If you are traveling to Hawaii during the winter months, the North Shore of Oahu is the place you are going to want to make sure you spend a day.  The spot of Ehukai Beach, commonly known as the Banzai Pipeline, is the most notable surfing spot on the North Shore.  The waves can reach up to 20 feet during winter.

You will find what is called the ‘Seven Mile Miracle’ stretch of beach that begins in Haleiwa, a famous surf town, and ends in Turtle Bay.  If you are lucky you will come on a day when The North Shore is host to one of the numerous surfing competitions that take on these massive waves.  Grab a plate lunch from one of the many roadside stops and sit out on the beach and watch the brave souls ride these treacherous pipelines.  My only requirement is that you drive to Matsumoto’s and order Shave Ice (NOT shaved ice)!  I can’t put my finger on it, but this is the best shave ice you will experience on the island – and it is located here on the North Shore in Haleiwa!

If you are a beginner and are interested in trying the waves yourself there are areas on the beach where they can give surf lessons.  You might not be hitting up the 20 foot waves quite yet, but soon enough you will get the swing of it!  Be careful not to get in over your head, most of the main beaches do have lifeguards and if they think you aren’t prepared to handle the level of waves they will get on the loud speaker and call you in.  This is for your own safety and the safety of the surfers around you – those waves can have a mind of their own sometimes.

Research costs.

Plan for a Long Trip.

Pack Lightly.

Expect to be tired.

These are the few flying laws of going to Hawaii.  Start early and sign up for the travel deal websites such as Airfare Watchdog, Priceline and Travel Zoo.  They will send you weekly updates and help you find the right time to book.  Once you get a feel for the general prices, when you see a good deal JUMP ON IT!  If you want a good price on your ticket, I would expect a layover in LA or Seattle.  If you want to spend the money and not deal with the travel hassle, than you can get a direct flight (but it will cost you!).  From Chicago the flight takes about 9 – 10 hours typically with an hour layover.

My favorite way to get to and from Hawaii is to fly the red eye.  Leave Hawaii at 11 PM and fly overnight to your destination.  This is only best if you can sleep on a plane.  Expect a long trip!  No one enjoys sitting on an airplane for 6+ hours (especially if you are the lucky one with the middle seat), bring books – update your iPod – or take sleeping pills!  One of the three will get you through the flight.  I encourage you to take advantage of the layover to stretch your legs.  Walk around and get some food because the airlines no longer offer you a bite to eat more than some peanuts or pretzels on the flight.

Above all – pack light!  If you are hopping islands from Oahu to Maui and Kauai, you will be going through security numerous times and the chance of something happening to your luggage only increases!  What more do you need in Hawaii than a few dresses, flip flops and 2 or 3 bathing suits.  Wear anything bulky such as a sweater or tennis shoes on the plane with you to save more room in the carry on. Especially on your honeymoon you won’t be thinking about the stilettos  in your closet, when you are spending quality time  in the sunshine.

Expect for the both of you to be tired after traveling 10+ hours.  Be careful, although you will be still on a high on your honeymoon, I personally get cranky after not sleeping and having to sit in a small seat for a long period of time.  Even though I don’t want to take things personally, every comment and movement is heightened – so be patient with one another.  Especially focus on each other’s needs, and every now and then give your new wife/husband a kiss to make sure they are still smiling.

Spend the month of February traveling the islands with me as I discover new and exciting adventures for the two of you in Hawaii. Good Luck and Happy Travels!!

I am in search of sunnier weather for the next 11 nights and am positive I will find it in the BREATHTAKING islands of Hawaii!  Heading back to where I grew up – and spent my childhood years!  I am excited for the plans J and I have of snorkeling, catamarans, zip-lining, luaus and hiking.  Most of all I am excited to go back and see the two houses I grew up in and my old elementary school.  I am excited to reminisce over the crazy food I ate and the places I frequented.

I am off on a three island, 11 night hop through the Hawaiian Islands.  When I come back I will have plenty of suggestions for all of you brides heading to Hawaii on your honeymoon!

Hyatt Regency Maui Resort & Spa

Named by Modern Bride Magazine as the 2001-2006 “Ultimate Fantasy Suite in an Over-Water Bungalow,” 2002-2004 “Best Hotel for Seclusion,” 2005 “Sexiest In-Room Extras,” and 2003 “Most Scenic Honeymoon Spot,” I don’t think there are any questions if Bora Bora Lagoon Resort & Spa and a dream location for honeymooners!

Your honeymoon will be romantic whether you are in the middle of a hut in Bora Bora, or in a random hotel in the middle of nowhere. The point is to get away, relax and enjoy the first moments of being married in pure bliss!

I have always loved the breathtaking pictures and thought of Bora Bora but have yet to make the trip out there! I want to hear from brides that choose to spend the week in a hut over the water in a romantic heaven!  Stories are welcome!

Check out their special Honeymoon Package:

Most couples today are already established with deluxe pots and pans and have bought their favorite china, so when the time comes to register for gifts—they have to ask themselves, what is left to buy?  I suggest treating yourselves to an unforgettable honeymoon, not missing out on anything due to cost.  Have your friends and family give money towards your vacation—assisting in spa treatments and romantic dinners.

Hyatt Hotels & Resorts has launched the Hyatt Gift Registry, where couples can register online for a variety of amenities, services and accommodations at Hyatt hotels and resorts worldwide!  Imagine dinners on the beach, scuba diving or an anniversary stay at a favorite hotel on a gift registry?  It’s an ideal option for the couple who has everything!

Guests make a contribution towards Hyatt Gift Cards (redeemable at Hyatts in the U.S., Canada and Caribbean) or Hyatt Check Certificates™ (redeemable at Hyatts worldwide). Just like traditional registries, couples are notified as gifts arrive and they can make revisions with just a few easy clicks. Best of all, there are no expiration dates or blackout dates so any extra honeymoon credits can go towards future vacations, spa treatments, etc.
And if you’re planning a destination wedding, couples who wed at a participating Hyatt property (in the U.S., Canada, Cancun, Mexico or Aruba) by June 30, 2010 will receive up to five complimentary nights towards their honeymoon.  (YES, I said 5 Nights!)  You earned yourself a relaxing honeymoon, so take the time off to truly enjoy it!

Have you had a destination wedding at a Hyatt?  What exotic location did you choose?