Kualoa Ranch

Wedding Day

Aloha, Friends and Family! Welcome to our wedding website—your one-stop shop for all things&nbsp;us. Here, you’ll find answers to all your questions about our big day, from logistics to love stories. Peek at our photos, dive into the tale of how we met, and stay tuned for updates as we get closer to&nbsp;the day. Mark your calendars:&nbsp;06.16.26&nbsp;is the date, and yes, the rumors are true—we’re tying the knot in the tropical paradise of&nbsp;Hawai’i! If you’re going to attend a wedding, why not do it island-style? Pack your bags, grab your favorite aloha shirt, and get ready to celebrate with us in Oahu. Let’s make this a party to remember! And while we love your little ones, our wedding day will be an adults-only celebration. We completely understand if this requires some extra planning and wanted to let you know early to make accommodations. However, please feel free to bring your kids along to enjoy the rest of your trip! We can’t wait to see you there! 🌴✨

Our Wedding

What began as a fleeting encounter, a single night that was never meant to extend beyond the moment, soon blossomed into something unexpected. What was meant to be a one-night experience transformed into a lasting bond, as we discovered a deeper connection that neither of us had anticipated. In the end, we found ourselves not just together for a time, but for a lifetime.

07.28.23

We’ll never forget our first date. Dinner at the Uptown Grill, sitting across from each other, we both felt like the luckiest girl in the world. If we could have stopped time, we would have stayed in that moment forever, just soaking in the perfection of that night. The night everything changed for us. And it was nothing short of magic. Neither of us was searching for a relationship — it just happened, like it was meant to. Then came the texts, the second night, more texts, and suddenly, we were getting to know each other in a way that felt effortless, yet extraordinary. And then, the feelings—oh, the feelings. Everything we feel is so powerful, it often leaves us at a loss for words. Long-distance is hard but this, we promised each other: we are in this, fully and completely. We will give every part of us to make what we have work, to make it last, because what we share is too precious to let slip away. We’ve given the other something we didn’t even realize we were missing—we’ve given each other’s heart its full reason to beat again.

08.07.23

Though we had already shared the beautiful words “I love you,” it was on this day that our hearts became one in a new way. It was the day we officially became us. With a sweet and tender exchange, we asked each other, “Will you be my girlfriend?”—a moment so simple, yet so deeply meaningful. And with the softest, most heartfelt “yes,” our love story truly began. This was not just the start of a relationship; it was the beginning of a lifetime of love, laughter, and dreams intertwined.

08.23.23

MJs POV: I took the most beautiful girl on a magical sunset helicopter ride over the Chicago skyline, the city glowing beneath us as the world seemed to pause. After being surrounded by endless skies and breathtaking views, we landed on the tarmac, and I led her down a red carpet to a lit up “MARRY ME” sign. In that perfect moment, I asked her to spend forever with me—and she said YES! My heart soared higher than the helicopter ever could.

08.09.24

MJs POV: It was an ordinary morning, one I’ll never forget—a moment so unexpected, yet so profoundly beautiful. You walked into the room, your eyes full of love, and said you couldn’t offer me a helicopter ride, but instead, you had something far more meaningful to give: your grandmother’s ring. I can’t recall all your exact words because the second I realized what you were offering, my emotions overwhelmed me. I cried—ugly cried—because I know how deeply you loved her, how much she meant to you, and now you were entrusting me with something so sacred, so priceless. In that moment, I felt the weight of your love and your trust, and it meant everything. That ring isn’t just a symbol; it’s a piece of your heart, and the fact that you chose me to carry it is a gift I’ll treasure forever.

08.31.24 Our Story

Photos

Wedding Party

Q + A

Sleep, Surf & Celebrate 🏝️

<a href="https://be.synxis.com/?Hotel=45091&amp;Chain=5173&amp;arrive=06/14/2026&amp;depart=06/20/2026&amp;rate=2606MJMARM" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Oasis Hotel Waikiki Room Block</a> Additionally, feel free to browse this <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/14Oh0ugKX95BrGFAeK6zOCcfI2Rdg-lrM/view?usp=drive_link" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">pamphlet</a>

Travel

How to Make a Reservation for the USS Arizona MemorialReservations for the USS Arizona Memorial Program are free and can only be made online through&nbsp;<a href="https://www.recreation.gov/ticket/233338/ticket/16" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Recreation.gov.</a>&nbsp;The first-come, first-served ticket distribution program has been discontinued. Limited standby seating may be available, but it cannot be guaranteed, especially during peak visitation times (Spring Break, Summer, Thanksgiving, and Winter Break).

Pearl Harbor National Memorial

Dole Plantation provides enjoyable activities for the entire family, including the Pineapple Express Train Tour, the Plantation Garden Tour, and the Pineapple Garden Maze. Also popular are informational displays and presentations, as well as our plantation country store offering a wide variety of Dole Plantation gifts, local favorites, foods and refreshments including the world-famous Dole Soft Serve! And, before you leave you can purchase fresh pineapple to take home.

Dole Plantation

The Byodo-In Temple, located at the foot of the Ko’olau Mountains in Valley of the Temples Memorial Park, welcomes people of all faiths to worship, meditate or simply appreciate its beauty and history as a non-practicing Buddhist temple. Built in 1963, the Byodo-In Temple is a Hawaii state landmark and one of the states’s best kept secrets. O’ahu’s Byodo-In Temple represents a smaller scale replica of the almost 1,000-year old Byodo-In Temple in Uji, Japan, which is a United Nations World Heritage Site.

Byodo-In Temple

Hanauma Bay is Closed Mondays &amp; Tuesdays Do I need to make a reservations??If you have your own transportation and plan to get to the park on your own 48-Hour advanced reservations Start at 7am daily and are REQUIRED to enter Visit the Honolulu Parks &amp; Recreation&nbsp;<a href="https://pros8.hnl.info/hanauma-bay" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">website</a>&nbsp;for ticket reservations

Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve

Polynesian Cultural Center&nbsp;brings to life the spirit of Polynesia through its villages, luau, and evening show.

Polynesian Cultural Center

The Diamond Head Trail is Hawaiʻi’s most popular hike!Distance (Roundtrip): 1.8 miles / 2.9 kmElevation Gain: ~500 ft. / 152 m Visitors/ Non-Hawaiʻi Residents - All non-residents wishing to park within the Diamond Head Crater must have an advanced reservation.Book Here: <a href="https://href.li/?https://gostateparks.hawaii.gov/diamondhead" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Diamond Head Parking Reservations</a>

Diamond Head Crater Trailhead

Oahu's Best Tours &amp; Activities: UTV Raptor Tour, Jurassic Adventure Tour, Movie Sites &amp; Ranch Tour, and more Kualoa is a 4,000-acre private nature reserve and working cattle ranch, as well as a popular visitor attraction and filming location on the windward coast of Oʻahu.

Waimea Valley’s botanical garden includes 52 themed gardens and is the home to over 5000 documented types of tropical and subtropical plants including native Hawaiian plants and globally endangered species. Waterfall StatusSwimming at Waimea falls is dependent on daily waterfall conditions. Lifeguards make the swim call for the day at 9am.Call (808) 638-7766 for swimming status.*Hours are subject to change. About the walkThe trail to Waimea Falls is about 3/4 of a mile and takes approximately 30 minutes. It is paved the entire way, with gentle hills. There are several gravel paths off the main corridor, for more adventurous walkers to explore all our botanical garden collections.

Waimea Valley

A quaint historic&nbsp;town&nbsp;on Oahu's North Shore, where you'll find a variety of local boutiques, gift shops, surf shops, art galleries, and more.

Haleʻiwa Town Center

CLIMB Works Keana Farms is a 2.5-hour guided zipline tour that includes Oahu’s longest ziplines ranging from 500 feet to nearly half a mile long. Participants explore a working agricultural farm on&nbsp;8 world-class dual lines, 2 rappels, 3 sky bridges, a floating staircase, a fun UTV adventure&nbsp;to the ridgetop and other unique surprises. Along the way you’ll learn about Hawaii’s rich history and culture while taking in constant panoramic ocean and mountain views of Oahu’s famous North Shore.

CLIMB Works Keana Farms Zipline Tour

Embark on an unforgettable journey with us at Hawaii Shark Encounters, just 3 miles off Oahu’s fabled North Shore. Our&nbsp;<a href="https://hawaiisharkencounters.com/shark-cage-diving/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Hawaii shark tours</a>&nbsp;offer a unique opportunity to witness various shark species in their natural ocean habitat. Our cage, equipped with Plexiglass windows, provides a safe and crystal-clear viewing experience of Oahu’s sharks.

Hawaii Shark Encounters

Explore Diamond Head on this fun-filled sailing adventure! Set sail on the high seas and enjoy complimentary beverages of all kinds, great views of Waikiki, and maybe a splash or two!

Na Hoku 3 Catamaran (Waikiki Beach)

ʻIolani Palace is a living restoration of a proud Hawaiian national identity and is recognized as the spiritual and physical multicultural epicenter of Hawaiʻi. Built in 1882 by King Kalākaua, ʻIolani Palace was the home of Hawaiʻi’s last reigning monarchs and served as the official royal residence and the residence of the Kingdom’s political and social life until the overthrow of the monarchy in 1893. Registered as a National Historic Landmark since 1962 and the only official royal residence in the United States, the Palace is one of the most recognizable buildings in Hawaiʻi. Meticulously restored to its former grandeur, ʻIolani Palace tells of a time when their Majesties, King Kalākaua and his sister and successor, Queen Liliʻuokalani walked the grand halls.

Iolani Palace

Honolulu Helicopter Tours

O’ahu Tours and Rentals on the North Shore of Hawaii Fully set up with a large selection of quality SUPs, Kayaks, and surfboards available in a beautiful location with a private, safe launch, ideal for beginners and experts alike. Open 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., 7 days a week.

Blue Planet Adventure Co

The only Kayak shop walking distance to Kailua Beach! Specialize in:<a href="https://www.kailuabeachadventures.com/kailua-lanikai-kayak-rentals" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Kayak Rentals in Kailua Bay, Lanikai Beach</a>, &amp; <a href="https://www.kailuabeachadventures.com/kayaking-chinamans-hat-mokolii-kualoa" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Mokolii (Chinaman’s Hat)</a><a href="https://www.kailuabeachadventures.com/kailua-lanikai-kayak-tours" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Guided Kayak Tours to Flat Island and the Mokulua Islands</a><a href="https://www.kailuabeachadventures.com/snorkel-rental-oahu" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Snorkel Rentals</a>, <a href="https://www.kailuabeachadventures.com/kailua-paddle-board-rentals" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Stand Up Paddle (SUP) Rentals</a>, <a href="https://www.kailuabeachadventures.com/paddle-boarding-lessons-oahu" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">SUP Lessons</a>, <a href="https://www.kailuabeachadventures.com/kailua-lanikai-bike-rentals" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Bike Rentals</a>, <a href="https://www.kailuabeachadventures.com/body-boogie-board-rentals" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Boogie Boarding</a>, <a href="https://www.kailuabeachadventures.com/surfboard-rentals" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Surfboards</a>, <a href="https://www.kailuabeachadventures.com/beach-chair-rentals" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Beach Chair and umbrella Rentals</a>

Kailua Beach Adventures

Oahu Dolphin Tour and Turtle Snorkeling&nbsp;tour ﻿Though you may be able to spot dolphins from land on a clear day, or you might get lucky and see some while snorkeling at a public beach, a boat cruise is without a doubt the best way to get the true dolphin experience in Hawaii. Here’s why: From land, it’s not possible to get as close to dolphins as you would on a boat. Spinner dolphins enjoy ‘surfing’ along the waves created by a boat, so it’s very common to see dolphins cruise right next to a boat.

Dolphins and You

Aloha and Welcome to Sea Life Park Enjoy exciting experiences, unique exhibits, extraordinary animal encounters, and more at Sea Life Park Hawaiʻi. As Oʻahu’s premier educational and interactive marine attraction, Sea Life Park offers countless opportunities to explore the wonders of Hawaiʻi’s marine life.&nbsp;Create special memories and photos to last a lifetime during an exclusive&nbsp;<a href="https://www.sealifeparkhawaii.com/plan-your-visit/things-to-do/animal-encounters" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Animal Encounter</a>, where you not only get to observe but truly connect with your favorite ocean animals.

Sea Life Park Hawaii

Things to Do

Registry

Breakfast/Brunch

<a href="http://cafe-kaila-hawaii.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Cafe Kaila</a><a href="https://cinnamons808.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Cinnamons</a><a href="https://www.kokoheadcafe.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Koko Head Cafe</a><a href="https://www.clover.com/online-ordering/mitsuken-honolulu" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Mitsukens</a><a href="https://www.halekulani.com/dining/sunday-brunch-at-orchids/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Orchids</a><a href="https://www.deckwaikiki.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">DECK.</a><a href="https://www.creampothawaii.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Cream Pot</a><a href="https://sweetescafe.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Sweet E’s Cafe</a><a href="https://www.scratchkitchenhi.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Scratch Kitchen</a>

Lunch

<a href="https://timhowanusa.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Tim Ho Wan</a> (Dim Sum)<a href="https://www.helenashawaiianfood.com/index.html" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Helena’s Hawaiian Food</a><a href="https://www.waiaholepoifactory.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Waiahole Poi Factory</a> (Hawaiian - North Shore)<a href="https://www.chubbiesburgers.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Chubbies Burgers</a><a href="https://konabrewinghawaii.com/come-visit#hawaii-kai" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Kona Brewing Co</a>

Lunch/Dinner

<a href="https://www.genkoreanbbq.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Gen Korean BBQ House</a><a href="https://www.monkeypodkitchen.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Monkeypod Kitchen</a> (Casual eatery)<a href="https://www.unclebosrestaurant.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Uncle Bo’s</a> (Pupus)<a href="https://dorakusushi.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Doraku’s</a> (Sushi)<a href="https://www.joleneshawaii.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Jolene’s Market</a> (Fresh and exciting takes on classic sandwiches)<a href="https://nicospier38.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Nico’s Pier 38</a> (Seafood)

Dinner

<a href="https://beluga.kitchen/m/bDLY93?utm_source=google_profile&amp;utm_medium=organic" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Cafe Duck Butt</a> (Korean)<a href="https://www.merrimanshawaii.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Merriman’s</a> (Seafood, Regional)<a href="https://thepigandthelady.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">The Pig &amp; The Lady</a> (Vietnamese)<a href="https://luckybellyhi.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Lucky Belly</a> (Ramen)<a href="https://www.fetehawaii.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Fête</a> (Seasonal New American)<a href="https://hyswaikiki.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Hy’s Steak House</a><a href="https://www.mitchssushi.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Mitch’s Sushi</a><a href="https://www.noithaicuisine.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Noi Thai Cuisine</a><a href="https://opalthai.has.restaurant/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Opal Thai</a><a href="https://www.istanbulhawaii.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Istanbul</a> (Mediterranean)<a href="https://www.cafemaharani.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Cafe Maharani</a> (Indian)<a href="https://jdolans.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">JJ Dolans</a> (Pizza)<a href="https://michelshawaii.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Michel’s</a> (French)<a href="https://53bythesea.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">53 By The Sea</a> (Seafood)<a href="https://www.blindox.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Blind Ox</a> (Speakeasy)<a href="https://www.google.com/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.yelp.com/biz/ginza-won-restaurant-honolulu&amp;ved=2ahUKEwi089XYh5WKAxUUIDQIHYm4AAYQFnoECEMQAQ&amp;usg=AOvVaw1Uyc07ttohDLHQdJSujSwu" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Ginza Won</a> (Korean)<a href="http://www.mikawonkorean.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Mikawon</a> (Korea - where BTS went to)<a href="https://livestocktavern.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Livestock Tavern</a> (American)<a href="https://www.haleiwajoes.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Haleiwa Joe’s</a> (Seafood &amp; Steak)<a href="https://www.royyamaguchi.com/roys-hawaiikai" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">The Original Roy’s in Hawaii Kai</a> (Hawaiian fusion fare)

Special Mentions

<a href="https://leonardshawaii.com/home/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Leonard’s Bakery</a> (Malasadas)<a href="https://www.cowcowstea.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">CowCow’s Tea</a><a href="https://www.hanatea808.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Hana Tea</a> (Boba)<a href="https://www.alohamelt.com/#items" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Aloha Melt</a> (Grilled Cheese)<a href="https://foodland.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Foodland</a> (Super Market - Poke Bowls)<a href="https://www.google.com/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaurant_Review-g2182282-d736565-Reviews-Shrimp_Shack-Punaluu_Oahu_Hawaii.html&amp;ved=2ahUKEwisutSejpWKAxWVFTQIHbs0LuEQFnoECD4QAQ&amp;usg=AOvVaw2yGUN0RukrnIhIWpuxRuI8" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Shrimp Shack</a><a href="https://www.tedsbakery.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Ted’s Bakery</a><a href="https://matsumotoshaveice.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Matsumoto’s</a> (Shave Ice)<a href="https://www.haleiwabowls.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Hale’iwa Bowls</a> (Açaí Bowls)<a href="https://thecorndogco.com/locations-oahu.html" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Corndog Company</a>

Bars

<a href="https://www.hawaiigaybar.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Tapas</a><a href="https://www.wangchungs.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Wang Chungs</a> (Karaoke)<a href="https://www.suziewongshideaway.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Suzie Wongs Hideaway</a><a href="https://www.barleatherapron.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Bar Leather Apron</a><a href="https://www.stagerestauranthawaii.com/location/amuse-wine-bar/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Amuse Wine Bar</a><a href="https://www.skywaikiki.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">SKY Waikiki</a> (Raw &amp; Bar)

Food

<a href="https://avantstay.com/blog/best-beaches-in-oahu/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Waikiki Beach:</a>&nbsp;A famous beach with white sand and blue water&nbsp;<a href="https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g60652-d526149-Reviews-Lanikai_Beach-Kailua_Oahu_Hawaii.html" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Lanikai Beach:</a>&nbsp;Also known as Kaʻōhao Beach, this beach is known for its views of the Mokulua Islands, and is a popular spot for windsurfing and kitesurfing&nbsp;<a href="https://www.celebritycruises.com/blog/best-beaches-in-honolulu#:~:text=Although%20not%20as%20globally%20renowned,from%20the%20nearby%20snack%20stand." rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Ala Moana Beach:</a>&nbsp;A safe beach with a natural reef and an artificial peninsula that keeps waves and currents at bay&nbsp;<a href="https://www.gohawaii.com/islands/oahu/things-to-do/beaches#:~:text=Depot%20Beach%20Park%20is%20a,a%20perfect%20beach%20for%20families." rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Mākaha Beach:</a>&nbsp;A top spot for surfing on Oahu's west coast, where big wave surfing was pioneered&nbsp;<a href="https://www.gohawaii.com/islands/oahu/things-to-do/beaches#:~:text=Depot%20Beach%20Park%20is%20a,a%20perfect%20beach%20for%20families." rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Keawaʻula Beach (Yokohama Beach):</a>&nbsp;A curvy beach with turquoise waters that's good for sunbathing and watching surfers and dolphins&nbsp;<a href="https://www.gohawaii.com/islands/oahu/things-to-do/beaches#:~:text=Depot%20Beach%20Park%20is%20a,a%20perfect%20beach%20for%20families." rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Depot Beach Park:</a>&nbsp;A local favorite with a long stretch of white sand&nbsp;<a href="https://www.gohawaii.com/islands/oahu/things-to-do/beaches#:~:text=Depot%20Beach%20Park%20is%20a,a%20perfect%20beach%20for%20families." rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Kō Olina Resort and Marina:</a>&nbsp;A family-friendly beach with man-made lagoons, parking, restrooms, and showers&nbsp;<a href="https://www.shakaguide.com/article/oahu/beach-north-shore-oahu#:~:text=Oahu&#39;s%20North%20Shore-,Three%20Tables,super%20close%20to%20Shark&#39;s%20Cove!" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Three Tables:</a>&nbsp;A beach with a trio of coral reef formations that's close to Shark's Cove&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=89Mx1vdRBB0&amp;t=34s" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Kyowa Beach:</a>&nbsp;A beach with brilliant blue water that's good for swimming and has some shade from nearby trees&nbsp;<a href="https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attractions-g29222-Activities-c61-t52-Oahu_Hawaii.html" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Kailua Beach Park:</a>&nbsp;A beach with turquoise water, great vistas, and an idyllic setting&nbsp;<a href="https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g2534322-d737422-Reviews-Shark_s_Cove-Pupukea_Oahu_Hawaii.html" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Shark's Cove:</a> A popular snorkeling and scuba diving destination on Oahu's North Shore, Hawaii<a href="https://www.gohawaii.com/islands/oahu/things-to-do/beaches/ehukai-beach-park-banzai-pipeline" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Ehukai Beach Park (Banzai Pipeline):</a> One of the most famous surf spots on the North Shore, this beach is also known as the “Banzai Pipeline” for its barreling waves

Beaches

Halona Blowhole Lookout

The volcanic activity that created the Hawaiian islands makes itself evident in attractions such as this one. When the waves have built up sufficient pressure in the underwater caves, water explodes into the air, reaching astonishing heights. This is one scenic point you won’t want to miss.After you’ve enjoyed the sights at Halona Blowhole Lookout, consider taking a side trip to Eternity Beach. The emerald-and-turquoise water, the jagged volcanic rock, and the lush greenery combine to make this a can’t-miss destination.It’s also home to a vibrant and thriving ecosystem that includes the endangered Hawaiian monk seal and the famed green sea turtle.

Nu’uanu Pali Lookout

Named “pali” meaning "cliff" in Hawaiian, the Pali Lookout is&nbsp;the site of the Battle of Nu'uanu, where in 1795 Kamehameha I won the struggle that finally united O'ahu under his rule. This fierce battle claimed hundreds of soldiers' lives, many of which were forced off the pali's sheer cliffs.

Tantalus Lookout

This is one lookout in Oahu that offers amazing views of downtown Honolulu. From this tranquil hilltop, you’ll also be rewarded with glimpses of Diamond Head Crater – and, if you’re lucky enough to visit at the right time, perhaps a vibrant rainbow or a blazing sunset. You can drive all the way to the top of Mount Tantalus, so there’s no hiking required, but there are some easy hiking trails nearby if you’re feeling energetic.

Lanai Lookout

The drive alone makes this lookout worth a drive from Honolulu or Waikiki. Along with the breathtaking view of the Pacific Ocean, it includes several restaurants and breweries that you won’t want to miss: The Original Roy’s in Hawaii Kai Kona Brewing Company bEASTside Kitchen Lanai Lookout isn’t one of the best-known lookouts in Oahu, but we think it’s a hidden gem. The slate-gray lava rock provides a lovely backdrop to the expanse of sky and the blue-green waves. Note that if you enter “Lanai Lookout” into your GPS, you’ll be directed to the right spot, but the signs leading you there will simply read “Scenic Point.”

Makapu’u Point

Makapu’u Head can be found on the easternmost tip of Oahu’s shores. Backed by sea cliffs over 600 feet tall, this is one of the best lookouts in Oahu. It’s also the place to go if you want to get a look at Manana Island, also known as “Rabbit Island” due to the fact that it was once the site of a rabbit-raising farm. The Makapu’u Lookout is located along the Kalanianaole Highway. Even if you don’t plan to stop – and we highly recommend that you do – this drive should definitely be on your bucket list.

Laie Point

You might recognize the gorgeous Laie Point from the movie,&nbsp;Forgetting Sarah Marshall. In the movie, they hike out to Laie Point. In reality, you can just drive right up. You can’t see Laie Point from the main road. Tucked behind a quiet neighborhood, you have to know what you are looking for because no signs are directing you. Typing Laie Point into your GPS will get you there. Laie Point is a peninsula surrounded by many different rock formations. In the winter, the huge waves crashing on them is an incredible sight. Typing “Laie Point” into Google maps will get you there without a problem. There is not a lot of parking here, either, but since people come and go quickly, you shouldn’t have to wait long for a spot. Don’t park in the residential area.

Quick Stop Scenic Lookouts

Easy Hikes

Diamond Head Trail, best for a volcano hike

Skill level:This is a beginner-friendly hike. Although the stairs can get a bit steep, they don’t pose too much of a challenge. Duration and length:1-2 hours; 1.8 miles out and back Terrain and elevation:This is a short and steep hike that consists of a paved trail and a great number of steps, with around 450 feet of elevation gain in total. Best time to hike:Start early in the morning to beat the crowds. The trail&nbsp;<a href="https://dlnr.hawaii.gov/dsp/parks/oahu/diamond-head-state-monument/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">closes in the afternoon</a>.

Manoa Falls Trail, best for a waterfall hike

Skill level:Easy hike suitable for families. Just make sure to wear hiking shoes because it can get quite slippery. Duration and length:1-2 hours; 1.7 miles out and back Terrain and elevation:The trail used to be quite muddy, but it’s now wider and drier after recent renovations. Best time to hike:After (or during) rain, when the waterfall is at its most powerful, which is most common from January to May. As always, an early start is the best way to avoid crowds.

Lanikai Pillbox Hike, best for a first-time hike in Hawaii

Skill level:Easy to moderate. It will pose a challenge to beginners, but it’s still doable. Best time to hike:At sunrise or sunset because it gets too hot in the middle of the day. Terrain, distance, and elevation:This hike is short and steep. At 1.8 miles with around 650 ft elevation gain, it usually takes hikers anywhere 40-90 minutes, depending on their skill level. Getting there:There are no designated parking spots for this hike; you must park on the street in a residential area. Once there, please be respectful of the locals.

Moderate Hikes

Ka'au Crater, best for a jungle hike

Skill Level:Moderate to advanced Best time to do it:Starting early in the morning is ideal. Since it is a long hike, this will allow for extra time in case something goes south. Terrain, distance and elevation:This hike is muddy, traversing through the rainforest and on slippery rocks. It is a 4.5-mile loop, with an elevation gain of around 1,940 feet. Getting there:The trail starts in a residential area so parking is scarce. Please be mindful of blocking people’s homes or disturbing them with loud talking or music early in their morning. Respect the locals and their homes.

Wiliwilinui Trail, best for an Oahu ridge hike

Skill Level:Moderate. The biggest challenge are the steep steps, which are sometimes slippery or eroded. Best time to do it:It’s best to go early and during weekdays in order to secure a parking pass from the guard at the entrance. Terrain, distance and elevation:The trail consists mostly of dirt and volcanic soil, with quite a lot of steps to reach the ridgeline. In total, it’s 4.7 miles out and back with around 1600 feet of elevation gain, which should take you 3-4 hours to complete.

Strenuous Hikes

Koko Crater Trail, best for a big cardio workout

Skill Level:Strenuous. This hike is made for experienced hikers with endurance. Best time to hike:The hardest part is the heat. Sunrise or sunset is the best time of the day. If you go at sunset, bring a headlamp! Terrain, distance and elevation:This hike is on a steep wooden railway. It covers 1.6 miles round-trip with about 885 ft elevation gain, and a peak grade of 50%. What to bring:Bring lots of water on this hike in particular because you’ll definitely need it.

Olomana Trail, best for advanced hikers

Skill Level:Advanced. Use extreme caution and only hike areas within your comfort zone. Best time to hike:Start early in the morning because it will take a long time. You want to have enough time in case anything goes wrong. Terrain, distance and elevation:The first leg of this hike is muddy, but quickly turns into scrambles on narrow ridges. It’s a 4.6-mile out and back trail with an elevation of around 2500 feet, taking between 2 to 4 hours to complete. Getting there:You have to park on the street, so be mindful of people’s privacy and don’t be too loud. Also, don’t leave any valuables in the car because there have been reported break-ins into rentals.

Ko’olau Summit Trail, best for trail variety

Skill Level:Moderate to strenuous, depending on your approach and chosen section of the trail. The Ko’olau Summit Trail in its entirety is the hardest trail on Oahu. Best time to hike:Go early in the day for optimal visibility as the trails can be almost impossible to navigate in low light. Terrain, distance and elevation:Mostly dirt surrounded by lush mountain vegetation. Gets quite muddy and treacherous after rain.

Hikes

Dress Code

Shuttle Bus

Shuttle transportation to the venue will depart from the Hyatt Regency Waikiki Beach Resort &amp; Spa at 2:30 PM on wedding day. Please plan to arrive a few minutes early. 2424 Kalākaua Ave, Honolulu, HI 96815

Driving

For guests who will be driving themselves, please plan to arrive at Kualoa Ranch by 3:30 PM. Enter through the main parking area and follow the signs to Paliku Gardens, located at the top of the hill. You will pass through the check-in area and may see signs indicating “Permitted Vehicles Only”; however, wedding guests are authorized to proceed. Simply continue following the wedding signage to Paliku Gardens.

MJ & Lissa

MJ & Lissa

Travel

Sleep, Surf & Celebrate 🏝️