In June, we spent an unforgettable 10 days exploring Hawaii, splitting our trip between the Big Island and Oahu. It was the perfect combination of adventure, incredible food, breathtaking scenery, and plenty of time to relax. If you’re planning a Hawaii vacation, here’s a look at everything we experienced!
Days 1–5: The Big Island (Pahoa)
For the first five nights, we stayed in a beautiful oceanfront home in Pahoa overlooking the Pacific Ocean. Waking up each morning to the sound of the waves and watching the sunrise over the water was something we’ll never forget. The home was close enough to town that grabbing meals and exploring local attractions was easy.
After arriving, we stopped at Kaleo’s Bar & Grill for dinner before heading to the house to unwind and get some rest before our first full day of exploring.
Day 2: Beaches & Our First Sea Turtle
We started the day with lunch at Pineapples Island Fresh Cuisine, which quickly became one of our favorite restaurants of the trip.
After lunch, we headed to Richardson Ocean Park. Although the surf was too rough for us to swim, the dramatic lava rock coastline and beautiful blue water made it well worth the visit.
Next, we made our way to Carlsmith Beach Park, where the calm, crystal-clear water was perfect for cooling off. The highlight of the afternoon was spotting a sea turtle swimming nearby—an unforgettable experience!
Day 3: Waterfalls & Rainforest Adventures
Our morning began with a visit to Lava Tree State Monument, where lava from an eruption centuries ago left behind incredible tree-shaped lava molds.
Next, we stopped at the beautiful Rainbow Falls, one of the Big Island’s most famous waterfalls.
For lunch, we visited another local favorite, Pi’ilani Kitchen, where we enjoyed delicious Hawaiian food followed by refreshing shaved ice.
That afternoon, we explored Akaka Falls State Park, taking the scenic rainforest trail to one of Hawaii’s most spectacular waterfalls. The lush tropical plants, bamboo, and towering trees made the walk almost as beautiful as the waterfall itself.
Day 4: Coffee, Chocolate & Relaxation
We enjoyed brunch at Pele’s Kitchen, a fun local restaurant with a laid-back, artsy atmosphere.
Later, we toured a local coffee and cacao farm where we learned how Hawaiian coffee and chocolate are grown and produced. Sampling fresh coffee and chocolate straight from the source made the experience even better.
After the tour, we headed back to the house to spend the afternoon relaxing by the pool while soaking in the incredible ocean views.
Dinner that evening was at Black Rock Cafe, another fantastic local restaurant with excellent food.
Day 5: Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park
One of the highlights of the entire trip was visiting Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park.
We spent the day driving the park loop and stopping at many of its most famous attractions, including:
- Thurston Lava Tube
- Steam Vents
- Kīlauea Overlooks
- Scenic volcanic landscapes
- Craters and lava fields
Every stop offered something completely different, making it one of the most unique national parks we’ve ever visited.
For lunch, we ate at The Rim at Volcano House. Between the delicious food and the incredible views overlooking Kīlauea Caldera, it was easily one of our favorite meals of the trip.
Days 6–10: Oahu & Disney’s Aulani Resort
Day 6: Arrival at Aulani
After checking out of our Big Island home, we flew back to Oahu and arrived at Disney’s Aulani Resort early that afternoon.
Our room was incredible—a spacious Two-Bedroom Island View Villa that gave us plenty of room to spread out and truly relax.
That evening, we had dinner at Makahiki, Aulani’s signature restaurant. Everything we ordered was delicious, making it the perfect way to begin our stay.
Day 7: Resort Day
We dedicated the day to enjoying everything Aulani has to offer.
Although the weather brought occasional rain showers, it never slowed us down.
We had an amazing time:
- Snorkeling in Rainbow Reef with hundreds of tropical fish
- Racing down the water slides
- Floating around the lazy river
- Swimming in the pools
- Relaxing in the hot tubs
- Spending time on the beautiful beach
That evening we walked across the street to 808 Craft House, where we enjoyed one of our favorite dinners of the trip. The food was absolutely incredible.
Day 8: Pearl Harbor & Historic Honolulu
We were picked up early for a private island tour that included many of Oahu’s most famous landmarks.
Our first stop was Pearl Harbor National Memorial, one of the most moving places we’ve ever visited. Standing where history unfolded on December 7, 1941, gave us a much deeper appreciation for the sacrifices made during World War II. Visiting the memorial serves as a powerful reminder of the lives lost and the resilience of the American people.
Throughout the day we also visited:
- ʻIolani Palace, the only official royal palace in the United States
- The Hawaii State Capitol
- The King Kamehameha Statue
- Diamond Head State Monument
- National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific (Punchbowl Crater)
After returning to Aulani, we spent the rest of the afternoon enjoying more pool and beach time.
Dinner that evening was at Monkeypod Kitchen, another restaurant located just across the street from the resort. Once again, the food did not disappoint.
Day 9: Aloha Spirit
Our final full day was all about enjoying Aulani one last time.
The girls participated in one of the resort’s activities and made adorable Hawaiian Mickey ears before we spent more time at the pools and beach.
That evening, we attended the KA WAʻA Lūʻau, located right at Aulani.
This wasn’t just dinner—it was an unforgettable cultural experience. The evening celebrated Hawaiian history and traditions through authentic music, hula dancing, storytelling, fire knife performances, and incredible Polynesian entertainment. The buffet featured a wide variety of Hawaiian-inspired dishes, making it the perfect way to end our vacation while learning more about the islands’ rich culture.
Day 10: Until Next Time, Hawaii
Before we knew it, it was time to pack our bags and head home.
Ten days went by far too quickly, but Hawaii gave us memories that will last a lifetime. From black sand beaches, waterfalls, volcanoes, sea turtles, and rainforests on the Big Island to the magic of Disney’s Aulani, Pearl Harbor, and authentic Hawaiian culture on Oahu, this trip truly had something for everyone.
If Hawaii has been on your bucket list, let this be your sign to go. Whether you’re looking for adventure, relaxation, family fun, or breathtaking scenery, Hawaii offers an experience you’ll never forget.
Aloha, until next time! 🌺
Let's Travel with April 