TRAVEL TO: The Big Island, Hawaii
Where to go, what to do, what to wear AND a few tips about being BIG on the Big Island!
IMO the best way to enjoy Hawaii is to leave your pretense at the door. This is a magical place. It’s a treasure. I mean it when I say I was one more nature outing away from buying turtle earrings at the gift shop. Even though you are technically still in the USA, check your American energy and just vibe. Yes the prices are not that laid back lol, but for me, Hawaii is you get out what you put in.
I recently had the opportunity to travel to The Big Island with Clé de Peau. We stayed at the Mauna Lani and I brought my mom along for the ride. Now let’s get in to a few things about my stay!
Plus Size Tips:
ACTIVITIES: I did the outrigger sunrise canoe trip. I was nervous because the seats looked narrow but actually had no problem fitting comfortably. You do have to paddle for about 20 minutes so know your limits!
SEATING: Seating at the hotel was super size inclusive!
I really wanted you to see this size inclusive chair. Points for trying to get a good pic?
The travel nitty gritty:
FLIGHT: Hawaiian Airlines had really generous seats and the belts were very comfortable.
HOTEL: The hotel was tranquil and beautiful during our stay. It’s definitely family and conference friendly, so if you are traveling with a family, this is a place for you. There are such good activities for kids. There is a baby pool with sand bottom, family pool and adult pool. I’m always excited when there is a quiet adult pool. Make sure to book on a quiet week to maximize your adult time if that’s your vibe :)
LOBBY COFFEE: No specific coffee in the lobby BUT the cafe opens at 5:30 for a big cup of Kona coffee. You know I am an early riser, so this was key for me!
FOOD: The food at the hotel was really good. Shrimp and fish tacos at the restaurant were my go to’s each day. They also have a super fresh green salad you can top with protein.
I highly recommend the waffles with coconut syrup!
I’m always worried that “fine dining” restaurants at hotels will be precious- but The CanoeHouse on property that was fantastic, not precious and delicious.
The Poke bowl at Foodland is not only the best deal on the island, its also delish!
Local Chex mix: I saw many variations of this, but the one sold at the market at the Auberge had honeycomb cereal, pretezels, chex mix, fruitloops and more. Sounds insane but actually could not put it down.
I wanted to try the Copper Bar at a neighboring hotel, but its on our list for next time.
MORE FUN:
I was lucky enough to have Sabrina Chazen on speed dial for this trip. She has been coming to this island her whole life so was able to guide us.
Rent a car: A great idea because there is so much to see! The Auberge had rentals on site.
Whale Watching. We used Ocean Sports and saw so many whales.
Snorkeling: Our beach was rocky and not prime for snorkeling. The beach at the Mauna Kea hotel is gorgeous and they also offer a nightly manta-ray viewing point. They didnt show up the night that we went, but you can also do a snorkeling tour at night and swim with them. Manta’s are not lethal like sting rays, they seem to be joyful blobs in the water with tiny faces and I want to be best friends. It’s what Moana’s grandma turned into when she died, if you need another reference…IYKYK.
What I Packed:
J. Crew Bikini Bottoms and J. Crew Bikini Top (both in 3X)
Beyond Yoga Circle Skirt (in 2X)
Rue de Verneuil Tote (Similar)
It feels like we just scratched the surface of this island! I cant wait to go back!
Have you been?
I've been going to the Big Island for 20+ years now! It has some of my favorite snorkeling spots but you were on the beach side of the island, not the coral snorkel side of the island.
My husband and I went to Oahu for our 10 year anniversary last year. It was absolutely gorgeous and we are hoping to visit Kauai next year. I dream about the poke bowls we had there. Can't wait to go back!