The Hawaiian Islands are generally thought of as an American honeymooner’s destination. While they do make up much of the tourism in Hawaii, there is good reason for it. Hawaii is truly a spectacular place and with so much to see and do, it’s hard to not like it. While Honolulu, and in particular, Waikiki is the hub of tourist activity (sometimes irritatingly so) it’s also the best city for clubs, bars, dining and vacationing on a budget. The other islands (and parts of O’ahu) are beautiful but they are very laid back and not for most gay boys that want a little party with their vacation.

When friends ask if I miss living in Hawaii, I tell them that what I miss isn’t the sandy beaches, tropical weather, or lush mountains… it’s the people. Hawaii is aptly named the “Aloha State” and in this case, “aloha” doesn’t have the hello and goodbye meaning most associated with it; it carries its root meaning of love, peace and compassion. Strangers say hi to you for no reason, elders are referred to as “auntie” and “uncle”, and drivers will let you merge with a return of a wave (or shaka) in thanks.

Take a trip to Hawaii and enjoy some fun in the sun, be the “tourist tail”, hike, snorkel, and surf… and enjoy the aloha spirit.

Sights/Beaches

Apart from some interesting buildings in the city and a small Chinatown, Honolulu doesn’t have much in the way of typical sights. It’s all about nature in Hawaii so sun on the beach or head for the mountains.

The beaches in Waikiki are pleasant and the water is shallow for about 300 meters so it’s perfect for surfing (rental about HK$80) or taking a swim. If you like to surf or would like help getting your feet wet, there is a gay surf club (a Google search will give you the phone number).

The downside to Waikiki is that it’s asses to elbows with tourists. For fewer tourists and the “gay beach”, move down Waikiki Beach towards Diamond Head and Kapiolani Park. It’s coincidentally and appropriately named Queen’s Surf Beach and while during the week it can be hard to recognize, on the weekend it’s full of Speedos and lisps.

To really enjoy the beaches of Hawaii, get out of Waikiki. My favorites are Sandy’s Beach for the hot surfer guys in board shorts and exposed upper asses and Makapu’u Beach for the killer waves perfect for body surfing. Hanauma Bay is famous for snorkelling but try to visit early and on a weekday so the wait is minimal (it’s regulated). The gay nude (illegal) and cruise beach is part of Diamond Head Beach but it’s mostly rocky and not many visitors (and even fewer hot visitors).

If you’re in for a cool change then take a hike in the rugged and lush interior. In a 15-minute drive from Waikiki you can enjoy the hike to the Manoa Falls or the more challenging Makiki/Tantalus Trails. Both are nice all year round but during the rainy months (Nov-Feb), prepare for wet trails and possible rain even if it’s sunny at the beach.

Eat

Pacific Rim and Island-Style is the cuisine of Hawaii. A meal at a nice or even decent restaurant will give you a taste of the cuisine’s mix of Asian and European flavors. More Island-Style is Tiki’s Grill and Bar and is located in the heart of Waikiki. Its charm is the tiki-lounge décor and the island-influenced dishes are delicious and reasonably priced.

For real local food, have a “plate lunch” which is a selection of various Hawaiian, Asian and Portuguese dishes served with rice and macaroni salad. You’ll have to go slightly out of Waikiki for the most authentic restaurants and while some have a few tables, it’s best to get it takeaway and eat at the beach. My favorite within walking distance of Waikiki is Rainbow Drive-In in Kapahulu. In the same neighbourhood is Ono Hawaiian Foods, a real local restaurant serving Hawaiian food. Prepare for a stick-to-your-ribs meal.

To enjoy some tasty bites and creative drinks check out the gay owned and operated Tapa’s located right around the corner from Angles. For a delicious weekend breakfast in a beautiful setting (and away from tourists), dine at the Waioli Tea Room in Manoa where you can enjoy your meal surrounded by the lush Hawaiian flora.

Nightlife

Honolulu’s nightlife is not the reason why you go to Hawaii. Still, it can be decent and quite busy especially on the weekends. The best thing about the scene in Honolulu is that everyone is friendly and laid back. Locals will chat with you and will be glad to give you tourist advice. In fact, you’ll probably be pegged as tourist tail and make a lot of new “friends”.

Don’t worry about what to wear when you go out. Less is more. Many just wear shorts, slippers and a t-shirt. Most bars stay open until 2a.m. but a few are permitted to stay open until 4a.m. In any case, start your night relatively early, no later than 11pm. There is a usual Friday and Saturday night loop the gays follow. Start at Hula’s which is a nice, airy bar with views of Waikiki Beach. At about midnight drive, taxi or walk to the other end of Waikiki to Angles. Angles is more of a local bar and known for its super strong drinks. After Angles closes, everyone heads to Fusion, which is literally right next door. Check out the local fag rag, Odyssey for a few other bars and any special events.

Downtown has become a new hotspot for artist galleries and trendy (gay friendly) nightclubs. Thirtynine Hotel is the place the cool kids go to sip from their long necks and watch performance art or listen to live music. Also in town is Indigo, a restaurant and bar that is known (in my book anyway) for its Martini special (Tues-Fri 4-8p.m.). Over 30 martinis to choose from for HK$35.

Where to Stay

Waikiki is packed with hotels that range from luxury to basic, depending on your budget. OHANA Hotels is a chain that has nice but basic rooms and amenities starting at about HK$700/night. Another chain that is more upscale (and therefore more expensive) is Aston Hotels with several properties in Waikiki.

The Cabana at Waikiki is the only gay hotel, even though it’s not openly promoted as such so as not to scare away the straights. It’s a small property with large bedroom suites and all are equipped with kitchenettes. It’s in a prime location, only a block away from Hula’s and a short distance further from Queen’s Surf. Rates start at HK$1100.