Oahu
Andrew & I went back to Oahu, Hawaii for an early anniversary trip. We were both itching to go back, and honestly, it was a much-needed getaway. I broke up the places we visited into four categories because I felt it was an easier way to determine if it was worth visiting or not. If you want more info feel free to look from our previous trip!
We need to go back:
Giovanni's Shrimp Truck: Many people complain about how overhyped this is and suggest eating at a different joint. I have no idea what they are talking about because it's delicious. We went to a couple of different garlic shrimp places but this was our favorite still. That butter hits differently here. The line is usually long at Halweiwa but we've only been at Kahuku and it's always a short line.
Foodlands Farms Ala Moana: Our favorite poke spot. The poke was fresh and there was a large assortment to choose from. We got Shoyu Ahi Tuna & Spicy Salmon
Leonard's Bakery: This tasted so much better on our second trip! Make sure to eat it while it's fresh & hot.
Musubi Care Iyasume: You can't go wrong with musubi & onigiri, especially as a snack on the beach
Marugame Udon: This has different locations but something about seeing that long line makes you want to eat it at this location more.
Diamond Head Market & Grill: Surf & Turf Plate is so solid and the Lemon Crunch cake is a must.
Tonkatsu Tamafuji: Make a reservation a month in advance.
Island Vintage Shaved Ice: There was a long line for this so we decided to give it a try. This shaved ice had mochi and frozen yogurt. I got Green Island (Green Tea) and Andrew got Heavenly Lilikoi and both were really good! Wish they made all shaved ice like this.
Turtle Bay: We stayed here for our honeymoon but not this trip. Wished we had because they recently renovated it and it looks amazing! It is nice to grab a drink & enjoy the sunset.
We could eat/do this again:
Wagaya: Garlic Tsukemen
Ono Seafood: Spicy Ahi & Shoyu Poke Bowl
O'kims: This place has a different take on Korean food. The menu changes frequently so there's always something new.
Ginza Bairin Tonkatsu & Yoshoku Bistro: Make a reservation in advance. I got the Chicken Katsu which was delicious. Andrew got the pricier dish Kurobuta Katsu dish but was a bit disappointed because it was mushy.
Royal Hawaiian Golf Club: Golf course that had breathtaking scenic views! We rented our clubs at Hawaii Golf Club Rentals. If you ask the rental place to book your tee time at Royal Hawaiian then they can get you a discounted local rate.
Banzai Pipeline: Depending on the season (especially winter time) the waves are really big so it can be dangerous. I do like how this beach was quieter & less touristy.
Good to try once but we don't need to go back:
Helena's Hawaiian Food: The short ribs are the only thing I really enjoyed.
Off the Hooke Poke Market: Area was out of the way and we got there too late so most of the poke was out. If you go get the 9 platter.
Kualoa Ranch (Jurassic Park): ATV around the Kualoa mountain range
Aloha Table: Known for Loco Moco
We wished we had more time & stomach space:
Ted's Bakery: Garlic Shrimp
Aloha Shrimp: Spicy Lemon Shrimp
Diamond Head Trail & Lanikai Pillbox: We were going to hike these but decided we'd rather eat & relax.