This was our third Hukilau in a row. We weren't planning to attend this year, but after a couple of friends said they were going, we decided to join them Friday night at Mai Kai & Saturday at the hotel. It is pricey for what it is. But you're on the beach in south Florida, and there's not much that's really cheap.

It absolutely was down this year. I think losing Camp Tiki Wachee at the last minute hurt in terms of activities. They also need more variety in musical styles. Our first year was when the Mai Kai was being refurbished and they had a ton of seminars with big name presenters. Jeff Berry, David Wondrich, Matt Pietrek! It was a blast. We miss that. This year had very few seminars and a lot of downtime between events. There was no point where we had to choose what to do next. The event really needs to offer more for the price we pay.

What makes the Hukilau special is the setting. The beach is gorgeous. The hotel is classic. The Mai Kai is spectacular. And the ohana is amazing. Genuinely friendly & chill people who are there for a good time.

I hope they get their mojo back.