1. My father was stationed in Hawaii, approximately 1938. Army.
He had memories of being on the beach in the evening, listening to the steel guitars playing in the hotels. He was taught swimming by Duke Kahanamoko. One of my memories of Dad was as a graceful swimmer. Watching him swim was as watching a ballet.
He and my mom went back, in the mid 80's. He was quite disappointed. Noisy, over-built tourist trap.
2. Well, you know, it was paradise and then tourism
Made Waikiki much different. I think the 80s were a low point. Setting aside the part where 90% of the people died from introduced diseases following Cook’s arrival. Because that happened. Can you imagine?
I could tell you all the lovely parts and that you can be here for a lifetime and never go to Waikiki but you have your story and it’s all there is. Ok, braddah. Hawai’i sucks
Imagine how we feel! Our grandparents and great grandparents only went to Waikiki to party.