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Maui With Kids: The Ultimate Family Travel Guide 2027
Maui is one of the easiest and most rewarding Hawaiian islands to visit with kids. From calm, swimmable beaches and walkable resort areas to family-friendly hotels, restaurants, and activities, this guide shares everything you need to know to plan a smooth, memorable Maui vacation with toddlers and young kids—based on real family experience.
This is what "Blue Health" looks like! There is a scientific reason why our kids are so much happier by the ocean—the coastal air and water actually boost creativity and calm. We chose Honua Kai for its perfect balance of shared family space and easy beach access, making it the ideal home base for our latest world-schooling adventure.
Last updated: October 2026. We recently returned from another Maui family vacation, this time with our 3- and 5-year-olds! I've updated this guide with our latest favorite activities, beaches, restaurants, and practical tips for visiting Maui with little kids.
Is Maui Worth It With Kids? A Real Family-Friendly Travel Guide
Yes — Maui is absolutely worth visiting with kids. From calm beaches and stroller-friendly resort areas to kid-loving restaurants and flexible activities, Maui is one of the easiest Hawaiian islands to enjoy as a family — even with toddlers.
Our kids don’t understand how lucky they are for the amount of times they have gone to Hawaii! Maui is our favorite destination for traveling as a family. There is so much to do and the island has so much to offer for everyone. We have made some sweet memories together from having an infant to toddler and kid years.
We have learned to have a successful trip you need the balance of snacks, naps, and fun! therefore, we have recommendations for accommodations, restaurants, and things to do to entertain (and hopefully tire out) your tot!
Related Post: Don’t miss our ULTIMATE MAUI GUIDE
Honokōwai Beach Park with a playground in Maui
🌴 Is Maui Safe to Visit Right Now?
If you’re planning a Maui trip with kids and wondering about recent weather updates, I completely understand — it’s something I would be thinking about too! 🤍 See our weather post on Instagram!
We were actually in Hawaii during the 2026 Kona Low storm, and it was a little scary at times (especially when even locals were saying they hadn’t seen weather like that before). That said, situations like this are temporary, and Maui continues to be a beautiful and welcoming place to visit.
Weather can always impact plans a little, so having a flexible itinerary (especially with kids!) can make everything feel much smoother.
When we travel with our boys, I always like to have a few backup options — whether that’s a relaxed beach day, a pool afternoon, or an easy activity nearby. We hung out in the pool and at the beach a lot because they were near the hotel and we were wet from the rain anyway. Please use caution and check reports, the ocean might not be safe to swim in due to run-offs or strong currents.
I also had books and coloring books for the room, stock up on our favorite: The Trucks that Saved Series for rainy days with kids!
As always, it’s a good idea to check current conditions during your stay and use caution, especially with ocean conditions, which can change quickly.
Maui is such a special place for families, and this guide is here to help you plan a trip that feels fun, easy, and low-stress no matter what!
Honua Kai is a great place to stay with kids - multiple room option configurations, water slides, and a full kitchen, what else do you need?!
Best Places to Stay in Maui for Families
After many hotel and condo stays around Maui, let’s break up the island to compare which areas are best for your family!
🌺 Best Areas to Stay in Maui With Kids
Kā‘anapali
Wailea
Nāpili / Kapalua
These are the best areas to stay in Maui with kids based on walkability, beach conditions, and family-friendly amenities.
Kaanapali vs Wailea vs Kapalua with Kids
Kaanapali is much more kid friendly, as well as budget friendly, than Wailea. Both areas of the island have family friendly hotels but Kaanapali has a long stretch of them! There is a great beach and tons of hotels and shopping along Kaanapali with a long walk way to connect everything together.
Wailea has more high end hotels that are more geared towards adults, such as the Four Seasons or the Andaz. The Grand Wailea has an awesome pool with lots of water slides but you can also get similar pools in Kaanapali.
Napili and Kapalua are further North and rockier than the previous areas discussed. It’s not as walkable as the hotel resorts are more spread out, which makes it less crowded and quieter. Kapalua bay has a great beach that doesn’t have big waves but also has a coral reef that is great for snorkeling! The Kapalua coastal trail is great for strollers or walking with a carrier.
Early morning pool walk with the kids!
🏨 Condo Resorts vs Hotels
Depending on your length of stay, if it’s more than 5 days, you might be more comfortable trying a condo like Outrigger’s Honua Kai! You can pick your room layout (Studio, One Bedroom, Two Bedroom or Three Bedrooms) so that you have plenty of space especially when babies or toddlers are napping and you need another room to hang out in!
Condo Rental Wins:
Pools are like resort pools! Honua Kai has one of our favorite pools complete with water slides, splash pad, and kiddie pool! You can even get food and drink poolside service from Duke’s restaurant!
My favorite feature is having a full kitchen with the little ones so you can make pancakes or have fresh fruit and milk available in a full sized refrigerator as opposed to a mini fridge.
We book through Maui Resort Rentals and they have cribs/pack n plays so you don’t have to bring a bed!
The Trucks that Saved the Park story book and coloring book are NOW available!
🧳 Planning a Hawaii trip with kids?
I made a free family packing list with carry-on essentials, beach must-haves, snacks, sleep items, and toddler travel favorites.
Taking first steps on a Little Beach bridges in front of Honua Kai
Best Resorts for families
Don’t get me wrong, the resort hotels are wonderful too! If you have kids that are 4+, traveling is a bit easier since you don’t have to bring diapers, strollers, pack n play, etc!
Kaanapali has a few great hotel resorts:
Westin Kā‘anapali Ocean Resort Villas
The Westin in Kaanapali has an amazing pool area with slides, fountains, and one especially parent-friendly feature: our 3-year-old could climb up to the slide on their own and land in a shallow pool (about 1.5 feet deep). This setup was a huge win for us—it gave our toddler independence while giving us a much-needed break from constant stair climbing.
The Westin also has great restaurants, a Starbucks, and an ARCADE!
Other activities include feeding the flamingos and birds in the morning. Ask the front desk about the times for daily feedings. We were even able to hold the birds too!
Hyatt Regency Maui Resort and Spa
The pool at the Hyatt Regency Maui is a kid’s tropical playground that feels more like a mini-waterpark than a hotel pool. Between the sandy lagoons, waterslides, swinging rope bridge, hidden grottos tucked behind rushing waterfalls, and the legendary Ululani’s Shave Ice located right on the pool deck, it provides enough adventure to keep children entertained from sunrise to sunset.
The Hyatt Regency Maui resort has a resident colony of African Black-Footed Penguins. Located right in the atrium lobby, these charismatic birds are a must-see, especially during the daily 9:30 AM feedings where children can watch them waddle, swim, and dive for their breakfast while learning about conservation from the wildlife team. It’s essentially a mini-zoo experience without leaving the hotel, featuring not just the penguins but also flamingos, swans, and talking parrots scattered throughout the lush grounds.
Has a game room/arcade area geared toward kids and teens.
African Black-Footed Penguins at the Hyatt Regency Maui
Wailea also has a family friendly hotel:
Grand Wailea
Though there isn’t an arcade, the Grand Wailea offers a kids club and teen lounge including video games and indoor activities— which is more structured and supervised than the Hyatt or Westin Arcades.
The Grand Wailea pool is widely considered the heavyweight champion for kids on Maui. The massive Wailea Canyon Activity Pool is a sprawling 25,700-square-foot playground that is actually nine individual pools connected by a network of lazy rivers and whitewater rapids.
Children can choose from five different waterslides, including the three-story Lava Tube for the brave and gentler interconnected slides for the younger ones. Between the Tarzan rope swing, the hidden caves behind waterfalls, and a dedicated Baby Beach with a sandy bottom and zero-entry slope, it essentially functions as a private, world-class waterpark that keeps kids engaged for days on end.
See our full review of The Grand Wailea.
Multi-Gen Logistics: Finding the "Middle Ground"
What are the best multi-generational resorts in Maui for kids and seniors?
The Sheraton Maui Resort in Kaanapali is ideal for families because it offers multiple room types and towers, making it easy to request adjoining rooms or stay close together.
Accessibility with Dignity: Multiple elevators and card-access doors make the property easy to navigate for those with strollers or limited mobility.
The Shared Experience: Kaanapali Beach is a great stretch for walking, and the resort's location near Black Rock provides world-class snorkeling that every generation can enjoy together.
A "Helper" Moment: As the kids watch the tour boats and beach equipment being moved, it's a perfect time to talk about how different "helper machines" make vacation fun—just like in The Trucks That Saved. My littles are excellent at pointing out all trucks, even in Maui!
The Grand Wailea is another top pick, featuring a massive pool area that functions like a water park for the kids, while grandparents can enjoy the Wailea Beach Path. This 1.5-mile concrete paved trail is perfect for a morning stroll with a stroller and a grandparent who prefers level ground (or walking a sleeping baby in a stroller! 😉).
Maui 2-Bedroom Condos for Families: The "Shared Space" Strategy
For families looking for communal living with private retreats, Honua Kai is unbeatable.
The Condo Advantage: These 2- and 3-bedroom units include full kitchens for slow breakfasts together, but offer enough separate bedrooms for a "quiet escape" when the kids have their high-energy "bursts of excitement" or early bedtimes.
Skip-Gen Potential: Booking through Maui Resort Rentals often includes beach gear like coolers and chairs. Help set up a base camp for the grandparents and kids on the beach while you and your husband enjoy a solo lunch nearby (Duke’s Beach-house) —a classic "skip-gen" bonding moment.
Literary Travel Tip: Pack your favorite book from the series to read by the pool; the "helper" themes of cooperation are great for teaching kids how to be good travelers alongside their extended family.
Honokōwai Beach Park
🏝️ Best Beaches in Maui for Kids
One of the biggest reasons we keep coming back to Maui is the beaches! We've been visiting since 2013 and have experienced the island with babies, toddlers, and now preschoolers.
But not every Maui beach is ideal for young children. Some have strong shore breaks, rocky entries, or limited parking.
When we're looking for a family-friendly beach, we prioritize calmer water, easy access, bathrooms, and plenty of room to play.
During our October 2026 trip with our 3- and 5-year-olds, we returned to some of our favorite beaches—and discovered even more reasons to love them!
Our Favorite Maui Beaches for Kids
🏖️ Honokōwai Beach Park — Best for Toddlers and Playground Time
This remains one of our favorite beaches for little kids! A rock wall helps protect a shallow swimming area from larger waves when conditions are calm, and there's a playground with swings right next to the beach.
During our latest visit, the boys had a blast swimming and playing. We even spotted a seal swimming past!
There are bathrooms and convenient parking, although the lot gets busier later in the morning. We arrived early and had no trouble finding a spot.
Airport Beach - Kahekili Beach Park
🐠 Airport Beach (Kahekili Beach Park) — Best for Snorkeling
Airport Beach is another family favorite thanks to its gradual shoreline and beautiful reef close to shore.
During our October visit, we spotted butterflyfish, angelfish, parrotfish, and Hawaiian green sea turtles!
It's a wonderful beach for families who want to enjoy the sand while more experienced swimmers explore the underwater world.
Kapalua beach walk perfect for strollers
🐢 Kapalua Bay — Best for a Family Beach Morning
Kapalua Bay is one of Maui's most beautiful crescent-shaped beaches, with a naturally sheltered bay that often has gentler water than more exposed beaches.
We arrived around 8 a.m. on our latest trip and spotted sea turtles and even squid!
It's a fantastic place for swimming and snorkeling when conditions cooperate. I recommend arriving early because parking can fill quickly.
🌊 Kā‘anapali Beach — Best for Older Kids
Kā‘anapali Beach is beautiful, with soft sand, crystal-clear water, and easy access to restaurants and shopping.
However, waves can be stronger here, making it better suited to older children and confident swimmers on some days.
For families with toddlers, I generally prefer one of the more protected beaches listed above.
Parent tip: Even beaches that are usually calm can have dangerous waves and currents. Always check conditions before entering the ocean, especially with little kids!
For more information, including parking, bathrooms, photos, and which beaches are best for babies and toddlers, read our complete guide to the Best Beaches in Maui for Kids.
🖤 Waiʻānapanapa State Park
One of Maui's famous black sand beaches and a must-see stop along the Road to Hana.
For our complete guide—including photos, parking tips, bathrooms, toddler recommendations, and the beaches we return to year after year—read our full guide to Best Beaches in Maui for Kids.
Look Closely for the Sleeping Green Hawaiian Sea Turtles in Kapalua Bay
Best Things to Do in Maui With Kids
Some of the best things to do in Maui with kids include beach days in Wailea, snorkeling in calm coves, easy Road to Hana stops, shave ice tastings, scenic hikes, and sunset walks along the coast. Maui makes it easy to mix adventure with relaxation for the whole family.
Snorkeling with our 5-year-old at Airport Beach
🌊 Snorkeling in Maui With Young Kids
One of our favorite things about Maui is how much marine life you can see right off the beach!
You don't always need to book an expensive snorkeling tour to see colorful tropical fish or Hawaiian green sea turtles.
Two of our favorite family snorkeling spots are Airport Beach (Kahekili Beach Park) and Kapalua Bay.
During our October 2026 trip, we spotted butterflyfish, angelfish, parrotfish, sea turtles, and even squid!
Our boys were 3 and 5, so they weren't quite ready for traditional snorkeling equipment. Instead, we brought their swim goggles and fins so they could enjoy the water while the more experienced swimmers explored the nearby reefs.
For families with little ones, I'd recommend keeping things simple:
Start with calmer conditions. Mornings are often a good time to try, but always check the ocean forecast.
Don't force the snorkeling gear. Younger kids can enjoy looking into shallow water with goggles or playing near shore with close adult supervision.
Choose your beach carefully. Airport Beach and Kapalua Bay are two of our favorites when ocean conditions are suitable.
Respect marine life. Never chase, touch, or crowd sea turtles or other wildlife, and avoid standing on coral.
Know your child's abilities. Snorkeling in the ocean requires strong swimming skills and can be dangerous, even in areas that look calm.
Our favorite snorkeling tip? You don't have to see everything in one outing! Some of our sweetest Maui memories come from simple beach mornings spent swimming, playing in the sand, and discovering what lives beneath the water.
For more family-friendly beaches and tips, check out our Best Beaches in Maui for Kids guide.
3-year-old watching the turtles at Maui Ocean Center
🐠 Maui Ocean Center — A Must-Visit With Preschoolers!
We almost skipped Maui Ocean Center because of the expensive admission price, especially since we've visited some incredible aquariums in California. But I'm SO glad we went!
Our boys were 3 and 5 during our visit, and they absolutely LOVED it! We spent nearly two hours watching sharks swim overhead in the underwater tunnel, admiring Hawaiian green sea turtles at Turtle Lagoon, and discovering everything from colorful fish and jellyfish to octopus and seahorses.
In fact, when we finished exploring, the boys asked to do it all again! And we practically did!
There's even a little playground, plus Dole Whip and Ululani's Shave Ice for a sweet treat afterward! 🍧
A few things to know: Children ages 3 and younger enter free, but admission for the rest of the family can add up quickly. The 3D Whale Sphere isn't suitable for kids under 4, and while many exhibits are covered, you'll walk outdoors between them.
Our verdict? Maui Ocean Center is one of our favorite activities for kids ages 3–5, and we'd absolutely visit again!
🐢 Read our full Maui Ocean Center With Kids review for ticket prices, parking tips, favorite exhibits, and everything you need to know before visiting!
🐧 See Penguins and Tropical Birds in Kā‘anapali
Did you know you can see PENGUINS in Maui?! And you don't have to visit an aquarium!
On our latest Maui trip, we turned our morning walk along Kā‘anapali Beach into a little wildlife scavenger hunt!
We stopped at the Westin Maui Resort & Spa to see flamingos, parrots, and cockatoos before heading to the Hyatt Regency Maui for its daily African penguin presentation.
The penguin presentation takes place every morning at 9:30 a.m. in the Hyatt's atrium lobby, where you can watch the penguins and learn about their care from the wildlife team.
Our 5-year-old was fascinated! He even asked how penguins sleep. We learned a fun fact about penguins taking tiny "micro-naps" throughout the day. Who knew?!
Our 3-year-old, on the other hand, got bored after a little while. 😂
There are other beautiful birds around the Hyatt, too, including parrots that say "ALOHA!" It's adorable!
The Hyatt also offers guided wildlife tours on select days, where visitors can learn more about the animals living at the resort. For families with toddlers, I'd recommend starting with the shorter penguin presentation to see how long your little ones stay interested.
Parent tip: This is a fun morning activity if you're staying in Kā‘anapali. Check with the Hyatt for current presentation times, tour schedules, and visitor access before heading over.
⛳ Mini Golf and Bumper Boats at Maui Golf & Sports Park
Looking for something fun to do in Maui with kids that doesn't involve the beach or pool?
We visited Maui Golf & Sports Park in Māʻalaea on the last day of our October 2026 trip, and our 3- and 5-year-olds absolutely LOVED it!
The park has two beautifully maintained 18-hole miniature golf courses, complete with tropical landscaping, waterfalls, caves, and even a giant volcano!
We ended up playing both courses—all 36 holes!
The boys especially enjoyed the volcano and waterfall features, which made it feel like more of an adventure than your typical miniature golf course.
But the fun didn't stop there!
We also tried the bumper boats, where you can cruise around a lagoon and bump into the other boats. Such a fun activity for little kids!
A few things to know:
Mini golf: Two different 18-hole courses, with unlimited golf available.
Bumper boats: Children ages 4 and older can ride alone; younger kids can ride with an adult.
Other activities: Rock climbing and a bungee trampoline are also available. We skipped the rock climbing because our youngest was too little.
Food: There's a nearby food-truck area with coffee, baked goods, and shave ice!
Parent tip: Maui Golf & Sports Park is right near Maui Ocean Center, so you could combine both attractions into a fun family outing.
We were genuinely impressed by how clean and well-maintained the miniature golf courses were. It's a great option for families looking for something different to do with preschoolers in Maui!
Check current hours, pricing, and activities at Maui Golf & Sports Park.
🍧 Shave Ice Tasting
You can’t visit Maui with kids and skip shave ice. It’s practically a family tradition. Try tasting your way through different spots across the island — from classic rainbow flavors to fresh fruit syrups with ice cream at the bottom. It’s the perfect cool-down treat after beach time or a hike.
(We have a full list of our favorite shave ice spots in Maui here!)
🥾 Easy Hikes
ʻIao Valley is great to wander around and has different hiking levels for all ages. There’s also a stream to swim in, which makes it extra fun for kids.
Kapalua’s Coastal Trail is even stroller-friendly with stunning beach views and plenty of spots to stop and explore.
See our full breakdown in our Maui Hiking Trails Post!
🚜 Farm Visits
Kula Ranch is a great place to visit — especially in October! They have a full pumpkin patch as well as animals to look at and pet. Kula is above Wailea, but you’ll need to drive around the island to reach it.
And don’t leave without grabbing pumpkin bread from the little roadside stand!
🚗 Road to Hāna With Kids: Is It Worth It?
The Road to Hāna is one of the most beautiful drives in Maui, filled with lush rainforests, waterfalls, bamboo forests, and gorgeous beaches. But is it worth doing with toddlers and preschoolers?
YES! If your kids enjoy exploring and you don't mind a LONG day in the car!
During our October 2026 trip, we tackled the Road to Hāna with our 3- and 5-year-olds, and it turned into one of our biggest family adventures!
We decided to drive the Road to Hāna in reverse, taking the back way through Kaupō to Kīpahulu, continuing through Hāna, and eventually returning along the traditional Hāna Highway toward Pāʻia.
We left our resort around 6:45 a.m. and didn't return until approximately 6 p.m. That's almost 12 hours of exploring, including about seven hours of driving!
Our biggest tip? Pick one or two must-do activities and treat everything else as a bonus. You simply can't see everything in one day, especially with little kids!
🥾 Pīpīwai Trail and Waimoku Falls With Kids
Our absolute favorite part of the day was hiking the Pīpīwai Trail in Haleakalā National Park's Kīpahulu District.
This incredible hike takes you through a rainforest, past a massive banyan tree, across bridges, and into a magical bamboo forest before reaching the Waimoku Falls viewing area.
And guess what? Our 3- and 5-year-olds completed the entire hike!
Distance: Approximately 4 miles round trip (our recorded hike was 4.15 miles)
Our hiking time: 3 hours and 25 minutes
Difficulty: Moderate, with uneven terrain, stairs, and muddy sections
Stroller-friendly: No!
Entrance fee: $30 per vehicle during our visit, valid for three days
The boys loved exploring the bamboo forest, spotting streams, and finding interesting branches along the way. It was a lot of hiking for little legs, but they surprised us with how much they enjoyed the adventure!
Would I recommend it for every toddler? Probably not. It's a challenging hike, and you need to be prepared to turn around if your kids get tired or conditions change.
For families with younger children, you can hike just part of the trail to see the banyan tree or bamboo forest without committing to the entire four miles. We hiked it with a baby carrier when our oldest was 1-year-old.
Important: Always follow posted trail closures and stay within designated viewing areas. Conditions near waterfalls can be dangerous.
🌺 Our Favorite Road to Hāna Stops With Kids
Besides our big hike, we managed to squeeze in a few other stops!
Grandma's Coffee House: We stopped for breakfast and coffee early in the morning before continuing toward Kīpahulu.
Koki Beach: A beautiful red-sand beach where we stopped for lunch. The waves were too rough for our little swimmers, but it's a gorgeous place to explore from shore.
Hāmoa Beach: One of the prettiest beaches along the route! However, the surf was intense during our visit, so we enjoyed the scenery rather than getting in the water.
Puaʻa Kaʻa Falls: A lovely waterfall stop that only took us about 10–15 minutes.
Wailua Falls: We admired this gorgeous waterfall as we drove past.
We didn't make it to Waiʻānapanapa Black Sand Beach this time because we hadn't reserved a time slot. We also skipped Coconut Glen's Ice Cream, even though it's been a favorite on previous Maui adventures.
That's the thing about the Road to Hāna: You have to be flexible!
💡 Tips for Driving the Road to Hāna With Little Kids
After doing this adventure with our preschoolers, here's what I'd recommend:
Start EARLY! We left before 7 a.m., and it made a huge difference.
Pack plenty of snacks and water. There are long stretches without convenient places to stop.
Choose your priorities. For us, hiking Pīpīwai Trail was more important than squeezing in every beach and waterfall.
Bring proper shoes. Hiking trails can be muddy and slippery, especially after rain.
Don't count on swimming. Some beaches have strong waves and currents, and the Pools of ʻOheʻo are closed to swimming.
Check road conditions before leaving. The southern back route can be narrow and challenging, with occasional closures. Confirm your rental car company's restrictions before attempting it.
Be flexible! Sometimes the best family memories come from unexpected stops, not a perfectly planned itinerary.
Would We Do the Road to Hāna Again With Kids?
Absolutely!
It was a long day, but seeing our boys hike through a bamboo forest and experience some of Maui's most incredible scenery made it worthwhile.
However, if you're traveling with a baby, have kids who get carsick, or only have a few days in Maui, I'd consider skipping the full drive or choosing a shorter out-and-back adventure.
Want to plan your own adventure? Check out our Best Stops on the Road to Hāna guide, complete with mile markers, a map, and our favorite stops!
The ultimate "helper truck!" Stopping at Coconut Glen’s for their famous vegan ice cream is a Road to Hana tradition. Our kids loved seeing this real-life version of the hard-working vehicles in our book series, The Trucks That Saved.
🍦 A Sweet Stop: Coconut Glen's Ice Cream Truck
One of our favorite Road to Hāna traditions is stopping at Coconut Glen's for homemade coconut ice cream! Don't forget to look for the whimsical, colorful ice cream truck at Mile Marker 27.5. While the famous gong may be gone, the magic is now served straight from a real-life "helper vehicle!"
We've visited many times over the years, and now there's an adorable, colorful ice cream truck serving up sweet treats in the tropical jungle.
If your kids love trucks as much as ours do, they'll get a kick out of seeing an actual ice cream truck on the Road to Hāna!
It's especially fun for our family because we have a children's book series, The Trucks That Saved, featuring a hard-working ice cream truck!
We skipped Coconut Glen's on our October 2026 adventure because we've been so many times before, but I would absolutely recommend adding it to your itinerary if you've never been.
Parent tip: A quick ice cream stop is a great way to break up a long drive with younger children. Just check current operating hours before heading out!
👶 Road to Hāna With Toddlers, Babies, and Grandparents
We've experienced the Road to Hāna with our family at different ages, and I've learned that the secret to a successful trip is choosing activities that work for everyone.
Traveling with babies or 1- and 2-year-olds?
I'd recommend focusing on shorter stops, scenic viewpoints, snacks, and easy walks rather than attempting every waterfall and hiking trail. The drive itself can be exhausting for little ones, especially if they're prone to motion sickness.
You don't have to complete the entire Road to Hāna to have a wonderful adventure!
Traveling with preschoolers or older kids?
If your children enjoy hiking, consider exploring the Pīpīwai Trail. Our 3- and 5-year-olds completed the approximately four-mile hike during our October 2026 visit, but it was a big undertaking!
Traveling with grandparents?
One of my favorite multigenerational travel strategies is letting everyone choose their own adventure.
For example, while more adventurous family members tackle Pīpīwai Trail, others might prefer exploring the shorter Kūloa Point Trail, which offers beautiful coastal views and overlooks the Pools of ʻOheʻo.
The Kūloa Point Trail is approximately half a mile, but it still has uneven terrain and isn't suitable for every mobility level.
You can also prioritize scenic roadside stops where everyone gets to enjoy Maui's beauty without committing to a long hike.
My biggest multigenerational travel tip: Don't expect everyone to do everything together. Sometimes splitting up for an activity and meeting afterward makes the day much more enjoyable!
And remember, the Road to Hāna is a FULL-day adventure. Build in plenty of time for bathroom breaks, snacks, rest stops, and unexpected delays.
The Ohe’o Gulch (Seven Sacred Pools) is a masterpiece of natural engineering. While the pools are often closed for swimming due to safety, the paved Kuloa Point Trail offers an easy, half-mile loop that is perfect for strollers and grandparents to see the waterfalls meeting the ocean. We loved watching the Park Rangers—the ultimate 'helpers'—working to keep this beautiful, sacred area safe for families to enjoy.
Road to Hana Educational Adventure: Hiking and "Helper" Machines
Driving to the Kipahulu District of Haleakalā National Park is the ultimate reward at the end of the road. Here is how to handle the two very different experiences found here:
Haleakalā National Park (Pipiwai Trail + Bamboo Forest): This 4-mile round-trip hike is a world-schooling highlight featuring a massive banyan tree and a "Zen-like" bamboo forest.
The Skip-Gen Strategy: This is a perfect "Skip-Generation" opportunity. The trail can be muddy and steep, so let the grandparents enjoy a slow lunch at a nearby lookout or the visitor center while the parents take the kids on the hike.
Ohe’o Gulch (The Seven Sacred Pools): If you are looking for high-visual impact with low effort, this is your stop (pictured above).
Accessibility with Dignity: Unlike the Pipiwai Trail, the Kuloa Point Trail is a short, 0.5-mile loop that is much flatter and manageable for strollers or grandparents. It leads you right to the edge of the ocean to see the dramatic tiered pools.
The "Helper" Connection: While you explore, keep an eye out for the Park Rangers. Just like the team in our book series, The Trucks That Saved, these real-life helpers work around the clock—monitoring water levels and maintaining the trails—to keep the land and the families visiting it safe.
Ke’anae Arboretum (Mile Marker 16): A must-visit for a short, flat walk to see the famous Rainbow Eucalyptus trees.
See our full list of Road to Hana Stops for more!
Planning to visit other islands? Check out our Multi-Gen Guide to Oahu to see more real-life helper trucks at Pearl Harbor!
📸 Professional Maui Family Photos
Maui provides the perfect backdrop for family photos — think Christmas card “Mele Kalikimaka” vibes.
Our favorite local photographer, Tracy Leboe at Baby Hawaii Photography, is incredibly talented. She captures gorgeous maternity and family sessions. Be sure to book ahead of time — sessions fill quickly!
Maui Family Portraits taken by Baby Hawaii Photography
Don’t forget to print our favorite Coloring Pages to take on the plane!
🍽️ Best Kid Friendly Restaurants in Maui
Monkeypod is a very toddler friendly restaurant with crayons and free butter noodles for kids 3 and under. It also has great happy hour and my favorite Mai Tai! There are two locations on Maui - Kaaanapali and Wailea!
Barefoot Bar is a fun restaurant where you can eat with your toes in the sand! It is part of Hula Grill but has a separate entrance on the South side of the restaurant. They also have crayons and some good kid food options. Our kid claimed, “it was the best restaurant ever!”
The Ritz’s Burger Shack is a toddler approved restaurant located outside with a big grassy area for kids to run around. It’s also parent approved if you want to hang out and have a boozy milkshake or just watch the waves crash on the shore for a few minutes!
🧃 Easy Snacks for Kids in Maui (That Don’t Melt)
When you’re exploring Maui with kids, having the right snacks on hand can make all the difference. Between beach days, car rides, and long sightseeing stops, you’ll want options that hold up in warm weather and are easy for kids to eat on the go.
These parent-approved snacks travel well around the island and won’t melt or turn messy in your bag:
Gummies
Gummies are lightweight, easy to portion, and a favorite with kids of all ages. They’re ideal for beach bags, stroller pockets, and plane rides since they don’t melt like chocolate snacks.Fruit Snacks
Fruit snacks are great for quick snack breaks while sightseeing or driving around the island. Look for resealable packaging so you can spread snacks out throughout the day without waste.Pouches
Fruit and veggie pouches are especially helpful in Maui’s heat. They’re refreshing, mess-free, and easy for kids to eat while walking or riding in the car. Many are shelf-stable, so refrigeration isn’t an issue until they’re opened.
Love this idea but don’t want to pack all of this? I don’t blame you! Good news is that you can get these as soon as you land at the Target or Costco by the Maui OGG Airport!
💡 Parent Tip: Pack snacks in a small insulated pouch or shaded backpack pocket to keep them out of direct sun, especially during beach days or long drives.
We bring our Wagon instea of a Stroller
Traveling to Maui With Toddlers
Nap-friendly days
With toddlers down to one nap, we would try and get out early, because they were up early anyway, and make it back before naptime or time it where we would be in the car so they could nap. See our packing checklist for our sleep setup!
Stroller walks
There were a lot of stroller walks up and down Kaanapali beach when we had infants and toddlers! We would bring our beach wagon and put both toddlers in for a walk!
Pool days vs adventure days
We would typically alternate pool days and adventure days but most days involved a splash in the pool regardless.
We would even use a night swim as an incentive to eat their dinner.
What to skip with toddlers
The Road to Hana is great but is a longggg day for little ones. It’s essentially a 5 hour (or more) drive so you must plan accordingly to be on the road ALL day. You can break it up with stops but getting to the furthest point is a three hour drive straight there. Even the first stop from Kaanapali or Wailea is about a two hour drive. If you’re only in Maui for a few days this might be a good one to skip unless your kids are a bit older. If you’re pregnant and have nausea, don’t attempt it. I speak from experience.
Haleakala sunrises and sunsets are breathtaking, but don’t go with toddlers or younger.
Sunset cruises are fun but stressful with younger kids that like to run around.
Walking along the kid and stroller friendly Kapalua Coastal Walk in Maui
5-Day Maui Itinerary with Kids
Day 1 Arrival
12p Arrival into OGG, pick up rental car
1p stop at Target, Costco, then pick up Tin Roof
3p Check into Honua Kai Condo
4p 🛍️ Head to Whalers Village for shopping and dinner at Monkeypod (get extra food for fridge). Must order: Chicken Wings, Kalua Pork Pizza, Free Butter Noodles for kids, pie slices to go to eat in room after kids go to bed. Don’t forget to order the best Mai Tai on the island! All of this is on the Happy Hour menu!
6p Back to hotel for bedtime - Read The Trucks that Saved the Park for a sweet bedtime story
Day 2 Pool-time and Burgers
5a Kids wake up, make pancakes (and coffee) in room
7a Adult Breakfast pickup (or dine in) at Duke’s
8a Pool opens!
11a Back to room for lunch
12p Naptime
2:30p Drive to Ritz in Kapalua and have Linner at Burger Shack (it’s a big meal to fill up on). Must order: burger and milkshake
4p Explore Ritz and Kapalua or go to DT Fleming beach
6p Back to Hotel for Bedtime
Pipiwai Trail With Baby in Carrier
Day 3 Road to Hana Adventure
5:30a Kids wake up - make more pancakes for everyone (and another pot of coffee)
6:30a Drive the Road to Hana
8a Stretch legs at Banana Bread Stop
9a Arrive at Kīpahulu Visitor Center which is part of Haleakala National Park where you can explore the Oheo Gulch Pools, Pipiwai Trail (Bamboo Forest), and Waimoku Falls
11a Eat a packed lunch or drive to the Food Trucks in Hana
1p Stop at Wainapanapa Beach (Black Sand Beach) - make a reservation ahead of time.
3p Drive back to hotel
5p Dinner at hotel or pick up something on the way back
6p Bedtime
Day 4 - Pool and Luau
6a Kids wake up
7a Breakfast at Slappy Cakes or The Gazebo
8a Kapalua Bay for beach time, maybe try the coastal walk
11a Back to room for lunch
12p Naptime
2:30p Quick Pool Play
7p Bedtime
Day 5 - Last Swim and Depart
6:30a Kids Wake Up
7:30a Breakfast at Duke’s
8:30a Take turns with your partner packing
10:30a Drive to Airport (and cry the whole way)
Sticker Tape Road and Travel Magnatiles keep them entertained in the hotel room
What to Pack for Maui With Kids
I think giving a list of what not to pack is a shorter list because we bring almost everything! One thing I will advise is there is a Costco and a Target by the airport so make your Target order for pickup before your flight takes off so it’s ready for you when you land. You can always Instacart Costco or just head in for free snacks.
🏖️ Download our FREE Packing Checklist and below is a copy paste of what I packed for my 2 and 4-year-old on our last trip.
➡️ Shop our Toddler Packing Amazon list.
✈️ Carry-on List for the Plane
Personal Carry-on:
Toys & some books 📚
iPad
Headphones 🎧
Waterbottles
Wagon - We bring a wagon instead of a stroller these days now that the kids are older. Though we loved our travel stroller for when we had babies!
Snack Bag - Dedicated light weight backpack that folds up into a pouch
Pouches
That’s it bars
Pirate booty
Cereal Bars from Trader Joes
Bear Fruit Snacks
Gummies
Teddy Grahams
Here is the full list of everything else that scatters into checked bags:
Sleep
Inflatable beds
Sheets x 2
Blanket x 2
Small Toddler pillow
PJs
White noise / Hatch
Food Things
Food bag
Bowls 🥣
Baby Spoons 🥄
Bibs
Water cup/bottle
Milk cup
Sippy cup
Safe dish soap 🧼
Sandwich bags
Snack bowl
Travel and Misc
Car seat x 2
Car seat bags x 2
Swaddle
Clothes pins
Outlet covers
Beach bag
Beach blanket mat
Toiletries for Kids
Baby shampoo
Baby body wash
Soft Wash Cloths
Nail clippers
Brush
Kids Tylenol
Kids Sunscreen
Diaper rash cream
Baby Aquaphor/neosporin
Ear drops
Clothes and diapers
Sweatshirt for plane & Mainland airport travel
Socks
Shorts
Shirts
Swimwear
Swim diapers
Size 4 diapers
Pull ups
Overnight Diapers
Wipes
Hat
Multipurpose Sanitation wipes in ziplock bag
Toys and Entertainment - Shop our Toddler Packing Amazon list
Bath Toys - Cars 🚗
Books 📚 - Especially The Trucks that Saved the Park book 😘
Sand toys 🏖️
Football 🏈 - Water safe recommended for the pool!
Frisbee
Trucks 🛻
Cars 🚙
Sticker Road Tape
Plane toys - coloring book, sticker book
Cards 🃏
Travel Magnatiles
🛏️ Toddler Travel Sleep Hack (Game-Changer for Maui Trips!)
If you’re traveling to Maui with a toddler, let’s talk about sleep… because it can make or break your trip 😅
One of our absolute must-haves now is a toddler travel bed for hotel rooms, and I can’t recommend this enough.
Instead of trying to figure out where your toddler will sleep (or dealing with rolling out of a big hotel bed 🙃), this creates a cozy, familiar space just for them—no matter where you’re staying.
We’ve used this on our trips, and it makes bedtime SO much easier, especially after long beach days.
This toddler travel bed makes hotel sleep so much easier when traveling with kids.
How to Set Up a Toddler Travel Bed in a Hotel Room
Setting up a toddler travel bed in your hotel room is quick and easy—and makes bedtime so much smoother when traveling with kids.
Here’s how we do it:
• Inflate the toddler travel bed using the included pump (it takes less than a minute!)
• Add a twin bed sheet over the top to make it feel soft and familiar
• Layer with a blanket + their favorite stuffy for comfort
• Pack a toddler pillow — standard hotel pillows are usually too big and can be uncomfortable for little necks
This simple setup helps create a cozy, familiar sleep space—so your toddler can settle in easier, even in a brand new place
👉 You can see the exact one we use here: https://amzn.to/4bHtOv3
Why we love it:
• Perfect size for hotel rooms and condos
• Helps toddlers feel comfortable in a new space
• Easy to set up and pack
• Makes travel routines feel more like home
It’s one of those things you don’t think you need… until you use it once and never travel without it again!
Is Maui Worth It With Kids?
Yes—Maui is absolutely worth it with kids, especially for families traveling with toddlers and young children. The island offers calm, swimmable beaches, family-friendly resorts, walkable areas like Kā‘anapali, and activities that don’t require long drives or packed schedules. With the right balance of pool days, beach time, and nap-friendly outings, Maui is one of the easiest Hawaii islands to enjoy as a family. If you plan intentionally—choosing the right area to stay and skipping overly long excursions—Maui can be both relaxing and unforgettable with kids.
See all MAUI POSTS or here are our latest:
40 Things You Must Pack for Hawaii (Plus Printable List) Don't forget the...
Going to Maui or Kauai? Here is a list of packing essentials for Hawaii! Digital Download and Printable checklist included for those commonly forgotten items! This list consists of female items with what to wear suggestions and it can all fit in carry-on luggage! Don’t forget the…
A curated collage of Hawaii outfit ideas featuring summer dresses, neutral sandals, and travel-friendly accessories suitable for island days and evenings.
Packing Essentials for Maui or any Island in Hawaii, Plus a Pretty Printable Packing Checklist - 2026 Update
We’ve gone to Hawaii so many times I’ve become an expert on packing! We’ve been to almost all of the islands and they are relatively the same when packing. If I don’t have my list, I will forget things, so I always keep it handy since we venture to Hawaii at least once a year!
🏝️ Related Post: How to Spend 4 Days in Maui - Complete Itinerary
Maui Sunrise looking over Lanai
Download our Hawaii Packing Essentials Checklist
Since I love to organize things, I sorted my list by category so it is foolproof not to leave something behind. Granted Hawaii does have shops and anything can be bought there, but I’d rather save my money to come back!
Great Budget-friendly finds on Amazon for Hawaii Packing!
Want a FREE downloadable pretty Hawaii travel packing essentials printable checklist with everything in this post?
👙Click here: Packing Essentials for Hawaii
🛍️ See our shopping list (with some great budget-friendly dresses and tons of Hawaiian outfit ideas) straight from Amazon: Hawaii Packing Essentials
🏝️RELATED POST: How much does it cost to go to Maui in 2026? - Itinerary, budget, and more!
Here we go…
🌴 Is Maui Safe to Visit Right Now? (Updated March 25, 2026)
If you’re planning a trip to Maui and wondering how recent weather might affect things, I completely understand — it’s something I would be thinking about too 🤍
We were actually in Hawaii during the recent Kona Low storm, and while it was definitely unexpected at times, it was also a good reminder of how quickly conditions can change on the island. See our weather post on Instagram!
The good news is that most areas in Maui — especially Wailea, Kaanapali, and resort areas — remain open and welcoming visitors. That said, being prepared can make your trip feel so much more relaxed (especially if you’re traveling with kids!).
When I pack for Maui, I always like to plan for a mix of sun and occasional rain. A lightweight rain jacket, extra outfits, and easy layers can make a huge difference if the weather shifts — especially after beach time or sudden showers.
On our trip, we ended up spending a lot of time near our hotel (pool + beach), and having everything we needed with us made it feel easy and stress-free, even with changing weather.
As always, it’s a good idea to check current conditions before and during your trip, and use caution with ocean conditions, which can change quickly.
This packing list is designed to help you feel prepared, relaxed, and ready to enjoy Maui — no matter what your trip looks like
My Favorite Packing Hack for Saving Suitcase Space
My Favorite Travel Packing Hack (That Saves So Much Space)
One of my favorite packing tricks—especially when packing for a family trip to Hawaii—is using roll-up vacuum travel bags. Instead of rolling clothes or stuffing everything into packing cubes, these bags let you compress clothing in seconds.The best part? No pump needed.
Just fill the bag, seal it, and press the air out through the valve. My trick is to lean my torso over the bag and flatten it as the air escapes. It takes about 10 seconds and saves several inches of suitcase space.
This is especially helpful for:
Kids’ clothes
Sweatshirts and bulky items
Beachwear and cover-ups
Longer family trips
We can usually fit several extra outfits in our suitcase using this trick. I used this trick and packed 4 travel bags full of clothes, on the way back I didn’t at first to see if we had less room and the clothes did not fit back in without the travel bags!
These are the roll-up bags I use for travel:
https://amzn.to/4bAtheH
Pin this travel packing hack for your next Hawaii trip!
One of my favorite travel packing hacks! These roll-up vacuum bags compress clothes without a pump and save so much suitcase space—perfect when packing for Hawaii. Pin this travel tip for your next trip! ✈️🌺
My favorite Hawaii Outfit - dress with pockets!
CLOTHING FOR HAWAII AND HAWAII OUTFIT IDEAS - What to Pack for Hawaii Vacation
👗 Dresses - Short and Maxi (Hawaiian themed is always fun). I usually wear dresses for dinner and wandering around. See more Hawaii Outfit ideas here
🧤 Light Sweater - for cooler nights
🏃♀️ Workout Clothes - Hikes, Road to Hana, Runs on the beach, Zip-lining, golfing, etc.
👟 Sneakers - great to have if you’re walking around or going on adventures - I LOVE Asics Gel Venture shoes! The gel is so squishy and comfortable. Must HAVE!
✈️ Plane Outfit - I love a good oversized top and leggings since it is usually a long-haul
🧦 Basics - Socks, Underwear, Bras, Sports Bras, PAJAMAS!
👛 Small Purse - to hold an ID, Credit card, cash, phone, lipstick, gum and maybe a car key
💍 Accessories/Jewelry - Earrings, Necklace, Bracelet, Watch
🏝️ Looking for a complete Maui resource? Our Ultimate Travel Guide for Maui 2026 brings together hotels, activities, food, and travel tips in one place.
Hawaii outfit ideas with comfortable, breathable clothing and simple accessories designed for warm weather travel.
BEACH ITEMS FOR HAWAII - Hawaii Packing List for 5 Days
🩴Flip-flops - I love Havianas! They are the only flip flop brand I’ve bought for 15 years.
👡Sandals - To wear to restaurants and shopping, unless you want to wear your flip flops
👙Swimsuit - I bring a couple so one is always dry
🩱Swimsuit Cover Up - Great to wear around the resort or to get a drink at the pool bar!
👒Hat - Sun hat and baseball hat for hikes/outdoor activities
🕶️Sunglasses - Sojo Sunglasses on Amazon are budget-friendly, great quality, and trendy!
🌊Towel - or use the resort towels
🏖️Beach or tote bag - to throw towels, sunscreen, magazine, clothes, etc.
💦Water Bottle - Stay hydrated! Collapsable bottles are great!
🥨Snacks - We like to have granola bars, gummi bears, and M&M’s on hand for the plane or for the room
🧩Crossword Puzzle - This is our FAVORITE puzzle! Travel terms and countries! https://amzn.to/4lVixuR
Want a FREE printable/downloadable list with everything in this post?
➡️Click here: Packing Essentials for Hawaii or see our list of things to buy straight from Amazon: Hawaii Packing Essentials
Swimsuit coverup and hat perfect for Hawaii Travel
TOILETRIES FOR HAWAII
Reefsafe Sunblock - Save the reef! Buy reef safe! I noticed the Sheraton Maui had dispensers around the resort - check with your hotel ahead of time or bring your own!
Aloe Vera - I don’t know about you, but I always miss a spot.
Basics - Shampoo, Conditioner, Shower Gel (if you prefer your own, most hotels have these)
Deodorant
First Aid - I pack a few bandaids, Neosporin, aspirin… just in case!
Manicure Set - Manicure scissors (small TSA friendly ones), Nail clipper, tweezers, small nail file
Makeup! - I forgot my makeup bag once. It wasn’t pretty.
Hairbrush and Comb
Hairspray/Gel
Hair ties and Bobby pins - don’t forget, it gets windy on the beach!
Curling Iron or Flat Iron - Beachy waves are cool too!
Feminine Products
Maui Hawaii Beach
ELECTRONICS FOR HAWAII
GoPro - Get those adventure shots while swimming, snorkeling, zip-lining, surfing, waterfall hiking, or parasailing
Camera - We love our DSLR for a higher quality shot
iPad - load it up with shows and movies for the plane before you go and refresh the apps the day before you leave Hawaii as some downloads won’t work after 24 hours.
Mobile Phone - I mean I can’t go 10 minutes without mine. I also bring an old iPhone in a waterproof case for snorkeling and swimming!
Headphones/Airpods - don’t forget the little jack for Apple devices if you don’t use bluetooth
External battery - keep your electronics charged! We like the Mophie brand with built-in cables so you aren’t searching for them.
Cables - don’t forget your charging cables for your phone, headphones, tablet, watch…
✈️ See more plane tips here: Tips and Trick for the Airport and Airplane
Dive the Cathedral
Snorkel with Turtles
SCUBA DIVERS OR SNORKELERS PACKING LIST
We bring our own fins and masks so we can not only scuba dive but also snorkel whenever! Pro tip - buy a set and carry them on in a mesh bag!
Masks - I’ve tried so many masks and the Cressi Pano 3 is my personal favorite. At a budget-friendly price, it has one big window, fits well, and does not leak!
Fins
Baby Shampoo - use as defogging for the mask!
Rash Guards! Great for protecting your skin in the water! We forgot ours one year, so we bought new ones at our favorite store in Hawaii, Honolua Surf Shop
Dive Book and PADI/Dive Certification - for divers
Diver Essentials - Dive Watch, BCD, Wetsuit, etc. We usually make sure the dive shop has the basic package.
Scuba Mesh Bag to carry all of the above! We carry this mesh bag on the plane with our gear.
Want a FREE printable/downloadable list with everything in this post?
➡️ Click here: Packing Essentials for Hawaii
CARRY-ON LUGGAGE RECOMMENDATION
Would you believe me if I said I fit everything on my list for a 4-5 day trip in a carry-on and personal bag? We have the best carry-on that is spacious and seriously compacts all of our clothes - Travel Pro.
Most pilots and plane attendants carry this Travel Pro model as well. Although I love the ease of steering my suitcase with 4 wheels, having 2 wheels you get an extra couple of inches!
What NOT to Pack for Hawaii
Skip these items to pack lighter and enjoy Hawaii’s relaxed island lifestyle:
Heavy jackets or bulky layers – Hawaii is warm year-round; a light sweater is enough for evenings. ONLY pack these if you are going to a higher elevation early in the morning or late at night.
High heels or dressy shoes – Most places are casual; sandals and sneakers are best.
Too many outfits – You’ll live in swimsuits, shorts, and casual dresses. I try and pack a dress for each full day we are there that I can wear during the day or to dinner.
Full-size toiletries – Shampoo and sunscreen bottles can easily be found at Target, Walmart, and local stores to buy there or just pack travel sized items!
Non-reef-safe sunscreen – Hawaii restricts certain chemicals to protect coral reefs.
Expensive jewelry – Swimming and beach days increase the risk of loss.
Hair styling tools – Humidity and beach days make them unnecessary.
Large beach gear – Chairs, umbrellas, and snorkel gear are often provided or rentable.
Pro tip: If you won’t use it more than once, leave it at home.
Doing my dance in my Hawaiian Lilly Pulitzer dress with a mai tai at the Grand Wailea.
FREEBIES AND DISCOUNTS! Free Hawaii Packing Essentials Printable Checklist Download
Want a FREE printable/downloadable list with everything in this post?
➡️ Click here: Packing Essentials for Hawaii or see our list of things to buy straight from Amazon: Hawaii Packing Essentials
✈️ Find the best rate to visit paradise by booking your room through Booking.com Not only will you find the best rate out there but by clicking this link and booking a night, I receive a commission at no additional cost to you! PLEASE support our blog and bookmark this link! :-) Thanks!
Hawaii Packing Checklist FAQs
What should you definitely pack for Hawaii?
Pack lightweight clothing, swimsuits, sandals, comfortable walking shoes, reef-safe sunscreen, a reusable water bottle, and a light jacket for evenings or higher elevations.
What should you NOT pack for Hawaii?
Avoid heavy jackets, high heels, too many outfits, non-reef-safe sunscreen, bulky beach gear, and full-size toiletries. Hawaii’s climate and casual style make most of these unnecessary.
Do you need a jacket in Hawaii?
Usually no. A light sweater or windbreaker is enough for cooler evenings or breezy areas. The only exception is visiting higher elevations like Haleakalā or Mauna Kea.
Can you buy essentials in Hawaii instead of packing them?
Yes. Stores like Target, Walmart, CVS, and local markets are widely available, making it easy to buy sunscreen, toiletries, and beach items after you arrive.
Is reef-safe sunscreen required in Hawaii?
Yes. Hawaii restricts sunscreens containing oxybenzone and octinoxate to help protect coral reefs. Always bring or buy reef-safe sunscreen.
What shoes are best to pack for Hawaii?
Sandals, flip-flops, and comfortable walking shoes are ideal. Most travelers don’t need dress shoes or heels due to Hawaii’s relaxed dress code.
How many outfits should I pack for Hawaii?
Fewer than you think. Plan to rewear casual outfits and focus on swimsuits, cover-ups, and breathable clothing rather than packing a new outfit for each day.
Do hotels in Hawaii provide beach gear?
Many hotels and resorts provide beach towels, chairs, umbrellas, and sometimes snorkel gear. Check your hotel amenities before packing large items.
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Best Travel Gifts for Mom (or maybe even yourself)
Looking for a great gift for mom for that special occasion, Mother’s Day, Birthday, or Christmas? Check out some great travel gifts that every mom will love with great prices and a great selection. Shop online with Amazon and get Prime delivery in 2 days if you’re in a pinch looking for that last-minute gift!
Lake Tahoe with my Mom!
Great Travel Gifts for Moms of ALL Ages (or almost any woman!)
Looking for a great gift for mom for that special occasion, Mother’s Day, Birthday, or even Christmas? Check out some great travel gifts that every mom will love with great prices and a great selection. Shop online with Amazon and get Prime delivery in 2 days if you’re in a pinch looking for that last-minute gift! Here are some inspiring gifts for traveling Moms, women, and ladies of all ages!
Check out my favorite gift idea - a roller hairbrush that stores jewelry or other valuables!
I made an Amazon shop that has everything below listed in one place! Check out Travel Gift Ideas for Mom
Comfy, Light, Travel Dresses - WITH POCKETS
No matter where she’s going, Mom will probably need a dress for a nice dinner or just to explore! Pockets are ALWAYS a plus to any woman - Mom or not!
Travel Jewelry and Box
Let Mom travel worry-free with some beautiful cubic zirconia jewelry so she can still look fancy, but not worry about losing Grandma’s coveted earrings. Pack a jewelry box to prevent necklaces tangling. I like the one below so can pack a bangle bracelet. Make sure she packs it in her carry on!
Carry-on Luggage, Travel Bags and Purses
Make it a breeze for Mom to travel and get around. I like bags that neatly tuck on one another so I don’t have to lug too many things on my shoulder. A small crossbody purse is great to keep your wallet phone and passport secure at all times. Last, I don’t know if this is completely necessary, but a cupholder and USB charger on your bag can come in handy while waiting around for the plane at the airport!
Flight Comfort Necessities
Airports and flights can be taxing and exhausting, make sure Mom has everything she needs to get comfy and have a smooth flight. Style her in a cozy sweater and get a neck pillow for a snooze on the plane. Keep her hydrated with a collapsible/reusable water bottle and get a flex flap so she can watch her shows on a phone or tablet.
Nifty Travel Security Gadgets
If there isn’t a safe in the hotel, here are some great hidden security compartments to stash your things! Who would have thought that a roller brush could have something inside?! Also, the master lock safe is good to lock onto a pool chair so Mom can hop in the pool and leave her phone, camera, keys safe and secure!
Toiletry Travel Essentials and Bags
It’s so hard to travel without your daily essentials! Moms tend to acquire more toiletries as they get older with more eye creams, hair products, etc. Make sure Mom is covered with a 17 piece set to suit any toiletry need along with a bag that can unfold and hang on a hook in the hotel bathroom which is great when there is little counter space available. Dry shampoo saves me from looking haggard after a long flight (or a bad hair day)! I tried so many different products but if I leave Living Proof Dry Shampoo in for 3-5 mins, my greasy dirty hair looks full and clean!
Travel Friendly Electronics
Whether Mom is tech savvy or not, she’ll probably need some electronics for her trip! I love the Mophie external recharchable battery. I can typically recharge my iPhone or iPad twice on one full charge from the Mophie. A Kindle or iPad would be helpful to read her favorite book or she can save her favorite TV show! Also, here are some headphone suggestions that won’t mess up her hair.
Fun in the Sun
Mom deserves some beach or pool time! Have her lounge in style with a fun sun hat or cute flowy coverup!
Travel Essentials for New Moms
New Moms aren’t used to traveling with an extra little person! Give them some help with multipurpose items like a stroller that folds into a carrier, or a bag with lots of compartments and pockets. Some even have changing stations and bassinets built-in! GENIUS!
I made an Amazon shop that has everything above listed in one place! Check out Travel Gift Ideas for Mom
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Expensive Mistakes When Traveling with a Dog
Traveling with a dog is hard enough physically and emotionally but it can be costly too! Check out these great tips to make traveling with your dog a breeze and avoid expensive mistakes!
Photo Credit: Pexel
Traveling with your pup can be expensive, here are some do’s and don’t’s!
My friends at OurBestDoggo.com assisted me with this great advice to avoid expensive mistakes for traveling with your pup!
Sometimes in life, it’s time to hit the road with your best friend. When that best friend is a dog, however, there are several important things to consider before you head out. Without proper planning, you can wind up spending a boatload on a trip with your pup.
Leaving them behind, however, isn’t always an option. Doggy boarding or hiring a sitter can be expensive. Plus, most people think of their dogs as family members, and you can’t leave family behind when you head out on vacation. Fortunately, a little forethought is all you really need to save money on a holiday you, your family, and your dog will enjoy. Here’s a look at a few of the pricier mistakes you should avoid when traveling with your dog.
Forgetting Feeding Essentials
When you’re on the go, you can pick up snacks and meals at nearly any destination. However, your pup can’t always enjoy the same on-the-fly access that you can. That’s why it’s important to bring along plenty of food and dog-safe treats and cookies so your pup stays satisfied.
Don’t assume you’ll find the food your dog likes wherever you’re going – since animals’ stomachs don’t adjust easily to new foods, grabbing a new brand may be pricey in more ways than one. Besides, no one wants to face that hotel cleaning bill, especially when you’re on a budget. Plus, if you have your pal’s favorite treats on hand, you can give them something fun to chow down on while you sample the great desserts at your destination.
Moreover, you need to have the right gear so your pup can eat on the go. Collapsible food and water dishes are a must-have for the canine traveler. These allow you to give your dog meals at rest stops, hotels, and anywhere else you might otherwise struggle to feed them. You can save money on these items by searching for special online deals and coupons so your best friend can eat in style no matter where you end up.
Leaving Without Vet Clearance
Whenever you take your dog on a trip, it’s important to talk to your vet first to make sure they’re healthy enough to go on the road. Moreover, a veterinarian may be able to prescribe you with anti-nausea meds or sedatives than can save your car from a motion sickness disaster. Keeping your pal comfortable and safe on the road is a responsibility you take on as a pet owner.
However, your responsibilities don’t stop there. Depending on where you’re going and how you’re traveling, you may need a note from your vet ensuring your dog is fit for travel. Some states require that you have evidence with you that your pet is up to date on all shots. Travel without them, even if you’re just passing through, and you risk getting hit with a hefty fine.
Going on a Last-Minute Adventure
Spontaneous vacations can be incredibly fun, but they’re the wrong call with a dog; there are simply too many details to consider when it comes to traveling with a pet. For example, there’s the aforementioned vet visit. Moreover, you need to make sure you’ll be able to find pet-friendly accommodations wherever you end up. Do you know where the nearest emergency vet is to where you’re staying? What about those on the way?
Not only does heading out without this info put your dog in danger, but it also puts your pocketbook at risk, as well. After all, making a last-minute booking in a pet-friendly room is a surefire way to end up with terrible rates. The hotel knows you don’t have an abundance of options, so they have no real incentive to offer you a good deal. Of course, that’s assuming you’re able to get a pet-friendly room at all.
You need to think ahead when traveling with your dog, both to keep your pal safe and to make sure you’re saving money along the way. Keeping these things in mind will allow you to go on the adventure you and your pup deserve.
Looking for the right food for your 4-legged friend? Check out the best dog food here: How to Choose the Right Food For Your Dog
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5 Days in Tromsø, Norway: A Winter 5-Day Tromsø Itinerary
Planning 5 days in Tromsø, Norway? Follow our real winter itinerary with dog sledding, reindeer, whale watching, Northern Lights, a Sámi lavvu stay and cross-country skiing — plus updated 2026 planning tips.
What is there to do in Tromsø, Norway during winter? PLENTY!
Northern Lights just outside of Tromsø, Norway
Updated October 2026: We took this winter trip to Tromsø nearly a decade ago, and it is still one of our favorite trips we’ve ever taken. Since tours, restaurants and travel logistics can change over time, I’ve updated this guide with current planning information for 2026 while keeping our original experiences and photos throughout. When something has changed since our visit, I’ve noted it below.
If you’re wondering whether five days in Tromsø is enough, we packed an incredible amount into our winter trip. We went dog sledding, rode through the snow behind reindeer, saw wild orcas while whale watching, slept in a traditional lavvu near the Lyngen Alps, tried cross-country skiing and chased the Northern Lights.
We originally planned the trip around seeing the aurora, but because the Northern Lights are never guaranteed, we made sure the rest of our itinerary would be worth traveling to Norway for even if the sky didn’t cooperate. That turned out to be one of the best decisions we made — and it’s still how I would plan a winter trip to Tromsø today.
❄️ Jump to Your Tromsø Adventure
Planning your trip? Skip ahead to the section you need.
❄️ 5-Day Tromsø Itinerary at a Glance
Dog sledding, reindeer, whales, Northern Lights & plenty of Arctic adventure
Our itinerary began in central Tromsø but we spent the latter part of the trip outside the city near the Lyngen Alps, so this is best thought of as a Tromsø-based winter itinerary rather than five days entirely within downtown Tromsø.
How We Planned Our 5 Days in Tromsø
Seeing the Northern Lights in Tromsø was the original inspiration for this trip, but we knew there was never a guarantee that we would actually see them. Instead of planning our entire vacation around the aurora, we filled our five days with other winter adventures we would be excited about no matter what the sky decided to do — including dog sledding, reindeer sledding, whale watching and cross-country skiing.
At the time, Josh was working with a producer whose friend had a travel company called Off The Map Travel, which specializes in Arctic trips. After a few emails back and forth, they created a Tromsø itinerary that we could adjust based on the experiences we wanted to include.
One activity I wasn’t immediately sold on? Sleeping overnight in a traditional Sàmi lavvu (teepee) in the snow. Josh thought it sounded amazing. I thought sleeping in a tent above the Arctic Circle sounded slightly insane.
I eventually agreed — and it ended up being one of the most magical parts of the entire trip.
The next steps were to book our flights and purchase warm clothes since this California girl doesn't know what to do in the snow but wants to build a snowman.
🧤 Planning your own winter trip? See my Packing Essentials for Snow Guide and Check-List before you go.
Getting to Tromsø, Norway
For our trip, we were visiting family in Syracuse for Christmas first, so we flew SAS from Newark to Oslo and then Oslo to Tromsø. There were no nonstop flights from New York to Tromsø, so Oslo was our connection before continuing north above the Arctic Circle.
That basic route still makes sense for U.S. travelers today, although there are now more ways to reach Tromsø. Oslo has frequent flights to Tromsø, and the flight north takes about 1 hour and 50 minutes. Tromsø also has seasonal and year-round nonstop connections from a growing number of European cities, so depending on where you’re traveling from, you may be able to connect elsewhere in Europe instead of Oslo.
Connecting Through Oslo
When we took this trip, we arrived in Oslo, went through customs, collected our luggage and checked it again before continuing to Tromsø.
This is one thing that has changed since our trip. Some international passengers connecting to a domestic Norwegian flight can now use Oslo Airport’s Domestic Transfer service and have checked baggage transferred automatically. Eligibility depends on your airline, itinerary and whether everything is booked on one through-ticket, so check your baggage tag and current Oslo Airport instructions when you travel.
Getting From Tromsø Airport to the City
Tromsø Airport is only about 5 km from the city center, making the final part of the trip surprisingly easy. We had transportation arranged to our hotel, but today travelers can also take an airport bus, local city bus or taxi. The trip between the airport and central Tromsø generally takes about 10–20 minutes.
Once we arrived, we checked into Clarion Hotel The Edge and our five-day Tromsø adventure officially began!
Day 1: Arrive in Tromsø + Evening Dog Sledding
After landing in Tromsø, we headed straight to our hotel in the city center, dropped off our bags and got ready for our first Arctic adventure: dog sledding at night!
Clarion at the Edge - Tromso, Norway
Where We Stayed in Tromsø: Clarion Hotel The Edge
For the first part of our trip, we stayed at Clarion Hotel The Edge, right on the waterfront in central Tromsø.
The location worked really well for us because we could easily walk around downtown and reach several of the meeting points for our tours. The hotel is also only about 10 minutes from Tromsø Airport, so it was an easy place to start our five-day itinerary.
Our room overlooked Tromsø Sound toward the Arctic Cathedral, and the beds were especially welcome after the long trip from the U.S.
Tromsø views
View from our room at the Clarion in Tromso, Norway
Their restaurant on the second floor had good food (and wine). Oh and they had the best sign:
Stressed Spelled Backwards is desserts! YES IT IS!
2026 Update: Clarion Hotel The Edge is still one of the most conveniently located hotels in Tromsø. It sits right on the waterfront in the city center, with airport transportation nearby and easy access to restaurants, sightseeing and many Arctic tour departure points.
Planning Tip: If you want to do several excursions from Tromsø without renting a car, I would stay somewhere in the city center. Many dog-sledding, reindeer and Northern Lights tours include transportation from central meeting points.
Presis had swings as dining room chairs
Dinner in Tromsø Before Dog Sledding
Before our evening dog-sledding tour, we grabbed dinner at Presis Tapas in downtown Tromsø. We shared several small plates before walking over to the Scandic Ishavshotel to meet our tour.
2026 Update: Presis Tapas has since closed, so I wouldn’t build it into a current Tromsø itinerary. If you're following our schedule today, I’d simply plan an early dinner somewhere in the city center before your evening excursion.
Upon entering, the candlelight from the tables gave a cozy and welcoming vibe, and my eyes lit up when I looked over observing that instead of chairs, some of the tables had swings! The four-year-old inside me wanted to run over and sit on one instantly, but instead, the hostess sat us at a table with plain old regular four-legged chairs by the window instead. It was probably for the better because I would have played on the swing and knocked over food, water, or a candle with the potential of lighting the restaurant on fire. So instead, I sat for a quick picture.
The food was delicious. We had their ham, bread with salt and olive oil, potatoes with a garlic aioli sauce, and spicy meatballs. It was the perfect amount of food for the 2 of us, almost too much!
🎿 Click here for our Packing Essentials for Snow Guide and Check-List
Getting acquainted with the dog before my evening dog sledding adventure in Tromsø
Evening Dog Sledding in Tromsø
We didn’t waste much time settling in. That same evening, we walked over to the Scandic Ishavshotel, where a small bus from Arctic Adventure Tours was waiting to take us out to their husky kennel.
The drive took about 30 minutes, and the second we arrived I wanted to run straight over to the dogs. They were bouncing in and out of their little houses, barking and clearly very excited that it was almost time to run.
Before heading out, we were given winter suits, boots, gloves and headlamps and went through a quick orientation on how to handle the sled.
Then the dogs realized it was time to go.
They immediately started barking and jumping with excitement.
Dog sledding pup sleeping
They were chained to little dog houses and jumping in and out of them, excited we were there to visit and give them attention! We were called into a room to suit up and get a winter suit, boots, gloves, and a headlamp for our sledding. It was probably for the better to wear their gear since the dogs were so smelly (but still so cute) it wouldn't stink up our clothes on our first day.
We had a quick orientation and headed to the sleds. The dogs instantly started barking and jumping with excitement when they saw us!
Our sleds and very excited huskies waiting to head out into the snowy Arctic night near Tromsø.
What Dog Sledding Was Actually Like
We rode two people to a sled and took turns riding and driving.
I definitely preferred riding!
Driving a dog sled is much more active than I expected. You aren’t just standing on the back while the dogs do all the work. When you go uphill, you may need to run or push alongside the sled to help the dogs, and you need to pay attention to braking and keeping the right distance from the team in front of you.
Once we started moving, though, it was incredible.
We raced through the dark Arctic landscape beneath a sky full of stars, with almost nothing around us except snow, dogs and the glow from our headlamps.
And then our dogs decided to make the evening a little more interesting.
At one point, our team became completely tangled and refused to keep going. Since we were the last sled, everyone else disappeared ahead of us while we sat there wondering if we had somehow managed to get lost in the Norwegian wilderness on our very first night.
Eventually we saw a headlamp coming back toward us.
We were saved!
Even our instructor had trouble untangling the dogs, but after a few more minutes we were finally back on the trail.
Our total sledding time was around an hour, and despite our little detour, it was easily one of the most memorable ways I could imagine beginning a winter trip to Tromsø.
How could you get mad at a face like this:
After the tour, we changed out of our wet clothes and warmed up with some hot cocoa in this traditional Sami lavvu.
Can You Still Book This Dog-Sledding Tour?
Yes. Arctic Adventure Tours is still operating in Tromsø, although the exact experience may have changed since our visit.
For the 2026–2027 winter season, its current self-drive dog-sledding tour lasts about four hours total, including transportation from Tromsø, with approximately 70–80 minutes of sledding. Guests still meet outside the Scandic Ishavshotel before traveling to the company’s kennel on Kvaløya. Thermal suits, winter boots and mittens are included.
The experience is active — you’ll help the dogs on parts of the trail — so this is not just a sightseeing ride.
Would I do it again? Absolutely. If you’re planning five days in Tromsø in winter, dog sledding would still be near the top of my list.
Reindeer Sledding in Tromso, Norway
Day 2: Reindeer Sledding + Sámi Culture
Our second day in Tromsø started with one of the experiences I was most excited about: reindeer sledding with Tromsø Lapland.
We left Tromsø and traveled out into the snowy countryside, where we met our Sámi guides and their herd of reindeer. Compared with dog sledding the night before, reindeer sledding was much slower and more peaceful — which gave us time to actually take in the incredible Arctic scenery around us.
Feeding Reindeer
Reindeer Sledding Near Tromsø
When we visited, our reindeer-sledding route was about 3 kilometers and lasted around 40 minutes.
We sat bundled together on the sled while the reindeer pulled us through the snow, surrounded by mountains and a seemingly endless white landscape. It felt completely different from anything we had ever done before.
And yes — the reindeer were just as adorable as I hoped they would be.
After the ride, we had the chance to spend more time around the animals and learn about their importance to Sámi culture and reindeer herding traditions.
Learning About Sámi Culture
The experience was about much more than simply riding behind a reindeer.
Our Sámi hosts shared stories about their culture, traditions and connection to the reindeer, giving us a glimpse into life in Northern Norway that we never would have gotten by simply staying in Tromsø.
Reindeer husbandry remains an important part of Sámi culture today, and many winter reindeer experiences around Tromsø combine time with the animals with storytelling, traditional food and an introduction to Sámi history and contemporary life.
This ended up being one of those activities that was both fun and genuinely interesting, and I’m really glad we made room for it in our five-day itinerary.
Reindeer in Norway
Can You Still Go Reindeer Sledding With Tromsø Lapland?
Yes! Tromsø Lapland is still operating, but the experience offered today is a little different from the one we took.
For the current winter season, the reindeer-sledding tour lasts about 4½ hours total, including transportation from Tromsø. The camp is approximately 50 minutes outside the city, and the current itinerary includes:
A roughly 20-minute reindeer sled ride
Feeding the reindeer
A traditional lunch of bidos, a Sámi reindeer stew, with alternative dietary options available
Hot drinks
An introduction to Sámi culture from a Sámi guide
Winter gear including snowsuits, boot covers, hats and mittens
So if you are recreating our itinerary today, don’t expect the exact 40-minute sled ride we experienced. Tour length and sledding conditions can also vary depending on the snow.
Would I still include this in a 5-day Tromsø itinerary? Absolutely. It was completely different from dog sledding and gave us a much deeper connection to the culture and history of Northern Norway.
Explore Tromsø
After returning to the city, we had some time to walk around central Tromsø before our evening plans.
Tromsø is compact enough that you can easily explore much of the downtown area on foot. If I were planning this trip today, I would intentionally leave a few hours open here rather than booking another major excursion.
Use the afternoon to wander the waterfront, browse the shops and cafés around the city center, or simply warm up somewhere before heading back out into the Arctic night.
And after two days packed with dogs, reindeer and snow, a slower afternoon felt pretty nice.
See our full story: Reindeer Rides in Tromsø, Norway
Drinks at Huken
Address: Storgata 39, 9008 Tromsø
That evening, we ate at Huken Pub, a tiny, cozy spot in downtown Tromsø that we loved for its casual atmosphere and hearty pub food.
2026 Update: The original Huken Pub location has since closed, but the Huken concept continues today as Huken Brygg at Storgata 39 in central Tromsø. The current restaurant still serves casual comfort food like burgers, baked potatoes and savory pancakes, along with drinks across its three-floor bar and restaurant space.
Huken Pub in Tromso, Norway
A storm came in so strong that the rain from it turned into icy roads. We were supposed to go out to see the lights but the bus wasn't going to be safe in the icy conditions and we had to cancel our tour.
We weren't surprised, it was still overcast and others who had gone out the night before drove 2 hours to Finland to see the Northern Lights, some weren't able to catch them at all.
Huken Pub brews
Instead, we went to Huken Pub right around the corner of our hotel. We had some time to kill, where we just wanted to sit and have a beer. This was the perfect place. The decor is unique, suitcases as tables and barn chic interior.
Huken Pub Bar
After a couple of drinks, we walked around for a bit and enjoyed the charm of this quaint town.
Streets of Tromso
Tromsø Cathedral glowing on a winter night in the heart of downtown Tromsø.
Tromsø Harbor at night, glowing with colorful lights along the waterfront.
Day 3: Whale Watching + An Overnight Lavvu Stay
Day 3 was a big one. We started the morning searching for wild orcas, checked out of our hotel in Tromsø, traveled toward the Lyngen Alps and ended the night sleeping in a traditional Sámi lavvu beneath the Arctic sky.
And somewhere in between all of that, we finally saw the Northern Lights!
Wild orcas surfaced all around the boats during our winter whale-watching trip near Tromsø.
Whale Watching From Tromsø
Whale watching was one of the experiences we were most excited about on this trip.
We booked our excursion through Off the Map Travel with Arctic Cruise in Norway (ACIN) and boarded the Arctic Princess, a Lagoon 450 catamaran, from Tromsø Harbor.
Because we were heading out on the water in the middle of winter, I was slightly concerned about just how cold we were going to be. Thankfully, warm waterproof suits were provided — although I still recommend wearing plenty of warm layers underneath.
Once we were out on the water, another tour company alerted our captain that they had spotted a pod of orcas.
We headed straight toward them.
And then there they were!
We saw a pod of around 10 wild orcas, surfacing between the boats as they moved through the fjord. Sometimes we could spot their distinctive white patches as they came above the water, while flocks of seabirds circling overhead helped give away where the whales were feeding.
No, they weren't leaping through the air like Free Willy — but seeing orcas in the wild, surrounded by snowy Norwegian mountains, was still incredible.
We watched them for what felt like almost an hour before the cold finally got the best of me. Even with all of my layers, my feet were freezing!
👉 Read our full experience: Whale Watching With Wild Orcas in Norway
Seeing wild orcas surrounded by snowy mountains was one of the most unforgettable experiences of our Tromsø trip
Important 2026 Whale-Watching Update
This is one part of our itinerary that I would plan differently today.
When we visited, the whales were much closer to Tromsø and we were able to take a relatively straightforward boat trip from the harbor.
In recent years, the whales have generally followed the herring farther north toward the Skjervøy and Kvænangen area. Because of that, many whale-watching excursions from Tromsø now take most of the day. Some travel north entirely by boat, while others combine a bus or minibus transfer with a boat excursion from Skjervøy.
Whale-watching season is typically November through January, although the exact timing and location of the whales can change from year to year.
Planning Tip: If whale watching is important to you, I would treat Day 3 as a full whale-watching day when planning a current Tromsø itinerary. Don't schedule another time-sensitive excursion immediately afterward.
And, of course, these are wild animals — sightings are never guaranteed.
Leaving Tromsø for the Lyngen Alps
After whale watching, we returned to Clarion Hotel The Edge, where we had arranged a late checkout so we could shower and change before the next part of our adventure.
Then it was time to leave central Tromsø behind.
Off the Map travel had arranged transportation toward the Lyngen Alps, where we met Ann Kristin from Aurora Alps. This would be our home base for the remainder of the trip.
Our original plan was to sleep in a cabin that first night.
I was relieved.
I had agreed to sleep in a traditional lavvu at some point during this trip, but I was still trying to convince myself that sleeping in a tent in the snow above the Arctic Circle was a good idea.
Then we arrived and learned that our itinerary had changed.
We were sleeping in the lavvu that night.
O.M.G.
The traditional Sámi lavvu where we spent the night, tucked into the snowy forest outside Tromsø.
Sleeping in a Traditional Sámi Lavvu
We grabbed our bags and followed a little illuminated path to the lavvu, which sat only a short distance from the main house.
And almost immediately, all of my worries disappeared.
The whole setup was enchanting.
Inside, candles and string lights gave the lavvu a warm glow. There was a wood-burning stove, plenty of firewood, a table filled with food, hot drinks waiting for us, a cozy sitting area and a separate sleeping space with sleeping bags.
This was definitely my kind of camping.
As long as someone kept that fire going!
Sleeping in the lavvu ended up being one of the experiences I remember most from our entire Norway trip.
👉 Read the full story: Sleeping in a Sámi Lavvu in Norway
2026 Update: Aurora Alps still operates its winter basecamp in Breivikeidet, about 50 minutes outside Tromsø, with activities including dog sledding, snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. However, I could not find our exact overnight lavvu experience offered as a current bookable stay, so I would consider this part of our itinerary an experience from our original trip rather than something you can necessarily recreate exactly today.
We strapped on snowshoes and headed into the snow to look for the Northern Lights near our lavvu outside Tromsø.
Snowshoeing Under the Arctic Sky
Sitting outside our lavvu were two pairs of snowshoes.
I thought they looked cute.
I had absolutely no idea how to use them.
Ann Kristin told us conditions might improve enough to see the Northern Lights that night and suggested taking the snowshoes out to a clearing nearby if the sky began to clear.
So we grabbed our camera equipment, Josh helped me get my snowshoes on, and off we went.
At first, the sky was cloudy with a light rain.
We waited.
After about 15 minutes, stars slowly started appearing as the clouds broke apart.
We were expecting the Northern Lights to suddenly appear as obvious bright-green streaks across the sky.
That's not exactly what happened.
Josh started taking pictures of what looked like faint glowing clouds.
Then he looked at his camera screen.
“THAT'S IT!”
There they were.
Green Northern Lights.
Our first Northern Lights sighting
Once we knew what we were looking for, we started pointing our cameras at practically every suspicious-looking glow in the sky.
Some of the aurora was much easier to see through the camera than with our eyes that first night, but we didn't care.
After having our Northern Lights tour canceled the night before because of the weather, we had finally seen the aurora in Norway.
And we still had two nights left to look for more.
Day 4: Dog Sledding + a Northern Lights Chase
After our night in the lavvu, we packed up and left our bags with Aurora Alps, who moved them over to the cabin where we would be staying that night.
Then we headed back toward Tromsø for something that was starting to feel very familiar by this point: more dog sledding!
Daytime Dog Sledding
Yes, we went dog sledding twice on this trip.
After our first nighttime adventure, we felt like pros when we arrived for our second dog-sledding excursion. We suited up, met another very enthusiastic group of huskies and climbed onto our sleds.
This experience ended up feeling completely different from our first one.
Instead of racing through the darkness beneath the stars, we could actually see the snowy landscape around us — although the weather wasn't exactly cooperating. It was rainy, and some parts of the trail had so much water that dog sledding started to feel a little like water skiing!
Eventually water found its way inside my winter suit, and I was wet and freezing.
Thankfully, after the ride we headed inside to warm up with lunch and plenty of hot chocolate.
Would I Go Dog Sledding Twice Today?
We loved both experiences, but if I were planning this 5-day Tromsø itinerary today, I probably wouldn't book two separate dog-sledding tours unless dog sledding was one of the main reasons for the trip.
Our nighttime and daytime tours were surprisingly different, so I don't regret doing both. But with only five days in Tromsø, I would now consider using this time to explore more of Tromsø or try another Arctic activity.
If you've never been dog sledding before, though, I would absolutely include one dog-sledding adventure in your itinerary.
Our daytime dog-sledding adventure near Tromsø gave us a completely different view of the snowy Arctic landscape.
Evening Northern Lights Chase
That evening was the excursion we had been waiting for: a dedicated Northern Lights chase.
We had already gotten our first glimpse of the aurora near our lavvu the night before, but this time we were going out with a guide specifically to find clearer skies.
Our private tour had been arranged through Off the Map Travel, and our guide picked us up directly from our cabin.
Instead of simply driving to one predetermined viewing spot, we looked at the weather and cloud cover and went wherever conditions seemed most promising.
And we drove.
And drove.
At one point, we even crossed the border into Finland in search of clearer skies!
This is one of the biggest things I learned about chasing the Northern Lights in Tromsø: sometimes the best place to see them isn't anywhere near Tromsø.
We bundled up in practically every warm item we owned, brought all of our camera gear and made several stops throughout the night as our guide searched for breaks in the clouds.
Eventually, we found them.
The Northern Lights!
Northern Lights in Finland
Seeing the aurora with a guide was completely different from trying to identify faint green clouds on our own the previous evening. We could move with the weather, escape cloud cover and spend the night actively searching for the best conditions.
After several hours of chasing the aurora, we finally headed back to our cabin — cold, tired and very happy.
Do You Need a Northern Lights Tour in Tromsø?
You don't have to take a tour to see the Northern Lights. We actually saw them on our own near our lavvu the night before.
But after doing both, I think a Northern Lights chase is absolutely worth considering, especially if this is your first trip to Tromsø.
Guides monitor weather, cloud cover and aurora conditions and can drive significant distances to find clearer skies. Current Northern Lights chases from Tromsø commonly last around 5–8 hours, and some tours may cross into Finland when conditions are better there.
Important: If your tour may cross the border, bring your passport or national ID with you.
And remember: even with a guide, the Northern Lights are a natural phenomenon. No tour can guarantee that you'll see them.
My Biggest Northern Lights Planning Tip
Don't save your Northern Lights tour for your final night.
Weather in the Arctic changes quickly, and our first scheduled aurora excursion was canceled because of poor conditions. By booking your chase earlier in your trip, you leave yourself another night or two to try again if necessary.
For a five-day Tromsø itinerary, I would plan a dedicated Northern Lights chase around Day 2, 3 or 4 rather than waiting until Day 5.
We checked out of the teepee and stored our bags with Aurora Alps, which they brought them over to the cabin next door later that day. We went back towards Tromsø but stopped just after the bridge for our day dog sledding tour! There were so many cute smelly pups that were so happy to see us!
We felt like pros since we had already gone dog sledding at night in the dark! We put on our suits over our clothes and jumped on our sleds.
It was kinda rainy and it seemed like the path they were taking hadn't had snow in a while. In certain areas it was almost like water skiing which was fun but since it was raining, water had somehow leaked into my suit, and I was wet and very very cold.
We warmed up and had some lunch in the community room (and lots of hot chocolate!).
Winter in Norway
Day 5: Cross-Country Skiing + New Year’s Eve
By Day 5, we were exhausted.
We had packed so much into the previous four days that we finally let ourselves sleep in a little before heading out for one last Arctic activity: cross-country skiing.
Cross country skiing in Norway
Cross-Country Skiing Near Tromsø
This was my first time cross-country skiing, so there were definitely a few falls involved!
Once I got the hang of it, though, it was such a peaceful way to experience the winter landscape. We skied through quiet woods, surrounded by snow, and even spotted moose tracks along the way.
My thighs were definitely sore the next day, but I loved trying something completely new.
Partway through our outing, we stopped at a small cabin tucked away in the woods. There was no electricity, just a cozy fire where we cooked hot dogs and warmed up with hot chocolate from a thermos.
Before leaving, we signed the cabin's guest book and wrote that we hoped we'd return someday.
It was such a simple afternoon compared with some of our bigger adventures — and one of those little moments from the trip that I still remember.
Our cozy cabin near the Lyngen Alps made a peaceful home base for the final days of our Tromsø winter trip.
Can You Still Go Cross-Country Skiing Near Tromsø?
Yes. Aurora Alps still offers cross-country skiing from its Breivikeidet basecamp outside Tromsø, including experiences designed for beginners.
You definitely don't need to be an experienced skier to try it. I certainly wasn't!
If you're looking for a quieter winter activity between dog sledding, whale watching and Northern Lights tours, cross-country skiing is a fun way to slow down and actually enjoy the snowy scenery.
New Year’s Eve in Norway
Our fifth day also happened to be New Year's Eve, which made the final night of our trip even more memorable.
We had dinner in the main hall and then bundled up again around midnight to watch the neighbors set off fireworks.
Fireworks seemed to be coming from every direction, with neighboring areas putting on their own displays across the snowy landscape.
It was such a fun way to ring in the New Year above the Arctic Circle.
2026 Update: Norway currently allows private fireworks on New Year's Eve between 6:00 p.m. on December 31 and 2:00 a.m. on January 1, although local restrictions may apply. So the old 11:30 p.m.–12:30 a.m. rule in my original post is no longer accurate.
One Last Northern Lights Show
We thought the fireworks were going to be the grand finale of our trip.
Norway had other plans.
At around 1 a.m., the clouds began clearing and we noticed the Northern Lights glowing directly above us.
Out came the cameras again.
We stood outside watching the sky for a while before eventually heading back inside to warm up and start getting ready for bed.
Then Josh went outside for one more look.
A few moments later, he came running back in.
“Come out! Come out!”
This time, I didn't need a camera to tell me what I was looking at.
Northern Lights in Norway
Bright green streaks were visible across the sky.
One of the glowing bands became brighter and greener and then started moving across the sky.
The Northern Lights were dancing.
After spending the entire trip hoping we would see them — dealing with clouds, rain, icy roads and even a canceled aurora tour — there they were on our final night.
It was the perfect ending to our five days in Tromsø and a pretty incredible way to start a new year.
Even a softer aurora display felt magical against the dark winter sky near Tromsø.
As I was looking in the sky, one of the glowing clouds got brighter and greener and started moving! I turned to Josh and said, "look at that," pointing at the green streak of the aurora borealis!
The Northern Lights finally danced across the sky on our last night in Norway — the perfect ending to our five days in Tromsø.
This green streak only got brighter and brighter and danced across the sky, dazzling different colors of white, green and blue as it moved.
Watching the Northern Lights glow above our cabin near Tromsø was one of the most unforgettable moments of our Norway trip.
One Thing This Trip Taught Me About Seeing the Northern Lights
If seeing the aurora is important to you, give yourself multiple nights in Tromsø.
We didn't see spectacular Northern Lights every night. One tour was canceled because of weather. On another night, the aurora was much easier to see through our cameras than with our eyes.
And then, on our final night, they danced directly above us.
That's exactly why I wouldn't plan a Tromsø trip around one single Northern Lights excursion. Fill your days with experiences you'd love even if the aurora never appears — and give yourself several nights for the sky to cooperate.
Don’t forget to check out our packing list for your next snow adventure!
Would I Plan the Same 5-Day Tromsø Itinerary Today?
Honestly, mostly yes.
We took this trip almost a decade ago, but many of the experiences we loved most are still exactly what I would want from a winter trip to Tromsø today: dog sledding, reindeer sledding and learning about Sámi culture, whale watching in season, chasing the Northern Lights, and spending some time outside the city surrounded by Arctic scenery.
The biggest change I would make is doing only one dog-sledding tour instead of two. Our nighttime and daytime experiences were surprisingly different, so I’m glad we did both, but with only five days in Tromsø, I would probably use that extra half-day to explore more of the city.
I’d leave time to wander downtown Tromsø, walk along the harbor and consider visiting places like the Arctic Cathedral, Fjellheisen cable car or Polaria. We packed our original itinerary so full of excursions that we didn’t spend nearly as much time actually exploring Tromsø itself.
I would also plan whale watching as a full-day activity today. The whales have moved farther north in recent years, so current excursions can take much longer than the trip we experienced.
One thing I definitely wouldn’t change is giving ourselves several nights to look for the Northern Lights. Weather canceled one of our planned excursions, we had subtle aurora sightings on other nights, and then finally watched the lights dance across the sky on our last night.
So if I were planning these five days in Tromsø again, my ideal itinerary would still include:
One dog-sledding adventure
Reindeer sledding + a Sámi cultural experience
Whale watching if traveling during whale season
A dedicated Northern Lights chase
A winter activity like cross-country skiing or snowshoeing
Time outside Tromsø to experience the Arctic landscape
At least a few hours to actually explore Tromsø itself
The details may have changed since our trip, but the overall idea hasn’t: fill your days with Arctic experiences you’ll love even if the Northern Lights don’t appear, and give yourself several nights for the sky to surprise you.
That’s still exactly how I would plan five days in Tromsø today.
Tromsø Itinerary FAQs
Is 5 days in Tromsø enough?
Yes. Five days gives you time for several major winter activities while also giving you multiple nights to look for the Northern Lights.
What is the best month for this Tromsø itinerary?
For the closest match to our trip, I’d choose November through January. That gives you the best overlap of winter activities, whale watching, and Northern Lights season.
Can you see the Northern Lights in Tromsø?
Yes, but sightings are never guaranteed. Give yourself several nights since cloud cover and weather can change quickly.
Do you need a car in Tromsø?
No. Tromsø is walkable, and many popular winter tours include transportation from central meeting points.
Can you go whale watching in Tromsø year-round?
No. The main whale-watching season is generally November through January, and current tours often travel farther north toward Skjervøy.
Please note this is not a sponsored post and based on my own personal experience, all thoughts are my own.
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Flying in 2019: Travel Tips and Tricks for the Airport and Flight
Flying in 2019: Airport and Flight tips and tricks for an easy, headache free travel day. Check out how to get through the airport, TSA, and what to pack in your carry-on for your next flight! #travel #flying
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As jet setters, we fly often and have gone through many airports and sat on many flights. It’s hard to make the time go by fast when you’re flying, but here are some tips that will get you from airport arrival to landing:
Check-in to your flight in advance and get your mobile boarding pass!
Check-in for your flight 24 hours in advance so you don’t have to wait in those long lines at the airport. This can also be a great way to get your mobile boarding pass and get a good seat assignment if you weren’t able to select your seat when you booked your flight.
Bring Snacks and Stay Hydrated
Airport prices are usually pretty high, save money by bringing your own snacks with you. Most airports have installed water bottle refill stations, I always bring an empty water bottle with me in my carry-on luggage so I can fill it up once I get through security. If I forget my water bottle, I’ll always buy one at a store after security. Amazon sells a great compact water bottle perfect for traveling with!
Travel Outfit
I love to wear a long flowy top (shirt or sweater, depending on the weather) and leggings. When you’re cramped in that middle seat for 5 hours, at least you’re comfortable! I always wear socks since most airports make you take your shoes off when going through security. Although I have TSA Pre and I don’t have to take off my shoes, I try to avoid boots or heels so the sensors don’t go off. Sneakers usually work best! Airports and airplanes can either be extremely cold or too hot, so always pack a sweater or hoodie and wear layers to peel on and off. Also, try wearing compression socks to avoid fatigue and bloating.
TOP TRAVEL ELECTRONICS
Bring a Portable Charger
Not all airports have convenient outlets or charging stations or sometimes they are all occupied! Make sure you bring a portable charger, my favorite is the Mophie Powerstation that already has a cord built in!
Load up your iPad or Laptop with entertainment!
24 hours prior to my flight, I download movies, TV shows from Amazon and Netflix and a few games to my iPad. You must refresh any downloads within 24 hours you plan to view them or the app will require internet. You will have to take your laptop and any other large electronics out of your bag when going through security, so make sure to pack your laptop or any other electronics with easy access to them. If flying international, you’ll have to take out all electronics in most countries.
Checked Luggage Tips
Secure your luggage!
Whether you’re checking luggage or not, you should get TSA approved locks. In the event your luggage gets into the wrong hands, your belongings will be safe. They are also useful when you check in or out of the hotel and leave your bag with the bell desk. You can never be too careful. Take a picture of your luggage in case your checked luggage gets lost, having a photo of it in addition to your checked luggage tag can make it easier to find.
Beautiful Bag Tags
Also, if you are checking your luggage, get a bright luggage tag or tie a colorful ribbon on the handle of your suitcase so you can find it in the sea of luggage look a-likes.
The BEST Carry-on Bag
Looking for a great carry-on? From a weekend in Vegas to 4 days in Hawaii or 2 weeks in Thailand, this Travel-Pro carries it ALL! You can easily compact everything to maximize your space! Even pilots and flight attendants use this bag!
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OTHER HELPFUL PACKING LISTS FOR YOUR NEXT TRIP:
We almost skipped Maui Ocean Center because of the admission price, but our 3- and 5-year-olds loved it so much they wanted to explore everything twice! Here's our honest review, favorite exhibits, ticket prices, and tips for visiting Maui Ocean Center with toddlers and preschoolers.