Waikiki Beach, Honolulu: Part 1

Waikiki represents all that's iconic about vacationing in Hawaii. High rise resorts, golden sunsets, surfers, and Diamond Head in the background - it's just like the postcards. The air is soft, the beach is always buzzing, and no joke, fresh pineapple is served with almost everything. You can't beat the crowds here, but hey, it's a small price to pay for paradise. 

Located on the southern shore of Oahu, Honolulu's Waikiki Beach hosts practically every tourist amenity you'd expect to find in a tropical locale. From surfboard rentals and sunset cruises to live music and beachfront restaurants, boredom is entirely by choice. Kalakaua Avenue, the main drag through Waikiki, is a mix of the Las Vegas strip and Rodeo Drive. Tall hotels are surrounded by expensive designer shops, trailing into familiar chains and ABC souvenir stores on every corner.

Duke Kahanamoku Statue

Despite exploring most of Oahu, the bulk of my week was spent in Waikiki. Whether I was wandering around the beach, shopping or out grabbing drinks, it seems I was always stumbling onto something memorable. Then again, it's a Hawaiian vacation. What's not to love? 

I bought myself a ukelele and proceeded to play it badly for the week.

Diamond Head

Me (left) with my family on Waikiki Beach.