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The Ultimate Maui Travel Guide (2026): Where to Stay, Eat, & Explore
Planning a trip to Maui? This Ultimate Maui Travel Guide (2026) covers everything you need to know—from where to stay and the best time to visit, to top things to do, restaurants, and real insider tips. Whether you’re traveling with kids, planning a honeymoon or babymoon, or visiting Maui for the first time, this guide breaks down Kāʻanapali vs. Wailea, must-see attractions, itineraries, and planning advice to help you create the perfect Maui vacation.Planning a trip to Maui? This Ultimate Maui Travel Guide (2026) covers everything you need to know—from where to stay and the best time to visit, to top things to do, restaurants, and real insider tips. Whether you’re traveling with kids, planning a honeymoon or babymoon, or visiting Maui for the first time, this guide breaks down Kāʻanapali vs. Wailea, must-see attractions, itineraries, and planning advice to help you create the perfect Maui vacation.
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.
- ✔ 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
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.
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.
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
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.
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!
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.
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:
Island Cream Co - chocolate macadamia nut ice cream is a must!
Maui Gelato - options of gelato, Roselani ice cream, affogato, floats, shakes, mochi ice cream, shave ice, and waffles, you won’t be disappointed.
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!
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
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.
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!
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.
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.
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.
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.
Jeeps are the best Rental Cars in Maui, Hawaii
First-Time Maui Tips and FAQs
Do you need a rental car?
ABSOLUTELY! It is very hard to get around the island without one.
Is Maui expensive?
Yes, but there are many things you can do to cut some costs.
How many days is enough?
4 days at least! I always cry on the way to the airport no matter how long we stay.
What not to skip on your first visit?
SNORKELING is a must! Find a turtle!
What part of Maui is best to stay?
Wailea and Kaanapali are the most popular for first-time visitors.
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.
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.
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 🌴
More Maui Posts:
Maui With Kids: The Ultimate Family Travel Guide 2026
Maui is one of the easiest and most rewarding Hawaiian islands to visit with kids. From calm, swimmable beaches and walkable resort areas to family-friendly hotels, restaurants, and activities, this guide shares everything you need to know to plan a smooth, memorable Maui vacation with toddlers and young kids—based on real family experience.
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
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.
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
🌊 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
🍽️ Best Kid Friendly Restaurants in Maui
Monkeypod is a very toddler friendly restaurant with crayons and free butter noodles for kids 3 and under. It also has great happy hour and my favorite Mai Tai! There are two locations on Maui - Kaaanapali and Wailea!
Barefoot Bar is a fun restaurant where you can eat with your toes in the sand! It is part of Hula Grill but has a separate entrance on the South side of the restaurant. They also have crayons and some good kid food options. Our kid claimed, “it was the best restaurant ever!”
The Ritz’s Burger Shack is a toddler approved restaurant located outside with a big grassy area for kids to run around. It’s also parent approved if you want to hang out and have a boozy milkshake or just watch the waves crash on the shore for a few minutes!
🧃 Easy Snacks for Kids in Maui (That Don’t Melt)
When you’re exploring Maui with kids, having the right snacks on hand can make all the difference. Between beach days, car rides, and long sightseeing stops, you’ll want options that hold up in warm weather and are easy for kids to eat on the go.
These parent-approved snacks travel well around the island and won’t melt or turn messy in your bag:
Gummies
Gummies are lightweight, easy to portion, and a favorite with kids of all ages. They’re ideal for beach bags, stroller pockets, and plane rides since they don’t melt like chocolate snacks.Fruit Snacks
Fruit snacks are great for quick snack breaks while sightseeing or driving around the island. Look for resealable packaging so you can spread snacks out throughout the day without waste.Pouches
Fruit and veggie pouches are especially helpful in Maui’s heat. They’re refreshing, mess-free, and easy for kids to eat while walking or riding in the car. Many are shelf-stable, so refrigeration isn’t an issue until they’re opened.
Love this idea but don’t want to pack all of this? I don’t blame you! Good news is that you can get these as soon as you land at the Target or Costco by the Maui OGG Airport!
💡 Parent Tip: Pack snacks in a small insulated pouch or shaded backpack pocket to keep them out of direct sun, especially during beach days or long drives.
We bring our Wagon instea of a Stroller
Traveling to Maui With Toddlers
Nap-friendly days
With toddlers down to one nap, we would try and get out early, because they were up early anyway, and make it back before naptime or time it where we would be in the car so they could nap.
Stroller walks
There were a lot of stroller walks up and down Kaanapali beach when we had infants and toddlers! We would bring our beach wagon and put both toddlers in for a walk!
Pool days vs adventure days
We would typically alternate pool days and adventure days but most days involved a splash in the pool regardless.
We would even use a night swim as an incentive to eat their dinner.
What to skip with toddlers
The Road to Hana is great but is a longggg day for little ones. It’s essentially a 5 hour (or more) drive so you must plan accordingly to be on the road ALL day. You can break it up with stops but getting to the furthest point is a three hour drive straight there. Even the first stop from Kaanapali or Wailea is about a two hour drive. If you’re only in Maui for a few days this might be a good one to skip unless your kids are a bit older. If you’re pregnant and have nausea, don’t attempt it. I speak from experience.
Haleakala sunrises and sunsets are breathtaking, but don’t go with toddlers or younger.
Sunset cruises are fun but stressful with younger kids that like to run around.
Walking along the kid and stroller friendly Kapalua Coastal Walk in Maui
5-Day Maui Itinerary with Kids
Day 1 Arrival
12p Arrival into OGG, pick up rental car
1p stop at Target, Costco, then pick up Tin Roof
3p Check into Honua Kai Condo
4p 🛍️ Head to Whalers Village for shopping and dinner at Monkeypod (get extra food for fridge). Must order: Chicken Wings, Kalua Pork Pizza, Free Butter Noodles for kids, pie slices to go to eat in room after kids go to bed. Don’t forget to order the best Mai Tai on the island! All of this is on the Happy Hour menu!
6p Back to hotel for bedtime
Day 2 Pool-time and Burgers
5a Kids wake up, make pancakes (and coffee) in room
7a Adult Breakfast pickup (or dine in) at Duke’s
8a Pool opens!
11a Back to room for lunch
12p Naptime
2:30p Drive to Ritz in Kapalua and have Linner at Burger Shack (it’s a big meal to fill up on). Must order: burger and milkshake
4p Explore Ritz and Kapalua or go to DT Fleming beach
6p Back to Hotel for Bedtime
Pipiwai Trail With Baby in Carrier
Day 3 Road to Hana Adventure
5:30a Kids wake up - make more pancakes for everyone (and another pot of coffee)
6:30a Drive the Road to Hana
8a Stretch legs at Banana Bread Stop
9a Arrive at Kīpahulu Visitor Center which is part of Haleakala National Park where you can explore the Oheo Gulch Pools, Pipiwai Trail (Bamboo Forest), and Waimoku Falls
11a Eat a packed lunch or drive to the Food Trucks in Hana
1p Stop at Wainapanapa Beach (Black Sand Beach) - make a reservation ahead of time.
3p Drive back to hotel
5p Dinner at hotel or pick up something on the way back
6p Bedtime
Day 4 - Pool and Luau
6a Kids wake up
7a Breakfast at Slappy Cakes or The Gazebo
8a Kapalua Bay for beach time, maybe try the coastal walk
11a Back to room for lunch
12p Naptime
2:30p Quick Pool Play
7p Bedtime
Day 5 - Last Swim and Depart
6:30a Kids Wake Up
7:30a Breakfast at Duke’s
8:30a Take turns with your partner packing
10:30a Drive to Airport (and cry the whole way)
Sticker Tape Road and Travel Magnatiles keep them entertained in the hotel room
What to Pack for Maui With Kids
I think giving a list of what not to pack is a shorter list because we bring almost everything! One thing I will advise is there is a Costco and a Target by the airport so make your Target order for pickup before your flight takes off so it’s ready for you when you land. You can always Instacart Costco or just head in for free snacks.
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
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.
More Maui Posts:
A Curated Christmas in Napa: A Luxury 3-Day Guide to St. Helena & Yountville
Forget the summer crowds—there is a secret, sparkling magic to Napa Valley in December that feels like stepping directly into a Hallmark movie. From waking up to vineyard views by your private fire pit at the Alila, to standing in awe of the 36-foot wine barrel Christmas tree at Beringer, this is the 'cozy season' at its absolute finest. Whether you’re chasing the legendary English muffins at Model Bakery or sipping Cabernet at a Michelin-starred lunch at Auberge du Soleil, St. Helena and Yountville offer a sophisticated holiday escape that truly shines once the vines go dormant. If you’re looking for the ultimate 40th birthday itinerary or simply the brightest town in California, here is how to spend a curated, festive three days in the heart of wine country.
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.
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.
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)
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.
Please note this is not a sponsored post and based on my own personal experience, all thoughts are my own.
How about another sip! See all Napa related posts or check these out:
How Much Our Maui Trip Cost (Real Prices + What We’d Do Again)
Is Maui expensive? 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.
Room views from Papakea Resort - Maui, Hawaii
Is Maui Expensive? Here’s What Our Trip Actually Cost
Maui has a reputation for being expensive — and honestly, that reputation isn’t totally wrong. But after traveling to Maui for over a decade, we’ve learned exactly where the money goes, what’s worth the splurge, and what we’d happily skip next time.
In this post, we’re sharing what our Maui trip actually cost, broken down by flights, hotel, rental car, food, and activities. This isn’t a shoestring “budget Maui” guide — it’s a realistic, mid-range trip cost breakdown based on our personal experience.
If you’re wondering how much a Maui vacation really costs, whether it’s “worth it,” or how to plan your trip without constant sticker shock, this guide will give you a clear, honest picture before you book.
Is $2000 enough for a week in Hawaii? Scroll down for a full cost breakdown, plus what we’d change to spend more — or less — on a future trip.
💰 How Much Our Maui Trip Cost
Trip length: 5 nights
Travelers: 2 adults
Style: Mid-range (not budget, not luxury)
| Category | Cost |
|---|---|
| ✈️ Flights | $1035 |
| 🏨 Hotel | $1020 |
| 🚗 Rental Car | $375 |
| 🍽 Food & Drinks | $680 |
| 🎟 Activities | $467.90 |
| 🛍 Miscellaneous | $252 |
| Total Trip Cost | ~$4000 |
Average cost per day: ~$1000
Total cost per person: ~$2000
This Maui trip cost breakdown reflects real prices we paid and gives a realistic picture of what a mid-range Hawaii vacation costs.
Related Post: We have the ULTIMATE MAUI TRAVEL GUIDE - where to stay, best things to do and more!
Travel and Lodging Expenses
Getting to Maui can be a challenge depending on where you live. Luckily we fly direct from LAX to OGG.
Airline Ticket - United LAX-OGG roundtrip: $350 each (average)
Extra Legroom: $150 each
Checked Baggage: $35 (average price)
Total for air travel for the 2 of us: $1035
How to Save on Flights:
Use points! Chase Sapphire Card offers 1 to 1 points for miles on most airlines. Alaska Airlines Credit Cards also has a good companion pass offer, to purchase one ticket and your companion flies for $150.
Pack light! We didn’t end up checking our bags and brought two carry-ons instead. Don’t forget these PACKING ESSENTIALS
Where to Stay and How to Get Around
Car Rental (Jeep Wrangler): $375 for 5 days (including travel days)
You pretty much need a rental car since the island is so spread out. Uber is available, but not ideal for stops and getting around.
Condo Rental (tax and cleaning fee included): $170 night plus taxes and cleaning fee - $1020 for a 1 bedroom for 4 nights. $17 resort fee includes parking and WiFi
There are a variety of places to stay in Maui from 3-star to 5-star hotels or some sort of Airbnb/VRBO/vacation rental.
Total Travel and Lodging for 2 adults for 4 nights: $2545
Itinerary, Activities, and Food for 4 Days in Maui
There are SOO many ways to spend your days in Maui! We stay on LA time, so we typically go to bed around 9p and are up by 6a! Here’s how we spent the first 4 full days safely and socially distant as much as possible in Maui:
Day 1
7:00am: Uber to the airport $35
8:00am: Water at the airport - 2 large Dasani $7.78
8:30am: United flight departs LAX for Maui (OGG)
11:30am: Arrive in Maui; Pick-up Rental Car
12:30pm: Pick-up lunch from Tin Roof and eat along the beach
Tin Roof: 360 Papa Pl Ste 116, Kahului, HI 96732 Order ahead on website
Pork belly plate, chicken plate, babinga cake = $40
Beach: Papalaua Wayside Park Beach: 22 Honoapiilani Hwy, Wailuku, HI 96793 - Free parking along the beach
3:00pm: Check-in to hotel/condo
4:00pm: Grab snacks at Times Market- prosciutto, cheese, crackers, drinks - $35.18
5:30pm: Scuba dive - twilight and night dive with Extended Horizons $189/person with taxes $427.90 + $40 tip
We did a twilight and night dive with Dave at Black Rock and saw a ton of fish, lobsters, turtles, nudibranchs, and even a shark!
8:00pm: Eat leftover Tinroof for dinner
Total Day 1: $ 585.86
Related Post: Best Restaurants in Maui, Hawaii
Merriman’s Mai Tai
Day 2
7:00am: Breakfast at Java Jazz breakfast to go and eat at Honolua Bay overlook
Address: 3350 Lower Honoapiilani Rd, Lahaina, HI 96761
Call ahead to order - (808) 667-0787
Omelette with potatoes and bread, pancakes and bacon, juice = $38.55 +tip $45
8:30am: Hike Waihee Ridge Hiking Trail
Address: Kahekili Hwy, Wailuku, HI 96793
Drive along north shore to the trailhead. Parking is free but get there early for a good spot. The view stays pretty much the same as you hike up, you just are higher in elevation. It was a nice sunny hike that took us about 2 hours round trip, over 2 miles, and almost 1500 ft in elevation per my Apple Watch. Lots of parking, easy in and out, and porta-potties.
PACK: Drinking water, snacks, towels, hiking shoes
1:00pm: Pick-up lunch from Aloha Braised Food Truck on the way back from the hike!
Address: 58 Kupuohi St, Lahaina, HI 96761 *Only open on weekdays.
Get Volcano chicken plate and fries to share (since we’re having an early dinner) = $35
1:45pm: RELAX - swim in ocean/pool, read a book
4:30pm: Merriman's Kapalua dinner at sunset (check times for sunset and arrive an hour before)
Address: 1 Bay Club Pl, Lahaina, HI 96761
First come, first served. Get in line at 4:30p to get a table to watch the sunset or book a reservation ahead of time for their pre-fix menu in the open-air dining room. GET A MAI TAI!
Drinks, steaks, and dessert for 2 adults = $250
Total Day 2: $ 330.00
For just $3 get our Budget and Itinerary Template to plan your own Maui trip! Sample and packing list included!
Day 3
7:00am: Pick-up breakfast at The Bakery Lahaina $25
Address: 991 Limahana Pl, Lahaina, HI 96761
Just opened! Grab some donuts and pastries!
7:15am: Stop and get gas! There aren’t a lot of gas stations along the Road to Hana so fill up before you go. $30
8:00am: Drive along the ROAD TO HANA!
This is a FULL day activity! There are many options to choose from! See our post and try our Complete Road to Hana Guide for tips on the best stops, parking, food, lodging, and more! COMPLETE ROAD TO HANA GUIDE $7
Free to drive, but parking and some activities have costs. For two people, I’d budget approx $60 for parking, snack stops, and activities.
1:00pm: Stop for lunch in Hana Town, we like the food trucks, especially the burrito and shave ice trucks = $35
2:00pm: Continue along the Road to Hana Head back before it gets dark as the road isn't lit well at night.
7:00pm: Pick-up Dinner from Maui Brew Co
Address: 4405 HI-30 Ste 217, Lahaina, HI 96761
After a long day, you might want to call and order some food and brews to go to eat back at the room!
Chicken wings, nachos with pulled pork, 3 32 oz beers $75 + tip
Total Day 3: $ 250.00
For just $3 get our Budget and Itinerary Template to plan your own Maui trip! Sample and packing list included!
Kaanapali Beach by the Hyatt - Maui, Hawaii
Day 4
8:00am: Pick-up breakfast at Island Press Coffee
Address: 2580 Kekaa Dr STE 104, Lahaina, HI 96761
You can’t go wrong with an egg, cheese, and bacon croissant along with a Mac nut latte! They also have other croissant variations as well as other pastries (try the crumb cake). Take to eat on Kaanapali Beach! = $40
9:00am: Snorkel Black Rock
Address: 2605 Kaanapali Pkwy, Lahaina, HI 96761
Located in front of the Sheraton Resort, you can find turtles, sharks, octopuses, beautiful tropical fish along the reef on Black Rock. To be safe these days, you might want to bring your own. Buy a snorkel set on Amazon and send it to the hotel! Approx $45 per snorkel set = $90
1:30pm: Freshen up and have prosciutto, cheese, and crackers purchased from the market
1:45pm: Relax - swim in ocean/pool, read a book
5:30pm: Dinner at Sale Pepe (Best Italian food and pizza on Maui)
Address: 878 Front St #7,8, Lahaina, HI 96761
Order ahead online. We ordered 2 pizzas and a pasta dish and got 3 meals out of it for the 2 of us. Our favorite pizza was the Tomato, Fior di Latte, Red Onion, Pecorino, Maui Cattle Co. Meatballs Pizza = $65 (tip included)
Total Day 4: $ 195.00
Kaanapali Beach at Sunset - Maui, Hawaii
Travel Day
Depending on what time your flight leaves, you might have time for ONE more activity! Here’s a suggestion:
8:00am: Hawaiian Village Coffee
Address: 4405 HI-30, Lahaina, HI 96761
Pick-up coffee and some to-go breakfast foods = $30
8:30am: Quick Hike or Snorkel around Kapalua Bay
Address: Kapalua Coastal Trail, Lahaina, HI 96761
We're always so sad to leave but try and get one last hurrah in before our flight!
11:30am: Pick-up tacos for lunch at TaquerEATa Food Truck
I had the chicken fajita which was amazing! We also made a few build your own breakfast tacos with a combination of egg, cheese, bacon, and pork! There are lots of salsa options from mild to hot to complete your perfect taco. Total for 4 hearty tacos = $30. We took them to eat at a park along the beach!
11:35am: Get gas in the rental car while waiting for your tacos! $30 to fill up the tank.
2:30pm United flight departs Maui (OGG) for LAX
Pick-up food or snacks for flight; Charge electronics; Download movies to iPad
Total Travel Day: $ 90.00
Total for Trip for 2 (4 nights, 5 days): $3,839.86
For just $3 get our Budget and Itinerary Template to plan your own Maui trip! Sample and packing list included!
Ready to travel again? Book a trip to Maui, Hawaii! Not sure how much to save or what to bring? Plug in numbers to our excel budget template and calculate your trip for up to 4 nights and 5 days! Start planning your trip by entering info into our itinerary template so you’re guaranteed to have the perfect trip!
See our samples for safe, socially distant activities and restaurant ideas!
As a bonus, we’ve thrown in a packing list with some of our favorite items!
Still too expensive? Here are a few ways to save while in Maui:
Buy food, coffee, and beverages at the supermarket to make your own meals. Having a full kitchen at a condo is a plus!
Don’t rent a Jeep Wrangler - we love it, but it’s on the higher end for rentals. You’ll probably save on gas too!
Don’t check bags and don’t pay for extra legroom. Airline credit cards might give you benefits such as free bags or use points for the extra legroom upgrade.
Check out what your condo rental has - boogie boards, surfboards, snorkel gear, beach chairs, etc. They might even offer tennis, shuffleboard, cornhole, and other free resort activities.
Go for 3 nights, take the first flight in the morning for arrival into Maui, and a red-eye home! This gives you about 4 days and 3 nights, but that all depends on your flights, of course!
Please note this is not a sponsored post and based on my own personal experience, all thoughts are my own.
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More Maui Travel Tips and Advice:
10 Reasons Why Outrigger Honua Kai Resort & Spa is the Ultimate Maui Family Vacation Rental
We’ve stayed at nearly every type of accommodation in Maui over the last 10 years, and Outrigger Honua Kai Resort & Spa remains our favorite! Discover why this North Kaanapali property is the perfect choice for your next trip, offering the spacious luxury of a full VRBO/Airbnb condo—complete with kitchens and large lanais—alongside all the best resort amenities, like a massive pool area, direct beach access, and Duke's Beach House. Whether you're planning a trip for a large family or a couple's getaway, our detailed review covers everything you need to know before you book your stay at this incredible Maui gem.
Honua Kai Resort - The Maui Condo That Feels Like a Full Luxury Resort
Honua Kai Resort & Spa Review: The Maui Condo That Feels Like a Full Luxury Resort
With over 10 years of annual visits to Maui, Hawaii, and staying at a variety of places, Honua Kai Resort & Spa is our favorite place to stay! We’ve stayed there more than 5 times now, the first time was a month long stay before baby, the second stay was with baby and family (8 people in a 3 bedroom), in-laws and us with our 2 kiddos, and last few stays were just the 4 of us in a one bedroom. Looking for the best Airbnb or VRBO rental in Maui? Honua Kai is great for families, couples, or a friend-cation, it even accommodates large groups.
Honua Kai is a condominium resort complex on Ka'anapali Beach. The decision you need to make is whether to book a condo through the on-site property manager, Outrigger, or through an independent property management company or owner.
We typically like to book through Maui Resort Rentals: https://www.mauiresortrentals.com/rental/honua-kai-hokulani-538#gallery-1
We can find great prices, amazing units, and we love the amenities and service they provide!
If you’re still deciding where to stay, our Ultimate Maui Travel Guide breaks down the best areas and resorts across the island.
Here are 10 excellent reasons why we would go back again and again…
3-Bedroom Condo at Honua Kai - Ocean Decor
The resort feeling is real!
The giant pool area, location next to the ocean, general store/smoothie/coffee shop, and spa on premises, makes a perfect vacation. Honestly, it felt like staying at a hotel except the room was a suite with a full kitchen, washer/dryer, but no housekeeping service. We don’t typically have our room made up anyway so it was perfect. If you want housekeeping daily you can book through Outrigger, you just won’t be able to pick which unit you want.
Honua Kai Resort & Spa is my favorite option when traveling with babies, toddlers, and or kids! Having a full kitchen and a washer and dryer is so handy as you never know what mess they’ll make!
Speaking of kids and toddlers, check out my top 10 things that I bring for every vacation with the kiddos! You won’t want to miss these toys or snacks: https://www.thesweetestescapes.com/blog/10-things-toddler-travel
More Coastal Decor at Honua Kai Condo
2. Lots of room combos for any family size.
There are studios, 1 bedrooms, 2 bedrooms and 3 bedrooms. The 1 bedroom was perfect for us so I could work in one room and there was still somewhere for Josh to go watch TV or sit on the patio. We stayed in a 3 bedroom when Josh’s family met us in Maui, Room 351 is gorgeous with ocean views and has a cute coastal theme!
Book through Maui Resort Rentals for great service and a great price. Be sure to consider what pool you may be visiting the most or if you want to be near stairs or elevators for convenience. You can also check out the views of each room on the website so you know exactly what you’ll be looking at (mountain or ocean view).
Maui Resort Rentals: https://www.mauiresortrentals.com/rental/honua-kai-hokulani-538#gallery-1
Honua Kai Bedroom 1
Honua Kai Bedroom 2
Honua Kai Bedroom 3
Room views from our Honua Kai 3 bedroom balcony
3. The patios at Honua Kai are amazing!
The patios are large and where we spent most of our time in our room when we weren’t sleeping! We had all meals out there and I even worked (WFH = Work From Hawaii) out there for most days. Depending on which side of the building you’re on, you might get a sunrise or sunset, or both! I enjoyed having coffee in the morning and watching the whales breach the surface. Whales are only seen late October-March.
October is also a relatively good month to book for less crowds and cheaper prices (compared to spring/summer)! See more great reasons to book in October: https://www.thesweetestescapes.com/blog/maui-october
Outrigger Honua Kai Water Slide in Pool
4. The Pool!
The pool area at Honua Kai is like a resort, complete with water slide, lazy river type pool (it doesn’t really flow but you can walk/swim it), splash pad and 1/2 foot kiddie pools! Lots of chairs and areas to lounge poolside.
There are even servers that come by to bring drinks and food from Duke’s so you can have a Mai Tai and Hula Pie at the pool!
We rented a cabana that was big enough for our family party of 8 to hang out in. If you pick the right cabana, you can even have a private pool entrance!
Honua Kai has an Adults Only Pool
5. Beach Access
The beach is also right in front of the hotel and because we booked our room with Maui Resort Rentals, we had Tommy Bahama chairs and an umbrella provided in the room and ready to use.
Note: not all rooms have umbrellas.
There is a paved walking path that is just before the sand so that you can walk along to the neighboring properties or even all the way to Black Rock and Kaanapali! It’s about a mile and a half to Whaler’s Village.
Maui Resort Rentals: https://www.mauiresortrentals.com/rental/honua-kai-hokulani-538#gallery-1
Hoola Spa Closed at Outrigger Honua Kai in October 2025
6. The Spa!
It wouldn’t be called Honua Kai Resort & spa without the spa!
The Ho’ōla spa on premises was the perfect for my 90 minute massage! There aren’t a lot of bells and whistles to this place like Burke Williams, but you have a private room with an excellent massage therapist! They do have showers and lockers for your post relaxation needs.
UPDATE: the Hoola Spa closed October 2025! I do recommend the Sheraton’s Spa!
7. Whaler’s General Store
Not only is there a convenience store but there are also baristas and smoothie-ologists. Ok, I made the smoothie-ologist word up, but they make good, fresh smoothies!
Their mac nut latte is the perfect start to any day (or afternoon)!
There was another coffee shop on the property but it closed about a year ago.
8. Gym
There’s also a really nice gym, though I prefer to go for a run out on the paved path along the beach!
9. Hotel Treatment
There is valet service, as well as bellhops, like a true resort. They are super helpful for guests or checking-in.
If you’re looking for adventure, there’s even a concierge to help you book excursions!
Hula Pie at Duke’s is a MUST have!
10. Duke’s Beach House Maui
Between the pool and the ocean you will find a famous restaurant called Duke’s!
Why is Duke’s so special? Well, of course it has to do with ice cream! The Hula Pie is a must - Macadamia nut ice cream with a cookie crust topped with fudge, whipped cream and more macadamia nuts!
They are open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner!
May I recommend the breakfast burrito and pork Benedict for breakfast!
See all of our favorite restaurants here: https://www.thesweetestescapes.com/blog/10-best-restaurants-maui-hawaii
Aloha and Until Next Time
After all these years and all those different stays—from a romantic month-long trip to fun family reunions—it’s clear why Honua Kai Resort & Spa holds the top spot on our list of Maui accommodations. It truly offers the best of both worlds: the spacious convenience of a fully-equipped vacation rental paired with the luxurious amenities of a high-end resort. Whether you’re sipping coffee on the expansive patio while watching whales breach, floating near the epic pool complex, or enjoying a slice of Hula Pie at Duke's, Honua Kai Resort & Spa creates the kind of effortless, relaxing vacation that keeps you coming back for more. So, if you’re looking for a perfect home base for your next West Maui adventure, stop scrolling through listings and book your suite. We'll probably see you there!
This is not a sponsored post, I genuinely like Honua Kai and Maui Resort Rentals. For the record, I like ice cream more.
Hotel Review: InterContinental the Clement Monterey by IHG
Ready for a hotel stay that's equal parts grown-up zen and toddler-approved fun? We're spilling all the tea (and Nespresso!) on the InterContinental the Clement Monterey. From surprisingly spacious rooms with secret zen gardens to a jellyfish-inspired lobby staircase and a prime location next to the Monterey Bay Aquarium, find out why this hotel is a family favorite for all the quirky, comfy reasons. Get ready for gourmet breakfasts, gigantic bathrooms, and just enough space to stash your emergency juice boxes!
InterContinental the Clement Monterey by IHG Entrance and Valet
InterContinental Clement Monterey: Where Grown-Up Zen Meets Toddler-Friendly Fun!
Address: 750 Cannery Row, Monterey, CA 93940
Remember those glorious, kid-free days when you'd waltz into a swanky hotel, sip fancy cocktails, and just exist? Yeah, neither do I. But fear not, fellow parent warriors! We recently revisited the InterContinental the Clement Monterey by IHG – first as carefree adults, and then as a tag-team duo with two energetic toddlers in tow. And guess what? Both experiences were pure magic! (Well, as magical as it gets when you're traveling with tiny humans.)
The Clement Monterey Bridge over cannery row
Location, Location, Location: Where Everything's Practically at Your Fingertips!
If you're all about convenience (and who isn't when wrangling little ones?), the Clement Monterey's location is practically a superhero! Nestled right on the breathtaking Monterey Bay, this elegant hotel is literally a two-minute stroll from the bustling charm of Cannery Row, where you can find everything from quirky shops to delicious eateries. Feeling a bit more adventurous? Fisherman's Wharf, with its clam chowder delights and barking sea lions, is just a mile away.And for those who dream of pristine greens and ocean views, the iconic Pebble Beach Golf Links is a mere six miles down the road. But the real cherry on top for families? You're literally steps away from the magnificent Monterey Bay Aquarium! Prepare for your tiny marine biologists to lose their minds (in the best possible way, of course).
Fireplace and orchids in Lobby at the Clement Monterey
The Lobby: Where Grandeur Meets Giggle-Inducing Details
First impressions? The lobby at the Clement Monterey is a whole vibe. The check-in desk is conveniently tucked away with the elevators just across the hall (super handy for the hotel hosts, but also for you when your toddlers are doing their "let's push all the buttons" routine). But the real magic happens just around the corner.
There's this absolutely gorgeous area with a cozy fireplace and comfy couches. It's the perfect spot to sip your Nespresso (from your room, naturally) and watch the water, patiently wait for your significant other to finally emerge from the bathroom, or even, as we discovered, have an impromptu pizza party with your tiny humans!
Off the lobby was a patio with tables and chairs, some even had firepits, AND best of all…CORNHOLE! It was entertainment for at least 20 minutes and a place for the kiddos to run around. We even saw whales in the distance and otters below the deck.
Outdoor patio Monterey Bay view
But my absolute favorite part of the entire hotel? The staircase just off the back of the lobby. It's a total showstopper! Inspired by the nearby aquarium, there's this incredible fixture that looks like a giant jellyfish gracefully changing colors. And with the shimmering lights, you genuinely feel like you're underwater. It's quirky, it's mesmerizing, and it's definitely worth a photo op (or three!).
Undersea scape Light art staircase at the InterContinental Clement MONTerey Bay
Your Room: Where Spaciousness Meets Serenity (Seriously!)
Spacious Gust Rooms at the Intercontinental Monterey Bay
Prepare to have your mind (and your claustrophobia) blown! The guest rooms here are so ridiculously spacious, you could probably host a small-scale toddler dance party without anyone tripping over furniture. Those high ceilings and massive windows aren't just for show; they let in all the good vibes and keep those "walls closing in" feelings at bay. Some rooms even have fireplaces!
And then there's the zen corner. No, really. They've got a tiny bonsai tree and a little Zen sand garden to help you achieve peak relaxation. Because after a day of chasing toddlers, who doesn't need a moment of inner peace? Plus, the fridge/mini-bar is just big enough to stash a few emergency juice boxes or that leftover gourmet burrito you snuck from breakfast. Priorities, right?
Nespresso Machine in Monterey Bay IHG Hotel Room!
But my absolute favorite touch? The Nespresso machine! Look, I love my Keurig, but a Nespresso in a hotel room? That's next-level adulting. Say goodbye to sad, watery hotel coffee and hello to liquid gold that'll help you conquer another day of toddler adventures.
Ginormous Bathroom at the Clement Monterey Bay
Shower in Monterey Bay Intercontinental
Oh, and the bathroom? It's ginormous! We're talking separate shower and a tub big enough to actually soak in (if your kids ever let you). And the towels were large bath sheets and felt like brand-new, fluffy, warm hugs after a long day. Most hotel towels are stiff and small. The body products smell delightful without making you feel like you just bathed in a perfume factory.
Mini Bar and Fridge
Mini Bar & Fridge: A Treasure Chest (Mostly) for Your Tiny Treasures
Alright, let's talk mini bar. In a world full of sad, empty hotel fridges, the Clement Monterey decided to be different. They actually had snacks and drinks! (Gasp!) Now, don't get me wrong, it's not a full-blown grocery store, but there was enough wiggle room to stash a few of your own emergency juice boxes or, you know, that leftover gourmet burrito from breakfast. Because priorities.
The Outdoor Pool at the Monterey Bay InterContinental
Pool & Fitness: More Like a (Very Pretty) Pond and a Spa for Grown-Ups!
Okay, let's be honest, the "pool" is more like a charming, oversized fountain that could comfortably fit about four adults (or, let's be real, two adults and a handful of splashy toddlers). But hey, it's pretty AND WARM! It's located on the second floor, right across from the fitness center, which means you can pretend you're going to work out, then sneak over to the pool for a quick dip instead. The spa, however, is a different story – it's big enough for six adults to soak their worries away. Just imagine!
The Spa at the InterContinental Monterey Bay
The C Restaurant Dining Room
The C Restaurant + Bar: Where Tiny Hands Meet Gourmet Delights
This place is seriously cute and upscale, with stunning views overlooking the bay. We hit them up for both breakfast and dinner, and let me tell you, everything was delicious! Beyond the typical breakfast fare, they've got some intriguing seafood breakfast options and a gourmet breakfast burrito that'll make your taste buds sing.
And for the little ones? They have a kids' menu! My tiny food critics devoured their pancakes – four fluffy, palm-sized pancakes each. Because apparently, little hands need big pancake portions.
Now, for the main event: dessert. Because, of course, we had dessert. We indulged in the Milk & Honey Toast ($18), which was basically buttery brioche, dreamy milk ice cream, crunchy honeycomb candy, and a dollop of strawberry guava jam. And then there was The Chocolate Bar ($18), a decadent symphony of chocolate ganache, peanut butter crunch, salted caramel, sesame brittle, and a sprinkle of Maldon Salt. Did I take pictures of them in the bathroom because the tots were finally sleeping? You bet your sweet tooth I did!
The Chocolate Bar ($18), a decadent symphony of chocolate ganache, peanut butter crunch, salted caramel, sesame brittle, and a sprinkle of Maldon Salt
Milk & Honey Toast ($18), buttery brioche, dreamy milk ice cream, crunchy honeycomb candy, and a dollop of strawberry guava jam
There is also a full spa if you want to get your massage on. Mama didn’t have time this trip, but next time will be a different story. Hubs can play Pebble Beach as long as Mom gets a spa day!
So, whether you're looking for a peaceful escape or a fun-filled family adventure, the InterContinental the Clement Monterey manages to pull off both with quirky charm and undeniable comfort. Ready to book your next Bay Area escape?
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!
The back of the hotel
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Toddler Friendly Guide and Itinerary for Spring and Summer in Lake Tahoe
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!
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!
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!
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
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.
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.
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
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 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.
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!
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.
If you liked this post please share it on your favorite social media site using the Share button below because we’d love to get the word out! Feel free to pin this to your favorite Pinterest board:
Things to do in Summer in Lake Tahoe with a Toddler
Read more about Lake Tahoe in these posts:
Packing Checklist and Must Haves for Traveling with a Baby 2025
Traveling with a baby? What should I pack? What do I need? Here’s everything you need when traveling with a baby from strollers that fit in an overheard compartment to the best travel bed to get babies to sleep in hotel rooms!
Baby Travel Essentials
Make Traveling with a Baby Easier in 2025
Babies are so small yet need so many things! Traveling isn’t as easy as just packing a small bag for the weekend when bringing a little one. Whether you’re flying or driving, here are some handy tips and a packing list for what to pack and travel hacks for infants 6 months+!
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!
Shop our Amazon list for all things listed below!
Related post: See all things need for baby from birth to 12 months in this Baby Must Haves List
Ergobaby Metro+ Stroller - best travel stroller
Car Seats and Strollers
If you are driving, you’ll already have your car seat (we love our Graco 4Ever DLX car seat).
If you’re flying I recommend a much lighter car seat like the Graco SnugRide 35 Lite LX Infant Car Seat that doesn’t need a base and can still be strapped in by the seat belt. It only weighs about 7 pounds and helps protect rear-facing infants 4-35 lb and up to 32". You might not need the car seat on the plane which you can gate check it, but you may need a car seat once you land to get to your hotel or Grandma’s house. If you are gate checking, just make sure to grab a tag from the gate host before you board and I recommend this Gorilla Grip car seat gate check cover for it that can also be worn as a backpack! It also packs into a small handy pouch!
We absolutely love our Uppababy Vista stroller but it is a monster to travel with! We bought the Ergobaby Metro+ stroller which compacts nicely into the overhead compartment of an airplane or the trunk of a car. The stroller weigh 16.9 pounds, holding up to 50 pounds or 50” (ages 0-4 typically) in the seat and up to 20 pounds in the carriage below. We also hang the diaper bag on the handles and if it’s not too heavy, the stroller won’t tip over. The wheel suspension is great and work well on a variety of surfaces, pretty impressive for being so lightweight.
We liked the Ergobaby stroller compared to the Baby jogger.
Food and Breastfeeding
Baby’s first flight was when he was 8 months old, so he was starting to eat solids but more solely relying on breast milk than food. We packed a thermal lunch box that had reusable ice packs and packed extra ziplock bags to get ice at a restaurant or on the plane when the packs melted.
When going through TSA, tell them you have breast milk and they may have you put in a separate bin along with baby wipes, so have that ready. In Syracuse, they scanned the milk and opened the bottles and didn’t properly secure one so it slowly leaked everywhere. 😩 Always triple check the bottles and flip them upside down to make sure they aren’t leaking.
During take-off and landing, it’s recommended to feed the baby a bottle or breastfeed. The sucking helps with the pressure in altitude change. I sat in the window seat so there was a little more privacy.
We also packed teething crackers which was entertainment for 20 mins and a snack. Also, your water cup could be the best new toy your baby has ever played with. 😂
If baby is 9 months or over one year old, you’ll want to pack either baby food that doesn’t have to be refrigerated or a thermal lunchbox full of food (and maybe even a sandwich for Mom and Dad). Don’t forget to pack a bib, spoon, bowls, or plates!
We are into baby led weaning and so when baby was 10 months old, I packed a steak knife, spoon, foldable measuring cup, paper towels, small trash bags, baby safe soap, and small cutting board. The steak knife would need to be checked and I would prep as much food as possible so you can check all of these items. I put Mrs Meyers soap in a travel bottle to wash breast pump parts and baby food containers.
If you’re driving, same situation as above, only we packed a small cooler.
Shop our Amazon list for all these things in one place!
SlumberPod is a must have for traveling with a baby!
Sleeping and Travel Crib
Most hotels will have a pack n play but it’s not always guaranteed, so make sure you call ahead. We typically bring ours as it’s the best travel crib if we’re driving and must bring the SlumberPod!
The SlumberPod is a blackout tent that goes over the pack-n-play to help keep the light out and allows you to sneak around the hotel room without baby seeing you. We always bring the Hatch too for white noise but you can always use an iPhone or iPad for that.
Related post: See all things need for baby from birth to 12 months in this Baby Must Haves List
Deuter Baby Carrier for hikes
Best Baby Carrier
We have several baby carriers that all have their own purposes. However, we have 2 specifically for travel:
For hikes and outdoorsy events, we like the Deuter Kid Comfort Active carrier. It weighs just over 5 pounds by itself and is perfect for carrying around your precious cargo. Baby’s first trip was when he was 9 months old and about 20 pounds and it holds up to 35 pounds which is the size of a 4 year old. Its an odd size so it’s a little harder to pack than our other carriers. The benefit is that it has pockets and space for your stuff, so you can carry other things in the carrier such as water bottles or snacks!
If you’re looking for something smaller and compact, we also have the Infantino Flip Advanced 4-in-1 Carrier which is convertible where you can have baby face-in and face-out or wear front and back for newborns and older babies 8-32 lbs. It’s super lightweight and very breathable.
Infantino Baby Carrier
Baby Toiletries and Amenities
I pack the following in a toiletry bag:
Baby shampoo and soap
Tylenol + syringe
Baby Comb
Vitamin D
Saline spray
Baby lotion
Baby Sunscreen
Some I have in travel size, others I fill a 3 oz travel bottle. Hotels might have a baby proofing amenity on request, but if you have a crawler or walker, I recommend bringing a handful of outlet covers.
Also, request a fridge ahead of time or when checking-in to your hotel.
In my diaper bag, I always have multipurpose wipes in a Ziploc bag, good to wipe down plane seat areas, table or high chairs at restaurant, toys, etc. I pack an extra baggie of them on trips.
Shop our Amazon list for all these things in one place!
Beach and Pool Travel Gear
If you’re heading to a beach destination, I recommend a few things:
Shade tent - having fun in the sun is great but shade is even better! We liked the COMMOUDS Large Pop Up Beach Tent with UPF 50+ beach sun shade including a carry bag! It’s lightweight is great for 3 people with some room for baby to run around. It is a pop up tent with screen windows (that can also close up) which compacts into a small bag weighing only 2 pounds. There are stakes and bags for sand bags to anchor the tent.
Beach blanket - this is great to have just in general. We like the HIHOHO Beach Blanket Sandproof, Lager 82" X79" and use it at the park or any lawn, really. It has pockets in the corner to fill with sand or rocks or even heavier toys and stakes to anchor. It’s machine washable too!
Related post: See all things need for baby from birth to 12 months in this Baby Must Haves List
Please note this is not a sponsored post and based on my own personal experience, all thoughts are my own.
If you liked this post please share it on your favorite social media site using the Share button below because we’d love to get the word out! Feel free to pin this to your favorite Pinterest board:
More travel inspiration:
Guide: Honolulu, Hawaii - What to do and Where to go on Oahu
Oahu is great whether you’re traveling with your family, significant other, or friends! 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. 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!
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!
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.
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!
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...
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.
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
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!
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:
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!
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.
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.
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.
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:
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.
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.
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.
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!
Paradise Found: The Best Hotels in Maui, Hawaii (with map)
Maui has so many wonderful options and choosing where to stay can be overwhelming, so we've compiled a list of our top 6 hotels in Maui to help you find your perfect slice of paradise. We even included a map with Kaanapali Beach hotels to compare.
Kaanapali Beach Views
Paradise Found: The Best Hotels in Maui, Hawaii
Happy 2025, have you booked your Hawaiian vacation yet? You bet we did!
Maui, the "Valley Isle," is a captivating destination that effortlessly blends natural beauty with vibrant culture. From the dramatic peaks of Haleakala volcano to the pristine beaches of Ka'anapali, Maui offers a diverse landscape of breathtaking scenery. Explore lush rainforests, witness the mesmerizing Road to Hana, and indulge in delicious Hawaiian cuisine. With its warm hospitality, vibrant arts scene, and endless opportunities for adventure, Maui is a truly unforgettable vacation spot.
Choosing where to stay can be overwhelming, so we've compiled a list of our top 6 hotels in Maui to help you find your perfect slice of paradise.
Here is a map made with the Wanderlog Travel Planner, so you can follow along, add to your Google maps account, or create your own personal map! Wanderlog allows you to create great maps and guides for any vacation! Check out the Kaanapali Beach hotels and how they compare to others. We’ve been to most, here are our top 6 places to stay in Maui!
See our full Guide to Kaanapali Beach including where to stay, things to do and best restaurants!
Find the best rate to visit these hotels by booking your room through Booking.com Not only will you find the best rate out there but by clicking this link and booking a night, I receive a commission at no additional cost to you! PLEASE support our blog and bookmark this link! :-) Thanks!
If you’re still deciding where to stay, our Ultimate Maui Travel Guide breaks down the best areas and resorts across the island.
Charming Gardens with Ocean views at the Hyatt Regency
1. The Maui Hyatt Regency:
Where to Stay: This iconic resort boasts a prime location on Ka'anapali Beach with breathtaking ocean views.
Why it's Great:
Stunning Pools: Multiple pools, including a lazy river and a waterslide, offer endless fun for all ages.
Delicious Dining: From casual beachfront cafes to elegant fine dining, the Hyatt offers a variety of culinary experiences.
Live Entertainment: Enjoy nightly luaus and live music performances for a taste of authentic Hawaiian culture.
Pampering Spa: Relax and rejuvenate at the award-winning Napili Point Spa.
Shave Ice Heaven: Indulge in a refreshing shave ice treat at Ululani's Hawaiian Shave Ice, located just steps from the resort.
Animal Menagerie: Find parrots that say “Aloha”, swans, flamingoes, and penguins. Yes, I said penguins.
Budget hotel option: You can use Hyatt points here but free night rewards don’t typically work. I always check!
Sheraton Maui Resort with Black Rock!
2. Sheraton Maui Resort & Spa:
Where to Stay: Nestled on the shores of Black Rock, this resort offers stunning ocean views along the Maui coast and easy access to snorkeling and diving.
Why it's Great:
Legendary Cliffs of Kapalua: Witness the iconic cliff divers leaping into the ocean during the nightly cliff diving ceremony.
World-Class Golf: Play a round of golf at the renowned Kapalua Golf Courses.
Spacious Accommodations: Choose from a variety of rooms and suites, many with private lanais and ocean views.
Multiple Pools: Enjoy several pools, including a lagoon pool and a children's pool.
Delicious Dining: Savor fresh seafood and local flavors at the resort's diverse dining options.
See our full review here: SHERATON MAUI RESORT HOTEL REVIEW
View from Room in Westin Maui Resort and Spa
3. The Westin Maui Resort & Spa:
Where to Stay: Located on Ka'anapali Beach, this luxurious resort offers a relaxing and rejuvenating experience.
Why it's Great:
Heavenly Beds: Experience the signature Westin Heavenly Bed for ultimate comfort.
Award-Winning Spa: Indulge in a rejuvenating treatment at the Heavenly Spa.
Breathtaking Views: Enjoy panoramic ocean views from your private lanai or while lounging by the pool.
Exciting Activities: Participate in a variety of water sports, including snorkeling, kayaking, and stand-up paddleboarding.
Family Fun: The resort offers a variety of activities for children, including a kids' club and a playground.
Budget Travel Tip: Book with Marriott points! Get the credit card and save those points!
Grand Wailea Room views at Sunset
4. The Grand Wailea, a Waldorf Astoria Hotel:
Where to Stay: This iconic resort boasts an unparalleled level of luxury and sophistication on Wailea Beach.
Why it's Great:
Epic Pools: Explore the resort's nine interconnected pools, including a lazy river, waterfalls, and water slides. There’s even an elevator in the pool!
World-Class Dining: Indulge in a culinary journey with award-winning dining experiences.
Luxury Spa: Experience ultimate relaxation at the award-winning Spa Grande.
Impeccable Service: Enjoy personalized service from the dedicated staff.
Ice Cream Bliss: Cool down with a delicious scoop of ice cream from the resort's own ice cream parlor.
Luxury travel resort, if you want to be fancy.
See our full blog post review here: GRAND WAILEA HOTEL REVIEW
Pool views at the Andaz Maui
5. Andaz Maui at Wailea Resort:
Where to Stay: This stylish and contemporary resort offers a unique blend of modern luxury and Hawaiian charm.
Why it's Great:
Stunning Oceanfront Location: Enjoy breathtaking ocean views and easy access to Wailea Beach.
Stylish Design: Experience contemporary design with a touch of Hawaiian flair.
Exceptional Dining: Savor innovative cuisine at the resort's acclaimed restaurants.
Relaxing Atmosphere: Unwind by the infinity pool or on the private beach.
Unique Experiences: Participate in cultural activities such as lei making and ukulele lessons.
There’s a good snorkel spot close by! See the Best Snorkel Beaches in Maui
Honua Kai Resort
6. Honua Kai Resort & Spa (Airbnb-Style):
Where to Stay: This luxurious resort offers spacious condominium-style accommodations with fully equipped kitchens and stunning ocean views. Great if you want to work from the hotel or if you have kids and need more space than a hotel.
Why it's Great:
Home Away From Home: Enjoy the comforts of home with spacious living areas and private lanais.
Access to Resort Amenities: Guests have access to resort amenities such as pools, spas, and restaurants.
Prime Location: Located on the pristine beaches of North Ka'anapali, offering easy access to nearby attractions.
Self-Catering Options: Enjoy the flexibility of cooking your own meals in your fully equipped kitchen.
Relaxing Atmosphere: Enjoy a more laid-back and independent vacation experience.
My favorite so that you can sprawl out! There isn’t maid service but there is a Duke’s Beach House Maui that also has waiters stop by the pool lounge chairs! Mai tai, please!
See how to budget your next trip: Maui Budget, Itinerary, and Checklist
Choosing the best hotel in Maui depends on your individual preferences and budget. Whether you're seeking luxury, adventure, or relaxation, you're sure to find the perfect paradise on this magical island.
Looking for more about Maui?! We have all you need:
HOW TO SPEND 4 DAYS ON YOUR MAUI VACATION - COMPLETE ITINERARY WITH MAP
How do you spend 4 days in paradise?! Come check out our 4-day vacation itinerary in Maui with our favorite things to do! Where to go and what to do when traveling to Maui, our favorite island to visit in Hawaii #maui #hawaii #itinerary
Kaanapali Beach - Black Rock
Updated: January 12, 2026
What to do for 4 days in Maui, Hawaii - FULL ITINERARY AND MAP
Maui is our absolute favorite place in the world! We got engaged, then married there a year later. Now, we return EVERY year to celebrate our anniversary and relive our favorite memories.
This itinerary is part of our Ultimate Maui Travel Guide, where we cover hotels, food, activities, and travel tips.
Hawaii is calling and I must go sign in our apt!
Do as our sign in our apartment says, "Hawaii is calling and I must go!" We got this sign at Sand People in Maui, my favorite shop!
There are so many different things to do in Maui, but here is our favorite itinerary! Whether this is your first trip to Maui, or tenth, we hope you love our suggestions.
This post may contain affiliate links of services that we love! If you book anything through these links, we get a commission at no cost to you! Help support the blog by saving and using these links.
Before you go, check out everything you need to pack for Hawaii here: Packing Checklist for Hawaii - includes a helpful list of items you can buy straight from Amazon!
Here is a map made with the Wanderlog Travel Planner, so you can follow along, add to your Google maps account, or create your own personal map! Wanderlog allows you to create great maps and guides for any vacation!
DAY 1
FLIGHT & CAR RENTAL
Front Street - Lahaina
We take the 8:30a American flight from LAX and the airport to fly into Maui is known as OGG. It's about 5 hours to get there and with the time difference, we arrive at the hotel around noon and have almost a whole day to do something fun on the island.
It's hard to get around the island without a car. We always rent a Jeep through Costco Travel to save money and get the best car to tour the island. We love the ones with the removable roof!
Don't have a Costco membership? That's ok, Booking.com also has great deals on car rentals or you can get a fairly decent rate on an airport transfer (if you don’t want to drive)!
What does Maui mean? Fun fact: This name belongs to a trickster god in Polynesian mythology!
RELATED POST: How much does it cost to go to Maui? - Itinerary, budget, and more!
Maui Rainbows are everywhere!
BEST MAUI RESORT HOTELS
We like to stick the Kaanapali stretch of hotels mainly because there is a lot to do and you can walk (or swim) everywhere. We love the Sheraton Maui Resort, which is located at the end of the Ka’anapali hotel stretch, against the black rock. 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! If you are looking for a place to stay with more people, they even have offers for apartments and houses you can rent, just like AirBnB or VRBO!
Before you go, check out everything you need to pack for Hawaii here: Packing Checklist for Hawaii
Sheraton Maui Resort Pool - Lagoon
Check out our entry for more on the Sheraton: Hotel Review: Sheraton Maui Resort and Spa
Check-in is normally 3p, so we try and check-in to see if our room is ready early, and if not we head to get lunch at one the pool bars (Cliff Dive Bar or Mai Tai Bar) and a Mai Tai! YUM!
Usually, our room is ready right after lunch, giving us time to move in and get ready for our first adventure.
AFTERNOON: SNORKELING
The best part about the end of the Kaanapali beach is the Black Rock, in front of the Sheraton Resort. Where it might seem like a hideous black lava rock, under the sea you can find gorgeous coral, tons of fish, and usually see a turtle or two. We’ve even seen a few octopuses but you have to look hard for them! Also, try a different spin on snorkeling and take sailing and snorkel trip to Honolua! Their catamaran is a BEAUTY!
Snorkeling in Maui - Turtle sighting
Another great spot is Kapalua Bay. Even though the clarity isn't as great as around Black Rock, there are still plenty of fish to see. On one of our swims, we saw 6 turtles! We parked in a free beach parking lot (or there is street parking) next to Merriman's, and walked through the tunnel near the valet for beach access.
RELATED POST: See more in our 5 Best Snorkel Spots in Maui
Kapalua Bay
Don’t forget to pack a hat!
EVENING: DINNER AT MAUI BREW CO BREWPUB
NEW Location: 2525 Kaanapali Pkwy, Lahaina, HI 96761
Note: the Maui Brewing Company Kahana Gateway Shopping Center location permanently closed in 2025.
This is a perfect place for good brews and bar food especially if you are coming back from a swim in Kapalua! The Maui onion dip and buffalo chicken wings are our favorite items on the menu! They put all of their beers on menu chalkboards in the restaurant and switch them out occasionally. You can also purchase beers there and take them home! We had them package up a few cans of beers we couldn’t buy on the mainland - all beers made it home just fine in our checked bag. There are also TV's throughout the restaurant if you are looking to root for your favorite sports team.
Fun fact: Did you know Maui Brew Co is independently owned? Garrett Marrero is a Poway native and the owner and found of the Maui Brewing Company, with local production on Maui itself! You can even tour the brewery for $20 in Kehei.
RELATED POST: Want more dinner options? Check out our post for our Top 10 Restaurants in Maui, Hawaii
DAY 2
ROAD TO HANA - FULL DAY TRIP
We’ve done the Road to Hana a few times since there are so many different things to do and see along the way. Some of our favorite stops include:
Black Sand Beach
Lava Tubes
Red Sand Beach
Coconut Glen's ice cream
Haleakala National Park (2 hours - if you do the long hike)
Don’t want to drive the windy roads? I don’t blame you! Book a seat with this Road to Hana Tour as recommended by a local!
Pro Tip: Check out our complete guide with a map of our favorite stops: Guide to the Road to Hana
Don't forget to stop to try some of Coconut Glen's homemade ice cream! They serve organic, vegan, dairy free ice cream, using coconuts from the jungles of Maui. Don't let "organic, vegan, dairy free ice cream" scare you. TRUST ME, you won’t regret it.
See my full review here: Coconut Glen's Homemade Ice Cream
Mai Tai at Mama’s Fish House
EVENING: MAMA'S FISH HOUSE
799 Poho Pl, Paia, HI 96779
On our way back from the road to Hana adventure, we stopped at Mama's Fish House for dinner. Make sure you make a reservation in advance, we used Opentable. Parking is valet only.
I'm not a fish person particularly, but I did try some of our friends Mahi Mahi dish and it was the best fish I’ve ever had. I enjoyed their short rib and a couple of Mai Tai's (love that it's served in a tiki glass)!
DAY 3
MORNING: SCUBA DIVING
Since we are scuba certified, we love to go diving at different locations in Maui.
We loved the company, Extended Horizons in Lahaina, they go to the best spots and have amazing diving instructors. The dive site, Cathedral II, was one of my favorite dives! We went through a lava tube which was basically a cave with holes in the back, creating a fun place to explore! Check out the weird-looking slipper lobsters we found on the dive in our video! Some other great spots include Molokini Crater, the Carthaginian shipwreck, and Olowalu Reef, also known as turtle reef!
Extended Horizons trips depart from Lahaina, which is very convenient for staying on Kaanapali beach! Whale season runs from November to May, which you can often see the humpback whales breach above water and you can often hear them while diving underwater.
They lost their shop and their boat in the Lahaina fire but still offer dives!
Want to set sail but not scuba? You can always rent a boat from our friends at Get My Boat, which is like Airbnb for boats!
Related Post: BEST SCUBA DIVE SITES IN MAUI
AFTERNOON: MASSAGES
We book our massages at the hotel typically the day we check-in, and look forward to them every day.
We love getting our annual couples massage at the resort, especially after a few scuba dives or doing a trip to Hana. We usually get a basic full body massage for 50 mins, but this last time we went for the 80 mins and it was worth every penny. The rooms are patio like with natural sunlight peaking from the top, complete with soothing Hawaiian tunes. Ahhh.. relaxing just thinking about it.
POOL SIDE
Grab your flip flops! We like to bring a book, a magazine, cards, or scroll through Instagram by the pool. This is where I started my research to start a travel blog! I may have ordered a few drinks to think it was a GREAT idea!
Various colors and prints available on Amazon.com
Before you go, check out everything you need to pack for Hawaii here: Packing Checklist for Hawaii
EVENING: SHOPPING & DINNER
We walked down to Whaler's Village for some shopping and grab dinner at the Barefoot Bar.
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.
I love their Mai Tai's which are served in tiki glasses topped with the umbrella! Presentation is everything to me. You MUST try the Hula pie! It’s vanilla or macadamia nut ice cream with an Oreo crumble pie crust, with whipped cream and fudge on top! OR try their enormous brownie ice cream sandwich. It’s a hard choice… just get both!
Need more options? There is also the Monkeypod Kitchen Restaurant in Whaler's Village that opened from the owners of Merriman's. We’ve literally tried everything on the menu and can’t recommend it enough - don’t skip out on the chicken wings or the mai tai with the honey foam! Check out our full review for more on Monkeypod: Restaurant Review: Monkeypod Restaurant
DAY 4
MORNING: HALEAKALA SUNRISE
Sunrise at Haleakala
Parking: Haleakala Summit Parking, Kula, HI 96790 - You MUST make a reservation in advance as parking is limited! Reservations can be secured two months in advance and up until 6pm the day before your visit. See more information and tips on visiting Haleakala here: HALEAKALA CRATER
We got up at 2am and hit the road by 3am to drive about 2 hours to the top of Haleakala Summit. Check the sunrise times and try to arrive about an hour beforehand for a spot in the lot.
It gets pretty chilly at almost 10,000 feet. I wore layers including exercise clothes with sweatpants and sweatshirt on top. Bring snacks and water (and coffee) too!
If you don't want to drive (the roads are very windy up and down the mountain at very early hours), take this guided tour with Roberts Hawaii where they will pick up, take you to the top, feed you 2 meals, and bring you back. You can rest easy and even take a nap!
Since the sunrise viewing in atop of a mountain, there are many spots to watch the sunrise from and not a bad view. As the sky starts to change cameras come out, and the sun rises through the clouds. It's one of the best sunrises I've ever seen in my life. Fun Fact: Josh proposed to me here!
Mauimosas at Kula Lodge
BREAKFAST @ KULA LODGE
15200 Haleakala Hwy, Kula, HI 96790
On the way down from Haleakala, we stopped at Kula Lodge for spectacular views, a delicious breakfast (eggs benedict was my fave), and a Maui-mosa - they use pineapple instead of orange juice.
AFTERNOON: NAP AND POOL-TIME
By the time we got back to the hotel, it was time for a nap and relaxation. We took a quick nap, then went to hang out by the pool and snorkel in the ocean.
Black Rock Jumpers
EVENING: DINNER AT MERRIMAN'S KAPALUA
Address: 1 Bay Club Pl, Lahaina, HI 96761
We made a reservation about a month in advance to make sure we could get there for some cocktails and sunset.
This fine-dining restaurant ($$$$) is the perfect spot in west Maui for sunset drinks and dinner. Located right on the water, you’ll overlook the waters of Kapalua Bay. Their cocktails are superb, made with fresh ingredients. The farm to table menu has a variety of Hawaiian fish and my favorite is the chimichurri savory steak.
Don’t forget about ordering some dessert! I enjoyed their homemade ice cream and cones (of course). It's about a 15 min drive from the Kaanapali resorts.
Wwoof, what a trip. But how amazing did it look?! :) Let us know what you think or if you have any suggestions in the comments below!
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!
Don’t forget some of our favorite packing essentials:
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Do You NEED Travel Insurance?
For the crazy and unprecedented events of 2020, travel insurance might be more important now more than ever for future trips! Make sure you’re protected for delays, illness, lost luggage, and even natural disasters. How do you get travel insurance? How does travel insurance work? How much does travel insurance cost? See our post for more!
For the crazy and unprecedented events of 2020, travel insurance might be more important now more than ever for future trips! Make sure you’re protected for delays, illness, lost luggage, and even natural disasters—the best travel insurance can soften the impact of unforeseen events.
How do you get travel insurance? How does travel insurance work? How much does travel insurance cost? ALL great questions that can be answered in this ultimate Travel Insurance Guide from Consumer’s Advocate.
PRO TIP: We typically book travel on our credit cards that offer travel insurance, just make sure you read the fine print!
You never know who’s watching you. Look out for pickpockets! ;-)
5 Interesting Facts About Travel Insurance
Buzzkills - Standard in most travel insurance policies is a drug and alcohol exclusion that won’t payout if you’re intoxicated. So… don’t get hurt after that mai tai in the fun tiki glass with the tiny umbrella.
How much does travel insurance cost? It depends on what type of coverage you end up getting. Typically costs range about 4-10% of the trip price. However, premium coverage or Cancel For Any Reason (CFAR) policies can be a bit more expensive. But if you can cancel a $3000 trip for $100, isn’t that worth it?
Event Cancellations - Allows for the cancellation of the trip if the specific reason for the trip--an event such as a concert or festival--is canceled.
Medical Coverage - If you are injured on your trip, some policies will fly a relative to take care of you or even emergency transport to your hospital of choice around the world. However, if you are being adventurous, check out extreme sports (bull riding, cave diving, and mixed martial arts) in the Explorer Plan vs Standard Plan activities (kite surfing, ice hockey) coverage here.
Loopholes--as they’re commonly understood--do not exist in insurance policies. While coverage can be denied for a number of reasons (drug or excessive alcohol use, for instance), those reasons are clearly laid out in the policy contract.
Zip-lining in Maui, Hawaii
5 Different Types of Travel Insurance Coverage
Basic cancellation coverage: Covers you for pre-paid, non-refundable expenses under a fixed set of circumstances outlined in your policy. You can make a claim when have to cancel a trip due to:
A health emergency or illness, for example. Depending on the policy you choose, you may also be able to make a claim
If you’re laid off from work or you’re called for jury duty (depending on the policy chosen).
If your travel provider has to cancel your trip due to a natural disaster in the destination city.
Trip delay insurance: You’ll be reimbursed for any expenses you incur as a result of your trip being delayed
Usually included with cancellation coverage.
Meals, hotel charges, and taxi fees are among the expenses covered.
Short departure delays are not covered; policies set a minimum number of hours for covered delays.
Trip interruption coverage: protects you in the event you have to return home due to an emergency once you’ve already started your trip.
It will likely pay for the cost of getting you home and getting you back to your destination once you’re able to travel again.
Cancel For Any Reason (CFAR): Offers the fullest coverage but may only make sense for you if your calendar is subject to change at a moment’s notice.
Specialized Event Coverage: covers special events for most cancellations (i.e. outdoor game gets rained out)
Have high-value items (phone, laptop, camera, etc.)? Make sure your items are within the limits of your policy; and if not, consider increasing your policy coverage!
So do you NEED travel insurance? Probably a good idea if you’re planning in 2020!
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 to Spend 3 Relaxing Days in Moorea - Complete Itinerary
How to spend 3 days in Moorea, French Polynesia! Check out our full itinerary listing about how we spent our days on our Moorea Honeymoon Trip! What to do in Moorea, where to go in Moorea, and how to get to Moorea!
What to do for 3 Days in Moorea, French Polynesia - Complete Itinerary
On our Honeymoon, we stopped in French Polynesia on our way back to the States. We were ready for some relaxation after going nonstop for over a week in Australia & New Zealand. We spent 3 nights in Moorea in an overwater bungalow and it was fabulous! Here’s everything you need to know about Moorea!
How to get to Moorea
Getting to Moorea requires a few transfers. We booked our Moorea portion through Tahiti Legends, who booked everything including our transfers from airports and hotels (we booked our own flights). We stayed at the Sofitel Moorea, in an overwater bungalow, which is something everyone must do in their lifetime! We flew via Air Tahiti Nui in business class (from New Zealand) using our miles, which was a comfortable flight with big seats and great amenities. Air Tahiti flies from Paris to LA to Tahiti to New Zealand and back. We didn’t go to Paris on this trip!
We had to stay in Tahiti overnight because our flight got in so late from New Zealand, there wasn't an option to get to Moorea after 8pm. We used our points to stay at the InterContinental. This was the view from an “average” room:
InterContinental Tahiti Room with Garden Views
Day 1
Morning in Tahiti
We had a car pick us up bright and early from the InterContinental in Tahiti to take us to the ferry. Driving around in the daylight unmasked the island and certain areas were definitely not paradise.
Aboard the Ferry from Tahiti to Moorea
We boarded the ferry around 8 am and the ride was about 20 minutes to Moorea. On the other side, a car picked us up (previously arranged) and took us about 10 minutes down the road to our hotel, the Sofitel Moorea.
We were too early for check-in when we arrived in Moorea, so we wandered around the resort to get our bearings. We walked over to the spa to check it out and made reservations for a couples massage for the late afternoon.
Entrance to our Overwater Bungalow Room
After about an hour, our room was available and we were so excited to check out our overwater bungalow. The room was spectacular and unlike any hotel we had ever stayed in!
Sofitel Moorea Overwater Bungalow Bed
The room felt like a suite. Walking in, you first notice the giant windows leading out to the water, then the high ceilings making the room feel enormous and spacious. The bed was perfectly placed in the middle of the room facing the water with a fantastic view. It had mosquito netting to which Josh said, "It's like a fort!"
Once you step in front of the bed, there is a part of the floor that has a glass square, where you could see the fish swimming under the bungalow.
Floor to see fish under our room!
Afternoon - Swim and Snorkel
Although we REALLY wanted to, you can't really jump off the deck of the bungalow, since it's pretty shallow and there is a lot of coral below. BUT you can go for a swim and there is a ton of marine life to see if you snorkel.
Just a small fish in a big pond
After a leisurely snorkel, we decided to switch it up and go over to the main pool to do more swimming (more like wading) and grab a bite to eat at the bar-restaurant.
Fish in Moorea in front of our Overwater Bungalow
In the late afternoon, we had our couples massage appointment. The spa room was huge, complete with a shower and bathtub. We only signed up for a massage but realized we could have spent an entire day at the spa. The massage was soothing and relaxing. After being in the sun all day, there was a slight burn to which aloe vera was offered. I was soothed and comforted, I could have laid face down on that table for the rest of the evening.
Day 2
WAKING UP IN MOOREA!
Sunrise in Moorea - View from Sofitel Moorea
Here's how to properly wake up in Moorea:
Not a bad way to start the day! Am I right?! From the Sofitel Moorea, we could see sunrises but the us would set on the other side of the island.
Morning - Drive around the Island of Moorea
We rented a little 2 seater buggy through Moorea Fun Roadster, which was like a small go-kart that went faster than you would expect, zooming around the island in about 4 hours. The road was bumpy at parts, but overall it was a blast! Since the island is so small it was nice to take the time to experience it on our own, checking out all there is to do!
See our post all about our buggy ride here: How to Rent a Buggy in Moorea
Afternoon in Moorea
After returning from our island tour, we were ready for some relaxation. We jumped in the water from our patio, and cooled off.
Patio stairs to the water
We spent the rest of the day on the patio of our deck playing cards with some fun drinks!
Pro tip: Buy alcohol at duty-free store at the airport and mixers if available. On our buggy ride, we stopped and bought concentrate (which we thought was juice) at the grocery store on Moorea. The concentrate was an ok way to go since you can get TONS of drinks out of it, but they get old after awhile.
Once we got too hot, we'd jump in the water, swim around, and come right back to our card game. I don't think I changed out of my swimsuit that day.
Sofitel Moorea - Overwater Bungalows
Once we needed a break from the cards, we decided to feed the fish under our bungalow which was great entertainment for at LEAST 20 minutes.
Evening in Moorea
We grabbed dinner at the bar restaurant and took it back to our room so we could do some star gazing. Since it is so quiet and so dark, there were thousands of stars to see. I don't think I've seen that many before in my life!
Stargazing in Moorea
On average, we seemed to go to bed when the sun went down (around 9-10 pm) and woke up as soon as it came back up (around 6:30-7 am). We weren't on any time zone in particular as we had been bouncing around so many places the previous week (we were in Australia and New Zealand).
Day 3
Morning in Moorea
We got up early to catch the sunrise! Since we didn’t get many sunsets here, it was nice to catch the sun coming up!
Sunrise in Moorea - Sofitel Moorea
We might have gone back to bed and then got up just in time to catch the end of breakfast at the main restaurant. The food was delicious, they offered a large spread of almost anything you could think of - eggs, omelets, french toast, pancakes, juices, coffee... and the view wasn't half bad. The only problem was the birds would try to snatch your food if you looked the other way!
Breakfast at the Sofitel Moorea
Afternoon
We packed up and checked out. Although we weren't hanging our heads quite yet, it was time to head to our next destination, Bora Bora!
Don’t forget to pack some of our favorite things:
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HOTEL REVIEW: Renaissance Aruba Resort & Casino
Best part about Aruba: visiting the flamingos on Renaissance Island! Where is the best hotel to stay in Oranjested, Aruba? Our hotel review of the Renaissance Aruba Hotel shows why you must stay, and includes things to do such as visiting flamingo beach on their private island, cabana rentals, shopping, and restaurants! There is an adult hotel and family hotel, which is fun for everyone!
Renaissance Aruba Resort & Casino
Address: L.G. Smith Blvd 82, Oranjestad, Aruba
Website: Renaissance Aruba Resort and Casino
Flamingo Beach - Renaissance Island
The number one reason to stay here is to visit Flamingo Beach! After we were spoiled staying at the Hyatt Regency Aruba, the Renaissance was nice but we spent more time with my new pink friends than in the room! Read all about our days spent at Aruba’s Renaissance Island - Flamingo Beach . Many ask: Is flamingo island worth it? 1000% YES!
Find the best rate to visit these flamingos by booking your room through Booking.com Not only will you find the best rate out there but by clicking this link and booking a night, I receive a commission at no additional cost to you! PLEASE support our blog and bookmark this link! :-) Thanks!
Renaissance Adult Only Hotel in Aruba
There are 2 hotels at the Renaissance property, both right across from each other. The adults-only hotel is more inland but still in the marina. It’s also connected to a very fancy, high-end mall and casino! Check out rates here: booking.com
All-inclusive rooms in Aruba!
All-inclusive room rates at Renaissance Aruba Resort & Casino are available. However, these rates tend to be higher because they include onsite food and beverages in the room rate.
How to get to Renaissance Island Aruba with the Flamingo Beach
The Renaissance owns a small island just a quick 10 minute boat ride away that they have named Renaissance Island. Booking your stay at the Renaissance guarantees you access to the island, there is a small chance you can buy a ticket the morning of, but there are very few if the hotel is not sold out. Here, you will find beautiful beaches with lounge chairs, a restaurant, hammocks, and FLAMINGOS. A water taxi stops every 15 mins in the lobby to head to Renaissance Island.
Read more here: Aruba’s Renaissance Island Flamingo Beach
Things to do at the Renaissance Aruba Resort & Casino
Go to Renaissance Island for the Flamingo and Iguana beach
Rent a cabana on Renaissance Island - The cabana comes with 2 bottles of Voss still water, 2 bottles of Voss sparkling water, bottle of sparkling wine, refreshing food amenity, personalized cabana butler service, towels, 2 water floats, and 2 full face-snorkeling masks. Cabanas at Iguana Beach come with kids snorkels. Cabana 4001 at Iguana Beach has a water slide. Rates start at $300 - BOOK EARLY!
Go for a dip in the pool (there is a family pool and adult-only pool)!
Get a drink at the lobby bar - it overlooks the pool and ocean!
Go shopping! There is a little plaza to shop around for clothes and souvenirs!
Have breakfast on Renaissance Island! There is an amazing restaurant, called Papagoyo Bar & Grill, that serves a large breakfast that will fill you up for a day in the sun!
Go to the Spa Cove on Renaissance Island! Peaceful and serene, this spa only has ocean views!
Arrival: Parking, Lobby, and Bar at the Renaissance Aruba
Valet parking is available under the lobby. We took a taxi and didn’t need a car to get around the island. The lobby was open air and the bar was located right next to the pool. Check-in was a breeze. Literally. The staff was really nice and when our room wasn’t ready, they stored our bags and we were allowed to go to the island.
Renaissance Aruba Guest Rooms
Our room was a decent size. We booked a Guest room, 1 King or 2 Double, Limited view in the Marina Hotel. The design was fairly modern and looked like they had been renovated fairly recently.
Guest Room
The little booth was cute but not very comfortable. Our limited view was an inside view and we were located right above Starbucks. The most exciting thing that happened out the window: watching people board the boats for Renaissance Island.
The closet was small, our suitcases didn’t fit inside. The robes were nice, though!
Bathroom
The bathroom was on the smaller side compared the Hyatt we had just stayed at, but was perfect for spending 24 hours there. SO many towels.
Renaissance Aruba Adult Pool
The adult pool was so quiet and relaxing, perfect for honeymooners. With ocean and marina views, why would you ever want to leave!
The lobby bar and the pool bar are one and the same. I love how open and bright the bar area is!
We basically paid $400 to see Flamingos, but they were worth every penny!
Find the best rate to visit these flamingos by booking your room through Booking.com Not only will you find the best rate out there but by clicking this link and booking a night, I receive a commission at no additional cost to you! PLEASE support our blog and bookmark this link! :-) Thanks!
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Guide to Kaanapali Beach in Maui, Hawaii: Where to stay, things to do, and best restaurants
A complete guide to Kaanapali Beach in Maui, Hawaii including where to stay, things to do, and best restaurants! Debating on Wailea vs Kaanapali? See why we love Kaanapali Beach and how it is perfect for any occasion whether you are with family, friends, or going as a couple. See the best hotels that will fit your budget and activities to add to your itinerary.
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.
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!
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!
Top 10 things to do on Maui Kaanapali Beach
Black ROck Jumping
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
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.
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!
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
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
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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Hotel Review: Andaz Napa - Our favorite hotel in Downtown Napa!
We found our new favorite place to stay in Napa! We fell in love with the Andaz Napa, charming us with their boutique-style hotel and large guest rooms! Located in Downtown Napa, it was close to plenty of shops and restaurants. See our ratings and why we loved it so much!
Andaz Napa is our favorite hotel to stay, located in the heart of Downtown Napa!
We typically head to Napa for my birthday and when we last went with my family, we stayed at the Andaz located in downtown Napa, the perfect location for shopping, dining, and WINE.
Evaluation (out of 5)*:
Hotel: Andaz Napa (Hyatt Family)
Address: 1450 1st St, Napa, CA 94559
Location: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Price: $$$$ (always check Booking.com first!)
Average Room Size: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️(HUGE)
Cleanliness: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Staff: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Dining Options: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Quietness in Room: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Bed Comfort Level: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️(soft pillowtop but firm enough)
*It’s always hard to judge other people’s opinions when you don’t know them, right? I like nice, clean hotels that are close to public transpo or an area close to main restaurants and attractions. I’m a fairly light sleeper and like softer beds. We typically like to use points for one or two nights and pay for more if we need to.
Looking for something more budget-friendly? We also liked this Bed and Breakfast: The Cabernet House
Lobby and Staff at the Andaz Napa
Andaz Napa Lobby
The lobby was really cute and had great living room setups. We spent some time here since there were 6 of us. As we were checking-in, we were offered a complimentary glass of wine from a local winery! What a way to welcome! The staff was very accommodating and the valet took our luggage to our rooms. As it rains often in Northern California, there were large umbrellas by the door to borrow for the day. That was one less thing to pack… or forget to pack!
Right off the lobby, there was a lovely bar, Mercantile Social, which we would visit nightly. They also offer farm-fresh seasonal foods, from salads and smoothies to grass-fed beef burgers. Yum.
Napa Andaz Lobby Bar - Mercantile Social
Check out our favorite wineries to visit: 7 Best Kept Secret Wineries
Inside the Guest Rooms at the Andaz Napa
I fell in love with the room! We didn’t have an upgrade but we felt like we did! Our boutique type room was large and had a living room/seating area with a fireplace diving the room with the bedroom on the other side. The fireplace could be seen from both sides. The furniture was modern and I felt like I was in a West Elm catalog. Also, notice the wood floors!? I worried we’d hear people above us, but it was pretty quiet!
The beds were very comfortable and cosy by the fireplace. I guarantee a great sleep after a day of drinking. ;-) I thought it was a little strange for the bath tub to be next to the bed, but it was nice that you could see the fireplace or even watch TV while enjoying a warm bath. Other rooms have the tub near the window.
Guest Rooms at the Andaz Napa have large tubs
Or the bathtub is located by the window
Guest Room Bathrooms
My fave, the Bathroom Selfie
The bathroom was an ideal size for 2 people! 2 sinks with long counters gave me plenty of space to do my hair and make-up while Josh brushed his teeth. I liked the marble rain shower and the wood bench/seat to dry off on. I found it odd to put wood in a shower but the aesthetic was pretty!
Mercantile Terrace
I thoroughly enjoyed our drinks on the second-floor terrace. We sat outside under some lovely warm heat lamps (it was December after all) and enjoyed some specially crafted cocktails. There are also cozy fire-pits or cabanas to sit and enjoy selections from a farm-to-table menu of locally sourced light bites. Even the cocktails had locally sourced ingredients!
Mercantile Terrace
Final Evaluation
Overall, this 4-star hotel checks all the boxes. I appreciated their use of locally sourced ingredients at their bars and restaurants. Although it is a little pricey, the downtown location and room size make it worth it! We’d definitely come back!
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!
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More Napa and Northern California travel tips here:
Hotel Review: Hilton Northolme Resort & Spa - Best Hotel in the Seychelles
The Seychelles was one of the most relaxing and beautiful islands we’ve ever been to! Where to stay in the Seychelles? You must stay at the Hilton Northolme Resort and Spa and get a pool villa! See why this was the best hotel in the Seychelles!
See why the Hilton Northolme Resort & Spa is the best place to stay in the Seychelles
The Seychelles is a very magical and beautiful place. We’ve traveled the world and have been to many islands and tropical paradises, but this island is special! As soon as we checked-in at the Hilton Northolme Resort & Spa - Seychelles, we were ready for luxury relaxation. We were in need of some R&R after our African Safaris!
Pool Villas
If you’re literally flying halfway around the world, you might as well stay in style. We stayed in Room 305 which was a Pool Villa, meaning we had our own private pool off of our room.
Pool Villa
Pro-tip: if you request the 400s Pool Villas, you can shoot golf balls off your deck into the water. Don’t worry, the balls are made of fish food and feed the fish!
You can also order room service (and dranks) and have it delivered to your pool! We basically tried to figure out a way to never leave our room.
Hilton Northolme Resort - Guest Room
Since we were in a villa the room was quite large! The bed had mosquito netting and every day housekeeping would make a different animal out of towels on the bed.
Room highlights - Coffee maker included a nice Nespresso machine or a kettle for tea. There was a huge walk-in closet with tons of cubby holes and a safe to store all of our things. The living room had a large tv and a couch with a chaise lounge, perfect for relaxing at the end of a day in the sun. Did I mention there was a pool outside our room?
Hilton Northolme Resort - Bathroom
The bathroom was gorgeous! A large tub with jacuzzi jets sat in the middle of the room with a shower on the side. The shower had the option of rain or handheld.
The tub had a view looking outside over the pool. The doors provided easy access after getting in the pool. So one tip, the hot water didn’t quite fill the tub, it cooled off at some point. That said, do not turn on the jets unless the water is well above the spouts. Otherwise, water sprays EVERYWHERE. Again, just a tip, not like it happened to me.
Hilton Northolme Resort - Pool in the Pool Villa
The pool attached to the villa has spectacular views and is very private. The water wasn’t heated but still warm enough to sit in for a long time. I won’t get in a cold pool and I could get in this one just fine.
There is a board with rules that had been washed away so I broke rules instantly since it was hard to read and didn’t see them until afterwards. Oops! Don’t forget to pack your floatie!
There were 3 places to sit on the patio, in the shade on the couch, at the table, or on the chairs in the water. Our favorite was sitting in the water of course. Pro tip.. bring your towels out and unlock the door to the bathroom so you don’t drip all over the place like I did!
Hilton Northolme Resort
Spa
Our room came with a complimentary 15 min back and neck massage and we had to try it out! The tea they served afterward was really good.
Spa
Fitness Center
There was a nice gym overlooking the water and a hammock. I may have only spent time in the hammock, not the gym.
Infinity Pool at the Hilton Northolme
Since we had our own pool we admired the lovely infinity pool and then ran back to our villa infinity pool.
Infinity Pool
Restaurants and Bars
There were a few places to eat on the property. There was a fine dining restaurant, called Les Coutiers, but we just ate at the Ocean View Bar where they had amazing drinks like the Cannonball.
Cannonball drink - rum drink that won an award!
There was an awesome band that played reggae tunes like Bieber’s Despisito and Wrecking Ball as instrumentals. They also served Seybrew on tap which wasn’t bad for a local brew.
Josh had the red snapper and I had a chicken wrap with fries. Josh makes fun of me when I need American food at some point on our trips!
Ocean View Bar - Properly named!
Hilltop
For breakfast, we’d venture to Hilltop, which was at the top of the hill. It’s not a huge hill. Anyway, they had a fantastic breakfast spread with everything you could imagine as well as an egg station to get whatever you were feeling that day. I loved the eggs benedict and the mimosa bar!
Breakfast of champions
They even had all sorts of fun rentals including paddle boards, kayaks, snorkel gear, etc. I liked this swing personally.
You have to treat yourself every once and a while, so next time you’re looking for that island vacation, you must stay at the Hilton Northolme Resort & Spa!
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!
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See why we needed some R&R in the Seychelles after our trip to Africa!
Hotel Review: Grand Wailea, A Luxury Waldorf Astoria Resort - Maui, Hawaii
Looking for where to stay in Wailea, Maui?! One of the best hotels we recommend is the Grand Wailea for couples, honeymoons, and families! It is a luxury resort with great amenities including an amazing pool and beach! See everything they have to offer and why you must stay here when planning your next trip to Hawaii!
#maui #hawaii #grandwailea #wailea
The Lucky Mermaid Fountain - Grand Wailea
The Grand Wailea is the best hotel on Wailea beach!
Where to Stay in Maui
We typically stay at the Sheraton Maui in Kaanapali because it holds a special place in our heart, it’s where we got married! We stayed at the Andaz Wailea once, but we loved our most recent stay at the Grand Wailea a Waldorf Astoria Resort! Sitting atop 40 acres in Wailea, It was the perfect location to walk to other hotels and shops, but also had amazing views with large rooms!
Related Post: Packing Essentials for Hawaii
Getting to Wailea
Wailea is located on the southwest shore of the island of Maui in the state of Hawaii (United States). The Grand Wailea is a quick 35-minute drive from the Kahului Airport and only a 20-minute flight if you’re coming from Honolulu. We took a direct flight from Los Angeles to Maui. We rented a car and had to valet every night, there isn’t any self-parking.
Grand Wailea Ocean View King Rooms
These rooms are 640 sq. ft. with gorgeous pacific ocean and garden views. The private balcony is large, and a wonderful place to have a cup of coffee in the morning or drinks in the afternoon on. You can also see what looks like a little island straight ahead, which is the Molokini crater. It is an excellent place for snorkeling and scuba diving! Also, if you look closely, you can catch a whale swimming by!
Note: Whale watching season is between November and May in Maui.
Ocean View Room - Private Balcony
The room had a nice plush, comfortable, king-sized bed, a private balcony, and a spacious bathroom with oversized bathtub and separate glass-enclosed shower! It’s large enough that you could do cartwheels in the bathroom (although I wouldn’t recommend it).
Grand Wailea Ocean View Room Bathrooms
In the room, there was also a Kurig with better than average coffee and tea options. There was also an empty mini-fridge, which was perfect to put our water bottles, leis, and Maui Brew Co beers! ;-)
Pro tip: Upgrade to the exclusive Napua Tower, so you can enjoy the best panoramic ocean views available! Napua has a private club lounge and other luxurious benefits.
The Grand Wailea Resort
Just walking around the resort was lovely. There were ocean views everywhere you looked and for being open-air, the resort was spotless.
Other amenities with the Daily Resort Charge: guest internet access; beach umbrellas; admission twice-daily scuba clinics and daily snorkel lessons; 45-minute photography session; beach cruiser bikes; yoga classes; scheduled cultural, garden, and art tours; local/toll-free calls
Pro-tip: Get to Wailea beach around 7a to get a front-row covered beach chair to spend the day by the water. It’s free of charge for guests! We would jump in the water, go for a walk, snorkel, play cards, or even take a nap. It’s a nice way to spend the day! Just make sure you head back to the chairs every hour.
RELATED POST What to do in Maui?: 10 FUN THINGS TO DO IN WAILEA
The Grand Wailea Pool
The Grand Wailea is like a waterpark and is known as Wailea Canyon including four jungle pools, five intertwining slides, a whitewater rapids slide, a Tarzan rope swing, a sand beach, six waterfalls, caves, three Jacuzzis, a water elevator, and a swim-up bar! Good enough for me and great for kids! The pool has the world’s first water elevator that takes you up to the waterslides! It’s technically the only one in the world, built for the owner’s son, who was disabled, this million-dollar elevator keeps you in the water the whole time!
Grand Wailea Maui Pool
There are quite a few water slides that connected smaller pools creating a lazy river feel! There were a few longer slides that went really fast, feeling like you were at a water park. The Tarzan rope swing is great for the kids to swing and jump into the water - big kids can do it too (I did!). The adult-only pool is the best way to keep splashing to a minimum and wade in the pool or spa with a tropical drink.
Grand Wailea Pool
Our favorite part of the pool was the swim-up bar! You can sit at the bar or there were a few booths where you can sit waist-high in the water! The boys liked the Grotto Bar to have a drink and watch sports without getting out of the pool. I liked it for the lava flows and cool pool booths!
Grand Wailea Grotto Swim-up Pool Bar
Grand Wailea Luau - 'Aha'aina Wailea
No trip to Hawaii is complete until you have checked a luau off your list! Enjoy a Hawaiian feast while watching traditional Hawaiian dances and there is an amazing fire dance performance you cannot miss! Get a great deal on the best luau in Wailea with tickets from Activity Authority.
Grand Wailea Luau
Restaurants and Shops
Just off the lobby, there were beautiful shops for resort wear, home goods, art, a market, and more! You wouldn’t need to leave the resort. However, if you like shopping there is a shopping center next door (the Shops at Wailea) with an ABC Store, restaurants, and some of your favorite retail shops.
Breakfast at the Grand Wailea
Since we were Gold Hilton Honors members, we were able to get a free continental breakfast or upgrade to the buffet breakfast for $19 which was totally worth it! The Grand Dining Room offers an omelet bar, fresh fruit, waffles, vegetables, potatoes, parfaits, rotating breakfast dishes including favorites like eggs benedict, pretty much EVERYTHING! Breakfast is my favorite meal, and this spread did not disappoint.
HUMUHUMUNUKUNUKUAPUA'A
Easy for you to say! This was our favorite place to get a drink a fancy cocktail in the bar and watch the sunset. Humuhumnukunukuapua’a means triggerfish with a snout like a pig (it’s a reef triggerfish). Make reservations ahead of time for dinner here, the menu is fantastic!
HUMUHUMUNUKUNUKUAPUA'A Sunset Drinks Views
VOLCANO BAR & GRILL
Located in the middle of the pool area, we had lunch at their poolside tables one day with sandwiches, quesadillas, and burgers on the menu! They also have a full bar menu.
Bistro Molokini
We had drinks and dinner at Bistro Molokini. Located near the adult pool and above the other pools, there are great ocean views, drinks, and food. We liked their pizzas and sandwiches but I wouldn’t get anything beyond that. Their Mai Tai was good, but see our Favorite Maui Mai Tai list if you’re looking for the best Mai Tai on the island!
Bistro Molokini at Grand Wailea
Botero Lounge
The most beautiful lobby bar surrounded by fountains and garden sculptures, it’s nice to relax and have a drink here.
Spa Grande
Don’t forget to relax! There are 40 treatment rooms in this 50,000 square-foot award-winning spa, which is the largest spa in Hawaii (that’s including all of the islands)! Enjoy services such as the Exclusive Healing Waters of Maui, a Hydrotherapy Circuit, and a unique haven of water therapies featuring a Roman tub, saunas, cascading waterfalls, Swiss jet showers, a Japanese furo, and five specialty baths. AHHHHHH…
New Years in Maui, Hawaii
Directly in front of the hotel on Wailea Beach, fireworks shot off for about 20 minutes from a barge in the ocean at midnight! It was a perfect celebration to ring in the New Year!
New Years in Maui - Wailea
Bring the kids? GREAT!
There is a 20,000-square-foot “Recreation Outlet Center for Kids” for children ages five to twelve. The qualified staff (also offer nighttime supervision so you can have that one on one time), Camp Grande is equipped with a children’s restaurant, craft room, theater, game room, and outside play area. The kids won’t miss you when they are distracted by activities such as hikes, nature walks, special workshops, such as lei making, ukulele lessons, and t-shirt dyeing.
Final Thoughts
Overall, we enjoyed our stay at the Grand Wailea Maui and would recommend you to stay here! We loved the rooms and the staff was very accommodating. This is a Hilton property so keep that in mind for your points!
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!
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 to see 40+ lions and the Big Five in the Maasai Mara, Kenya - Africa
When we were in Kenya, we stayed at the Tangulia Lodge in the Maasai Mara and were able to see over 40 lions and the Big Five! See how we did it in our latest post from Africa!
How to find 40+ lions and the Big Five while on safari in the Maasai Mara
Africa was the trip of a lifetime! Seeing all the animals roaming in their natural habitats was so much better than watching animals at a zoo. We found 40+ lions, the Big Five, and more in the Maasai Mara! Here’s how we did it…
Scroll down to watch our video of our trip to the Maasai Mara!
All pictures were taken by us! See our camera gear here: African Safari Packing Essentials
Lion cub found in the Maasai Mara
Where to stay in the Maasai Mara and find the best guides!
We stayed at the Tangulia Mara Camp where we had the best guides to find all the animals we were dying to see! Benjamin and David greeted us at the airport as soon as we landed on the dirt airstrip and were with us on every game drive after that! They were knowledgable about the animals and their behaviors, knowing where to find them or look for them at any point of the day. I still don’t know how they spotted a leopard from miles away! pun intended.
Leopard in the tree
Our guides were so patient and would go out with us for hours. There was only one other couple staying at the camp while we were there, so we lucked out and had a private car all to ourselves! This is a huge benefit when you find an animal you’re interested in and can sit and watch for hours… like we did with the lions and leopard.
Hyena up close!
We’d usually start out early around 6:30a/7a to see the most action from the animals waking up. Breakfast was packed in the car, so we’d make a stop at some point, which one of the other guides called it going to Starbucks! Haha!
Lioness and her cubs
We’d see lions in prides and sometimes on their own, usually a lioness with the cubs. If we drove around after the sun was fairly high in the sky, we’d find lions together taking a cat nap after their morning breakfast.
A lion we woke up from a nap!
Animals to find in the Maasai Mara and the Big Five!
We found the Big Five while we were on our safaris, which were originally called this because they were the most difficult and dangerous animals to hunt on foot! We weren’t here to hunt, obviously, just observe. The Big Five include the African elephant, lion, leopard, rhinoceros, and Cape buffalo.
Scroll down to watch our video of our trip to the Maasai Mara!
Leopard in the tree
There were many other animals to see, including:
Oryx
Spotted hyena
Topi antelope
Thomson Gazelle
Banded mongoose
Maasai sheep
Maasai giraffe
Hippo
Cheetahs
Wildebeest - THOUSANDS of them!
Baboons
Crocodiles
Zebras
Warthogs - they call them Pumbas!
Cheetahs in the Maasai Mara
Our guides were telling us how there are 5 cheetahs that travel together and are rare to see but are considered celebrities if you see them. About an hour later someone spotted them, and we had to find them! We saw a bunch of other safari vehicles and knew there they were. The cheetahs walked right around our vehicle and would call to one another if one of them were out of sight. We were SO CLOSE to them, it was unbelievable.
Tangulia Mara Camp Accommodations
The camp was beautiful, overlooking a saltwater lake from a saltwater spring. There was a river behind it but they aren’t connected. Animals often came through for drink from the waterhole, so it was nice to sit in our room or up at the lodge just to watch them come and go.
Tangulia Mara Camp
We had room 1 at the very end of the camp, which was closest to the water and a great place to watch for animals.
They called the area near our room Hippo Highway because the hippos would come up at night to eat the grass! Sometimes they make odd noises that sounded like evil laughs! Kinda creepy at 2am but also very exciting.
Just watching the giraffes from our room in my Lion King socks.
Meals and Food in the Maasai Mara
Meals were provided in the lodge and the food was wonderful! Dishes would come family style, and they would keep coming even when you thought you had enough! Meals included dishes such as chicken, pork, vegetarian lasagna, avocado salad, green salad, fruit salad, delicious bread with an assortment of spreads, and always ended with dessert!
Sundowner - Doa
We enjoyed having a sundowner, a drink around happy hour as the sun would set. I tried a Doa which had vodka and lemon juice with a sugar rim, both refreshing and sweet!
Watch our video of our trip to the Maasai Mara:
Overall, we loved our visit to the Maasai Mara! We saw the most animals on our safaris and had amazing guides. I’m glad we spent more time there than our first 2 stops in Saruni.
Warthog - Locals call them pumbas which means Dumb in Swahili!
To book a trip of a lifetime like this, I highly recommend using the travel agency, Scott Dunn! To speak to a safari expert at Scott Dunn, call 858-523-9000 or visit scottdunn.com/us and tell them Kathleen and Josh Cregg sent you. This is not a sponsored post, all thoughts and considerations are my own.
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Experiencing Saruni Samburu and Seeing the Northern 5 in Kenya - Africa
We saw the Northern Five and tons of other animals while on safari in Northern Kenya! Also, see our amazing accommodations at the best lodge in Northern Kenya, Saruni Samburu, making this the trip of a lifetime to Africa. What to wear and packing tips also included!
Our experience at Saruni Samburu was unbelievable! Yes, I know I say this often but I mean it! From the room to the food to the guides, our stay was absolutely perfect and we were sad to leave. We even got up close and personal with the Northern Five native to Northern Kenya!
See my packing list of things you can purchase on Amazon here: Amazon African Safari Packing List
Scroll down later in the post to watch our video of our trip to Saruni Samburu!
Reticulated Giraffe seen while on safari with Saruni Samburu
How to Get to Samburu, Kenya
We stopped in Nairobi and took a smaller plane to Samburu for about an hour's flight. They did weigh our luggage but you give them your bags over a counter so you can kinda hide a camera if you’re worried about the 33 lb weight limit. The coolest part was sitting behind the pilots and landing on a dirt runway!
Our guide met us there and took us to the Saruni Rhino where we spent a few days but the drive from the air strip was about 30-45 minutes from Saruni Samburu.
See more on our trip to Saruni Rhino and how we got up close and personal with a baby rhino here: Rhino Tracking at the Saruni Rhino
Guest Rooms at Saruni Samburu
Guest Room Bed at Saruni Samburu
I wish we had more time to spend in the room! WHO SAYS THAT?! Well, when you have a room with a second floor and a lovely living room overlooking Kenya, why wouldn’t you?!
As we walked into our room, which was not a suite, this is their standard room, we were blown away by the size of the room and the balcony attached to it!
Panorama of our room
View from our room
We then discovered we had another room upstairs! This room was also large in size set up like a living room, complete with a dining table.
Our living room attached to our bedroom
The bathroom was huge and had a bidet next to the toilet. Not only was there a shower inside the bathroom, but there was also a shower outside overlooking the conservation. I did take a shower outside one morning while watching elephants at the waterhole.
Safari Time at Saruni Samburu
How do safaris work?
We weren’t sure exactly what to expect for our safaris, but we were very happy with our experience. Everyday you’ll head out in the morning or afternoon for a safari. Depending on what you see and how great your guide is, you’ll drive around for 5-8 hours which sounds crazy but goes by real quick! Our car was completely open and had panels that came down in case it rained.
Elephant Crossing
What should you wear on a safari?
I read a ton of blogs telling me what to pack and that I needed to purchase $100 safari shirts… Let me tell you, I was just fine in my Gap t-shirt and leggings. We did treat our clothes with permethrin, a bug repellent for your clothes. In the morning and late afternoon, I made sure to have a sweatshirt but there were also blankets in the car. Unless you are getting out of the vehicle, which you aren’t supposed to, there’s no reason not to where something comfortable that you can sit in for long periods of time.
Traffic in the conservancy
Our Safari Experience
Joseph was our guide for the time we were at Saruni Samburu as well as Saruni Rhino. Since he is from the local village, he knew the area (and animals) very well and was phenomenal at finding animals far away. Joseph understood various animal behaviors and explained their actions, teaching us fun facts about each animal.
Scroll down later in the post to watch our video of our trip to Saruni Samburu!
Reticulated Giraffe having Breakfast
Here are some of the animals we saw over the course of 3 days:
Impalas - we even saw a newborn, birthed seconds before we arrived
Batiat foxes 🦊
Beisa Oryx (part of the Northern Five, more on that below)
Leopards - mama and cubs
Egyptian geese 🦆
Lions 🦁
Elephants
Dik-diks - little antelopes about a foot tall
Rock hyraxes
Wilds dogs - very rare
Somali ostrich (part of the Northern Five, more on that below)
Dwarf mongoose
Fotery guinea fowl
Gerenuk
Grant’s Gazelles
Grevy’s Zebras 🦓 (part of the Northern Five, more on that below)
Nile crocodile 🐊
Cheetah
Reticulated Giraffes (part of the Northern Five, more on that below)
Warthogs - Even our guide called them pumbaas (which means dumb in Swahili)! Since they have such a short term memory, they are known to walk by a lion and walk back to the same spot 5 minutes later, forgetting they had passed it.
Eastern yellow-billed hornbill - AKA the flying banana or Zazu from the Lion King
Baboons
Monkeys
Cheetah stalking antelope
We went out in the early morning and late afternoon covering all basis to see as many animals as possible. Every day we saw something different and right when one day couldn’t possibly top the day before, it did! Depending on how long we were going out, we either ate before or after the safari, or they packed us breakfast or lunch.
Can you spot the leopard? pun intended
The topography was very dry and looked like the elephant graveyard in the Lion King. There is a river about an hour away and the closer you get, the more animals you see! Keep your eyes peeled and be patient. Sometimes just sitting and watching the animals for a while is fun to observe their behaviors. You never know what they might do!
Baby baboon by the river
Elephant at the water hole at night
One of our nights, we even went out for a night drive. I was nervous going into the dark at night at first and wondered what animals we’d see but there were so many we came across:
Porcupine
Owl 🦉
Hawk
Hare
Jackal
Male and female Ostriches
Striped hyena - very shy, very rare
Family of Elephants
The Northern Five in Kenya
We were lucky to find the Kenyan Northern Five including the Somali Ostrich, Gerenuk, Grevy’s Zebra, Beisa Oryx, and the Reticulated Giraffe!
Here we go…
1. Somali Ostrich
The Somlai Ostrich differs from most ostriches with a bluish color on their neck and legs, instead of a pink color. The males were beautiful with black and white feathers, while the females had grayish brown feathers.
2. Gerenuk
As part of the antelope family, Gerenuks are also known as giraffe gazelles, appropriately named with their long necks and slender limbs. They’ll even stand erect on their hind legs to reach higher branches. I loved the pattern in their ears!
Gerenuk - Kenyan Northern Five
3. Grevy’s Zebra
In comparison to other zebras, Grevy’s unique characteristics include their taller height, large ears, narrower stripes, and white bellies with no stripes. with their stripes being closer together and thinner, it is easier for them to make a good escape and to hide from predators. Foals are born with brown and white striping which darken as they grow older.
Family of Grevy’s Zebras
4. Beisa Oryx
Also known as the East African Oryx, they are recognized by their long horns and striped markings. Yeah, even though they eat grass, I wouldn’t mess with those horns!
Beisa Oryx
5. Reticulated Giraffe
Also known as the Somali Giraffe and most commonly seen in zoos. Their beautiful coats consists of large, polygonal, liver-colored spots outlined by bright-white lines.
Reticulated Giraffe
Our camera gear used to grab these gorgeous photos:
Watch our video of our trip to Saruni Samburu:
Food at Saruni Samburu
The owner of the Saruni franchise is Italian and all food was also Italian with a Kenyan flair. There were always 3 courses for every meal and we never left feeling hungry! Dessert was always a must! Alcohol was included which we typically had wine and beer. There was a beverage menu with more options that you could pay for.
The Grounds at Saruni Samburu
There were 2 gorgeous infinity pools within a short walking distance fo our room. Although they weren’t heated, it was nice to take a dip then sit and enjoy the view.
The main lodge was a nice place to hang out as well. Sometimes before or after a meal we’d hang out and have a drink by the bonfire, or just lounge on the big couches and enjoy the view.
Wifi was only available near the main lodge and it wasn’t very good. Don’t count on working from there, but a few social media posts will go through… eventually.
Activities to do while at Saruni Samburu
Massages
Our room came with a complimentary massage for 30 mins for one person. After lugging around our heavy bags through airports, I was ready for a back and neck massage!
Bush Walk
We walked around the outskirts of our lodge with our guide and a ranger, and came across a pack of wild dogs! Apparently they are very rare to see. I thought they were hyenas at first, I just loved their big ears!
Wild Dogs - Rare sight!
Star Gazing
At night there was practically no light pollution leaving a sky full of stars! We were able to see the Milky Way and on Josh’s Sony A7, he was able to capture the Milky Way!
Milky Way seen from the balcony of our room
We had a wonderful stay at Saruni Samburu and highly recommend it to anyone booking a future trip to Africa. We booked through Scott Dunn to get the best service and bang for our buck! Please tell them we sent you!
Please note this is not a sponsored post and based on my own personal experience, all thoughts are my own.
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Other posts from Africa (see all Africa posts here)
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