O’AHU TRAVEL DIARY

Where to stay, eat and play while visiting this enchanting Hawaiian island.

By Alison McGill

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Angel and her family traveled to Oahu to shoot the dreamy Surfrider collection. “My husband was my second shooter and videographer, all while wearing our nine-month-old baby strapped to his chest and keeping a watchful eye on our eight-year-old daughter,” Angel laughs. “It was definitely a family affair.”

While in Oahu, Angel had a chance to check out all the beauty of the destination. Here’s her stylish suggestions on what to do on the island of Oahu.

STAY: Moana Surfrider, A Westin Resort & Spa, Honolulu, Hawaii.

This historic oceanfront hotel on Waikiki Beach in Honolulu first opened her doors in 1901 and is lovingly known as the “First Lady of Waikiki.” The hotel was the location for our shoot and so inspired the name of our 10th anniversary collection. “I love a luxe hotel experience and this property did not disappoint,” Angel says. “Book a premiere ocean view room for the most magical views. I also loved that the beach was right outside my door, and I could be on a lounge chair, under an umbrella with a drink in hand in minutes.”

EAT: Beach House at the Moana, Honolulu, Hawaii

Poke bowls and sushi are fresh options to grab for on the go lunches, but for an indulgent dining experience, Angel says this is the place. The signature resto at the Moana Surfrider boasts incredible views, custom cocktails, and inspired cuisine. “The restaurant is on the verandah of the hotel and the food is beyond delicious,” Angel reports. “If you love oysters, definitely start with those, and don’t skip the coconut kamachi crudo. We were also totally blown away by the desserts which is not something we typically indulge in. Absolutely best in class.”

DO: Lei Making

That lei you see in our campaign was hand crafted by Angel! Leis are an ancient Hawaiian tradition that are not only fun to learn about but to learn how to make. Each flower symbolizes a family member or loved one and as you sew the flowers you bring positive energy and aloha—which in Hawaiian culture means the essence of being and harmonious living—to your lei. “It was quite an experience and very symbolic,” Angel says. “A wonderful bonding moment between my daughter and I.”

SEE: North Shore, Oahu

Located just an hour’s drive from Waikiki, the North Shore is home to the best surfing in Hawaii. Visit between November and February to ride the biggest waves (or just observe and leave the surfing to the pros!). The months of May through September see calmer waters making it a perfect place to swim and hang loose. “We rented a Jeep and drove up the coast and the beaches were spectacular,” Angels says. “We spent a night at Turtle Bay which is another incredible luxury resort with the best snorkeling. The water was crystal clear and there were so many colourful fish swimming with us.”

IG MUST: Sunrise Shack, North Shore, Oahu

This is a quintessential island photo moment not to be missed. Not only is it the best spot to grab a healthy snack like smoothie bowls and bullet coffees, but it’s also a much-hyped social media spot. “It’s super cute and definitely one for the ‘gram,” Angel says.