3 Islands - Just Back
 

I received so much information from this website before I left on my 2 week vacation to Hawaii - just got back last week - I would just like to thank everyone as my trip was wonderful. I was in Waikiki Beach 21 years ago and boy has it changed! <BR>We first flew from Toronto on American Airlines with a transfer in Dallas - of course the flight was delayed 3 hours. Arrived in Honolulu and just missed our inter-island flight with Aloha to the Big Island - no problem, they put us on the next flight which was an hours. Arrived in Hilo - no luggage, it didn't make the flight, will hae to pick ip up the next morning. Stayed at Arnotts Lodge - they sent a taxi to pick us up - we were so tired from flying all day - 18 hours and we had a real good sleep.. Retrieve our luggage at the airport the next morning and went on a volcano hike/tour with the lodge - amazing! The national park is huge and you can spend several days here. Next, 3 days in Lahaina, Maui - stayed at the Aston Maui Lislander $88 per night - very central - you must rent a car on Maui as there is no public transportation. We ended up renting a Harley Davidson for the day - toured the whole island - wonderful - had lunch in Paia, went to the Winery and spent some time on some very private beaches. Also rental and car for one day and just toured around - saw the aquarium. Next, flew to Waikiki for 8 days - stayed at the Aston Waikiki Grand Hotel - this place is a "HOLE" - booked it on the internet - picture you see of the room they advertise is not what you get. This hotel is really run down and dirty - we only stayed one night and checked out. Walked around and checked with other hotels and ended up with a room on the other side of Waikiki near Ala Mona Shopping Centre called the Waikiki Parkside $67 per night - real nice, good location, pool and very, very clean. Rented a jeep twice during our stay - once went and toured the Northshore and then went to the Windward side another. I was very disappointed with Waikiki - was there 21 years ago - it's now a big, dirty city with lots of crime. Japanese have taken it over - nothing Hawaiian about Waikiki just lots of shopping, Tiffany's, Prada, Celine if that's what your looking for. If you need to see Waikiki I suggest only stay a few days then get out either to another island or the otherside of Oahu. Although December/January is suppose to be the rainy season we had none - it was in the 80's everyday - couldn't ask for more. E'mail me if you have any questions and I'll try to help. <BR>

Hi! <BR>I'm planning a family trip to Hawaii - three weeks in July. I've been trying to find out about somesort of money saving deal on the inter-island flights. The guide books say you can buy cheap books of tickets or somesort of discount passes. Have you heard of this? Do you know where I can find some info?

What is wrong w/ Japanese people? <BR> <BR>

In my opinion not a thing is wrong with Japanese people - they are to be admired.

Japanese people are great! Don't miss the point. When you go to Dallas, TX you want to see cowboy/Texas things, when you go to Hawaii you want to feel surrounded by Hawaiian people/culture, when you go to Japan you want to experience the Japanese culture, etc. Usually not the other way around! Be careful using words like racism too easily or other people might use the word idiot too easily.

Nina, <BR>We are thinking about staying at Arnotts lodge and going on one or two of their outings. What did you think of the accomodations and the tours? What kind of room did you stay in? <BR> <BR>Any information would be greatly appreciated!! Thanks!

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Nina, <BR>Were you able to hike out to the lava flow on the Big Island? How difficult was the hike? Did you need sturdy hiking boots to go over the old lava flows! Thanks!

Hi Rae: You can get discount inter-flight coupons everywhere - you'll see advertisements. But I still think I got a better deal pre-booking my flights at home in Canada with a travel agent - I was charged $52 one way per person, US funds plus the travel agents booked the flights for me.

mm's: Arnott's Lodge was fine by us - but we are not the real fussy kind. Accommodation was very "basic" but very clean. We had a private room with a shared bath, which wasn't a problem as the other room we were sharing the bathroom with were never around. The front to the lodge is the hostel and we were told from people staying there - especially the women's side that some of the rooms had a real bad odour - two girls actually said they couldn't stand the smell and decided to tent it on the grounds. Tours are real reasonable - that's why we decided to stay at Arnott's. We wanted to do the volcano hike with them, it's $98 per person if your and outsider and $48 per person if your staying with them. The only draw back we found of the lodge was it's not near anything - small store near by, but that's it. If you want something to eat bring your own - we rented scooters one day and before we arrived back at the lodge we stopped off in Hilo at a grocery store to buy sandwiches, chichen and drinks. Went on the volcano hike and it was very interesting and a very long day. The lava flow stopped about a week before we arrived - it had just started up again and started in a new direction so we couldn't get very close to it or see it flow in the water. We did walk (approx. 2 hours one way) on the lava - it's a "hard" hike - take lots of water with you. When we went it was cloudly and we started approx. 3p.m. - I just can't imagine the hike if it was sunny and early in the day. One lady in our group couldn't make it - she stopped half-way going there. My husband and I are very fit - we both work out at least 4 times a week and do long distance biking - and we both found it a good workout. After our hike the guide took us to a natural fed spring which was heated by the volcano - it was wonderful - very relaxing just swimming and getting nice and warm from the water under the stars and moon. Our tour started at 10 a.m. and we didn't get back until just after 10 p.m. It's a long day - but worthwhile. Hope this helps you.

Trudy: hiking boots are a "must" - you'll understand why when you start hiking. It can be very easy to get your foot stuck in a crack or twist your ankle. Ground is very uneven and the lava does break away under your foot - we used walking sticks to keep our balance.

Matt: At least you knew what I was saying - the Japanese are wonderful people (I just happen to work with a great deal of them) - they have a great culture, great food - women are soooo pretty!!! As for Author:Racism, I'm not even going to answer you - your author title says it all.

Nina, <BR>Thanks for your info! Is is great to hear from someone who has done some of the things we are interested in!!! <BR> <BR>We have reserved two rooms with private baths in what appear to be houses on the Arnotts property (we are a group of 4 - 2 adults/2 teens). We were about to go with the "suite" in the main Lodge, but changed our minds at the last minute. Did you see these houses? - there appears to be three of them - one between Arnotts and the beach and two just to the north of the main lodge. I ask because we still might go ahead a rent a "whole" suite rather than share a house with other people. But then sharing might not be a big deal - just as you experienced. <BR> <BR>Anyway, we also were interested in Arnotts because of the hike/tour bargain. Did you talk with anyone who did the Mauna Kea Stargazing trip? or The south point, green sands beach hike? <BR> <BR>Thanks so much for sharing your experiences!! We can't wait to go!!

Nina, <BR>Thanks again for your help! <BR>One last question - we are planning to stay 3 nights on the windward side of Oahu at Kaneohe Bay. Did you have any favorite spots or recommendations about what to do or see on this side of the island?? <BR>Thanks!!

We're leaving next week for the Big Island and Maui, how was the weather near Volcanoes National Park? Was it much cooler than the other parts of the island? I'm trying to figure out if I should pack some warmer clothes. <BR>Thanks!

Anna: We were in Hilo Dec. 25 - 28; the weather was perfect! No rain for 3 days - it was "HOT" during the day. At night <BR>sitting around at the lodge outside it got a little chilly - you might want to bring a light jacket.

The inter-island air tickets are available once you arrive in the Islands. They are basically intended for locals but are available to everyone. Contact one of the regional carriers such as Aloha or Hawaiian when you arrive. The booklets contain 6 coupons, each valid for one flight and are usually sold for approx.$300. <BR> <BR>The weather at Volcanoes NP ranges from very warm and dry to misty and cool. The area around the visitor center almost also requires a light sweatshirt. Layers is definitely the way to go. Hiking boots would be fine but many people find them bulky to pack for such a limited use,rubber thongs or light sandals are all you need for most other things. I have hiked the area extensively and find a good tennis shoe to be adequate. The Kilauea Iki trail is particularly interesting. You hike down into the crater through beautiful greenery, walk across the flat,barren,lava field where small cracks are still steaming and the sulphur smell is present. You hike up out of the crater through jungle and wind up near the Thurston Lava Tube. Thurston LT is filled with visitors (you won't see many people on the other part of the hike)but is interesting. You then walk around the rim to wind up back at the lodge. I've done it many times and always enjoy it. My daughter has been doing it since she was 4 or 5,(she's 16 now) so you don't have to be a real athelete, but it does take 1 1/2-2 hrs. and the up and down as well as the heat should be considered. <BR> <BR>By the way, ALWAYS carry a water bottle with you in the Islands.If you are staying on the dry side of one of the islands, you may need a drink or to cool off just walking to the beach from your room. <BR> <BR>Nina...the residents of Hawaii are from all over, however, the majority of people thought of as "Hawaiian" have Asian, Polynesian and Portugese ancestry. There are very few "native" Hawaiians as that special designation has very specific requirements.What you notice most is the wonderful Hawaiian spirit of Aloha and the importance of ohana (family).The areas you chose to visit, Honolulu, Waikiki Beach, Lahaina, Maui are some of the most touristy areas and definitely did not let you fully experience Hawaii,her people and culture. I hope you return some day and visit some of the other wonderful places. I am a mainlander, caucasian and travel to the Hawaiian Islands several times a year. I have made many wonderful friends but I am still an outsider. There is an underlying resentment, by some Hawaiians, by the intrusion of so many people destroying what is held so dear...as you witnessed in the Waikiki of today versus the one you saw years ago. <BR> <BR>MMS...Kanohoe Bay is a quieter part of Oahu, the other side of the Pali (mountain). Military are based there and it is primarily residential.What are you interested in doing while in Hawaii? Our family (teenager, included) have been to most of the islands many times. I will be glad to provide any information you'd like. <BR> <BR>Please consider not going on a tour to the National Park. It is a short, under one hour, drive from Hilo. The roads are good and the directions easy. You can see things at your own pace. That's important because there are many different aspects to the area. One family thinks the moon like landscape is wonderful and another finds it unfriendly, hot and dull. You can rent an air conditioned car for under $30 for 24 hours. Stop and see the sites along the way. The waterfalls and flowers, with their wonderful fragrances, are spetacular. Stop at a fruitstand and enjoy a guava, passionfruit, banana, avocado. See and feel the difference between the klinker (rough) lava and the ropey, smooth kind. Trust me, you will have a much more relaxed, unstructured visit. There is absolutely nothing you cannot do on your own, I assure you. <BR> <BR>One of the best things about your vacation is that you will be on "Hawaiian Time", a pace few of us get to know. Have a terrific time!

Laurie, <BR>The hike you describe above sounds super!! Thanks! <BR>We chose the quieter side of Oahu because it is often hard to relax in a big city. We plan to spend one day going to Pearl Harbor and climbing Diamond Head. We probably will have one free day to hang out and maybe tour the North shore. Any suggestions you have are greatly appreciated. <BR> <BR>We will have a car everywhere we visit, however, I have felt a bit discouraged about where the rental companies allow rental cars to go on the big Island. I think we have figured out a reasonable way to get to the top of Mauna Kea (Arnotts Tour) and into the Waipio Valley (Hike). We are spending 2 nights in Hilo and one night right in Volcano village (Carsons lodge) - so I hope we will have some good opportunities to explore the park. But I also want to go to South Point and the Green Sands beach. Do you know how good/bad the road is to south point or if the hike to Green Sands Beach is worth it? <BR> <BR>Thanks for sharing your experiences!!

Driving in the Honolulu area of Oahu, particularly the airport to Waikiki, is awful! We travel a lot as my husband is with a major airline and this is one area we never rent a car. The ride over the Pali won't be as bad, just don't do it during commute time as many residents live on that side and commute to Honolulu. <BR> <BR>Do allow day for Pearl Harbor. The USS Missouri is there also, as is the USS Bowfin, a submarine, and a submarine museum. If history is of interest to your family, this is a must. There are a few things I've learned over the years about visiting Pearl Harbor but I don't want to bore you should you already have the info. Let me know if you'd like me to go into detail. <BR> <BR>Kaneohe is primarily residential; don't expect a lot of "sites", etc. You can take a catamaran ride out a bit if you want to snorkel. The water can be calm, but the fish are limited. Many people suggest a Hanauma Bay for snorkeling. As it is a Marine Preserve the fish are abundant. The down side is, it is a MAJOR tourist attraction so it is very crowded. Buses come and go throughout the day. <BR> <BR>The Diamond Head area is far quieter than Waikiki. If your family wants to see Waikiki however, I suggest the end farthest from Diamond Head, around the Hilton Hawaiian Village. The beach is at its widest at that point so there is more room between beach towels! There is a little known, but wonderful, military museum there also, Fort DeRussey. It follows the role of Hawaiians in the military-and it's free. If you want to do any shopping I suggest the small area adjacent to the HHV complex. <BR>I am not much of a shopper but my daughter enjoys looking around. For the most part, the shops there offer a cut above the "t-shirt" shops you will see on every corner. The main street in Honolulu has all the stores you can find in any large city so doesn't seem to be a good use of Hawaiian vacation time. If you are at Waikiki in the evening, use caution and stay on the main streets. You don't have to go far to encounter the problems of any large city. Honolulu reminds me of San Francisco, the area I am from, in a lot of ways. <BR> <BR>The north side has well known surfing beaches. If you don't surf, it is fun to watch! <BR> <BR>Many people enjoy the Polynesian Cultural Center. If you haven't been to Hawaii before it does provide insight into the history. Again, it is a little too touristy for me and I think expensive but it is a major attraction. We find the "Punchbowl", the cemetery in the hills above the city, to be very interesting and quite moving. It might be worth a stop on your Pearl Harbor day. <BR> <BR>Hawaii...my favorite island. I don't know how firm your plans are but I have a few thoughts I'd like to share. <BR> <BR>Hilo is the largest city on the island. It has little tourist activity in the city proper. Mostly regular folks going about their daily business. There is a lovely park, named for Queen Liliuokalani, in town. If you are early risers, you might enjoy the SuiSan fish market. Approx. 7am the local fishermen bring in their catch and it is displayed for the buyers from the large hotels and markets. It's really quite interesting. <BR>

Part 2 <BR>Akaka Falls is pretty, a pleasant walk on a paved path. As you leave Hilo and head for the park you could stop at the local zoo, the macadamia nut factory, botanical gardens and orchid growers. Most of these are offered by local tour companies. Lava Tree State Park near Pahoa is unique. For that matter so is Pahoa. Until the bypass was built a few years ago this was home to quite a few 1960's types. You used to be able to take this road to join the "chain of craters road" into the park (near the ocean) but the large lava flow in 1990(?) crossed the road and it has been closed since. Several towns were lost as was the famous "Black Sand" beach and one of the park's Visitors Centers. The main Visitor's Center is still open as is the Jaeger Museum. If the whole volcano thing is of interest to you, do plan to stop at the Jaeger. <BR> <BR>Regarding driving on Hawaii. It is far easier than on Oahu. Good roads, easy access to almost everything, few crowds. The only caveat is the Saddle Road. It is a road used by locals to cross from Hilo to Kona. To rental car agencies it is the "forbidden road". I would not encourage you to break rules but I can tell you it is an acceptable road. The only problem I know of is that if you were to have car trouble you would have to wait for a passerby to help. No gas stations, call boxes, etc. If you were not hoping to reach the observatory I would suggest driving the regular roads, only because there is so much to see. It takes 2-2 1/2 hrs. to drive from Kona-Hilo. I have driven round trip from Kona, after hiking in the park, in one day several times. <BR> <BR>Kona's sunsets are incredible! It is the dry side of the island so you don't have the almost guaranteed nightly rains like the Hilo side. Volcano and Hilo are so close to each other, I would encourage you to try to break up your island visit and allow some time for Kona and the Kohala mtns. <BR> <BR>Brings us to Waipio Valley. It is a very steep descent into the valley. Unless things have changed recently, a four-wheel drive vehicle is necessary to get into the valley (provided by the tour co.). It is worth it. We were fortunate to see it on horseback before tours were going in. It is a piece of paradise from years ago. <BR> <BR>I have probably told you more than you want to know. The islands are my second home. Please feel free to ask any questions. If you would like to provide an email address, I will be glad to go over details with you off of this forum. <BR>Aloha! <BR>

Laurie, <BR>Thanks so much for the info! We are planning to spend four nights in Kona so we look forward to those sunsets you describe! Regarding Waipio - would you recommend the motorized tour into the valley? Is it still possible to take horses into the Valley? And finally, what do you think about hiking down? We are from Colorado so we hike alot - but if it is really extreme we should probably think about it some more. <BR> <BR>Also, if you have any tips on visiting Pearl Harbor, I'd love to hear about them! Thanks!

Hi Laurie, <BR>Thank you for responding to other posts. I found your advice very helpful and are so full of information. <BR> <BR>We will visit BI in May and eventhough have been there twice,we never saw Lava Tree park. We would like to go to the thermal springs near Pahoe(?). It is the area where the water is naturally heated. I've read a few posts months ago that people's belongings were stolen when they were in the water. Do you think it is safe there? <BR> <BR>If you know the direction, can you tell us? <BR> <BR>Mahalo, <BR>Cathy

Glad to hear you are going to Kona...where are you staying? Have you selected your driving route yet? <BR> <BR>Physically I'm sure you'd be fine walking into Waipio Valley, just check ahead to be sure it is allowed. It is a narrow (one vehicle at a time), paved, steep but relatively short road. The valley still has a few residents but there used to be more. School children walked up and down the road as the school bus left them off at the top. When it rained they used the large "elephant ear" leaves as umbrellas as they walked. It is a stunning valley, high waterfall, streams, fruit, etc. I am sorry that I do not remember the name of the tour company we used to get into the valley, I know he was out of Honokaa. Once in the valley we were met by the driver's relative, cousin I think, named Duane. He lived in the valley and guided my husband and I on horseback picking guava and banana along the way. At the time access was more limited. Now you can tour the valley in jeeps, horse drawn carriages, etc.I don't know if Duane is still there but you might check the phonebook for Waipio tours out of Honokaa, someone might know him! <BR> <BR>Now that the USS Missouri is part of Pearl Harbor civilians are able to actually get onto Ford Island. It is possible to visit the Arizona Memorial, USS Missouri and USS Bowfin in one day but get there early. You will be given a timed ticket for the official tour of the Arizona and the time slots fill up fast. It opens at 7:30am. Arriving at 9am could get you a noon tour! While you are waiting for your tour there is a very interesting museum, book store, and volunteer speakers. Snacks and shade are available. If you have a long wait you could walk next door to the USS Bowfin or the Submarine Memorial/Museum. <BR>The tour isn't really a tour but a way of limiting the number of people allowed on the memorial. You begin under the direction of the Park Service by seeing a short film of what happened there. You are then transferred to the charge of the Navy and will board a launch and taken to the actual Memorial. You will be allowed to visit for a reasonable amount of time, about 20-30 mins I believe, then will reboard the launch and return to the park. <BR> <BR>The USS Missouri tour begins across the parking lot from the USS Arizona park. You will board a trolly and be taken across a new bridge to Ford Island. I really encourage you to purchase the VIP tour. It takes you places on the ship otherwise not available to the general public. You will also be guided by a docent rather than go it alone. The stories and facts they provide enhance the experience tremendously.You can go back and see anything you want on your own once the tour is done. You can arrange for this tour in advance if you want then you won't have to wait in any lines once you arrive. It's quite an experience, big band music playing from the shore, etc. <BR> <BR>Be sure you take the USS Arizona tour through the park service. There are other tour companies that advertise the Arizona but you will only be allowed to board the memorial if you go through the park serice the others take you past it in a boat! <BR> <BR>Take water, although it is available for purchase there, a hat, sunglasses and sunscreen. We take the bands we use around our heads/neck when hiking, wet them down and put them on when we're out there. It can get hot! <BR> <BR>There are amny companies that provide a "Day at Pearl" type tour. They pick you up at your hotel early in the morning and depart Pearl throughout the day, last one leaving around 3 or 4pm. It's a good way to go if you don't want to drive. You can arrange the same type of transportation in conjunction with the VIP USS Missouri tour by calling the USS Missouri information number listed in the Oahu phonebook. A days notice should be adequate.

Hi Cathy, <BR> <BR>Lava Tree State Monument, I think I referred to it as a State Park previously-sorry, is easy to find. As you head towards Volcanoes Park from Hilo on Hwy.11, turn onto to Hwy.130 @ Keaau...this is also the way to Pahoa. In Pahoa take 132,a road covered by a beautiful tree canopy. Lava Tree is just a short way. Pahoa is the home of a geo-thermal plant so you are on the right track re: naturally warmed water. A favorite of ours is what we refer to as "a jungle hot tub". Near Lava Tree you will see a sign for Pohoiki. Drive down to the small marina and park in the lot. Lock your belongings in the trunk just as a safety precaution, we've never had any trouble.As you face the ocean you will see a trail on your right, through the jungle. It is just a short walk to the tub. The water is pleasantly warm. Moments after you hear a wave hit the shore, ocean water dribbles through the rocks surrounding you to freshen and cool the water. <BR> <BR>There ia another area that you might find interesting but it is difficult to give directions. You will have to rely on asking locals as you get close. It is referred to as "Secret Spot" in the area near MacKenzie State Recreation Area. There is a road known as "the Red Road" running along the ocean between 130 and 132. If you can find someone who will show you where to park, you walk through the trees and will come upon one of the most beautiful places I've seen. Cliffs, streams, trees, white sand and very peaceful. Take a picnic. Sorry I can't be more specific. Just a note of caution so you won't be got off guard.The East Rift zone is the home of volcanoes, beauty and the area some have chosen to cultivate illegal crops. I have NEVER run into anyone or anything but you might hear helicopters or get a curious look when you appear to be a tourist asking about the area. <BR> <BR>Aloha! I wish I were on my way, too.

Laurie, <BR> <BR>Do you know the name and phone numbers of any companies that provide a "Day at Pearl" type tour? I would like to arrange something before we fly to Honolulu (from Michigan), as we will only have one day to see Pearl Harbor. <BR>If not, you also mentioned you can arange the same type of transportation in conjunction with the VIP USS Missouri tour by calling the USS Missouri information number listed in the Oahu phonebook. Being on the mainland, how would I get a hold of this number? <BR> <BR>Thanks, <BR>Chris

Okay - sounds like a lotta Hawaiian knowledge here! My husband and I our 16 year old daughter and her friend - 8 days based on Oahu, first week in April. Best beaches for the girls? (that I will feel comfortable with - can they safely go alone?) Where to stay - inexpensive, with pool, close to beach,that we'll all like? We plan to do the hiking stuff, PH, etc., I like museums and shopping, but I know the girls want beach! Lodging seems to be my biggest quandry. Thanks!

Chris, <BR> <BR>Info for the USS Missouri is available at their website-www.ussmissouri.com. The VIP Package which includes the transportation, tour etc. is not mentioned but you may be able to find out more about it by calling 1-888-ussmissouri or the Oahu #1-808-423-2263. Your hotel will probably be able to suggest tour companies that will provide transportation. You can purchase the guided tour @ the ship. The real advantage of doing the VIP trip is that there is only one call, one charge and no waiting in line once you arrive at the ship. Beyond that, your actual tour would be the same.I really recommend the guided tour versus solo or audio.You are wise to handle the transportation this way. Driving in the area can be tough if you are unfamiliar with the area. Lots of traffic like any big city. Public buses, while less expensive, can be crowded, SRO, and make alot of stops. It's really only a few extra $ doing it this way and saves lots of frustration! <BR> <BR>tmf- <BR>Not knowing where you are from makes it a little hard for me to suggest how you might feel about sending the girls to the beach alone. I also have a 16 year old daughter. We usually spend most of our time on the other islands as Honolulu is a large city with all the problems that go along with a city of that size.We are from the San Francisco area. Honolulu reminds me very much of San Francisco, except the weather of course,when it comes to safety, traffic, costs, etc. <BR> <BR>Without going into the "everyone does things different, different values, etc." thing, I honestly would only let my daughter go to the beach with a friend or two if we were staying very nearby and even then I would feel more comfortable if we were also parked somewhere on the same beach.Most of the more affordable hotels are not right on the beach. Before making a selection, look closely at a locator map. For the most part Waikiki is "the" beach in Honolulu, especially if you are thinking of a central location. Diamond Head is much less crowded but is set apart from the Waikiki activity. Waikiki Beach is also narrow in places and can be "beach towel to beach towel". The area by the Hilton Hawaiian Village is substanially wider and has a more open feel to it. If you can find an acceptable price, HHV might be a good choice. The pool is large and considering you want to please the teens as well as yourselves it might be an acceptable balance. <BR> <BR>Just keep in mind that this is a large, tourist filled city. Hope you have a wonderful trip, whatever you decide. The islands are beautiful! Aloha! <BR> <BR>

Lauri, <BR>Had to chuckle at the pleasant memories your post reminded me of! In 1975, my mother took me with her to a convention at the Hilton Hawaiian Village. I'm not sure what she thought I would do while she was in meetings - but I did go to the Beach - alone - I was 17. I ended up meeting a nice young boy from PA - and we had a terrific time together. I finally told my mom just a few years ago, however, that she would not have been happy with all that we did!! <BR> <BR>Anyway, one night the two of us disappeared and Our parents went nuts!! They developed quite a relationship while they searched for us and even now - 25 years later that share Christmas Cards. The boy and I ended up visiting each other several times - but our across country romance did not last forever. While I have very fond memories of that trip and my moments alone on the beach - I know too much - and I know I probaly wouldn't allow my own teenage daughter the same freedom!! <BR>Sigh - what she might miss!! <BR> <BR>Have a great trip and enjoy your kids - they are so soon grown up!!

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Laurie and tmf, <BR> <BR>Regarding which beaches are safe for teenage girls to go to alone, I lived in Hawaii for 5 years and know the beaches very well. I would say that almost any beach is safe for teenage girls to visit alone, except perhaps the beaches on the leeward side (around Makaha) which your daughters are unlikely to go to as they are a 1 hour drive from Honolulu. Hawaii is not a dangerous place! The only crime you need to worry about is petty theft. Of course, common sense would be useful. Your girls should not go to a completely deserted beach in the middle of nowhere. Again, your girls are unlikely to find such deserted beaches since they are far from Honolulu and the tourist areas.