Waikiki Queen
Q&A with Miss Waikiki, Kaʻiulani Carr
Honored to claim the coveted Miss Waikiki 2014 crown, Ka‘iulani Carr is equally enthusiastic to welcome visitors with aloha to Waikiki—the place she performed her first hula.
What does being Miss Waikiki mean to you?
When I won the title of Miss Waikiki, I couldn’t help but think this is a perfect place to represent, because of my childhood memories there. In fact, my first hula performance I’ve ever done was on Kuhio Beach… I represent a place that so many people frequent every day; it is truly humbling.
What advice can you share with Waikiki visitors?
First off, I wish you all safe travels here and back home… Secondly, the best advice I can give you is, if you need a place to eat or shop, or want to know the best lu‘au or bars, ask the locals. We would be happy to help you discover the best places in Waikiki.
PHOTOS: COURTESY PAUL HAYASHI PHOTOGRAPHY
What is your favorite Waikiki dining destination? What do you order there?
My absolute favorite place to eat in Waikiki is Sansei on Fridays after 10 p.m. because of their half-off sushi and karaoke night. When I’m there, I always order the “69” roll. It’s like a California roll, just inside out and topped with unagi and masago. Yum!
What are your hobbies and interests?
I’d have to say dancing has always been my main interest growing up, but I’ve always had a fascination with music. Ever since I was little, I loved the drums, so I took up drumming when I was 12 and have been playing ever since…
Describe your ideal day in Waikiki.
My ideal day in Waikiki would be to spend the day at the beach surfing or on a catamaran. Then as the sun sets, watch a hula show or see a musician at a local bar or restaurant, and then go to dinner at one of Waikiki’s amazing restaurants.
If it’s a Friday, maybe catch the fireworks from the Hilton Hawaiian Village and finish with a long night of dancing, or go to the Waikiki Shell for a concert.
