A Perfect Prologue to the Journey Home
The final day in paradise. It’s a moment always filled with a unique blend of melancholy and anticipation. The gentle Hawaiian breeze, the distant rhythm of the waves, and the iconic silhouette of Diamond Head are etched into memory. As our time in Hawaii drew to a close, the bittersweet feeling of departure was softened by the promise of one last adventure: a journey home in the ANA A380 business class cabin, aboard the magnificent “Flying Honu.” This wasn’t just a flight; it was the grand finale to an unforgettable trip, a story waiting to unfold at 35,000 feet.
A Final Taste of Aloha: Breakfast at Surf Lanai
Our last morning began with a walk along Waikiki Beach. The soft morning light cast a golden glow on Diamond Head, creating a picture-perfect scene. It was a moment of quiet reflection, a final chance to soak in the island’s serene beauty before the journey back to reality.
For our farewell breakfast, the choice was easy: Surf Lanai. Nestled within the historic Royal Hawaiian Hotel, also known as the “Pink Palace of the Pacific,” this restaurant has become our go-to tradition. Its open-air setting allows you to feel the ocean breeze, making it the ideal spot to savor the last moments of a Hawaiian vacation.
We ordered our two favorites without hesitation. First, the legendary Pink Palace Pancakes arrived, a vibrant stack of fluffy goodness.
Infused with guava and raspberry, these pancakes are as delicious as they are beautiful. Topped with whipped cream and toasted coconut, and served with a side of savory Portuguese sausage, they strike a perfect balance of sweet and salty. It’s a dish that truly captures the flavor of the islands.
Alongside the pancakes, we enjoyed a refreshing açai bowl. It’s a healthy, vibrant start to any day.
Topped with fresh berries and granola, this bowl was the perfect, light counterpoint to the indulgent pancakes. It felt like absorbing the last rays of Hawaiian sun. For those interested, I’ve written a more detailed account of the Surf Lanai experience, which you can find here: A Guide to Breakfast at Surf Lanai.
Pre-Flight Serenity: Inside the ANA Lounge at HNL
After breakfast, we took an Uber to Daniel K. Inouye International Airport (HNL). Once through security, we headed for the ANA Lounge. This lounge is a key part of the ANA A380 business class experience. Although it’s a bit of a walk from the central concourse, its biggest advantage is the direct gate access for the A380. This means you can relax until the very last moment before boarding.
The entrance, adorned with the Hawaiian honu (sea turtle) logo, sets a tranquil tone.
Inside, the lounge is spacious and airy, with massive windows overlooking the tarmac. The ceiling features a beautiful taro leaf design, a subtle nod to Hawaiian culture. It’s a comfortable and stylish space to unwind before a long flight.
Of course, a lounge visit isn’t complete without sampling the food. I helped myself to a comforting bowl of Japanese curry, some refreshing cold udon noodles, and a perfectly chilled beer. It was a delicious taste of home before even leaving Hawaii.
The Main Event: My ANA A380 Business Class Experience on the Flying Honu
As boarding began, we made our way to the gate. Waiting for us was the striking sunset-orange livery of “Lā,” the third Flying Honu aircraft, themed after the Hawaiian sun. Coincidentally, it was the same plane that had flown us to Hawaii. It felt like a fitting farewell from a new friend.
Stepping aboard, the ANA A380 business class cabin immediately impresses. It’s designed for privacy and comfort, making the long journey feel effortless.
ANA A380 Business Class Seat
The business class features a staggered seat configuration, ensuring every passenger has direct aisle access. This is a huge plus, as you never have to disturb your neighbor. The seat itself is incredibly comfortable, with ample storage and intuitive controls. Most importantly, it converts into a fully flat bed, which is essential for arriving in Japan feeling rested and ready to go. The privacy screens provide a sense of personal space, allowing you to work, dine, or sleep in your own little cocoon.
ANA A380 Business Class In-flight Meal
Once we reached cruising altitude, the meal service began. I opted for the Japanese (washoku) menu. The experience started with a delightful appetizer plate, featuring a savory pork rillette canapé and a refreshing seafood salad. It paired perfectly with a cold beer.
The main course was a beautifully presented tray of traditional Japanese dishes. It included grilled fish, small bowls of seasonal vegetables, and pickles. However, the star of the show for me was the miso soup. After days of American and Hawaiian cuisine, the warm, savory broth was incredibly comforting. It tasted like a warm hug, a simple yet profound culinary moment that made the in-flight meal truly memorable.
A Closer Look at the Flying Honu Fleet
The ANA A380, or Flying Honu, is more than just an airplane; it’s a unique travel experience. Here’s a quick guide based on this amazing journey.
Flying Honu Review and Details
The “Honu” is the Hawaiian green sea turtle, a symbol of good luck and longevity. ANA has three of these gentle giants in its fleet, each with a distinct color and name. Lani (sky) is blue, Kai (ocean) is emerald green, and Lā (sun), our ride home, is a vibrant orange. Flying on one is a special part of any Hawaii to Japan flight. The attention to detail, from the livery to the onboard amenities, makes for a cohesive and delightful theme.
ANA Lounge Access
As a business class passenger, the dedicated lounge access is a major perk. The ANA Lounge at HNL is the largest in the airport and offers a fantastic place to relax. With its direct boarding gate, you can enjoy the food, drinks, and comfortable seating without the stress of rushing to the gate. It elevates the entire pre-flight experience from a necessity to a pleasure.
Final Thoughts on the ANA A380 Business Class Journey
As Lā began its descent into Tokyo, I reflected on the journey. From the final, perfect breakfast in Waikiki to the serene lounge and the exceptional comfort of the flight, ANA delivered a seamless and luxurious experience. The ANA A380 business class isn’t just about getting from point A to point B. It’s about transforming travel time into a valuable part of the vacation itself. It’s a flying sanctuary that allows you to savor the last moments of your trip and arrive home rejuvenated. Mahalo, Hawaii, and thank you, Flying Honu. Until we meet again.
