I flew out to Hawaii on Sunday, August 12th.  I went with my friend Kristy to visit my friend Andrew who is in the Army.  He is stationed at Schofield Barracks in the middle of O'ahu.
The moment I stepped out of the airport I knew I was going to have a good time.  The air was so fresh and clean.  It was sunny and warm, with no humidity.  All the stress and frustration of the 10-hour plane ride instantly melted away with one deep breath of the Hawaiian air.  I also saw at least a dozen rainbows, which justifies Hawaii being called "The Rainbow State."
I stayed at the Ilikai Hotel in Waikiki, on the 16th floor (just like Office Services!).  I had a great view of the city and mountains, and the beach was literally down the elevator and outside the lobby.  Relaxing on the beach consisted of much of my vacation, as I soaked up the rays and swam in the crystal clear water.  Aside from the beach outside my hotel (Duke Kahanamoku Beach Park), I also visited Waimea Bay, Haleiwa Beach, and Hanauma Bay.  Hanauma Bay was simply breathtaking.  Although I didn't do any snorkling there, it is the perfect place due to the thousands of fish that swim around the coral reef underwater.
As for sightseeing, I visted the Dole Plantation, and walked around in the "World's Largest Garden Maze."  I only got lost once!  I also scaled Diamond Head, a dead volcano on the south part of the island.  The 45-minute ascent is justified by the spectacular view from the top.  You can see all of Waikiki and Honolulu, as well as miles into the ocean.
And there was plenty of shopping.  You could easily go broke in an hour.  I visited the Ala Moana Shopping Center, with 4 levels and hundreds of stores, ranging from Sunglass Hut (hey we have one here in the TC!) to Emporio Armani.  It puts Tysons Corner to shame!  I also went shopping on the strip in Waikiki, with dozens of street venders selling jewelry, watches, lighters, souveniors, and more.  I picked up a Swiss-Army-Butane-Lighter-Knife-Keychain thing which is pretty cool.
I didn't want to leave.  I could definitely see myself living there one day.  In fact, I think Cooley Godward should open an office there (hint hint!).