My wife and I are thinking of moving to Hawaii. Not sure to which Island, Oahu or the Big Island (kona side). We have been to both (1 week in oahu, 2 weeks in Kona) and know the differences in lifestyle. Can't argue with either one. Felt completely at home on both islands. Hung out with the locals...surfed...just felt like this is where we should be.

Anywhoo, I wanted to get some feedback from you guys on what its like to live there...mostly job-wise. What is the job market like? I have always done my own thing, which I will probably do when I am there, but she will need a decent job. Any mainlanders on here make the move? What was your experience like?

I skate, snowboard and surf. She surfs and snowboards. Are there any skateparks on either island or good street spots? I didnt see much to skate driving around the Kona area, a couple of rails is all. I really didn't check too much when I was out there though. I was honestly too busy hanging out in the ocean...never rode waves like that before. Got knocked out too...haha. Went over the falls on a 10-12 footer the second day we were there.

Well, any feedback would help guys.

PS. We are going back in August for about 2-3 weeks. So hopefully that will allow us some time to look around for jobs, places to live..etc. If anyone on here skates and you want to hook up, let me know.

Thanks

 

I read the other thread...thanks guys.

We are pretty level headed and understand that it is not "paradise" like a lot of people would think. We know the risks that are involved and imagine it will be a hard move...but well worth it.

Main thing is that we need to secure her a job. Here, she doesnt have to work, I can provide for both of us...but its a little more $$$ to live in Hawaii than in Western PA.

As far as racism goes...I experienced some when I was in Kona. It didn't bother me though. Got a few "haole", "go home tourist" remarks. I dont consider myself a tourist so i told my wife they were talking to her. haha.
99% of the locals that I met, hung out with, or surfed with were cool as hell. It's no different than being in a city like DC where white is (or at least feels) like the minority. Us whiteys just arent used to it...but like i said, it didnt bother me one bit.

i'll have to checkout those parks in oahu. are they any good? wasnt there one under a plane hanger? i remember from some old (92ish) new deal video, there was some park footage from hawaii. they had a few hawaiian riders on the team.

thanks again....