family adventures, Georgia, history, travel

Exploring Atlanta with Kids: Our Visit to Centennial Olympic Park 

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On our trip to Atlanta, we spent some time exploring downtown and one place we were especially excited to visit was Centennial Olympic Park.

There was something really special about walking into a space that once welcomed the entire world. This isn’t just a park, it’s a place where history, community, and everyday life beautifully intersect.

A Park Rooted in Olympic History

Centennial Olympic Park was built as a central gathering space for the 1996 Summer Olympics, transforming what was once an underdeveloped area of the city into a vibrant destination. During the Games, it served as a hub for visitors from around the world, a place to celebrate, connect, and experience the spirit of the Olympics.

Today, so many elements from that time are still present, and you can truly feel the history as you walk through.

One of the most iconic features is the Fountain of Rings, designed in the shape of the Olympic rings. If you time it right, you can catch the choreographed water shows set to music, something that kids (and honestly, adults too) absolutely love.

As we explored, a few features really stood out, not just visually, but for the stories they tell.

Meaningful Details You Don’t Want to Miss

The Olympic Torch Cauldron

One of the most recognizable pieces still standing in the park is the original Olympic torch cauldron from the 1996 Summer Olympics. This is the very cauldron that was lit during the Opening Ceremony by boxing legend Muhammad Ali in one of the most powerful and emotional Olympic moments in history.

While the cauldron has since been relocated within the park from its original stadium setting, seeing it up close is still incredibly meaningful. It stands as a symbol of unity, perseverance, and the coming together of nations.

The “Man Walking Up the Stairs” Sculpture

One piece that quietly caught our attention was the “Man Walking Up the Stairs” sculpture.

It’s simple, but powerful, a figure moving upward, step by step. It felt like a reflection of the Olympic spirit itself: perseverance, growth, and continuing forward even when the climb isn’t easy.

The Engraved Bricks

As you walk through the park, you’ll notice the pathways are made up of engraved bricks filled with names and messages.

These were part of a fundraising effort leading up to the Olympics, allowing individuals and families to leave a lasting mark. Now, they form a beautiful reminder that this park isn’t just about a global event, it’s about people, stories, and connection.

We found ourselves looking down often, reading names and wondering about the stories behind them.

A Place of Joy and Remembrance

While the park is full of life today, it also holds space for reflection.

During the 1996 Summer Olympics, this was the site of the tragic Centennial Olympic Park bombing.

There is a quiet memorial plaque within Centennial Olympic Park honoring those affected, including Alice Hawthorne and Melih Uzunyol.

Things to Do at Centennial Olympic Park with Kids

If you’re visiting with kids, this park is such a great stop:

  • Splash and play at the Fountain of Rings
  • Run and relax in the open green spaces
  • Take photos with the Olympic rings and skyline
  • Walk to nearby attractions like the Georgia Aquarium and World of Coca-Cola

It’s very walkable and easy to add into your downtown plans.

Tips for Visiting

  • Go early or later in the day to avoid heat and crowds
  • Bring towels or a change of clothes if your kids want to play in the fountain
  • Wear comfortable shoes—you’ll want to explore all the details
  • Plan nearby stops to make the most of your time downtown ( check out a few of the stops we did below)

What makes Centennial Olympic Park so special isn’t just what you see, it’s what each piece represents.

From the torch that once lit up the world stage, to symbols of perseverance, to the names etched into the ground… it all comes together to tell a story of unity, resilience, and legacy.

Continue Exploring Atlanta

Planning more adventures in Atlanta? Here are a few other family-friendly spots we enjoyed during our trip:

family adventures, Hawaii, hiking, history, Review, travel

Hiking Diamond Head Crater in Oʻahu: What to Know Before You Go

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Hiking Diamond Head Crater was high on our list for our trip to Oʻahu and even though we didn’t plan ahead as much as we should have, it still turned out to be one of our favorite experiences.

We ended up booking a later reservation time since earlier slots were already taken. I wasn’t sure how hiking later in the day would go, but honestly it worked out beautifully.

First Impressions: Expect Crowds

Every review we read mentioned crowds… and they weren’t wrong.

Even later in the day, the trail was still very busy. But don’t let that discourage you, this hike is popular for a reason, and the flow of people tends to keep moving.

Once we parked and got started, the trail began with a gradual incline. It feels easy at first, almost deceptively so.

The Climb: What It’s Really Like

As you continue upward, the trail starts to pick up. There are sections with metal railings for support, which can be helpful depending on your comfort level.

Then comes the first set of stairs.

After climbing those, you pass through a tunnel (which was such a fun surprise), and that’s where you’ll face a choice:

  • Go right → steeper, more direct route
  • Go left → longer, more gradual incline

We chose the steeper route and I’m so glad we did.

It was definitely more intense, but it made the rest of the hike feel easier. Plus, I wouldn’t have wanted to descend those steep stairs later on.

From there, you’ll climb more stairs, pass through another tunnel, and wind your way up into a historic bunker.

The hardest part? Climbing up and out of that bunker.

But once you do… the reward is incredible.

The View: Worth Every Step

At the top, you’re greeted with sweeping views of the bright blue Pacific Ocean and the coastline of Oʻahu.

It is crowded at the summit, and space is limited, so you may need to be patient. But even with the crowds, we were able to pause, catch our breath, and take it all in.

We continued up to an even higher platform, where the views got even better. From there, you can even spot Koko Head in the distance.

And on our way down? We were treated to a beautiful rainbow, something we saw almost daily on the island. Now I completely understand why Hawaii is called the Rainbow State.

Heading down was much easier. It was fun to look back and see just how far we had climbed and to cheer on other hikers making their way up.

Despite the crowds, everything felt manageable, and the trail was well marked and easy to follow.

History of Diamond Head

Diamond Head Crater, known in Hawaiian as Lēʻahi, is a volcanic crater and one of the most recognizable landmarks on Oʻahu.

In the early 1900s, the U.S. military used the crater as a strategic lookout point to defend the island. Many of the tunnels, staircases, and bunkers you hike through today were built during that time adding a unique historical element to the hike.

Parking & Reservations

  • Reservations required: All visitors (including out of state guests) must book a timed entry in advance
  • Parking: Limited parking is available inside the crater
  • Parking fee: Typically around $10 per vehicle (subject to change)
  • Entry fee: Per person fee for non-residents
  • Hours: Usually open from 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM (last entry around 4:00 PM)

💡 Tip: If you don’t get an early reservation, don’t stress…late afternoon can still be a great time to go!

Hiking Facts

  • Distance: ~1.6 miles round trip
  • Elevation gain: ~560 feet
  • Difficulty: Moderate
  • Trail type: Out and back
  • Time to complete: 1.5–2 hours (depending on pace and crowds)

Tips for Hiking Diamond Head

  • Go early or later in the day to avoid peak heat
  • Bring water…there’s very little shade
  • Wear good shoes (stairs + uneven terrain)
  • Be prepared for crowds and narrow sections
  • Take your time on the stairs…they can be steep
  • Don’t skip the bunkers…they’re part of the experience
  • Keep an eye out for rainbows 🌈

I’m so thankful we were able to fit this hike into our trip. Between the history, the views, and the experience of climbing through tunnels and bunkers, it’s truly one of those “only in Hawaiʻi” adventures.

Even with the crowds, it was absolutely worth it!

Planning your trip to Hawaii? Don’t miss our other Oʻahu adventures, including hikes, beaches, and family friendly travel tips to help you make the most of your time on the island ✨

coffee, pnw, Review, travel

A Beautiful Coffee Shop with a Mission: Discovering Anchor House Coffee

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Missed turns sometimes lead to the best places🤍

After finishing one of our training hikes, we missed a turn and unexpectedly found ourselves in the charming town of Buckley. What could have been a simple navigation mistake turned into one of the sweetest surprises.

From the moment you walk in, there’s an undeniable warmth. Every detail feels intentional and beautifully curated without feeling overdone. The space manages to be both elevated and deeply cozy, like stepping into a friend’s home where you’re instantly invited to stay awhile.

Despite the steady flow of customers when we arrived, there was a calm, welcoming atmosphere. No rush. No pressure. Just a space that invites you to breathe, sit, and connect.

The pastries, displayed on charming, unique serving platters, felt like little works of art. It’s the kind of place where even choosing what to order becomes part of the experience.

And then there’s the cozy library corner… the kind of nook that makes you want to gather close with friends. We couldn’t help but imagine ourselves like C.S. Lewis and J.R.R. Tolkien, tucked into deep conversation, dreaming up stories and sharing ideas.

Part of what makes Anchor House Coffee so special is the sense that it’s rooted in something deeper than just great coffee. Like many buildings in historic Buckley, this space carries the character of the town’s early days, when Buckley thrived as a logging community in the late 1800s and early 1900s.

While the space has been thoughtfully restored and reimagined, you can still feel that connection to the past in its bones. The charm isn’t manufactured, it’s preserved. It’s a beautiful reminder of how places can be renewed while still honoring their story.

One of the most impactful details in the shop isn’t just aesthetic, it’s purposeful.

Above the bar, signage draws your attention to Love Justice International, a nonprofit dedicated to preventing human trafficking and protecting the vulnerable around the world.

This isn’t just a passive mention, it’s an invitation.

Through donations and awareness, this coffee shop is helping connect everyday moments like ordering your favorite drink , to something far greater. It’s a powerful reminder that even small choices can contribute to justice, freedom, and hope for others.

There’s something incredibly meaningful about sipping coffee in a place that cares deeply about people, not just locally, but globally.

What started as a missed turn became a moment we won’t forget.

Anchor House Coffee isn’t just a coffee stop, it’s an experience. It’s a place where beauty, community, history, and purpose all come together in a way that feels genuine and life-giving.

And maybe that’s the real takeaway: Sometimes the unexpected detours lead you exactly where you’re meant to be 🤍

If you love discovering cozy coffee spots like Anchor House Coffee, you might enjoy a few of our other Pacific Northwest coffee shop reviews ⬇️

Thirsty Coffee Bar Review
But First Coffee ☕️
Book, Book Club, faith, reading, Review

February Book Club Pick: The Crown Conspiracy Review

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Our February Book Club pick was The Crown Conspiracy by Connie Mann and oh my goodness… I absolutely loved this book.

If you enjoy stories that feel like Mission Impossible meets James Bond, but woven with threads of faith and purpose, this one will grab you from the start. It was action packed, fast paced, and nearly impossible to put down.

In fact, I started by reading just a few chapters at a time… but once I reached about a quarter of the way through, I ended up devouring the entire book in one sitting. It was that good.

What I Loved

One of my favorite elements was the Speranza women’s team. The strength, loyalty, and sisterhood between these women was powerful and inspiring. It makes you reflect on the beauty of strong, faith filled friendships and honestly, it made me want to start a secret sisterhood like that in real life…Anyone else?

I also appreciated how the storylines wove together. There were moments when plot lines crossed in surprising ways, keeping the suspense high and the tension building. The pacing was strong, and the stakes felt real.

And I especially loved how faith was woven throughout the story. It wasn’t heavy handed but it was present. God’s guidance, trust in uncertain moments, and leaning into courage during danger added a deeper layer to the action.

A Few Things I Would Have Loved to See

While I thoroughly enjoyed the book, there were a couple of areas where I found myself wanting a bit more clarity.

I would have loved if the author had circled back more clearly to the first chapter bridging that opening moment with the events that followed in a stronger way.

And when the big reveal came at the end, I personally felt like a few threads weren’t fully tied up. I finished the book thinking:

  • Wait… what happened there?
  • What was the final story with that character?
  • More than one culprit?

Some of those details felt a little unclear to me, and I’m very curious to hear what the rest of our Book Club thinks when we meet to discuss it. It’s always interesting how different readers catch different things.

Final Thoughts

Overall, The Crown Conspiracy was an exciting, faith threaded suspense novel that kept me turning pages late into the night. If you enjoy:

  • Strong female characters
  • International intrigue
  • Fast pace
  • Faith woven into action
  • Sisterhood themes

… this one is definitely worth adding to your reading list

More Book Reviews You Might Enjoy

If you loved this review, you might also enjoy these other books we’ve read in our book club:

These are all books that sparked meaningful conversations and encouraged our faith in different ways.

Hawaii, history, travel

No Mountain Too High: A Hawaiian Reminder of Perseverance

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“‘Aʻohe puʻu kiʻekiʻe ke hoʻāʻo ʻia e piʻi.”

This beautiful Hawaiian proverb reminds us that no hill is too high when you are willing to climb it.

Standing on the islands, surrounded by dramatic cliffs, lush valleys, and volcanic peaks, it’s easy to see how this wisdom was born. Every mountain looks intimidating from the bottom. The path isn’t always clear, and sometimes the climb feels slow and exhausting.

But step by step, the summit gets closer.

This proverb isn’t just about physical mountains. It speaks to the challenges we face in everyday life, raising families, pursuing dreams, healing from hard seasons, or trusting God in uncertain moments.

What once looked impossible becomes reachable when we keep moving forward.

For our family, adventure has taught us this truth again and again. The hardest hikes often lead to the most breathtaking views. The same is true in life: perseverance reveals beauty we would never see if we stopped at the base of the mountain.

So wherever you are today, remember this Hawaiian wisdom:

No mountain is too high when you’re willing to take the next step.

Check out a few of the beautiful hikes we did in Oahu where this was a great reminder ✨

Hawaii, hiking, history, Review, travel

Hiking the Lanikai Pillbox Trail with Kids: What to Expect + Tips

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The views! Known as the “Mokes”

Our very first hike on Oʻahu was the Ka’iwa Ridge Trail (also known as the Lanikai Pillbox Hike) and we were so excited to finally see what the famous pillboxes were all about.

Before we even started, though, we were met with something that made us almost rethink doing this hike …a warning sign at the trailhead explaining that hikers have needed rescue here. We decided that we would just try it and if it was to difficult we would turn back.We assumed the warning was because the trail was short and steep,so we didn’t fully grasp or understand what the sign meant at the time .

The warning

Looking back… the rope at the beginning should have been our first clue.

The rope to help you as you climb

What the Trail Is Really Like

Right from the start, the incline is no joke. It’s steep, dusty, and requires a bit of grabbing the rope to pull yourself up which was especially helpful for little ones. That rope at the beginning? Definitely not just for decoration.

As we climbed higher, we quickly realized something we hadn’t fully expected… this trail is truly a ridge. At times, you are walking along a narrow path with drop-offs on both sides. For those of us who aren’t the biggest fans of heights, this added a whole new level of challenge.

But the views!! They completely stopped us in our tracks.

Ko’olau Mountain Range

From the ridge, you can see the turquoise waters of Lanikai Beach and the iconic Mokulua Islands (often called “the Mokes”) rising out of the ocean. It felt like we could see for miles each direction . It was breathtaking, humbling, and absolutely worth every hard step.

Reaching the Pillboxes

We took our time climbing, encouraging one another as we went, until we reached a flatter section…a small plateau. From there, we had our first glimpse of the first pillbox .

It was such an exciting moment when we reached the pillbox! Standing there, seeing people on top of it, taking in the views…it felt like such a reward. The steep drop offs are crazy around it so our family chose to stay on one side and not climb on top, even though others were.It was still an unbelievable experience just standing next to it!

From that first pillbox, you can also spot the second one just a short distance away…about 100 yards further along the ridge.

The Descent (The Real Challenge)

If the climb up tested our endurance, the way down tested our balance.

The trail is dry and dusty, and the dirt can be very slippery , especially on the steep sections. It almost feels like your feet want to slide out from under you, which made this part especially tricky for our little ones.

We slowed way down, took careful steps, and helped each other navigate every section safely.

Heading back down

The People Made It Even Better

One of the sweetest parts of this hike was the community on the trail.

Strangers cheering each other on, both going up and coming down, created such an encouraging atmosphere. There’s something special about shared challenge and shared beauty that brings people together.

A glimpse of the ridge line

History of the Pillboxes

One of the reasons we really wanted to do this hike was the history behind it.

The pillboxes you see along the trail were built during World War II as military observation stations. Their purpose was to help spot incoming ships or aircraft and protect the island from potential attacks.

Today, they stand as historical reminders of that time, while also offering some of the most scenic viewpoints on Oʻahu.

Parking & Trailhead Info

  • Location: The trailhead is located in the Lanikai neighborhood in Kailua
  • Parking:
    • Street parking is available along residential roads near the trailhead
    • There is a Golf Course parking area that is monitored where you can pay for parking ( We did this and made it easier for parking and safety)
    • Be mindful of posted signs and respect the neighborhood (no blocking driveways)
    • Arrive early…parking fills up quickly
  • Distance: ~1.6 miles round trip ( it took us just over an hour round trip )
  • Elevation Gain: ~500–600 feet
  • Trail Type: Out and back
  • Best Time to Go: Sunrise , Sunset or early morning (less heat, fewer crowds)

Final Thoughts

By the time we made it back down, we were tired, dusty, and so thankful that we did it .

For a relatively short hike, this one truly challenged us, but the views? Absolutely priceless.

Would we do it again?

Without hesitation…yes!!!!

Check out our reel of our hike ⬇️

Check out our other hikes and must see in Oahu ⬇️

Koko Head Crater Trail Guide: Hiking the Stairs in Oahu with Kids
The Moana Surfrider: First Lady of Waikiki

Hawaii, hiking, history, Review, travel

Koko Head Crater Trail Guide: Hiking the Stairs in Oahu with Kids

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Climbing Koko Head Crater Trail .. looking back down as we were climbing

We planned several hikes during our trip to Hawaii and knew the Koko Head Crater Trail hike was one we wanted to challenge ourselves with as a family . It’s also known as the Koko Stairs of Doom or Pu’u Mai Stairs .

First glimpse of the trail and we could see dots for people !
Warning!

Even before we reached the trailhead, we knew this hike was going to be something different. It was already busy, and as we looked up, we could see tiny people scattered along the ridge….like little specks climbing straight into the sky. But nothing quite prepared us for that moment when we were standing at the very bottom and looked up.

It felt… intense.

We started out by praying for strength and thanking God for allowing us to be there and that this was a “get to” for our family . We then started the only way we could …one step at a time.

Starting the trail
Continuing to climb

The steps are no joke! They are about 12 to 15 inches high and about that in width as well and because the trail follows an old railway trestle, the footing is uneven. Some steps were solid beams, others required stepping between them, and in places, the dirt was worn away completely. It would be so easy to twist an ankle or slip if you’re not paying attention, so we did our best to stay focused.

Every now and then though,we found a rhythm stepping beam to beam, and those moments felt like a huge win .

One of the most encouraging parts? The people. You see everyone on this trail…families, athletes, locals. One guy passed us multiple times, clearly training up and down the mountain. We heard later that many locals actually use this as a weekly workout and honestly, if this were in our backyard, we would too.

During our hike, we experienced a little bit of everything … rain, sun, then rain again. It was wild. Definitely come prepared for changing weather.One thing to definitely be ready for: there is zero shade except for the occasional bush you can step to side to try to get shade so sunscreen,hat ,cooling towel and sunglasses are must!

We had also heard about the “bypass” section of the trail. It is a part where the track is open underneath, and you definitely don’t want to fall through. I hadn’t been able to find good pictures beforehand, so I wasn’t sure what to expect. Thankfully, it’s a short scramble around the exposed section and much safer than trying to cross the broken trestle.Especially with little ones.

Bypass Section
This is what the bypass looks like so a short scramble around

As we climbed , we cheered each other on, and even encouraged others along the way. One of my favorite things about hiking is sharing the struggle with others on the trail .

To keep things fun, we started counting steps. Hitting 500 felt like a victory. Then 700. Around 750 is where the final climb really kicks in and it’s steep. There were sections where we were on all fours, just pulling ourselves up. Check out the picture below ⬇️

My youngest waited off to the side for that part , I honestly don’t know how she would have managed it safely, especially coming back down or maybe I should say how I would have managed it watching her try to go back down! It was steep!

After all the hard work we were so excited to see the neon green bunker and push to the top …So thankful we had made it to the top!!

Seeing our first glimpse of the bunker
We made it!!
You can go a little more around the top by continuing the stairs
First views!
So sweaty but so worth it!! Praise be to God!

The view was absolutely breathtaking. I soaked in that moment and praised God …grateful for the strength to get there and the chance to take it all in.

Taking in the beauty

We took turns going up since part of our family had stayed behind with our littlest, and once everyone had their moment at the top, we were ready to head down.

And let me just say…

Going down was no easier.It was slow and careful. At times it felt like one wrong step and you could tumble forward. In some sections, turning around and climbing down on all fours was the safest option and plenty of people were doing the same .

Heading back down

Eventually, the trail leveled out, and we made our way back down. It felt like we had been out there all day but in reality, we clocked just over two hours.

Looking back at what we just did!!! Wow!!

And every single step?

Worth it.

What You Should Know Before Hiking Koko Head

📍 Location & Parking

The trailhead is located inside Koko Head District Park.

Parking: Free lot available at the park Restrooms: Available near the parking area Tip: Arrive early …this is a very popular hike and fills up quickly

🕒 Hours & Best Time to Go

The park is generally open from sunrise to sunset but keep in mind there are no lights on the trail, so hiking in the dark isn’t recommended.

Best time to hike:

Early morning (before 9 AM) for cooler temps Late afternoon for golden hour views (but plan enough time to get down before dark)

🪜 Trail Details

Distance: ~1.6 miles round trip

Elevation gain: ~1,200 feet Stairs: Approximately 1,048 steps

These aren’t normal stairs…they’re old railway ties, which makes footing uneven and part of what makes this hike so challenging.

⚠️ Safety Tips

No shade … bring lots of water, sunscreen, and a hat

Wear sturdy shoes (not flip flops!)

Watch your footing …uneven steps and loose areas

Use the bypass trail at the broken trestle section (especially with kids) See the pic in our post .

Take your time going down…it can be just as hard as going up

📖 A Little History

What makes this hike even more interesting is its past and one of the reasons we really wanted to do this hike. Hike + History = Win!!!!

The stairs you’re climbing were originally built during World War II. The railway was used by the U.S. military to transport supplies up to a military radar site at the top of Koko Head.

After the war, the track fell into disrepair .In a partnership between the the city and Kokonut Koalition ,a volunteer group dedicated to protecting and preserving the Koko Crater stairs ,there has been work done to restore and protect this piece of history . It has since become one of Oahu’s most iconic hikes.

Today, those old railroad ties have turned into the “stairs” that challenge thousands of hikers each year.

❤️ Why It’s Worth It

It’s the kind of experience that pushes you, slows you down, and brings your family together in the best way. Between the challenge, the people you meet along the way, and the incredible views at the top and being steeped in history , it’s something you won’t forget.

Check out our reel ⬇️

Check out some more of our adventures in Hawaii ⬇️

The Moana Surfrider: First Lady of Waikiki

Gathered thoughts, Hawaii, travel

Beyond the Scenery: The True Beauty of Hawaiʻi’s People

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Nani ke kanaka a me ka naʻau 🌺
Beautiful is the person and the heart.
⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
Hawaiʻi is filled with breathtaking views, but what stood out to us most was the beauty of the people ,the kindness, the warmth, and the spirit of aloha.
⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀

If you really want to experience the beauty of Hawaiʻi, take the time to slow down and connect. Talk with the people. Listen to their stories. Let them talk story..which is sharing pieces of their life, their island, their history.So much rich detail in these moments . That’s where the real beauty lives✨

Not just in the landscapes…but in the voices, the laughter, and the hearts of the people who call these islands home.

A sweet reminder that true beauty isn’t just what we see… it’s how we love. 💛

Check out our other post ⬇️


⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀

faith, family adventures, Hawaii, Review, travel

The Moana Surfrider: First Lady of Waikiki

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We were drawn to the Moana Surfrider Hotel, not just for its stunning oceanfront location on Waikiki Beach , but for the history it holds and to step into a piece of history that has stood for over a century .One that has welcomed travelers long before Waikiki became what it is today.

For our family, it was the perfect combination of everything we love: history to learn from, beauty to take in, and a location that simply can’t be matched.

The Moana Surfrider Hotel is one of the very first hotels built in Waikiki, Oahu and because of that, it holds an incredibly special place in Hawaiian history. Opened in 1901, it is often referred to as the “First Lady of Waikiki.” Long before high-rise resorts lined the shoreline, the Moana stood as a grand beacon of luxury on what was once a quiet stretch of beach.

It is absolutely beautiful and sits directly on Waikiki Beach, blending Victorian elegance with the relaxed rhythm of island life.

When we walked in, we immediately felt like we had stepped back in time. The wide open lobby, high ceilings, and sweeping staircase reflect the hotel’s original Victorian architectural style, which was quite a statement in the early 1900s. At the time it was built, arriving guests would travel by ship and horse-drawn carriage . Can you imagine stepping off a boat and into this grand oceanfront retreat?

As we walked through the lobby and out the back doors, we were greeted by a spacious veranda lined with rocking chairs … one of my favorite details. Sitting there with coffee in hand felt like slowing down time and savoring it in the best way.

The famous Banyan tree is front and center welcoming all to the natural beauty of the Island . Planted in 1904, just a few years after the hotel opened, the Banyan tree has grown into a massive, breathtaking centerpiece of the courtyard. Its branches stretch wide and welcoming, creating shade and a gathering place for generations of visitors. It’s incredible to think how many stories that tree has witnessed over more than a century.We felt so privileged to be able to stand there where so many others had gathered before.

The outside pool is beautiful …you can swim while looking out at the Pacific Ocean, or simply walk a few steps and be right on Waikiki Beach itself. That seamless connection between historic elegance and oceanfront beauty is part of what makes this place so special.

The hotel reminded me of a beautiful old-style mansion , the kind filled with stories. Oh if the walls could talk! Over the decades it has hosted celebrities, dignitaries, and travelers from around the world. Even through renovations and modernization, the Moana Surfrider has intentionally preserved its historic charm.

Staying here (or even just visiting) isn’t just about enjoying a beautiful resort , it’s about stepping into a piece of Hawaiian history.

But the story doesn’t stop at the hotel itself ✨

Waikiki: From Royal Retreat to World Destination

Long before Waikiki became a world-famous travel destination, it was actually a retreat for Hawaiian royalty. The area was once filled with wetlands and fishponds, and Hawaiian aliʻi (chiefs and royalty) would come here to relax and surf.

In the late 1800s and early 1900s, Waikiki began transforming as tourism grew. When the Moana Surfrider opened in 1901, it became the very first large hotel in the area, setting the stage for Waikiki’s future. At that time, there were no high-rise hotels, no bustling Kalakaua Avenue , just ocean, palm trees, and this grand white hotel standing proudly along the shore.

Over the years, Waikiki evolved into the vibrant destination we know today. But the Moana Surfrider still stands as a reminder of the beginning …a place where history hasn’t been forgotten.It is also listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

One of the things I love most about staying somewhere historic is the opportunity to turn it into a living history lesson.

📚 A Living History Lesson Here are a few simple ways to make this educational:

History

Research Hawaii’s transition from a monarchy to a U.S. territory (1898) and then to statehood (1959).

Study Hawaiian royalty and learn about Queen Liliʻuokalani.

Compare what travel looked like in 1901 vs. today.

Geography

Locate Oahu on a map and identify other Hawaiian islands. Study volcanic island formation.

Architecture

Look up Victorian architectural elements and identify them in the hotel design.

Writing Prompt for Kids

“Imagine you are arriving at the Moana Surfrider in 1901. Write a journal entry about your first impressions.”

If you find yourself in Waikiki, don’t just admire the beach , step inside the Moana Surfrider. Sit under the Banyan tree. Imagine the year 1901.

Travel becomes unforgettable when it connects beauty with learning.

The Moana Surfrider is so much more than just a beautiful place to stay. It’s steeped in rich history✨

The same God who was writing stories here over a hundred years ago is still writing them today , even in our own family’s journey.

That’s what I’ll carry with me most from this visit … not just the ocean views or the historic charm, but the reminder that God is present in every season… past and present.

And when we choose to travel with intention, to learn, to reflect, and to be present , those moments become more than memories.They become part of the story we’re living, too.

Check out our reel of this beautiful Hotel ⬇️ and be sure to subscribe 🩷

And check out more of our post on Hawaii ⬇️

Beyond the Scenery: The True Beauty of Hawaiʻi’s People
faith, Gathered thoughts

What If One Kind Word Changed Everything?

redeemingbeautyfamilyadventures

Recently I was sitting at Starbucks doing some planning when I overheard a conversation at the table next to me. A teenage girl was talking with her friend about the dynamics of her family.

I tried not to listen, but certain phrases caught my attention.

“My dad doesn’t really know how to love.”

“He isn’t kind.”

“I think my mom’s favorite is my sister… she doesn’t really talk to me.”

My heart broke as I listened.

What struck me most was not that she sounded sad. Instead, she spoke as if she had already accepted this as normal, as if this was simply what family was supposed to be like. That’s what made my heart ache the most.

I sat there trying to gather the words I might say to her. I knew I couldn’t just let her leave thinking she was unlovable or that this was simply the way life had to be.

Quick words have never been my strength , so as I was trying to figure out what to say, I prayed a silent prayer.As she stood up to leave, I found the courage to speak.

“I’m so sorry but couldn’t help but to overhear part of your conversation. I just wanted to say I’m really sorry for what you’ve experienced.”

I apologized to her for the way she had been treated, even though I wasn’t the one who hurt her. I told her that sometimes people simply don’t know how to love well. But that she is worthy of love.

I told her she has the opportunity to learn something different through this pain and to become someone who loves well, even if she didn’t receive it herself.

She thanked me and was very kind.

But as she walked away, I immediately thought of all the things I should have said.

I should have asked if I could give her a hug.

I wish I had shared my faith more clearly.

Instead, I tried to find a way to connect with her without sounding like some strange woman inserting myself into her life in a random moment .. but then it made me think.. why? Why was I worried over that instead of looking at it as an opportunity to love?

Why is it sometimes so hard to encourage others or show love , especially to people we don’t know?

There so many people who have accepted the lie that they are unlovable and for so many reasons . Sometimes it’s because of circumstances.Sometimes it’s self-preservation.Sometimes it’s simply the story they’ve been told long enough to believe.

But what if we chose to love people and to step out of our comfort zones ?

Even strangers.

What if one small moment of kindness could change the direction of someone’s life?

Recently I’ve been reading about D.L. Moody, and one story about him stood out to me. Early in his life, an elderly man gave him a single penny just for walking with him, listening, and encouraging him in his faith.

It was such a small interaction.

Yet Moody never forgot it.

I’ve also been reading the book The Body Keeps Score, which discusses how early environments shape behavior. One study described two groups of mice: one raised in a nest with warmth and plenty of food, and another raised in a poor, stressful environment.

When both groups were frightened by a loud noise, they ran back to their nests ,whether the environment was good or bad.

It made me pause.

Even when something is unhealthy, we often return to what feels familiar.

Maybe that teenage girl has learned to run back to the only “home” she knows …even if it isn’t the love she deserves.

And maybe that’s why small moments of kindness matter more than we realize.

A word.

An apology.

A reminder that someone is worthy of love.

Perhaps those moments plant seeds that grow later.

And maybe the next time I feel the nudge to speak kindness into someone’s life, I won’t hesitate.

Because sometimes a single moment of love or kindness can echo far longer than we could ever imagine ❤️

“Let us not love with words or speech but with actions and in truth.” 1 John 3:18

Have you ever had a moment where you felt prompted to encourage a stranger? Or where a stranger’s kindness impacted you?

I’d love to hear your story in the comments ✨

Gathered Thoughts