HONOLULU: Barack Obama and family landed in Honolulu late Friday to kick off a two-week Hawaiian vacation, what the US president earlier described as a chance for “sleep and sun” after a bruising year in Washington.

Obama, with wife Michelle and daughters Malia and Sasha, along with Marian Robinson, Mrs. Obama’s mother, emerged from Air Force One in casual garb after a 9 1/2 hour flight. First dogs Bo and Sunny were also present.

The Obamas were welcomed by dignitaries including Admiral Samuel Locklear, Commander of the US Pacific Command.