We just left Hawaii and y’all… I’m already dreaming about going back! I don’t think it’ll be too hard to convince Tim and the kids to move there, we ALL fell in love with the island life. 🌴

This trip was truly a dream, and I’d do it again every single day if I could. Let me catch y’all up on all the highlights, because this wasn’t just any vacation , it was the perfect mix of adventure, relaxation, and celebration.

What I Packed

Since we somehow managed to fit everything into carry-ons (who even are we?), I brought only my absolute essentials for the hunt. I always get questions about my gear, so here’s a breakdown of what I packed:

🎯 Leupold Bino Harness: This has been my ride-or-die for years. Lightweight, comfortable, and keeps everything I need within reach.

👖 SHE Outdoor Clothing from Bass Pro: I’m a huge fan of this brand—comfortable, functional, and designed for women who hunt. The Hawaiian weather was a dream, so I only needed a few light layers.

💍 QALO Stackable Rings: Perfect for the outdoors. I always swap my ring for this QALO stack when I’m hunting or hiking—practical and cute. Use code EVA2025 to save!

🔪 Montana Knife Company: These knives are seriously chef’s kiss. The craftsmanship is next-level, and they’re as beautiful as they are tough.

💧 MTN OPS Hydration Packs: Staying hydrated is key, especially hiking in the Hawaiian heat. These single-serve packs are so easy to travel with. Plus, the pineapple flavor felt like a no-brainer. Use code EVA for 20% off!

🧢 Eva & Co. Gear: You know I never go on a hunt without my Eva & Co. bandana. And spoiler alert: this Hunt hat is coming soon! ⬇️

Why Hawaii? Axis Deer + A Whole Lotta Fun

A few years ago, we donated a dream Axis deer hunt with Pineapple Brothers to the SCI auction. I’m so excited that the prize finally got put to use! I love Axis deer and they have one of the most beautiful hides I’ve ever seen. In fact, they’ve been the inspiration behind some of our Eva & Co merch, like this Axis headband.

It was such a blast getting to hunt alongside Pineapple Brothers and the prize winner. They didn’t just deliver, they exceeded every expectation. They guide hunts for free-range Axis deer and even Mouflon sheep across 90,000 acres of breathtaking Lāna‘i terrain.

Their guides are experts in local game management and conservation, offering prime trophy packages and younger-game meat hunts, plus world-class accommodations at the Four Seasons or historic Hotel Lāna‘i . From trophy bucks to scenic stalks in “Serengeti-style” plains and mountain slopes, their team makes it smooth, safe, and unforgettable.

And I even got my own buck! It was technically John’s hunt—he was the prize winner—and I was just along for the ride. He tagged a great buck on the first day, and the next morning, we set out with plans for him to get a doe. But as we were heading out to scout, we spotted a beautiful buck. Even though it was his hunt, he insisted I take the shot (twist my arm, right?). I ended up making a perfect 250-yard shot through the shoulder, and the buck dropped within 30 yards. While we were taking photos, we spotted a group of does and John made a textbook shot! It was a picture-perfect morning, and I love that everyone had success, and our freezer is going to be stocked with delicious axis meat. 

Hunt by Morning, Luxury by Lunch

My favorite part? I was up in the mountains hunting by sunrise and back poolside with a margarita by lunch. That’s the magic of the Pineapple Brothers experience . They pair adrenaline-packed hunts with elevated relaxation. It’s all about that hunt-and-luxury balance.

This trip really is perfect for couples where one person wants to hunt and the other wants to relax. And for families? It’s the best of both worlds-kid-friendly action and grown-up relaxation rolled into one. You can do it all (or do absolutely nothing) and it’s still paradise.

Four Seasons Resort: Our Dream Stay

We stayed at the Four Seasons Resort Lāna‘i at Mānele Bay and y’all, it was a DREAM. From world-class dining to incredible family-friendly activities, it was the kind of place that makes you feel like you’re in a movie. The kids were in HEAVEN.

It’s the island’s flagship luxury resort: 168 rooms plus 45 suites, a Jack Nicklaus‑designed championship golf course, five restaurants (including Nobu!), spa, fitness center, and lagoon‑style pools.

Beyond the usual five‑star treats, they’ve got:

• Outdoor adventure park next door: ropes course, sporting clays, zip‑lines, e‑biking, horseback riding, 4×4 tours
• Multiple restaurant options: Nobu, ONEFORTY steakhouse, Malibu Farm poolside bistro
• Adventure and wellness: fitness, yoga, snorkel gear, luxury shuttle, cultural classes
• Kid-friendly extras: “Kids for All Seasons” program, botanic gardens, petroglyph lessons, keiki hula

A Special Celebration

Another huge reason this trip meant so much? Tim and I celebrated our 10-year wedding anniversary while we were there! 🥂 We never really got to take a honeymoon, so this trip felt extra special, especially having our babies there with us. They’re such awesome little travelers, and I love that they get to experience these adventures right alongside us.

It’s also really important to me that they understand where their food comes from. Being part of the hunt, seeing the process, and respecting the land and animals. That’s a life lesson you can’t teach from a textbook.

This wasn’t just a vacation, it was the kind of trip that fills your soul and reminds you how good it feels to be outdoors, unplugged, and with the people you love most. Hawaii, we’ll be back soon.

Whether you’re all about hunting or all about relaxing (or both 🙋🏼‍♀️), I want to hear from YOU!
What’s your perfect idea of a vacation? Share in the comments!

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