Hiya guys,

Under the advice of IslandS52, Im posting a few questions here about my upcoming visit to Hawaii - first time! :D

Im heading down for two weeks in mid September to visit an old college buddy of mine - who Im sure will have plenty of things lined up to do, but Id also like some alternative ideas.

Golf courses: Ill be bringing my clubs but I have no idea what kind of courses you have down there - any recommendations for a decent condition course or two?

Football: I may be early, not sure of the schedule, but Id like to catch a UH football game - when does the season start?

Diving: Im not certified to scuba dive, but Ive done it before under controlled conditions (read: cruise event). Are there any locations in the islands that take out low experience divers under supervision?

Cars: Anything automotive of interest? Tracks, meets, etc?

Restaurants: Anything half-way classy - where is the best food on the islands?

Appreciate it guys - cant wait to see blue skies and palm trees again - this Philadelphia weather is killing me... might as well live in Seattle - it would be an improvement. :D

Im off on the 12th too. First big vaca of the year. One more to go. Im not sure where your staying but I golf at the Princeville course and PoiPu course on Kauai. They are beautiful.
As for the rainy weather in Seattle, someone must of sent it your way because I havn't seen any rain in about 2 months. :clap:



Have fun in Hawaii.

:redspot

Aloha Stuttgart951 -

Welcome to Hawaii!
I hope you have a wonderful vacation while visiting.

Golf Courses: I don't golf, but my bro & mother inlaw do.
If you are looking for high $$ Ko Olina is good, if on the island of Hawaii (aka Big Island) Mauna Loa or Mauna Lani resort. For a lower budget on O'ahu: Olomana, Pali, Bay View, Koolau, Waikele, and Ala Wai there are a few others, but when you get here look in the Yellow pages of the phone book and you will find a lot more.

Football: UH just had their opening game on this past Saturday. Their next game is against USC in Ca. that will be on the 13th.

Diving: I know someone that does night diving and takes pic, I could ask him if he would be interested in taking a non cert. diver with him, but I'm not sure if he will want the responsibility. I'll ask if you want. You could go to Hanauma Bay and snorkel while feeding the fish, a lot of tourist engage in this activity. I'm not sure of the cost. You could then do some body surfing or boogie boarding at either Sandy Beach (dangerous shore break good for breaking bones) or Makapuu deeper water, longer riders, occasional strong current. I prefer Makapuu.

Automotive: There are drag races every Friday & Saturday night at Hawaii Raceway Park. There will be an Auto X on the 21st and a Drift Session on the 28th also at Hawaii Raceway Park. Other than that, rent a car and cruise the coast line and enjoy the sights.

Resturants:If you want to try the local favorites ask your friend to take you to a lunch wagon. The lunch wagon at Kewalo Basin is my favorite! You could also try Ono's on Kapahulu Ave. or Masu's Massive (big portions) plate lunch, or Big Kahuna's large sandwiches and very good. If dining is what you want the list is too large. Mariposa in the Ala Moana shopping center might be the easiest. There is Alan Wongs $$$ but good on King St. Assagio's also at Ala Moana shopping center. Nick's Fish Market in Waikiki on Kuhio Ave., Sam Choy's on Kapahulu Ave. and on and on. Again check the Yellow pages under Resturants when you get here.

All of the above is based on assumptions of what you are looking for. There are variables with regards to $$$$, scenery, location etc.
I hope this helps. When you get here, if you have any other questions e-mail me and I'll try to help.

I hope your stay will be a memorable one.

Aloha
Thrlls

:checkered

golf.
ko olina is a great course.
but yeah..
it's $$$.
pali: don't waste your money.
koolau ($$) is awesome (ranked the hardest course in the nation.)
a lot (i mean a lot) of hills, gulches, trees and blind shots.
very lush area as is most gc's on the windward side.
if koolau is your type..
also look into luana hills ($$).
waikele is maintained nicely.
ala wai: don't waste your money.
kapolei is also a well maintained course.
if you have access to military bases..
some to look into are..
navy marine..
mamala bay..
barbers point (good price and maintained pretty well.)
there are hundreds of gc's around.

Thanks for the advice guys!

Thrils, no need to ask your buddy about diving. Based on your snorkeling idea, Im sure I can find a 'touristy' suba joint where they take people out for 20 minutes or something.

Im emmensely looking forward to playing the courses out there - thanks for the suggestions.

I. Cant. Wait.

:D :D :D

For food you have to go to Roys. Sit downstairs (more casual) and order a ton of appetizers so you can sample everything. This is hands down the best restautant on the island for dinner. But like thrlls said, the wagons can't be beat for lunch. :buttrock