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Some people don't appreciate pineapple fields (Scarborough photo)

Hawaii is one of those few wonderful places that really lives up to its hype.

My first Navy ship was based in Pearl Harbor, Oahu, so as a single person I ran around and enjoyed the beaches whenever we were inport.

Tough gig.

I've returned with kids and continued to find that it's a magical place. There are a ton of guidebooks and online articles that cover the islands much better than I can, but I do have some links that you might enjoy.

** I'll lead off by overwhelming you with 101 free (or inexpensive) things to do on Oahu (remember that there is more than one Hawaiian Island, but Oahu is better known since that's where you'll find Honolulu.) There are a ridiculous number of choices for visitors.

I do recommend a luau (not free or particularly cheap) for atmosphere and succulent Kailua pig. As for poi….well, I did try it.

Also not cheap but worth it are surfing lessons if the kids are interested. My daughter still talks about the sunburnt, Mohawked "Coach Eddie" who got her up standing on a surfboard in one afternoon at Waikiki Beach.

** Remember that there's more to Oahu than Waikiki; check out the big-wave surfers at Banzai Pipeline and the laid-back North Shore. Kids love Matsumoto's shave ice, or you can follow any of Wendy Perrin's shave ice recommendations on her Conde Nast Traveler  blog.

** Follow the contemplative steps of early Hawaii visitor Mark Twain, particularly to the Big Island (volcanoes are very cool, no pun intended.)

** Maui is another fun and funky island to visit.

** Great news for travelers; it's getting even easier to go from island to island. Airlines that specialize in interisland transportation are adding routes and growing, but reserve early for the best times and prices. 

Eat some nice juicy pineapple for me, will you? It's no ka oi (the best!)