Get ready for an unforgettable wedding experience in Hawaii!

The top part of this page will be mostly information that is more relevant before we are in Hawaii. As we scroll down, you will see a breakdown of each day. I will be providing a list of peoples phone numbers and names as well as a giant group text as we get closer to the date. I will try and add more information as I can and once we are on the island, I will try and adjust this page so that is easier to see the schedule. We wanted to give you as much information as possible without having to search google every single time you have a question about the island. So hopefully we have a lot of good stuff here.

January 16th - (Jan 19th, wedding day) - January 22nd, 2025

Our destination wedding is set to take place on the picturesque island of Oahu, where we'll be staying together at the Waikiki Grand by Castle Resorts.

Located just a one-minute stroll from the sandy shores, this hotel offers the perfect blend of convenience and comfort. Not your typical lavish retreat, but it's cozy, clean, and boasts the prime spot on Waikiki's vibrant strip.

And guess what? There's no shortage of things to see and do on Oahu! Explore the iconic Waikiki Beach, hike up the majestic Diamond Head Crater for panoramic views, or immerse yourself in history at Pearl Harbor.

But let's not forget about the other enchanting islands that make up Hawaii! Maui, known for its stunning beaches and lush landscapes, offers the chance to witness breathtaking sunsets atop Haleakalā. Meanwhile, on the Big Island, you can marvel at the fiery spectacle of active volcanoes in Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park.

So, get ready to soak up the sun, explore the wonders of Hawaii, and make memories to last a lifetime at our Hawaiian wedding bash!

Waikiki Grand cost:

So here’s the quick breakdown for the hotel. The cost is: $595.48 for six nights with a city view. That comes out to $99 a night to be in Hawaii.

I was able to negotiate down the price three times (Late night phone calls with Castle Resorts). Last January the cost of each room was around $260 (per night) in addition to cleaning fee and other taxes. We paid a little more than half the bill for each room. The remainder has to be paid off by December 3rd, 2024. If you’re interested in extending your stay or coming early you can talk to the hotel and should be able to remain on the negotiated rate of $206. We really suggest island hopping though after your stay.

The hotel will be contacting you by e-mail and we will also provide an e-mail or information about completing payment. If you do not receive information from the hotel in the next week or so then please follow up with me. If anyone is interested we can also pay the bill for you and you Venmo (reimburse us) us the remainder. (We’re always hunting for credit card points)

(Sorry for the late notice, it’s tough planning a wedding) Some of the wait for this information was just us paying the hotel and other bills and settling up with our half and registering each person or couple to a room before we could share all of the information..

Basic Packing List for Oahu Wedding Guests

Essentials:

• Travel Documents: ID, passport (if applicable), flight tickets, and hotel reservation details.

• Wallet: Cash, credit/debit cards, and any travel insurance information.

Clothing:

• Wedding Attire:

  • For men: Hawaiian or collared shirts with long pants, and comfortable dress shoes.

  • For women: Informal dresses, skirts, or slacks, and comfortable shoes suitable for the beach.

• Casual Wear: Light and breathable clothing, including T-shirts, shorts, sundresses, and swimwear.

• Evening Wear: Light jacket or sweater for cooler evenings.

• Sleepwear: Comfortable pajamas or sleepwear.

• Workout Gear: Athletic wear if planning to exercise or hike.

Beach Gear:

• Swimsuits: Bring at least 2-3 swimsuits.

• Beach Towels: For lounging on the sand (though hotels often provide these).

• Sun Protection: Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a wide-brimmed hat.

• Beach Bag: To carry your beach essentials.

• Flip-Flops/Sandals: Comfortable footwear for the beach and pool.

• Snorkeling Gear: Optional, as some places provide rentals.

Outdoor & Adventure Gear:

• Reusable Water Bottle: Stay hydrated during activities.

• Light Backpack or Daypack: For hiking or exploring.

• Bug Spray: For protection against insects, especially if hiking.

Personal Care Items:

• Toiletries: Toothbrush, toothpaste, shampoo, conditioner, body wash, deodorant, and any other personal items.

• Medication: Any prescription or over-the-counter medications you may need.

• Hair Care: Comb/brush, hair ties, and styling products.

Technology:

• Phone & Charger: Don’t forget a portable charger if needed.

• Camera: To capture memories (smartphone cameras are usually sufficient).

• Adapters: If traveling from outside the US, ensure you have the appropriate plug adapters.

Miscellaneous:

• Books or E-Readers: For relaxing downtime.

• Travel Guide or Maps: To help explore the island.

• Small First Aid Kit: For minor injuries or illnesses.

Special Considerations:

• Formal Attire: If planning to attend any fancy dinners or events outside of the wedding.

• Reusable Shopping Bag: For groceries or souvenirs.

Dress Code for the Beach Wedding Ceremony

For Men:

• Attire: Please wear a Hawaiian shirt or a collared shirt with long pants. Opt for classy-looking Hawaiian shirts with subtle patterns or elegant designs. This ensures a stylish yet relaxed appearance fitting for the beach setting.

• No Shorts: We ask that you avoid wearing shorts to maintain a polished look appropriate for the occasion.

• Suits & Jackets: Suits and jackets are not necessary for the beach. Choose a relaxed yet refined outfit that complements the tropical environment.

For Women:

• Attire: Informal dresses, skirts, or slacks are perfect. Choose something comfortable and breezy to stay cool and enjoy the event.

• Footwear: Comfortable shoes like sandals or flats are recommended, as high heels may sink into the sand.

General Tips:

• Fabric Choice: Light, breathable fabrics such as cotton or linen are ideal for the warm beach environment.

• Accessories: Feel free to wear casual accessories that enhance your outfit, but keep them simple and appropriate for the ceremony.

• Weather Considerations: The beach can be windy and sunny, so consider hats and sunglasses if desired, but keep them stylish and suitable for the occasion.

To find images that match the dress code we’ve described,

you can use the following keywords on Google:

For Men:

• "Classy Hawaiian shirts"

• "Elegant Hawaiian shirts for men"

• "Collared shirts with long pants beach wedding"

• "Casual beach attire for men"

• "Men's beach wedding outfits"

• "Tropical dress shirts for men"

For Women:

• "Informal beach dresses"

• "Casual beach skirts and slacks"

• "Summer wedding outfits for women"

• "Comfortable beach wedding attire for women"

• "Breezy beach dresses"

General:

• "Beach wedding dress code"

• "Beach wedding attire ideas"

• "Tropical wedding outfits"

• "Classy beach wedding fashion"

Booking Flights to Hawaii: California and Massachusetts

Just so you don't get scared when you start looking up the costs, keep in mind that if today you look up your home airport to HNL the cost is going to look very expensive. But as we get a little bit closer and start looking, the cost should be $350 and maybe $600 on the high end. It's going to be cheaper from California of course. the most I have ever paid was $730.

But if I look up the cost right now for January. while I'm currently in the month of August or September, the cost is going to be inflated. We plan on starting to look at tickets in October, November and as late as December. Here's some information about flights.

1. Flying from California to Hawaii:

• Optimal Booking Time: For the best rates, book your flight 2-3 months in advance. Prices can fluctuate, so monitoring fares and booking during sales or off-peak seasons (typically mid-week and non-holiday periods) can help you secure a good deal.

• Flight Duration: The flight time is generally between 5 to 6 hours. Direct flights are commonly available from major California airports like Los Angeles (LAX), San Francisco (SFO), and San Diego (SAN).

• Airlines: Major airlines offering direct flights include Hawaiian Airlines, Alaska Airlines, American Airlines, and Southwest Airlines.

2. Flying from Massachusetts to Hawaii:

• Optimal Booking Time: To find the best fares, book your flight 3-6 months in advance. Due to the longer distance and fewer direct flights, early booking is advisable. Fares are often lower when booking during non-peak travel periods and monitoring for deals or fare sales.

• Flight Duration: The flight time from Massachusetts to Hawaii, including layovers, generally ranges from 11 to 15 hours. Most flights will have at least one layover, commonly in cities like Los Angeles (LAX), San Francisco (SFO), or Seattle (SEA).

• Airlines: Airlines offering these routes include Hawaiian Airlines, American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, and United Airlines.

Additional Tips:

• Flexibility: Being flexible with your travel dates can help you find better options. Use fare comparison websites and tools to track and compare prices.

• Consider Upgrades: For long-haul flights, consider looking into upgrades for added comfort, especially on flights with multiple legs.

• Travel Insurance: Consider purchasing travel insurance, particularly if you have connecting flights or are traveling during peak seasons.

Thanks for being a part of our lives!

So I wanted to write a quick explanation of why we did six nights. There was a lot of back-and-forth between Molly and I about how many nights we wanted to do. We didn't want anyone to fly out, go to sleep in the next day go to a wedding and then fly back a day or two later. Hawaii really is one of those magical places that you’ll be talking about for the rest of your life.

We want to make sure everyone got a little vacation out of this because you lose a day on the front end and back end as well as our wedding day. With the amount of days this leaves you about with four days to really explore and do whatever you would like. It takes a little bit to get into the swing of things on the island in regards to traveling around and really figuring out what you like to do there. We also wanted to make sure we had time to spend with people individually and in groups.

If we had planned any less days, we didn't think this would be possible or comfortable for anyone. We really appreciate everyone coming out here and also getting more of our family and friends to meet up. The island can be as expensive as you want it to be. For the most part we like, going swimming, out to eat and exploring some of the shopping places as well as some light hiking. You don't really need to spend money to enjoy Hawaii.You don't really need to spend money to enjoy Hawaii that's

This will be my fifth time out in Hawaii and Molly's second time. We really enjoyed it here previously and wanted to share that with our friends and family. We know it's a lot to ask, but we really appreciate you taking the time. We hope this will encourage you to come back to the island soon.

January 16th, 2025 - Arrival day

Arrive at Hawaii at Daniel K. Inouye International Airport (HNL). (Smell the sweet Hawaiian air, but seriously do it!). It’s a small airport and easy to navigate. Make sure to have your car booked prior to arrival for best results.

Rent a vehicle, Uber, Lyft or Taxi (808) 233-3333 to your hotel.

Check in at Waikiki Grand Hotel - 134 Kapahulu Ave, Honolulu, HI 96815 - We’re probably not all on the same floor, but the same hotel which is what’s important. We are only 143 steps from the ocean from the front entrance of the hotel. Hotel has laundry services in the basement as well as towels for the beach and chairs to borrow.

Settle in, take a nap or visit an ABC store (local convenience store) for some snacks for your room. The Macadamia nuts are everywhere in these stores, big touristy thing to get and worth it. It’s a lot to take in when you first arrive here, so you may need a Mai Tai to help sort things out for you.

Check out the beach, walk the strip, figure out dinner (Tons of restaurants and choices) The strip is very walkable after it’s dark. Most stores will close around 8pm, so keep that in mind for any shopping. ABC stores remain open longer as do restaurants.

Watch the sunset from the beach with everyone (Literally everyone stops to watch the sunset here on Hawaii, it’s magical)

January 17th, 2025 - Unwind

Catch sunrise on the east side of the island at Lanai lookout (This is where Mike proposed to Molly) or Helona blow hole. About a thirty minute drive give or take.

There’s a lava tube under the bridge closest to Lanai lookout that you can crouch walk through to see an amazing view of the ocean.

Keep following Kalanianole Highway away from Honolulu and see the entire island. There’s a nice stop up ahead called Makapu’u lookout where you can see some of the beaches and a little more of the island.

Look up breakfast places along the way. Visited Kono’s Northshore two times and highly suggest it. (Suggest looking at Google and Yelp and looking for photos of interior and also what the food looks like). There’s no shortage of amazing spots to stop at. Save room for lunch!

Plan to meet for lunch with everyone so we can have a big meet and greet. We have twenty three people, some from east coast and some from the west coast.

12pm - Meet at Lulu’s Waikiki - 2586 Kalākaua Ave, Honolulu, HI 96815 (Located next to our hotel) My favorite is the Beach Benny and Molly’s is the Aloha Avocado Toast. Highly suggest getting a Mai Tai.

January 18th, 2025 - Explore

Catch another sunrise. (If you did it yesterday then you’ll know how amazing they are). We haven’t mentioned this yet, but the swimming here is amazing. Today might be a great day to get out of Honolulu and poke around the north shore of the island to find some beaches.

10am Breakfast or brunch with everyone at (TBD). We’ll bring everyone up to speed on what the wedding day is going to be like and we’ll talk transportation. Everyone here can link up or make plans and just enjoy the day.

Dole Plantation is on the way to the north side of the island. Great place to grab a Dole Whip (Molly’s favorite place on the island).

Bring a towel and swim-wear anytime you hop in a car here on the island. All the beaches are public, you can literally go swimming anywhere provided you can find parking (there’s always parking). Make sure to read below about the beaches before going in, just a quick warning about the waves.

January 19th, 2025 - Wedding day

Okay, wedding is at 3pm on the north side of the island at Papa‘iloa Beach (Papailoa Rd Haleiwa, HI 96712), so you have plenty of time to enjoy the morning. Travel time should range between one hour to hour and a half. We plan to rent two vans to bring people there. You can also drive yourself, Uber or Taxi

Where to park for Papailoa Beach? Close to the end and you'll find a blue public beach access sign about four houses before the end. You'll also find a little dirt parking area on the opposite side of the street by this same sign and a bit more parking a little further down the road towards the dead end.

Here’s what Molly & Mike’s schedule looks like (We’ll have a much more detailed schedule for ourselves) but here’s the basics:

8am - Molly starts to get ready for the wedding day. Ladies can join at their leisure if they want.

11:30am - Mike gets ready, suits up.

12pm - Dress goes on, final prep for Molly.

1:30-2pm - Everyone should transit to wedding ceremony location (See above info on transportation)

3pm - Wedding ceremony - Intermingle, standing to form to groups with open aisle down the middle for photos.

3:30pm - Photos (Group photo with everyone and then breakdowns of different groups and family) Everyone should be leaving once the photos are complete. You can head back to the hotel or start to meander towards the restaurant.

7pm - Dinner at MonkeyPod in Waikiki (2169 Kalia Road, Unit #111 Honolulu, HI 96815)

9:30pm’ish - Good night and thanks for coming.

January 20th, 2025 - Beach day

Okay, now that the mushy stuff is over, you should totally go and enjoy more of this forced Hawaii vacation. If you haven’t been to the beach yet to go swimming then now is a great opportunity to do so.

15 Amazing Beaches Around Oahu

• Waimea Bay

  • Vibe: Famous for its massive winter waves and surf competitions. Great for big wave surfing and watching experienced surfers.

  • Address: 61-031 Kamehameha Highway, Haleiwa, HI 96712

  • Parking: Free parking available at the beach parking lot.

• Lanikai Beach

  • Vibe: Picture-perfect, with calm, clear waters and powdery white sand. Ideal for swimming and kayaking.

  • Address: Mokulua Drive, Kailua, HI 96734

  • Parking: Limited street parking; public parking available at the nearby Kailua Beach Park.

• Hanauma Bay

  • Vibe: A protected marine sanctuary with excellent snorkeling opportunities. Ideal for exploring coral reefs and marine life.

  • Address: 100 Hanauma Bay Road, Honolulu, HI 96825

  • Parking: $3 for parking; limited spots; get there early.

• Kailua Beach Park

  • Vibe: A family-friendly beach with gentle waves and a large park area. Perfect for picnics, swimming, and water sports.

  • Address: 526 Kawailoa Road, Kailua, HI 96734

  • Parking: Free parking at the park’s lot.

• Makapu'u Beach

  • Vibe: Known for its strong waves and scenic views. Great for bodyboarding and coastal hiking.

  • Address: 41-95 Kalanianaole Highway, Waimanalo, HI 96795

  • Parking: Free parking in the lot across the highway.

• Waikiki Beach

  • Vibe: Iconic and bustling, with lots of activities, restaurants, and shopping. Good for surfing, swimming, and people-watching.

  • Address: Kalakaua Avenue, Honolulu, HI 96815

  • Parking: Paid parking available in nearby hotel garages and metered parking.

• Sandy Beach Park

  • Vibe: Known for its strong waves and shorebreak. Popular with experienced bodyboarders and surfers.

  • Address: 8801 Kalanianaole Highway, Honolulu, HI 96825

  • Parking: Free parking available in the park’s lot.

• Ala Moana Beach Park

  • Vibe: A calm and spacious beach with a large grassy area. Ideal for a relaxed day with swimming and barbecuing.

  • Address: 1201 Ala Moana Boulevard, Honolulu, HI 96814

  • Parking: Free parking available in the park’s lot.

• Kapiolani Park

  • Vibe: Located at the east end of Waikiki Beach, offering calm waters and lush green spaces. Great for picnics and a quieter beach experience.

  • Address: Kalakaua Avenue, Honolulu, HI 96815

  • Parking: Free parking available along the park’s perimeter.

• Laniakea Beach

  • Vibe: Known for its turtle sightings, where you can often spot green sea turtles resting on the sand. A more serene experience with moderate waves.

  • Address: 61-090 Kamehameha Highway, Haleiwa, HI 96712

  • Parking: Free parking available on the street or at nearby public lots.

• Ko Olina Lagoons

  • Vibe: A set of four man-made lagoons with calm, clear waters. Ideal for family outings and relaxing in a controlled environment.

  • Address: 92-1480 Aliinui Drive, Kapolei, HI 96707

  • Parking: Free parking available at the resorts or designated beach lots.

• Waimanalo Beach

  • Vibe: A beautiful, less crowded beach with soft sand and gentle waves. Great for swimming and sunbathing.

  • Address: 41-043 Kalanianaole Highway, Waimanalo, HI 96795

  • Parking: Free parking available at the beach park lot.

• Yokohama Bay

  • Vibe: A remote and picturesque beach with strong waves. Ideal for experienced surfers and those seeking solitude.

  • Address: 85-675 Farrington Highway, Waianae, HI 96792

  • Parking: Free parking available along the road near the beach.

• Kuilima Cove

  • Vibe: A sheltered cove with calm waters, ideal for snorkeling and swimming. A quieter alternative near the resort area.

  • Address: 57-091 Kuilima Drive, Kahuku, HI 96731

  • Parking: Free parking available at the adjacent resort or public lot.

• Pu’uloa Beach (also known as Salt Lake Beach)

  • Vibe: A local favorite with calmer waters and a relaxed atmosphere. Good for swimming and fishing.

  • Address: 1170 Salt Lake Boulevard, Honolulu, HI 96818

  • Parking: Free parking available in the adjacent lot.

• Makena Beach (Big Beach)

  • Vibe: A wide, spacious beach with strong waves. Great for sunbathing and bodyboarding, but be cautious of the strong surf.

  • Address: Makena State Park, Makena, HI 96753

  • Parking: Free parking available in the state park lot.

January 21st, 2025 - Adventures

Go and see more sunrises and don’t forget to see your final sunset today. There’s lots of places to visit still. Don’t forget to just soak it in either, enjoy some downtime. We’re going to be around if you want to try and hang with us as well.

15 Interesting Places to Visit on Oahu

• Diamond Head State Monument

  • Description: Hike to the summit of this iconic volcanic crater for stunning views of Honolulu and the Pacific Ocean. The trail is steep but offers great rewards.

  • Address: Diamond Head Road, Honolulu, HI 96815

  • Cost/Time: $5 per person (walk-in), $10 per vehicle; 1.5-2 hours

• Pearl Harbor National Memorial

  • Description: Visit the USS Arizona Memorial and explore the Battleship Missouri and Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum to learn about the events of December 7, 1941.

  • Address: 1 Arizona Memorial Place, Honolulu, HI 96818

  • Cost/Time: Free for the USS Arizona; other exhibits/tours $20-$79; 2-4 hours

• Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve

  • Description: A marine sanctuary perfect for snorkeling with vibrant coral reefs and abundant marine life. An educational video is required before entry.

  • Address: 100 Hanauma Bay Road, Honolulu, HI 96825

  • Cost/Time: $25 per person (ages 13+), parking $3; 2-3 hours

• Iolani Palace

  • Description: The only royal palace in the U.S., offering a glimpse into Hawaii's monarchy with guided or self-led audio tours.

  • Address: 364 South King Street, Honolulu, HI 96813

  • Cost/Time: $20-$30 per person; 1-2 hours

• Manoa Falls

  • Description: A lush, easy hike through a tropical rainforest leading to a 150-foot waterfall. The trail is often muddy, so wear appropriate footwear.

  • Address: 3860 Manoa Road, Honolulu, HI 96822

  • Cost/Time: $7.50 for parking; 1-2 hours

• Waimea Valley

  • Description: A botanical garden and cultural site with native Hawaiian plants, historical sites, and Waimea Falls, where you can swim.

  • Address: 59-864 Kamehameha Highway, Haleiwa, HI 96712

  • Cost/Time: $25 per adult, $14 per child (ages 4-12); 2-3 hours

• Byodo-In Temple

  • Description: A replica of a 950-year-old Japanese temple set against the Ko’olau Mountains, perfect for serene reflection and photography.

  • Address: 47-200 Kahekili Highway, Kaneohe, HI 96744

  • Cost/Time: $5 per adult, $2 per child (ages 4-12); 1-1.5 hours

• Kualoa Ranch

  • Description: A 4,000-acre nature reserve offering ATV tours, horseback riding, and movie site tours, including famous locations from “Jurassic Park.”

  • Address: 49-560 Kamehameha Highway, Kaneohe, HI 96744

  • Cost/Time: $51-$150 depending on the tour; 2-3 hours

• Bishop Museum

  • Description: Hawaii's largest museum, featuring exhibits on Hawaiian history, culture, and natural science, plus a planetarium.

  • Address: 1525 Bernice Street, Honolulu, HI 96817

  • Cost/Time: $25 per adult, $17 per youth (ages 4-17); 2-3 hours

• Punchbowl Crater (National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific)

  • Description: A serene cemetery honoring U.S. Armed Forces with panoramic views of Honolulu and Diamond Head.

  • Address: 2177 Puowaina Drive, Honolulu, HI 96813

  • Cost/Time: Free; 1-1.5 hours

• Ala Moana Center

  • Description: The world’s largest open-air shopping mall with luxury brands, local boutiques, dining, and entertainment options.

  • Address: 1450 Ala Moana Boulevard, Honolulu, HI 96814

  • Cost/Time: Free to enter; shopping and dining vary in price; 2-4 hours

• Waikiki Aquarium

  • Description: Explore Hawaii’s marine life, including coral reefs, Hawaiian monk seals, and colorful fish at this educational aquarium.

  • Address: 2777 Kalakaua Avenue, Honolulu, HI 96815

  • Cost/Time: $12 per adult, $5 per child (ages 4-12); 1-2 hours

• Tantalus Lookout (Puu Ualakaa State Park)

  • Description: Drive up to this lookout for stunning views of Honolulu, Diamond Head, and the Pacific Ocean. It’s a great spot for photos and a picnic.

  • Address: 3199 Tantalus Drive, Honolulu, HI 96822

  • Cost/Time: Free; 30 minutes to 1 hour

• The Contemporary Museum

  • Description: Features contemporary art exhibitions and a beautiful outdoor sculpture garden. Located in a historic estate, it combines art with scenic views.

  • Address: 2411 Makiki Heights Drive, Honolulu, HI 96822

  • Cost/Time: $10 per adult, free for children under 12; 1-2 hours

• Foster Botanical Garden

  • Description: A tranquil garden in downtown Honolulu featuring tropical and subtropical plants, including rare and endangered species.

  • Address: 50 North Vineyard Boulevard, Honolulu, HI 96817

  • Cost/Time: $5 per person; 1-2 hours

January 22nd, 2025 - Bye bye bye

Okay, you’ve enjoyed the six nights here at the hotel. You can either try and book more nights here or head over to another island. We highly suggest island hopping. The flights are typically inexpensive, $50-$100 each way

The big cost for Hawaii is really just getting out there and finding a place to stay. The car rentals are always going to be somewhat comparable to the mainland. Each island will have different price points for hotels. But now that you’ve become a pro at the island life you’ll be able to soak in any of the remaining destinations out here easily.