala Moana Blvd., Honolulu, Oahu, HI 96815 (Downtown Honolulu)

The Steak Shack: 2161 Kalia Rd #3 on TA, steak on beach, reasonable, good per Terry, Annie

*Sushi Murayama: 1320 Rycroft St unit 307, pull inside valet flat park cost $5+tip, 808-784-2100, 5-11pm ’16 Benton said “$120/person was better than $500 @ other elite places”, Omakase ’21 was a memorable treat, freshest sashimi top 5%! Fish prices rising 2022 cost $160pp. Saba melted, favorite is seared snapper (black neck) fish, flavored so no soy, seared wagu beef in a seaweed roll, shrimp, fresh, best uni, large portions; small, family run, ask for Chef for ginger (small whole pieces pickled). 3^rd floor destination. Days for best variety = Thur?… past could order ala cart; dessert is extra ($14 gelato? from la gelateria = best). Ryuji M owner and sushi chef. 2 Daughters work.

Fun Station: 2919 Kapiolani, 855-596-6569, 4.5/80 chinese soup flying noodle, spare ribs, brisket, daily 10am-9pm

*Sura Hawaii or 678 Hawaii Korean BBQ: 1726 Kapiolani Ste 101, Korean, lots quality beef! On flame not charcoal, large chain [but poor sides and kimchi]; Raymond, Lorraine love it, tried ‘15 Randy, Linda. ’18 Open late 2AM, HH after 10:30pm

*Ala Moana Shopping Center: 1450 Ala Moana Blvd (Neiman, Nordi, Escada, BCBG, MuiMui, Zara, something for everyone) 3 food courts. Makai Market Food Court was the original we went to when kids were very young, the most options and variety; quality was higher than state-side food courts in 80-early 90’s. Kim and Mom love *Somisomi: 4.5/379, taiyaki soft serve “ah-Boong in Korean” ground floor 1450 Ala Moana Blvd; Ube = smooth, taro cream in cone (delicious but sweet) top w/coconut, black sesame and a macaroon; matcha, 10:30am-9:30pm, 7:30-Sun. Park and get 12,000 steps done here!

*HiBlend Health bar &Café: 661 Keeaumoku St, Free parking in validated lot, 4.5/557 808-721-7303, past favorite Acai (style has too much toppings, needs the honey) quality generous sized, (too?) loaded Acai bowl to share, hawaiian style texture, 2 locations: Wahiawa, Honolulu, salads, sandwiches and coffee, 9am-7:30pm, smoothies, Great tasty large green salads, coffee, juice, variety, near Walmart, Costco; Daily 9am-7:30pm, no wifi (tea next door).

Morning Glass: ranked in top 3 coffee, 4/588 drip coffee 4 barrel and Cava; newest shop in Kakkako

*AGU Ramen: 1200 Ala Moana good, Japanese style (Wanda’s favorite, Mensho SF tops)

Waffle and Berry: 5*/299 waffles, acai bowl, 1960 Kapiolani Blvd, in McCully shopping center, Aussie cute, 8am-8pm daily

Walmart: locals, stock up gift item

Pho Bistro 2: 1694 Kalakaua Ave $ 4.5/657, 10:30-3pm, 4:30pm-9pm, 808-949-2727, best beef broth, oxtail. food is CONSISTENTLY top-notch. Fast and friendly service, tasty papaya salad, really good pork chops and super oxtail soup. BYOB, close to Waikiki but off the tourist track. great place to take visitors for local Asian fare.

*Don Quijote supermarket: locals, not for tourist, 801 Kaheka St open 24/7 on a Food strip; get Pau Pau’s Teriyaki-wasabi macadamian nuts ’16, try matcha mac nuts ’17 per Christina, Stephanie; ’19 Poke bar per Trevor has fresh Poke variety

*Ali’i Coffee: open until 2:30pm, 35 S Beretania St. 808-532-7928, 5/70 reviews, Coff-Tails specialty, cold brew, trendy in downtown, lavender tea; the King, Taro latte

Asato Family Shop: 1306 Pali Hwy, 5/131 Only open Wed and Sun, local flavors Maui style, can preorder online, long lines right now, Sherberts are non-dairy. Co-event @ Garden in SF had 2hr wait! 3.2022

*Yanagi Sushi @ 762 Kapiolani 597-1525 =long-standing family place, large selection; 4/722, Randy and Linda’s favorite. The best sushi on the island per Jeannie Seo and several others! Great Toro and hamachi, get reservations. Happy hour special 10:30 to close at 2am, great butterfish and salmon, oyster shooters.

*Livestock Tavern: 49 N Hotel, 4.5/887 Burgers, American, bar 2$ meet up place

My BBQ: 1001 Bishop St. 808-523-9188, tender Kalbi good banchan per Trase, 3*/46, $ if in Bishop Square building, decline? ‘18

*Yakitori Hachibei: 20N Hotel St Fl1 808-369-0088 3$ 4.5/52 happy hour 5-6pm $5 dishes; loved everything, clean fresh food, japanese BBQ technique! Doug and Pearl’s New favorite 9.21.17! yamaimo fries, ‘ahi poke, fried calamari, chicken liver pâté served on baguette slices and fried chicken wings topped with the restaurant’s special yuzu-citrus dressing or Nagoya-style shoyu and pepper, 20 N. Hotel St., (808) 369-0088

*O’Kim’s: 4.5/462, 2$, 1028 Nuuanu Ave, park St.11am-8pm, Korean fusion in Chinatown/downtown, sit on back deck, HIW trendy

Hang’s French Café &Smoothie: 1146 Fort St Mall, free wifi, 8am-6pm closed sun, sat 8:30am, near University 5* similar

*Lucky Belly: 50 N Hotel St @ cornor 4.5/1,885 $$ Asian fusion, oxtail dumplings, lumpia, pork belly bao, belly and beast ramen bowl, on TA. nice décor,service, clean quality food, good soup broth, large portion appetizers, reasonable prices, open late (Doug “alright to try” prefer AGU ramen)

Iolani Palace: 364 S. King St., 808-522-0822) the only royal palace US, use ID card discount, 8:30-5pm; restoration Hawaiian national identity recognized as the spiritual and physical multicultural epicenter of Hawaii. 1882 by King Kalakaua, Iolani Palace home of Hawaii’s last reigning monarchs. Will tour when a group visits.

Kaimuki / Kapahulu Drive:

Tenkaippin Ramen from Kyoto is as O.G. as Japanese ramens, #1. 2000 on Kapahulu Ave. collagen-laden kotteri chicken broth-gravy-soup. 617 Kapahulu Ave., (808) 732-1211

*Haili’s Hawaiian foods: off Kapahulu before Leonard’s Bakery 933 Kapahulu Ave (M – Th 5:30am – 9pm; F-Sa 5:30am – 10pm, try local food: Soyu Poke, side rice, Squid Luau, Laulau (good, prefer original place)

*Leonard’s Bakery 933 Kapahulu Ave @ Charles (M-Th 5:30am-10pm; F-Sa 11pm) Malasadas: original plain =best, cinnamon, or seasonally filled guava,mango,lilliko,pineapple, mac nut; must eat fresh and hot, within 15” best or <4hrs; always get this at least once!

*Sekiya’s Rstaurant & Okazu-Ya Deli: get food before 12noon, opens @ 8am, can sit for Saimen noodle soup + eat food from Deli for Bfast, Lunch (our local accidental find, Doug’s favorite 1^st & last stop, turn L after Leonard’s) 2746 Kaimuki Ave 808-731-1656 (Tempura Vegetable (1 or 2 if fresh light batter), Butterfish – get Belly (best smooth taste), Fillet (bones), not tail (more meat but drier) -Pearl’s favorite and why I go), Inari Cone sushi (Doug- 1 or 2), Med or L cucumber salad= Namasu (favorite, get 1/2lb, drain, tape hole and top for return flight). Teriyaki chicken and fried garlic chicken; hush puppies, hot dog, bento box (Kim), [Do Not go for dinner! Get food for return flight. Huge parking lot, BR through the restaurant [soy chicken, vege temp, Namasu-med, cone sushi]

*Ono Seafood 747 Kapahulu ave 4.5/2,224 9-6pm, closed Sun, Mon. one picnic table, set back, Doug prefers their shoyu Poke, 2^nd to Tanioka’s, TA #2 in Oahu but we prefer Superb sushi!

*Wailoa Shave Ice – 2135 Wailoa Street, Honolulu (M- Su 7:30 am – 6:30 pm) Shaved Ice= Lillikoi and Lichee; moved across from safeway down 3 blocks, down an alley way, Off Kapahulu, behind the farm.

*Uncle Bo’s Pupu Bar & Grill 559 Kapahulu Ave, go early, takes groups, Kristy favorite, casual, locals, loud, (Doug- tender garlic prime rib share + salad)

*Side Street Inn On Da Strip: 614 Kapahulu, Kaimuki across starbucks, turn L. 2^nd location more upscale, valet park$5 or open lot put $2 ticket=2hrs on dash; Nalo salad! A half cesars feeds 2 people!, pasta, best garlic chicken, reg fried rice (Jas favorite); poke, ahi sashimi, sashimi clam, brownie peanut butter dessert; reservation before 7pm. 808-739-3939, open late!

*YoonCy Korean BBQ: 888 Kapahulu, boxed take out, only few seats outside (use BR in Safeway) opens 10:30am-8:30pm Mon-sat, sun at 8:30pm Kalbi $13.99, 4sides (mac, potato, kimchee, turnip; cucumber x2, choy sum); our #1 favorite since ’15 [YoonCy pass‘17, Br-in-law, husband works Sun]

*KCC Farmers’ Market: 4303 Diamond Head Rd Honolulu Sat 7:30 AM -11:00am the largest, best farmer’s market on Oahu!, small on Tues 4pm-7pm (get carrots, vegetables, local papaya- tree ripened, BBQ burger line), in the parking lot of Kapiolani community college, Pig and lady: Oxtail or Brisket Pho soup is the best we know. Pearl likes beef dip sandwich, Ahi Kale or muchroom chip tapas (Barbara, Jeannie), Abalone BBQ or stewed (Jerome), roasted corn, fried green tomatoes, maui onion rings, pesto grilled pizza, garlic shrimp, large wild prawns $17/cup, go @7:30am to get best flowers, Ginger! 808-260-4440. Go 7am per Jerome! Farmer’s Bureau – Cindy-Adm, Larry-manager AGU. Best flowers 7:30-8:30am or order ahead and will hold. Big Island Anthuriums.

Japanese BBQ Yoshi: 4.5/317, quality beef, waygu sampler, $250/2 people

*YogurStory: 4/2,890 everyone gets Ube pancakes per Diane & Trish Chang (I agree, photo-op & delicious flavor) Mostly younger crowd- but I found the best house coffee-strong w/refills here! (no need to order an espresso drink but will try Ube latte) they use illy beans J. ?red carpet waffle, crab cake or pork belly benedict, prime rib loco moco, French toast less sweet? 743 Keeaumoku St. Ste 105, 808-942-0505, Brunch, Lunch, aways a line, nice service, large clean airy space! [NO to hash browns – the frozen fried patties] Hint! Get on the Yelp wait list when leave your house! Tried ’22 located in Like-Like Drive-In plaza across from Walmart park lot.

*Café Kaila: 2919 Kapiolani, park in Market City shopping ctr 7am-3pm 4*/1000, close to condo, (Pearl’s favorite breakfast spot! Order the “2 egg breakfast”: ham, scramble eggs, switch salad, English muffin; coffee $3.50) Doug – famous waffle w/strawberries

*Scratch Kitchen and Bake shop: 1030 Smith St breakfast brunch, 8am-2pm, open Mon $$shrimp grits, BLT benny tiramisu pancake, near Chinatown; American 4.5/353 hip food (not Doug)

*Liliha Bakery: inside Macy’s, have 3 total locations

*Brug Bakery: 1450 Ala Moana 8-9pm daily, Sun til 7pm; 808-945-2200 small kiosk near Macy’s, Mochi donuts

*Merriman’s: 4/404, Hawaiian food, 11am-9pm, cheeseburger on outstanding house made bun, Lobster pie, 25% off wine @HH daily 2pm-5pm =popular; taro hummus, Maui Onion soup, 1108 Auahi St. #170, 808-215-0022, park @ Ward Center, or TJ Max, comfortable clean expensive Hawaiiana remodel, excellent AC and service, our new spot 2019!

*La Gelateria Factory: warehouse front refrigerator sells left over production orders: $2/cup, $5/pint, $32/tub, M-F 8-5pm, 819 Cedar St. call 1^st check flavors 808-591-1133, get the condensed milk ice cream (top w/corn flake and berries) green tea, the local source! Kona, black sesame, li hing pineapple, lichee, green tea. Mon – Fri only, Fun discovery ?tours

Azure: fancy classy fixed price menu

*Moku Kitchen: 660 Ala Moana Blvd 88-591-6658, 3:30-5:30pm HH $9 all pizza, appetizers half off except seafood

Highway – popular local food like Helena’s (but not as homemade – so we wait for Helena’s)

*MW Restaurant: 5.2021 moved! 2^nd Floor Velocity Honolulu luxury car dealership, $95 for tasting menu, Symphony building where Viaggo used to be. Drive down Ward, entrance on R, 2^nd entrance. If drive up Wardsmake L at first entrance, valet after 6pm, $6, view of Blaisedell center, 808-955-6505, fancier food – quality like SF, pacific fusion, great service, per Carrie ’16 husband-and-wife team Wade Ueoka and Michelle Karr-Ueoka (both formerly of Alan Wong’s), fine dining, unagi-butterfish arancini, mochi-crusted ‘ōpakapaka, and coconut cake. favorite since 2019!

*Morio’s Sushi Bistro: our #1 favorite ‘19, 1150 So. King St #103 6:30-10:30pm 808-596-2288, 4.5/532, Lobster sashimi, fresh Uni, best value for traditional sushi/sashimi, keep calling weeks in advance for a weekend. only 2 seatings 6pm and 8:30pm with 14 seats; Get the omakase $80pp or ala cart, Valet only Park in building -they give a sticker so only 2 dollars, plus tip valet total $4-5.

*Liliha Bakery: Nimitz Hwy, take a # bakery (famous coco puffs are sweet for me), ’19 get Poi Taro donuts! moist next day! @ old Sam Choy’s site (bfast=only ok). Doug likes the cookies, lady fingers.

Hy’s Steak House: one of the best steaks on the island per Sarah B.

Roy’s Waikiki: Hawaiian fusion Restaurant on cornor, 226 Lewers St. Butterfish, choc soufflé 808-923-7697, 4.5/1,621 three-course, prix fixe sunset pau hana menu: furikake-crusted big-eye ‘ahi tataki on Waimānalo greens, flame-grilled petite filet mignon and garlic shrimp Kaua‘i prawns. Dessert is pineapple upside-down cake with vanilla ice cream.

Halekulani Hotel: just beautiful, Weddings, near Nobu restaurant

*Mitch’s Fish Market: 4$, (Trase’s #1 sushi spot, 4$ $56 for Toro, $55 live abalone, van van, live lobster) open til 8pm, near Airport! 524 Ohohia St, 808-837-7774, casual, Warehouse in industrial area, straight great fish, get sashimi, chirashi, black snapper seared $27 nigiri, uni. BYOB, call reservations.

*Imanas Tei Restaurant: 2626 S King St, Izakaya, very fresh sushi, best Nebi* hot pot, 5pm-11:30, 808-941-2626, 4.5/476, recommended by locals and Trase. Tried w/Ray Lulu ‘18 now a favorite dinner!

Honolulu sushi: 745 Keeaumoku, HH 3-5pm $2 hand rolls, 4.5/113, stamp card, clean HIW

Kaka’ako district/ Ward Village:

*South Shore Market: 1170 Auahi St, on the Diamond Head end of Ward Village, Urban Shopping Center; study, shop, eat, wifi! Big Bad Wolf, Big Island Delights, Cameron Hawaii, Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf, Eden in Love, Fishcake, Flotsam & Co., Holoholo Café & Market, Kealopiko, Manaola Hawai’i, MORI by Art + Flea, Salvage Public.

*Nalu – 2^nd location in South Shore Market, like Kailua, salad, acai, healthy meals, rest or quick meet up casual wifi café.

*Piggy Smalls: 4/1k 11-3pm, 5-9:30pm 1200 Ala Moana Blvd in Ward Village 808-777-3588, Chef Andrew Le award winner ’16, Alex, Lawrence, get Pearl’s favorite house made pastrami dip sandwich in Pho sauce dip, Doug gets extra noodles with Pho soup. Weekly soft serve changes flavors.

*Ohana Marketplace: fruit stand -papayas! Support locals, improved in ’21! Acai bowl, ginger, waffle icecream banana, Snow bowls, bento, Live music 11am -1pm

*K-Snowman: 5/41 Korean style fruit smoothies-very pure, shaved ice inside marketplace, mom+pop

*Hawaiian Fresh Roast: 333 Ward Ave, syphon Kona Japanese coffee, quality cold brew or Kona mocha freeze open till 8pm, across booth #200 inside the Ohana Marketplace – sit outside door @ tables, restrooms to L.

*Side Street Inn Original @ 1225 Hoppaka / Pikoi off Kapiolani 808-591-0253 for Locals, opens late daily, valet park in alley, fried chicken side style, (no to pork chops), love the fried rice, get Cesars salad. 10” from Ala Moana mall, serves Lunch 10:30am-2pm
Ward’s Center: sat 9am to 12noon farmers market,

*Brue Bar: Kaka’ako, Wedding Café in Ward Warehouse, 1059 Ala Moana Blvd, ranked top 3 in magazine

Morning Glass: ranked in top 3 coffee, 4/588 drip coffee 4 barrel and Cava; newest shop in Kakkako

*Sorabol = Korean food on Kamuki st. across from WalMart, (read Korean to confirm bill)

*AGU Ramen: 1200 Ala Moana good, Japanese style (Wanda’s favorite, Mensho SF tops)

Kaimuki:

*Shimazu Shaved Ice: 3111 Castle St – outstanding shaved ice, biggest size (a small could feed 2 or 3), flavors, get double coconut cream! skip ice cream, Halo-halo; park lot, next to Rainbow drive-inn. AC, hot dog,Poke stop, Elly’s family go here.

*Earl Sandwich: 1137 11^th ave 4.5/414 – great tasting turkey sandwich per Doug ‘16, side cesars salad $3, get quality, 10am-4pm; one of top 3 sandwich spots on Oahu.

*The Curb Kaimuki: 3538 Waialae Ste 101 6:30am-7:30am 4.5/134 barista coffee, use cold brew for iced coffee; Kim says nicest people working, Justin, owner, 4.5/193, free wifi, 6:30am-3pm daily, 7am SS,

*Tamura’s Liquor Store & Deli: fresh delicious poke to-go picnic, 3496 Waialae Ave, Salmon, snow crab pike; tako kimchee, Wine and Poke market! Several locations including Kaimuki, May recommends, Jeannie – “best poke !!“ 9:30am-9pm; love Tamura’s special style Poke Bowl, winner of Hawaii’s best Poke 7 years in a row ‘16

*Pipeline Bakeshop & Creamery: 3632 Waialae Ave, 7am-9pm, 808-738-8200, park Center St R. turn up in lot 1hr free, love the Cake Bombs- guava-strawberry, good lemon, green tea, coffee ice cream, Malasadas- light, cakier style ’17 Andrew’s tip, try Lilikoi Bars.

Tonkatsu Tamafuji: 449 Kapahulu Ave 2$, 4.5/1.4K, 4-9:30pm, lunch on weekends, fried foods, katsu, clam miso, free parking. Good per Justin + Pauline, long wait when first opened!

*Aki Japanese Restaurant: 1137 11^th Ave 11:30-2pm, 5pm-10pm 2$, open lot parking, 808-462-6267, very fresh and high quality sushi combo (best unagi nigiri I have ever tasted, really set apart – I am ruined now that I know the difference!), Otoro, ginger pork (yum! Pork belly), good grilled (but not marinaded) butterfish, yet to try yakitori, chicken karage, yaki-onigiri, green tea brulee, introduction 2021 w/Lawrence, D+P regular place since 2022 (call day of – got in). Good for bar seat or groups.

Kahala:

*Kahala Mall: Nice in-door smaller mall, Apple store, small boutiques, good CPK, Whole Foods, Pearl’s Korean BBQ: box casual bugogi, Long’s. Consolidated Kahala Theater.

*CPK –super busy!!! Good for families, great BR stop inside!

*Brug Bakery: on the side strip off of Kahala Mall, get mochi donuts flavored after 10AM, great as a dessert gift box. 808-732-2200, 4618 Kilauea Ave, 8am-8pm daily but Sun till 7pm. Several locations on Oahu.

*Zippy’s: locals go for chili, portuguese sausage, sweet bread Bfast, ramen; Napoleon bakery Haupia cake; Russell’s fav long John’s dessert; large space, AC, parking upstairs (half papaya, oatmeal, house salad and mini-meal hash brown has one rice -Doug)

*Kapa Hale: 4614 Kilauea Ave Suite 102, Honolulu 4.5/284, tried 5.2021, Chef worked at Pig Lady, excellent dinner pasta mushroom fusion, (need to change desserts), neighborhood location, has lunch Ramen, make their own noodles/pasta. Repeat this one, bring guests!

*Plumeria Café restaurant @ Kahala Hotel and resort: our #1 favorite B-fast brunch and the best ambiance and view! We visit every time! stay for half the day, great beach, swim and sitting areas in and outside; tour of grounds and secret garden 10-11am; Dolphins quest great for kids; best kept secret Public Beach, wedding gazebo, photos, paddle board, get a beachside table outside: order continental $22 all papaya, parfait, smoked salmon, choc crossaint, juice; order separate latte if desired, Kona is weak now, french press only OK and a cornbeef hash =excellent; The Veranda (tea) upstairs lovely. Daily @ 6:30am.

*Kahala Beach: 4999 Kahala Ave, a coral beach so need Water Shoes if swim, high tide by 1pm so no beach left; go to feel peace, run dogs, has tables; if swimming go to right for a calmer shallower beach.

Diamond Head Beach Park: safely admire the surf from either street level in between the 3 Diamond Head Lookouts or walk down the paved path near the Diamond Head Lighthouse. Not for swimmers- rough waves, hang gliders, Surfers, Long boarders, Windsurfers

Diamond Head:

3848 Diamond Head Road: located @ corner of Kahala Ave, Contact us! Doug + Pearl J “Moon door house, Hutong Courtyard house, across Triangle Park, near Cromwell Beach.

*ARS Café (Art in latin) 4.5*/43) (top 5% coffee per Pearl, pricier) 6am-4pm wood bar,’16 local art place, real baristas Great drip hot coffee black, great iced L. Americano, cold brew is light, same owners of Pioneer, en suite restroom, AC, no wifi so use iphone personal hotspot, small tables, clean.

*Diamond Head Market & Grill: market opens 6:30am-9pm. fresh moist blueberry scones per Wanda and Paul. (loaded cream cheese, ? heat in microwave, past Doug favorite) 3158 Monsarrat Ave. 808-732-0077 No latte type drinks, take out window has Bfast @ 6:30am but BBQ lunch starts 11am. ’16 finally discovered best salad to pick up and take on plane (no tomato or cucumber –seeds) back “Ahi salad or salmon tofu watercress salad with garlic soy dressing, teriyaki salmon belly (Pearl’s favorite) (run out so go early!); ok chicken musubi; try plantation tea, coconut bread pudding. (BR inside Coffee Bean and Tea next door, get stamp card large coffee or Americano, get cup of ice).

*South Shore Grill: 3114 Monsarrat Ave 10:30am-9pm, good burger, seafood, get Fish tacos on Taco Tues! $2.50, next to ARS café.

*Café Morey’s: 3106 Monsarrat Ave, 4/295, large airy space to sit down, our favorite reason to come here is great atmosphere, good meeting space w/Open shutter Windows, see Diamond Head, wifi, 8am- 2pm(last entry). delicious Fried Rice! Very Good Pancakes, Combination plates (change fries to all salad) and egg benedicts are good, coffee is good diner style w/free refills, (Arte Café up street for specialty brew). small lot 4 spaces, so park up street. No reservations, do not be in a rush, slow kitchen, just relax in the space! 3.20.22 update

*Diamond Head Cove Health bar: 3045 Monsarrat ave open 9am- 8pm(order till 7pm) and 11pm(order till 10) Tu Wed Thur; bfast, convenient past favorite, still good, Large “Mana” acai bowl enter Doug’s phone points (depends on person working, quality changed ’16 watery, sloppy cuts, grainy honey on bottom!) but can sub-out all fruits for papaya; great smoothies, busy, St park or small lot

Diamondhead Crater: Hike trail is touristy, but if clear day, nice view of the southern coastline, go 7am early! 560 ft up steep Stairs, lighted tunnel, takes 60 -90 mins up and down, #1 hike on Oahu, rest of hikes all have more risk.

Chinatown: worth a walk through, get Leis!

*Sing Cheong Yuan Bakery 808-531-6688, 1027 Maunakea St in Chinatown. Macadamian nut/sesame candy, mon-sun 7am-4pm, loc in middle block on L. across Lin’s and Cindy’s Lei’s, btw N.Brittania and Maunakea (per palate – get as gifts in past)

Senia: 75 N King St, 4.5/75, 3$ American, charred cabbage, trendy, casual but excellent food, park Marin tower, next the Pho

*Pho 97: very convenient location to visit Chinatown, AC, large fresh Papaya salad (Pearl), good Pho soup(Doug), large space, 3.5/137, (near favorite drink Thang II: no balls Mango, Papaya, half sugar soursop=plain, Doug’s favorite iced coffee and Bakery)

*Lin’s Lei shop: 1017 Maunakea St SuiteA 808-537-4112 tues-sat 7am-8pm, sun, mon holidays 7am-6:30pm, Loretta Le; less busy, double tuberose with flowers -photo well, smell so good, order in Oahu $225 for 5 lei’s, #3 choice.

*Cindy’s Lei and Flower Shop: 877-536-0007, cindysleishoppe.com, buy there or on line and ship, Fed-Ex charges ($50/up to 4 leis, $65 for 8 and $120 for 100 leis in a box) most popular Lei shop, locals #1 spot to order.

*Maunaoa Plaza: discovered arch way entry to “Thang” ice coffee and bubble tea, mango smoothies! Can get without tapioca balls” if adventurous go L down stairs to see an “inner city of fast phillipino, vietnamese plate food for locals; then out a market of fresh seafood and local veges to bring back to grill. Feels (smells) like another country to pass thru.

*open market area: vegetables and fruits, seafood, chinatown store has everything!

*Lam’s Kitchen: 1152 Maunakea St. @ corner, $ park in Marin Tower Lot, or down street, 4.5/373 Ngaw Nam Tong Fun Beef Pho soup w/Haw Fun (808-536-6222, (2021 8am-4pm). Paul and Wanda favorite, on-line best chinese in Oahu. Best Rosina Gon chow ngaw hah; ngaw nam tong fun; foo gwah fanbitter melon rice; chow fun and youtiao (fried savory crullers) at Lam’s in Chinatown. The restaurant makes both items in-house and people drive across the island to get their fix. Pair the crisp (and super-light) jook. The chow fun shines best in the beef-choy sum stir fry, a tendon noodle soup entree. Pearl gets #11”Flank Steak Tendon Look Fun” Ngaw Nam Beef Tong w/Haw Fun. Dry fry also good. Doug gets #27 Chow fun -beef-choy sum stir fry sup chow, great soy milk -homemade! Try black bean beef noodle?

*Maguro Brothers Hawaii-Waikiki: 421 Lewers St, 4.5/48, 5:30pm-9pm, M-Sat, 808-230-3470, seafood market in Kekaulike market, HIW, chirashi, salmon, best Poke quality.

*Maguro Brothers Hawaii: 4.5/500 seafood market deli HIW moved across road 2022 – on Doug’s list, 5:30-9pm, closed Sun, 808-259-7100, 1039 Kekaulike St #113 poke bowl made to order, Hamachi bowl, donburi, inside Kekaulike market, salmon belly! hidden deep inside Chinatown’s Kekaulike Market. At this little spot, it’s all about sashimi platters, donburi (get the king salmon sashimi with uni over rice), and poke by the bowl or pound. quality is excellent and locally sourced for the most part, outstanding knife work- donburi and poke might be served in a styrofoam box, but you won’t find such beautifully cut fish casually sold to-go anywhere else.

*The Pig & the Lady: 83 North King St Vietnamese fusion. Ranked #1 2017 in Oahu, #3TA, we agree top quality per Lalita and Huidy ’16 [edge of Chinatown] 4/1,316 2$, also Piggy Smalls lunch sandwich pastrami! Or booth Sat AM KCC farmer’s market, #1 sandwich on Oahu per Dania and Jana ’16, owner Alex, Get: LFC wings chicken, Octopus, sashimi, pork chop, whole chicken, Pho filet migon, dessert sundae. All excellent flavors! Quality food, casual hip space in Chinatown. Friends with owners, Alex, Lawrence Ho.

Senia: 75 N. King St. 4$ french/American, quality creative, next to Lucky Belly, a la carte modern American small plates, pastas, and large-format platters, like glazed pork belly with beet “char siu,” in main dining room- luxurious $185-per-person tasting menu (think caviar, truffles, and foie gras) at the 12-seat chef’s counter.

*Thang II: open stand inside market on L, best Mango smoothie in area +/- boba only $3.5 in ‘16 and strong Vietnamese iced coffee (also go to 2^nd loc, inside)

O’Kims Korean Kitchen: 1028 Nu’uanu Ave, Chinatown location, locals go, good per Trase, 11AM-8pm, closed Sunday, 808-537-3787, get a reservation! will try in 2021

Kalihi:

*Superb Sushi: 1322 N King St. 7:30am-2:30pm, Mon-Sat, 808-737-0051, fresh made-to-order poke, small lot, 2 tables only table, mostly cater. Poke by pound and bowls [Doug asks for extra white onions], inari-Gunny sacks seasoned rice with ginger! Poke and tako, (best taste and quality Futomaki! salmon w/mayo =too hot for me). Order tuna poke $13.50/order (new ginger onion flavor as well – yet to try. California roll, cater, party trays. Doug and Pearl’s favorite poke stop near airport. Kevin owner, ladies all so nice. Get a stamp card.

*Hana Tea: 1111 Dilligham Blvd, 808-376-8139, L brown sugar milk tea w/cream cake topping or Boba, (Coffee-Tea 50%sweet =Doug) Get Stamp card, ask for cup of ice water + cart carrier)

*Nisshodo Candy Store – 1095 Dillingham Blvd, #808-847-1244 (M – F 7 am – 4pm; Sa 7 am – 3pm) sells arare, fresh Mochi, chichi dango = plain white/red.

*Helena’s Hawaiian Food: 1240 N. School St. in Kahili for Hawaiian food,10am-7:30pm 808-845-8044 Cash only, Tues-Frid only!! 2$, No reservations, wait outside, 4.5/2,584, ranked #1 real local food, reasonable, famous HIW, we go every visit. My favorite Ribs!, delicious squid luau, kalua pork, tripe for Doug, fried butterfish only if group.

Mitsu-Ken Okazu: 2300 N King St, across New City Nissan, 4*/369, 808-848-5573, Bfast till 10:30am, closes 1pm; Sun &Mon closed, eggs & garlic chicken $6.50, bento box HIW Tu-Sat 5am-1pm, cash only; Kristy, Christina recommend. killer bento boxes to go, take to the beach, takeout-only, HIW, garlic chicken. Mini Bento: garlic chicken, rolled egg omelet, and hot dog all served over a base of furikake.

*Thang’s french coffee & bubble tea: 1286 Kalani St, 8:30-6:30pm our favorite mango smoothies $4.5, in City Square Mall, ?better than Chinatown loc, thick!,AC, free parking all over strip mall; lichee coconut, iced coffee, milk tea, taro, papaya, avocado. Owner’s success story from Vietnam. Try new Sand Island shop!

*Ethel’s Grill: 232 Kalihi St. institution! cash only, 4/293 Mon closed, 6am-2pm, drive middle lane straight down Hwy 63, small parking lot, cleanest HIW, favorite Local food $, per Calvin and Trase. great specials, Doug’s Loco moco, Tataki sashimi, (Pearl-salmon Kama, Opah Belly Katsu, “Big salad+ miso soup $6.50. Mochiko chicken, $2 burger for kids! Bfast, best miso soup + salad J, winner, ask for sweet potato yam instead of rice, [NO: coffee, oxtail soup] nts: Bring Minaka TJoes! Bobby-Maple cookies.

*Liliha Bakery: 515 N Kuakini St. 4.5/2,587 off N Nimitz Hwy, check hours! Park in lot, 6am-12mn or 8pm, closed Mon, 808-537-2488, try taro “Poi Mochi donuts” reg and maple, coco puffs- ?too sweet; stick with Bakery, skip Café.

*IL Gelato Gelato Warehouse: 501 Sumner St. 9-4:30pm, 808-536-6971, MWF will sell by scoop, go take tour then taste

*Costco: 525 Alakawa St (towards the airport) 10am-8:30pm, very busy, pick up local gift snacks; cheapest Gas around but long lines; food court has frozen yogurt and Acai, iced cold brew, chili.

*Waiola: 2135 Waiola St –best shaved ice per Kim & Pearl, we all agree ’16, 4.5*/1100, opens 10am-6:30pm order bowl or large cup: lichee/coconut, or green tea add condensed milk and ice cream!

Ahi Assassins Fish: 4.5/158 S perfect Hawaiian poke by the pound. Kaneohe, Owners Josh Schade, Erika Luna, crew catch all the fish that’s served at Ahi Assassins. motto: “Caught here, not brought here; if none- closed! dozen types of poke, entrees featuring cooked/prepared fish, smoked ‘ahi dip, kūlolo= dessert.

*Sushi izakaya Gaku: 1329 S. King St. 808-589-1329 park in back lot; you feel like you are in Japan! Take reservations 5-7pm then after 7pm first come first serve. hamachi tartar, “garlic seared toro” (past Jeanne and Patrick’s favorite). Uni shooter, seared king salmon, squid leg roll. 4.5/672 house-made tofu, udon.‘19? Expensive, Down quality, small slices, no wonder Benton and us – switched to Izakiya UOMA, etc.

Mo’ili’ili

*Waiola: 2135 Waiola St –best shaved ice per Kim & Pearl, softest, fluffy ice of all, started ’16, 4.5*/2,676, daily 11am-6:00pm 808-949-2269 order bowl or large cup: lichee/coconut, or green tea add condensed milk and ice cream! Street park residential area store.

*Izakaya Torae Torae: 1111 McCully St Honolulu 4.5/416 open 6pm until 11:30pm. Closed Tues. Agedashi tofu (or Loved cold tofu w/potato), avocado/seafood Salad, light vege Tempura, Nigiri – options by #pieces, good truffle teri edamame, Hamachi carpaccio, chirashi (if hungry), nice staff, can take groups. (in ’22 Aki was way better! Good but quality of Nigiri fish dropped & more expensive now; HH starts 10pm [past -very Cold AC- bring a long sleeve sweatshirt or long pants] Go early to get parking space in front.

Manoa:

Morning Glass Coffee + Cafe: ranked in top 3 coffee, 4/588 drip coffee 4 barrel and Cava; 2^nd loc in Kakaako; 2955 E. Manoa Rd, 808-673-0065, Sat brunch great in the Valley! Elliot’s favorite place on island.

Off the Hook Poke market: 2908 E Manoa Rd 808-800-6865, 2$ fresh Poke – variety types, cold ginger ahi poke, refer by Server @ Kapa Hele Restaurant. 11am-6pm, across from McDonald’s, long line of #40 in 8/21

B——-NORTH SHORE

Hauula: (see tall trees in Mt) if staying in Kaaawa

*Hawaiian Monk Seal: (randomly spotted on beach 11.29.16 while looking out) “Epo” rest on beach most of day, often with her mom. Night feeders -near reef when octopus and eel come out. endangered species only #35, have dog like claws to pull. before Hauula beach park, volunteers, hot line to call if entangled # 888-256-9840, keep dogs away.

*Tamura’s: great Poke bowl $7.99 to 10.99 – our favorite = Tamura’s special, Hawaiian is spicy; great taste salmon poke and sometimes has Hamachi poke! Supermarket has Koloa rum punch from Kauai – served on HA flight. Sit at end of strip picnic tables, locals practice Hula, good meeting spot.

*Cackle Fresh Egg farm: get fresh eggs here! jumbo 20 for $4.45, local fruit, apple bananas

PCC Polynesian cultural center: half or full day tourist spot, Samoan Hx show (Alamo magazine: rental car and key, contract, one person free preview one hour) 6-7pm daily in Dec live music free. BYU and McDonalds.

Kahuku: (has the best papayas, try sunrise = red ones)

*Fumi’s Shrimp truck: 56-777 Kamehameha hwy 10am-7:30pm, Darlene’s and now Doug’s favorite!, organized, shrimp ponds all around.

*Giovanni Shrimp Truck: good, but ?Haleiwa side truck- better? Or just longer wait?

*Farm Table Café: Kahuku Farms, 56-800 Kamehameha Hwy, smoothies, tables and sitting area behind, 5/448, 2$11am-4pm, try Haupia pineapple smoothie $5, half papaya w/sorbet $4.5, wagon tour, Papayas! smoothies, freshest, delicious food, vege Panini, grilled banana bread, , cleanest port-a-potty. Would be my go-to place if I was not rushing to Kaaawa.

* Kahuku Farms Café and Tours: 56-800 Kamehameha Hwy, farm tour AGU land next to Cafe

Turtle Bay: resort, golf

North Shore, at Turtle Bay Resort, Legends of the North Shore Luau, every Friday night. There’s an exciting dinner show with special entrees for the kids. tropical drinks at the outdoor Surfside Hang Ten bar, late night entertainment and dancing at the Bay Club. live Hawaiian entertainment in the lobby daily from 4:30 p.m.- 6:30 p.m.

Wahiawa:

*Green World Coffee Farm: 71-101 Kamehameha hwy 6am-6:00pm in Wahiawa, small roaster on way to north shore, mocha or cappuccino freeze (was too sweet), needs shot extra, lots of free tea and coffee samples local beans, open space. 4.5/333,

Haleiwa: (old Hawaii town) in North Shore H-1W, H-2, 99 to historic Haleiwa, Marketplace, cute shops, Kua’ina, small town. [great day trip, best beaches in summer; watch giant swells in winter, beaches, tide pools, scenery, surf, Rock Jump Molokea, Pupukea, Kahuku]

Beach with Turtles but no crowds: Haleiwa boat pier across from H Joes restaurant, Kaleo and Sina’s family swim at this beach, less people and always see turtles mostly April to August, Traffic problems at Laniakea beach with tourist crossing.

*Dole Plantation: on way to North shore, pass Green Coffee; cut Pineapple demo, ice, nice Tourist stop, shop, maze,

*Shark’s Cove: tide pools, diving, shallow areas (not in winter), snorkel to see bright fish here like Haunama bay. Locals and families all go here.

*Haliewa town: expanded for blocks of shops on both sides, parking behind.

Farm to Barn Café & Juicery: 9am-3pm, closed Mon, Sun 2pm, 66-320 Kam Hwy, grassy area

Sprout Sandwich Shop: 66-526 Kam Hwy, daily 10:30am-3pm, 4.5/141, can change any sandwich into a salad, Don patrol

*Coffee Gallery in Haleiwa: best Cappuccino Freeze (our absolute favorite! skip starbucks), Mocha Freeze (famous) dessert drink; Pearl’s favorite cold brew french- black, med’16,’17 or hot straight Americano medium, no cream; free internet access! inside seating tables/ room with plugs along wall. Lots inside seating tables/ large room w/plugs along wall (but closed with pandemic, ? reopen soon). (bring your cup discount & greener – not sure still do this.)

*Cheeky Beach: Vivian 2020

*Giovanni’s Shrimp Truck: #1 ranked shrimp truck, see several Food trucks to the R on way to Haleiwa town. Gravel clearing, picnic tables, see writing on the truck; original famous scampi and garlic plate rice. 56-505 Kamehameha Highway, also has trucks in Kahuku?as good? 2021 food truck open and has a line.

Aji Limo – food truck, restaurant coming 2022

*Matsumoto on North Shore=most famous Shaved ice, vanilla ice cream, red bean, condensed milk, green tea flavor, long lines go fast. [Large size, condensed milk top, Lilikoi and guava= Kim, ice cream]

*HE>I [He is greater than I]: Christian T-shirt store, 2^nd store across pier 38 in strip mall on Nimitz

*Kuaina Sandwich = great burgers here, Doug gets tuna fish sandwich, pearl’s favorite grilled veggie for lunch, also can get a small green salad to go (Ward Center closed 2016)

*Tropical Tribe: see Stephanie runs this site, now has multiple locations! Visit this acai spot every time I go to Oahu! get the Brazilian style acai. Park in back -just avoid Mangos dropping hit your car! (Old tree, too fiberous to eat)

*The Beet Box: great Acai bowl – Rio, tasty avocado toast 4*/111; one of Pearl’s favorite spots, acai, healthy foods. Sun 7-4pm, great AC, wifi, near HE>I. 2^nd location in Kailua.

*Haleiwa Joe’s: 66-011 Kamehameha Hwy, 11:30-9:30pm, no reservations, dinner starts 5pm, 808-637-8005 sit down restaurant, both Lunch and Dinner at this site, prime rib @ dinner only, nice outside view, get catch of the day, fresh fish from area! 3^rd Friday each month go at 4:30pm, 6pm packed for Hula and Fire show. Joe+ 3 daughters work here daily!

North Shore Macadamia Nut: 2 locations, 62-330 Kam Hwy, daily 10am-5pm, go crack nuts and pick up premium flavors!

*Foodland: across Sunset beach, very popular supermarket! Everyone gets poke there.

*Ted’s Bakery: 59-024 Kamehameha Hwy, Haleiwa 96712, off R Sunset Beach, bfast, shrimp plate lunch (just drain the oil) includes a dessert! choc haupia pie (Doug gets whole pie if fresh made= every Sat and Wed in 2021), macadamia nut or coconut cream pie; get whole coconut cake- soft for days, freezes well! NO to cheese cake; Open 7am-8pm Mon-sun; go early for best butter horn Danish (get the fluffiest one, different baker on Sun) – run out, macadamian nut and fruit danish are great. #1 per Doug and Pearl, same level as malasada!

Haleiwa Beach Park:

North Shore Surf Lessons, 58134 Wehiwa Pl, Haleiwa, HI, United States +1 808-233-9805

Waimea Falls Park: native Hawaiians sacred place for more than 700 years. Waimea = ‘The Valley of The Priests’, botanical gardens, hike to pristine waterfall area where swimming is encouraged! giant jungle beaming with wildlife, a true nature paradise.

*Waimea Bay Beach Park: 61-031 Kamehameha Hwy, Clear waters, lots of sand, soft sand towards shore! option water-shoes! Shade near the rocks. Weigh down your towels, mats, or beach chairs -winds can get a little strong. stock up on water and food/snacks before arriving! Yes showers and foot faucets and accessible bathrooms! Locals and adrenaline junkies jump off the famous cliff jump! Baby jump further out requires swim, caution: sand has a quick deep drop and strong waves pull you out – careful.

*Kahuku Land Farms Stand: 56-781 Kamehameha local papaya, lichee, coconut, Best Kahuku Corn, fruits, heliconia; went when kids were young (GMa, side road open stands) 808-232-2202, cash only.

*Kahuku Farms: 56-800 Kamehameha Hwy 11am-4pm Mon, wed-Sun, farmer market, smoothies, ice cream sand, pizza; farm tours book, 808-293-8159.

Sharks Cove: 59-711 Kamehameha Hwy, great Summer-time only spot beach for the family, cove is protected, in summer 1’ to 3’ surfs, located to the right of the tide pools. rocks so reef shoes needed, shallow calm water area to snorkel, Do Snorkel here to see more fish (parrotfish,chubs,jacks…) than Haunama Bay! Because marine sanctuary-no fishing. A local very popular dive (turtles, sharks, nudibranchs, slipper lobster,crab,eels…?orange cup coral) spot. Do NOT go in winter months, water swells 30’ will sweep you against rocks.

Waimea Bay Beach park off Hwy 99 many beaches to stop at along the way; 2 rocks that people jump off of.

*Waimea Valley and Falls=hike to pools, gardens, costs to enter, have boards for use; clear water 30’ deep, optional: swim shoes for rocks, no beach, relax, favorite place to hike and swim. (per Jeannie, local serious swimmers go snorkeling to the right, swim a bit far out to the edge of the bay).

*Waimea Falls Farmer’s market: 2pm -7pm Thur afternoon farmer’s market in the best setting (love to make it here): live music, clothing, vegetables, picnic area, monkeypod trees, Job Brewer exotic woods 808-542-7069. Wicked Hi Slush: 508-212-2800, Ashley, Great real fruit flavored ice, local honey, Noni balm, bakery, crepes and pizza looks good; (NO to large beef lumpia; will try other side pad thai; upstairs place looks good but ?no to Peacock food)

Haleiwa boat pier: (a Local beach with Turtles but no crowds, across from Haleiwa Joes restaurant, Kaleo and Sina’s family swim at this beach) less people and always see turtles mostly April to August. Contrast to Traffic/parking problems at Laniakea beach with many tourist, Watch out crossing!

Waipahu:

*Tanioka’s Seafoods and Catering 94-903 Farrington Hwy, Waipahu; after shopping Waikele, or if going to KoOlina 9am-2pm; on Fri, Sat till 5pm, poke goes fast 808-671-3779 4.5/1.3k, freshest poke, spicy, limu, shoyu, garlic, fish patty, cone sushi, ocean salad, garlic chicken, shrimp tempura giant sized, musube, seafood pancake, mmm; best variety to cater a party! No eating area, take to-go, great for party trays. Doug’s favorite.

*Waikele premium shopping outlet mall: 94-790 Lumiania St, stop on way to North shore, opens 9am-9pm, BCBG, Barneys, tommy Bahama #107 (Carlos= Assist manager 808-686-9030), Coach….

C——– WINDWARD SIDE

Kaneohe:

*Waiahole Poi Factory: 48-140 Kamehameha hwy

*Zippy’s: Great hash brown egg breakfast, long john or crispy donut, Cornbread + Chili, portugese sausage biscuit Bfast, sweet bread Bfast, ramen; Napoleon bakery has Haupia cake; (65y/o Senior coffee), large space, cold AC J, parking

*Kenko-Ya: 46-047 KAM Hwy, Kaneohe Bay Shopping Center 4/196, good variety, Best Tofu, butter fish OMG! Sukiyaki, Teriyaki chicken, (ok unagi) A find, busy japanese sushi, near Safeway, we repeat regularly.

*Haliewa joe’s: Haiku Gardens, 46-336 Haiku Rd Kaneohe, HI 808-247-6671 Dinner only, 4:30pm-10pm get huge prime rib! (no reservations, so call ahead to make sure how many prime ribs, “med-rare, on med side, only fresh cut”), open restaurant in a garden (must use mosquito repellent esp @ dusk), split prime rib, get cesars! The Haliewa location restaurant is open both L&D, grilled salmon, fish taco. HH extensive menu 4:30pm-6:25pm for Pupus (we prefer dinner and dessert), Li Hee Mui blended Margarita is delicious. Paradise pie is in top 10 favorites!

*Teddy’s Bigger Burgers: 46-021 Kamehameha Hwy 10-9pm, easy park, Large Strip Mall next to Safeway, Starbucks

Mokoli’i Island: north end of Kaneohe, off of Kualoa Regional Bay Park, great spot for photos, unique shape (decline derogatory name – Chinaman’s Hat) has sea caves and two small beaches, one secluded cove facing the ocean. Low tide walk with reef shoes or kayak,

Koolau Mountains 20-minute climb is strenuous and leads through thick brush, dirt and lava ledges, also a seabird nesting ground. see the distinctive profile of Kamehameha’s Turtle, Mokapu peninsula. Legend has it that the turtle safeguards a secret underwater tunnel, which was used by King Kamehameha I, Hawaii’s warrior monarch, to reach the island of Molokai. Today the peninsula is the home of a marine base. FYI, small hammer head sharks. climb up to the top for a stunning view majestic.

Ko’olau Mt range: between Kaneohe and ranch, beautiful, sacred power “Mana” spirit emanates from cliffs; waterfalls.

*Tropical Farms 49-227 Kamehameha 808-237-1960 variety of fresh macadamian nuts, kona coffee samples, chickens, tourist stop to crack nuts, easy enjoyable stop w/BR buy local items. 9:30am-5:30pm daily!

*Kualoa Ranch: 49-560 Kamehameha Hwy Kaneohe East side, reserve ahead to ride horses and ATV rides; favorite! 9-5pm 808-237-7321 Jeep tour every 30” 1hr $27/Adult call avail @10am, jungle tour, horse ride-check in 30” ahead. 2hr ATV – 10% off if have a resident card @ purchase (we know of falls and injuries!) very dirty but the kids go every time! Wanda and Paul like it. Pat’s café, gift store and vacuumed ranch beef for sale in refrigerator.

Farm Tours and Zipling at Ranch.

Byodo-In Temple: Cemetery and Botanical Garden 9am-5pm Koi fish, black swans, $3 entry serene; Valley of the Temples Memorial Park is the most beautiful setting to visit.

Waiahole: (means water):

*Waiahole Poi Factory: 48-140 Kamehameha Hwy #808-239-2222, 10am-6pm daily, 4.5/477 (#1 or 4, share +extra side Lomi salmon), #2 Squid luau+ Laulau, best lomi salmon, authentic Hawaiian food, HIW hidden gem, sit inside or outside, to-go box, logo T-shirts, Lopaka buys fresh hand pounded poi by gallon here, food made traditional way. (1^st stop from airport to beach house, close to Kaaawa!)

KAAAWA:

Beach House 51-355 Kamehameha Hwy 96730 after you see Kaaawa Beach Park, the last house on the ocean side before gets sandy area again. Opposite the Ko’olani Mts and Kaaawa Elementary school on Left as drive north are just before house. 140’ Ocean frontage: sound of Waves, Sun rise, Moon rise, Snorkel, Fish, Omama, Tako fishing, Night fishers, Kaaawa Reef: keeps low waters 1-3 feet all the way out for 2 blocks until see white break waters, year round, Whale sighted on other side of reef Jan’19, Cleanest waters on island due to seclusion and Koolani Mts. Connected, Peace, Health, Love, Mana – a Healing Place.

Kaaawa Beach: small, local spot, fishing, walking, BR, Busy road, if need to U turn, go to “Oheilkai Rd – safer to turn around, or follow road behind to exit at intersection. lots cars before 10am and after 3pm till 8pm; traffic can add 30” to any of these time estimates. [Directions from Aston Banyan Hotel in Waikiki: 201 Ohua St @ Kuhio Condo T1-1701, (closeby Café Sweet E’s or Café Kaila bfast) make L Kapahulu, LWailaelae, H1 West (4.3 mi), take Exit #20A Likelike Hwy (#63 North) across Mts (#61 Pali Hwy also works -but prefer 61 if going to Kailua). Stay on R to Hwy 83 Kahekili Hwy, …straight up Kamehameha Hwy.

Crouching Lion Mt: need to look up as drive north high; across Swanze beach and near the 7/11

Hauula: (see tall trees in Mt)

*Hawaiian Monk Seal: (randomly spotted on beach 11.29.16 while looking out) “Epo” -pregnant @ time (H/o SABs, recent Stillbirth) rest on beach most of day, often with her mom. Night feeders -near reef when octopus and eel come out. endangered species only #35, have dog like claws to pull. before Hauula beach park, volunteers, hot line to call if entangled # 888-256-9840, keep dogs away.

Aloha Shrimp: 5/656 “garlic sauce on shrimp was great” fresh, passed many times – will try… highest rating

Laie: Lai-a-e

Laie Village Center: main strip mall, cleanest BR! ’17 remodel

*Food Land: largest one in area (seniors 5% off Thur, if over 60 years)

*Cackle Fresh Egg farm: get fresh eggs here! jumbo 20 for $4.45, local bananas

*State Beach: view coastline!

Kahuku: (has the best papayas, try sunrise = red flesh ones)

*Fumi’s Shrimp truck: 56-777 Kamehameha hwy 10am-7:30pm, Darlene Chan, now Doug’s favorite!, organized, see shrimp ponds all around.

*Giovanni Shrimp Truck: good, but the one in Haleiwa is better if ok with long lines!

Romi’s: Tongan style giant sized shrimp, ?small portion end of the road to North shore, over 30 ponds, try some day

Climb works Keana Farms: Zipline North shore, 808-200-7910, www.keanafarms.com

Turtle Bay: resort, golf

North Shore, at Turtle Bay Resort, North Shore Luau, every Friday night dinner show, tropical drinks @outdoor

Wahiawa:

Shige’s Saimin Stand: 4.5/751, mom and pop, if out here

—– CENTRAL OAHU

Waipahu:

*Tanioka’s Seafoods and Catering 94-903 Farrington Hwy, Waipahu; after shopping Waikele, or if going to 9am-3pm; on Fri, Sat till 5pm, poke goes fast 808-671-3779 4.5/695, freshest poke, spicy, limu, shoyu, garlic, fish patty, cone sushi, ocean salad, garlic chicken; best variety to cater a party! No eating area, take to-go, tied with Ono poke. Doug’s favorite.

*Waikele premium shopping outlet mall: 94-790 Lumiania St, stop on way to North shore, opens 9am-9pm, BCBG, Barneys, tommy Bahama #107 (Carlos= Assist manager 808-686-9030), Coach….

——– PEARL CITY / AIEA

Aiea & Pearl City: H1 West, 13A 78 West Aiea/Pearlridge, R loop, 99 West 1mile, R Honomanu St, L Moanalua Rd, L Ka-onohi St

*Ice Garden’s: 2^nd level mini-mall Aiea Shopping center, (near 99-115 on GPS) 99-080 Kauhale street, Aiea 808 488 5154, local best shaved ice, “like snow”, toppings oatmeal, pudding (flan custard),Taro moochi, (favorites), add ice-cream, local find, cash only, speak Japanese to elderly Gma! (daily 11-5pm, 12-5pm Thur) Taiwanese shaved ice order #5 add oatmeal (taro, mochi Kimberly’s favorite) pudding (a flan). Hole-in-wall (Doug declines the site)

*Sushi Spot: 99-205 Monolua Rd Ste 301Aiea, 4.5/890, casual, HIW w/great sushi 10 tables, easy parking, rolls to-go for group! 808-485-2255

*Aloha Stadium Flea Market: “Swap Meet “ 99-500 Salt Lake Blvd, Aiea to find and buy things, local souveniers, Wed (much smaller) and Sat 8am-3pm, Sun 6:30am -3pm, Sat and Sun=best, most venders, bring a hat/ sun umbrella, $1/person to enter; fresh coconut juice ($3 each, small, hairy brown nut requires large knife, nice lady to the R of “Lin’s” as enter will hack open and go back for the coconut meat (you put in zip lock). skip the “fake shaved ice.” Bring cash, bargain, larger bags, sunscreen.

*The Alley Restaurant Bar and Grill 99-115 Aiea Heights Drive (GPS near 99-99 Aiea, HI) 96701 808-488-6854 3^rd Fl top level in the bowling alley above Ice Garden, (Kim, Pearl like “Tasty chicken”, famous Lemon Crunch cake (Awesome dessert window, but too sweet for my ’17 palate) get Oxtail soup per Joanne (Doug likes Ponzu sauce, add noodles). garlic shrimp plate, try calamari; opens late even Sun, 7am-9:30pm, Great family Bfast options (skip tasteless coffee) close to swap meet!

—— EAST OAHU

Hawaii Kai: Honolulu “Windward Side” upscale homes have deck to boat

*Costco Hawaii Kai: best stocked, special Hawaii items Costco, 333A Keahole St,10am-8:30pm on the water, near town center mall

Koko Head Hike and Kokohead crater: photo of land formation and straight line to top, a shocking discovery to see people hiking up to the top “a more strenuous hike for the adventurous”

*Bubbies: 7192 Kalanianaole hwy, mochi ice cream, order sundae (triple ice cream cake) Open 12pm 808-949-8984.

*Moena Café: Bfast Brunch 4/575 7192 Kalanianaole; pancakes, waffle, kale cesars plain chicken salad (Pearl), loco moco eggs, fried rice; clean AC, 2 doors from Bubbies, BR upstairs (96825 or 14920-men). Skip sandwiches- small.

*Sophie’s Pizza: 7192 Kalanianole Hwy, 4.5/142 2$, delicious toppings, thin crust, across theater, gourmet good quality, owned by (realtor) Christine Kim’s husband; Lunch sit in back on marina. Next to Zippy’s.

*Roy’s Hawaii Kai: 4.5/622, 3$ 6600 Kalanianole Hwy The three-course, prix fixe sunset pau hana menu at original Roy’s in Hawai‘i Kai starts off with furikake-crusted big-eye ‘ahi tataki on Waimānalo greens, followed by flame-grilled petite filet mignon and garlic shrimp Kaua‘i prawns. Dessert is pineapple upside-down cake with vanilla ice cream. $45 per person, with an optional glass of Roy’s cabernet sauvignon or chardonnay for $12.50. (The Waikīkī location also features a pau hana menu.)

5 to 7 p.m. daily, 6600 Kalaniana‘ole Hwy., (808) 396-7697

Makapu’u Light house trail: easier trail, 2 miles, paved except at top, see islands of Moloka’I and Maui, see rocks, 45” walk paved, uphillsland, View: Koolau Mts, Manna (rabbit) Island, Kaohikaipu Island, Mokulua Islands (twin), Mokolii Island.

Makapuu Lookout: gorgeous views of Oahu’s East shore, including Rabbit Island and the Mokulua Islands. ideal for whale watching during the winter months. Military Pillboxes that line the mountain side. Makapu’u Light house trail: easier trail, 2 miles, paved except at top, see islands of Moloka’I and Maui, see rocks, 45” walk paved, uphillsland, View:

China Walls in Hawaii Kai: locals jump into ocean from the sea cliffs

*Uncle Clay’s House of Pure Aloha: 820 W Hind Dr #116 use real fruit make own flavors, #1 best quality, love green tea, coconut, strawberry with Tahitian vanilla ice cream. Located in Aina Haina Shopping Center, 808-373-5111 10:30-8pm F-sun, 11am-6pm

*Costco 333A Keahole St Hawaii Kai 10am-8:30pm on the water, near town center mall

Town Center: Longs, Safeway – huge, shoe repair, busy hair barber shop ($22 blow dry – yet to try)

*Island Brew Coffeehouse: 377 Keahole St Ste C5 6am-6pm 4.5/343 all types of local coffee, famous for Malabar mocha –with coconut milk, Americano (Pearl’s favorite) all good. best in-area acai bowl (be aware the soft style, warmer pure and honey), mac waffle and lox bagels look great too; awesome view of Kokohead, marine, water sports, has quality, great staff and Best Atmosphere- so we drive here (for Pearl ranked #1: get large to-go cup and use small mug to savor black Island brew coffee, need receipt to enter Doug’s phone for points). Open 6am-6pm. drive PAST Costco, in Hawaii Kai Town center on water marina, with huge Long’s and Safeway, turn R into lot. barista coffee, our favorite feel sitting spot (AM listen to diving test prep). fyi- clean BR across code #1018 changes.

Koko Head Hike and Kokohead crater: photo of land formation and straight line to top, a shocking discovery to see people hiking up to the top “a more strenuous hike for the adventurous”

*Hanauma Bay: closed on Tues. Go right when it opens at 7am to swim and snorkel with the fish when not crowded. Hike down or pay, conservation movie so no feeding fish. Cost $7.50/person in 2015. the clearest waters of Oahu’s marine sanctuary (no fishing allowed), natural wonder and the marine life. *Haunama Bay: 100 Haunama Bay Rd, Honolulu; snorkel safe shallow waters, colorful fish, crowded weekends, go early, trolley back up hill! Non-residents $7pp need to watch film once/year, Resident with ID = free. Volcanic crater, curved bay sanctuary. open year-round, except for Tuesdays, Christmas and New Year’s Day. Plan to arrive as early as you can or wait until the crowd trickles out in the mid-afternoon. During summer, the state park opens at 6 am and closes at 7 pm. It closes at 6 pm in winter. Parking can fill up as early as 7:30 am and costs $1 a vehicle. From the parking lot, it’s a short but steep 10-minute walk in to the beach. If you don’t want to walk, you can take a quick tram ride down for $1 and back up for $1.25. closed on Tues. Go right when it opens at 7am to swim and snorkel with the fish when not crowded. Hike down or pay, conservation movie so no feeding fish. Cost $7.50/person in 2015. the clearest waters of Oahu’s marine sanctuary (no fishing allowed), natural wonder and the marine life. 100 Haunama Bay Rd, Honolulu; snorkel safe shallow waters, colorful fish, crowded weekends, go early, trolley back up hill! Non-residents $7pp need to watch film once/year, Resident with ID = free. Volcanic crater, curved bay sanctuary. open year-round, except for Tuesdays, Christmas and New Year’s Day. Plan to arrive as early as you can or wait until the crowd trickles out in the mid-afternoon. During summer, the state park opens at 6 am and closes at 7 pm. It closes at 6 pm in winter. Parking can fill up as early as 7:30 am and costs $1 a vehicle. From the parking lot, it’s a short but steep 10-minute walk in to the beach. If you don’t want to walk, you can take a quick tram ride down for $1 and back up for $1.25.

*Bubbies: 7192 Kalanianaole hwy, local ice cream, mochi ice cream, order sundae = (triple ice cream cake) Open 12pm 808-949-8984, lines.

China Walls in Hawaii Kai: locals jump into ocean from the sea cliffs

Kailua: straight across Pali Hwy = #61; very nice beach, safest, can paddle; great, clean place to live, pricey homes, growing commercial options ‘19

*Nalu Health Bar & Cafe: 131 Hekili St #109 9am-6pm daily Acai bowl 24oz “Nalu bowl” Pearl’s #1 favorite, best tasting, neat, highest quality (pure dark, not icy, smoothie style –will melt at end, fresh made to order (n/c substituted blueberries out for papaya) delicious nalo green salads (no to added meat)! wraps look very good (BR for the block is in the back! women’s code changes 01319#. Park free across and up the St in open lot near whole foods.

*Whole Foods: 629 Kailua Rd, 7am-10pm, salad bar, all types of high quality prepared food for take out, plenty of sitting areas to meet people. Always Packed, huge.

*Over Easy: 418 Kuulei Rd #103, best custard french toast (half order), fennel sausage house-made (Pearl); get easy over plate w/salad & house made sourdough bread, kalua pig hash, egg fried rice, yum pancake specials, liliko mimosa, very good coffee 4.5/1,135 open kitchen, innovative brunch; our #1 Brunch ‘18 Jen & Nick=Chef, owners. Sat come 7am-8am so no wait, worth the trip over. Street meter parking 10min=quarter, or structure behind McDonalds 808-260-1732 No reservations, signup on wait list with receptionist.

Easy Que: ‘19, BBQ, soft serve dessert, 767 Kailua Road, Suite 106, (808) 762-3089, same owners Nick and Jenn.

Maui Mike’s Fire Roasted Chicken: 1020 Keolu Dr Enchanted Lake center 11-8:30pm bbq American, 4.5/90, Maui Wowie

Beet Box: 46 Hoolai St, 808-262-5000, 4.5/294, 7am-4pm daily, Acai, Smoothies, Vegan, Lunch, like North Shore 1^st cafe

*Uahi Island Grill: 33 Aulike St ’16, 808-266-4646 4*/603, 11am-8pm daily, Red Curry Fish! = our favorite, ask fresh catch? Irie or garlic chicken, *Yogurt Mama in Kailua, turn L @Onoawei; natural ingredients, sold, story is Raymond Wong per Doug, Dan F.

Island Snow: Obama frequents for shaved ice, 4/583, 130 Kailua Rd, 808-263-6339

*Buzz’s Original Steak House: 413 Kawailoa Rd. Kailua, 11am-3pm, 4:30-9:30pm, 808-261-4661; Doug looks forward to the best fish ever! Get “fish if the day” done chinese style (steamed) always great! No more Salad bar (pickled onions), past loved the Crab Louie salad. NO to prime rib, steak or burger! located right across from Lanikai beach! Sit outside, great Tiki ambience (ask for chop sticks to eat salad), great BR.

*Kailua Farmer’s Market: 609 Kailua Rd, behind Longs Drugs Thur 5:00pm-7:30pm music, papaya, kale, sorrel, Pig and Lady [Loren, Ulu Mana wants breadfruit (green/yellow with sap oozing, pay $1 each) $7/container or bag fried or 3/$20, eat fresh, not keep long]

Pali Lookout Nu’uanu: great place to view windward side Kailua to Kaneohe to Kahaluu. Hwy #61 Connects downtown and windward side – stop @ Queen Emma summer home and Pali Lookout. Heard of a beautiful hike to an amazing waterfall. A well-hidden gem, 25-foot, 3 tier natural waterfall down the Old Pali highway built in the 1800’s, a quick moderate hike then dip in pool.

A+D jump off point: Alan Davis, Safe beach that young people jump into the water, all locals know this, Kim says not too high.

Ka’iiwa Ridge Trail = Lanikai Pill Boxes: great hike, need shoes, a great view windward coast. one of easier hikes on island also one of most scenic. Concrete guard posts.

Mokulua: 2 islands you can see to the right from the beach, can explore the small island on the left.

Laniakea Beach – 61-676 Kamehameha Hwy, Haleiwa 96712 “Turtle beach” “Honu sighting” Giant and baby green sea turtles year round, keep 3 feet away (do not stand like a wall of people or they stop advancing, poor vision), they stay away if strong currents, they feed on green algae, seaweed on the limestone shelves, rocks, Lock your car! watch traffic! Both sides. no sign, use phone GPS. Kim saw lots of colorful fish snorkeling close to beach. 4/18 Wanda and Paul photo 3 of them on the beach!

Turtle Bay: resort, public beach and bathroom, need kayak to see turtles, golf, beach

——- WEST OAHU

Kapolei:

Mall

*Lagoons at Ko Olina- 3 man made lagoons, calm and quiet; first one has most parking, swim in lagoon #4 92-100 Waipahu Pl: 1^st Lagoon, four seasons hotel, $parking fee in marina, all 4 lagoons have BRs, no life guards.

*Roy’s Ko Olina: 92-1220 Aliinui Dr Kapolei 96707 808-676-7697, choc soufflé, short ribs, misoyaki butterfish, mac nut opah, choc soufflé. Quiet, as an early bird special.

*Wet n Wild 400 Farrington Hwy -Wet ’n’ Wild Waterpark sprawls over 29 acres in Kapolei, 25 attractions, a luau. 96707-2020, not cheap Younger keiki enjoy Water World Kids Playground, kid-friendly slides, a lily pad walk and water cannons. 400 Farrington Highway, Kapolei, (808) 674-9283. Also church nearby, smaller waterpark, sign in, invited ok, more manageable per Todd and Joyce.

*Germaine’s Luau: near Barber’s Point Beach Park: 91-121 Olai St, Kapolei (avoid area in day, junk yard, all industrial area)

——- WINDWARD SIDE

Kaneohe:

Masa & Joyce Okazuya 45-582 Kamehameha Highway • Kāne‘ohe • (808) 235-6129 #1 ranked Okazuya deli in Oahu

*Waiahole Poi Factory: 48-140 Kamehameha hwy

Ahi Assassins Fish: 45-512 Kea’ahala, 4.5/737

*Windward Mall Farmers market: 46-056 Kamehameha Hwy Kaneohe Sun 10am-2pm, Wed 2:30pm-7:30pm on 2^nd floor food only, vegetables and flowers! nice Sears in ‘17.

Morning Glass Coffee + Cafe: 47-200 Waihee Rd, Kaneohe, ranked in top 3 coffee, 4/588 drip coffee 4 barrel and Cava; 2^nd loc in Kakaako; 3^rd loc 2955 E. Manoa Rd, 808-673-0065

Ko’olau Mt range: between Kaneohe and ranch, beautiful, sacred power “Mana” spirit emanates from cliffs; waterfalls.

Farm Tours and Zipling at Ranch.

Byodo-In Temple: Cemetery and Botanical Garden 9am-5pm Koi fish, black swans, $3 entry serene; Valley of the Temples Memorial Park is the most beautiful setting to visit.

Waiahole: (means water):

KAAAWA:

Hauula: (see tall trees in Mt)

Aloha Shrimp: 5/656 “garlic sauce on shrimp was great” fresh, passed many times – will try… highest rating

Laie: Lai-a-e

Gunstock Horse riding stable = next to the long beautiful Fenced road – people jog, bike etc.

Trail: white fence, parallel to Hwy for walk, jog, bike with breathtaking open views with far off Mts

Laie Village Center: main strip mall, cleanest BR! ’17 remodel

*Food Land: largest one in area (seniors 5% off Thur, if over 60 years)

*Cackle Fresh Egg farm: get fresh eggs here! jumbo 20 for $4.45, local bananas

Kahuku: (has the best papayas, try sunrise = red flesh ones)

*Fumi’s Shrimp truck: 56-777 Kamehameha hwy 10am-7:30pm, Darlene Chan, now Doug’s favorite!, organized, see shrimp ponds all around.

*Giovanni Shrimp Truck: good, but the one in Haleiwa is better if ok with long lines!

*Farm Table Café: Kahuku Farms, 56-800 Kamehameha Hwy, smoothies, tables and sitting area behind, 5*/598, 2$11am-4pm, try Haupia pineapple smoothie $5, half papaya w/sorbet $4.5, wagon tour, Papayas! smoothies, freshest, delicious food, vege Panini, grilled banana bread, cleanest port-a-potty. Would be my go-to place if I was not rushing to Kaaawa.

* Kahuku Farms Café and Tours: 56-800 Kamehameha Hwy, farm tour AGU land next to Cafe

Romi’s: Tongan style giant sized shrimp, ?small portion end of the road to North shore, over 30 ponds, try some day

Climb works Keana Farms: Zipline North shore, 808-200-7910, www.keanafarms.com

Turtle Bay: resort, golf in North Shore @Turtle Bay Resort, North Shore Luau, every Friday night dinner show, tropical drinks @outdoor Surfside Hang Ten bar, late night entertainment and dancing at the Bay Club. live Hawaiian entertainment lobby daily 4:30 p.m.- 6:30 p.m.

Wahiawa:

Travel Notes:

!!!Warning from many locals! Avoid the monthly “box jellyfish” etc in waters and on many beaches, especially (Kuhio beach near wall per Waikiki researchers)! Venom stings, painful, see blue dome, come in swarms out of water to spawn on beach after the full moon for about a week. See signs posted as well.

BUY SOME WATER SHOES…must protect your feet in the waters of Waikiki…people step on Sea Urchins! Sites= Ko’olina Beach and Ala Moana Beach Park, Lanikai =good for young kids. Waikiki is SUPER rocky!!! definitely get reef shoes step on rocks/coral. go to the ihilani hotel, five ko’olina lagoons- manmade so bottoms are nice and sandy–very few rocks. don’t go during jellyfish season, though. Ala moana beach is great but packed with tourists, no rocks.

If you want to do a luau, go to paradise cove.