The Tegtmeyer Family from Wichita Falls, TX (parents and two young adult sons aged 21 and 18) ventured to Hawaii earlier this month to celebrate a high school graduation.  Their trip began in Honolulu to see Pearl Harbor.  Unfortunately the USS Arizona is currently closed due to cracks in the structure, but the boats are still going out to take you around the memorial and there is an informative video and displays at the Visitor Center along with a variety of other monuments and museums.  They found Waikiki Beach to be a bit busy, but also cool.  They stayed at the Ohana Waikiki Malia where they appreciated the friendly and helpful front desk.  Next they ventured to Maui and stayed in a condo at the Palms at Wailea.  They enjoyed the beautiful landscaping, pool, hot tub and the gorgeous sunset views right from their condo.  They had a great time at the Old Lahaina Luau.  They also took the Road to Hana which they enjoyed even with the long ride.  Next they moved onto The Big Island despite the volcano activity.  What an opportunity to see this amazing natural phenomenon!  The Family Traveler monitored the volcano activity daily since the eruption began and we had to cancel their hotel that sat right at the edge of the crater.  Instead they stayed at the Doubletree Naniloa in Hilo which they said was awesome.   There was a friendly front desk, bartenders, tour desk and of course the cookies!  The family enjoyed the  hotel pool, restaurant and shop.  They rented a car and drove around to Kona to stay at the Fairmont Orchid.  They loved their double shower in the very large bathroom and appreciated the comfy beds!  From Kona, they took a helicopter tour over the volcano and said it was really worthwhile.  A once-in-a-lifetime experience!  They had no problems with the air quality or affects of the volcano.  There was some vog (volcanic smog) near the Kona airport where it was hazy, but no smell.  No issues elsewhere.  They spent lots of time walking, biking as well as relaxing by the beach and pool.  Overall a wonderful trip for the entire family.