Him: Catch a flight to LA for the last day of my business trip, then we’ll drive down to San Diego for a low key anniversary week.
Me: Sounds perfect.
(Arrives in LA…wakes up the next morning to a wake up call from the front desk saying, “Happy Anniversary, enjoy your trip to Hawaii”)
Me: Looks at him perplexed explaining what the front desk representative said.
Him: Big smile while handing me our Tickets to Hawaii!! “Surprise!!”
Me: All the tears, kisses, and smiles.
That’s how we ended up in Hawaii for our 7th wedding anniversary. To say I was surprised is an understatement. My husband is the most romantic person I know. He loves surprising me with major smile moments, and I can’t get enough!
Where to stay on the Island of Oahu
Hawaii is filled with beautiful ocean front resorts and hotels. There are also several private properties for rent that are off the tourist path. My husband decided to book a cute little Air BnB for our accommodations. We were away from the hustle and bustle of all the tourist activity, in a cute one bedroom surrounded by lush and beautiful landscaping. Every morning we had breakfast on the back balcony and watched peacocks and chickens run around. The privacy was just what we needed to bring in our 7th wedding anniversary.
How To Celebrate Your Wedding Anniversary in Oahu
Immerse yourself in the history and culture of Polynesia. We spent a full day at the Polynesian Culture Center enjoying live shows, visiting the islands of Polynesia (Hawaii, Aotearoa, Fiji, Tahiti, Tonga, and Samoa), experiencing a Luau, and chatting with other visitors from around the world.
One of the best shows takes place on the river that runs through the the center of the property. Each Island Nation comes out on a raft with dancers dressed in vibrant traditional garb.
Another highlight of the PCC was visiting each of the Island Nations. When we got to Tongo, once the show was over, the elder stuck around and talked to us for over an hour about the history and culture of the Island. He shared information dating back before the continental divide and the connection between Polynesia and Africa. It was an absolute honor to sit amongst him and soak up so much knowledge. Learning is my favorite part of travel!
Don’t even get me started on the Luau. I was invited on stage to learn some dance moves, and as stiff as I am, I had a blast. Watching the Roast pig ceremony was super cool and the food was yummy.
Definitely put this experience on your itinerary! You can book your visit here.
Swim With Sharks – Galapagos and Sandbar sharks. Next to the time I went skydiving in Toronto on a girls trip, this was the most exhilarating thing I’ve ever done. I couldn’t believe Damien booked this excursion. To know him, is to know his idea of vacation is mostly lounging around, not jumping into the ocean with sharks. This is right up my alley; I’m all about adventure and a little risk. Pro tip: if you suffer from motion sickness like I do, definitely take your medication of choice before going out to sea. Interesting enough, it wasn’t the boat ride that did me in, it was the banging around in the cage. After my second dive, it hit me all at once. Still, I can’t wait to do it again.
Hike to high heights for beautiful views. We took on Crouching Lion, which was pretty moderate for the most part, but difficult in some spots. The trail is well marked, and you’ll experience beautiful views even before you reach the peak.
Go cliff jumping into perfect blue waters. I have to admit, as much as I love adventure, cliff jumping always gives me the heebie jeebies. But, once I hit the water I immediately want to do it again. Waimea Bay Rock Jump was the perfect height (not too high), and an easy climb to the top of the cliff.
Enjoy a 13 course sushi meal that will make your palette dance. If you love fresh sushi, you have to check out Sushi Sasabune. Get the Omakase Chef Special. It’s a thirteen course meal curated by the chef. You won’t know what you’re getting until it hits your table. But trust me, you’ll love every single course! And, if by some chance you get full, you can stop at any time, and they’ll only charge you for what you’ve eaten. Enjoy and just thank me later, lol.
Of course there are so many things to see and do in Hawaii, chief among them being relaxing beach time, but if you like to DO on your vacations as much as I do, make sure to check out the recommendations above. You’ll learn, have adventure, eat good, and smile the whole way.
Happy Travels!
Beautiful!! Thank you for the wonderful tips.
I’m so glad you enjoyed! Thanks for stopping by!