On this trip to Oahu, we go beyond the lounging on the beach and sipping maitais.
Alohilani Resort Waikiki Beach lobby and pool
My husband and I begin our stay at ‘Alohilani Resort Waikiki Beach with a cultural blessing on the ocean—the Hi’uwai and E Ala Ē rituals representing a reset and rebalance. Before entering the water, we take time to think about life and its challenges. Then, as our practitioner chants the E Ala Ē prayer, we enter the ocean and let the waves release any negative energies into the water. As we walk backward until our feet are back on the beach, the chant ends, the sun rises and we’re spiritually cleansed and ready to start the day anew.
A unique experience awaits at Gunstock Ranch
‘Alohilani’s Unforgettable, Soulful Hawaii package provides a unique experience that offers this ritual, plus a coveted aloha ʻāina with fun-filled eco-adventure. Today, ‘Alohilani is honoring Queen Liliʻuokalani’s legacy by restoring the natural wealth of her islands with native tree plantings. A journey from Waikiki to the North Shore brings us to Gunstock Ranch where we see beautiful horses, wildlife and grazing cattle, then personally plant an indigenous tree in a ceremony at Legacy Forest overlooking the Pacific Ocean. In addition to contributing to the effort to create a sustainable future, we dedicate our kou tree to our children. The trees are tagged with a chip so we can track ours throughout our lifetime and visit for decades to come.
Back at the resort, we relax on a Waikiki beach and indulge in amazing food at Swell Restaurant and Pool Bar, but being able to participate in more island traditions is another reason we’ll be back. Package from $363 per night for minimum of three nights, including $200 resort dining credit
The resort’s pool
Photography by: Courtesy of brands
