hAnG'iN OuT iN hAwAiI!!

PF Changs with Sean Sr., Virginia, Sean Jr and Sierra

(see....they actually do love each other)

Fireworks on the beach!

Snorkeling in Hanauma Bay

Snorkeling in Hanauma Bay is truly experiencing paradise. The crystal blue ocean crater is full of bright and diverse species of fish, rays and turtles. The kids LOVED this day...it was so cool for them to watch so many different kinds of fish underwater.

Looking for Humuhumunukunukuapuaa! (the state fish of Hawaii) Don't ask us to say it...yikes!

We really, really needed water shoes for this day...the entire crater floor is made of lava- horrendous for bare feet!

This was us waiting to watch a safety video that all visitors are required to see before you can go down to the crater.

Dole Pineapple Plantation

Hawaiian pineapple is so delicious!!

The Pineapple Express train toured us through the pineapple gardens.

Diamond Head National Park

the tunnel!

Hiking

Hawaiian shave ice...YUM!

The unique profile of Diamond Head (Le'ahi) sits prominently near the eastern edge of Waikiki's coastline. Hawaii's most recognized landmark is known for its historic hiking trail, stunning coastal views, and military history. Diamond Head State Monument encompasses over 475 acres.

This broad, saucer-shaped crater was formed about 300,000 years ago during a single, explosive eruption that sent ash and fine particles in the air. As these materials settled, they cemented together into a rock called tuff, creating the crater, and which is visible from the trail in the park.

The trail to the summit of Le'ahi was built in 1908 as part of O'ahu's coastal defense system. The 0.8 mile hike from trailhead to the summit is steep and strenuous, gaining 560 feet as it ascends from the crater floor. The walk is a glimpse into the geological and military history of Diamond Head. A concrete walkway built to reduce erosion shifts to a natural tuff surface about 0.2 mile up the trail with many switchbacks traversing the steep slope of the crater interior. The ascent continues up steep stairs and through a lighted 225-foot tunnel to enter the Fire Control Station completed in 1911. (you can see a picture of Ben above in the tunnel) Built on the summit, the station directed artillery fire from batteries in Waikiki and Fort Ruger outside Diamond Head crater. At the summit, you'll see bunkers and a huge navigational lighthouse built in 1917. The postcard view of the shoreline from Koko Head to Wai'anae is stunning.

Jet Lag...up before the crack of dawn!

Our first morning we took a walk at 5:30 a.m. to watch the waves and sunrise...yes, there are benefits of jet lag.

No people! Ben took advantage and started the day signing his name in the sand.

Exploring our 1st day on the island...

We stayed at the Hilton Hawaiian Village Beach Resort & Spa which is located on Waikiki's widest stretch of beach, this impressive property is nestled on 22 oceanfront acres!

Baylie is getting a lesson on how to 'hang loose'

The hotel had a natural sanctuary with more than 60 species of exotic birds, waterfowl, turtles, fish, and even penguins!

The kids called the lagoon the 'guppy pool' because they liked to catch the little fish!

Our hotel was a water lover's dream. Offering the choice of six swimming pools and a salt-water lagoon, the kids loved the choice of the ocean, the pool with 2 water slides, and the lagoon. (which came in handy when the jelly's were out!)

Duke Kahanamoku LagoonFive-acre salt-water lagoon and beautiful stretch of white-sand beach

Our first day all 3 kids swam across the whole lagoon! (no sharks)

On our way to Hawaii

We are on our way to Hawaii!! The kids are skipping school for 3 days...we started summer early! This is our family 'before tan' photo.

On the plane the kids pushed every button about 30 times each. We were SO lucky that Chris has a million miles and upgraded all 5 of us to first class!!

Nolan pushed the flight attendant button for me (how thoughtful) while I was not looking.