Do you need a Hawaiian beach vacation as much as I do? Well, book that trip to Scottsdale because we’ve got your Hawaii right here. Yes, you read that correctly, I said Scottsdale. . . as in Arizona. From delicious Hawaiian food and tropical tiki drinks to swaying palm trees and white sand beaches, Scottsdale brings all the Hawaiian vibes to the mainland. Check out these tropical Scottsdale vacation spots:
Stay
You know those white sand beaches I mentioned earlier? Well, the Fairmont Scottsdale Princess’ Sunset Beach offers 830 tons of beautiful white sand surrounding their newest and largest pool at the Princess. Relax under palm trees in over-sized beach chairs with your toes in the sand and a drink in your hand.
Did you think surfing was just for the ocean? Wrong! You can catch some serious swell at the Westin Kierland on their FlowRider. This wave simulator will make you feel like you are surfing the North Shore of Oahu in no time.
Eat
After you’ve checked into your Hawaiian paradise you will need to find a good Hawaiian-style restaurant! Pop on over to HULA’s Modern Tiki, Scottsdale’s modern twist on the classic tiki bars and restaurants of the 50s and 60s. Sip one of their tropical cocktails like the Pink Bikini Martini or Hula’s Hurricane while you snack on Island-style Poke and crispy shrimp rolls. Listen closely and you can almost hear the rustle of palm trees and the sound of crashing waves.
You can also refuel at two Hawaiian hotspots that began in the Aloha State and found themselves on the mainland in Scottsdale. Munch on some delicious fish tacos at Coconuts or quench your thirst with a handcrafted WowWow Hawaiian Lemonade.
Play
The night is young and there is still so much of Hawaii in Scottsdale to explore. My favorite spot happens to be a small underground tiki bar called, The Undertow. Located inside Century Grand in Arcadia, The Undertow makes you feel as if you are aboard a pirate ship while you sip on some of the coolest tiki-inspired drinks I’ve ever seen!
Recharge
Ready to get your Hawaiian Zen on? Hawaiian Experience Spa offers facials and body treatments inspired by the spirit of aloha. Get your skin glowing with the Coconut Sea Salt Lomi Lomi, which includes an organic coconut-vanilla body scrub followed by a lomilomi massage with warm coconut oil. The spa’s facials and body treatments incorporate Hawaiian-inspired scents, high-quality products and ancient Hawaiian massage techniques that are sure to leave you in a relaxed, island state of mind.
