South Pacific Journey- Fiji to Manchester, via Hawaii and Hermosa Beach LA. May 2025. THE END

 11th May 2025 – Fiji to Honolulu, Hawaii
It was time to begin the long journey back to England. After weeks of incredible adventures across the South Pacific, my next stop was Honolulu, Hawaii. I boarded Fijian Airways flight FJ 820, it was a 6 ½ hour flight from Fiji to Honolulu. The flight was smooth, and surprisingly, check-in was quick and seamless despite having a one-way ticket. I half expected to face a barrage of questions, but there were none—except at Fijian customs where they questioned the absence of a ship arrival record. It was a quick fix, and soon we were on our way.
The flight itself was incredibly comfortable—there were plenty of empty seats, which meant I had space to stretch out. The in-flight entertainment kept me entertained, and the service was warm and friendly. But here's the weirdest part: we crossed the date line and actually gained a day! Leaving Fiji on Sunday, 11th May, I landed in Honolulu on Saturday, 10th May.  Time travel confusion again.
Upon arrival at Honolulu, US customs was a breeze, and within an hour, I was in a taxi heading to my hotel. As we were so late arriving we did not so rush to wake up early for sightseeing the next morning.
11th May 2025 – Honolulu, Hawaii
After a restful night, we started our day with a leisurely brunch at the hotel restaurant. Then we hopped on a bus to Diamond Head for our pre booked 16:00 hike. The walk up Diamond Head was truly special. The panoramic views from the top were worth every step! I’m so glad we had the chance to do this iconic hike. ( it was closed last time we were in Honolulu). 

It was peaceful, the breeze was perfect, and the scenery was breath-taking.

Diamond Head Trail 

Diamond Head Trail 

Diamond Head Trail 

Diamond Head Trail 

Diamond Head Trail 

Diamond Head Trail 

From Diamond Head, we decided to walk all the way to Waikiki. Along the way, we hunted for the perfect spot to grab a Mai Tai—after all, we were in the birthplace of this iconic cocktail. The bars were packed, but we finally found a spot at The Royal Hawaiian. It’s known as the ‘home’ of the Mai Tai, and after sipping the drink, I can confirm it was amazing. Strong, expensive, and downright delicious—definitely worth the hype.

Waikiki Beach 

Mai Tai 

With the cocktail buzz still going, we walked  (? wobbled) back toward downtown Honolulu and stopped at Chart House Restaurant for a lovely dinner, making our last night in Hawaii one to remember. 

As we reminisced about the experiences we’d had, it felt bittersweet to say goodbye to the beautiful island chain.
12th – 13th May 2025: Travel Day to Hermosa Beach
The next day was all about getting from Honolulu to LAX. We boarded Hawaii Airways flight HA 2 from Honolulu to Los Angeles.

Once again, it was a comfortable flight with plenty of legroom, and I was fortunate enough to have a row to myself. The only downside was the long wait for luggage at LAX. Afterward, we took a crowded Uber bus to the off-airport taxi terminal and a taxi to Hermosa Beach.
We stayed at Quality Inn for two nights, and while the hotel was a bit dated, it served its purpose. It was clean, the bed was comfortable, and the shower was hot—if that is all you want you will be happy. That said, I was disappointed by the misleading information regarding amenities. The pool was closed and not really a pool, was more of a kiddie paddling pool, the gym was closed due to renovations, and the promised Wi-Fi... well, let's just say there was none. The staff lied, claiming it was a "temporary issue," but it was not, there is no wifi. I wouldn’t recommend the hotel for a stay.

Waste of paper and printing

However, Hermosa Beach itself was a highlight! The next day, we cycled and walked along the beach, admiring the stunning beach-front homes. We also enjoyed a fantastic meal at a local restaurant, I thoroughly enjoyed Hermosa Beach with its chilled out surfer vibe, it reminded me of Amanzimtoti, on the Natal south coast in the good old times.

Hermosa Beach

Hermosa Beach

Hermosa Beach 

Hermosa Beach

Hermosa Beach

14th & 15th May 2025: Flight to Manchester via Dublin
Finally, the end of the trip was approaching. Our flight from Los Angeles to Manchester via Dublin was scheduled for 20:15. Checking in was quick and easy, and security was a breeze. I did struggle a bit to find the One World Lounge at LAX (it's above the shopping area), but once I was there, I settled in for the wait. The lounge was large and rather gloomy as there is no natural light, and the food selection was disappointing. I wanted to eat prior to the flight, but the main was a choice of pasta or curry; I didn’t fancy either. The olives and nuts were good. But  I do think airport lounges seem to have taken a hit in the quality of food and drink on offer since the pandemic.
On the flight drink and dinner was served promptly and after that, I slept most of the way. Upon landing in Dublin, I had a quick layover before continuing on to Manchester, which marked the official end of this unforgettable journey.
Reflections on the South Pacific & Hawaii Journey
Looking back, this trip was absolutely a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Adding Hawaii to the itinerary was a great decision—it served as a perfect halfway point between Fiji and French Polynesia. I loved every moment of Hawaii, from the stunning landscapes and hikes to the delicious Mai Tais and the vibrant atmosphere. But each stop had its unique charm: Palmeston Island with its amazing community, the underwater wonders of the South Pacific, and the warm, welcoming people everywhere.

If I had to choose a favourite, Hawaii wins hands down. But really, it’s hard to compare, as each place was so distinct and offered something unforgettable.
Until the next adventure—Aloha! 🌴🌺✈️