Aloha Waikiki, HOW ARE YA?

With a reputation as a summer paradise, Hawaii provided the perfect getaway for PHIL (PJ) TAYLOR. He reflects on his holiday at this ‘hot spot’ with partner, Janine Hickmore.

Holiday snaps

Inever tire of gazing across Waikiki Beach (in Honolulu on the island of Oahu) and the bay with Diamond Head looming as the magnificent backdrop. People from many countries frolic in the reliable sunshine, in all shapes and sizes and dialects, in their thousands. Thirty degrees Celsius and not a cloud in the sky made for eight days in paradise.

The yacht catamarans beached in front of the Royal Hawaiian, Outrigger Waikiki and Moana Surfrider Hotels do a roaring sailing trade, as do the people hiring recliners and umbrellas. We parked ourselves on the sand, in front of hotels and the legendary Duke’s Bar and Restaurant, for four-six hours a day – while I like some palm tree shade, Janine is a sun goddess! Between regular applications of Hawaiian Tropic factor 30, there was always time for a dip. Sea turtles in the waves is the first change we noticed when touching down on Waikiki’s sizzling sands. Three years since Janine and I were last on this world-famous beach it was a privilege to holiday in a, literally, hot global destination. We’ve seen turtles on previous trips – usually further out near the reefs and breaks where surfers, paddle-boarders and outriggers catch their rides – so being able to see them up close this time was amazing.

During our first swim, which soothed body and soul, up popped a wide-eyed turtle. A lasting glance of its patterned shell and flippers ‘a-flappin’ followed before it dove down again for seaweed on a small reef 30 metres from where the waves were washing up on shore.

“It’s a turtle!” we exclaimed enthusiastically. A nearby swimmer said: “You don’t want one to bite you. They don’t let go and it hurts!” I had no intention of patting a sea turtle – it’s frowned upon anyway – and I just enjoyed watching it bob in the tide; Janine is more inquisitive, however, and was able to get a little closer – she reckons turtles are attracted to floral bathing suits.

Watching these prehistoric sea creatures going about their business in their habitat, amongst a lot of human activity, was an amazing experience. Swimmers and surfers come and go from the water, sailing catamarans and outriggers too, but the turtles aren’t bothered. It’s both beautiful and bewildering to observe this example of nature at its finest.

Escaping to Hawaii was a relief due to the pandemic. Janine found a good-value flights and hotel package through Luxury Escapes. Resort fees, breakfasts and cocktails were all included. Staying at the Outrigger Reef Waikiki Beach Resort Hotel, by the US Army Museum and park, gave us a great vantage point for the Friday night fireworks by the Hilton Hawaiian Village. This is a tradition that’s survived Covid-era cost-cutting. The Outrigger is welcoming, friendly with e cient service at its laid-back best.

For the most part, our Waikiki break involved eight days of beach, eating, drinking and shopping, mostly in moderation, apart from the swimming and sunbathing. The Waikiki vibe quicky becomes the ‘soul purpose’ of every waking moment.

Pancakes in the morning (in the shade by the pool) were often followed by wandering in the humid sea breeze, and enjoying honey walnut shrimp, Kona Co ee, Kona Beer, American cheeseburgers, Maitais Mojitos Blue Hawaiians and (of course!) pineapple with everything!

Then there’s the music. Duke’s Waikiki features some of the finest Oahu musicians. During one visit, Stephen Inglis delighted with his sweet Hawaiian takes on Bob Dylan, Dr John, Chuck Berry and Grateful Dead, as well as his own songs and traditional tunes. Then, the legendary Henry Kapono (Duke’s on Sunday is one of his most famous songs) and his band grooved everyone until sundown. With Waikiki Beach as a backdrop and sand in our toes, we were in heaven!

Mahalo, Waikiki. We can’t wait to see you again soon!

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Nestled in the calm waters of the Manukau Harbour, just off the coast of Karaka, Pararēkau Island is truly a unique location. Standing on the island, feeling the soft ocean breeze, It’s hard to believe you’re just 3 minutes drive to the motorway, and 33 kilometres from Auckland’s CBD.

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