The Ultimate Maui Travel Guide (2026): Where to Stay, Eat, & Explore

Kaanapali Beach Views

The Ultimate Maui Travel Guide (2026 Edition)

Planning a trip to Maui and wondering where to stay, what to do, and the best time to visit? After more than a decade of traveling to Maui—and publishing over 20 in-depth Maui travel guides—this is our most complete and up-to-date resource yet.

This Ultimate Maui Travel Guide (2026) covers everything you need to plan the perfect trip, whether you’re visiting Maui for the first time, traveling with kids or toddlers, planning a honeymoon or babymoon, or returning to explore more of the island. From choosing between Kāʻanapali vs. Wailea, to the best hotels in Maui, top things to do, where to eat, and real travel tips you won’t find in brochures, we break it all down in one place.

We’ve stayed all over the island, explored Maui in every season, eaten at dozens of restaurants, road-tripped the Road to Hana, snorkeled with Green Hawaiian Sea Turtle, and experienced Maui both with and without kids—so everything here is based on real trips, not sponsored recommendations.

Inside this guide, you’ll find:

• The best time to visit Maui (and when to avoid crowds)

• Where to stay in Maui for families, luxury travelers, and first-timers

• Our top things to do in Maui, from beaches to waterfalls

• A 4-day Maui itinerary you can actually follow

• What to pack, how much a trip really costs, and reservations you need in advance

Whether you’re planning a short getaway or a full island adventure, this guide is designed to help you plan smarter, avoid common mistakes, and make the most of your time in Maui.

This Maui Guide Is Perfect For:

• ✔ First-time visitors
• ✔ Families with toddlers & kids
• ✔ Honeymoons & babymoons
• ✔ Travelers planning 4–10 day trips
• ✔ Visitors looking for 2026 updates

Honua Kai Sunset Views in Maui, Hawaii

Jump to a Section

• Best Time to Visit Maui
• Where to Stay: Kaanapali vs Wailea
• Top Things to Do in Maui
• What to Pack for Maui
• Best Restaurants in Maui
• Best Ice Cream in Maui
• 4-Day Maui Itinerary
• Maui With Kids
• First-Time Maui Tips
• Maui Travel FAQs

None of these recommendations are sponsored. Every hotel, restaurant, and activity is included purely because we love it—and because we believe in supporting local Maui businesses.

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Quick Facts: Maui

• Best Time to Visit: October–Early December
• Best Area to Stay: Kaanapali (Families), Wailea (Luxury)
• Ideal Trip Length: 7–10 days
• Do You Need a Car?: Yes
• Good for Kids?: Very

Best Time to Visit Maui is in October - Kula Farm Pumpkin Patch Views

Best Time to Visit Maui

We got married in October and after trying a few other months, we think this is the best time of year! The weather isn’t as hot as the summer months but you still get plenty of sunshine, and if you book early, prices are cheaper than the high season of Spring/Summer. It’s also the beginning of whale season!

See what else makes October in Maui the best season to visit!

Quick Seasonal Summary

Here is a breakdown of each month:

• January–March (Whale season)

• April–May (Shoulder season sweet spot)

• June–August (Peak summer travel)

• September–October (Best value months)

• November–December (Holiday crowds)

When to Visit Maui

Maui is a year-round destination thanks to its warm temperatures and consistent sunshine, but the best time to visit depends on what you’re looking for — fewer crowds, better prices, whale sightings, or perfect beach weather. Understanding Maui’s seasons can help you plan a trip that matches your travel style and budget.

January–March: Whale Season & Winter Escape

Winter is one of the most popular times to visit Maui, especially for travelers escaping cold weather. From January through March, humpback whales migrate to the waters around Maui, making this the best time of year for whale watching.

What to expect:

• Peak whale season

• Slightly cooler temperatures (still warm by mainland standards)

• Larger winter swells on the north and west shores

• Higher prices and more crowds, especially in February

This is a great time for whale tours, scenic drives, and enjoying resort amenities, though some beaches may be less calm for swimming.

April–May: Shoulder Season Sweetie Spot

Spring is one of the best overall times to visit Maui. The weather remains excellent, crowds thin out after spring break, and prices begin to drop.

Why this is a favorite:

• Warm, sunny days

• Fewer crowds than winter

• Lower hotel rates compared to peak season

• Calm ocean conditions for snorkeling

April and May are ideal for first-time visitors who want a balanced experience without the peak-season rush.

June–August: Summer Travel & Family Season

Summer brings warmer temperatures and consistent sunshine, making it a popular time for families and school vacation travel.

Summer highlights:

• Excellent beach weather

• Calmer ocean conditions overall

• Great snorkeling and water visibility

• Busy resorts and higher demand

While crowds are higher, Maui handles summer tourism well thanks to its spread-out beaches and resorts.

September–October: Best Value Months

Early fall is often considered the best time to visit Maui for deals. After summer travel slows and before the holiday rush begins, prices drop and crowds are lighter.

Why fall is underrated (and our favorite!):

• Lower airfare and hotel prices

• Warm ocean temperatures

• Fewer visitors at major attractions

• Great conditions for beach days

September and October are especially appealing for travelers who want a relaxed, less crowded experience.

November–December: Holiday Travel & Seasonal Transition

Late fall brings a mix of quieter travel early in November and busy holiday periods in late December.

What to know:

• Early November can be calm and affordable

• Thanksgiving and Christmas are peak travel times

• Weather remains warm, though slightly more variable

• Holiday pricing applies in late December

If you’re visiting during the holidays, booking accommodations early is essential.

No matter when you visit, Maui offers beautiful scenery, warm weather, and unforgettable experiences year-round — it’s just a matter of choosing the timing that fits your travel priorities.

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Where to Stay in Maui: Best Resorts and Areas

Choosing the right area is the most important part of planning your Hawaii vacation. Having stayed all over the island, we’ve narrowed it down to the two most popular regions.

Kaanapali vs Wailea: Where to Stay in Maui

	Kaanapali	Wailea
Vibe	Lively, walkable, family-friendly	Upscale, quiet, romantic
Budget	$ – $$$	$$$ – $$$$
Best For	First-timers & families with kids	Honeymoons & luxury travelers

Grand Wailea Mermaid Fountain

Best Locations to Stay in Maui

Choosing where to stay in Maui can completely change your experience. Each area of the island has a different vibe, climate, and pace — and the “best” choice depends on whether you’re traveling with kids, as a couple, or for relaxation.

Kaanapali

Kaanapali offers a lively resort area with a long beachfront walkway, shopping, and restaurants all within walking distance. This is our preferred area to stay!**

Best for:

- Walkability

- Larger resorts

- Group trips and families

Wailea

Wailea is known for luxury resorts, calm beaches, and beautifully manicured grounds. It’s ideal for families, honeymooners, and travelers who want easy beach access without sacrificing comfort.

Best for:

- Families

- Couples

- First-time visitors

Lahaina

Lahaina has more local charm and historic appeal, with a mix of condos, boutique hotels, and oceanfront dining. There aren’t as many options to stay here after the fire in 2023.

Best for:

- Condos

- Budget-friendly stays

- Central access

Kihei

Kihei is one of the most affordable places to stay and offers sunny weather and easy access to beaches.

Best for:

- Budget travelers

- Condo stays

- Long-term visits

Hana

Hana is remote, quiet, and lush — perfect for travelers who want to disconnect. SIGN ME UP!

Best for:

- Adventure seekers

- Romantic stays

- Slower travel

Kaanapali vs. Wailea: Which is better?

• Kaanapali: Best for families, first-timers, and those who want a walkable "resort" feel. It is generally more budget-friendly.

• Wailea: Best for honeymoons, luxury travelers, and a quieter, more exclusive atmosphere.

• Guide to Kaanapali

  Kāʻanapali Beach is one of the most iconic beaches in Maui, known for its soft golden sand, calm clear water, and unbeatable resort location.

  Whether you’re traveling with kids, planning a romantic getaway, or visiting Maui for the first time, Kāʻanapali offers the perfect mix of relaxation, walkability, and activities—all with stunning ocean views. Read our full Kaanapali Guide for more!

  Important note about the 2023 Lahaina fires: While the Lahaina wildfires in August 2023 were devastating for the historic town of Lahaina, the Kāʻanapali resort area was not directly impacted. Most hotels, beaches, and resorts in Kāʻanapali remained intact and operational, and the area continues to welcome visitors. Travelers staying in Kāʻanapali can expect a normal resort experience, while also being mindful and respectful of the ongoing recovery efforts in West Maui.

• Guide to Wailea

  Exploring Wailea is a vibrant mix of adventure and relaxation, with some of our favorite activities including shopping, snorkeling, and hiking.

  The boutique-lined streets offer a perfect blend of high-end brands and charming local shops, ideal for leisurely browsing and finding unique treasures.

  When it’s time to dive into nature, snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters reveals an underwater paradise teeming with colorful reef fish and graceful sea turtles. For those craving a bit of sweat and stunning vistas, the nearby hiking trails wind through lush landscapes and volcanic formations, providing breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and beyond.

  Whether you’re eager to indulge in retail therapy, embrace marine wonders, or chase panoramic panoramas, Wailea effortlessly serves up unforgettable experiences. Read our full Wailea guide here. Wailea effortlessly serves up unforgettable experiences.

Our Top Recommended Maui Hotels

• Honua Kai Resort & Spa: Our absolute favorite for stays of a week or more. Since these are condo-style suites with full kitchens, it’s the best place to stay in Maui for families. Read our full Honua Kai Review.

• Sheraton Maui Resort: Located right on Black Rock, this is a snorkeler’s paradise. We highly recommend booking a room overlooking the bluff for the best sunset views on the island. See our Sheraton Maui Review.

• Grand Wailea: If you are looking for the ultimate luxury experience in South Maui, this is it. The pools are legendary. Check out the Grand Wailea experience.

Pro Tip: Looking for more options? Check out our complete list of the Best Hotels in Maui.

Honua Kai 3-bedroom Condo

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Favorite Top 10 Things to Do in Maui

There’s more to Maui than the beaches and pools! Get out and explore the beautiful island! Our top 10:

• Road to Hana

  The Road to Hana is a 64-mile stretch that runs around the northeast side of the island with rainforests, beaches, stunning coastal views, and waterfalls galore! It’s very different (and adventurous) than the rest of the island! Top Stops on the Road to Hana:

  • Lava Tubes

  • Twin Falls Waterfall

  • Black Sand Beach also known as Waiʻānapanapa State Park (you must have a reservation)

  • Pipiwai Trail (Bamboo Forest) → Waimoku Falls

  • Coconut Glen’s Ice Cream - obviously we got ice cream!

    See more stops and photos and a handy map in our Road to Hana post or our Road to Hana Guide.

• 🤿 Snorkeling Adventures

  We love finding Green Hawaiian Sea Turtles! See our favorite spots including Black Rock, to find our shell friends as well as amazing tropical fish!

• Scuba Dive

  We are scuba certified and LOVE seeing everything Maui has to offer under the sea! There are so many cool spots like a cave called the Cathedral that even has what looks like an alter and stain glass window! See more Scuba Adventures to be had!

  Pro-tip: Get out and snorkel Black Rock during the day and see what lies beneath at night with a guided night scuba dive!

• Hiking Trails

  There are some amazing hikes in Maui with stunning views for all levels of hikers. I’m more of an occasional hiker so if I can do these, you can do it too! See our favorite Maui Hiking Trail list, including the Kapalua Coastal Walking Trail or Pipiwai Trail (Bamboo Forest) that ends at Waimouku Falls (waterfall)!

  All this and more on our full Top 10 Things to do in Maui list.

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What to Pack for Maui

Just a swimsuit! Kidding! We used to travel to Maui for a few days with a carryon and snorkel gear before kids. It’s a little different now that we bring 10 pieces of luggage/carryons/diaper bags but I still pack the same things for me!

Packing for Maui is refreshingly simple thanks to the island’s warm weather and relaxed vibe, but a few smart additions can make your trip far more comfortable. Between beach days, scenic drives, and cooler evenings at higher elevations, having the right essentials ensures you’re prepared without overpacking.

Clothing & Footwear

Maui’s dress code is casual, breathable, and beach-friendly. Think dresses with pockets!

Bring lightweight clothing you can easily mix and match, including shorts, tanks, sundresses, and swimsuits. It’s a good idea to pack more than one swimsuit so you always have a dry option. Comfortable walking shoes are essential for exploring towns, short hikes, and sightseeing, while sandals or flip-flops are perfect for beach days.

Even though Maui is warm year-round, a light jacket or sweater is helpful for evenings, ocean breezes, or trips to higher elevations like Haleakalā.

Beach & Sun Protection Essentials

The Hawaiian sun is strong, so sun protection is one of the most important things to pack.

Reef-safe sunscreen is required in Hawaii and should be applied generously throughout the day. A wide-brim hat and UV-protective sunglasses provide extra protection, while a reusable water bottle helps you stay hydrated during long beach days or sightseeing.

If you plan to explore rocky beaches or snorkel directly from shore, water shoes can be very helpful.

Day Trips & Adventure Gear

Many Maui activities involve being out all day, so having a few practical items on hand makes exploring easier.

A small backpack or beach tote (my fave) is ideal for carrying sunscreen, water, snacks, and electronics. A portable phone charger is especially useful on longer drives like the Road to Hana. Motion sickness remedies are also worth packing if winding roads affect you.

For those planning outdoor adventures, a camera or action camera is a great way to capture Maui’s scenery, waterfalls, and underwater views.

Packing for Families & Kids

Traveling to Maui with kids means packing with sun protection and comfort in mind.

Rash guards or swim shirts help reduce sun exposure, and water shoes protect little feet on rocky beaches. Snacks, refillable containers, and favorite comfort items can make long days and travel transitions easier.

Many accommodations provide baby gear, but it’s always best to confirm ahead of time if you’re relying on items like cribs or high chairs.

Good news: there is a Target and Costco right by the airport if you forget anything!

Toiletries & Practical Items

Most hotels and vacation rentals provide basic toiletries, but it’s helpful to bring travel-size essentials you prefer. After-sun care like aloe vera can be a lifesaver after long days outdoors, and a small first-aid kit is useful for minor scrapes or blisters.

Bug spray is optional but recommended if you plan to visit lush or rainy areas. I always bring it because I often get bites no matter where I go!

What You Can Skip

To save luggage space, you can leave heavy jackets, formal clothing, and bulky beach gear at home. Maui is casual, and most items can be rented or purchased locally if needed.

Want a Full, Printable Packing List?

Don’t miss my favorite outfits for Hawaii as well as my FULL list of must haves- a detailed, printable checklist that covers every category — including electronics, toiletries, and family-specific items!

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New Kaanapali Beach Location for Maui Brewing Company

Best Restaurants in Maui: Where to Eat

After a decade of visits, we’ve narrowed down the absolute best places to eat in Maui. From high-end dining to the best food trucks, these are our non-negotiable stops.

1. Monkeypod Kitchen (Kaanapali & Wailea)

Famous for its Lilikoi Foam Mai Tai, Monkeypod is a must-visit. It’s vibrant, family-friendly, and has a great happy hour. Read our Monkeypod Kitchen Review.

2. Merriman’s Maui (Kapalua)

For the best fine dining in Maui with a view, Merriman’s is unbeatable. It’s located right on the point in Kapalua and offers a true "farm-to-table" experience. It’s also our pick for the best Mai Tai on the island.

3. Star Noodle (Lahaina)

While it has moved locations over the years and after the Lahaina fires in 2023, Star Noodle is back home to Lahaina and remains a staple for Asian-fusion fans. Be sure to book your reservations weeks in advance—this is one of the hardest tables to get! See what to order at Star Noodle.

4. Local Favorites & Quick Bites

• Aloha Braised Food Truck: For an authentic, local taste of the islands.

• Burger Shack at the Ritz: The best casual lunch spot with a view of DT Fleming Beach. Don’t forget to save room for a milkshake!

• Island Cream Co: You cannot leave Maui without trying their chocolate macadamia nut ice cream!

Hungry for more? See our Full Guide to the 10 Best Restaurants in Maui.

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Best Ice Cream in Maui

We’ve enjoyed a whole lot of delicious ice cream and refreshing shave ice during our time in Maui! Over the course of our trip, we’ve discovered a few favorite spots that we find ourselves returning to again and again:

1. Island Cream Co - chocolate macadamia nut ice cream is a must!

2. Maui Gelato - options of gelato, Roselani ice cream, affogato, floats, shakes, mochi ice cream, shave ice, and waffles, you won’t be disappointed.

3. Burger Shack Shakes - Not only do they have amazing burgers, but fantastic milkshakes (and some boozy shake options too!). The view of the beach at Kapalua doesn’t hurt either!

4. Hula Pie at Duke’s Beach House Maui - A giant slice of Macadamia Nut ice cream pie and chocolate drizzled on top! Do you need more of an explanation?

Hula Pie at Duke’s Beach House

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Mai Tai at Merriman’s Restaurant

Best Mai Tai In Maui

Merriman’s makes the absolute best Mai Tais in all of Maui! But being the dedicated taste tester that I am, I’ve also tried Mai Tais from several other spots across the island, just to be sure there isn’t an even better one hiding somewhere. See where to get all the Best Mai Tai’s in Maui.

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Our Favorite 4 Day Maui Itinerary

How do you plan your days in Maui? It’s definitely not easy, but hey, someone’s got to take on the challenge! When traveling with toddlers, we tend to go with the flow and follow the mood of the day, since little ones can be unpredictable. However, back when it was just us adults, we’d carefully map out what we wanted to see and do ahead of time because some popular spots require permits or reservations well in advance. Don’t get me wrong, we still do some planning with the kids, but these days it’s mostly about balancing a bit of adventure with plenty of relaxing pool and beach time to keep everyone happy!

See our full 4-day Itinerary post.

How Many Days Do You Need in Maui?

You need at least 4 days in Maui! We’ve done extended weekend trips (Thursday to Sunday) and we’ve also stayed in Maui for a month (live like a local!), either way I was still crying all the way to the airport on our last day.

Here is a simple breakdown of how many days you need in Maui and what you should do:

• 3–4 days: Beaches + resort time only

• 5–6 days: Add Road to Hana or Haleakala

• 7–10 days: Ideal for first-timers

• 10+ days: Slow travel + repeat favorites

7-10 days is typically the best amount of time in Maui to get the most out of adventures and relaxation!

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Iao Needle Hike in Maui

How Much Does a Trip to Maui Cost?

Is Maui expensive? It doesn’t have to be! Here’s a real breakdown of how much our Maui trip cost, including flights, hotel, rental car, food, and activities.

See what a mid-range Maui vacation actually costs and plan with confidence.

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Babymoon in Maui

I’ve been pregnant twice in Maui and still managed to have an absolutely wonderful time! Even though I was super cautious during my pregnancies and preferred to spend a lot of time just relaxing and taking it easy, there were still so many amazing activities and beautiful spots to explore around the island.

Maui truly offers a great balance for anyone looking to enjoy themselves gently while soaking up the stunning scenery and island vibes! See more in our Babymoon in Maui post.

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Honeymoon and Romantic Things to do

For a truly romantic getaway, start your evenings with candlelit dinners at seaside restaurants where the ocean breeze pairs perfectly with gourmet cuisine.

Follow that with a sunset cruise, drifting gently on the water as the sky bursts into a palette of pinks and purples—a picture-perfect moment made for two.

After soaking in the sunset, indulge in a couple’s massage to melt away any lingering stress, leaving you both feeling blissfully connected and relaxed.

And for a splash of adventure, snorkeling hand-in-hand among vibrant coral reefs and colorful fish lets you explore a dreamy underwater world together, making memories as deep as the ocean itself.

Find more love on Maui.

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Maui with kids

Maui with Kids

Traveling to Maui with kids is absolutely worth it—and we say that after visiting the island with babies, toddlers, and young kids.

Maui is one of the easiest Hawaiian islands to do as a family, with calm beaches, stroller-friendly resort areas, kid-loving restaurants, and plenty of low-stress activities.

From choosing the best area to stay to planning nap-friendly days and finding beaches that feel more like shallow pools, our complete Maui With Kids guide breaks down everything you need to know to plan a smooth, memory-filled family trip.

🧃 Easy Snacks for Kids (That Don’t Melt in Hawaii)

The best snacks for kids in Hawaii are no-melt, mess-free, and easy to pack. Top options include:

• Gummies – Lightweight, individually wrapped, and won’t melt in the heat.

• Fruit snacks – Easy to portion and perfect for quick snack breaks.

• Pouches – Shelf-stable, refreshing, and ideal for on-the-go eating.

These snacks hold up well during beach days, road trips, and sightseeing in warm Hawaiian weather.

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Jeeps are the best Rental Cars in Maui, Hawaii

First-Time Maui Tips and FAQs

1. Do you need a rental car?

   • ABSOLUTELY! It is very hard to get around the island without one.

2. Is Maui expensive?

   • Yes, but there are many things you can do to cut some costs.

3. How many days is enough?

   • 4 days at least! I always cry on the way to the airport no matter how long we stay.

4. What not to skip on your first visit?

   • SNORKELING is a must! Find a turtle!

5. What part of Maui is best to stay?

   Wailea and Kaanapali are the most popular for first-time visitors.

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Kula Country Farms - Maui, Hawaii

Reservations You Need in Advance for Maui

• Road to Hana park reservations

• Haleakalā sunrise permits

• Popular restaurants

• Snorkel tours

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is Maui worth visiting in 2026?

Yes, Maui is absolutely worth visiting in 2026. Maui offers world-class beaches, incredible snorkeling, lush rainforests, luxury resorts, and unforgettable scenery. The island has reopened many beloved restaurants and attractions, making it a wonderful time to visit.

2. What is the best time of year to visit Maui?

The best time to visit Maui is October through early December. You’ll enjoy warm weather, fewer crowds, better hotel prices, and the beginning of whale season—without the peak-season crowds of summer and spring.

3. How many days do you need in Maui?

A minimum of 4–5 days is recommended to experience Maui, but 7–10 days is ideal. This allows time for the Road to Hana, snorkeling, beach days, and relaxation without feeling rushed.

4. Where should you stay in Maui for the first time?

First-time visitors should stay in Kaanapali or Wailea.

• Kaanapali is best for families, walkability, and value.

• Wailea is ideal for luxury, romance, and quieter resorts.

5. Is Maui good for families with kids?

Yes, Maui is extremely family-friendly. Many resorts offer kids’ clubs, calm beaches are perfect for swimming, and activities like snorkeling, whale watching, and easy coastal walks are great for all ages.

6. Is Maui expensive?

Maui can be expensive, but it’s possible to plan a trip on a moderate budget. Staying in condo-style resorts, booking activities early, renting a car, and mixing restaurants with food trucks can significantly reduce costs.

7. Do you need a rental car in Maui?

Yes, renting a car is highly recommended in Maui. Public transportation is limited, and many of the island’s top attractions—like the Road to Hana, Haleakalā, and hidden beaches—require driving.

8. Do you need reservations for Maui attractions?

Yes, several popular Maui attractions require advance reservations, including:

• Road to Hana state parks

• Haleakalā sunrise

• Popular restaurants and snorkel tours

Booking early helps avoid disappointment.

9. Is the Road to Hana worth it?

Yes, the Road to Hana is absolutely worth it. It’s one of Maui’s most scenic experiences, featuring waterfalls, rainforests, black sand beaches, and dramatic coastal views. Planning your stops ahead of time makes the experience much more enjoyable.

10. Is Maui good for honeymoons and romantic trips?

Maui is one of the best honeymoon destinations in the world. With luxury resorts, sunset cruises, beachfront dining, couples’ massages, and breathtaking scenery, it’s perfect for romantic getaways.

Common Maui Planning Questions

Is Maui better than Oahu for a first trip?

Maui is better for travelers who want beaches, scenery, and a relaxed pace, while Oahu offers more city life and nightlife.

What is the cheapest month to visit Maui?

September and October typically offer the lowest prices for flights and accommodations.

Is Maui walkable?

Some resort areas like Kaanapali are walkable, but most visitors need a car to explore the island.

Are there free things to do in Maui?

Yes — many of Maui’s best experiences are free, including beaches, scenic drives, hiking trails, and sunrise or sunset viewpoints.

Can you visit Maui without doing the Road to Hana?

Absolutely. While it’s popular, many travelers prefer beaches, snorkeling, and resort time instead.

Is Maui good for a relaxing vacation?

Yes — Maui is ideal for slow travel, beach days, and unwinding, especially in Wailea and Hana.

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Black Rock at Kaanapali Beach - best for snorkeling

Planning Mistakes to Avoid

Maui trip planning can be overwhelming as there is so much to do and see! Here are a few mistakes to avoid when booking your Maui vacation:

• Not booking Haleakalā sunrise early - make sure you get your reservation well ahead of time!

• Skipping reef-safe sunscreen - let’s all do our part in preserving and protecting the reef!

• Underestimating drive times - Maui is bigger than you think!

• Overpacking activities with kids - don’t plan too much for little ones to prevent tired meltdowns!

• Not renting a car - you’ll definitely want a car, Uber and ride shares are available but limited.

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Whether this is your first time visiting Maui or you’re returning to experience it in a new way, we hope this guide helps you plan a trip filled with unforgettable moments, stress-free days, and plenty of sunshine. Maui has a way of slowing life down—in the best possible way—and with a little planning, it becomes the kind of trip you’ll talk about long after you’ve unpacked. If you found this Ultimate Maui Travel Guide helpful, we’d love for you to save it for later or share it with friends and family who are planning a trip too.

Pin this guide to Pinterest so it’s easy to find when you’re ready to start booking, and feel free to share it on social media to help other travelers plan their perfect Maui escape 🌴

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More Maui Posts:

Maui With Kids: The Ultimate Family Travel Guide 2026

Kids love RUnning on Airplane beach in Maui and in and out of waves

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

Quick Jump

• Best Places to Stay in Maui with Kids
• Best Beaches in Maui for Kids
• Best Restaurants in Maui with Kids
• Things to Do in Maui with Kids
• 5-Day Maui Itinerary with Kids
• What to Pack for Maui with Kids

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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

Area	Best For	Walkability	Beach Type
Kā‘anapali	First-timers, toddlers	⭐⭐⭐⭐	Sandy, swimmable
Wailea	Luxury, older kids	⭐⭐	Resort beaches
Napili / Kapalua	Quiet stays, babies	⭐	Calm coves

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.

🏨 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!

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.

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Honokōwai Beach Park

🏝️ Best Beaches in Maui for Kids

The key to the best kid friendly beaches in Maui:

• Calm water

• Shallow entry

• Easy parking

• Nearby bathrooms

Here’s what we recommend:

• Kaanapali Beach is great for kids who are strong swimmers or like to boogie board. There are a few free lots to park in but they fill up quickly. Otherwise it’s best to park at a resort or the Whalers Village Shopping parking lot. See more but

• Airplane Beach just north of Kaanapali has a more shallow entry and calmer waves than Kaanapali. Our toddlers loved running up to the waves crashing on the shower then running from the water before it could catch them. Parking is harder to find or the free lot near the Sheraton is quite a distance and fills up quickly.

• Kapalua Bay is also a great play for littles that want to play in the ocean that is more Shallow with softer waves. If you peak on the other side of the bay off the grassy knoll, you’ll find turtles sleeping. There’s a parking lot (fills up quick, get there early) with public bathrooms nearby too.

• Honokōwai Beach Park has a playground AND a great beach that is protected by a rock reef so it’s more like a pool that even infants can sit and play in! There’s also a public bathroom and parking lot too!

Look Closely for the Sleeping Green Hawaiian Sea Turtles in Kapalua Bay

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🌊 Things to Do in Maui With Kids

• Easy hikes

  • Iao Valley is great to wander around and has different hiking levels for all ages. There’s also a stream to swim in.

  • Kapalua’s Coastal Trail is even stroller friendly with stunning beach views.

    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 a few animals to look at and pet. Kula is above Wailea but you ave to drive around to get to it. Also, try the pumpkin bread sold in the little stand!

• Road to Hana Stops

  The Road to Hana is such a great way to see how gorgeous Maui is filled with waterfalls, beaches, banana bread stops and more! If you do go, it is an ALL day adventure, so plan and prepare ahead of time.

  You must stop at the Black Sand Beach and try to get to Haleakala National Park for a hike through the Pipiwai Trail (Bamboo Forest). See our full list of Road to Hana Stops for more!

• Professional Maui Family Photos

  Maui provides the perfect background for any photo, so take your professional family portraits on the island! Think Christmas card photos - Male Kalikimaka! Our favorite local, Tracy Leboe at Baby Hawaii Photography, is super talented taking maternity photos but also captures gorgeous family moments! Book your session ahead of time.

Family Portraits taken by Baby Hawaii Photography

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🍽️ Best Kid Friendly Restaurants in Maui

1. 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!

2. 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!”

3. 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

1. 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.

2. 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!

3. 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.

4. 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.

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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

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

5p Luau at Hyatt or Sheraton

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)

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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.

Here 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 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 multiple bags:

Sleep 

• Inflatable bed x 2

• Sheets x 2

• Blanket x 2

• Small Toddler pillows x 2

• 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 📚

• Sand toys 🏖️

• Football 🏈

• Frisbee

• Trucks 🛻

• Cars 🚙

• Sticker Road

• Plane toys - coloring book, sticker book

• Cards 🃏

• Travel Magnatiles

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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.

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More Maui Posts:

A Curated Christmas in Napa: A Luxury 3-Day Guide to St. Helena & Yountville

Vines, Lights, and Luxury: Our Hallmark Movie Escape to St. Helena

We recently celebrated my 40th birthday just north of Napa in St. Helena and Yountville, and it was truly magical! Since my birthday is in December, the entire region was decorated for the holidays—it felt like walking onto a Hallmark movie set.

While many people flock to Napa in the summer or for Harvest Season, I wouldn’t trade this cozy, festive vibe for the world. The crowds are thinner, the vines are dormant (making way for the yellow mustard flowers!), and it’s much easier to snag reservations at luxury hotels and Michelin-starred restaurants.

Three days is the perfect amount of time to soak it all in. Here is our tried-and-true winter itinerary.

The Alila main building - front desk and restaurant

Day 1: Arrival and Fireside Luxury

Where to Stay: Alila Napa Valley

I actually teared up a little saying goodbye to our room at checkout. The Alila Napa Valley is the ultimate luxury retreat. Our balcony featured a private fire pit and a giant outdoor soaking tub with relaxing bath salts. The hotel's main building is a stunning Victorian, but the rooms are sleek, high-tech, and modern.

• Pro-Tip: This is a fantastic use of Hyatt Points if you’re a member!

Bath tub and fire pit on the Balcony of our Alila Hotel Room

Bouchon front Entrance in Yountville

Dinner: Bouchon (Yountville)

This wasn't our first time at a Bouchon, but it was our first time at the Yountville location. Since Thomas Keller is a local, his restaurants operate with absolute perfection. Our waiter even offered to take photos of us by the Christmas decorations!

• Must-Haves: The roasted chicken, the Mac n Cheese (trust me), and the profiteroles.

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Model Bakery Breakfast: Latte and English Muffin

Day 2: Historic Vines & "The Brightest Town"

Breakfast: Model Bakery

This St. Helena staple has been around since 1908 and is world-famous for its English Muffins (Oprah’s favorite!).

• Insider Hack: We ordered via Uber Eats and had them delivered to our Alila balcony to eat by the fire pit. It’s the perfect way to skip the line at the shop or the even longer line at Bouchon Bakery.

The warm English muffin didn’t disappoint, especially after being smothered in butter and strawberry jam!

Christmas in the Beringer Wine Caves

Wine Tasting: Beringer Vineyards

Don’t let the grocery store labels fool you—Beringer’s estate wines are high-end, exclusive, and incredible. You can book a tasting in the Rhine House, which feels like a Victorian Christmas dream or the cozy caves are decorated with lights and Christmas trees. We opted for the cave tour where Corey was our tour guide and was fantastic!

• The Bridge: If you stay at the Alila, there is a private bridge that lets you walk right into the Beringer vineyards.

• Christmas tree made out of wine barrels: The Beringer wine barrel Christmas tree is not located on the Beringer property but it is setup off a side street in St. Helena. If you’re on 128 or Main Street you’ll see the setup on Hunt Avenue which is currently closed for the display. It’s across from Model Bakery which I recommend getting a peppermint latte and frosted sugar cookie to add even more Christmas spirit!

St. Helena Beringer Wine Barrel Christmas Tree near Napa - Main Street 128 and Hunt Ave

Brew Bus at Burgers and Half Bottles Pop-up in Napa

Lunch: Burgers and Half Bottles Pop-up

We were lucky to catch this seasonal Thomas Keller pop-up. The menu featured Wagyu burgers, lobster rolls, and fried chicken sandwiches paired with half-bottles of wine.

• The Vibe: Grab a "Pliney" from the VW Brew Bus and enjoy the casual, festive atmosphere.

Handwritten Wines Tasting Room in Yountville

The Afternoon Stroll & Tasting: Handwritten Wines

Walk off lunch by exploring the Yountville Art Walk, which is beautifully lit for the holidays. Then, head to Handwritten Wines for a boutique, intimate "Side by Side" tasting. It’s a wonderful contrast to the grand scale of Beringer.

Ciccio Pizza - pepperoni with Hot Honey

Dinner: Ciccio

This spot is a local favorite. It has a cozy, lively, and unpretentious vibe that is perfect for a festive winter night out.

The pepperoni pizza with hot honey cannot be missed. It’s even good cold by the fire.

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Day 3: The Grand Finale

Breakfast: Model Bakery (Part 2!)

We loved it so much we walked down St. Helena’s Main Street to visit in person. They have a much larger menu in-store.

• Must-Have: The Chipotle Breakfast Sandwich (egg, pepper jack, tomato, and chipotle aioli).

Model Bakery is decked out with Christmas Decorations in St Helena

Last Minute Shopping: Browse the festively decorated boutiques on Main Street in St. Helena.

In the middle of town you can find a festive 36-foot Wine Barrel Christmas Tree (a major photo op).

7 Wine Barrel Tree Fun Facts

• 109 Wine Barrels Stacked

• Recycled Barrels Donated by Beringer Vineyards

• 10,500 Pounds - 36 Feet Tall

• Earthquake Proof

• 800 Feet of Garland Used

• Nearly 2600 Ornaments

• St. Helena Chamber of Commerce Designed the Tree with JCD Atmospheric Studios

This Christmas tree made of Beringer wine barrels can be found in St. Helena on Hunt Ave off Main Street 128.

St. Helena Wine Barrel Christmas Tree near Napa Valley

Lunch: Auberge du Soleil

Even on a foggy day, the view of the valley is breathtaking. This Michelin Star Restaurant didn’t disappoint! It’s a 2 or 3 course menu, so naturally I picked a main and dessert.

• The Food: The short rib with Cabernet sauce is decadent, and the Valrhona Guanaja Chocolate Fondant with mint ice cream is a chocolate lover's dream.

Auberge du Soleil Desserts by the fire

Final Stop: Kollar Chocolates

Before heading out, stop here for some edible art. Their truffles take three days to make and are incredibly intricate.

• Seasonal Treats: We loved the Peppermint Bark and the Chocolate Cinnamon truffle with the snowflake pattern.

Kollar Chocolates in Napa Valley (Yountville)

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Wine Tasting in Bering Vineyards - Cave tour

4 Reasons to Visit Napa in December

1. The Christmas Spirit: Every winery decks the halls with massive wreaths and garlands.

2. The Lights: Yountville is officially the "Brightest Town in the Valley." Don't miss Bunny Foo Foo (the giant bunny statue) dressed as Rudolph at Hall Winery!

3. The Cozy Factor: Nothing beats tasting world-class Cabernet by a massive stone fireplace.

4. The Seasonal Flavors: You get access to winter-only treats like Kollar’s holiday truffles and Model Bakery’s seasonal cookies.

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Please note this is not a sponsored post and based on my own personal experience, all thoughts are my own.

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How about another sip! See all Napa related posts or check these out:

How to Make a Sugar Cookie Gingerbread House (Recipe and Template included)

Sugar Cookie Pink Gingerbread House

Tips for making the perfect Sugar Cookie Gingerbread House - Level: Pretty Easy

Want a gingerbread house that’s cute, sweet, and actually easy to build? This sugar-cookie gingerbread house is one of my favorite holiday traditions — simple to make, sturdy enough for decorating, and perfect for kids or beginners. In this guide, I’ll share the full recipe, step-by-step instructions, the exact tools I use, my best decorating tips, and troubleshooting tricks so your house comes out picture-perfect every time.

Whether you're hosting a Christmas cookie party or creating a cozy holiday moment at home, this sugar cookie gingerbread house is a festive project that everyone will love.

I wouldn’t call myself a baker, though I love to make cookies and cupcakes. My best friend, and realtor: Holly Patterson, had her annual Christmas Gingerbread House Contest and when I saw her post, I thought, “I wish I liked Gingerbread.” To go through all the trouble to make something I didn’t like seemed silly. That’s when I started the research. I can’t be the only one, someone must’ve tried this before! I found fancy houses and then I found Studio DIY. First off, I follow Kelly on Instagram and was inspired after reading her post. I went down a long rabbit hole of research and I was pretty pleased with the results! I was looking at recipes and ways to avoid going out to buy cream of tartar or molasses, things I never use. The good news, I didn’t have to go anywhere and had everything I needed in my pantry (my huge sprinkle collection finally came in handy)!

I didn’t even know where to begin, and started asking things like: how do you make the house shapes? Do you put the frosting on before or after you construct the gingerbread house? What design should I do? I then did what I do best, I made a Pinterest Gingerbread House Ideas board to collect my thoughts and inspiration. After I had my gameplan, I was ready to start!

Note: I keep calling it a Gingerbread house because you can use the template for a Sugar Cookie House or a Gingerbread House.

Looking for more sugar cookie house ideas beyond Christmas?
See our complete Sugar Cookie House Guide for easy builds, kid-friendly designs, and creative ideas for every season.

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Get your FREE Printable Gingerbread House Template - CLICK HERE

Gingerbread House Template and Plan

Checkout fun children gifts like this cute fire station!

CHeck out our toy wishlist!

Looking for great Toddler gifts? Check out what my kiddos have on their wishlist for Christmas this year! Amazon WISHLIST LINK

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Shop this Post:

Shop our favorite sugar cookie decorating tools and supplies on Amazon → My Favorite Baking Supplies List

Baking Essentials

• Stand Mixer

• Silicone Baking Mats

• Cooling Racks

• Rolling Pin

• Parchment Paper Sheets

• Cookie Cutter Set

Decorating Tools

• Piping Bags + Tips

• Edible Glitter Decorations

• Holiday Sprinkles

• Icing Scraper

• Food Coloring Gel Pack

Display & Extras

• Gingerbread House Display Board

• LED Fairylights (fun lights outside or inside!)

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Gingerbread Sugar Cookie House Recipe

Plan ahead! I did a sketch and made my own template based on other templates I saw. I was worried the sugar cookie would be a little crumbly, so I made a smaller house by taking an inch off of every measurement in this Gingerbread House blueprint template. I followed the recipe from Better Homes & Gardens but tweaked it a little:

Prep Time: 30 minutes

Chill Time: 1 hour

Bake Time: 12–15 minutes

Total Time: ~2 hours

Yield: 1 Valentine’s Day sugar cookie house

Ingredients

• 2 cups butter, softened

• 1 1/4 cup sugar

• 2 tablespoons milk

• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract (I love Vanillas of the World)

• 4 ½ cups all-purpose flour

• 3/4 cup rainbow sprinkles

• 1 – 2 cup buttercream icing (see recipe in next section below)

Use a pizza cutter for those edges!

Directions - Sugar Cookie Dough That Holds Its Shape

• Step 1 - Preheat oven to 325F.

• Step 2 - In a large mixing bowl beat butter with an electric mixer on medium to high speed for 30 seconds. Add sugar; beat until combined, scraping sides of bowl occasionally. Beat in 1 tablespoon milk and 1 teaspoon vanilla. Beat in as much of the flour as you can with the mixer. With a wooden spoon (or cute spatula), stir in sprinkles and any remaining flour.
  

• Step 3 - Divide dough in half. Cover and chill about 1 hour or until dough is easy to handle. You can refrigerate the cookie dough for up to 2 days. On large sheets of parchment paper roll out dough portions to 1/8- to 1/4-inch thick. Lightly flour the top of the dough as necessary to keep it from sticking to the rolling pin. Pro Tip: I lined my cookie sheet with parchment paper so I could cut the excess dough and throw them in the oven!
  

• Step 4 - Using my gingerbread house template, set pattern pieces on the dough; use a sharp knife (or roll a pizza slicer) to cut around each pattern piece. Remove excess dough. Remove pattern pieces; set aside.
  

• Step 5 - Transfer dough cutouts on parchment paper to a large cookie sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for 12 to 15 minutes or until edges are lightly browned. Cool 2 minutes on pan. Remove to wire racks and cool completely. Use a knife (or pizza slicer) to cut edges evenly, if necessary. Use excess to make trees, snowmen, or gingerbread men shapes.

  NOTE: Some of my pieces were pretty thick, so when I put them in the oven, I baked more on the 15-20 min side. It might have been too long because the edges were dry and would kinda crumble when I went to cut them evenly.
  

• Step 6 - Decorate as desired with buttercream icing (see recipe below), candies, and decorative sprinkles. Refrigerate for 20 mins. Assemble cookie house, using buttercream icing as glue. Let stand until firm.

Cut the pieces to the size of the template.

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The Trucks that Saved Christmas written by yours truly! The Trucks that Saved Christmas

I wrote a children’s book! My favorite thing to do is read with my boys. I love watching their faces light up as they laugh at a funny moment or learn a good life lesson along the way.

We read a lot of truck books around here — and my favorites are always the Christmas ones, of course! 🚒🎄

This year, I felt inspired to create one of our own. I’m beyond excited to share that I’ve written and published The Trucks that Saved Christmas, now available on Amazon! Also available on Barnes and Noble, Walmart, IngramSpark, and other retailers!

It’s a rhyming, heartwarming story about teamwork, friendship, and helping Santa when he needs it most — perfect for little readers who love trucks and holiday magic.

If you have a truck-loving kid (or know someone who does), I’d be so grateful if you checked it out, shared it, or added it to your holiday reading list.

🎁✨ Thank you for being so sweet and supporting this little Christmas dream of mine!

See more about The Trucks that Saved Christmas and other books on our Bookshelf page!

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Best Frosting or Icing for Gingerbread House Construction

Royal Icing vs Buttercream Icing… I read you have to use Royal Icing to make pieces stick together. I love the taste of buttercream frosting so I thought I’d give it a try and use toothpicks if it didn’t work. Guess what, I didn’t need those toothpicks! After a week… it’s still standing!

Ingredients

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened

• 3 teaspoons vanilla extract

• 4 cups confectioners' sugar, sifted if possible

• 1-2 tablespoons milk

• Divide and add food coloring

Directions

• Cream room temperature butter with a hand mixer, the paddle attachment of a stand mixer, or a wooden spoon until smooth and fluffy. Gradually beat in confectioners' sugar until fully incorporated. Beat in vanilla extract.

• Pour in milk and beat for an additional 3-4 minutes. Add food coloring, if using, and beat for thirty seconds until smooth or until desired color is reached.

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How to Make a Sugar Cookie Gingerbread House

Here’s my advice:

I used my frosting tip kit to help make it look more professional, but you can also cut a small hole in the corner of a plastic bag.

I have a huge sprinkle collection which came in handy! The ManvsSprinkles shop on Amazon has some great options! I found some good sprinkles (especially holiday themed ones) from stores like Home Goods, Ross, or TJ Maxx.

I refrigerated the decorated pieces for 20 mins after I had my design so they were a little more solid and the frosting would set a bit. This gave me time to clean up some of my mess and switch my frosting to a new bag so I could use a different tip for the icing to use as glue for the house assembly.

Pro Tip: Put the decorated pieces in the fridge for 20 mins to help the frosting set

Tips for Making a Sturdy Gingerbread House

I used soup cans to lean the pieces against while frosting the edges of my next piece. Once I had two pieces together, it was pretty solid so I was able to put all the pieces together without a side falling over.

Hold the pieces up with soup cans

How to Assemble the House Step by Step

1. Plan ahead and figure out where your house is going to live (because it is hard to move it)

2. Put parchment paper down or directly on the plate

3. Make an Icing base for the front of the house and stick it down. Lean it against the soup can.

4. Add frosting to the bottom of sides of the house and along the side that will connect to the front.

5. Carefully and gently push the side into place, do the same with the other side.

6. Line the bottom and sides of your back with frosting and connect to the house.

7. Let it set for 10 mins or so before applying the roof.

8. Smother the top of your house with frosting add one side of the roof and then connect the other. I put frosting in between the peak of the roof too.

9. I added more frosting to the corners to make it looks more smooth. Pro tip: Don’t use too much frosting on the roof or it will collapse!

And voilà:

Gingerbread House design idea - cat in the window

Back of Sugar Cookie Gingerbread house

See every angle of the Sugar Cookie Gingerbread house!

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FAQ

Why did my gingerbread house collapse?

Usually the icing wasn’t fully dried or the pieces weren’t cut evenly. Make sure edges are straight and let the icing harden for at least 10–15 minutes before adding the roof.

Can I make the dough ahead?
Yes! Refrigerate up to 2 days or freeze up to 1 week.

Does this recipe work with gingerbread instead of sugar cookie dough?
It can, but sugar cookie dough is sturdier and less likely to spread.

How do I make my sugar cookie dough hold its shape?

Chill the dough for 30 minutes before rolling, and freeze the cut pieces for 10 minutes before baking.

What icing works best for building a gingerbread house?

Royal icing or “edible glue” is strongest. Buttercream tends to softens at room temperature but I like it because it tastes better.

How long will a sugar cookie gingerbread house last?

About 5–7 days at room temp, or up to 2 weeks if you’re keeping it for decoration only.

Can I make the pieces ahead?

Yes! Bake the pieces up to 2–3 days in advance and store in an airtight container.

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Troubleshooting Your Gingerbread House

My dough cracked while rolling.
It’s too cold—knead slightly until smooth.

The pieces puffed or spread in the oven.
Freeze cut shapes before baking and avoid overmixing.

The roof keeps sliding off.
Add more icing to the top edge and let it dry longer before adding decorations.

My icing is too runny.
Add more powdered sugar 1 tablespoon at a time.

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Let me know if you attempt to make this or if you like this post in the comments below!

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More blog posts:

100+ Ice Cream Quotes and Holidays, Fun Ice Cream Jokes and Silly Ice Cream Puns!

The Best Ice Cream Quotes and Ice Cream Related Holidays, Funny Ice Cream Jokes and Silly Ice Cream Puns!

Looking for the best ice cream quotes for Instagram captions, summer signs, kids’ parties, or just a little happy inspiration? From funny ice cream sayings to cute quotes perfect for kids and photos, these ice cream quotes are sweet, simple, and guaranteed to make you smile.

If you haven’t noticed, I’m OBSESSED with ice cream! I have collected some fun ice cream facts for the social media channels I run as well as my own @thesweetestescapes account. I love celebrating all ice cream and sweet-related holidays and have even put some dates in my calendar with a recurring reminder so I never forget! What a dork, right? I do it for the blog! wink wink 😉

I’ve also collected some great ice cream quotes, along with fun ice cream jokes (some are great dad jokes!), as well as silly ice cream puns! Since I work in the entertainment industry, I HAD to include movie quotes and memorable ice cream scenes. As a bonus, I’m throwing in some great ice cream song and lyric suggestions because at this point, why not?!

Is it July (if not, pin for later)? Then it is National Ice Cream Month! Did you know that MANY scoop shops all over celebrate with FREE Ice Cream scoops or other sweet ice cream deals and offers? To find these deals, check our annual post called: Where to get FREE ICE CREAM and DEALS on National Ice Cream Day and throughout the Month

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Download our Fun Ice Cream Holidays Calendar here

Fun Ice Cream and Sweet Related Holidays (Calendar Style)

Who knew there could be so many sweet holidays?! Download our FREE printable Fun Ice Cream Calendar for the inside of your kitchen cabinet, classroom decorations, or to have in a kids playroom!

January

• National Chocolate Covered Cherry Day - January 3rd

• National Whipped Cream Day - January 5th

• National Milk Day - Jan 11th

• National Strawberry Ice Cream Day - January 15th

• National Blonde Brownie Day - January 22nd

• National Pie Day - January 23rd

• National Peanut Butter Day - January 24th 

February

• Ice Cream for Breakfast day (first Sat in Feb)

• National Dark Chocolate Day - February 1st

• National Carrot Cake Day - February 3rd

• National Chocolate Fondue Day - February 5th 

• World Nutella Day - February 5th 

• National Frozen Yogurt Day - February 6th

• Chocolate Mint Day - February 19th

March

• National Peanut Butter Lovers Day - March 1st

• National Oreo Cookie Day - Mar 6th

• National Frozen Food Day - March 6th (does ice cream count?)

• National Pi Day - Pie day! March 14th

April

• National Chocolate Mousse Day - April 3rd

• National Caramel Popcorn Day - April 7th

• National Peach Cobbler Day - April 13th

• National Pineapple Upside Down Cake Day - April 20th

• National Jelly Bean Day - April 22nd

• National Cherry Cheesecake Day - April 23rd

May

• National Apple Pie Day - May 13th

• National Chocolate Chip Day - May 15th

• National Devil’s Food Cake Day - May 19th

• National Taffy Day - May 23rd

June

• National Donut Day - first Friday in June

• National Chocolate Ice Cream Day - June 7th

• National Fudge Day - June 16th

• First Day of Summer - June 20th

July

• July is National Ice Cream Month!

• National Strawberry Sundae Day - July 7th

• National Sugar Cookie Day - July 9th

• National Free Slurpee Day - July 11th

• Cow Appreciation Day - July 14th

• National Ice Cream Day - (third Sunday in July)

• National Vanilla Ice Cream Day - July 23rd

• National Hot Fudge Sundae Day - July 25th

• National Coffee Milkshake Day - July 26th

• National Cheesecake Day - July 30th

Is it July? Then it is National Ice Cream Month! Did you know that MANY scoop shops all over celebrate with FREE Ice Cream scoops or other sweet ice cream deals and offers? To find these deals, check our annual post called: Where to get FREE ICE CREAM and DEALS on National Ice Cream Day and throughout the Month

August

• National Ice Cream Sandwich Day - August 2nd

• National Chocolate Chip Cookie Day - August 4th

• National Sponge Cake Day - August 23rd

• National Waffle Day - August 24th 

• National Banana Split Day - August 25th

September

• National Chocolate Milkshake Day - September 12th

• National Ice Cream Cone Day - September 22nd 

• National White Chocolate Day - September 22nd

• National Cherries Jubilee Day - September 24th 

• National Coffee/Starbucks Day - September 29th

October 

• International Coffee Day - October 1st 

• National Homemade Cookies Day - October 1st 

• National Cinnamon Roll Day - October 4th

• National Frappe Day - October 7th 

• National Cake Decorating Day - October 10th 

• National M&M Day - October 13th 

• National Dessert Day - October 14th

• World Food Day - October 16th 

• Sweetest Day - October 17th

• National Chocolate Cupcake Day - October 18th

• National Boston Cream Pie Day - October 23rd 

• National Chocolate Day - October 28th

• National Candy Corn Day - October 30th 

• Halloween/ National Caramel Apple Day - October 31st

November

• National Candy Day - November 4th

• National Bittersweet Chocolate with Almonds Day - November 7th (very specific! haha)

• National Vanilla Cupcake Day - November 10th 

• National Sundae Day - November 11th 

• National Cake Day - November 25th

• National French Toast Day - November 28th 

• National Lemon Cream Pie Day - November 29th 

December

• National Cookie Day - December 4th

• Gingerbread House Day - December 12th 

• National Ice Cream Day - December 13th (not sure why there are two different National Ice Cream Days but I am happy to celebrate both occasions!)

• National Cupcake Day - December 15th

• National Chocolate Covered Anything Day - December 16th 

• National Cookie Exchange Day - December 22nd 

• National Candy Cane Day - December 26th 

• National Chocolate Candy Day - December 28th

To throw the BEST Ice Cream Social you need an Ice Cream Garland and our MUST HAVE Scoop! Check out our Amazon Shopping list!

Ice Cream Word Search: Sweet Word Search with easy to read print for Teens, Adults and Seniors! Over 50 Puzzles (including solutions) and 495 words | Size 6 x 9 with 110 pages

By Press, JoKa

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Best Ice Cream Joke

Silly Ice Cream Jokes - Good for Kids!

• Q: Where does one learn to make ice cream?

• A: Sundae school!

• Q: Why did the Teddy bear say no to ice cream? 

• A: Because he was stuffed! 

• Q: Why is ice cream so bad at tennis?

• A: They have a soft serve.

• Q: What do you get from an Alaskan cow? 

• A: Ice Cream 

• Q: How did Reese eat her ice cream? 

• A: Witherspoon.

• Q: What do you get if you divide the circumference of a bowl of ice cream by its diameter? 

• A: Pi a'la mode.

• Q: Why did the ice cream truck break down? 

• A: Because of the Rocky Road.

• “Hey Ernie, would you like some ice cream?”

• “Sure Burt!”

• Q: What do you call someone else’s ice cream?

• A: You scream

• Q: What is ice cream’s favorite day of the week?

• A: Sundae!!

• Q: How do dogs like their ice cream served?

• A: In a woofle cone!

• Q: What did the ice cream cone do on the weekend?

• A: It spent the day chill-axing!

• Q: Where did the ice cream cone go to ride its mountain bike?

• A: It went to a Rocky Road!
  
  

• Q: Why was the ice cream cone a good reporter?

• A: It always got a scoop!

Want a silly Ice Cream gift for a kid? Check out the Ice Cream Playdoh set or the Leap Frog Ice Cream Cart our Amazon Shopping list!

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Ice Cream Puns

• You Got Soft Served.

• If we are what we eat, well, I am awfully sweet.

• You are the sprinkles to my ice cream.

• We are mint for each other. 

• Ice cream makes everything better.

• I want abs, but I want ice cream more.

• Go Shawty, It’s Sherbert Day.

• It’s always ice cream o-clock somewhere.

• Life’s better with a cherry on top.

• I’m A Big Softie.

• If you believe, anything is popsicle.

• Game Of Cones.

• The only man worth chasing is the ice cream man.

• Peace, love, and ice cream.

• In-Cone-Ceivable!

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Ice Cream Quote "Life is like an ice cream, enjoy it before it melts."

Fun Ice Cream Quotes (great for Instagram or Social Media captions)

• "Life is like an ice cream, enjoy it before it melts." — Unknown (my personal favorite)

• "The best time for ice cream is always." — Unknown

• “I love you more than ice cream” - Unkown (I say this to Josh!)

• “My head says go to the gym. My heart says eat ice cream!” — Unknown

• “If you were ice cream, you’d be my favorite flavor!” — Unknown

• “A balanced diet is ice cream in each hand.” — Unknown

• “Every day should start with coffee and end with ice cream.” — Unknown

• “I go running when I have to. When the ice cream truck is doing sixty.” - Wendy Liebman

• “A day without ice cream was a day wasted.” - Iain Pears 

• "I scream. You scream. We all scream for ice cream." — Unknown

• "Tomorrow we can eat broccoli, but today is for ice cream." — Malory Hobson

• "I never say no to an ice cream." — Ingrid Betancourt

• "When I'm no longer rapping, I want to open up an ice cream parlor and call myself Scoop Dogg." — Snoop Dogg

Inspirational Ice Cream Quotes

• “Don’t let your ice cream melt while you’re counting someone else’s sprinkles” - Akilah Hughes

• ”You can't buy happiness, but you can buy ice cream and that is pretty much the same thing." — Unknown

• “Life is like an ice-cream cone, you have to lick it one day at a time.” - Charles M. Schulz

• "Never ask a woman who is eating ice cream straight from the carton how she's doing." — Unknown

• "There were some problems only coffee and ice cream could fix." — Amal El-Mohtar

• "Without ice cream, there would be darkness and chaos." — Don Kardong

• "If life is a bowl of dark ice cream, small moments we enjoyed are colorful sprinkles all over it." — Unknown

• "Ice cream is cheaper than therapy." — Unknown

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Ice Cream Movie Quotes and Memorable Television Scenes

• “The only good thing about being wounded in the buttocks… is the ice cream” and "Lieutenant Dan, I got you some ice cream. Lieutenant Dan, ice cream!" — Forrest Gump

• "It was the color of someone buying you an ice cream cone for no reason at all." — Lemony Snicket

• "How'd you like some ice cream, Doc?" - The Shining (1980)

• Anna Chlumsky's Vada joins a grown-up writing class and recites an adorable ode to "vanilla, chocolate, Rocky Road, even with pie a la mode." - My Girl (1991)

• Pulp Fiction (1994) John Travolta and Uma Thurman bond over a milkshake.

• The Notebook (2004) when Rachel McAdams kisses Ryan Gosling after smashing ice cream into her lover's face.

• Wonder Woman (2017) - Gal Gadot discovers what she has been missing on her remote island!

• FRIENDS is my favorite TV show of all time, remember when Chandler (Matthew Perry) eats his feelings after his relationship went downhill.

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Famous Ice Cream Songs and Lyrics

• My milkshake brings all the boys to the yard - Kelis, “Milkshake”

• The cold never bothered me anyway." — Frozen, "Let It Go"

• “Give me a ice cream, Girl for the weekend, Kind of girl she built for any season.” - Wyclef Jean and Sean Kingston, “Ice Cream Girl”

• “Ice, ice baby” - Vanilla Ice, “Ice, Ice Baby”

• “You’ve got me chasing after you, like an ice cream truck” - Beyoncé, “Ice Cream Truck”

• “I’ll Stop The World And Melt With You.” - Jason Mraz

• “Cream on the inside, Clean on the outside Ice, ice cream, ice cream paint job” - E-40, “Ice Cream Paint Job”

• Oh my my, I'm your ice cream man, stop me when I'm passin' by” - Van Halen, “Ice Cream Man”

• “I want your ice cream, I want it, what you waiting for?” - Mika, “Ice Cream”

• “Ice cream, chillin'“ - Selena Gomez & BLACKPINK, “Ice Cream”

• “Your love Is better than ice cream” - Sarah McLachlan, “Ice Cream” [Maki]

• “A chocolate sundae on a Saturday night, What a way to make an evenin' end right” - Doris Day, “A Chocolate Sundae on a Saturday Night” [severin]

• “When I first saw you, You said I was cool Enough to be Ice cream” - Wilco, “Ice Cream” [happyclapper]

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50+ Places to Celebrate and Get FREE Ice Cream or National Ice Cream Day Deals 2025

After’s Ice Cream - Venice

Where to get FREE ICE CREAM and Ice Cream DEALS on National Ice Cream Day and throughout National Ice Cream Month - 2025

Updated: 7/20/25

When is National Ice Cream Day?

National Ice Cream Day is the third Sunday (or SUNDAE) of July, making National Ice Cream Day 2025 on July 20th! Every year, locations all over the US celebrate with free ice cream or sweet discounted deals!

Where can I find ice cream deals on National Ice Cream Day?

After some thorough research, reaching out to my favorite ice cream places and stalking their Instagrams, here's the scoop on where to find your sweet treat! See our list of 50+ places below to find the best ice cream deals on national ice cream day.There are also some great events to attend.

Throw an Ice Cream Social

See my Amazon list for my favorite Ice Cream Gear as well as everything you need to throw an Ice Cream Social. Don’t miss my favorite Ice Cream Scooper… You’ll order one as soon as you see it, I swear!

Check back here throughout the month for additional updates. If you see blank spaces below, don’t worry, we’ll update them as your favorite scoop shop confirms their deals!

Angelinos, check out my favorite ice cream locations in LA ranked with a map: BEST ICE CREAM SCOOP SHOPS IN LA

Also don’t miss: Where to find free treats on your birthday

Try our favorite Ice Cream Word Search!

Get your Ice Cream Word Search for your next flight or just hanging around the house while eating ice cream!

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FREE ICE CREAM AND ICE CREAM DEALS AT YOUR FAVORITE SCOOP SHOP ON NATIONAL ICE CREAM DAY 2025

Check out all the offers, contests, and sweet rewards clubs to join to get free ice cream! Remember to keep checking back, we will be updating all month long!

**If you live in Southern California - there is a Los Angeles specific section after this one! Scroll down!

7-Eleven - Free Slurpee

The Scoop: Free Slurpee in any 7-eleven shop

When: 7-11

Wanderlust Creamery

16 Handles - Free Soft-serve!

On National Ice Cream Day, customers can get a free soft-serve treat (up to $5) when they download the 16 Handles app and visit a participating location

When: Sunday, July 20

Baskin-Robbins - $5 off

The Scoop: Baskin-Robbins Rewards members can get $5 off orders of $20 or more through 3rd party delivery.

When: July 20–26

BJ's Restaurant and Brewhouse - Free Pizookie

The Scoop: Get a free Pizookie (a deep-dish-inspired cookie) when you sign up for the restaurant's Premier Rewards Plus program any day of the year! PLUS you get another one on your birthday!

Blue Ribbon - Giveaway

The Scoop: Here's your chance to make it National Ice Cream Month every month when you enter their giveaway for a chance to win a $25 gift card

Breyers - BOGO

The Scoop: Find BOGO free and bundled deals on Breyers ice cream at Publix and Kroger the week of July 30, plus get digital discounts in select Albertsons stores as low as $2.97.

Bubbies Ice Cream - BOGO

The Scoop: This year, Bubbies Ice Cream and Whole Foods are kicking off National Ice Cream Month by offering a buy-one-get-one promotion on all Bubbies Ice Cream products

When: July 2 through July 15

Burger King - Free Soft Serve

The Scoop: Royal Perks members can enjoy a free soft serve with a purchase of $1 or more

When: Sunday, July 20

Carvel - Free Topping and $5 reward

The Scoop: Add Mother's® Chocolatey Dynamite Dinosaurs™ Cookies on any scooped ice cream or soft serve for FREE? You read that right! July 4th-6th - top your ice cream with these delicious chocolatey dinosaur cookies, but only while supplies last!

When: Offer available in shop only 7/4 - 7/6/25

Summer offer: Celebrate summer with a sweet treat, and for a limited time, get a $5 reward when you spend $25 in gift cards

Cold Stone Creamery - Double Points - FREE Ice Cream for a Year Giveaway!

The Scoop:  Earn Double Points when you spend $25 or more in-store or online anytime between July 1, 2025 - July 13, 2025.

Sign up for the My Cold Stone Club Rewards and get a “buy one, get one free creation” coupon loaded to your account right away. You will also receive a BOGO free Creation dessert on your birthday. Receive $5 off purchases with every 50 accumulated points.

Extra Scoop: AMAZING Giveaways!

Five Grand Prizes
🍦Cold Stone® Ice Cream for a year*!
🍦Cold Stone® University Sweatshirt
💙 OREO® Flavored Lip Balms Variety Pack
💙 OREO® Branded Black Nike Hat
💙 OREO® 26oz Stainless Steel Water Bottle

Ten Runner-Up Prizes
🍦Cold Stone® $25 Gift Card
🍦Cold Stone® Hat
🍦Cold Stone® Stickers

Enter here: https://www.instagram.com/p/DMVdJKPOG0U/?hl=en

Creamistry - 10% off

The Scoop: Join their mailing list to receive the latest special promotions, offers, and updates! All new members will receive an exclusive offer for 10% off their next order! Sign Up

Dairy Queen - Free Dilly Bar

The Scoop: Dairy Queen’s National Ice Cream Day deal includes offering DQ Rewards members a free Dilly Bar with any online or in-app purchase of a $1 or more!

When: July 14 - 20

Dippin Dots - Free Mini Cups

The Scoop: Dippin Dots is giving away free mini cups of Dippin' Dots (during a 2-hour window) on National Ice Cream Day. Plus, the first 100 guests at each participating location will receive a collectible cup

When: July 20

Dunkin’ Donuts - Discount and Double Points

The Scoop: Rewards members can celebrate National Ice Cream Day (July 20) with $3 medium Refreshers and 3x points on Dunkin' frozen beverages.

When: July 20

RELATED POST: See my Amazon list for my favorite Ice Cream Gear as well as everything you need to throw an Ice Cream Social. Don’t miss my favorite Ice Cream Scooper… You’ll order one as soon as you see it, I swear!

eCreamery Ice Cream - $15 off

The Scoop: Offer good for $15 off any 4+ pint ice cream gift.  Use discount code SWEET18 at checkout.  

When: Valid through June 27, 2025 at 11:59 pm CST. Limit of 3 orders per customer.  Online purchases only.

Another Scoop: 20% off any order containing a 4+ pint ice cream gift.  Use discount code SUMMER25 at checkout. 

When: 7/14 - 7/20/25 at 11:59 pm CS

Friendly’s - Free Cone!

The Scoop: Friendly's is celebrating National Ice Cream Day, which is also happens to be their 90th birthday! They are offering Fan Club Rewards members a free cone or dish in-store, online or for carryout. If you're not a rewards member you can join for free and get this deal. Non-members can still celebrate with $0.90 scoops (in-store and carryout only).

When: July 18-20

Ghirardelli Chocolate Company - Discounted Sundae

The Scoop: Ghirardelli Chocolate Company is celebrating National Hot Fudge Sundae Day on Friday, July 25, with a special one-day-only deal. Participating Ghirardelli Chocolate & Ice Cream Shops will offer a Mini World Famous Hot Fudge Sundae for just $7.25. The offer excludes locations at Disney California Adventure and Oracle Park.

When: Friday, July 25

Gopuff - deals!

Here's a breakdown of the current Gopuff ice cream deals:

• Buy 2 for $10: This deal includes select flavors of Ben & Jerry's and Talenti pints. 

• Buy 2, Get 1 Free: This offer applies to all Ben & Jerry's pints. 

• 25% off Select Ice Cream: A discount on a variety of ice cream options. 

• My/Mochi Mochi Ice Cream Sandwiches: These are exclusively available for Gopuff FAM members in select markets (initially) and include Strawberry Mochi Ice Cream & Sugar Cookie and Vanilla Mochi Ice Cream & Chocolate Chip Cookie. 

• National Ice Cream Day (July 20th): Bay Area customers can get a free pint of Humphry Slocombe's Peanut Butter Fudge Ripple Ice Cream with any order. 

Graeter’s - Free Cones!

The Scoop: In celebration of National Ice Cream Day, Graeter’s is offering its Sweet Rewards Loyalty Program Member $1.55 single-dip sugar cones.

When: Friday, July 18, through Sunday, July 20

Another Scoop: Graeter’s is also marking National Ice Cream Month through July with its annual Coloring Contest: Children who submit a completed coloring sheet will get a free scoop of ice cream.

Halo Top: Got An Ice Cream-Inspired Name?

Halo Top is celebrating National Ice Cream Day with one of the most unique promos we’ve seen. If your first, middle, or last name matches a classic ice cream brand like Ben, Jerry, Baskin, or even Talenti, you could score a free pint of Halo Top. Visit HaloTop.com/IceCreamDay to see if your name qualifies and claim your reward! Halo Top is only giving away 8,000 pints in honor of its eight new mix-in flavors so definitely act fast!

When: July 14 to July 21

Handel’s Homemade Ice Cream - Free Ice Cream

To commemorate its 80th anniversary and National Ice Cream Day, Handel’s is giving guests 80 and older a free small cone or dish at participating locations.

When: July 20

Humphrey Slocombe - Giveaway and Buy Two Pints Get One Free

The Scoop: On July 20th, at all our Bay Area Scoop Shops, customers can buy two pints and get one free! This offer applies to both pre-packed and hand-packed pint flavors available in our dip case.

Another Scoop: So excited to share that Humphry Slocombe Ice Cream has been featured as one of @goldbelly's All-Star Artisan honorees for the first-ever National Restaurant Week from July 1-7! The best part is they are giving $50 with EVERY Goldbelly purchase (unlimited times) this week to celebrate! Order Humphry Slocombe Ice Cream on @goldbelly now and get our Best Seller Pint Box shipped right to your door!

When: July 1-7

Extra Scoop: Celebrate National Ice Cream Month with up to 27% off at Goldbelly and FREE nationwide shipping.

When: Hurry, offer ends July 16th!

Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams - Free Fudge Sauce, Free Delivery, and Giveaway

The Scoop: Splendid Rewards members: don’t forget our ice cream challenge! Visit a scoop shop (or purchase at jenis.com or via the Jeni’s app) three times between now and 7/6. Your prize: a special mystery pint containing a reward of up to $100! 

Order local delivery via the Jeni’s app (delivery is FREE on orders of four or more pints!).

Summer Flavors:

• Popcorn Brittle - Sun-popped popcorn ice cream with a corn-toffee crunch.

• Strawberry Pretzel Pie - Pretzel streusel and strawberry sauce in cream cheese ice cream.

• Watermelon Taffy - Like an uber creamy, tart candied watermelon.

Another Scoop: Jeni's Splendid Ice Creams is offering free Sundae Fudge Sauce to any order for free on National Ice Cream Day

When: July 20

Kilwins - Sweepstakes

The Scoop: Enter for the chance to win free ice cream for a year by tagging a friend in the comments on the sweepstakes Instagram post and including the hashtag #Kilwins_Sweepstakes. The lucky winner will receive a Kilwins e-gift card valued at approximately $600.

When: From July 20-31

Klondike Bar - Digital Coupons

For National Ice Cream Month, throughout July, Klondike is making digital coupons for its treats live across Fetch, iBotta and Walmart Cash.

Marble Slab Creamery - Free Scoop!

The Scoop: On National Ice Cream Day, Marble Slab Creamery is offering loyalty members a free small cup of ice cream, no strings attached!

When: July 20

McDonald's

The Scoop: Get the HERSHEY’S S’mores McFlurry with HERSHEY’S Milk Chocolate, crunchy graham crackers and soft marshmallows

When: thru 8/11

Milk Bar

The Scoop: new Lemon Meringue Pie Soft Serve available!

 My/Mochi - Great giveaways!

The Scoop: Every Sunday in July, which is officially National Ice Cream month, My/Mochi is giving away “summer chill packs” with ice cream coupons and other fun merch. On National Ice Cream Day, July 20, fans have a chance to scoop up a year’s supply of its premium ice cream when they follow My/Mochi on Instagram, like a post, comment with summer plans, and tag a friend.

Petco - Free pup cups!

The Scoop: Even pets can get in on the National Ice Cream Day deal action, with free pup cups of ice cream in-store, courtesy of participating brands.

When: July 20

Popsicle - BOGO

The Popsicle ice pops brand is offering customers a chance to celebrate National Ice Cream Month with buy-one-get-one-free offers at Target, Publix and Kroger

When: All July long

Salt and Straw - Free Scoop!

The Scoop: Sign up for their new loyalty program and get a free waffle cone upgrade with your first online order. On the big day, July 20, every order (yes, you heard right) comes with a digital scratch-off prize that could win you free scoops, merch, or even an ice cream-making sesh with founder Tyler Malek. Basically, it’s the kind of over-the-top, sprinkle-covered celebration that makes you remember why ice cream deserves its own holiday in the first place. 

When: July 14-20

Smitten Ice Cream

Smitten Ice Cream - Free Ice Cream

The Scoop: Heads up! You must RSVP and show your ticket to enjoy your free scoop. Limited to 100 guests—1 ticket = 1 scoop. No purchase needed. Extra scoops or toppings sold separately. Available only at our San Francisco shop (904 Valencia St) on July 10 starting at 4pm until 100 scoops have been claimed!

When: July 10 4-6pm

Steak 'N Shake - 1/2 Price

The Scoop: 1/2 price shakes at Happy hour weekdays 2-5p at participating restaurants

Rewards Club: Download the Steak 'n Shake App and become a member of its loyalty program to get a free Specialty Milkshake with your first purchase as a club member. Sign-up details here. 

Talenti - BOGO

The Scoop: Target Circle will offer a BOGO 50% off deal the week of National Ice Cream Day only, from July 14 through 20.

During the same week, Wakefern shoppers can enjoy a promotional price of two for $9 from the gourmet frozen treat brand. After that, through the end of July, Talenti will be two for $10.

Additional deals will be available for shoppers on iBotta through mid-August.

TCBY

The Scoop: Sign up for TCBY‘s TCBY Insider program and get special, exclusive deals for National Ice Cream Day and beyond.

Van Leeuwen Kraft Macaroni and cheese ice cream

Van Leeuwen - Discount Scoops and Giveaways

The Scoop: ⁣⁣Van Leeuwen ice cream is celebrating National Ice Cream Day and the 10th anniversary of its popular Honeycomb flavor by offering $3 scoops of Honeycomb at all shops nationwide from 12 noon to 2 p.m. ET on July 20. Additionally, one ice cream fan will win a 3-gallon tub of Honeycomb ice cream, the Lovesac x Van Leeuwen Honeycomb CitySac, and a newly launched Material ice cream scooper. For those in New York, Van Leeuwen Tribeca will offer the first 100 guests a scratch-off ticket offering the chance to win prizes.

This is your summer flavor itinerary:

• Strawberry Yuzu Cheesecake

• Sweet Corn & Blueberry Jam

• Mango Sorbet

New locations opening soon! Check their social media channels for more info!

• City Point, Brooklyn (NY) - July 10

• Ponce City Market, Atlanta (GA)

• Hoboken (NJ)

• Northshore Mall (MA)

• Brooklyn Heights, Brooklyn (NY)

Wendy’s - Free Frosty

The Scoop: If you’re a member of Wendy’s rewards program and use their app, you can score a free small Frosty-cino or small coffee with any purchase.

Whole Foods/Instacart

The Scoop: Get 50% off with Prime Ice Cream and Frozen Desserts or 44% off without Prime

When: July 2-16

Yogurtland - Double Points

The Scoop: Earn double points in store or online!

When: July 20

Another Scoop: Enter to win a Princess cruise for four people! Hope they have all you can eat ice cream aboard! I think I’ll take my chances!

When: Through July 13

Your Pie Pizza - FREE Scoop!

The Scoop: Free Gelato scoop today!

When: July 20

See my Amazon list for my favorite Ice Cream Gear as well as everything you need to throw an Ice Cream Social.

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Where to Get Free Ice Cream on National Ice Cream Day in LA

Live in Los Angeles? Me too! Here are some awesome places to get free ice cream in Los Angeles on National Ice Cream Day. If you don’t live in Southern California, go to the next section!

Also, see my favorite ice cream locations in LA ranked with a map: BEST ICE CREAM IN LA

Bruster’s Christmas in July Celebration

Bruster’s Real Ice Cream - Rancho Cucamunga

My favorite things have collided!!! They have Christmas in July right now with Santa and a car show on 7/11. The Christmas flavors like Gingerbread Man, Eggnog, Peppermint Oreo are here through the 15th.

They will also offer fresh peach the 18-20th! Dubai chocolate just hit as well as Brookie and Peanut Butter made with Nutter Butters!

The Scoop: Loyalty members get double points

When: National Ice Cream Weekend July 18-20th

Carmela Ice Cream Co

Capri Gelato and Coffee

The Scoop: New flavor of the week: Pomegranate Mojito Sorbetto 🍹✨
It’s refreshing, tangy, and just the right amount of minty—like summer in a scoop! Come by and try this bold, bright flavor before it’s gone.

Fosselman’s Ice Cream

The Scoop: TOASTED MARSHMALLOW is back for limited time!! Get it before it’s gone!! 🔥🤍

Frozen Fruit Co

The Scoop: Raspberry Truffle Plant-Based "ice cream" - made from a creamy raspberry base of coconut cream, raspberry, and organic blue agave with swirls of our signature dark chocolate (organic coconut oil, cocoa, and date) and an additional oomph of raspberry powder.

When: Available until this Friday

McConnell’s Fine Ice Creams

The Scoop: 15% off site wide on National Ice Cream Day!

Use code SMS5 for $5 off your first order

Try their new See’s Candies collaboration! We found some pints at Whole Foods but there are new flavors online and at the following scoop shops:

• Santa Barbara - both State Street locations

• Downtown Los Angeles

• Studio City

• Third Street Promenade

• San Luis Obispo

• San Juan Capistrano

• Carlsbad

Rori's Artisanal Creamery - Extra Scoop!

The Scoop: Buy a single scoop, and they'll make it a double scoop!

When: Sunday, July 20

Another Scoop: Celebrate July 4th all month long with Star-Spangled Banner ice cream. This is a creamy white chocolate ice cream with stripes of housemade strawberry and blueberry jam. And while supplies last all month long, enjoy seasonal sprinkles and a mini flag in your scoop!

All locations will be open on July 4th for all of your ice cream needs:

• Montecito: 12 - 7p.m.

• Santa Barbara: 12 - 7p.m.

• Santa Monica: 12 - 7p.m.

• Carpinteria: 11a.m. - 7p.m.

• Camarillo: 12 - 5p.m.

• Arroyo Grande: 12 - 7p.m.

• Ventura: 12 - 7p.m.

P.S. Head over to their Instagram to find out how you can enter to win a $100 Rori's gift card, just for posting a photo of your Star-Spangled Banner ice cream!

SWEET ROSE CREAMERY

The Scoop: Join their Loyalty Program, for every $1 you spend at our Brentwood Country Mart shop, you earn 10 points, which goes towards a free pint of your choice!

Daily Scoop Club 2025: One Scoop a Day, All Year Long: Stop by our Brentwood Country Mart shop any day in 2025 for a Single Scoop of ice cream on us! Simply check in with your Blackbird account using your cell phone— choosing a flavor will be the hardest part!

• Exclusive Monthly Perks: Watch your inbox for details on exciting monthly add-ons! Right now, we are offering Free Sundaes to all Daily Scoop Club members Mondays through Wednesdays!

Membership Purchases for the 2025 Daily Scoop Club membership are closed. If you would like to purchase a membership as a gift, please contact info@sweetrosecreamery.com.

Locations: Brentwood, Hollywood, Santa Monica, Venice

Wanderlust Creamery

Wanderlust Creamery - BOGO

The Scoop: “Corn Latte” ice cream and ALL Summer seasonal flavors are BOGO (Double scoop for the price of a Single) this Sunday at all locations for National Ice Cream Day

When: Sunday, July 20

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NATIONAL ICE CREAM DAY EVENTS

Sprinkle Pool - Museum of Ice Cream Los Angeles

MUSEUM OF ICE CREAM 

Locations: Austin, Boston, Chicago, Las Vegas, Miami, Singapore & New York

How about a visit to the Museum of Ice Cream? Make sure you buy tickets in advance! Unlimited ice cream, over 14 interactive playscapes, exclusive treats, and a sprinkle pool - what could be better?!

A NEW LOCATION is opening soon in Los Angeles! See our post from the last time MOIC was in LA!

ICE CREAM ALLEY at Smorgasburg LA

Ice Cream Alley features all of LA's best ice cream and sweet treat purveyors in one place, open every single Sunday, all through Labor Day!

Find a rotating crew of special popup vendors like:

• Jeni's Splendid Ice Creams

• Sweet Rose Creamery

• McConnell's Fine Ice Creams

• Blast Ice Cream

• Afters Ice Cream

• Madame Shugah (all vegan)

• And more!

Plus Smorgasburg LA regulars:

• Wanderlust Creamery

• Donut Friend (all vegan)

• Yellow Business - HK Egg Waffle

• Churro Boss

• Sweet n' Hollow

• Bumblecrumpets
  
  When: Sundays July 15 - September 2, 10am - 4pm

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Ice Cream Made Here Sign at Ginger’s Divine Ice Cream

ICE CREAM DELIVERY ON NATIONAL ICE CREAM DAY

Don't want to go anywhere? Don't fret, you can get ice cream delivered to your front door!

DoorDash, Uber Eats, Caviar, and Postmates will also deliver sweet ice cream from places like Carmela Ice Cream Co or Sweet Rose Creamery!

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MAKE YOUR OWN ICE CREAM OR THROW AN ICE CREAM SOCIAL

I love making my own ice cream! Check out the best ice cream makers and starter kits at Williams Sonoma!

Every good scoop from home deserves a good scooper!

To throw the BEST Ice Cream Social you need an Ice Cream Garland and our MUST HAVE Scoop! Check out our Amazon Shopping list!

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Afters Ice Cream

Brief History of National Ice Cream Day

In 1984, President Ronald Reagan declared the third week of July to be National Ice Cream Day along with July known as National Ice Cream Month by signing proclamation 5219. In this proclamation, the president called ice cream the perfect dessert and snack food and stated that over 90 percent of Americans enjoy it on a regular basis. He also stated that Americans should observe this day with activities and celebrations. So let's party, it's basically the law. 

Now, let's EAT! 

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****All offers may subject to change. Offers were researched by contacting shops directly or taken from their websites/social media.

Please share in the comments below where you are celebrating! See you for some #sundayfunday or as I like to call it, #sudaefundae 

This post was made from my love for ice cream and National Ice Cream Day! Please help me by sharing with your friends on social media!

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MORE ICE CREAM POSTS? Yes PLEASE!!!

Toddler Friendly Guide and Itinerary for Spring and Summer in Lake Tahoe

Pine trees, Lake Tahoe views from high above in Heavenly gondola ski lift

From Playgrounds to Pine Trees: Lake Tahoe Adventures for Tiny Feet

There were many summers that I went with my family to Lake Tahoe growing up and I couldn’t wait to take my little family! I did have to do some research as I was curious about what activities we could do with two toddlers!

Planning a Lake Tahoe family vacation with toddlers can seem daunting, but it's easier than you think! As a parent who's enjoyed countless Tahoe trips since childhood, I’ve compiled the ultimate toddler-friendly guide to Lake Tahoe, packed with things to do with toddlers in South Lake Tahoe and beyond. Discover the best parks for kids in Lake Tahoe, like the scenic Thomas F. Regan Memorial City Beach Park or the playground paradise of Kahle Park. Looking for easy hikes with toddlers in Lake Tahoe?

Glen Alpine Falls offers a stunning waterfall view with minimal effort, perfect for little legs. Don't miss out on enjoying a family picnic at Lake Tahoe at spots like Kiva Beach or Pope Beach. For North Lake Tahoe activities, the newly accessible Tahoe East Shore Trail (often called the 'Impossible Trail') is a paved, stroller-friendly wonder. Explore the charming town of Truckee, home to the fantastic KidZone Museum, a top pick for toddler fun near Lake Tahoe. When it comes to where to stay in South Lake Tahoe with toddlers, options range from VRBO cabin rentals to family-friendly hotels like the Holiday Inn Express. And for dining, I'll share toddler-friendly restaurants in Lake Tahoe like Riva Grill on the Lake and Edgewood's Brooks' Bar and Deck, where you can savor delicious meals with stunning views. Get ready for an unforgettable Lake Tahoe adventure with small children!

Shop our Amazon list for our favorite things to pack with toddlers!

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Best toddler-friendly activities and things to do in South Lake Tahoe

heavenly Gondolas from the Heavenly Village Center

Heavenly Gondolas

Location: 4080 Lake Tahoe Blvd, South Lake Tahoe, CA 96150

Heavenly Village Giant Chair made of Skiis

This was a great idea… kids under 5 ride free (adults are currently $124) and it’s unlimited rides for the day. It sounded perfect, however, they were closed the duration we were there and re-opening for summer just before Memorial Day.

Note: they aren’t open every day, so it’s a great idea but just check the website to make sure they are open!

All else fails, the shopping center around the Gondola base is fantastic. Tons of restaurants and stores to explore and some grassy areas to run around. In summer months, there is a mini golf course and a trampoline adventure in the center of the plaza.

Making it a road trip? See our Toddler Road Trip Essentials. You won’t want to miss our favorite toys for the car and hotel room!

Thomas F. Regan Memorial City Beach Park

Parks and Recreation

There are tons of parks in Lake Tahoe and we found some awesome playgrounds!

Thomas F. Regan Memorial City Beach Park

Location: 3199 Sacramento Ave, South Lake Tahoe, CA 96150

Located right on the water with perfect lake views, parking lot, and restrooms! The playground was small but there were a few slides and swings as well as a beach volleyball court and lots of grass to run around!

Kahle Park

Location: 236 Kingsbury Grade Rd, Stateline, NV 89449

Nestled higher up in the mountains, there’s a really fun park with partial lake views. There’s a playground for 2-5-year-olds and one for 5-12-year-olds. Our kids played on both playgrounds.

Glen Alpine Falls at Fallen Leaf Lake

See a Waterfall (without much of a hike!)

My toddlers are over 30 pounds and I didn’t really want to hike with them as it would be fun for 5 minutes and then I’d be required to carry one for the rest of the duration. Luckily, Glen Alpine Falls is located just off of Fallen Leaf Lake and literally can be seen from the road! We went midweek around 11a and it wasn’t very crowded with front-row parking!

There’s a split rock with a little deck that my littles liked to climb on. Afterward, we drove down to the Kiva picnic area (follow the Tallac signs) and had lunch on a picnic table steps away from the lake. It was about a 5-minute walk to those tables by the lake but there were also some closer to the parking lot with bathrooms! The path was flat so we loaded up our wagon and were able to only carry one kid who didn’t want to ride in the wagon! Win! My only complaint is that the tables are wood and old so I would bring towels to sit on next time. Luckily no splinters incidents on this adventure!

Shop our Amazon list for our favorite things to pack!

Kiva Beach Picnic

Go for a Picnic!

Why is a picnic at Lake Tahoe so much fun? For starters, it's a chance to relish the crystal-clear waters and graze on delicious food with breathtaking mountain views as your backdrop. You get to enjoy the glorious Lake Tahoe sunshine (which is usually a breeze in June!), the crisp mountain air, and maybe even some antsy entertainment if a few uninvited guests try to join your feast, though the views will surely distract you. It’s a delightful escape from the usual routine, and let's be honest, everything just tastes better when you're eating on a blanket with the magnificent Big Blue just a stone's throw away. Plus, there's always the excitement of seeing what surprises are in the basket – it's truly a sand-witch of an adventure, especially when you're surrounded by one of nature's most stunning masterpieces!

There are so many places to picnic around the lake:

• Kiva Beach

• Emerald Bay State Beach

• Kings Beach

• Zephyr Cove Park

• Pope Beach

Best things to do in North Lake Tahoe

Impossible trail - Tahoe East Shore Trail

Location: Tahoe East Shore Trail, 1924 Tahoe Blvd, Incline Village, NV 89451

It’s called the Impossible Trail by the locals because it took forever to build but if you look it up on google maps, it’s call the Tahoe East Shore Trail!

The "Impossible Trail" in Lake Tahoe, more formally known as the Tahoe East Shore Trail, earned its dramatic moniker because constructing a path along this rugged and incredibly scenic stretch of shoreline was once considered an almost insurmountable feat. For decades, accessing the breathtaking beaches and coves along Lake Tahoe's East Shore was challenging and often dangerous, with vehicles and pedestrians sharing a narrow, winding highway. The idea of building a safe, dedicated pathway seemed "impossible" given the complex terrain, environmental concerns, and the need for collaboration among numerous agencies. However, through extensive planning, funding, and engineering, this dream became a reality, transforming the "Impossible Trail" into "America's Most Beautiful Bikeway."

This paved, 3-mile trail is absolutely wonderful for toddlers and families. Its smooth, wide surface makes it perfect for strollers, trikes, and little wobbly walkers, eliminating concerns about uneven terrain or roots. The trail hugs the shoreline, offering continuous, stunning lake views that will captivate even the youngest adventurers. With numerous access points to secluded beaches and picnic spots, families can easily hop off the trail for a splash in the crystal-clear water, a snack break, or simply to marvel at the massive granite boulders. The lack of significant inclines means little legs won't get too tired, ensuring a fun, accessible, and truly memorable outdoor experience for everyone, making it far from "impossible" to enjoy with your tiny explorers!

Truckee

Location: KidZone Museum, 11711 Donner Pass Rd, Truckee, CA 96161

While the glittering waters of Lake Tahoe are the main draw, the charming mountain town of Truckee, located about an hour's drive (approximately 44-45 miles) north of South Lake Tahoe, offers a fantastic change of pace and a wealth of toddler-friendly activities. Truckee's historic downtown is a delight to explore with its old-west charm, train tracks (a huge hit with train-loving tots!), and unique shops. For active little ones, the KidZone Museum is a must-visit, providing interactive, hands-on exhibits designed specifically for young children, offering hours of engaging play. You can also head to Donner Lake (just a short drive from downtown Truckee) for a different lakeside experience with sandy beaches and calm waters perfect for splashing and building sandcastles. Many of the larger resorts in the Truckee/Northstar area also offer fantastic summer activities for families, including mini-golf, outdoor play areas, and even gentle scenic gondola rides that provide stunning views without strenuous hiking. Truckee truly rounds out a Lake Tahoe adventure by offering a blend of history, indoor fun, and easily accessible outdoor spaces for the little ones.

Where to Stay with Toddlers in South Lake Tahoe

There are a lot of adorable cabin rentals that you can book through Booking.com - just turn on the search option for “Vacation Homes”.

Caesars Republic

Location: 18 Hwy 50, Stateline, NV 89449

We have stayed at Harvey’s a few times which is now called Caesars Republic and currently under major renovation.

However, the rooms are spacious with lots of lake view options! There is a casino which isn’t great for kids, but good if you want to take turns going down to gamble or go to a bar when the children are sleeping!

There’s an outdoor pool, spa, and fitness center too. Though I’ve never seen the fitness center, good for you if you make it!

The restaurants are great but not exactly kid friendly! Here’s what you need to know:

Hell’s Kitchen by Gordon Ramsey does not have a dedicated kids' menu, but they are accommodating to families and can offer options for children. Yelp users report that servers can usually suggest items from the main menu or prepare something simple like chicken tenders or mac and cheese. 

Wolf by Vanderpump doesn’t have a kids menu either and is 21+ after 8p.

My favorite restaurant is the Sage Room which is located on the 19th floor with a perfect view of the lake! Try and get a reservation ahead of time around sunset. Again, they don’t have a kids menu but check ahead of time to see if there is something your tot might be into.

Holiday Inn Express Exterior

Budget friendly option - Holiday Inn Express Lake Tahoe

Location: 3961 Lake Tahoe Blvd, South Lake Tahoe, CA 96150

We had a free night through our IHG credit card that was expiring and we decided to give Holiday Inn Express a try. For a 3-star hotel, it was great. We got the double queen room with an extra floor space option, which was perfect for our two tots to run around or play with the knock-off magnatile set (Picasso Magnet Mini tile travel set). Our stay included free breakfast and was walkable to the Heavenly shops and restaurants as well as the state-line casinos!

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Where to Dine with Toddlers in Lake Tahoe

Chances are your toddler sits for 5-10 minutes and then is bored. No matter how many toys, coloring books, or crayons I pack, all I want is someone to serve me a nice meal to enjoy. Here are a few spots that we had good luck with:

Riva Grill views

Riva Grill on the Lake

900 Ski Run Blvd, South Lake Tahoe, CA 96150

I love this place! It’s right on the water and there is plenty to see if you’re sitting inside or outside! The tables outside on the patio were large so we could sprawl out with coloring books and food. There’s even a walkway just off to the side if you have to take a breather or wait for Dad to pay the check. Get a Woody drink!

Edgewood's Brooks Bar and Deck on the patio overlooking a golf course and Lake Tahoe

Edgewood’s Brook’s Bar and Deck

180 Lake Pkwy, Stateline, NV 89449

For a memorable dining experience that caters to both adults and toddlers, consider Edgewood Tahoe's Brooks' Bar and Deck. While Edgewood is known for its upscale golf course and lodge, Brooks' Bar and Deck strikes a perfect balance, offering a refined yet comfortable atmosphere that warmly welcomes families. Situated right off the picturesque 18th hole, the expansive deck boasts unparalleled views of Lake Tahoe and the surrounding Sierras – a constantly changing panorama that can keep even the most restless toddler entertained. Their "gastropub" menu features elevated comfort food, with options that are often appealing to a wider range of palates, and the casual-yet-classy ambiance means you won't feel out of place with a high chair and a few kid-friendly snacks. It's a wonderful spot to enjoy a delicious meal while soaking in the iconic Lake Tahoe scenery, creating a special memory for everyone in the family.

California Burger Co.

California Burger Co.

1001 Heavenly Village Way #2b, South Lake Tahoe, CA 96150

Located in Heavenly Village, this outdoor spot was great for toddlers. There was enough fake grass, a fire pit to run trucks over (when the fire was off and not hot), and live music. They also had frozen lemonade so the kids had a drink while Mommy and Daddy also had a fun drink. Wink, wink! The food was good - burgers were great but they didn’t have a kid’s burger, luckily there were chicken tenders and a grilled cheese to choose from.

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Itinerary for 4 days in Lake Tahoe during Spring or Summer

Day 1

5p - Arrive in Reno

5:30p - Pick up rental car

6:30p - Grab Chick-fil-a by airport and drive to Tahoe (about an hour)

7:30p - Check into hotel

8p - Bedtime

Day 2

5:45a wake-up call from excited 1.5 year old, 3.5 year old slept longer

6a walk around the neighborhood grab breakfast - we had free breakfast with our room but there are lots of coffee shops in the area if you need a destination. We also made muffins and brought them with us.

8a - eat breakfast together as a family - Social House was a good recommendation

10a - head to the park on the lake

12p - lunch at Riva Grill

1:30p - naptime

3p - drive over to Kahle Park

5p - drop car off, walk to California Burger Co. outdoor seating, live music

6:30p - walk back to hotel, get ready for bed

7:15p - bedtime

Day 3

6:15a Wake-up call from a happy toddler

7a - Free breakfast at the hotel restaurant

8a - walk over to the shopping center to entertain toddler

10a - 35 min Drive to the waterfall (Glen Alpine Falls)

10:40a - Arrive and explore

11:45a - drive to Kiva picnic area

12:05p - arrive Kiva picnic area, walk down, eat lunch

12:40p - drive back to hotel

1:15p - naptime

3:30p - walk over to Heavenly shopping center - shops, restaurants, mini golf (during summer)

5:45p - dinner

6:30p - walk back to room, get ready for bed

7:30p - bedtime

Day 4

6:20a Wake-up call from toddler

7a - Breakfast at Heaven’s Little Cafe (eat it there or take it to go!)

8a - drive to North Shore’s Tahoe East trail aka Impossible trail

8:40a - Hike Tahoe East trail aka Impossible trail

11:30a - Lunch at Inclined Burgers and Brews - kids menu includes hamburger, cheeseburger, grilled cheese and chicken strips

12:30p - take a drive for a car nap

3p - Arrive at KidZone in Truckee - 11711 Donner Pass Rd, Truckee, CA 96161

5p - Drive back towards the south shore

6p - Dinner at Edgewood’s Brook’s Bar and Deck and enjoy the sunset

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What to pack for Toddlers?!

Shop our Amazon list for our favorite things to pack!

What was in our suitcase? Pretty much everything! Being there mid-May, there was still snow on the mountains so it was mid 60’s during the day but 30’s at night!

For a family of 4 (including 2 toddlers), we packed:

• 3 duffles- we love the Eddie Bauer duffle that compacts into a small bag

  • Duffle #1 - toddlers’ clothes, diapers, shoes, toys, etc.

  • Duffle #2 - My clothes and hub’s clothes

  • Duffle #3 - toddler bumper for bed, you can use pillows but we had free bags we could check. Sometimes we bring the race car blow-up bed

• 2 car seats - infant and toddler

• 2 personal bags (however, mine was toy overflow) - Picasso Magnet Mini tile travel set, Go Dog Go board book, trucks, Pixar Cars bath toys, Reusable Sticker books, and Crayola Mess Free Coloring books.

• diaper bag

• Insulated Snack bag - filled with PB&J sandwiches, That’s It Bars,

• wagon (instead of our stroller, but we LOVE this travel stroller)

Don’t forget to grab a Crossword Puzzle for nap time! This is our FAVORITE puzzle! Travel terms and countries! https://amzn.to/4lVixuR It keeps my mind working and gives me a list of places to add to our bucket list!

See our full list on Amazon.com!

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So pack your bags, grab your little adventurers, and get ready for a Lake Tahoe trip that’s anything but ordinary. It’s an adventure waiting to be explored, even with the littlest legs leading the way!

Please note this is not a sponsored post and based on my own personal experience, all thoughts are my own.

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Things to do in Summer in Lake Tahoe with a Toddler

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Read more about Lake Tahoe in these posts:

Guide: Honolulu, Hawaii - What to do and Where to go on Oahu

Rainbow tower - Hilton hawaiian Village Waikiki Beach Resort in Honolulu, Oahu

What to do (and what not to do) on Oahu

I’ve been to Honolulu a few times! The first time was with my family when my Dad was working on a special for Fox in 2000, which was a Britney Spears concert featuring Destiny’s Child and Joe (sings “I Wanna Know)! Then I also went with Josh, part of our island hopping after we got engaged in Maui in 2013. We also went for Thanksgiving in 2023 with a baby and a toddler. Those were 3 very different trips as you can imagine!

Oahu, the "Gathering Place," isn't just another pretty island; it's a Hawaiian party you’re invited to! Think lush volcanic peaks plunging into turquoise waters, waves that’ll make surfers drool, and enough shave ice to give you a brain freeze (in the best way possible). Want to hang with Mickey Mouse in a Hawaiian shirt? Aulani's your jam. Fancy a wild encounter? The Honolulu Zoo's got you covered (just try not to challenge the monkeys to a staring contest). Prefer underwater adventures? Dive into the Waikiki Aquarium and say "Aloha" to the colorful reef fish. Feeling a bit more historical? Hike Diamond Head for panoramic views or take a poignant trip to Pearl Harbor. And because no Hawaiian adventure is complete without a sweet treat, we'll point you in the direction of some seriously epic ice cream spots (because calories don't count on vacation, right?). So, ditch the mainland worries, grab your flip-flops, and get ready for an Oahu adventure that’s as diverse as it is delightful!

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Where to Stay in Oahu

I’ve stayed at the Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikiki Beach Resort a few times now and highly recommend it over other hotels! If you’ve seen the Waikiki skyline, it’s the hotel with the rainbow towers. It was the perfect place for a family, or can be great for couples or parties too, with multiple fun pool areas and located as the name of the resort suggests, right on Waikiki Beach!

Why You Should Shack Up at the Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikiki Beach Resort

This isn't just a hotel; it's a village! A sprawling oasis of fun, sun, and all things Hawaiian. Think of it as a mini-city dedicated to relaxation and good vibes, complete with its own lagoon, shops, restaurants, and (most importantly) ice cream opportunities.

Why the Lei-ing Around at the Hilton Hawaiian Village is a Must:

• Location, Location, Aloha-cation! Situated on Waikiki's widest stretch of beach, you're steps away from the sand, surf, and stunning ocean views. It’s like having your own private slice of paradise (with a few thousand of your closest friends).

• More Than Just a Room (It's a Whole Vibe): Forget cramped hotel rooms. The Hilton Hawaiian Village is a sprawling resort with multiple towers, each offering unique views and experiences. You could practically get lost exploring the grounds (in a good way!).

• Activities Galore (You Might Need a Vacation From Your Vacation): From surfing lessons and catamaran cruises to lei making and hula dancing, there’s never a dull moment. You might need to schedule some downtime to recover from all the fun!

• Food, Glorious Food (and Ice Cream!): With over 20 restaurants and bars, you’ll find everything from casual poolside snacks to fine dining experiences. And yes, there are plenty of places to grab a sweet, refreshing scoop of ice cream (more on that later!).

A Few Highlights That'll Make You Say "Aloha Awesome!":

• Duke Kahanamoku Lagoon: This five-acre saltwater lagoon is perfect for swimming, paddleboarding, and kayaking. It’s like having your own private ocean playground (without the waves crashing in your face).

• Paradise Pool: This isn't your average hotel pool. We're talking waterfalls, slides, and plenty of space to lounge and soak up the sun. It's basically a water park within a resort!

• The Beach (Duh!): With Waikiki Beach right at your doorstep, you can spend your days building sandcastles, taking a dip in the ocean, or simply relaxing and watching the surfers catch some waves.

• Shopping, Shopping, Shopping! The resort has its own shopping village with a variety of stores selling everything from souvenirs and beachwear to high-end fashion. So, if you forget your swimsuit (or just want to treat yourself), you’re covered.

• Ice Cream, Glorious Ice Cream! Okay, I promised ice cream, and I deliver! With multiple locations within the village offering a variety of flavors and treats, you can satisfy your sweet tooth anytime. Lappert’s is a MUST!

In a Coconut Shell: The Hilton Hawaiian Village is more than just a place to stay; it's a destination in itself. It’s a place where you can experience the best of Waikiki, relax in style, and create memories that will last a lifetime.

Hilton Hawaiian Village Entrance with traditional dancer statues

When Josh and I went in 2013, we used points and stayed at the Hyatt Place Waikiki Beach. It was nice, but not like a resort. They had a pool, but wasn’t very resort like. You’d probably be better off walking to the beach which was just down the street. The upside was our room was huge and had a view of Diamond Head.

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What to do in Oahu (hey, that rhymes!)

Oahu is a busier island compared to Maui or Kauai and Honolulu is more city like (like a nicer Santa Monica) in respects to restaurants, shops, and hotels. However, I hear the North Shore is where everyone goes to get away from the noise! I haven’t been to the north shore though.

Don’t forget to grab a Crossword Puzzle for beach time! This is our FAVORITE puzzle! Travel terms and countries! https://amzn.to/4lVixuR It keeps my mind working and gives me a list of places to add to our bucket list!

See our shopping list (with some great budget-friendly dresses and tons of Hawaiian outfit ideas) straight from Amazon: Hawaii Packing Essentials

I bumped into my friends Chip and Dale at Aulani!

Day trip in Honolulu: Visit Disney’s Aulani

Aulani is fun whether you’re a Disney fan or not, but let’s face it, I wanted to go check it out because I love Disney! Aulani is where Hawaiian culture meets Disney magic, creating a unique and unforgettable experience. It's like a luau and a Disney movie had a beautiful, tropical baby.

Not interested in staying at the resort and want to just stop by? If you go just past the Aulani resort, there is a public beach and a parking lot that gives you access to this perfect spot to spend the day. We picked up breakfast from Eggs n Things (walking distance from the Aulani resort) and had a beach breakfast, but there is also a Monkeypod Restaurant (with my fave Mai tais), or Black Sheep Cream Co (someone say ice cream?)!

For public parking: Drive down Aliinui Dr, make a right on Kamoana Place, and head to the end of the street into the parking lot 91100 Kamoana Place, Kapolei, HI 96707. There are limited spots so get there before 8a. If you walk through the parking lot towards the ocean, you will be right next to the Aulani resort and in their lagoon area.

Why the Hula-Hoopla about Aulani?

• It's Not Just a Hotel, It's an Immersion: Aulani isn't just a place to sleep; it's a fully immersive experience. From the moment you arrive, you're transported to a world of Hawaiian storytelling, culture, and (of course) Disney enchantment.

• Something for Everyone (Even the Grumpy Gus): Whether you're a thrill-seeker, a relaxation enthusiast, or a die-hard Disney fan, Aulani has something for you. Kids will be in paradise with the pools, water slides, and character meet-and-greets, while adults can unwind at the spa, enjoy fine dining, or sip cocktails by the ocean.

• Hawaiian Culture Woven Throughout: Aulani isn't just about Mickey Mouse; it's deeply rooted in Hawaiian culture. From the architecture and artwork to the activities and storytelling, you'll learn about the rich traditions and history of the islands. It’s educational AND fun – sneaky, Disney, sneaky!

• Character Meet-and-Greets with a Hawaiian Twist: Imagine meeting Mickey Mouse in his Hawaiian shirt or Minnie Mouse in a beautiful floral dress. It's the classic Disney magic you love, with a fun tropical twist. Prepare for some adorable photo ops as I even bumped into Chip and Dale!

Public Beach right next to Disney Aulani in Hawaii

- A Few Reasons Why You'll Be Saying "Aloha Aulani!":

• Waikolohe Valley: This isn't your average hotel pool. We're talking multiple pools, water slides (including the thrilling Volcanic Vertical!), a lazy river, and even a splash zone for the little ones. It's a water wonderland!

• Aunty's Beach House: This supervised kids' club is a dream come true for parents. While the kids are having a blast with games, crafts, and Hawaiian-themed activities, the adults can enjoy some much-needed relaxation time. It's a win-win!

• Laniwai – A Disney Spa: Need some pampering? Laniwai Spa offers a range of relaxing treatments inspired by Hawaiian traditions. It's the perfect place to unwind and rejuvenate after a day of fun in the sun.

• Dining with Character (and Delicious Food): From casual poolside snacks to fine dining experiences, Aulani offers a variety of dining options to satisfy every palate. And yes, you can even dine with some of your favorite Disney characters!

• The Beach!: Let's not forget the beautiful beach right outside the resort. Build sandcastles, take a dip in the ocean, or simply relax and soak up the Hawaiian sun.

In a nutshell: Aulani is more than just a vacation; it's an experience. It's a place where you can create unforgettable memories with your family, immerse yourself in Hawaiian culture, and experience the magic of Disney in a whole new way.

See our shopping list (with some great budget-friendly dresses and tons of Hawaiian outfit ideas) straight from Amazon: Hawaii Packing Essentials

There’s a little town with shopping and restaurants not Disney related across the street!

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Lappert’s has the best flavors in Hawaii!

Why Lappert's Ice Cream in Waikiki is a MUST-TRY (and a few flavors to get you started!)

Okay, listen up, fellow travelers and sweet treat enthusiasts! If you find yourself strolling along the sunny shores of Waikiki, with the warm Hawaiian breeze whispering sweet nothings in your ear, there's one pit stop you absolutely CANNOT miss: Lappert's Ice Cream.

Forget those sad, mass-produced scoops you find at the grocery store. Lappert's is the real deal, a true taste of Aloha in every lick. This isn't just ice cream; it's an experience. It's like a mini-vacation for your taste buds, a tropical party in your mouth!

Why the Hula-Baloo about Lappert's?

• Locally Made with Love: Lappert's isn't some big mainland chain. They're a homegrown Hawaiian gem, crafting their ice cream with the freshest ingredients and a whole lotta aloha spirit. You can taste the difference!

• Flavors That'll Make You Say "Whoa!": Forget boring vanilla (unless it's Tahitian Vanilla, because, well, that's just classy). Lappert's boasts a dazzling array of unique and drool-worthy flavors that'll make your head spin faster than a hula dancer.

• Perfect Waikiki Treat: What's better than strolling along Waikiki Beach with a cone of pure deliciousness in hand? Nothing, that's what. It's the ultimate way to cool down after a day of sun, sand, and surf.

Okay, Okay, I'm Sold! But What Flavors Should I Try?

Alright, here are a few Lappert's flavor suggestions to get your taste buds tingling:

• Kona Coffee: If you're a coffee lover, this is your jam. Rich, creamy, and packed with the bold flavor of Kona coffee, it's like a caffeine kick and a dessert all in one. Perfect for that afternoon pick-me-up!

• Hawaiian Sea Salt Caramel: Sweet, salty, and oh-so-decadent, this flavor is a symphony of contrasting tastes that somehow harmonize perfectly. It's like a caramel hug with a salty kiss.

• Macadamia Nut: You can't go to Hawaii without trying macadamia nuts, and Lappert's Macadamia Nut ice cream is the perfect way to do it. Creamy, nutty, and utterly irresistible.

• Tropical Dreams (like Passion Fruit or Mango): If you're feeling adventurous, dive into one of Lappert's tropical flavors. These vibrant and fruity scoops are like a burst of sunshine in your mouth.

Pro-Tip: Don't be shy about asking for samples! The friendly staff at Lappert's are usually happy to let you try a few flavors before you commit.

I suddenly have a craving for some Kona Coffee ice cream...

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Food and Restaurants on Oahu

Monkeypod (In the Outrigger Reef Resort - 2169 Kālia Rd unit 111, Honolulu, HI 96815 or next to the Aulani resort) ALWAYS go to Monkeypod... Any chance you get. We like to go during Happy Hour for the discounted prices, sunset, and drinks. What could be happier?

See our full review: Monkeypod Kitchen

Food Truck Park (1944 Kalākaua Ave, Honolulu, HI 96815) We found food trucks within walking distance of our hotel with tons of different options of any cuisine you could think of. It was perfect with the little ones because we got out on a walk and then had so many cusines to choose from. Some places had picnic tables but we opted to take food back to our room to enjoy our ocean view. We grabbed burgers, BBQ, Mac n Cheese, shave ice from their respective trucks!

A Few Things to Know About Food Trucks Before You Roll Out:

• Cash is King (Sometimes): While some trucks accept cards, it's always a good idea to have some cash on hand, just in case.

• Embrace the Lines (They're Worth It): Popular trucks can have lines, but trust me, the wait is usually worth the culinary reward. Plus, it's a great opportunity to people-watch and soak up the local vibes.

• BYOB (Bring Your Own… Blanket!): Some parks have seating areas, but it's always a good idea to bring a blanket or towel to spread out and enjoy your feast picnic-style.

• Check Social Media: Many food trucks post their locations and hours on social media, so it's a good idea to check their pages before you head out.

(Note: Food truck lineups can change, so it's always best to check for current vendors.)

A Few Food Truck Must-Trys (Because I Know You're Curious):

• Garlic Shrimp: You can't go to Hawaii without trying garlic shrimp, and many food trucks offer their own delicious versions of this local favorite.

• Plate Lunch: This Hawaiian staple typically includes two scoops of rice, macaroni salad, and a protein like kalua pig, chicken katsu, or teriyaki beef. It's a hearty and satisfying meal.

• Poke Bowls: Fresh, flavorful, and oh-so-Instagrammable, poke bowls are a must-try for any seafood lover.

• Shave Ice (For That Sweet Ending!): No food truck adventure is complete without a refreshing shave ice. Choose from a rainbow of flavors and add some sweet toppings like condensed milk or azuki beans. It's the perfect way to cool down on a hot Hawaiian day. Many food truck gatherings will have a dedicated shave ice vendor. If not, look for a stand nearby!

Don't Forget Dessert! While many food trucks focus on savory dishes, keep your eyes peeled for dessert trucks offering everything from gourmet cookies and brownies to malasadas (Portuguese donuts) and, of course, ice cream! It's the perfect sweet ending to your food truck feast.

Food trucks!

Monkeypod Honolulu

There’s the signature Merriman’s mai tai! Found at Monkeypod.

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Top of Diamond Head views

View of Diamond head from our room

Diamond Head: I'm Not a Hiker, But Even I Conquered This Volcanic Dude (And You Can Too!)

Okay, let's be real. I'm not exactly what you'd call an "avid hiker." My idea of a good workout usually involves a brisk walk to the freezer for ice cream. But even I was captivated by the majestic allure of Diamond Head, that iconic volcanic crater looming over Waikiki. So, if a self-proclaimed non-hiker like me can conquer this Hawaiian landmark, then you absolutely can too!

This isn't just a hike; it's a mini-adventure through history, geology, and some seriously stunning views. So, lace up your (most comfortable) shoes, grab some water, and let's embark on this slightly-sweaty-but-totally-worth-it journey!

A Little History to Get You Geologically Pumped:

• Not Actually a Diamond: Contrary to popular belief, there are no actual diamonds to be found in Diamond Head. The name came from British sailors in the 19th century who mistook calcite crystals for diamonds. Oops!

• A Volcanic Legacy: Diamond Head (or Lēʻahi in Hawaiian) is a tuff cone formed by a volcanic eruption about 300,000 years ago. Talk about ancient history!

• Strategic Military Post: In the early 20th century, the U.S. military built fortifications within the crater to protect Honolulu. You can still see some of these remnants along the trail.

Parking: The Not-So-Fun Part (But We'll Get Through It Together):

• Get There Early (Seriously): Parking at the Diamond Head State Monument is limited, and it fills up fast, especially on weekends and holidays. Aim to arrive as close to opening time (6:00 AM) as possible. Trust me, future-you will thank you.

• Reservation Required: You must have a reservation to visit so book up to 30 days in advance. See the Go State Hawaii Parks site for all the info.

• Don’t Hold It! There are public restrooms available.

• Parking Fees: There is a fee for parking inside the crater. It's best to check the official Hawaii State Parks website for the most up-to-date pricing.

• Alternative Options: If parking inside is full (which it probably will be if you don't arrive at the crack of dawn), you can park outside the crater and walk in. It's a bit of a walk, but it's a good warm-up for the hike. Consider taking the bus or a rideshare if you don't have a car.

The Hike: It's Not as Scary as It Looks (I Promise!):

Views from the top of Diamond Head

• The Trail: The hike is a 1.6-mile roundtrip trail that climbs 560 feet. It's mostly paved, but there are some uneven sections and stairs, including a long, winding staircase inside a tunnel.

• How Long Does It Take? Most people can complete the hike in about 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on their pace and how many photo stops they make (and trust me, you'll be making a lot).

• What to Bring: Water (essential!), sunscreen, a hat, comfortable shoes (no flipflops), and a camera to capture those epic views.

• See our shopping list (with some great budget-friendly dresses and tons of Hawaiian outfit ideas) straight from Amazon: Hawaii Packing Essentials

The View From the Top: Worth Every Step (Even the Sweaty Ones):

• Panoramic Perfection: The view from the summit is absolutely breathtaking. You'll be treated to panoramic views of Waikiki, the Pacific Ocean, and the surrounding mountains. It's like a postcard come to life!

• Photo Ops Galore: Get ready to snap some seriously Instagram-worthy photos. You can see the Waikiki skyline as well as ocean views. There was also a darling lighthouse below the peak, which was built in 1917.

• Bragging Rights: You conquered Diamond Head! Now you can officially brag to all your friends and family (and maybe even get a little bit of hiking street cred).

Hiking Diamond Head is a must-do for any visitor to Oahu, even if you're not a hardcore hiker. It's a relatively short and manageable hike with a huge payoff: stunning views, a dose of history, and the satisfaction of conquering a volcanic crater. So, go for it! You might just surprise yourself (and discover a newfound love for slightly-sweaty outdoor adventures). If you do go, keep in mind, that you deserve a celebratory shave ice after all that "hiking."

THis navigational Lighthouse was built in 1917

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Visit Pearl Harbor

The USS Bowfin Submarine was one of my faves!

Okay, history buffs and curious travelers, gather 'round! We're diving deep (not literally, thankfully) into one of the most significant historical sites in the United States: Pearl Harbor. Now, I know what you might be thinking: "History? That sounds like homework." My poor Dad wanted to go when my sister and I were teens but we couldn’t be bothered with a museum. Sorry Dad! It was enlightening and interesting, and I appreciated much more than my teen self would have.

But trust me on this one, Pearl Harbor is way more than just dates and battleships. It's a powerful and moving experience that will leave a lasting impression.

There are 5 must-sees at Pearl Harbor that you absolutely cannot miss:

1. The USS Arizona Memorial: A Floating Tomb and a Powerful Reminder

This is the centerpiece of the Pearl Harbor experience, and for good reason. The USS Arizona Memorial straddles the sunken remains of the battleship USS Arizona, where over 1,100 sailors and Marines lost their lives. Standing on the memorial, looking down at the rusting hull below, is a truly sobering experience. You can still see oil seeping from the ship, known as the "black tears," a poignant reminder of the lives lost. It's a place for quiet reflection and remembrance. Pro tip: Tickets for the USS Arizona Memorial are free but often book up quickly. Reserve them online in advance to avoid disappointment.

2. The USS Missouri: Where World War II Officially Ended

From the beginning of the war to its very end, Pearl Harbor has a story to tell. After the somber experience at the Arizona, a visit to the USS Missouri offers a different perspective. This mighty battleship was the site of the official surrender of Japan, marking the end of World War II. Walking the deck where the Instrument of Surrender was signed is a truly historic moment. You can practically feel the weight of history in the air. Plus, it's a massive battleship! Who doesn't love exploring a giant ship?

3. The Pacific Aviation Museum Pearl Harbor: Wings Over the Water

Calling all aviation enthusiasts! This museum, located on Ford Island, is a must-see. Housed in historic hangars that survived the attack, the museum showcases a fascinating collection of aircraft from World War II and beyond. You can see bullet holes in the windows and other remnants of the attack, making the experience even more impactful. It's a great way to learn about the crucial role aviation played in the Pacific theater.

4. The USS Oklahoma Memorial: Honoring the Forgotten Ship

While the Arizona is the most well-known casualty of the attack, the USS Oklahoma also suffered devastating losses. This memorial honors the 429 crewmen who perished when the Oklahoma capsized. It's a quieter, more intimate memorial, but no less moving. It's a reminder that every life lost at Pearl Harbor is worthy of remembrance.

5. The Pearl Harbor Visitor Center: Setting the Stage

Before you embark on your Pearl Harbor journey, be sure to spend some time at the Visitor Center. Here, you'll find informative exhibits, historical films, and personal accounts that provide crucial context for the events of December 7, 1941. It's a great way to prepare yourself emotionally and intellectually for the experience.

Pearl Harbor famous statue

A Few Extra Tips for Your Visit:

• Dress respectfully: This is a place of remembrance, so dress appropriately.

• Arrive early: Especially if you don't have advance reservations for the Arizona Memorial.

• Allow ample time: There's a lot to see and absorb, so don't rush your visit.

• Be prepared for emotions: Pearl Harbor is a powerful and moving experience. It's okay to feel a range of emotions during your visit.

Visiting Pearl Harbor is more than just a sightseeing trip; it's a pilgrimage to a place of immense historical significance. It's a chance to honor the lives lost, learn from the past, and reflect on the importance of peace. Aloha!

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Wild Times in Waikiki: 5 Reasons to Go Wild for the Honolulu Zoo & Dive into the Waikiki Aquarium

Honolulu Zoo and Aquarium

When you think of Honolulu, images of sun-kissed beaches, surfing, and maybe a Mai Tai or two probably spring to mind. But nestled amongst the vibrant energy of Waikiki are two fantastic attractions that offer a different kind of island adventure: the Honolulu Zoo and the Waikiki Aquarium. And guess what? I'm here to tell you why you should totally add them to your itinerary!

Honolulu Zoo: Where the Wild Things Roam (Just Steps from the Beach!)

Forget dusty old zoos; the Honolulu Zoo is a tropical oasis teeming with exotic animals and lush greenery, just a stone's throw from the famous Waikiki shoreline. Here are five reasons why it's worth a visit:

1. See Amazing Animals You Won't See at Home (Unless You Live in Africa): From majestic lions and playful orangutans to graceful giraffes and quirky Komodo dragons, the Honolulu Zoo is home to a diverse collection of animals from around the world. It's a fantastic opportunity to see these creatures up close and learn about their unique habitats and behaviors. Plus, they have a fantastic collection of native Hawaiian species!

2. It's a Lush Escape from the City Buzz: Waikiki can be a whirlwind of activity, but the zoo offers a tranquil escape. Stroll through beautifully landscaped gardens, listen to the sounds of nature, and enjoy a peaceful break from the hustle and bustle. It's like stepping into a mini-jungle in the heart of the city.

3. Perfect for Families (and Kids at Heart): Whether you're traveling with little ones or simply embrace your inner child, the Honolulu Zoo is a fun and engaging experience for all ages. There are interactive exhibits, educational programs, and plenty of opportunities to get up close with the animals.

4. Support Conservation Efforts: By visiting the Honolulu Zoo, you're contributing to their important conservation work. They're actively involved in breeding programs for endangered species and educating the public about the importance of protecting wildlife and their habitats.

5. It's Surprisingly Affordable: Compared to other attractions in Waikiki, the Honolulu Zoo offers a great value for your money. It's a fun and enriching experience that won't break the bank.

Bonus Dive: Waikiki Aquarium - Under the Sea, Darling, It's Better Down Where It's Wetter! (couldn’t resist, I love the Little Mermaid)

Just a short walk from the zoo, you can plunge into the underwater world at the Waikiki Aquarium, the second oldest public aquarium in the United States. Here's why you should make a splash:

1. Discover Hawaii's Unique Marine Life: The Waikiki Aquarium focuses on showcasing the incredible diversity of marine life found in Hawaiian waters. From colorful reef fish and majestic sea turtles to fascinating jellyfish and endangered Hawaiian monk seals, you'll get a glimpse into the vibrant underwater ecosystems that surround the islands.

2. Get Up Close and Personal with Coral Reefs: The aquarium has stunning coral reef exhibits that allow you to see these delicate ecosystems up close. Learn about the importance of coral reefs and the threats they face.

3. It's Educational and Engaging: The Waikiki Aquarium offers informative exhibits and programs that are both educational and entertaining. It's a great way to learn about marine conservation and the importance of protecting our oceans.

So, next time you're in Honolulu, don't just stick to the beach (though that's definitely a must-do too!). Take a walk on the wild side at the Honolulu Zoo and dive into the depths of the Waikiki Aquarium. You might just discover a whole new side to the island paradise.

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Though we LOVE Maui, I have enjoyed Oahu, a magical island where you can hike volcanic craters, surf legendary waves, snorkel with sea turtles, stuff your face with plate lunch, and maybe even spot a celebrity or two (just try not to stare at Mickey at Aulani). From the bustling city vibes of Honolulu to the laid-back surf towns of the North Shore, Oahu has something for everyone. Whether you're a thrill-seeking adventurer, a beach-bum extraordinaire, a history buff, or just someone who really, really likes pineapples, you're guaranteed to have a blast. Now go forth, explore, and remember to pack your sunscreen, your sense of adventure, and maybe an extra pair of stretchy pants for all that delicious Hawaiian food. Aloha and happy exploring!

See our shopping list (with some great budget-friendly dresses and tons of Hawaiian outfit ideas) straight from Amazon: Hawaii Packing Essentials

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More Hawaii? Here you go!

Ice Cream Review: The Dolly Llama - Los Angeles

I'm holding a bubble waffle Dolly's Dream - cookie monster ice cream, chocolate sauce, brownie, strawberries, and whipped cream!

Alpaca Your Bags (and Your Spoon!): A Quirky Ode to Dolly Llama Ice Cream

• ICE CREAM SPOT: DOLLY LLAMA

• LOCATIONS: Across the US

• Pricing: -⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ $10 for a fresh made waffle ice cream and toppings - its kinda like a meal

• Taste: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (4/5 creamy soft-serve)

• Dietary Restrictions: Vegan option always available

• Take-out: Local delivery service available

Is your mouth watering yet? Mine was as I was handed the delicious Dolly Llama “cone” above!

Let's be honest, the ice cream scene is saturated. Every corner boasts artisanal swirls, gourmet toppings, and flavors that sound like they belong in a Michelin-star restaurant (lavender-infused goat cheese with black truffle dust, anyone?). But sometimes, you just want something… different. Something with a touch of whimsy, a sprinkle of fun, and maybe, just maybe, a hint of llama magic. Enter: Dolly Llama Ice Cream.

Now, I know what you're thinking: "Llamas and ice cream? Is this some kind of fever dream?" Fear not, dear reader, for Dolly Llama is not some hallucination brought on by excessive sugar consumption (though that is a distinct possibility after a visit). It's a real, tangible, and utterly delightful ice cream experience that I'm here to wholeheartedly endorse.

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Let’s start with some fun facts of why we at the Sweetest Escapes and Dolly Llama get along… we both love travel and ice cream (but I mean, really, who doesn’t?):

1. Belgium OG Liege waffles served - I’ll explain more later…

2. Hong Kong-style crispy on the outside and soft on the inside Bubble Waffles 

3. The Dolly Llama sent two employees and chefs to Belgium to learn how to craft the perfect OG Liege waffles 

4. The name 'The Dolly Llama' comes from co-founder Samuel Baroux who was in the South of France and met a real-life llama named Dolly and just fell in love with the weirdness of naming a shop after the llama. MY FAVORITE FACT!

Dolly Llama logo - Sherman Oaks location is now closed :(

Why should you ditch the predictable and embrace the llama-licious? Let me break it down:

• The Names are Pure Genius: Forget boring vanilla and mundane chocolate. At Dolly Llama, you're ordering things like "Salted Caramel Swirl," "Cookie Monster," and "Matcha Made in Heaven." Okay, those might sound normal, but they have unique twists. The names on the menu themselves are fun and quirky. It's like they hired a poet laureate of puns to craft their flavor descriptions. It's an experience just reading the menu!

Dolly Llama Menu

More reasons…

• It's an Instagram Dream: Let's be real, we all secretly (or not-so-secretly) love a good photo op. Dolly Llama understands this. Their shops are designed to be utterly charming, often featuring, you guessed it, llama-themed decor. Think pastel colors, quirky artwork, and maybe even a plush llama or two hanging around. Your Instagram feed will thank you.

• The Ice Cream is Actually Amazing: All the quirky branding in the world wouldn't matter if the ice cream wasn't up to snuff. Thankfully, Dolly Llama delivers. They use high-quality ingredients and create unique and delicious flavors. It's not just a gimmick; it's genuinely good ice cream.

• It's a Mood Booster: Walking into Dolly Llama is like entering a tiny pocket of pure joy. The vibrant colors, the playful atmosphere, and the promise of delicious ice cream are guaranteed to put a smile on your face. It's the perfect antidote to a bad day, a mid-afternoon slump, or, let's be honest, any time you just need a little bit of happiness.

Dolly Llama Ice Cream options

How to build a yummy concoction? Well, let’s pick an ice cream base and a cup or cone (always pick the bubble waffle) and then sprinkle toppings to your heart’s content!

Fan that fresh bubble cone! Don’t let the ice cream melt!

Ice Cream Artist at work!

AND TA DAAAAAAAA!

The llama is having an OG Liege waffle with caramel salted ice cream!

The llama above is having an OG Liege waffle with caramel salted ice cream! What the heck is that? The Liège waffle is one of the two main types of waffles that originated in Belgium. Known for its rich sticky texture, its unmatched flavor and caramelized finish are what make it so unique.

My only word of warning: Be prepared for a sugar rush. And maybe a slight obsession with llamas. But hey, there are worse things in life, right?

So, next time you're craving a sweet treat, skip the usual suspects and head straight for Dolly Llama. You won't regret it. Just remember to alpaca your spoon! (I couldn't resist.)

P.S. If you see a real llama wandering around the shop, please alert the authorities. That's probably not supposed to happen.

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Another scoop please!

Maui Restaurant Review: Star Noodle - Don't miss this spot!

Star Noodle Restaurant Views - Front Street

Updated January 12, 2026

Star Noodle

Location: 1287 Front St, Lahaina, HI 96761

When we got married in Maui (or when we got Maui’d) in 2014, our friends were all telling us how great Star Noodle was! We didn’t have time on that trip but wanted to try it if we ever came back. We came back every year since 2014 , but finally made it to Star Noodle in 2019 because we remembered to make a reservation in advance! We learned why everyone was raving about this place… the garlic noodles had us coming back the next day!

RELATED POST: See more like this in our post, BEST RESTAURANTS IN MAUI

Pork Buns at Star Noodle

Star Noodle Location in 2026

In 2020, Star Noodle moved locations to occupy the old Aloha Mixed Plate spot right on Front Street. We dined three times during the month we were there and tried many items on the menu.

We even had the perfect table right by the water at sunset! How lucky! Since Star Noodle is located next to the Old Lahaina Luau, we could hear and kind of see the show!

2026 Update - After the Lahaina fires, Star Noodle closed and reopened in 2024 right nextdoor (1287 Front St) to their old location which Aloha Mixed Plate (1285 Front St) moved back into!

For a complete breakdown of where to eat, stay, and what to do, see our Ultimate Maui Travel Guide.

Reservation Recommended

Reservations can be made on YELP, I suggest making them at least 1-2 weeks in advance and check what time sunset is! Once you arrive, the host will take your temperature, then take you to your table. Masks must be worn at all times, except while at your own table.

Star Noodle Menu

Most dishes are fairly large portions and perfect for sharing so you can try more things!

Star Noodle Menu

Don’t miss these Appetizers at Star Noodle

We ALWAYS start with an order of pork buns (see photo above)! They come with 3 or 4 and the pork belly in that sweet bun is pure perfection.

We also are huge fans of the Nuoc Cham Wings! The sweet glaze with a slight crisp makes a delicious chicken wing!

Nuoc Cham Wings - Chicken Wings at Star Noodle

Entrees You Must try at Star Noodle

Always ask if there are any specials!

Our new favorite ramen dish is the Star Udon - Roast pork in a rich pork broth served with thick udon noodles! The pork is perfect and melts in your mouth and the broth will have you sipping your bowl by the end!

We LOVE the garlic noodles and HAVE to order them EVERY TIME we go. Our waiter taught us a neat trick, ask for the thicker udon noodles for the garlic noodle dish - game changer!

The Rib Eye was delicious and savory, smothered in delicious grilled onions. The market price changes based on how the chef is preparing the meat that day.

The Adobo Ribs are good, but we prefer the chicken wings. The meat falls right off the bone!

Clockwise from top: Star Udon, Garlic Noodles, Adobo Ribs

These Star Noodle Desserts are the BEST

Don’t forget dessert (I never do)! One of the nights we went, their ice cream choices included Ube Oreo, Mint mango, and Pineapple lichee. The consistency was interesting on these, but the flavors were outstanding.

Ice Cream at Star Noodle - Ube Oreo, Mint mango, Pineapple liChee 

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Star Noodle has us coming back again and again! Let us know in the comments below if you’ve tried it!

Please note this is not a sponsored post and based on my own personal experience, all thoughts are my own.

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Star Noodle Restaurant Review

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More Maui posts

11 Best Ice Cream Trucks and Catering in Los Angeles

Ice Cream Trucks you need to try in LA!

These aren’t your creepy vans that sell Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtle pops, these are exceptional artisan ice cream trucks that Angelino’s seek out! Ice cream trucks are fun for parties and work functions, but also nice when they are in your area.

Here are some of my favorite ice cream trucks in LA:

King Kone Ice Cream Soft Serve

King Kone Ice Cream Truck

If you’re looking for soft serve and sprinkles, this truck’s got you covered! Their menu doesn’t end there, try an ice cream sandwich, milkshake, or banana split! No matter what, there is something for everyone!

CVT Soft Serve Truck

CVT’s goal is to make the best soft serve around! Using local California dairy, they have perfected their soft serve and claim it is the best west of the Atlantic. As they say, “is it arrogant if it’s true?” Their comedic and transparent personality makes for a great follow on their Instagram! Whatever you do, don’t ask them for free things in exchange for social media posts, Influencers pay double! #welovemostofourcustomers

Recess Ice Cream Truck

Recess Ice Cream Truck

We ordered this truck a few times for work functions and they didn’t disappoint! Recess offers fun options like french toast sliders, frozen hot chocolate, ice cream sandwiches, sundaes, and more!

Van Leeuwen Ice Cream Truck

I often see the Van Leeuwen truck on Abbott Kinney, but you can also rent for parties and events! Their artisan ice cream flavors will please any audience and they offer gluten-free and vegan flavors!

McConnell’s Fine Ice Creams Truck

McConnell’s Fine Ice Cream Truck

“Have ice cream, will travel” is this Santa Barbara-based company’s motto! LA locals are familiar with McConnell’s scoop shops around town and their ice cream truck can often be found at street fairs. You can book them for parties, weddings, corporate events, and more!

Blast Ice Cream Truck

Blast Ice Cream Truck

Blast truck serves liquid nitrogen ice cream so it is sure to be in its freshest purest form. They serve organic ice cream, scratch-made, and finish each order off with locally sourced toppings. We first found them at Smorgasburg LA.

Happy Ice Truck

Happy Ice, per their website, is an “ultra-premium Water Ice product, made from a secret recipe from Philadelphia with an artistic LA twist. It has the smooth, rich, creamy texture of ice cream and the light, fruity refreshment of a sorbet, without egg or dairy products of any kind.” You can spot this truck from miles away with the vibrant colors. It is also black-owned business, show some support!

Oat-ly Ice Cream Truck

Oat-ly Ice Cream Truck

Oat-ly is an original oat milk company from Sweden that turns nutritious liquid oat milk into ice cream! It’s plant-based, vegan, and gluten-free! They also are earth-conscious, making their ice cream while reducing their carbon footprint as much as possible.

Kona Shaved Ice Truck

Have a luau or tropical island-themed party? Have some authentic shave Ice to go with your tiki decor! They even do fundraisers for functions like schools and sports teams!

Sweet N Hollow Chimney Cake

Sweet N' Hollow

Ok, so this may not be a truck, but a great ice cream catering option! Instead of a waffle cone, ice cream is served in Chimney Cakes! What are those? Well, “Ever been to PRAGUE or BUDAPEST? Then maybe you’ve tried this Eastern European sweet pastry! A warm bread made with fresh yeast dough rolled on a wooden cylinder and baked in a rotisserie grill. ‘Kürtőskalács’ or ‘Trdelnik’ is crunchy on the outside and soft on the inside. A cinnamon-sugar topping makes this a classic European delight!”

You can often find them at Smorgasburg DTLA!

SuperCool Creamery

SuperCool Creamery

Supercool combines ice cream and magic with a little liquid nitrogen! Fantastic flavors and a variety of toppings (including booze), they’ll add pizaazz to any party! They used to have a shop in Silver Lake but are currently only offering their catering service. See our full post: SuperCool Creamery Review

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More Los Angeles Posts:

Ice Cream Review: Rori’s Artisanal Creamery - Great Ice Cream in Los Angeles, CA

Rori’s Artisanal Creamery - Century City

Rori’s Artisanal Creamery - Fantastic Los Angeles Local Ice Cream

• Locations: Santa Monica, Century City, Long Beach (and up the coast)

• Website: rorisartisanalcreamery.com

• Pricing: Get a split scoop in a bowl for your best value. The cones are really good too.

• Dietary Restrictions: Vegan ice cream options available

• Take-out: Pints are available and you can find them in select grocery stores. See their website for more!

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Rori’s Artisanal Creamery Ice Cream Cone

LA Ice Cream Natives

Rori’s originates here in California, freshly scooped from Carpinteria! Owner, Rori Trovato, makes all the ice cream, cookies, cones, and candy recipes, and try some of her great flavors like Biscoff, Black Pepper Pistachio, Fresh Mint Patty, Malted Milk English Toffee, Nutella, Peanut Butter Candy Swirl - mix a unique flavor with a classic flavor for the best combo!

Rori’s Ice Cream Menu

Rori’s Ice Cream Menu

Get shakes, floats, homemade cookies, brownies, What the Fudge bars and pints to go here too! They even cater parties, but you have to invite me if you hire them! ;-)

Rori Trovato makes all the ice cream, cookies, cones, and candy recipes! She finely crafted each flavor to organic perfection. Rori used to supply the lavender and lemon from her garden but has since sourced it from local organic farms.

Straus Family Creamery Organic cream, milk and eggs create a delightfully creamy texture to their unique flavors including Honey Almond Crunch, Fresh Mint Patty, Malted Milk English Toffee, you can't go wrong with any of these choices.

"The best cream for your coffee is ice cream!!" I'm adopting this as my new motto. Need a pick me up? Try an affogoto (coffee/espresso with ice cream)! Also, love that they have candy and cookies - SO MANY SWEETS!

Rori has even made ice cream for your dog to enjoy! Organic yogurt, bananas, and peanut butter will leave your four-legged friend happy too!

Not near a scoop shop? That’s okay! Local supermarkets like Erewhon are selling Rori’s ice cream by the pint!

You MUST try the Wildberry Chocolate Crisp and Malted Milk ball

GET FREE ICE CREAM ON YOUR BIRTHDAY

Join their birthday club! CLICK HERE - see the bottom of the page for email signup. They also make ice cream cakes to make your special occasion even more special! AND they have Taco Tuesday... ICE CREAM TACOS! WHAT! Anyone wanna try these with me?! Also, they sell ice cream by the pint if a scoop isn't enough! ;-)

Rori’s Ice Cream Locations

Rori's has more locations along the California coastline, including Montecito, Santa Barbara, and Santa Monica. Visit the factory near Santa Barbara next time you’re in town!

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Need another scoop? Try these:

Ice Cream Review: Halo Top Scoop Shop in Los Angeles, CA - Best soft serve!

Halo Top Scoop Shop

• LA Location: The Grove, 189 The Grove Dr, Los Angeles, CA 90036 - all other locations have been permanently closed! :(

• Website: https://www.halotopscoopshop.com/ 

• Pricing: Generous soft-serve portion for a great price - ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 4/5

• Taste: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️  (4/5 for their soft-serve but 3/5 for their ice cream)

• Take-out: Take-out only - enjoy on the grass near the fountain!

• Dietary Restrictions: Dairy Free Options Available and Guilt-Free Options!

Hot pink ice cream cone with Halo Top’s Peaches and Cream Soft Serve!

I love ice cream but I hate dieting! I was thrilled when I discovered Halo Top at my local Ralphs, finally, a low-calorie ice cream that is delicious! I love everything about this brand, their marketing, flavors, and was so excited to hear the news that an ice cream scoop shop was opening near me! 

2020 UPDATE: A lot of the scoop shop locations have closed but The Grove is open with the same options as my visit to Century City! The Grove location is right in front of Nordstroms where Haagen Dazs used to be. It’s best to grab a soft serve cone and enjoy it near the fountain!

Don’t forget to check out our complete list of Best Ice Cream Scoop Shops in Los Angeles

Halo Top Scoop Shop - Century City - PERMANENTLY CLOSED

Halo Top Scoop Shop Menu Flavors

If I buy the pint, I’ll want to eat the whole thing! Here you can get not only your favorite pint flavors but also incredible soft serve options! Since I can get a pint anytime at my local Ralphs, I wanted to try something different so I went for the soft serve. I tried all three soft serve options - Chocolate, Vanilla, Strawberry, and Peaches & Cream. All were tasty, but the peaches and cream flavor was perfect for the warm summer day!

There were so many different options from 4 different kinds of cones to ice cream sandwiches and ICE CREAM TACOS! Also, the cones came in the best colors - pink and a bluish turquoise!

Halo Top Scoop Shop Menu

Halo Top Ice Cream Scoop Shop

Halo Top Scoop Shop Menu

It was also chock full of topping options to add to your delectable treats.

Toppings bar at Halo Top

I was debating on what my base should be, and when I heard they had pink ice cream cones, I knew it was a must (and it matched my nails!). 

YUM! If you get the chance, grab a cone or a taco and always add sprinkles on top! 

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MORE LOS ANGELES POSTS:

Giapo - Best Ice Cream (and fanciest) in Auckland, New Zealand

Ice Cream Review: Giapo Haute Ice Cream

• Location: 12 Gore St, Auckland, 1010, New Zealand

• Website: Giapo Ice Cream

• Pricing: Generous portion that is hand-crafted with fancy edible embellishments ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 5/5 stars for that

• Taste: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (4/5 creamy for gelato)

• Dietary Restrictions: Halal, vegan, kosher, and gluten-free options available

• Take-out/Pickup: Pickup and local delivery service available - Download their app in the Apple app store or Google Play!

Giapo Ice Cream in Auckland, New Zealand

We stopped in Auckland, New Zealand while on our honeymoon and found the best ice cream shop with the fanciest treats I've ever seen.

Giapo is for the people who are ready to see ice cream as a platform for freedom and art. Giapo is for anyone who dares to strive for more.

Gianpaolo Grazioli (Giapo) and his wife Annarosa Petrucci just want to make the best ice cream in the world, from the bottom of the world. Their story is so cute, they met in high school in Southern Italy and are now making big strides in the ice cream industry. Italian culinary tastemaker website, Dissapore, named Giapo one of the top 10 gelaterias in the WORLD.

Giapo looks at ice cream as art and is a great innovator! Even the entrance was gorgeous and inviting. 

Giapo Ice Cream Shop

Our ice cream designer was a hoot! So much personality and helped us figure out if we wanted hokey pokey or chocolate evolution. Everyone was so nice and you could tell that they loved their job!

Sassy Ice Cream Scooper! Loved her!

Giapo Ice Cream Menu

I loved the creative names of the flavors, though it made it hard to order because I had no idea what was in "Kiss Kiss." These one-of-a-kind flavors included the classics, and there's always an Aotearoa Garden seasonal special.

Giapo Ice Cream Menu

Giapo Squid Ice Cream Cone - @giapokitchen Instagram

During these new times, they have posted their menu online and you can order through the app, then easily pick up your order in front of the store!

The colossal squid cone is one of their most famous ice cream cone designs, but they have many other beautiful creations. See their Instagram @giapokitchen for more.

Giapo Ice Cream Menu 2020

All toppings are handcrafted in the shop. Luxuriously appointed cones and chocolate cups that make the Giapo ice cream spectacular for both eyes and taste buds. Just look at the exquisite gold hazelnuts in the first picture!

Ice cream artists scooping and designing away!

If we were staying longer in NZ, I would have loved to take their Ice Cream Masterclass, where you can prep, make, and create your own luxurious concoction. There’s even a kitchen tour, which I would have also loved!

Giapo New Zealand Ice Cream

For bookings see more info here giapo.com or contact them via email giapo@giapo.com or whatsapp us here.

I'm in love with this place! I wish New Zealand wasn't so far from California! Please open a shop here, Giapo! 

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Ice Cream Scoop Shop Review: Little Damage and the little black cone | Downtown Los Angeles

Ice Cream Scoop Shop Review: Little Damage

• Location: Downtown LA - 700 S Spring St, Los Angeles, CA 90014

• Website: littledamage.com

• Pricing: Generous soft-serve portion for a great price (one free topping included -⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 5 stars for that)

• Taste: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (4/5 creamy soft-serve)

• Dietary Restrictions: Vegan option always available

• Take-out: Local delivery service available

I had been wanting to visit Little Damage for a long time and always saw on social media how the line went out the door and wrapped around the corner. I waited until winter to finally check it out and it was definitely worth the hype!

Little Damage counter and menu with a list of their flavors!

ABOUT LITTLE DAMAGE

Little Damage is known for its devilish, black charcoal waffle cone. It gives a unique look against contrasting colorful soft serve or bright sprinkles. Flavors often rotate as they make their ice cream in small batches with local ingredients from organic dairy farms and zero preservatives.

Little Damage Ice Cream Quote - “I licked it, so it’s mine!”

LITTLE DAMAGE ICE CREAM QUOTES

The shop is small but has cute neon signs with fun sayings like:

“I licked it, so it’s mine”

“Cute but psycho, but cute”

“I like love you”

Are you singing the “Cute but Psycho” song too?

Little Damage neon sign quote - Cute but psycho, but cute

HOW IT TO ORDER AT LITTLE DAMAGE

I mean it’s not complicated but here we go: there are a handful of flavors listed on the wall, pick one of those plus a free topping from the selection of topping jars on the counter!

Kiki n Cream was blue! Tasty with crumbled Oreos on top!

LITTLE DAMAGE IS SOCIAL MEDIA FRIENDLY

This place is an Instagram dream! So many great spots for social media pics from neon signs to spots on the side walk out in front! They even have a FREE photo booth in the back to entice you to take pics with your ice cream and post to social media!

Cute outline for Instagram pictures of gothic ice cream in front of Little Damage

In conclusion (because that’s how you end a good blog post, right?) if I’m in DTLA, I’d stop here again for a gothic black ice cream cone!

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Please note this is not a sponsored post and based on my own personal experience, all thoughts are my own.

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Ice Cream Review: Little Damage Ice Cream DTLA

More Ice Cream Related Posts:

6 Most Instagrammable, Pretty, Colorful Ice Cream Shops in Los Angeles, California

6 Best Instagram Ice Cream Spots in LA

You know I love ice cream… especially pretty ice cream pictures! You can go to places like Black Tap and get crazy Freak Shakes for $15 or you can go to a local ice cream shop and get something just as tasty and Instagram worthy! Los Angeles has tons of Instagram Ice Cream shops, you just have to know where to look. Influencers, tourists, Angelinos - here is our list for your next perfect social media ice cream pictures!

Related Post: BEST ICE CREAM SCOOP SHOPS IN LOS ANGELES (Rated, ranked, and map included)

After’s Ice Cream in Venice

Afters Ice Cream

Locations: All over LA (this photo was taken at the Venice Beach location)

Afters Ice Cream has tons of tasty flavors and some are bright in color! Cookie Monster ice cream is blue and tastes amazing, but caution, it will temporarily leave your mouth blue! Totally worth it though. The Venice location is nice with a picture-perfect beach background, however, keep in mind ice cream can melt pretty fast!

They also have witty sayings like, “ruining diets everywhere.”

See more photos in our full review: AFTERS ICE CREAM REVIEW

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Little Damage Ice Cream - Downtown LA

Little Damage

Location: Downtown LA - 700 S Spring St, Los Angeles, CA 90014

This devilish, black, charcoal waffle cone gives a unique look against contrasting colorful soft serve or bright sprinkles. Flavors often rotate as they make their ice cream in small batches with local ingredients from organic dairy farms and zero preservatives.

See our full review here: LITTLE DAMAGE ICE CREAM REVIEW

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Milk Bar LA

Milk Bar

Location: 7150 Melrose Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90046

Shopping in Melrose? Momofuku’s Milk Bar is open in Los Angeles and people are flocking from all over for these tasty treats! Cookies, cakes, and soft serve will leave you happy and full! 

Lots of hot pink colors here! Outside there is a cake painted on the side of the building that is a full story high! See it in our full review: MILK BAR REVIEW

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Sloan’s Ice Cream Shop

Sloan’s Ice Cream

Locations: Santa Monica and Woodland Hills

These pretty pink stores are vibrant and can be seen a mile away! Inside, you’ll find walls with sprinkles and lollipops with fancy chandeliers hanging. Sloan’s also has amazing ice cream flavors and serves up generous portions!

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Bumsan Organic Milk Bar

Bumsan Organic Milk Bar

Location: Koreatown - 534 S Western Ave
Los Angeles, CA 90020

Ok, don’t these pretty ice cream cones just scream Instagram ME!? The colors, toppings, and fancy swirl give these classy cones an edge. Bumsan serves premium 100% organic soft-serve ice cream from the leading organic dairy producer in Korea.

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SomiSomi Ah-Boong Fish Shaped Waffle Cone with Ice Cream

SomiSomi Soft Serve and Taiyaki

Locations: Santa Monica, Glendale, Little Tokyo, Koreatown and more!

SomiSomi serves a very special Korean dessert known as “Ah-Boong,” which is a fish-shaped waffle cone with your choice of filling and topped with soft serve.

Flavors include: Milk, Matcha, Ube, Black Sesame and more.

Filling stuffed inside the taiyaki cone include: Custard, Nutella, Red Bean, Cream Cheese and Taro.

Don’t forget a topping like Oreo crumbs, Strawberry, macaron, Graham crackers, Fruity Pebbles, or rainbow sprinkles (always my fave)!

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Please note this is not a sponsored post and based on my own personal experience, all thoughts are my own.

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6 Most Instagrammable, Pretty, Colorful Ice Cream Shops in Los Angeles, California

More ice cream posts please!

10 FUN things you must do in Wailea - Maui, Hawaii

Top Ten Things to do and See in Wailea, Hawaii

First or sixth trip to Hawaii? Doesn’t matter, check out these fun things to do in Wailea! It’s a pretty coastal drive if you’re staying in Lahaina or a great place to stay for a few nights! We stayed at the Grand Wailea and fell in love with Wailea!

Not sure which area is right for you? Our Ultimate Maui Travel Guide compares Kaanapali, Wailea, and other regions.

Here’s a list of what to do in Wailea, Maui:

1. Go for a Hike in Wailea

   Wailea hikes are the best way to start the day! At the end of Makena Road just past Wailea, there is a trail to hike around old lava fields. We were lucky enough to find a Hawaiian Monk Seal that had just given birth days prior and was on the shore with her pup. We took the Haopili Trail to Hanomanioa Light where at the end of the trail is one of those natural pools that you often see influencers float in on Instagram. If you’re lucky, you’ll come across some black mountain goats along the way!

Hike to the natural pools in Wailea

2. Find a Secret Beach in Wailea

Maybe it’s not such a secret if I’m telling you. Again, At the end of Makena Road just past Wailea, if you’re not in the mood to hike (see #1), there are little beach coves that only fit a few people so you can jump in the water, do yoga, read a book, have a picnic lunch, or take a nap! It’s a private beach all to yourself! Pro Tip: Claim your spot early.

Secret Beaches in Wailea

3. Enjoy a day by the beach!

Beach chairs are provided by most hotels, you just have to get there early to nab one. We stayed at the Grand Wailea and would grab a few chairs around 8am to be in the front row.

4. Snorkel around Turtle Town

Wailea has some great spots for snorkeling, but you have to check out Turtle Town. Turtle Town is where the turtles come to have the cleaner fish pick off the algae and other parasites living on their backs! We also saw quite a few turtles right near our hotel (Grand Wailea).

Related posts: Best Snorkel Spots in Maui and Best Scuba Spots in Maui

Snorkel around Turtle Town in Wailea

5. Visit the Turtles in Wailea

Right off the back of a Makena Landing parking lot (5083 Makena Alanui, Kihei, HI 96753), you’ll often find turtles resting in the sand/rocks. Don’t disturb them, but admire them from the trees! Also, there were tons of chickens chasing each other in the parking lot.

Resting Turtles in Wailea

6. Go Shopping in Wailea!

I always love shopping! The Shops at Wailea have everything you need from high-end stores like Louis Vuitton to the ABC Store! Lappert’s ice cream can be found here and you’ll smell the fresh waffle cones wafting in the air when you get close! Soha Living has the cutest coastal decor, which makes great souvenirs! The Island Gourmet Markets is the best Wailea grocery store and their coffee shop brews a delicious coconut macadamia nut latte!

7. Pineapple Wine Tasting

There is a vineyard on Maui and it’s not far from Wailea! Have a taste of Maui Wine’s famous pineapple wines, exclusive small production estate wines, and sparkling wines.

FUN FACT: The King’s Cottage was originally built in the 1870s to welcome King Kalākaua himself, the last reigning king of Hawai’i. He would come to ‘Ulupalakua to enjoy a little royal vacation time with lavish dinners, dancing, champagne, and celebration. Maui wine continues that celebration today, this time inviting all of you! Complimentary guided tours of the historic estate, production area, and wine cellar.

8. Golf in Wailea

Josh loves to golf and there is a fantastic course (Wailea Golf Club) with gorgeous views in Wailea. The Wailea Gold Course is not only gorgeous but one of the top 100 courses in America!

Wailea Golf Club

9. Restaurants in Wailea

Do some fine dining - you’re on vacation! Monkeypod Kitchen is a MUST, their mai tais are my favorite on the island (food is fantastic too)! We also really liked Lineage (Top Chef, Sheldon Simeon’s restaurant), conveniently located in The Shops at Wailea shopping center.

10. Spa Day in Wailea

You’re at the beach in Hawaii, RELAX! Go for a nice massage and then grab a drink by the pool. Many of the resorts have spas, don’t be afraid to try them. This is the ultimate vacation life!

Grand Wailea Luau - Best in Wailea

BONUS TIP: Don’t miss the Grand Wailea Luau!

If you walk along the pathway at night, you’ll hear the drums and luau music play. You can kinda see what’s happening on the luau stage as you stroll by, but you should experience the show along with a traditional Hawaiian dinner! The Marriott Wailea luau puts on a good show too. Get a great price on luau tickets with Activity Authority!

Maui is part of ListForAll.com’s TOP 25 TROPICAL VACATIONS and I think these are some good reasons for Maui to make that list!

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Things to do in Wailea - Maui, Hawaii

All MAUI POSTS HERE or the latest and greatest:

20 Best Ice Cream Scoop Shops in Los Angeles - Ranked and Map Included!

20 Best Ice Cream Scoop Shops open and delivery options in LA (with map)!

It’s that time of year again! July is National Ice Cream Month and I’m here to celebrate despite the state of the world at the moment! Ice cream is my happy place and I think we all need a little happiness these days!

NATIONAL ICE CREAM DAY is JULY 19, 2020!

See our post on where to find FREE scoops and deals: National Ice Cream Day 2020

I’ve ranked my favorite shops (best to last), and have even included a map for you to access anytime, anywhere in LA! I’m also adding in where you can get pints to go, as it is still very important to wear masks and social distance. Find the “best ice cream places open near me” by using the map below!

Looking for vegan and dairy-free ice cream options? I have those too! Now let’s get scoopin’!

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Strawberry Rhubarb and Blood Orange

GINGER’S DIVINE ICE CREAMS

• Location: West LA - 12550 W. Washington Boulevard, Los Angeles, CA 90066

• Website: gingersicecream.com

• Pricing: Great value for amazing homemade ice cream

• Dietary Restrictions: Vegan ice cream options available

• Take-out: Homemade cookies, pops, brownies, and pints to go are also available here as well!

I discovered the best-kept secret on the Westside called Ginger's Divine Ice Creams! Ginger herself creates all ice creams and is often found at farmer’s markets in the area for the best local ingredients that are California homegrown. So many fresh flavors such as Strawberry Rhubarb, Chocolate Covered Crack, Oaxaca Habanero, "The Dude" White Russian, Unicorn Cotton Candy, it’s hard to choose and you’ll want to return again and again! Her flavors are inventive and different from other scoop shops, see her latest mashups here: Gingers Divine Ice Cream Flavors.

I’m gonna call it the Best Ice Cream in Los Angeles and my favorite ice cream in LA!

See the full review here: Ice Cream Review: Ginger’s Divine Ice Creams

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Rainbow Buttermilk on top of Cream Puff

JENI’S ICE CREAMS

• LA Locations: Santa Monica, Larchmont, Calabasas, Los Feliz (see more on their site)

• Website: jenis.com

• Pricing: Great value for artisan ice cream flavors ($6 for a split scoop)

• Dietary Restrictions: Vegan and dairy-free ice cream options available

• Take-out: Pints are available to go or you can order online! NEW: You can even find some flavors in select stores!

Jeni’s flavors are out of this world! A true artisan ice cream confectionary that started in Ohio and has made its way to California! So many flavors to choose from including Blackout Chocolate Cake, Boston Cream Pie, Cream Puff, Frozé, Coffee with Cream and Sugar, and Salted Peanut Butter with Chocolate Flecks… literally, try them all!

New flavors are featured each month (Jeni’s Ice Cream Flavors) and get this, you can even have an ice cream subscription and have ice cream delivered to your house monthly! Happy to help you eat them.

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SALT AND STRAW

• LA Locations: Downtown LA, Mid-city (Beverly near Fairfax), WeHo, Studio City, Venice

• Website: saltandstraw.com

• Pricing: On the higher side, but the ingredients are more complex

• Dietary Restrictions: Vegan ice cream options available

• Take-out: Pints are available to go or you can order online

I LOVE Salt and Straw! So many interesting Classic Los Angeles Flavors including Roasted Strawberry & Toasted White Chocolate, Honey Lavender, Almond Brittle with Salted Ganache, Black Olive Brittle & Goat Cheese, Freckled Mint TCHO-colate Chip, and Dandelion Chocolate Hazelnut Cookies & Cream).

They also offer about 6 new rotating flavors every month! Don’t forget to come back for their Thanksgiving series in November - try the mashed potatoes with gravy or the stuffing! Weird but good!

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Sloan’s Ice Cream with snowcaps!

Sloan’s Ice Cream

• LA Locations: Santa Monica and Woodland Hills

• Website: sloansicecream.com

• Pricing: Moderate price for a scoop and topping!

• Dietary Restrictions: Vegan ice cream options available

• Take-out: Try UberEats, Postmates, Doordash!

SLOAN’S IS GOALS! This place is pink, pretty, and has all the goodies! Not only do they have tons of different flavors of ice cream like Almond Joy, Mom’s Apple Pie, and Chocolate Cookie Cheesecake, but they have baked goods, chocolates, and candy too!

Bring some friends, and I dare you to eat TRACY’S KITCHEN SINK - ultimate sundae with everything including the kitchen sink – 18 scoops of ice cream, all of the deluxe toppings, 4 cookies, 4 brownies, gobs of whipped cream & cherries – all served in a real sink! Best ice cream in Santa Monica!

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SWEET ROSE CREAMERY

• Locations: Mid-city (Beverly near Fairfax), Brentwood, Palisades, Santa Monica

• Pricing: The sundae is the best bang for your buck

• Dietary Restrictions: Dairy-free ice cream options available

• Take-out: Pints and ice cream cakes are available to go!

I’ve loved Sweet Rose Creamery for a long time! Not only do they make their own ice cream in house, they make all their cones and toppings as well! Favorites include: Peanut Butter Fudge, Fresh Mint Chip (so fresh and made from mint extract - also, it’s not green!), Toasted Coconut. Check out their current flavors here: Sweet Rose Creamery Flavors

Ice cream pints, homemade toppings, ice cream cakes, party packs and other frozen treats can be delivered straight to your door through Postmates, Uber Eats, Grubhub, Doordash and Caviar!

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Frozen Rose

WANDERLUST CREAMERY

• Locations: Tarzana, Atwater Village, Venice

• Website: Wanderlust Creamery

• Pricing: Great value for your ice cream!

• Dietary Restrictions: Vegan ice cream options available

• Take-out: Pints are available to go

Wanderlust Creamery is literally my dream ice cream shop, combining my favorite things, ice cream and travel! Their motto is A DESTINATION IN EVERY SCOOP and flavors are amazing concoctions using ingredients from around the world. To give you a taste, you can try flavors like Vegan Sticky Rice Mango inspired by Thailand, Abuelita Malted Crunch inspired by LA, Japanese Neapolitan, Violet Marshmallow inspired by France. Don’t miss out on their Ube cone (made from yams, another weird but good combo) and their monthly flavors: Wanderlust Creamery Monthly Flavors.

Don’t miss them at Smorgasburg LA over the weekends in Downtown LA (when they resume after social distance rules have lifted). Hopefully, they come back this summer in time for Ice Cream Alley!

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MAGPIES

• Locations: Silver Lake and Tarzana

• Website: magpiessoftserve.com

• Pricing: A cone with a topping is decently priced!

• Dietary Restrictions: Vegan soft serve options available

• Take-out: Soft serve in a cup or pints, pies and more! Use Postmates or UberEats!

The owners of Magpies went to a Dairy Queen one day and came up with the idea to make a chef-y soft serve. They hit the nail on the head! Instead of chocolate or vanilla, you can get exquisite flavors such as Malted Milk Chocolate, Sweet Cream, Corn Almond (Vegan - Almond Milk), Brown Sugar Vanilla (Vegan - Oat Milk), Blueberry Pie (Vegan - Oat Milk), or Apple Pie! They even make soft serve pies which were perfect for birthdays at work! All toppings are made in house, including Butterscotch Rice Krispies, Chocolate Covered Honeycomb (Vegan), Brownie Bites (Vegan), and Graham Cracker Streusel - to name a few!

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Brown Sugar Vanilla Bean & Fresh Mint CHip

CARMELA ICE CREAM

• Locations: Mid-city and Pasadena

• Website: carmelaicecream.com

• Pricing: Get a split scoop in a bowl for your best value. The cones are really good too.

• Dietary Restrictions: Vegan ice cream options available

• Take-out: Pints, Quarts, and ice cream sandwiches - Uber Eats and Doordash!

This shop is classy, pretty, and feels like an ice cream parlor. They make all their own flavors (favorites include Brown Sugar Vanilla Bean, Intelligentsia Espresso, Salted Caramel, White Peach Vanilla Bean), and you can smell the fresh waffle cones once you step in the door! See their seasonal flavors here: Carmela Flavors

Get a cone, an ice cream sandwich, or try their delicious coffee, something for everyone! You can even take an ice cream class and make your own ice cream!

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Wild Berry Chocolate Crisp and Malted Milk English Toffee

RORI’S ARTISANAL CREAMERY

• Locations: Santa Monica, Century City, Long Beach (and up the coast)

• Website: rorisartisanalcreamery.com

• Pricing: Get a split scoop in a bowl for your best value. The cones are really good too.

• Dietary Restrictions: Vegan ice cream options available

• Take-out: Pints are available and you can find them in select grocery stores. See their website for more!

Rori’s originates here in California, freshly scooped from Carpinteria! Owner, Rori Trovato, makes all the ice cream, cookies, cones, and candy recipes, and try some of her great flavors like Biscoff, Black Pepper Pistachio, Fresh Mint Patty, Malted Milk English Toffee, Nutella, Peanut Butter Candy Swirl - mix a unique flavor with a classic flavor for the best combo!

Get shakes, floats, homemade cookies, brownies, What the Fudge bars and pints to go here too! They even cater parties, but you have to invite me if you hire them! ;-)

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Peppermint Stick

VAN LEEUWEN ICE CREAM

• Locations: Hollywood, Silverlake, Downtown LA, Culver City, and a Food Truck!

• Website: vanleeuwenicecream.com

• Pricing: More on the expensive side but really creamy exquisite ice cream.

• Dietary Restrictions: LOTS of Vegan ice cream options available

• Take-out: Pints can be delivered nationwide with Goldbelly or locally by delivery service (Doordash, UberEats, etc.)

I first tried Van Leeuwen ice cream in New York many moons ago! I was so excited when they first had a food truck and then shops started to pop up! I love their fun flavors which are pretty classic but mighty tasty: Chocolate Fudge Brownie, Cookies & Cream, Honeycomb, PB Marshmallow Crunch, Pistachio, and Salted Carmel to name a few. There are a lot of vegan options here! Seasonal flavors are also offered here, I love the Peppermint Stick during Winter, right now, keep up with their seasonal flavors here: Van Leeuwen Flavors.

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MILK SHOP

• Locations: Beverly and Silverlake

  • Beverly - 7290 BEVERLY BLVD., LOS ANGELES, CA 90036

  • Silverlake - 1639 SILVER LAKE BLVD., LOS ANGELES, CA 90026

• Website: themilkshop.com

• Pricing: Get an ice cream sandwich!

• Take-out: See their website for their delivery menu which includes cookies, cakes, pints, scoops of ice cream, and ice cream sandwiches

All ice creams and sorbets are made from scratch in their kitchen in LA from locally sourced products! You have to try their ice cream sandwiches! See all the best combinations here: Ice Cream Sandwich Flavors

Best ice cream sandwich combo: Fruity Pebbles, Grasshopper (mint), and California Strawberry - YUM!

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Coffee caramel and red velvet cupcake with sprinkles on top

LITTLE DAMAGE

• Location: Downtown LA - 700 S Spring St, Los Angeles, CA 90014

• Website: littledamage.com

• Pricing: Great price for soft serve. Take a free picture in the photo booth!

• Dietary Restrictions: Dairy-free ice cream options available

• Take-out: take-out is available

This family-owned soft-serve ice cream shop is located in the heart of DTLA, known for its signature charcoal cones with an impressive rotating list of unique flavors. My favorite combo: Coffee caramel and red velvet cupcake with sprinkles on top. The cookies and cream flavor is really good too!

Their trendy ice cream is prepared daily in small batches, using local ingredients supplied by organic dairy farmers. The signature black ice cream cones are naturally colored with activated charcoal, and hand-rolled minutes before you get one.

See our full review here: LITTLE DAMAGE ICE CREAM REVIEW

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McConnell’s Ice Cream - Silver Lake

McCONNELLS FINE ICE CREAMS

• Locations: Downtown LA, Silver Lake, Studio City

• Website: mcconnells.com

• Pricing: Fair pricing for good flavors! I’ll get a pint now and again!

• Dietary Restrictions: Dairy-free Ice Cream Options Available

• Take-out: Pints are available for take-out and delivery. You can also find them in select grocery stores! See their site for more info! Join their Pint of the Month Club! You can get 3 of their best-flavored pints 3 months a year delivered right to your door!

McConnell’s has been serving creative fun flavors to LA since 1949! To this day, it is still family-owned, as the third generation is still scooping divine ice cream. So many great options here: Chocolate Covered Strawberry, Double Peanut Butter Chip, Salted Caramel Chip, Sprinkle Cake, Sea Salt Cream and Cookies, and my absolute favorite: Whiskey Pralines and Cream!

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Supercool Creamery - Entertaining and delicious!

SUPERCOOL CREAMERY

• Location: 4469 Sunset Dr, Los Angeles, CA 90027 - CURRENTLY CLOSED!!!!!!!!

• Website: supercoolcreamery.com

• Dietary Restrictions: Dairy-free Options Available

• Take-out: Use a local delivery service or they deliver certain items nationwide!

With a name like SuperCool, I wasn’t sure what to expect! I was pleasantly surprised when we walked in and the ice cream artists were dressed like performers and put on quite a show! With the magic of liquid nitrogen, the cream I chose turned into ice cream. They have great flavor options such as Key lime with dark rum, Coconut Chocolate Chip, Coffee Toffee, and Berry Sorbet (dairy-free). I loved every moment of my visit here! They also cater events and spike their ice cream! Keep these cool scoops in mind for your next party!

See our full review here: SUPERCOOL CREAMERY REVIEW

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MANHATTAN BEACH CREAMERY

• Location: 1120 Manhattan Ave, Manhattan Beach, CA 90266

• Website: mbcreamery.com

• Pricing: Their Sundae has the best value!

• Dietary Restrictions: Gluten Free Options Available

• Take-out: Use a local delivery service or they deliver certain items nationwide!

Ice cream and ocean views? What could be better during summer in LA?! Check out why Manhattan Beach Creamery is one of the best places for ice cream in Los Angeles! Home of the artisan ice cream sandwich, the Cream'wich ice cream sandwich is a combination of artisan cookies from Katella Bakery, and their signature ice cream. Try the Super Sonic ice cream, a sweet cream taste, filled with lots of sprinkles!

See the full review here: Manhattan Beach Creamery

Manhattan Beach Creamery - Super Sonic Ice Cream

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Cookie Monster Ice Cream Sandwiches

THE BAKED BEAR

• Locations: Hermosa, Burbank, La Canada, USC

• Website: BakedBear.com

• Price and Value: Great price for 2 cookies and a LARGE scoop of ice cream!

• Take-out: Have your sweets delivered from a local delivery service, and make sure you get a dozen cookies!

Love cookies and ice cream? Get the best ice cream sandwiches at the Baked Bear, made fresh to your favorite combination! See my favorite concoction and where to pick up one of these bad boys!

Read the full review here: The Baked Bear

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MOTHERMOO CREAMERY

• Location: Sierra Madre - 17 Kersting Ct, Sierra Madre, CA 91024

• Website: mothermoo.com

• Value: Great value for a scoop!

• Dietary Restrictions: Dairy Free Ice Cream Options Available

• Take-out: Get pies, cookies, cakes, ice cream, and more, delivered to your door (through Postmates). Or you can do a contactless pickup in the alley behind them - it’s not as shady as it sounds!

MotherMoo’s ice cream is made in-store as small-batch, homemade ice cream using locally sourced ingredients, many grown within miles from the scoop shop. Favorite flavors include Salty Chocolate, Dutch Apple Pie Crumble, Pretzel and Caramel, Peppermint Stick, Fresh Coffee, House-made Peppermint Patty. Most interesting flavors: Roasted Fig Leaf, Organic Celery, Fresh Basil, Orange Peel & Szechuan Pepper. See all flavors here: Mothermoo Flavors

Not only do they have phenomenal ice cream, but they also have cookies, pies, and cakes!

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AFTERS ICE CREAM

• Locations: All over Southern California - find one near you!

• Website: aftersicecream.com

• Menu: Afters Flavors

• Value: Ice cream is priced a little higher than most shops (2 scoops for $6.50) however handcrafted ice cream usually is! They also have very pretty colored sprinkles! Worth every penny to me! 

• Take-out: Postmates delivers!

Afters is very trendy ice cream scoop shop with relatable quotes. Afters offers many unique flavors including Cookie Butter and Cookie Monster (it’s blue), also home of the Milky bun, which is a warm glazed bun (donut like) stuffed with ice cream! As they say, “Less talk, more ice cream!” My favorite location is the Venice creamery - ice cream on the beach, how cool is that?

Read the full review here: Afters Ice Cream

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Thanks Give Me a Cookie and Graham Central Station

HANDEL’S HOMEMADE ICE CREAM

• Locations: Northridge, Long Beach

• Website: handelsicecream.com

• Value: SO MANY SCOOPS IN ONE CONE!

• Take-out: Handel’s delivers ice cream anywhere (limited for now), but use Postmates for now!

Great options here - cones, pops, ice cream sandwiches, smoothies, and pints! They even have a Hurricane which is similar to a McFlurry, ice cream blended with mix-in candies!

Lots of fun flavors that differ from store to store and many seasonal options. Huge fan of their Graham Central Station and Thanksgiving flavors! Thanks Give Me a Cookie is basically ice cream with a ton of different kinds of cookies!

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Dark Chocolate and Cookies & Cream

SAFFRON AND ROSE

• Location: West LA - 1387 Westwood Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90024

• Website: saffronroseicecream.com

• Value: Great, a small comes with 2 scoops

• Dietary Restrictions: Vegan Ice Cream Options

• Take-out: Take out and contactless delivery available!

Saffron and Rose serve up Persian style ice cream in Westwood! It’s lower on my list because it has all of those weird flavors like lavender and rose... things that smell amazing but not fragrances I prefer in my ice cream. See all the florals, nutty, and chocolate flavors here: Saffron and Rose flavors

You get 2 scoops even for their smallest size, so I played it safe and went for the dark chocolate (that had brownie bites and walnuts in it) and cookies n cream! The guy at the register judged me for taking my picture and said “Nice picture” in a move out of the way tone. Judge away, I’m doing it for the gram, dude! Oh well, the ice cream was good, though!

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CREAMISTRY

• Locations: Downtown, Hollywood, Woodland Hills, Glendale

  There are many locations throughout California, Arizona, Louisiana, and Texas. Find one near you: Creamistry Locations

• Website/Menu: Creamistry Menu

• Price/Value: I thought it was a little pricy but you get a pretty good-sized serving!

• Dietary Restrictions: Non-dairy ice cream and Gluten-Free items

Creamistry ice cream makes you smarter! Well, you learn a little science lesson about liquid Nitrogen and how to make ice cream with it! Super creamy dense ice cream will fill you up and last a while! They have so many options, everyone will walk away happy!

See our full review here: Creamisty Ice Cream Review

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GO FORTH AND ENJOY NATIONAL ICE CREAM MONTH! TRY ALL THE ICE CREAMS!

Thanks for reading, please leave any thoughts in the comments section below!

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Need more ice cream?

Guide to Kaanapali Beach in Maui, Hawaii: Where to stay, things to do, and best restaurants

Sheraton Maui Kaanapali Beach Resort

Everything you need to know about Kaanapali Beach in Maui, Hawaii: best hotels, what to do, and great restaurants

If you’ve booked your trip to Maui, I’m jealous already! We got engaged, married, and have celebrated our anniversary there every year since 2014! Maui is our favorite place and we ALWAYS stay on Ka’anapali Beach. If it’s your first time or sixth time, this guide will help you navigate the beach to make sure you have the best trip possible!

RELATED POST: How much does it cost to go to Maui? - Itinerary, budget, and more!

Not sure which area is right for you? Our Maui Travel Guide compares Kaanapali, Wailea, and other regions.

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How to get to Kaanapali Beach - Map, Airport Transfers, and Parking Information

The best way to get to Kaanapali Beach from the airport is to rent a car. You’ll probably want to drive around the island at some point, it’s best to have your own vehicle. If you are planning on spending all of your time at the beach, check with your hotel to set up airport transfers. Uber and Lyft are available as well, it’s about $50-ish each way.

We ALWAYS find THE BEST rates through Booking.com. See deals of up to 50% off! You can save a bunch of money if you book a bundle flight+room+rental car! They even have apartments, lodges, and houses you can rent, just like AirBnB or VRBO! By booking through this link, I receive a commission at no additional cost to you! PLEASE support our blog and bookmark this link!

You can always park at a hotel but if you’re just coming for the day, there are a few lots but they are pretty pricy. There are 2 free parking lots but you have to get to them early - one is just before the Sheraton on Kaanapali Pkwy and the other is on Nohea Kai Drive before the Hyatt. See our Google Map for more info!

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Where to Stay on Kaanapali Beach

Here are some of the best resorts on Kaanapali beach! All resorts are literally located right on the beach and walking distance from each other. We often use our travel credit card rewards for FREE nights! Check out this helpful article from Money Magazine to see which card would be best for your needs. 

Sheraton Maui Room Views

Budget-Friendly:

Royal Lahaina Resort - great for your wallet and NO RESORT FEES! Rooms are spacious and a quick trot to the beach. This hotel is located north of Black Rock, so it is typically less crowded, but a bit of a walk to the other hotels.

Kaanapali Beach Club - might need an update, but the rooms are clean and the pool is huge! Located closer to Black Rock.

Mid-Range:

Flamingos and swans at the Hyatt Regency Maui on Kaanapali Beach

Sheraton Maui Resort & Spa - our favorite resort on Maui Kaanapali Beach! Located right in front of Black Rock, which is the best place on the island for snorkeling. See our full review: Sheraton Maui Hotel Review

The Westin Maui Resort & Spa - recently renovated rooms and an adult pool to have some quiet time! One of the best Kaanapali accommodations! There are multiple pools that families can enjoy as well, there’s even a waterslide! Their spa is the ultimate relaxation destination.

Hyatt Regency Maui Resort & Spa - lovely resort with penguins and flamingos (yes, I mean it). The Hyatt also has the best Lu’au on Kaanapali Beach. Their pool is pretty great too.

Condos and club hotels are also available in the area if you are looking to house more people! See booking.com for more options in Kaanapali, HI!

Need help packing? See our Hawaii Packing List for everything you’ll need! Check the weather before you go!

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Top 10 things to do on Maui Kaanapali Beach

Black ROck Jumping

1. Snorkeling at Black Rock Beach

   Black Rock is our FAVORITE place to snorkel! We’ve seen turtles, octopus, rays, and tons of tropical fish! See more snorkel info and our video here: Best Snorkel Spots in Maui 

2. Jump off Black Rock!

   Jump from the top of Black Rock to the plunge into the depths below! Do this at your own risk as it is hard to climb up Black Rock and it is, well, rocky.

3. Go Shopping at Whalers Village

   My favorite shop in Whaler’s Village is Sand People that is like Etsy in person, loaded with coastal decor, souvenirs, clothes, and jewelry. Other shops include Sephora, Honolua, Quiksilver, Kate Spade, and other designers.

Need a snack, beer or wine, souvenirs, macadamia nuts? The ABC Store is the best for all of those things!

Penguins at the Hyatt Regency Maui

4. Visit the Penguins and Flamingos

Yup, you heard that right! At the Hyatt Regency Maui, they have a menagerie of birds all over the resort. In the morning they have a penguin feeding and it’s just the cutest thing! You can hang out with the one-legged pink friends on the other side of the resort.

5. Go to a Lu’au

Drums of the Pacific Lu’au at the Hyatt Regency puts on a great show on Kaanapali Beach! With traditional Polynesian dances and a feast, you’ll be sure to have a great night! The Royal Lahaina Luau, Myths of Maui, will also have you dancing in your seat - it could be the music or the free drinks! Get a great deal on luau tickets with Activity Authority.

6. Have a drink at the pool bar (and maybe even whale watch)

We love to sit at the bar, have a drink, and enjoy the view! If you come between December and March, you are likely to see whales! If you look hard enough, you can usually see the whales come up and spout water. Keep a close eye because after they spout, they usually breach out of the water or you can catch a glimpse of their tales. There are tours you can take to get closer to them, and if you scuba dive or snorkel, you can often hear them!

7. Spa Day at Black Rock Spa

The massages at Black Rock Spa are my favorite. Get hot stones, and enjoy some relaxation! We usually get a basic full body massage for 50 mins (about $130 each), but this last time we went for the 80 mins (about $180) and it was worth every penny. The spa rooms are patio like with natural sunlight peaking from the top, complete with soothing Hawaiian tunes.

Water Activities on Kaanapali BEach

8. Water Activities - Go parasailing, take a surf lesson, rent a jet ski, or go paddle boarding!

You can arrange with your hotel or go to a stand on the beach to get your adventure on! Fly high in the sky and enjoy looking over Kaanapali Beach while parasailing, or skim the water with a surf board! Learn how to surf like a pro with Maui Surfer Girls. You can even learn how to scuba dive right on Kaanapali beach! See related post for scuba: Best Scuba Spots Maui

9. Golf at Kaanapali Golf Courses

You’ll pass this golf course as you arrive and want to take a swing with your club. I don’t know which one but Josh does. You can see the ocean from most holes!

10. Zipline with Skyline Hawaii - Kaanapali Zipline Tours

Just up the hill from the golf course is Kaanapali Zipline Tours! Check-in at the shop, then they will drive you up to the zipline course with breathtaking views - high in the sky! See related post, Best Maui Ziplines, for more!

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Best Restaurants on Kaanapali Beach

Here are a few of our favorites right on the beach that are fan favorites! See our full list here: Best Restaurants near Kaanapali and Lahaina

Monkeypod Kitchen - Kaanapali Beach

1. Monkeypod Kitchen ($$$)

Kaanapali Location: Whalers Village - 2435 Kaanapali Pkwy, Bldg I-1, Lahaina, HI 96761

See our full review: Best Restaurant in Maui: Monkeypod Kitchen

We first discovered Monkeypod in Wailea and were overjoyed when they opened a second location in Whalers Village, Kaanapali! We’ve found that it is the perfect spot for drinks and dinner. Get a Monkeypod Mai Tai with their fabulous honey foam! We love the Wood Roasted Chicken Wings (kiawe-roasted free range chicken, garlic, kula farm rosemary, tzatziki sauce) and the Bulgogi Pork Tacos (handcrafted kimchee, jalapeño, asian pear, sriracha aioli, locally-made corn tortilla). Jalapeño mashed potatoes ARE A MUST. They are green, but don’t let that scare you!

Dessert is a must! We loved the rich Chocolate Cream Pie, but they have other cream pies, such as Banana, available as well. Make a reservation in advance; we used Opentable.

Ice Cream Sandwich at Barefoot Bar

2. Hula Grill/Barefoot Bar ($$$/$$)

Location: Whalers Village - 2435 Kaanapali Pkwy, Lahaina, HI 96761

Located in Whalers Village with outstanding ocean views, these two restaurants are not only owned by the same company, they are connected to each other. Hula Grill is a little more pricey with delicious traditional Hawaiian entrees including many fish dishes (crab, snapper, shrimp) and land dishes (chicken, steak, short rib, emu).

The barefoot bar is more casual ($$) serving burgers, fish and chips, pizza. The fun part about the bar, your feet are in the sand. Usually, they have live music and entertainment. Regardless of which restaurant you try, I love their Mai Tai's which are served in tiki glasses topped with the umbrella!

Also, you MUST have dessert! Try the Hula pie - vanilla or macadamia nut ice cream with an Oreo crumble pie crust, with whipped cream and fudge on top (served at both restaurants)! OR get the ice cream sandwich (pictured). No words on that one other than YUM!

3. Cliff Dive Bar and Grill

Location: Sheraton Maui Resort

Located by the pool, great for lunch or an afternoon snack. Can’t go wrong with their burger or chicken sandwich. At sunset, the cliff diver lights all the torches around the pool and along the top of black rock, then jumps into the water. 

3. Ono Gelato Company ($)

Location: Whalers Village

Try some handmade artisan gelato by the beach! When in Rome… err, or Maui!

More restaurants can be found in our post: Best Restaurants in Maui

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We hope you enjoy Kaanapali Beach as much as we do! It’s the perfect vacation destination for families, couples, or a group of friends. Kaanapali vacations are the best vacations! Hope you didn’t miss our Maui Hotel Map Kaanapali Beach

RELATED POST: How much does it cost to go to Maui in 2021? - Itinerary, budget, and more!

Black Rock Snorkeling with a Turtle

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More Maui posts to help plan your trip:

10 Travel Bloggers & Influencers you should be following on Instagram 2021

I tried a few of those follow for follow groups and now I have a bunch of people I don’t know on my feed! I was looking for those amazing accounts with phenomenal travel photos to help add places to my bucket list. I lean towards accounts with bright colors, with influencers wearing clothes that I want in my wardrobe! That’s the point of being an influencer, right? I’ll give them some fun superlatives too!

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@spiritedpursuit

Followers: 226k

Lee Litumbe started her lifestyle travel blog, Spirited Pursuit, which is filled with guides and information on travel as well as creating content. She’ll teach you her secrets to influencer success!

Follow @Spiritedpursuit to find her on a giant swing in Bali or swimming with turtles in Tanzania!

Superlative: Most Authentic!

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@TheBlondeAbroad

Followers: 557k

Kiki is a beautiful blonde who travels the world managing to find fabulous seaside scapes! She left her corporate job for a life of travel and now has a successful travel blog with travel tips, or even advice on how to be a travel blogger.

Follow @TheBlondeAbroad for far off places and her pup, @goodbaileyboy!

Superlative: Most Popular!

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@thesweetwanderlust

Followers: 13.2k

Brittany is my spirit animal! Her wanderlust is inspiring and her desserts are drool-worthy! Her captions are hilarious and have the best puns!

Follow @thesweetwanderlust for pops of color and sweet treats in your feed!

Superlative: The Sweetest!

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@ticija

Followers: 69k

“That Ginger in a Dress” is her motto and she has a knack for finding the most colorful places in London!

Follow @ticija for her red hair, gorgeous floral dresses, and bright spots in London - It was so gloomy when I went!

Superlative: Best dressed!

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@TravelwithKwen

Followers: 11.8k

Kwen travels the world, but we share the same love for Disney Parks! Most of her destinations are tropical and warm!

Follow @travelwithkwen for dreamy vacations and for a Disney geek out here and there!

Superlative: Most likely to be found with Mickey

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@walltraveled

Followers: 36K+

This is a collection of travelers against - you guessed it - WALLS! Beautiful creative, colorful, street art walls can be seen from around the world on this feed.

Superlative: Best Sense of Street Art

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@icecreamsaroundtheworld_

Followers: 4400

I post ice cream almost every third post, but you can find ice cream from around the world in almost every single post! Sharing is caring, you might even have a chance to be featured using the hashtag #IceCreamAroundTheWorld.

Superlative: Most Likely to have Ice Cream

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@splendid_rags

HOLY BRIGHT COLORS, BATMAN! Leslie only posts the most vibrant backdrops and outfits from around the globe!

Superlative: Most likely to wear bright colors!

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@thecarryonchronicles

Followers: 13.4k

I LOVE Elena’s beautiful dresses and photos! Her preset is beautiful and the pops of color add instant joy to my feed! Her bio literally sums up her feed: Endlessly in search of storybook villages & fairytale moments

Superlative: Most like to find Prince Charming

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@emilyincolors

Followers: 10.8k

Emily is always traveling fabulous places and finding great eats! She has gorgeous clothes and an amazing appetite, sharing just the right amount of sweets! How do you stay so tiny!?

Superlative: Most likely to be a foodie!

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I have a lot to live up to following these ladies! I hope my posts bring light and color into your feed!

Follow us @thesweetestescapes:

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