Dec 15

Dec 15 Hawaii for the Holidays

What to eat, drink, shop and experience.

The backstory

Like many couples, we try to alternate where we spend the holidays each year. And this year, we’re island-bound! Cue Na Leo’s Christmas album.

E’s only been in Hawaii for the holidays once before and like most Minnesotans, his question of whether or not it could feel like Christmas without the snow was on his mind, but quickly sidelined. There is no shortage of the holiday spirit in Hawaii. If anything, it’s bolstered by the Aloha spirit.

It’s been four years since we were last in Hawaii over the holidays - as my mom likes to remind me. So, we’ve got a jam-packed two weeks planned with all of our favorite things on the itinerary. We’re especially looking forward to spending time on the Big Island with extended family. Since my grandmother passed this summer, I’ve had a mental pin on this trip to help me in my grieving process. For many reasons, the holidays tend to spark all the feels, but knowing we’ll be in Kona during the Komo side of the family’s typical NYE traditions, I know there will be some high tide waves of emotion in the forecast that weekend. I know Grandma will be there in spirit to help us ring in the new year.

The 9-day countdown has begun and below are the things at the top of our list this trip home for the holidays. Or really any trip home.

Some of our favorite things

Eat

Off the Hook Poke Market in Manoa
New Liliha Bakery location at International Market Place in Waikiki
Lemon Crunch Cake from The Alley Restaurant at Aiea Bowl. (Order ahead and get a cake for your festivities if you want to be the best guest ever.)
Waiola shave ice on Waiola St.

Drink