An Insider's Guide to Honolulu - From 30,000 Feet

Let's face it: just-in-time travel demands research on the fly. As the LGBT community celebrates 2016 Gay Pride this summer, spontaneous trips to LGBT-friendly destinations turn flight attendants into travel advisors at 30,000 feet. Hawaiian Airlines flight attendant Kaimana Domingo is happy to share his vast knowledge of his home state.

Domingo was raised on Hawaii's Big Island and has worked for Hawaiian Airlines for almost eight years. Since many island visitors start in Honolulu, EDGE asked Domingo about his choices for dining, nightlife, beaches and even spur-of-the-moment nuptials.

Do LGBT travelers ask you about Honolulu hotspots beyond the Go Gay Hawaii site?
Yes; I often tell our guests to go out and explore. Honolulu is filled with LGBT-friendly eateries and clubs. But asking Hawaiian Airlines flight attendants their favorite places is always a good idea. Most of us are born and raised here, so we know the islands intimately. I'd say stow your guidebook and ask one of us.

What are some of Honolulu's LGBT-friendly night clubs and bars?
Some of my favorites are: The Scarlett, Chiko's Tavern, Imua Lounge (known for its "ono" menu-delicious with local flair/fusion), Hula's Bar & Lei Stand, Fusion Waikiki and Bacchus (famous for its potent potables and reasonable prices.)

Besides well-known Queen's Surf Beach, which beaches do you recommend for meeting other LGBT locals and travelers?
Oahu is filled with luscious and breathtaking beaches. The LGBT scene is widely respected in Hawaii; so making new friends on the beach is pretty easy. (Author's note: GoGayHawaii.com also lists Diamond Head Lighthouse and Pipeline Beaches as LGBT-friendly.)

Eat. Sleep. Explore.

What are some of your favorite LGBT-friendly restaurants?
Nico's Pier 38 (also pet-friendly), Hoku's (famous for lavish Sunday brunch), Chef Chai, Lucky Belly, The Pig and the Lady (Vietnamese food in Honolulu's Chinatown), AMUSE Wine Bar and HASR Bistro (known for its extensive wine list.)

Besides the big chain hotels, what are some boutique accommodations that LGBT travelers will find welcoming?
Aqua Hotels and Resorts often have special promotions for LGBT travelers. The Lotus at Diamond Head is a bit off Waikiki's main drag, but still close enough to all the action. It offers the perfect blend of privacy and accessibility. The Surfjack Hotel and Swim Club is a new hotel with a vintage-inspired vibe. Their restaurant, Mahina and Sun's, offers great live music and island cuisine prepared by local celebrity Chef Ed Kenney.

Beyond Waikiki, where are other gay-friendly neighborhoods?
I really enjoy what's been done to the Ko Olina area and all of Oahu's west side. It's a bit of a drive, but once you're there, you just don't want to leave. And it's definitely LGBT-friendly!

The Perfect Day (and Night)

What's your idea of a perfect day and evening in Honolulu for a first-time LGBT visitor?
The possibilities are endless: Stand-up paddle boarding at Ala Moana Beach Park; take the Pillbox Hike (with picturesque views of Lanikai Beach) or pack a lunch, grab a volleyball or badminton racket and head to Waimanalo Beach. Cool down with sunset drinks and dinner at Top of Waikiki (a rotating restaurant with 360-degree views) or House Without a Key. If you've still got game, Wang Chung's Karaoke Bar is the best way to end the night. Their bar food is amazing.

Honolulu is a popular place to get married. If a visitor decides to get hitched (even after landing), do you have any suggestions for wedding venues?
A few homes in the Portlock area on Oahu's east are available for ceremonies and receptions.

A simple sunset wedding on the beach is dreamy, but keep in mind some locations require a permit. In addition, Hawaiian Airlines' LGBT-friendly Wedding Wings program offers discounts and upgrades to anyone planning a Hawaiian wedding.

Supporting the LGBT Community

Does Hawaiian Airlines offer any packages for Honolulu's Rainbow Film Festival in August and/or the Gay Pride Parade in October?
The company's a proud supporter of Honolulu's Rainbow Film Festival. I recommend visiting www.HawaiianAirlines.com for the latest deals for any Hawaiian vacation.

In what ways does Hawaiian Airlines support the LGBT community?
Hawaiian Airlines celebrates the diversity of all visitors and residents. In addition to sponsoring past Honolulu Rainbow Film Festivals (Facebook lists Saturday, August 6 as this year's opening night), we were also a broadcast sponsor of this year's San Francisco's Pride Parade.

Domingo wants everyone to know Honolulu and the rest of the Hawaiian Islands embrace the spirit of "aloha" (which means love, peace and compassion to locals) for all people. So vital in today's world.