Fourth of July in Waikiki

July 4, 2010

Happy fourth of July! We spent most of today at the beach watching the annual Outrigger canoe race and hanging out with our friend Waikiki Jenny. The energy on the beach was awesome - everyone was so excited - tourists and locals alike. The races start early in the morning with the little kids and then progress to the adults later in the day. The adult races leave from the shore and then paddle out about a quarter mile and then paddle back. The waves were pretty big so it was a little challenging for them to paddle back in - we saw two canoes capsize while coming back. Luckily everyone was fine and the crowds helped to ease the canoes back into the shore.

Our surfing for the day was curtailed because of the races - they closed off part of Canoes - the area we usually surf- so there were twice as many people trying catch waves. The best part of paddling out wasn’t catching anything, but just being way out and watching the races from there. Outside of where the waves were breaking a bunch of sail boats had anchored to watch the canoe races and were basically having a floating party. When Dylan paddled out he saw that a huge pontoon boat had arrived with a full band playing on it! Rather than compete for the waves, he paddled out to the party and had a beer with them - we are already planning on how to be there for next year’s celebration.

Emma and David had a great day surfing. Jenny (she is a surf instructor) took them out in the water and pushed them into oncoming waves. It took a few rounds, but pretty soon they were feeling comfortable and trying to stand up! They both loved it and didn’t want to get out.

We ended today with mai-tais, sunset and dinner at Duke’s on beach. We didn’t end up making it to the fireworks but it was still a great send off to Japan tomorrow!

Emma standing up!

David catching a wave (and Daddy catching him)!