We kicked off the new year of 2020 by heading to Hawaii for about 5 weeks. With many timeshare points in our account, we decided to use the bulk of them during this time, averaging out our overall costs for the coming year. We were able to stay about two weeks on Maui, and then a week each on Kauai, Oahu and the big island of Hawaii.
Our time on Maui was mostly spent dodging the rain (thought we were flying to somewhere sunny??), and just getting some swimming and walking in. We did sneak in a whale watch (full disclosure - I was not quick enough for the picture, but someone else on the boat “shared” it with me), a visit to Surfing Goat Farms and the Ocean Vodka distillery while we were here though.
On Kauai we stayed on the Princeville side, near Hanalei Bay, and spent most of our time here just relaxing by the pool with the chickens and the nene (the Hawaiian goose). I also had a day where I “commuted” to Oahu to play golf with Mr. and Mrs. Ma, who were visiting from Korea - great chance to see friends (thanks again S.K. Ma!).
From Kauai, we moved over to Oahu and spent or time on the west side of the island in the Ko’Olina area. Beautiful and peaceful place, away from the Waikiki scene. We spent much of our time here in the ocean and by the pool, but also enjoyed a visit to “Elena’s” for Filipino food (as seen on Guy Fieri’s “Diner’s, Drive In’s and Dives”). Thanks to Jenna D’Agostino for this hint! The food was awesome!
After Oahu we headed back “home” to the Big Island, where we had the coffee farm from about 2012-2017. We again spent much time in the ocean, and visiting some of our old favorites on the island (including LT Smooth and his band). Places like Lava Lava Beach Club - for music on the beach, Jackie Rey’s for a great meal, and Kenichi Pacific for great Sushi. We also found a new place that we really enjoyed - the Kuleana Rum Shack in Waikoloa. Making their own rum from local sugar cane, and great food (and Malasadas!)
This was a great way to start 2020. Now relaxed and ready to go for the rest of the year!
Let’s see what’s next!
All the best,
Tim & Eileen