When a friend tells you about a trip they’re planning and you feel the stirring of possibility, take my advice and follow that feeling. This positive unstoppable feeling came over me when a good friend of mine told me the news about a spring break trip to Hawaii. Everything felt perfect, the dates matched my schedule and I knew there would be amazing turn-up time with my friends. I didn’t let the logistics of planning the trip bog me down, I simply said yes. As my first trip to Hawaii, it was a birthday vacay to remember.

I just recently returned from Waikiki, Hawaii after spending four days on the sun-kissed island. Those four days aligned with the Spring Equinox. So, as I was soaking in the sun on the beach, Spring sprung!

Planning The Trip

I must acknowledge that the reason I was able to go on this trip without the help of my friends and family lending me some cash, was because I traveled on a budget. My friends and I compared prices and found an affordable flight and hotel package and promo codes. The trip was around $600, but I hope y’all don’t think I paid full price. Although I was more than ready to do so, as this was a part of my saying “yes” to the adventure, I ended up getting a major deal. Through Uplift I was able to finance my vacation with monthly payments! For anyone not balling out of control yet, I feel Uplift is a perfect option for making travel accessible. Everyone should have the freedom to travel!

The Top Spring Destinations & Adventures

On to the topic we’ve been waiting for, welcoming Springtime! Jumping into adventure and allowing myself to go to new places was in line with the ideas of renewal and celebration that comes with Spring. There is nothing better than being in nature, smelling fresh air, and letting the sun touch your skin during this time as well. During my trip, I did all of this which anchored a sense of gratefulness within me. I went out into nature with a workout of a hike, I sat in the soft sand of two great beaches and even got a little fun drinking in. 

Hiking Diamond Head – State Monument

When I made it to the very top of the Diamond Head crater, I took a moment and breathed in the air. I said thank you for the experience and then I looked out at everything before me. Next to the long-dormant volcanic crater were stretches of green land and the evermore expansive sweet teal-blue ocean. My friends and I, of course, took photos at the top. Yet, looking at the waves rushing the shore, I literally forgot about the strain un my legs and the little shortness of breathing I felt hiking up the steep stairs and tunnels to the top.

Sunbathing At The Waikiki and Kailua Beaches

The sound of the waves felt thoroughly relaxing. It was everything you could want in waves sounds to put you in a state of calm. My friends and I found a great spot under the shady treeline looking out to the water at Kailua beach. Waikiki was a little more crowded yet the water was picturesque and worthy of visiting. Playing in the waves, swishing my hands around as if I were some mystical water goddess was eye-opening to me. I realized I want to live all of my life feeling and expressing such freedom and whimsy. 

Mini Cruise With Unlimited Drinks 

Off Waikiki beach, my friends and I stepped into the water and onto a sleek boat for a Sunset Sail. It was an hour and a half ride out into the deep blue water, rolling with the current, and waiting for the sun to go down.  With the lively music and open bar with amazing mai tais, it was a Spring celebration. We danced when a “Can’t Get Enough” by J. Cole came on and other tracks. A great part of the sailboat was that it had a top deck to sit or lie down on. As the sunset, I climbed up to the top deck and watched the sun fade below the waves as the wind whipped around me. 

Smart Packing Tip

Another smart tip that helped me make the most of my vacay was packing lightly. I knew I was going to be saying Aloha and Mahalo for only a few days so I only took carry-on luggage with me. Not only was this effective in prioritizing what outfits and essentials I would bring, but it also made traveling breezier. I didn’t have to wait at the conveyer belt for a checked bag, I could just grab my bags and exit the plane right out into the Hawaiian air. It was also easy for me to throw my clothes back into my carry-on and personal item when I woke up late on my last day when it was time to head back to the Honolulu airport. I’m truly proud that I was able to give myself this gift of visiting Hawaii and making sure that travel is a part of my life!

To soak up the beauty of Spring and all its chances for renewal and growth, consider hopping on a plane to Hawaii or another island destination to relax and unwind. Even a drive up to Malibu or down to San Diego can lift your spirit too. You can step into my Hawaii experience with a look at my Highlight reel on Instagram!

Where do you want to go? Who else has been to Hawaii and totally loved it? Drop a comment below!

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Best,

Kai