So, you’re gearing up for an Aulani adventure? Buckle up because I’ve got some tasty tips and island insights to make your Oahu escapade epic! If you want to get your money’s worth at Aulani, plan on staying somewhere else like Waikiki for a couple days and use those days to explore the island. You are paying a lot to stay at Aulani so you should experience the relaxation and all of the amenities Aulani has to offer. If you stay in Waikiki for a couple days, you will be spending less on hotel, and it is more worthwhile to venture out to other parts of the island.
Just to let you know, the shave ice at Aulani is okay. It hits the spot on those hot days by the pools. But the shave ice at Aulani is not authentic Hawaiian shave ice. It is so cute shaped like Mickey, but it’s more like a commercialized version of shave ice. And please remember, when you are in Hawaii, its called Shave Ice (not Shaved Ice) 🙂
Now, let’s talk shave ice – the sweet nectar of Hawaiian life! Picture this: Matsumoto’s in Haleiwa, Waiola Shave Ice in Honolulu, or maybe Ululani’s if you’re feeling fancy from your Maui trip. If you go to Waiola’s off Kapahulu, you have to go to Leonard’s Bakery down the street. Sure, the parking’s tight, but trust me, it’s worth the squeeze. And don’t even get me started on those malasadas – Leonard’s knows what’s up! But hold up, forget those mall trucks; Leonard’s on Kapahulu is where it’s at! Just know that you are going to gain some weight on this trip.
But wait, there’s more! Have you ever tried snow puffs from Paalaa Kai Bakery? It’s like biting into a cloud filled with custard dreams, sprinkled with powdered sugar goodness. And for a savory fix, North Shore’s Ted’s Bakery has got your back with their garlic shrimp plate and chocolate haupia pie – a combo that’ll have you coming back for more (and maybe adding a few pounds to the luggage… and the waistline). My other favorite place for garlic shrimp is Giovanni’s Shrimp Truck in Haleiwa. Giovanni’s has 3 locations. But for some reason, the one in Haleiwa just tasted amazing that day we went there, and has become my favorite. If you are at Giovanni’s, go to Matsumoto’s after for a refreshing dessert. There are restrooms at the Matsumoto’s shopping center just in case 😉
Hey, party people! Got something special to celebrate? Look no further than Haleiwa Joe’s Haiku Gardens in Kaneohe – it’s like dining in paradise, surrounded by majestic Ko’olau mountains, lush tropical greenery, and koi pond. Seriously, it’s so stunning, you might forget you’re there for the food… almost. But fear not, because the grub is as mouthwatering as the view is breathtaking.
If you go to Haleiwa Joe’s Haiku Gardens you might have some time to swing by the Windward Mall for a Sweet Lady of Waiahole at the Waiahole Poi Factory. It is a delicious Hawaiian dessert with warm Kulolo and Haupia ice cream. It is so good. You have to save room for it! I almost forgot to mention they also have one of my favorite comfort foods: chicken long rice. If you have never had it before, it is a soup with chicken broth, glass noodles, and chicken. They have all kinds of Hawaiian food too like lau lau and kalua pig, but the last time I went there it was just for the Sweet Lady. When I saw they had chicken long rice, I couldn’t resist.
If you are in Kaneohe on a Sunday or Wednesday before or after your trip to the North Shore or Kualoa Ranch, go to the Farmer’s Market at the Windward Mall. They are open on Sundays from 10:00am-2pm and Wednesdays from 2pm-6pm. They have all kinds of fruits and vegetables but I always want the Haupia and the pastries. They even have the Haupia/Kulolo combo.
Now, if you’re craving a more laid-back vibe for a family feast, head over to the Side Street Inn. It’s got that down-to-earth charm with flavors that’ll knock your socks off. They serve large portions you can share with your family. So, whether you’re fancying up for Haleiwa Joe’s or keeping it casual at the local spot, one thing’s for sure: your taste buds are in for a treat!
Don’t forget your sunscreen when you go sightseeing around the island. Sun Bum Original SPF 50 Sunscreen Spray |Vegan and Hawaii 104 Reef Act Compliant (Oxtinoxate & Oxibenzone Free) Broad Spectrum Moisturizing UVA/UVB Sunscreen with Vitamin E | 6oz is a great choice. Don’t forget your visor too FURTALK Sun Visor Hats for Women Wide Brim Straw Roll-Up Ponytail Summer Beach Hat UV UPF Packable Foldable Travel.
- ORIGINAL SPF 50 SUNSCREEN SPRAY . This is the stuff we use every day. The sunscreen that started it all and smells like summer. We wanted a sunscreen to protect those who live and love in the sun, so we made it.
- MOISTURIZING SUN PROTECTION. Dermatologist and Sonny approved, this non-comedogenic sunscreen delivers UVA/UVB protection and is packed with Vitamin E. Our oil-free, water-resistant and Hawaii 104 Reef Act Compliant SPF 50 Spray is great for all skin types.
- HOW TO USE. 15 minutes before sun exposure, apply liberally to all areas of the skin and avoid the eye area. For best results, reapply after 80 minutes of swimming or sweating. Sonny’s Tip: Apply every 2 hours for maximum sun protection.
Last update on 2024-12-12 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
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Last update on 2024-12-12 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Oh my goodness. I forgot about Zippy’s. Ah, Zippy’s – the ultimate local fast food fix! When hunger strikes, I make a beeline for their crispy fried chicken, lip-smacking chili, twirl-worthy spaghetti, and that macaroni salad. And don’t even get me started on their dobash cake – it’s like a sweet slice of heaven! If you want a bowl of won ton min, go to the Zippy’s in Kahala and sit in the restaurant so you can really enjoy it. They still give you the Chinese hot mustard which I love to dip my won ton in.
Now, here’s the deal: you can cozy up and chow down right there or snag your goodies to go – because let’s face it, sometimes pajamas are the dress code for dinner!
But listen up, pizza lovers: I’m about to drop some truth bombs. Sure, pizza’s great and all, but this is Hawaii, folks! It’s time to broaden those taste buds and dive into the delicious melting pot of cultures and flavors waiting for you at Zippy’s. So, say aloha to the same-old, and aloha to a culinary adventure worth savoring! But guess what, my son wants pizza when we are in Hawaii 🙁 boooooo. I’m just lucky he doesn’t like sushi or poke yet. I will be so broke when that happens lol.
Oh now I just remembered Foodland! If you are out and about in Kapolei (the town near Ko’Olina), go to Foodland if you want delicious Poke. That is one of my stops during every visit to Oahu. I buy some Poke, microwavable rice, and Nori. If you have a refrigerator it will save you money rather than buying a bunch of Poke bowls somewhere else.
So, gear up, foodie explorer! Oahu’s calling, and it’s time to eat, explore, and maybe loosen that belt a notch or two.
If you would like to stock up on your favorite Disney item’s, you can always go to www.amazon.com/disney to find all things Disney before your trip.
