On the coronary heart of each exceptional lodge expertise is somebody working behind the scenes to make the unimaginable attainable. For Halekulani Chef Concierge David Nakamura that’s simply one other day on the job. With an unwavering dedication to service, Nakamura takes delight in going above and past for his friends. He and his devoted crew work diligently to make sure that every visitor has a memorable expertise.
What units Halekulani aside isn’t simply the gorgeous ocean views or luxurious lodging—it’s the individuals. ”What really makes this lodge particular is the eye and care we offer every visitor,” Nakamura mentioned. “This real care can solely come from one of the best employees the business can present. It’s really the employees that brings this lodge to life.”
Nakamura’s roots run deep within the islands. Born and raised on Kauaʻi, he brings an genuine sense of aloha to every part he does. Now primarily based on Oʻahu, David balances his busy skilled life with time spent with household. His favourite factor about dwelling in Hawaiʻi is the individuals and the climate.
As Chef Concierge at Halekulani, Nakamura helps friends uncover one of the best of Oʻahu. That is how he recommends spending three excellent days right here.
Three Excellent Days on Oʻahu with Halekulani as Your Hub
Day 1: Waikīkī Wonders & Cultural Gems
Morning: Seaside Stroll + Artwork Gallery
- Examine in at Halekulani and settle into your oceanfront oasis.
- Get pleasure from a lightweight lunch at House Without A Key, Halekulani’s poolside restaurant. Attempt Pleasure’s Particular – the lodge’s signature crab, bacon, and avocado sandwich, paired with a refreshing Halekulani Mai Tai.
- Stroll alongside Waikīkī Seaside with Diamond Head as your backdrop.
- Go to the Inexperienced Room Artwork Gallery on the Queen Kapiolani Hotel, showcasing a vibrant assortment of latest artwork that includes surf and Hawaiian tradition artwork by native and worldwide artists.
Afternoon: Seaside Bites and Wildlife
- Seize a chunk at Waikīkī Beachside Bistro, an off-the-cuff, walk-up eatery steps from the sand identified for its pineapple slushy and garlic shrimp.
- Discover the Honolulu Zoo, house to over 1,200 animals and greater than 120 species, akin to black rhinos and komodo dragons. Throughout the road is the Waikīkī Aquarium, house to Hawaiian marine life, coral reefs, and academic reveals.
Night: Mediterranean Dinner
Dine at Orchids, Halekulani’s Mediterranean-inspired restaurant. Request a Diamond Head view to take pleasure in dwell music and hula from Home With out A Key subsequent door.
Day 2: North Shore Escape
Morning: Dole Plantation and Haleʻiwa City
- Head out early for a day on the North Shore. Cease on the Dole Plantation for a backyard stroll, prepare trip, and maze journey. Don’t miss the unique Dole Whip and pineapple-themed souvenirs. Deliver money, sunscreen, and an urge for food!
- Discover Haleʻiwa City, an enthralling surf village filled with native retailers, artwork galleries, and meals vans.
- Cool off with a well-known Matsumoto’s Shave Ice—attempt the Hawaiian Particular or native favourite with azuki beans and condensed milk. Go to Polu Gallery for surf-inspired artwork and presents.
Afternoon: Shrimp and Surf Spots
- Seize lunch at a shrimp truck—Romy’s or the enduring Giovanni’s are wonderful selections.
- Wander by way of Waimea Valley Botanical Gardens and take a dip beneath the waterfall.
- On the way in which again, cruise previous Sundown Seaside and Banzai Pipeline, legendary surf spots which might be calm and swimmable in summer season however awe-inspiring in winter.
*Or bundle it with a Waimea Valley Waterfall Swim & Dole Plantation Tour with Lunch
Night: Down Time
Return to Halekulani and unwind with in-room eating—a well-deserved deal with after a full day of journey.
Day 3: Artwork, Structure & Leisure
Morning: Go to the Shangri La Museum of Islamic Art (reserve prematurely) for a shocking oceanfront expertise of Islamic artwork and structure.
Afternoon: Native Lunch and Structure
- Get pleasure from lunch and a 100% Kona espresso at Island Vintage Coffee at Royal Hawaiian Middle. Select from an array of açaí bowls, poke, or garlic ahi. Or hop in line at Marugame Udon (don’t fear, it strikes quick!) for recent, handmade noodles and tempura.
- Tour the Liljestrand House, a shocking mid-century trendy architectural gem within the hills above Honolulu. Designed by famend architect Vladimir Ossipoff within the 1950s, the impeccably preserved house provides sweeping views of town and the ocean.
Afternoon: Spa Day
Chill out by the Halekulani pool or bask in therapy at SpaHalekulani. Attempt the Vibroacoustic Expertise, Zero Gravity Pedicure, or a customized Scalp Remedy session.
Night: Luxurious Sendoff
- Start your night with a cocktail at L’Aperitif, Waikīkī’s best-kept secret.
- Then, savor a world-class dinner at La Mer, Hawaiʻi’s longest-running AAA 5 Diamond and Forbes 5-Star restaurant, the place French culinary artistry meets island magnificence. A sublime ending to 3 days in paradise.