We will be arriving in Waikiki on the 24th after a day of travel from Ohio. We land at 2:30 and by the time we get the car and check in, figure we’ll be ready to hit the street around dinnertime.

This is our 14th wedding anniversary, and I’d like to make special dinner arrangements someplace with a great food and view walking distance from Lewers and Helumoa. Like to keep it under $100…

Then, would like to catch some entertainment preferably on the beach with great Mai Tai’s. This is her first trip to Hawaii and I’d like to make this first night memorable.

Finally, head back to our hotel to pass out….

Based on the criteria, what would you recommend, and if reservations will be required?

Thanks to all for your continued postings…

Steve Muniak

Steve,

If I were you, I'd save my Big Splurge dinner for my second or third night, rather than the first, even though the first night is your anniversary. I don't know if you've flown this trip from Ohio before, but you are likely to be wiped out! At least, that's been our experience (after 4 times); what you could do the first night is go to Duke's Canoe Club for dinner (walk up to the corner of Lewers and Kalakaua, turn right, walk down a couple of minutes to Outrigger Waikiki, where Duke's is located). You really know you're in Hawaii - they're right on the sands of Waikiki Beach, great Hawaiian music, very good food, tropical atmosphere, beautiful sunsets. It would keep you awake, be a ton of fun with Mai Tai's, and the lights going on up and down the beach!

Then, after I was over my jet lag the next day or so, I'd go to Orchids, right in the vicinity you're staying in, at the Halekulani Hotel. They have Fixed Price dinners for about $45 each, the setting is magnificent - I think you'll need to set your limit at more like $150 for a great view & great food in Waikiki (what do other posters think? Very subjective, of course. But it is 14th anniversary so .........) I think you'd love the place. The BEST entertainment on Waikiki will be Friday, Saturday and Sunday nights, but it's always lively at Duke's.

I would advise buying Frommers' Hawaii 2000 - so many great ideas for $19.00, so much valuable info.

Anyway, have a great trip, Steve. Wish it were me!

Whoops! Forgot to say, yes, do call and make reservations before you go! Tell Duke's it's your anniversary, and you'd like a great table for the sunset; the same at Orchid's. The area code in Honolulu is 808, if you want to call information for their numbers.

Sorry! Me again! Forgot to say "Call before you leave Ohio!" That way you won't be disappointed!

Lani,

Good posting, and I've heard good things about Dukes.

Do have the Frommers guide and am using it in conjunction...

And you are right about the wiped out... Luckily we are both young [child bride...] and night owls, and can sleep on the plane. The next night is at the Polynesian Cultural Center, then Friday morning off to Kaanapali for seven days. So, this is our only chance to do the town,,,,

Steve

Steve,

If you can sleep on the plane, that makes a big difference! I do think you'd like Orchids, if you want a more romantic place. But Duke's is a lot of fun! Have a great time!