There’s something magical about slowing down midweek with sand between your toes, the scent of saltwater in the air, and the warm glow of the sun melting into the horizon. Here in Hawai‘i, we’re blessed with an ocean that’s never far away and sunsets that seem hand-painted by our creator.

For our family, weekly trips to the beach have become more than just a tradition—they’re a lifeline for family connection and healthy living. Midweek, we pack up the snorkel gear and dinner, and head toward the shore (sometimes our friends and family join in on the fun too!). It’s simple, but the impact is anything but ordinary.

Unplugging to Reconnect with Family

In our busy lives, it’s far too easy to get caught up in the noise—meetings, emails, deadlines, school, errands, screens. The beach offers a different kind of connection. Out there, phones stay in the bag (except for taking photographs!) and conversation flows more easily. We laugh as we spot a curious honu (green sea turtle) gliding past, or we compare our shell collections. These moments become little treasures, reminders of what really matters.

Being together without distraction allows us to truly see one another—to listen, to share stories, and to simply enjoy each other’s company. As the band Ten Shekel Shirt sang, "There's something about the ocean." It has a way of slowing life down, giving us the space to breathe and be present. 

Discovering the Beauty Beneath the Waves

Snorkeling is like stepping into another world. Beneath the surface lies a vibrant community—schools of tang flashing silver in the sunlight, coral gardens swaying gently with the current, and the occasional humuhumunukunukuapua‘a darting between rocks. It’s hard not to be in awe of the creativity and beauty God has woven into His creation. If we are patient and observant, we even find creatures that are usually hidden.

For the kids, snorkeling is an adventure. Every dive feels like a treasure hunt. For us adults, it’s a reminder that there is still so much wonder left to discover, if only we take the time to look.

Ending the Day with a Hawaiian Sunset

After our swim, we enjoy our beach picnic and stay for the main event: sunset. There’s a hush that falls over the beach as people turn toward the horizon. The sun dips lower, painting the sky in pinks, golds, and purples. In that moment, worries seem smaller. Gratitude feels bigger.

Watching the day end like this is a spiritual experience. It’s a moment to thank God for the beauty around us, for the people beside us, and for the gift of another day well-spent. Sometimes we have our cameras out...and sometimes, we choose to sit and bask in the splendor of God's majestic, creative display. 

An Invitation to Enjoy God’s Creation

You don’t need to live on an island to enjoy the benefits of time outdoors. Whether it’s a local lake, a park, or even your backyard, regular moments in nature with loved ones can strengthen relationships, reduce stress, and nurture your spirit.

So pack a bag, gather your people, and make space in your week to be together in God’s creation. You might just find that the best memories aren’t made at a big event or in front of a screen—they’re made barefoot in the sand, with the sun setting on the water and laughter carried on the wind.

Explore our Saltwater Stories Collection to see the images we capture during our weekly beach trips!

Some of our unique finds :)