It's easy to forget when you live in a place its uniqueness and allure. That's true of most places, even in the world's most tantalizing destinations. You just... get used to it.

But it's different with Hawaii. Most who live here know they've got a good thing, and they spend their time – whatever free time they have – out in it. I was thinking of that when I hit Tantalus over the weekend, stopping at Puu Ualakaa State Park, with the best views of Honolulu. I spend all kinds of time playing in the land and ocean playground here, but even so there are some things I forget about. They dropped off the radar.




Tantalus is one of those, but as you can see from the photos, it shouldn't be. I was up there for the occasion of two friends who wanted to do a secret wedding. (Aren't those the best kind?) The sun was setting. The wind had softened to a whisper. And it suddenly struck me: I hadn't been here since I was a kid!

Can you imagine having a park this cool in your backyard and not visiting it more often? Me neither. That'll be a good weekend activity: Drawing up a list of must-see sights that I haven't been to in years, see what's changed. What are yours?

If you're visiting, and you can find your Waikiki hotel in the photo above, then it's a quick drive from where you're at. Make yourself a picnic (here's the Whole Foods!) and head on up.

See Tantalus in 3D »