We are back. Oahu, HI

After miles of swimming, walking, driving (as well as and flying ;o) we are back full of energy, happiness and wonderful memories!!

As the third-largest island in the Hawaiian chain, Oahu has 112 miles of coastline but is only 30 miles ay its widest point and 60 miles long. Since compass directions can be confusing on the Islands, so it’s helpful to use local terms: makai (toward the sea), mauka (toward the mountains), Diamond Head (toward Diamond Head) and Ewa (away from Diamond Head).

 

WAIKIKI

Such fun and glitzy place. We loved the convenience of being a few minutes away from the ocean and start a day with an early morning swim. Walk able distance to attractions, shopping, dining as well as to Seattle’s Best Coffee was also gladly appreciated ;o)

   

Urban Waikiki:

 

 

KUALOA COUNTRY FAIR & ALL GIRLS RODEO

Third Annual Kualoa Country Fair – nor that “scheduled” activity, but it was such fun place to visit.

Kristin fell in love with horse’s “legwarmers” ;o)

 

 

NORTH SHORE

Such a different world from Waikiki and the lush Windward side. We were told that surfers around the world dream of riding the epic waves that crash here every winter.

 

 

LYON ARBORETUM

A living museum of rare and endangered tropical plants at the edge of downtown Honolulu, a collection of plants collected for over 150 years. In the Main Terrace, the oldest part of the garden, plants date back to 1853.

If you know me, you will not be surprised by the number of pictures below. I’m totally crazy on tropical plants, not to mention that have successfully adopted some of them here, in Seattle area. What an eye candy!!

 

 

 

 

 

Some fun signs were spotted during walking…

 

Evening.

 

 

WINDWARD OAHU
This is the lush, green side of the island, bordered by the striking Ko’olau Mountains and beaches with soft, white sand.

Our absolute favorite part of Oahu and a reason to rent a car for a several days ;o)

 

Oahu Water Park located in Kapolei, Hawaii is one of the largest family water parks in the world, covering over 25 acres.

 

Secrets of Hawaii: Kailua Beach Park and Lanikai Beach

Kailua Beach Park offers a picture perfect outdoor experience. One of the best beach on Oahu, the fine sandy beach is protect by Kailua Bay which makes for gentle waves. A perfect place for kayaking and other watersports.

 

 

Lanikai means "heavenly sea" in the Hawaiian language. And at Lanikai Beach that is exactly what you will find.

Its only about half a mile (800 m) long, but it’s one of the most scenic stretches of coastline on Oahu and has gained international fame as America’s number one beach for several years running. The only way to reach the beach is through small public access paths in this upscale neighborhood of Lanikai.

Our absolute favorite beach for relaxing on the unbelievable soft sand (which Kristin qualified as “flour”), taking a swim in such jewel-like greenish blue clear and warm water as well and enjoying the modeling (see sneak peek below ;o)

 

PEARL HARBOR

 

 

 

Right before back to Seattle, we got small "training" rain and a double rainbow.

 

… And our tradition photo:

If you are curious about what “out tradition photo” means, below is the explanation:

  

 

Yeah, that’s all! Oh my, with TONS of new ideas and things I’m dying to try, I have no idea how to do what is already on my schedule first ;o)

But at least I’m back and will reply to all your emails first of all. Also I have some new designs to share with you and a little contest, stay tuned!

Alla Koval Designs