By Jody Robinson
There are vacations, and then there are the ones that become family legends. The kind everyone talks about long after the suitcases are unpacked. Traveling with grandparents and teenagers isn’t always easy, but Hawaii proved to be one of those rare destinations where every generation found something to love. Rich history, unforgettable culture, incredible food, world-famous beaches, and enough shave ice and malasadas to keep everyone smiling – it didn’t take long for Oahu to work its magic on our family.
KA LA’I WAIKĪKĪ BEACH
Just a short stroll from Waikīkī Beach, the Ka La’i Waikīkī Beach offers easy access to the best of Honolulu while feeling like a peaceful retreat from the bustle outside.
The property showcases 238 residential-style studios and suites with fully equipped kitchens, spa-inspired bathrooms, and private lanais with views of the Pacific Ocean or Fort DeRussy Park. The thoughtful layout means adults can enjoy quiet mornings with coffee while the younger set sleep in. It’s the kind of property that feels more like an upscale island residence than a traditional hotel.
One of the unexpected highlights of our visit was the incredible dining experience at The Kini Room, the resort’s signature Pacific Rim restaurant led by Executive Chef Yoshi Ohata. The warm, inviting space reflects the relaxed sophistication of the hotel, while the menu celebrates Hawaii’s incredible bounty with fresh, locally sourced ingredients and contemporary island flavors. Perusing the breakfast menu, a clear standout? The fluffy macadamia nut pancakes drizzled with local honey, tropical fruit plates bursting with fresh pineapple, papaya, and mango, or traditional Hawaiian-inspired favorites paired with rich Kona coffee.
Dinner showcased the kitchen’s creativity with beautifully composed seafood, premium steaks, and vibrant vegetable-forward dishes highlighting ingredients grown throughout the islands. Fresh catch selections, expertly prepared with bright citrus and island herbs, sat alongside comforting favorites elevated with Hawaiian flair. Our work was cut out for us in deciding between the abundant options of shareable appetizers (edamame and mushroom dumplings, a variety of sushi rolls and Kagoshima A5 Wagyu Beef Katsu), colorful salads featuring locally grown produce and decadent desserts.
Worth special mention are the Pūlehu Steak Selection and Yuzu Miso Cod. The first is flame grilled and enhanced with Hawaiian salt, roasted garlic, miso mushroom medley, fried leeks, port wine jus while the latter literally melts in your mouth flavorfully prepared with miso glaze, broiled, swiss chard, finger limes, watermelon radish, ginger scallion pesto.
The combination of exceptional cuisine, gracious service, and a relaxed atmosphere makes The Kini Room more than just a hotel restaurant – it’s a true gathering place.
PEARL HARBOR
Some attractions entertain. Others stay with you forever.
Visiting Pearl Harbor and the USS Arizona Memorial was easily one of the most meaningful experiences of our trip. As someone of Japanese heritage, I approached the visit with a mixture of curiosity and emotion. Standing above the resting place of so many servicemen offered a powerful reminder of the human cost of war.
Sharing that experience with my teenagers made it even more significant. Watching history come alive beyond the pages of a textbook sparked conversations our family will remember long after this vacation. The memorial isn’t simply a stop on a sightseeing itinerary – it’s an opportunity for reflection, understanding, and appreciation.
CIRQUE DU SOLEIL ‘AUANA
Our family are huge fans of Cirque du Soleil – both the residencies in Las Vegas and the touring shows that come to Orange County each year. But I have to say, Cirque du Soleil’s ‘Auana – the first resident Cirque du Soleil production in Hawai’i – was an exceptionally original, spectacular show blending the company’s signature acrobatics with Hawaiian storytelling, music, hula, and traditions in a way that feels both innovative and deeply respectful of the islands’ rich cultural heritage.
From gravity-defying aerial performances to breathtaking feats of strength and artistry, every scene were completely captivated. My teens were mesmerized by the incredible athleticism, while grandma raved about how the production beautifully wove together Hawaiian legends and history with world-class theatrical performance. It was one of those rare shows that truly appeals across generations, leaving all of us talking about our favorite moments long after the curtain came down.
Pairing an exceptional dinner at The Kini Room with an evening at ‘Auana provided the perfect reminder that Waikīkī offers so much more than beautiful beaches. Between outstanding dining and Broadway-caliber entertainment infused with the spirit of aloha, capturing the magic of modern Hawai’i.
POLYNESIAN CULTURAL CENTER
More than just an attraction, a visit to the Polynesian Cultural Center is an immersive journey through the cultures and traditions of Polynesia.
We wandered through authentic island villages, watched skilled artisans at work, and learned about customs that have been preserved for generations. Even our teenagers, who are usually difficult to impress, found themselves completely engaged.
As the sun began to set, we gathered for the Ali’i Luau, where Hawaiian hospitality takes center stage. A delicious feast of island favorites (and I do mean feast with a dizzying array of options including favorites like kalua pork, lomi lomi salmon, teriyaki chicken, fresh tropical fruits, poi, and a variety of traditional Hawaiian side dishes), accompanied by traditional music, dance, and storytelling, created one of those evenings where no one reached for their phone because everyone was simply enjoying the moment.
The perfect finale was Ha: Breath of Life, an extraordinary theatrical production featuring breathtaking choreography, fire knife dancing, music, and spectacular special effects. The emotional story celebrating love, family, and resilience was easily one of the finest live performances we’ve ever experienced.
DUKE’S WAIKĪKĪ
Perched on the golden sands of Waikiki Beach, Duke’s Waikiki captures the laid-back spirit of Hawaii with breathtaking ocean views, warm island hospitality, and a menu inspired by local flavors (think fresh-caught fish, prime steaks and tropical cocktails). Named after legendary Hawaiian waterman Duke Kahanamoku, this iconic beachfront restaurant is a favorite for both visitors and locals seeking an authentic taste of paradise.
With its open-air ambiance, friendly service, and front-row views of Diamond Head and Waikiki’s rolling surf, Duke’s Waikiki is one of Honolulu’s most beloved dining destinations and a must-visit for anyone looking to experience the beauty, culture, and flavors of Hawaii. Speaking of which, you’ll definitely want to sample Duke’s signature Hula Pie made with macadamia nut ice cream stacked high on a scrumptious chocolate cookie crust.
ALA MOANA CENTER
As the world’s largest open-air shopping center, Ala Moana Center is a shopping Nirvana combining luxury retailers, popular national brands, and uniquely Hawaiian boutiques all in one beautiful tropical setting. While the teenagers searched for their favorite stores, the grownups enjoyed strolling through the landscaped courtyards, and I found fun, locally made gifts to bring home.
WAIKIKI AQUARIUM
Home to colorful tropical reef fish, graceful jellyfish, Hawaiian monk seals, and living coral exhibits, this historic aquarium invites visitors of all ages to discover the remarkable ecosystems of the Pacific. Its oceanfront setting and thoughtfully curated displays make it an easy stop for families, nature lovers, and anyone looking to experience another side of O’ahu.
LEONARD’S BAKERY
Ask almost anyone about must-try treats in Honolulu, and Leonard’s Bakery will almost certainly make the list.
For our part, we literally made a daily stop for their famous malasadas – light, fluffy Portuguese doughnuts served warm and coated in sugar. Filled with everything from custard to haupia (Hawaiian coconut pudding), they disappeared almost as quickly as they arrived.
Traveling with three generations reminded me that the best vacations aren’t measured by how many attractions you check off a list. They’re measured by the moments shared together. Hawaii gave us all history lessons, cultural discoveries, unforgettable performances, incredible meals, and countless opportunities to slow down and simply enjoy each other’s company.
For our family, Oahu wasn’t just another vacation destination – it was the perfect place to create memories that will span generations.
