Amazing Race Winners Will & James Share Dream Trip to Hawaii

Hawaii is always an iconic vacation destination, and for Will Jardell and James Wallington (fiances and recent winners of The Amazing Race), it was an obvious destination for their first post-pandemic vacation. In this exclusive, Will & James share their experiences and photos!

We traveled to Oahu which is known as “the gathering place” and most populous of the Hawaiian Islands. The island is a favorite vacation spot for millions of travelers and remains open for travelers if you follow the steps necessary to protect yourself and others. From the serene beaches, helicopter tour of the island, delicious food, and comfortable accommodations at the Laylow Hotel Waikiki, we hope that as you begin to get back OUT there you will be inspired to put Hawaii on the top of your list. The Hawaiian Islands offer something for everyone and to highlight a few activities, take a look at some pictures of our time on the island.

The Laylow Autograph Collection - Waikiki

Our room at the Laylow Waikiki featured and vibrant palm tree wallpaper that elevated the vintage Hawaiian accents. When we weren't exploring the island, we lounged by the pool and enjoyed the cozy fire pits on the lush garden lanai.

Instagram: @laylowwaikiki

Laylow Waikki

From our top floor corner room's balcony we had incredible 180-degree views of Waikiki Beach, Diamond Head volcano, and the city of Honolulu. Waikiki's beaches host surf competitions, outdoor concerts, hula dancing, and outrigger canoe races.

The Hideout

The Hideoutlocated at the Laylow Hotel is a hidden gem tucked away above Kuhio Avenue, serving Modern Hapa Hawaiian cuisine, like Wonton Poke Tacos, Ahi Poke rice bowls, and Kampachi Crudo.

Instagram: @hideoutwaikiki

Touring the island of Oahu with Blue Hawaiian Helicopters

We toured the island of Oahu. The fifty minute cross-island ride with Blue Hawaiian Helicopters gave us an amazing aerial veiw of the the state capital, Honolulu.

Ho’omaluhia Botanical Gardens

In the beautiful Ho’omaluhia Botanical Gardens, tropical plants fan out across 400 glorious acres on the Island of Oahu. Visiting the gardens is free so you can take multiple days to explore.

Instagram: @hoomaluhiabotanicalgarden

Ho’omaluhia Botanical Gardens

Ho’omaluhia Botanical Gardens

Lanikai Beach

We swam in the tranquil aqua blue waters off Lanikai Beach, Oahu's most beautiful beach. The world famous Mokulua Islands can be seen about a mile off shore behind us. The islands serve as sanctuaries for tropical birds.

Instagram: #lanikaibeach 

Lōkahi Kailua Market

The Lōkahi Kailua Market is open every Sunday from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM in the heart of Kailua, on the east coast of Oahu. The farmer's market features local vendors, artists, and food. 

Matsumoto Shave Ice

The world famous Matsumoto Shave Ice in the historic town of Haleiwa has been serving delicious shaved ice since 1951. Still family owned, the shop is on the North Shore of Oahu.

Pearl Harbor National Memorial

The Pearl Harbor National Memorial in Honolulu honors those killed in the World War II bombing of Honolulu harbor. It is home to the USS Arizona, USS Oklahoma, and USS Utah Memorials.

Instagram: @pearlharbornps

Waimea Falls

Waimea Valley features beautiful botanical gardens, cultural sites, and this waterfall where travelers can take a dip. Located on the North Shore of Oahu Waimea Valley is open 7 days a week from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM and costs $20 for each adult.

Instagram: @waimeavalleyoahu

Kailua Bay

Kayaking together in Kailua Bay. We rented equipment from Kailua Beach Adventures for the day. We love the company for its commitment to sustainability and ongoing island restoration projects. From Kailua Beach you can kayak or paddle board to the small islands right off the coast; the flat island Popoi, Lanikai Beach, or The Mokuluas twin islands.

Instagram: @kailuakayaks

North Shore of Oahu

The North Shore of Oahu features many unique beaches Waimea Bay Beach Park, Three Tables Beach, Sunset Beach, Haleiwa Beach Park, Laniakea Beach, Banzai Pipeline, and Pupukea Beach Park), each one offering something different. Here we are at Kawela Bay/Turtle Bay catching the sunset on the final day of our trip.

Instagram: @gohawaii