In an effort to visit all 7 continents before we turn 30, my best friends and I decide to knock off Australia off the list this year. The easiest way to do it? Stop over in Hawaii of course!

Best greeting ever from the boyfriend:

First stop? Waiola Shave Ice!

We also tried the Pig and the Lady in Chinatown that night and it was delicious!

We also scored a sweet drink deal to the Dragon Upstairs which was playing some cool live music, but jet lag got the best of me and I opted to call it an earlier night.

Day 2 – Acai bowls, Diamond Head, poke bowls, my favorite beach, & Shokudo

One of the best acai bowls I’ve ever had is from the Diamond Head Cove Health Bar (their honey is SO good).

We then did a quick hike at Diamond Head – paved all the way and pretty easy/touristy kind of hike.

Then we fueled up with poke bowl from Paina Cafe

And of course had to get the honey toast at Shokudo later that night.

Day 3 – 678, Waikiki Beach, Holoholo, & The M

Had some delicious (and a very cool experience) at 678 for some Korean food

And caught a few rays at Waikiki

And later tried the delicious new food at Holoholo

Slow Cooked Brisket Braised in a Sweet Sake Marinade and Finished with a Homemade BBQ Sauce

Deep Fried Pork Ribs

Sushi Tower

Hawaiian Poutine

We also went to the M the night, which was. . . an interesting experience to say the least.

Day 4 – Yama’s Fish Market, Waimanalo Beach, Hanauma Bay, and the MW

Started off our last full day on the right foot with some kalua pig and poke from Yama’s Fish Market

We also tried to get as much sun as we could get at Waimanalo and Hanauma Bay.

But my favorite place we ate (probably out of every place during the trip) was at The M. We had the 5 course tasting menu with drink pairings and everything was absolutely delicious.

But of course, we had to take a selfie.

Chef’s choice appetizers (beet salad, ahi poke, fried chicken, and ceviche) mochi crusted opakpaka, kauai shrimp with ravioli, oxtail stew and rice, and MW candy bar for dessert.

Lots of eating, lots of just enjoying the great weather with great company. Nothing beats Hawaii! Nothing.