If you love the spirit of aloha, visit the lush tr...

If you love the spirit of aloha, visit the lush tropics at the Catamaran Hotel in San Diego! They have out-Hawaii d Hawaii. Specimen palms fill the grounds and sky. Robust koi swim in the meandering ponds and waterways. Exotic parrots, Wood Ducks and other stunning birds also call the place home. Significant Hawaiian artifacts are meticulously placed throughout, and the architecture is island plantation perfection. It s magical. There are museum quality aquariums, including jellies that undulate gracefully in the main dining room at Oceana, the outstanding hotel eatery. We were just there on a Saturday night and the place was overflowing with happy diners. Tables overlook the white sand beach of Mission Bay alive with boats, and though crowded, we could hear one another with ease. What a treat! The creative cocktails and food were beautiful! I especially savored the signature Oceana Roll and a killer smoked pork chop. The oysters on the half shell were top notch. No way to rave enough about the staff. They were attentive, happy and oozed the Hawaiian spirit so lovingly created throughout the property. Oceana at the Catamaran is our own authentic Hawaii on the mainland. My whole family cannot wait to return!