Hawaii is one of those places where visitors have one of two experiences: an authentic experience of Hawaii’s beauty, local culture, and society or the canned, touristy version. If you’re looking for a less flashy, off-the-beaten-path hike on Oahu, Aina Haina is one we have enjoyed for its diverse flora and fauna, away from the…
While most of our yearly Hawaii trips are to Oahu to visit family, we’ve enjoyed a couple amazing vacations to Kailua-Kona on the Big Island of Hawaii. In this post, we’ll share some of the best things to do in Kona Hawaii for free or low cost. As budget travelers ourselves, we know Hawaii is…
Since Jedd grew up in Honolulu and has a lot of family on the islands, we visit Oahu at least once a year. 11+ years ago, we planned a five day Oahu vacation for our best friends leading up to our wedding. And we have enjoyed sharing Honolulu travel tips and making recommendations for the…
If it’s your first time visiting Hawaii, then Oahu is one of the best places to get to know the beautiful state. We’ll help you plan the perfect trip with our Oahu 5 day itinerary. Oahu is the third largest of the Hawaiian islands and is home to state capital, Honolulu, where Jedd grew up….
In this Go Oahu Pass review, we’ll go over how the pass works, what’s included, and share a Go Oahu card itinerary that will maximize your discount to the best attractions. Jedd grew up on Oahu, Hawaii, and we return to the island frequently to visit family. After putting together Oahu itinerary recommendations for friends…
Wa’ahila Ridge Trail is one of a series of hiking trails in the ridges and valleys on the outskirts of Honolulu. Located at the top of St. Louis heights, this moderately challenging hike offers nice views and varied terrain. Compared to the Wilhelmina Rise hike on the next ridge over, this hike has a little bit less of…
We’ve been hiking in Honolulu for decades but only recently learned about the Hanauma Bay Ridge trail from a cousin. This is an unofficial hike that follows the ridge line above the famous Hana’uma Bay with several scenic views to enjoy. Distance: ~2.5 miles out and back Time: 1 hour Difficulty: Easy Elevation change: ~400ft…
If you’re wondering where to stay on the Big Island, consider finding a place to stay in Kona. Whether you are looking for a vacation rental, hotel, or resort, this guide will help you find the perfect place to stay in Kona on Hawaii’s Big Island. Jedd grew up on Oahu, Hawaii and got to…
The Lulumahu Falls hike, located just off the Pali Highway on Oahu, is relatively short – but it packs a punch. This hike, which in the end becomes more of a “scramble,” was not an official, registered trail. After we first tried it, the State enacted and enforced a permit application process for Lulumahu hiking….
We aim to keep this post updated about Hawaii travel in 2026 with official Hawaii travel restrictions, requirements, and health and safety guidance. Our goal is to help you make informed decisions so you can travel confidently, safely, and responsibly in this new post-pandemic world of ours. At the end of the post, we share…