Trip Report

Question

Just a quick summer trip report. We stayed near Waikiki with a rental car. It was nice to see the difference between a Winter and a Summer trip.

This was my first time to the Waimanalo Country Farm to see the sunflowers. I was not disappointed. We hit this up as soon as they opened then headed on to our next stop. This could be a nice stop if you have children and have a long vacation.

Of course we went to Kailua Beach Park and Waimea Falls. Our favorite part of the trip was snorkeling at Three Tables Beach. It's some of the best snorkeling I have ever done. We usually stop here in January and watch the large surf roll in so I was amazed at the difference.

Husband got to play a round of golf with some friends while I shopped at June's Fabric. We enjoyed meals at Duke's, Tiki's, Buzz's Steak House and the Elk Lodge. I think my favorite restaurant was Paris Baguette. We went there for breakfast on our last day and it was so good we went back for lunch.

We also sailed on the Na Hoku and spent some time in Waikiki.

Answer

Thank you for sharing your summer trip report! It sounds like you had a wonderfully balanced visit to Oahu, combining outdoor activities, relaxation, and great food.

The Waimanalo Country Farm with its sunflower fields is indeed a hidden gem, especially enjoyable in summer when the blooms are at their peak. Arriving early to avoid crowds is a smart strategy, particularly if you are traveling with children.

Kailua Beach Park and Waimea Falls are classic highlights. Kailua offers soft sand and calm waters, perfect for a leisurely morning, while Waimea Falls provides a scenic hike with a rewarding waterfall experience at the end. Your snorkeling adventure at Three Tables Beach must have been spectacular; summer conditions generally provide calmer waters, which makes it ideal for seeing vibrant reef life.

Snorkeling at Three Tables Beach: Excellent visibility and diverse marine life, calmer surf than winter months.
Waimanalo Country Farm: Best early morning to enjoy sunflowers with minimal crowds.
Kailua Beach Park: Family-friendly beach with soft sand and clear water.
Waimea Falls: Scenic hike suitable for all ages with a beautiful waterfall at the end.

It sounds like you and your husband balanced your activities nicely. A round of golf while shopping or visiting local craft and fabric stores makes for a relaxed pace. Dining seems to have been a highlight, with a mix of casual and more refined experiences. Paris Baguette seems to have left a lasting impression for both breakfast and lunch, which is a great find in Waikiki.

Duke's: Classic Hawaiian beachfront dining experience.
Tiki's: Casual spot with tropical cocktails and island vibes.
Buzz's Steak House: Known for hearty meals and local flavor.
Elk Lodge: Local favorite for comfort food.
Paris Baguette: Exceptional pastries and breakfast/lunch options.

The sailing experience on Na Hoku adds a lovely perspective to see Waikiki from the water, complementing the land-based activities. Overall, your itinerary provides a wonderful template for a summer visit to Oahu: a mix of nature, water activities, shopping, and excellent food, making the most of the island’s offerings during the calmer summer months.

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