My husband got a hard dose of reality a few weeks ago, as he tried to make Mothers Day brunch plans here in Hawaii. Seems you need to call several months ahead if you want to take Mom out for a big brunch on her special day. Who knew!?
But here in Hawaii, it’s really no biggie if you can’t get a prime spot at a hot restaurant on Mothers Day — there are still lots of ways to celebrate Mothers Day in Hawaii. And, these ideas DON’T require a reservation!
- Picnic on the Beach: Hawaii beaches are open to everyone, and they DON’T require call-ahead seating! So grab a picnic lunch and take Mom to one of Hawaii’s most beautiful beaches (Waimanalo Beach or Lanikai Beach get my vote). Costco has affordable and portable lunch items, such as pizza and hot dogs. Or run by Zippy’s for some fried chicken in a bucket. Then, treat Mom to a fun day by the ocean, and enjoy the beautiful scenery. But, don’t forget to spoil her with some relaxation by letting her sun bathe in peace. Dad can take care of the kids!
- A Day of Culture: The Bishop Museum on Oahu is open on Sundays from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., and it’s THE place for Hawaiian culture and artifacts. Plus, the museum currently features a traveling exhibit about CANDY! And, who doesn’t love candy? The Honolulu Zoo or Waikiki Aquarium are animal-related cultural activities that are tried-and-true crowd pleasers, too. Dole Plantation on your way to the North Shore is also open on Sundays, and you can pop right in — no need for a reservation. And, in honor of Mother’s Day, Sea Life Park is inviting residents and visitors to enjoy free admission to all mothers who are accompanied by a guest paying full admission. In addition to its world class marine exhibits and shows, the Park also offers extraordinary, up-close animal interactions, such as the Dolphin Encounter, Sea Lion Swim, and Hawaiian Reef Encounter.
- Outdoor Adventure Anyone?: Guess what? Hawaii’s trails and waterfalls don’t require reservations, either! The Na Ala Hele Trail website, hosted by the State of Hawaii offers fantastic information on most of the trails across the state, and it’s a great website to check-out if you want a more mellow hike for Mom. While you’re at it, take along a picnic lunch, and eat as a family by one of the many beautiful waterfalls that adorn the ends of several trails.
- Go Window Shopping (or better yet, buy her something): Waikiki is home to hundreds of amazing retailers, both high-end and more affordable, and the area’s recent renovation makes navigating all the stores easy-peasy. Why not treat Mom to a quick meal on the Kalakaua strip, then offer her some company as she shops around Waikiki? Better yet, buy her something she’s always wanted — Tiffany’s anyone!?
Sure, you could follow the crowd and book a Mothers Day buffet brunch several months in advance, but who thinks that far ahead? Instead, enjoy Mothers Day in Hawaii by taking advantage of all our reservation-free activities!
