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

Kaanapali Beach Views

The Ultimate Maui Travel Guide (2026 Edition)

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

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

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

Inside this guide, you’ll find:

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

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

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

• A 4-day Maui itinerary you can actually follow

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

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

This Maui Guide Is Perfect For:

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

Honua Kai Sunset Views in Maui, Hawaii

Jump to a Section

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

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

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Quick Facts: Maui

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

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

Best Time to Visit Maui

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

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

Quick Seasonal Summary

Here is a breakdown of each month:

• January–March (Whale season)

• April–May (Shoulder season sweet spot)

• June–August (Peak summer travel)

• September–October (Best value months)

• November–December (Holiday crowds)

When to Visit Maui

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

January–March: Whale Season & Winter Escape

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

What to expect:

• Peak whale season

• Slightly cooler temperatures (still warm by mainland standards)

• Larger winter swells on the north and west shores

• Higher prices and more crowds, especially in February

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

April–May: Shoulder Season Sweetie Spot

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

Why this is a favorite:

• Warm, sunny days

• Fewer crowds than winter

• Lower hotel rates compared to peak season

• Calm ocean conditions for snorkeling

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

June–August: Summer Travel & Family Season

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

Summer highlights:

• Excellent beach weather

• Calmer ocean conditions overall

• Great snorkeling and water visibility

• Busy resorts and higher demand

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

September–October: Best Value Months

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

Why fall is underrated (and our favorite!):

• Lower airfare and hotel prices

• Warm ocean temperatures

• Fewer visitors at major attractions

• Great conditions for beach days

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

November–December: Holiday Travel & Seasonal Transition

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

What to know:

• Early November can be calm and affordable

• Thanksgiving and Christmas are peak travel times

• Weather remains warm, though slightly more variable

• Holiday pricing applies in late December

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

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

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Where to Stay in Maui: Best Resorts and Areas

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

Kaanapali vs Wailea: Where to Stay in Maui

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

Grand Wailea Mermaid Fountain

Best Locations to Stay in Maui

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

Kaanapali

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

Best for:

- Walkability

- Larger resorts

- Group trips and families

Wailea

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

Best for:

- Families

- Couples

- First-time visitors

Lahaina

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

Best for:

- Condos

- Budget-friendly stays

- Central access

Kihei

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

Best for:

- Budget travelers

- Condo stays

- Long-term visits

Hana

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

Best for:

- Adventure seekers

- Romantic stays

- Slower travel

Kaanapali vs. Wailea: Which is better?

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

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

• Guide to Kaanapali

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

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

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

• Guide to Wailea

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

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

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

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

Our Top Recommended Maui Hotels

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

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

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

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

Honua Kai 3-bedroom Condo

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Favorite Top 10 Things to Do in Maui

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

• Road to Hana

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

  • Lava Tubes

  • Twin Falls Waterfall

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

  • Pipiwai Trail (Bamboo Forest) → Waimoku Falls

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

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

• 🤿 Snorkeling Adventures

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

• Scuba Dive

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

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

• Hiking Trails

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

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

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What to Pack for Maui

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

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

Clothing & Footwear

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

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

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

Beach & Sun Protection Essentials

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

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

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

Day Trips & Adventure Gear

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

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

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

Packing for Families & Kids

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

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

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

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

Toiletries & Practical Items

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

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

What You Can Skip

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

Want a Full, Printable Packing List?

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

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New Kaanapali Beach Location for Maui Brewing Company

Best Restaurants in Maui: Where to Eat

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

1. Monkeypod Kitchen (Kaanapali & Wailea)

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

2. Merriman’s Maui (Kapalua)

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

3. Star Noodle (Lahaina)

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

4. Local Favorites & Quick Bites

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

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

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

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

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Best Ice Cream in Maui

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

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

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

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

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

Hula Pie at Duke’s Beach House

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Mai Tai at Merriman’s Restaurant

Best Mai Tai In Maui

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

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Our Favorite 4 Day Maui Itinerary

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

See our full 4-day Itinerary post.

How Many Days Do You Need in Maui?

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

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

• 3–4 days: Beaches + resort time only

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

• 7–10 days: Ideal for first-timers

• 10+ days: Slow travel + repeat favorites

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

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Iao Needle Hike in Maui

How Much Does a Trip to Maui Cost?

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

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

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Babymoon in Maui

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

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

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Honeymoon and Romantic Things to do

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

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

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

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

Find more love on Maui.

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Maui with kids

Maui with Kids

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Jeeps are the best Rental Cars in Maui, Hawaii

First-Time Maui Tips and FAQs

1. Do you need a rental car?

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

2. Is Maui expensive?

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

3. How many days is enough?

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

4. What not to skip on your first visit?

   • SNORKELING is a must! Find a turtle!

5. What part of Maui is best to stay?

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

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Kula Country Farms - Maui, Hawaii

Reservations You Need in Advance for Maui

• Road to Hana park reservations

• Haleakalā sunrise permits

• Popular restaurants

• Snorkel tours

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is Maui worth visiting in 2026?

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

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

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

3. How many days do you need in Maui?

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

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

First-time visitors should stay in Kaanapali or Wailea.

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

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

5. Is Maui good for families with kids?

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

6. Is Maui expensive?

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

7. Do you need a rental car in Maui?

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

8. Do you need reservations for Maui attractions?

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

• Road to Hana state parks

• Haleakalā sunrise

• Popular restaurants and snorkel tours

Booking early helps avoid disappointment.

9. Is the Road to Hana worth it?

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

10. Is Maui good for honeymoons and romantic trips?

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

Common Maui Planning Questions

Is Maui better than Oahu for a first trip?

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

What is the cheapest month to visit Maui?

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

Is Maui walkable?

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

Are there free things to do in Maui?

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

Can you visit Maui without doing the Road to Hana?

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

Is Maui good for a relaxing vacation?

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

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Black Rock at Kaanapali Beach - best for snorkeling

Planning Mistakes to Avoid

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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More Maui Posts:

Road to Hana Best Stops (2026): Must-See Stops + Map & Honest Tips

Kahanu Garden - National Tropical Botanical Garden

Best Stops on the Road to Hana (2026 Guide + Map & Real Tips)

UPDATED January 1, 2026

The Road to Hana is one of Maui’s most iconic drives — and also one of the most overwhelming to plan. With over 600 curves, dozens of waterfalls, and endless pull-offs, it’s impossible to stop everywhere in one day.

This guide breaks down the best Road to Hana stops that are actually worth it, based on driving the route multiple times. We’ll cover must-see stops, how long the drive really takes, whether it’s worth it, tips for families, and include a map so you can plan without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.

Before you go, check out everything you need to pack for Hawaii here: Packing Checklist for Hawaii

Road to Hana Quick Facts

• ⏱ Time Needed: 8–12 hours round trip
• 🚗 Distance: ~64 miles round trip
• 🛣 Curves: 600+
• 🌉 Bridges: 50+
• 👶 Kid-Friendly? Yes (with planning)
• 🚙 Rental Car OK? Yes
• 🗓 Best Start Time: Before 7am

Sale

The Road to Hana: Complete Guide with Map and Directions 2023

Sale Price: $7.00 Original Price: $10.00

Add to Cart

Download our ROAD TO HANA COMPLETE GUIDE for 23+ stops! It is filled with more information on popular stops including pro tips on what to do while you’re there, parking tips, and awesome food stops! It’s your guide to a perfect day along the Road to Hana! By purchasing, you’re helping support the blog with the time and effort put into these posts. 😉

Jump to:

• Best Stops on the Road to Hana
• Road to Hana Map
• Road to Hana With Kids
• Drive It Yourself vs a Tour
• What to Skip on the Road to Hana

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Before you Begin - Road to Hana Map

Download our ROAD TO HANA COMPLETE GUIDE or something you can access Road to Hana stops offline. Cell reception can be spotty, especially when you're looking for that waterfall you've been dying to see. Make sure you save the guide to an offline source like the "Books" app on your iPhone.

Here is a Road to Hana map that coincides with all stops listed below that you can turn on, and save to your Google Maps app: 

Prior to your departure, map out about 6 stops for the day. We have more stops below as we’ve done this drive multiple times, but you can't do all of these in one day.

PRO TIP: On your flight to Hawaii is a GREAT time to make your Road to Hana plan! Download our ROAD TO HANA COMPLETE GUIDE PDF prior to your flight to your computer, tablet, or smartphone in an offline app!

How long does it take to drive the Road to Hana? That’s a loaded question! It takes about 3 hours to get to Hana Town from Kaanapali or Wailea. It’s then up to you how long you want to spend at stops and how far you want to travel.

The Best Road to Hana Stops (If You Only Have One Day)

If this is your first time driving the Road to Hana, these are the stops that give you the best experience without rushing or burnout:

1. Coconut Glen's ice cream (15 mins)

2. Lava Tubes (30 mins)

3. Black Sand Beach (30-60 mins) - YOU MUST MAKE A RESERVATION

4. Red Sand Beach - Koki Beach (30 mins)

5. Haleakala National Park (2 hours - if you do the long hike)

Make sure you bring water (especially for the hike) and snacks for the car. Go for a swim! Don't forget to bring other necessities for the day - download our ROAD TO HANA COMPLETE GUIDE which includes a complete PACKING LIST.

Start early and come back before dark, the roads aren't well lit at night. Jeeps are the best for driving some of these trails. Get a great deal on rental cars with Booking.com.

To drive the Road to Hana you can go 2 ways:

• Normal Way - Take highway 365 to 360 and start clockwise on the Northside.

• Back Way - Head south on Highway 37 and come up counterclockwise to the Northside.

Total drive time is about 6 hours driving to the furthest point (Haleakala National Park) and back without stopping. Be careful on the turns, as some of them go down to one lane. Of course, with so many amazing stops and fabulous views, it doesn't seem that long!

We've driven around Hana both ways. The rental car companies advise you not to come "the back way" to prevent wear and tear on the unpaved, rocky, jagged roads. Here’s what the back way to Hana looks like (before it gets extremely bumpy for 20+ minutes):

I also used these sites to guide us along the highway:

• Maui Guide - Beautiful photos and great info for all stops on the Road to Hana

• MAUI GUIDE BOOK - great info for Hana, and all things Maui

It rains more often on Hana Highway, make sure you check the latest weather predictions and Road Closures - before you head out. 

If you don't feel like driving (I don’t blame you), check out this amazing Road to Hana Tour with Activity Authority recommended by a local!

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FIRST STOP: HALFWAY TO HANA

If you travel the traditional clockwise way, your first stop should be the Halfway to Hana stand! Stop for the banana bread - it's amazing, and perfect for breakfast! Try their shave ice on your way back, but no judgment if you have it first thing In the morning!

RELATED POSTS:

Check out our ULTIMATE MAUI TRAVEL GUIDE including where to stay, what to do and best restaurants!

Best Restaurants in Maui                Top 10 Things to do in Maui

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BEST SIGHTS TO SEE ON THE ROAD TO HANA:

Is the Road to Hana Worth It?

✔️ Yes, if you enjoy waterfalls, lush scenery, and slow travel
❌ No, if you hate long drives or tight roads
✔️ Worth it for first-timers who start early
❌ Not ideal if you’re short on time or prone to motion sickness

The numbers and sights below are in order traveling clockwise representing the mile marker on the Road to Hana (there are markers you'll see along the side of the road). 

Mile Marker #2 Twin Falls

Park in the lot and you can hike down to the falls. If you keep to the left split you'll find Ho’olawa li’ili’i; if you head up to the top, there is another waterfall Ho’olawa nui.

Twin Falls stop on Road to Hana

The Twin Falls have split waterfalls that feed into a pool. Many people love to swim here during the day, but beware - the water is pretty cold! Although it does feel nice on a warm day!

Twin Falls with rope swing on Road to Hana

Parking: Lot available but fills up quickly with tour buses, or you can park along the road. Make sure you turn in your mirrors; those roads are narrow and we've seen them get knocked off! Don't let it happen to you. They also have a snack stand and porta-potties.

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Rainbow Eucalyptus

Mile Marker #7 Rainbow Eucalyptus Trees

The largest grove of rainbow eucalyptus trees can be found near mile marker 7. No need to stop as they can be seen along the highway. These trees with streaks of beautiful colors are scattered throughout the drive, and prominent at the Ke’anae Arboretum as well as areas right before Hana town.  

What is a rainbow eucalyptus?

Per Wikipedia: Patches of outer bark are shed annually at different times, showing a bright green inner bark. This darkens and matures to give blue, purple, orange, and then maroon tones. The previous season’s bark peels off in strips to reveal a brightly colored new bark below. The peeling process results in vertical streaks of red, orange, green, blue, and gray.

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Mile Marker #19 Upper Waikani Falls - 3 Bear Falls

3 Bears Falls also known as Upper Waikani Falls

 You can see from driving along the road (pictured above). There are so many waterfalls, I don't think this one is worthy of an actual stop. 

Parking: There are spots to pull over on the side of the road.

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Mile Marker #27 1/2 Coconut Glen’s Ice Cream

Coconut GLen’s Ice Cream

Organic, vegan ice cream made with coconut milk from coconuts found in the jungles of Maui. I was skeptical of the words "vegan" and "coconut milk," but it was quite delicious. Also, they serve their ice cream in coconut shells! We went there on our way back to the hotel; just note their hours when you go. 

Check out our full review here: ICE CREAM REVIEW: Coconut Glen’s Ice Cream

Parking: Has a parking lot with a turtle. Look closely under the shrubs.

Nahiku Marketplace (1546 HI-360, Hana, HI 96713) is also close by, and is a great place to stop for coconut shrimp, fresh fruit, smoothies, or Hawaiian mixed plates!

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Mile Marker #31 Lava Tubes or Ka'leleku Cave

Just past mile marker 31, turn left onto Ulaino Road. Drive 0.4 miles to the “Hana Lava Tube” visitor center entrance. The entry fee was $12 a few years ago. It may have gone up (cash only), which provides a quick overview and history as well as a map and a flashlight to explore.

The Lava Tube is about 1/3 mile long and was formed when massive lava flows cooled off on the surface, creating an insulating conduit with lava flowing underneath. During eruptions, the cave served as a channel for the lava to travel along underground until it reached the ocean. In the tubes, you will find lavacicles, stalactites, and a few skylights along the way. We spent about 30 minutes getting to the end and back. Above ground, there is a maze full of ti plants (a maroon color). Good luck!

Parking: There is a parking lot!

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Mile Marker #31 Kahanu Garden - National Tropical Botanical Garden

Address: 650 Ulaino Rd Hana, HI

Just down the street from the Lava Tubes, lives a lush botanical garden with waterfalls & gorgeous coastal views.

Per their website: Plant collections from the Pacific Islands are the focus here, particularly plants of value to the Hawaiian people as well as other cultures of Polynesia, Micronesia, and Melanesia. Kahanu Garden is situated in the storied land of Honoma'ele and home to Pi'ilanihale Heiau, a massive lava-rock structure that is believed to be the largest ancient man-made structure in Polynesia.

You can take a guided tour or just wander around (which we did for about 30-45 minutes). Tour info per their website:

• Tour Duration: 2 hours

• Check day and operating hours on their website

• Ticket Prices for a guided tour: Adults (13 and older) - $30 | Children (12 and younger) - free*

• Ticket Prices for self-tour: Adults (18 and older) – $12 | Kamaaina – $7 |Teen (17-13) – $5 | Children (12 and younger) – free | Hana Residents – free*

  *ticket prices are subject to change. Make sure you check their website for the latest info!

Pro Tip: Just past the twin falls there is the Garden of Eden Arboretum (10600 Hana Hwy, Haiku, HI 96708), but the views are better at Kahanu Garden.

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#32 Waianapanapa State Wayside Park - Black Sand Beach

Black Sand Beach views

This is the main black sand beach with a few sea caves to explore. It’s really different to see the black sand between your toes! According to Skylinehawaii.com, a common way that black sand and black sand beaches are formed is when hot lava hits the cold ocean water and cools very quickly, causing it to shatter and break into pieces of basalt fragments of all sizes-- including grains of black sand.

There are a couple of paths that you can get a little hike and take a moment to stretch your legs! You can even bring food and eat at the picnic tables. Camping is available here if you’re into that!

NEW: All visitors and commercial operators will need to make reservations to enter the popular Waiʻānapana State Park on Maui, beginning on March 1, 2022. Make your reservation HERE. There are 2-3 hour blocks including an entrance fee per person and parking fee per vehicle:

Entrance Fee

• Hawaii Residents = Free w/ Drivers Lic. or ID

• Non-Residents = $5.00 Per Person

• Children 3 and Under = Free

Parking Fees

Non-Commercial Vehicles

• Residents = Free w/Hawaii ID or Drivers Lic.

• Non-Residents = $10 per vehicle

Commercial PUC Vehicles

• 1-7 passenger vehicles: $25

• 8-25 passenger vehicles: $50

• 26+ passenger vehicles:$90

Parking: There is a parking lot as well as public bathrooms!

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Hana Town

Hana Town stretches for a few miles and here are a few sites you can't miss!

Mile Marker #50 Hamoa Beach 

Hamoa Beach

One of Hawaii's most spectacular beaches hidden on the beautiful Koki Peninsula. Perfect for a refreshing swim or working on your tan on the shore.

Parking and Directions: Drive south on Hana Hwy, turn left on Haneoo Road, then continue driving through the neighborhood until you see the ocean and an area with cars parked along the road. Park on Haneoo and walk down the hill or steps to the beach.

 

Lunch Spots in Hana

Shave ice at the Food Truck Stop

See our COMPLETE ROAD TO HANA GUIDE for a detailed list of restaurant options in Hana (farm stand and even more stops!).

We love to stop at the food trucks - Da Fish Shack and I Lava Tacos!

Address: 5260 Hana Hwy, Hana, HI 96713

1. Da Fish Shack - Food truck along Hana Highway. Have fish any way you like it, tacos or burgers - they have it all. There was also a shave ice truck right next to It where you could get a sweet treat, ice cream, or coffee.

2. I Lava Tacos - AMAZING burritos and tacos can be found at this food truck!

Don’t forget to grab some shave ice or a sweet vanilla cone!

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KAIHALULU RED SAND BEACH

Kaihalulu: Red Sand Beach

A gorgeous private red sand cove. The sand is actually more deep red-black, which contrasts with the blue water. The cinder cone behind the beach erodes constantly, which enlarges the sand cove. The iron-rich hill makes the beach's sand deep red in color.

Many people have been hurt or killed over the years trying to get to this spot. A local has told me this is sacred ground and we need to respect the Hawaiians!

Instead, visit Koki Beach, another red sand beach that is easy to get to and find out more in our Road to Hana Guide!

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Mile Marker #41 Haleakala National Park - Kipahulu 

Directions: Continuing clockwise past Hana Town, you will find the entrance for Haleakala National park near Mile Marker #41. Parking is $30 per vehicle, $25 per motorcycle, and $15 per pedestrian or bicyclist. Although it is probably the furthest stop on the Road to Hana, there is a lot to do here, so it is best to try and start your day here and work your way back. Pro-tip: For GPS directions, search Kīpahulu Visitor Center.

From this entrance, there are some great hikes in the park, including our favorite trail to Waimoku Falls. You can also follow another trail to take a dip in the Seven Sacred Pools. This is not the same entrance you would use to watch the sunrise at the top of Haleakala, which is located on the other side of the dormant volcano.

The Haleakala National Park site has all info regarding closures as well as hiking trail maps: Click Here

PIPIWAI TRAIL - BAMBOO FOREST

Our favorite hike is to take the Pipiwai Trail, a 4-mile roundtrip hike through the lush bamboo forest, ending at the gorgeous waterfall known as Waimoku Falls.

The hike can be a little steep at times, but not a severe incline, filled with stunning sites and walking through a thick bamboo forest. I loved the sound of the bamboo stems hitting each other in the wind.

WARNING: On one of our trips, there was a "closed" sign due to the fallen trees blocking the trail ahead. Sometimes a ranger patrols the post to prevent people from passing. If violated, you can get a $100 fine, so I'd play by the rules for your safety.

WAIMOKU FALLS - HALEAKALA NATIONAL PARK

After following the Pipiwai Trail, there were signs to follow a trail to get to the waterfall. There were quite a few places where you had to cross streams and jump onto rocks, but that just adds to your "adventurous" life status.  

At the end of the trail, you'll be standing and gazing at a huge 400ft waterfall that is known as Waimoku Falls. The more rain, the bigger the stream!

Mile Marker #42 'Ohe'o Gulch (Seven Sacred Pools) - in Haleakala National Park

Around mile marker 42, look real quick to catch a glimpse of ‘Ohe‘o Gulch, a cleft in the island that has layered pools and numerous waterfalls on the east end of Haleakala National Park. 'Ohe'o means "Something Special", which definitely suits these special pools. Also known as the Seven Sacred Pools, when water levels are safe, there are actually more than seven pools open to swimming.

Make sure you obey all signs; some areas are known for rock slides and have killed people. Also, be mindful when swimming directly below a fall, as natural debris may flow over.

We finally swam in the pool in October 2019, which was cold but felt refreshing after our long hike. There are tons of slippery rocks that didn’t work out well barefoot or with flip flops. I HIGHLY recommend water shoes with tread.

Haleakala National Park site has all info regarding closures as well as hiking trail maps: Click Here

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Driving the Road to Hana With Kids

Is the Road to Hana worth it for kids? Yes, but you MUST plan ahead! It is an all day adventure in the car so keep these in mind:

• Bathroom stop reality

  • There are a lot of stops that have restrooms, but not all do

  • Make sure you know where the closest restrooms are (state parks, general store, restaurant)

• Snack strategy - Pack snacks like you are leaving for 5 days

• Nap expectations - Hopefully if your toddlers are still napping, they can sleep in the car! If not, maybe a stroller walk around the Black Sand Beach.

• When to turn around

  • Try and make your last stop before lunch your furthest point.

  • Start making your way back after lunch, you can make more stops along the way as long as your little one(s) can handle it!

• Safety near waterfalls

  • Be Cautious of Freshwater Illness - Avoid swimming if there are posted warnings and don’t let kids swallow waterfall water.

  • Toddlers and young kids should stay within arm’s reach at all times.

  • Rocks near waterfalls are often slick with algae so wear water shoes with good grip are safer than flip-flops or bare feet.

Here are the most Toddler Friendly Stops and the order we recommend:

• Haleakala National Park for a hike through the Pipiwai Trail (Bamboo Forest) to Waimoku Falls (park near Kīpahulu Visitor Center)

• 'Ohe'o Gulch (Seven Sacred Pools) for a swim

• Lunch in Hana Town - Food trucks will give you the most options

• Black Sand Beach (Wainapanapa State Park)

• Coconut Glen’s Ice Cream

See more things to do in Maui and full guide for Maui with kids including a 5-day itinerary!

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Drive It Yourself vs a Road to Hana Tour

One of the biggest decisions when planning the Road to Hana is whether to drive yourself or book a guided tour. Both options have real pros and cons, and the right choice depends on your travel style.

🚗 Driving the Road to Hana Yourself

Best for: Independent travelers, families with kids, early risers, photographers

Pros:

• Go at your own pace

• Stop (or skip) whenever you want

• Easier with kids who need snack, bathroom, or nap breaks

• More flexibility to turn around early if needed

Cons:

• The driver can’t fully enjoy the views

• Requires navigating narrow, winding roads

• Parking at popular stops can be competitive

Good to know:
Starting early (before 7am) makes a huge difference if you’re driving yourself. Roads are quieter, parking is easier, and the experience feels far less rushed.

🚌 Taking a Road to Hana Tour

Best for: First-time visitors, couples, travelers who don’t want to drive

Pros:

• No driving stress

• Local guides share history and hidden spots

• No worrying about directions or parking

• Often includes lunch and key stops

Cons:

• Fixed schedule and limited stop time

• Less flexibility with kids or nap schedules

• Can feel rushed at popular spots

• Long day sitting on a bus

Good to know:
Tours are a great option if you’re nervous about the drive or want to relax and take in the scenery without navigating tight roads.

⭐ Our Honest Take

If you’re traveling with kids, we strongly recommend driving yourself. The flexibility to stop when you want, adjust the day as needed, and skip crowded spots makes the experience far more enjoyable.

If you’re visiting without kids and prefer a stress-free day where someone else handles the logistics, a guided tour can be a great choice.

There’s no wrong option — the best Road to Hana experience is the one that fits your travel style.

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What to Avoid on the Road to Hana

The Road to Hana can be an incredible experience — but a few common mistakes can turn it into a stressful or unsafe day. Here’s what to avoid to make the most of your drive.

🚫 Trying to Do Too Much

It’s tempting to stop at every waterfall and lookout, but that’s the fastest way to feel rushed and exhausted.

• Pick a handful of must-see stops

• Build in time for bathroom and snack breaks

• It’s okay to skip stops and enjoy the drive

🚫 Starting Too Late in the Day

Late starts lead to traffic, full parking areas, and pressure to rush back before dark.

• Aim to start before 7am

• Morning drives are quieter and more enjoyable

• You’ll have better lighting for photos

🚫 Driving Past Your Comfort Level

The road is narrow, winding, and not the place to push through stress.

• Turn around if the drive becomes overwhelming

• Don’t feel pressured to complete the full loop

• There’s no “right” endpoint for everyone

🚫 Parking Illegally or on the Roadside

Illegal parking is one of the biggest safety issues on the Road to Hana.

• Never block the road or bridges

• Avoid stopping where parking isn’t clearly allowed

• Fines are common and roads are too narrow for mistakes

🚫 Ignoring Weather and Water Conditions

Conditions can change quickly, even on sunny days.

• Skip waterfall swimming after heavy rain

• Avoid muddy, fast-moving water

• Respect all posted warnings and closures

🚫 Trespassing or Ignoring Signs

Many roadside areas are private property.

• “No Trespassing” signs are there for a reason

• Stick to clearly marked public stops

• Respect local communities and residents

🚫 Letting Kids Wander Near Water or Roads

This drive requires extra attention with children.

• Keep kids within arm’s reach near waterfalls

• Watch carefully near roadside pull-offs

• Use water shoes and avoid slippery rocks

🚫 Relying on Cell Service

Cell service is unreliable along much of the route.

• Download maps ahead of time

• Screenshot directions and stop lists

• Don’t assume GPS will work everywhere

⭐ Parent Tip

The best Road to Hana days are flexible ones. If kids are tired or conditions don’t feel right, it’s always okay to turn around early — you’ll still see plenty of beauty along the way.

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Watch our video that has a collection of a few trips along the Road to Hana:

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The Road to Hana: Complete Guide with Map and Directions 2023

Sale Price: $7.00 Original Price: $10.00

Add to Cart

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Click photo for Top 10 Restaurants in Maui

Heading Back Before Dark

After our adventure in Haleakala National Park, we turned around and went back the way we came, stopping for ice cream halfway at Coconut Glen’s (see above - Mile Marker 27.5).

The roads are narrow and harder to see at night as there aren’t many street lights. It can take up to 3 hours to get from Haleakala National Park back to Kaanapali Beach.

We stopped and had dinner at the infamous Mama's Fish House (make a reservation ahead of time on Opentable).

Pro Tip: You can continue on the Road to Hana from Haleakala National Park, but the roads are very bumpy, narrow (1 lane most of the time), and unkempt. It also breaks your terms with most rental car companies. The safest way is to go back the way you came, especially if it is your first time on the Road to Hana.

 TRY OUR FREE ROAD TO HANA GUIDE: CLICK HERE

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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:

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Before you go, check out everything you need to pack for Hawaii here: Packing Checklist for Hawaii  

Get your FREE Road to Hana guide by clicking here: FREE ROAD TO HANA GUIDE

Here are some more Maui posts:

10 Reasons Why Outrigger Honua Kai Resort & Spa is the Ultimate Maui Family Vacation Rental

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…

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3-Bedroom Condo at Honua Kai - Ocean Decor

1. 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

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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

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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

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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!

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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

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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!

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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!

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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

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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!

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This is not a sponsored post, I genuinely like Honua Kai and Maui Resort Rentals. For the record, I like ice cream more.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Download our Fun Ice Cream Holidays Calendar here

Fun Ice Cream and Sweet Related Holidays (Calendar Style)

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

January

• National Chocolate Covered Cherry Day - January 3rd

• National Whipped Cream Day - January 5th

• National Milk Day - Jan 11th

• National Strawberry Ice Cream Day - January 15th

• National Blonde Brownie Day - January 22nd

• National Pie Day - January 23rd

• National Peanut Butter Day - January 24th 

February

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

• National Dark Chocolate Day - February 1st

• National Carrot Cake Day - February 3rd

• National Chocolate Fondue Day - February 5th 

• World Nutella Day - February 5th 

• National Frozen Yogurt Day - February 6th

• Chocolate Mint Day - February 19th

March

• National Peanut Butter Lovers Day - March 1st

• National Oreo Cookie Day - Mar 6th

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

• National Pi Day - Pie day! March 14th

April

• National Chocolate Mousse Day - April 3rd

• National Caramel Popcorn Day - April 7th

• National Peach Cobbler Day - April 13th

• National Pineapple Upside Down Cake Day - April 20th

• National Jelly Bean Day - April 22nd

• National Cherry Cheesecake Day - April 23rd

May

• National Apple Pie Day - May 13th

• National Chocolate Chip Day - May 15th

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

• National Taffy Day - May 23rd

June

• National Donut Day - first Friday in June

• National Chocolate Ice Cream Day - June 7th

• National Fudge Day - June 16th

• First Day of Summer - June 20th

July

• July is National Ice Cream Month!

• National Strawberry Sundae Day - July 7th

• National Sugar Cookie Day - July 9th

• National Free Slurpee Day - July 11th

• Cow Appreciation Day - July 14th

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

• National Vanilla Ice Cream Day - July 23rd

• National Hot Fudge Sundae Day - July 25th

• National Coffee Milkshake Day - July 26th

• National Cheesecake Day - July 30th

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

August

• National Ice Cream Sandwich Day - August 2nd

• National Chocolate Chip Cookie Day - August 4th

• National Sponge Cake Day - August 23rd

• National Waffle Day - August 24th 

• National Banana Split Day - August 25th

September

• National Chocolate Milkshake Day - September 12th

• National Ice Cream Cone Day - September 22nd 

• National White Chocolate Day - September 22nd

• National Cherries Jubilee Day - September 24th 

• National Coffee/Starbucks Day - September 29th

October 

• International Coffee Day - October 1st 

• National Homemade Cookies Day - October 1st 

• National Cinnamon Roll Day - October 4th

• National Frappe Day - October 7th 

• National Cake Decorating Day - October 10th 

• National M&M Day - October 13th 

• National Dessert Day - October 14th

• World Food Day - October 16th 

• Sweetest Day - October 17th

• National Chocolate Cupcake Day - October 18th

• National Boston Cream Pie Day - October 23rd 

• National Chocolate Day - October 28th

• National Candy Corn Day - October 30th 

• Halloween/ National Caramel Apple Day - October 31st

November

• National Candy Day - November 4th

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

• National Vanilla Cupcake Day - November 10th 

• National Sundae Day - November 11th 

• National Cake Day - November 25th

• National French Toast Day - November 28th 

• National Lemon Cream Pie Day - November 29th 

December

• National Cookie Day - December 4th

• Gingerbread House Day - December 12th 

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

• National Cupcake Day - December 15th

• National Chocolate Covered Anything Day - December 16th 

• National Cookie Exchange Day - December 22nd 

• National Candy Cane Day - December 26th 

• National Chocolate Candy Day - December 28th

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

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

By Press, JoKa

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Best Ice Cream Joke

Silly Ice Cream Jokes - Good for Kids!

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

• A: Sundae school!

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

• A: Because he was stuffed! 

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

• A: They have a soft serve.

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

• A: Ice Cream 

• Q: How did Reese eat her ice cream? 

• A: Witherspoon.

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

• A: Pi a'la mode.

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

• A: Because of the Rocky Road.

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

• “Sure Burt!”

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

• A: You scream

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

• A: Sundae!!

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

• A: In a woofle cone!

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

• A: It spent the day chill-axing!

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

• A: It went to a Rocky Road!
  
  

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

• A: It always got a scoop!

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

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Ice Cream Puns

• You Got Soft Served.

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

• You are the sprinkles to my ice cream.

• We are mint for each other. 

• Ice cream makes everything better.

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

• Go Shawty, It’s Sherbert Day.

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

• Life’s better with a cherry on top.

• I’m A Big Softie.

• If you believe, anything is popsicle.

• Game Of Cones.

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

• Peace, love, and ice cream.

• In-Cone-Ceivable!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Inspirational Ice Cream Quotes

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Ice Cream Movie Quotes and Memorable Television Scenes

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Famous Ice Cream Songs and Lyrics

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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More ice cream related posts:

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

After’s Ice Cream - Venice

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

Updated: 7/20/25

When is National Ice Cream Day?

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

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

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

Throw an Ice Cream Social

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

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

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

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

Try our favorite Ice Cream Word Search!

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

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

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

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

7-Eleven - Free Slurpee

The Scoop: Free Slurpee in any 7-eleven shop

When: 7-11

Wanderlust Creamery

16 Handles - Free Soft-serve!

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

When: Sunday, July 20

Baskin-Robbins - $5 off

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

When: July 20–26

BJ's Restaurant and Brewhouse - Free Pizookie

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

Blue Ribbon - Giveaway

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

Breyers - BOGO

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

Bubbies Ice Cream - BOGO

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

When: July 2 through July 15

Burger King - Free Soft Serve

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

When: Sunday, July 20

Carvel - Free Topping and $5 reward

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

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

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

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

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

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

Extra Scoop: AMAZING Giveaways!

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

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

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

Creamistry - 10% off

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

Dairy Queen - Free Dilly Bar

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

When: July 14 - 20

Dippin Dots - Free Mini Cups

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

When: July 20

Dunkin’ Donuts - Discount and Double Points

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

When: July 20

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

eCreamery Ice Cream - $15 off

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

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

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

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

Friendly’s - Free Cone!

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

When: July 18-20

Ghirardelli Chocolate Company - Discounted Sundae

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

When: Friday, July 25

Gopuff - deals!

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

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

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

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

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

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

Graeter’s - Free Cones!

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

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

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

Halo Top: Got An Ice Cream-Inspired Name?

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

When: July 14 to July 21

Handel’s Homemade Ice Cream - Free Ice Cream

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

When: July 20

Humphrey Slocombe - Giveaway and Buy Two Pints Get One Free

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

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

When: July 1-7

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

When: Hurry, offer ends July 16th!

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

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

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

Summer Flavors:

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

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

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

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

When: July 20

Kilwins - Sweepstakes

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

When: From July 20-31

Klondike Bar - Digital Coupons

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

Marble Slab Creamery - Free Scoop!

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

When: July 20

McDonald's

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

When: thru 8/11

Milk Bar

The Scoop: new Lemon Meringue Pie Soft Serve available!

 My/Mochi - Great giveaways!

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

Petco - Free pup cups!

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

When: July 20

Popsicle - BOGO

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

When: All July long

Salt and Straw - Free Scoop!

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

When: July 14-20

Smitten Ice Cream

Smitten Ice Cream - Free Ice Cream

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

When: July 10 4-6pm

Steak 'N Shake - 1/2 Price

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

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

Talenti - BOGO

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

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

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

TCBY

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

Van Leeuwen Kraft Macaroni and cheese ice cream

Van Leeuwen - Discount Scoops and Giveaways

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

This is your summer flavor itinerary:

• Strawberry Yuzu Cheesecake

• Sweet Corn & Blueberry Jam

• Mango Sorbet

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

• City Point, Brooklyn (NY) - July 10

• Ponce City Market, Atlanta (GA)

• Hoboken (NJ)

• Northshore Mall (MA)

• Brooklyn Heights, Brooklyn (NY)

Wendy’s - Free Frosty

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

Whole Foods/Instacart

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

When: July 2-16

Yogurtland - Double Points

The Scoop: Earn double points in store or online!

When: July 20

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

When: Through July 13

Your Pie Pizza - FREE Scoop!

The Scoop: Free Gelato scoop today!

When: July 20

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

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

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

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

Bruster’s Christmas in July Celebration

Bruster’s Real Ice Cream - Rancho Cucamunga

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

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

The Scoop: Loyalty members get double points

When: National Ice Cream Weekend July 18-20th

Carmela Ice Cream Co

Capri Gelato and Coffee

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

Fosselman’s Ice Cream

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

Frozen Fruit Co

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

When: Available until this Friday

McConnell’s Fine Ice Creams

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

Use code SMS5 for $5 off your first order

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

• Santa Barbara - both State Street locations

• Downtown Los Angeles

• Studio City

• Third Street Promenade

• San Luis Obispo

• San Juan Capistrano

• Carlsbad

Rori's Artisanal Creamery - Extra Scoop!

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

When: Sunday, July 20

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

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

• Montecito: 12 - 7p.m.

• Santa Barbara: 12 - 7p.m.

• Santa Monica: 12 - 7p.m.

• Carpinteria: 11a.m. - 7p.m.

• Camarillo: 12 - 5p.m.

• Arroyo Grande: 12 - 7p.m.

• Ventura: 12 - 7p.m.

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

SWEET ROSE CREAMERY

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

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

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

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

Locations: Brentwood, Hollywood, Santa Monica, Venice

Wanderlust Creamery

Wanderlust Creamery - BOGO

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

When: Sunday, July 20

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NATIONAL ICE CREAM DAY EVENTS

Sprinkle Pool - Museum of Ice Cream Los Angeles

MUSEUM OF ICE CREAM 

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

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

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

ICE CREAM ALLEY at Smorgasburg LA

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

Find a rotating crew of special popup vendors like:

• Jeni's Splendid Ice Creams

• Sweet Rose Creamery

• McConnell's Fine Ice Creams

• Blast Ice Cream

• Afters Ice Cream

• Madame Shugah (all vegan)

• And more!

Plus Smorgasburg LA regulars:

• Wanderlust Creamery

• Donut Friend (all vegan)

• Yellow Business - HK Egg Waffle

• Churro Boss

• Sweet n' Hollow

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

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

ICE CREAM DELIVERY ON NATIONAL ICE CREAM DAY

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

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

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MAKE YOUR OWN ICE CREAM OR THROW AN ICE CREAM SOCIAL

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

Every good scoop from home deserves a good scooper!

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

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Afters Ice Cream

Brief History of National Ice Cream Day

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

Now, let's EAT! 

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

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

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

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MORE ICE CREAM POSTS? Yes PLEASE!!!

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

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

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

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

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

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Where to Stay in Oahu

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Hilton Hawaiian Village Entrance with traditional dancer statues

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

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

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

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

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

I bumped into my friends Chip and Dale at Aulani!

Day trip in Honolulu: Visit Disney’s Aulani

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

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

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

Why the Hula-Hoopla about Aulani?

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

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

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

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

Public Beach right next to Disney Aulani in Hawaii

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Lappert’s has the best flavors in Hawaii!

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

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

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

Why the Hula-Baloo about Lappert's?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Food and Restaurants on Oahu

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

See our full review: Monkeypod Kitchen

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Food trucks!

Monkeypod Honolulu

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

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Top of Diamond Head views

View of Diamond head from our room

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

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

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

A Little History to Get You Geologically Pumped:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Views from the top of Diamond Head

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

THis navigational Lighthouse was built in 1917

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Visit Pearl Harbor

The USS Bowfin Submarine was one of my faves!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

4. The USS Oklahoma Memorial: Honoring the Forgotten Ship

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

5. The Pearl Harbor Visitor Center: Setting the Stage

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

Pearl Harbor famous statue

A Few Extra Tips for Your Visit:

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

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

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

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

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

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

Honolulu Zoo and Aquarium

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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More Hawaii? Here you go!

TOP 10 BEST THINGS TO DO IN MAUI, HAWAII | You can't miss...

THE BEST ACTIVITIES AND THINGS TO DO IN MAUI

Snorkel at Black Rock to see plenty of fish and Hawaiian Green sea turtles!

Before you go, check out everything you need to pack for Hawaii here: Packing Checklist for Hawaii

We have traveled to Maui every year since 2013 and try to find something new to do every time. Although it is a small island, there is a lot to see! The island of Maui, with its lush rainforests, dramatic volcanic landscapes, and pristine beaches, offers an unforgettable vacation experience. Whether you're seeking adventure, relaxation, or a taste of Hawaiian culture, Maui has something for everyone.

In this blog post, we'll explore some of the best things to do in Maui, from sightseeing and exploring the Road to Hana to swimming with Hawaiian green sea turtles and indulging in delicious local cuisine. So, pack your bags, grab your sunscreen, and get ready to discover the sweet escape to Maui!

1. Embarking on the Hana Highway: A Maui Adventure Awaits

The Road to Hana, a winding ribbon of asphalt snaking along Maui's northeastern coast, is more than just a drive – it's an unforgettable journey. Prepare for breathtaking coastal cliffs, lush rainforests, cascading waterfalls, and hidden black sand beaches. This iconic route is a true test of patience, but the rewards are immense.

There are so many sights to see along the island of Maui and Hana Highway is a perfect full-day activity to see its beauty. Some of our favorite stops include and amount of time you should spend there in parenthesis:

1. Black Sand Beach (60 mins)

2. Lava Tubes (30 mins)

3. Red Sand Beach (30 mins)

4. Coconut Glen's ice cream (15 mins)

5. Haleakala National Park (2 hours - if you do the long hike, and swim in the seven sacred pools)

Check out our complete guide to the Road to Hana with mile marker stops, a map, and video - Road to Hana Guide

Let someone else drive since you’re on vacation! Book a Road to Hana Tour so you can sit back and enjoy the ride!

Don’t forget to pack your reef safe sunblock and a cute hat!

Think Sport Sunscreen

Our favorite sunblock and reef safe! Buy on AMAZON.COM

Hello Sunshine Sun Hat

On AMAZON.com

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2. Go Snorkeling

The best part about the end of the Kaanapali beach is the Black Rock, which is located right in front of the Sheraton Maui 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 Hawaiian sea turtle or two!

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 next to Merriman's Kapalua, but make sure you get there early for a spot.

Take a day trip to Molokini Crater for some of the best Hawaiian reef snorkeling! Book this snorkel tour!

See the full list of spots in our Best Snorkel Spots and beaches in Maui post (video included)!

Pro-tip: Ship snorkel gear straight to the hotel! I personally use a Cressi snorkel mask is incredible for snorkeling! You can find more in our Amazon Storefront!

Snorkeling with green Hawaiian Sea turtles in Kapalua Bay

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3. Nakalele Blowhole

As the tide rolls in, the blowhole shoots water over 20 feet in the air! Located North of Kapalua (approx 8 miles), park near mile marker 38.5.

Sad news, as of January 2020, the Heart Rock has washed away and is only half a heart! :(

However, the blowhole is still there and that’s fun! :)

WARNING: DO NOT GET TOO CLOSE TO THE BLOWHOLE, IT CAN SUCK YOU IN! It’s nice to admire from a few feet away.

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4. Catch the Sunrise at the Top of Haleakala Crater

We left our hotel around 3am and went on a crazy drive to the top of Haleakala at 10,000 feet, but it was worth it for this magnificent sunrise above the clouds. Side note - Josh proposed to me here!

YOU MUST HAVE A RESERVATION IF YOU ARE GOING TO THE TOP OF HALEAKALA BEFORE 7AM!

Make Your Sunrise Reservation - Reservations are available online up to 60 days in advance of your sunrise visit on recreation.gov. More info here: Haleakala Sunrise

• A visitor may only purchase one sunrise reservation per three-day period.

• A small number of last-minute tickets are released online two days beforehand.

There are also great Haleakala Tours that will take you to the top (after all, you’re on vacation). If you’re adventurous, there are tours that will take you to the top to see the sunrise, then coast back down to the bottom on a bicycle!

Don’t like to get up early? I don’t blame you! Sunset is lovely too and after it sets you are in the perfect setting for stargazing! Look up for the Milky Way!

Pro-tip: BRING A SWEATSHIRT! It gets really cold at 10,000 feet!

See more details and our full itinerary: How to Spend 4 Days in Maui

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5. Go Scuba Diving

We loved scuba diving with the company, Extended Horizons in Lahaina. Not only do they go to the best spots but also have the best dive guides! The dive site, Cathedral I, was one of my favorite dives - we went in a cave! See our video compilation and reviews here: Best Scuba Dive Sites in Maui

We even achieved our advanced certification with Extended Horizons. We did a night dive which we saw so many crustaceans and fish with the glow of a flashlight while also experiencing the glow from bioluminescence.

Not certified? Maui Ocean Center, The Aquarium of Hawaii, is also a great place to go under the sea without getting wet! Located in Maalaea, which you’ll most likely pass to and from the airport, see the largest tropical reef aquarium in the Western Hemisphere!

Pro Tip: Whale watching is also fun during the months from November to May! Maui charters will do sunset cruises, or day cruises. Look out for humpback whales!

Please protect the reefs and get reef-safe sunscreen:

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6. Get a Massage

Need I say more? We like to do the couples massages at the Spa at Black Rock at the Sheraton Maui Resort and Spa, which is also our favorite place to stay. There are many locations around the resort to get a massage – the spa, lawn, or even near the beach, anywhere you go, you won’t regret it. You’re on vacation, you deserve it!

Check out our Hotel Review: Sheraton Maui Resort and 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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7. Go shopping and have some great food!

Lahaina – The fire in 2023 was beyond devastating to Maui and unfortunately most of the shops on Front Street are no longer there. There is the Lahaina Cannery Mall with a few stores, food trucks in the parking lot, and they often have cultural Hawaiian events!

Make sure you visit the Banyan tree, a gorgeous tree that covers over half an acre! It survived the fires, thankfully!

Whalers Village - Located on Kaanapali Beach right next to the Westin. Here you will find shops you would normally see in most malls (Oakley, Sephora, Tommy Bahama) but also has restaurants (Hula Grill, Monkeypod, Leilani’s, fast food options) and of course, an ABC Store.

Whalers Village - Kaanapali - Maui, Hawaii

Sand People – I have to mention this shop as it is only found in Hawaii. It’s like an Etsy store full of coastal home goods, locally made jewelry and clothing. My FAVORITE! There are a few - Whaler’s Village and Front Street in Lahaina.

The Shops at Wailea - Located among the hotels along Wailea beach, you’ll find restaurants (Lineage, Tommy Bahama, Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse, Cheeseburger in Paradise), clothing shops, a market, and ABC Store.

Related Post - Check out our favorite restaurants here: Best Maui Restaurants

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8. Get Some Hawaiian Shave Ice

Shaved ice + flavored syrups + macadamia nut ice cream in the bottom = YUM!

There are so many locations all over Maui, you really can’t go wrong with any of them! My favorite combo is pineapple and coconut syrup with macadamia nut ice cream in the bottom – pretty much an ice cream pina colada (minus the alcohol)!

Pro-tip: The Shaved Ice location in Whalers Village (Ka’anapali Beach) has spoons that change colors with the temperature!

HAWAIIAN SHAVE ICE MAUI HAWAII

Also, check out my favorite ice cream place, Coconut Glen's Ice Cream!

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9. Go Zip-lining

There are a lot of places that offer zip-lining, yet we went to the original (they even have zipline.com)! We used Kaanapali Zip Line Adventure, known for their award-winning 8-line, and had a blast. Stunning views from Lahaina to Kaanapali and 8 different lines cascading down the mountain! At the end of your last zip line you can drop into a lake! Our guides were so nice and had so much energy that we laughing the whole time! Check out these other great tours as well: Zipline Adventures

Don’t forget your GoPro! You can even get a mount for your helmet!

GoPro HERO7 Silver — Waterproof Digital Action Camera with Touch Screen 4K HD Video 10MP Photos

On AMAZON.com

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10. Enjoy a Lu'au

DRUMS OF THE PACIFIC LU'AU HYATT

The Drums of the Pacific Lu'au encompasses Hawaiian traditions with fun! The Rhythms of the Polynesian ritual will have you dancing along at the Hyatt Regency Maui on Kaanapali Beach. A traditional Hawaiian feast is served buffet style with an open bar and is better than the Lahaina Luau. Despite the fact the drinks are a little watered down, I found it highly entertaining and was captivated by the fast-moving hips to the beat of the drum in the traditional Hawaiian dance. Find a luau near you: Best Maui Luaus

How about a festive outfit for the evening:

Before you go, check out everything you need to pack for Hawaii here: Packing Checklist for Hawaii

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Ice Cream Review: The Dolly Llama - Los Angeles

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

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

• ICE CREAM SPOT: DOLLY LLAMA

• LOCATIONS: Across the US

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

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

• Dietary Restrictions: Vegan option always available

• Take-out: Local delivery service available

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Dolly Llama Menu

More reasons…

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

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

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

Dolly Llama Ice Cream options

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

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

Ice Cream Artist at work!

AND TA DAAAAAAAA!

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

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

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

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

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

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Another scoop please!

St Patrick's Day Ice Cream 2024 - Shamrock Your Sweet Tooth

Shamrock Your Sweet Tooth: A St. Patrick's Day Ice Cream Extravaganza!

St. Patrick's Day is just around the corner, and what better way to celebrate the luck of the Irish than with a scoop (or two) of delicious ice cream? This year, there's a pot of gold at the end of the rainbow for your taste buds, with festive flavors popping up at all your favorite ice cream spots. So, get ready to shamrock your sweet tooth with these magically delicious treats!

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Lucky Charms Ice Cream at the end of the rainbow - St Patrick’s day ice cream at Coldstones

Cold Stone Creamery: Lucky Charms Ice Cream at the End of the Rainbow

Cold Stone is serving up a flavor that's magically delicious (I need this shirt, btw)! Their Lucky Charms ice cream is packed with those colorful marshmallow bits you know and love, and it's topped with even more for good measure. Plus, a sprinkle of gold glitter makes it look like you found the pot of gold at the rainbow's end! They've also got a "Sprinkled with Charms" shake for those who prefer a sippable celebration. Don't be a fool and miss out on this one.

Find your closest Coldstone Location

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McDonald's Shamrock Shake and Oreo Shamrock McFlurry

It’s Shamrock Shake Season! The Shamrock Shake is a minty masterpiece that's perfect for cooling down on a spring day. Plus, the iconic green color adds a festive touch to your St. Patrick's Day celebrations. Don’t be shy to try the Oreo Shamrock McFlurry (about $4; prices are set by individual restaurants), which comes with crushed Oreo cookies! Just be sure to grab one before they disappear faster than a leprechaun!

McDonalds locations

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Salt & Straw: Pots of Gold and Rainbows - Seeing Rainbows Pack

Salt & Straw: Pots of Gold and Rainbows

If you're looking for something a little more unique, Salt & Straw has you covered with their limited-edition "Pots of Gold and Rainbows" ice cream. This whimsical flavor combines a hand-sort of luck from the charms, steeping the whole-grain cereal in cream for that bottom-of-the-bowl sweetened milk before stirring in mountains of rainbow ‘mallows. It's a flavor explosion that will have you feeling like you've struck gold!

Get it by the scoop or order the Seeing Rainbows pack - 5 pints!

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Dairy Queen: Mint Brownie Blizzard and Under the Rainbow Shake

Dairy Queen: Mint Brownie Blizzard and Under the Rainbow Shake

The Under the Rainbow Shake features a "mixture of magical strawberry flavor and rainbow sprinkles blended with creamy DQ vanilla soft serve with whipped topping and rainbow sprinkles," while the Mint Brownie Blizzard includes "a delicious combination of rich, chocolatey brownie pieces, choco chunks, and cool mint blended to perfection with DQ’s world-famous vanilla soft serve." Both be making a comeback to menus for a limited time.

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Ben & Jerry’s: Dublin Mudslide

Ben & Jerry’s: Dublin Mudslide

Don't forget about the classic Dublin Mudslide from Ben & Jerry’s! This Irish cream ice cream with chocolate chip cookies & coffee fudge swirls is the perfect way to indulge your sweet tooth and celebrate St. Patty's Day. You can buy it by the pint at Target or Amazon.

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So, there you have it! With all these delicious options, you're sure to find the perfect St. Patrick's Day ice cream treat to make your holiday extra sweet. Remember, it's not just about the green, it's about finding the flavor that makes you happy and brings a little bit of magic to your day. So grab a spoon and get ready to celebrate – after all, it's not every day you get to indulge in a sweet treat that's the pot of gold at the end of the rainbow!

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How about another scoop?!

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

Star Noodle Restaurant Views - Front Street

Updated January 12, 2026

Star Noodle

Location: 1287 Front St, Lahaina, HI 96761

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

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

Pork Buns at Star Noodle

Star Noodle Location in 2026

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

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

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

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

Reservation Recommended

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

Star Noodle Menu

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

Star Noodle Menu

Don’t miss these Appetizers at Star Noodle

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

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

Nuoc Cham Wings - Chicken Wings at Star Noodle

Entrees You Must try at Star Noodle

Always ask if there are any specials!

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

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

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

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

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

These Star Noodle Desserts are the BEST

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

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

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

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

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Star Noodle Restaurant Review

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More Maui posts

11 Best Ice Cream Trucks and Catering in Los Angeles

Ice Cream Trucks you need to try in LA!

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

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

King Kone Ice Cream Soft Serve

King Kone Ice Cream Truck

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

CVT Soft Serve Truck

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

Recess Ice Cream Truck

Recess Ice Cream Truck

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

Van Leeuwen Ice Cream Truck

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

McConnell’s Fine Ice Creams Truck

McConnell’s Fine Ice Cream Truck

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

Blast Ice Cream Truck

Blast Ice Cream Truck

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

Happy Ice Truck

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

Oat-ly Ice Cream Truck

Oat-ly Ice Cream Truck

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

Kona Shaved Ice Truck

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

Sweet N Hollow Chimney Cake

Sweet N' Hollow

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

You can often find them at Smorgasburg DTLA!

SuperCool Creamery

SuperCool Creamery

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

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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 Los Angeles Posts:

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

Rori’s Artisanal Creamery - Century City

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

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

• Website: rorisartisanalcreamery.com

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

• Dietary Restrictions: Vegan ice cream options available

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

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Rori’s Artisanal Creamery Ice Cream Cone

LA Ice Cream Natives

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

Rori’s Ice Cream Menu

Rori’s Ice Cream Menu

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

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

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

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

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

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

You MUST try the Wildberry Chocolate Crisp and Malted Milk ball

GET FREE ICE CREAM ON YOUR BIRTHDAY

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

Rori’s Ice Cream Locations

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

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Need another scoop? Try these:

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

Halo Top Scoop Shop

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Halo Top Scoop Shop - Century City - PERMANENTLY CLOSED

Halo Top Scoop Shop Menu Flavors

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

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

Halo Top Scoop Shop Menu

Halo Top Ice Cream Scoop Shop

Halo Top Scoop Shop Menu

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

Toppings bar at Halo Top

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

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

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

Ice Cream Review: Giapo Haute Ice Cream

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

• Website: Giapo Ice Cream

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

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

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

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

Giapo Ice Cream in Auckland, New Zealand

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

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

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

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

Giapo Ice Cream Shop

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

Sassy Ice Cream Scooper! Loved her!

Giapo Ice Cream Menu

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

Giapo Ice Cream Menu

Giapo Squid Ice Cream Cone - @giapokitchen Instagram

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

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

Giapo Ice Cream Menu 2020

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

Ice cream artists scooping and designing away!

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

Giapo New Zealand Ice Cream

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

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

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

Ice Cream Scoop Shop Review: Little Damage

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

• Website: littledamage.com

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

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

• Dietary Restrictions: Vegan option always available

• Take-out: Local delivery service available

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

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

ABOUT LITTLE DAMAGE

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

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

LITTLE DAMAGE ICE CREAM QUOTES

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

“I licked it, so it’s mine”

“Cute but psycho, but cute”

“I like love you”

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

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

HOW IT TO ORDER AT LITTLE DAMAGE

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

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

LITTLE DAMAGE IS SOCIAL MEDIA FRIENDLY

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

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

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

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Ice Cream Review: Little Damage Ice Cream DTLA

More Ice Cream Related Posts:

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

6 Best Instagram Ice Cream Spots in LA

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

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

After’s Ice Cream in Venice

Afters Ice Cream

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

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

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

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

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Little Damage Ice Cream - Downtown LA

Little Damage

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

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

See our full review here: LITTLE DAMAGE ICE CREAM REVIEW

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Milk Bar LA

Milk Bar

Location: 7150 Melrose Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90046

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

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

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Sloan’s Ice Cream Shop

Sloan’s Ice Cream

Locations: Santa Monica and Woodland Hills

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

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Bumsan Organic Milk Bar

Bumsan Organic Milk Bar

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

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

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SomiSomi Ah-Boong Fish Shaped Waffle Cone with Ice Cream

SomiSomi Soft Serve and Taiyaki

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

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

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

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

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

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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:

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

More ice cream posts please!

Ice Cream for a Cause from an Ice Cream Doctor

I think I found my dream job, I want to be an Ice Cream Doctor when I grow up! Dr. Maya Warren, known as “The Ice Cream Doctor,” and Mona Lipson have teamed up, using ice cream to make a difference in the world! Also, check out how the heck you can become an ice cream scientist as well as myths about ice cream and healthy eating. An ice cream diet is life!

Ice Cream for Change

Ice Cream for Change

Ice Cream for Change is a platform created by Dr. Maya Warren, also known as “The Ice Cream Doctor” and the face of ice cream, as well as Mona B. Lipson, AKA Miss Mona Makes Ice Cream, to bring together ice cream lovers and makers advocating for social change and civic action. From dismantling racial injustice to fighting climate change, their goal is to use the power of ice cream (it really does have a special way of bringing people together) as a force for good by helping to raise money and awareness for organizations that are driving solutions and making a real-world impact across the globe.

Learn more by visiting www.icecreamforchange.org

Dr. Maya Warren on HOW does someone become an ice cream scientist?

• Anyone can become an ice cream scientist through passion and being determined enough to do it. You can go to college for the pedigree of knowledge in food science or chemistry. 

• You don’t need to get a PhD. You can get a master’s and have the same distinction, but if you “want to make a solid connection with ice cream to be an ice cream scientist” getting the PhD is one way to go. You’ll never forget all the little details and the impact every single ingredient has on a product in ice cream. 

• A lot of becoming an ice cream scientist is following your passion to become an ice cream scientist. Work hard. 

• Work smarter, not harder, and do what you need to do to get to the next level.

• Know what you want to do with your degree. If you want to be an expert and consult people, so they call on you to fill certain issues, the PhD helps elevate you. 

• The road to get a PhD is very different for different people. I would highly recommend people follow what their passion is and figure out what they want to do with your degree. 

• Know what the PhD behind your name means. When I go to countries and speak, that degree comes with more respect. Getting this degree is just something I did. I never wanted to go back to school, and now I don’t need to!

Dr. Maya Warren on the biggest myths about Ice Cream and healthy eating?

(proof that ice cream is good for you! 😉 Huzzah!)

1. Not everything on the shelf is ice cream - in the US, Ice cream has to be 10% or more milk fat. So we have all these non-dairy products, which in the science world, we call frozen errated desserts. The word ice cream isn’t on these containers when you look closely at them

2. Frozen errated desserts - you can make these desserts with any kind of milk. If you don’t want to use cow's milk, you don’t have to, but the fats that are in other dairy products are different from cow fat, so the texture will be different. Depending on what the animals eat, this will change the taste of the milk, making the ice cream taste different too.

3. Dairy replacers - coconut fat is better than others because it behaves similarly to milk fat. It gives a good texture.

4. All ice cream at room temperature melts - that has to do with the microstructure of the product. Even if it doesn’t look like it it’s melting, it is. Just at a slower rate because of the ingredients inside of it

5. Sugar substitutes - Not all ice creams are made the same. They don’t all have the same amount of sugar. If you’re diabetic, going with something with a sugar substitute may be better, but it can mess with your digestive system.

6. The big word ingredients aren’t always bad - These ingredients help for many different reasons. One being so it doesn’t melt right away. Other ingredients explain why freezer burn happens in some ice cream, but not all.

7. You don’t have to have a machine to make ice cream! You can control what you put in homemade ice cream. If you want to use alternative sweeteners, you can! You can put real fruit in with some agave or honey, maybe even water. The fruit might be sweet enough to put inside without a lot of sugar! In order to freeze your ice cream though, you do need some sort of sweetener. Otherwise, you’ll end up with something that’s too solid. One way I like to think about it is this: If you live in a cold state, they use salt to melt the snow. For ice cream, you use sugar so it can melt.

National Ice Cream Day 2020

This year, Ice Cream for Change brought the ice cream community together including scoop shops, ice cream companies, and home ice cream makers to help raise funds for organizations leading the fight to help dismantle structural and systemic racism. I saw so many scoop shops including some of my favorites such as MILK, Smitten Ice Cream, Coolhaus, all offering to donate to organizations such NAACP, Center for Healing Racism, Showing Up For Racial Justice, and others advocating for social change & civic action.

What’s next?!

Follow Dr. Maya Warren on Instagram and join her on Ice Cream Sundays for some ice cream fun and great recipes to enjoy with the family! Stayed tuned for more from her!

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More Ice Cream posts here:

Ice Cream Scoop Shop Review: Supercool Creamery | Los Angeles, CA

Supercool Creamery

SUPERCOOL CREAMERY

• Location: 4469 Sunset Dr, Los Angeles, CA 90027

• Website: supercoolcreamery.com

• Pricing: Hearty scoop and show make it worth the price!

• Dietary Restrictions: Dairy-free Options Available

• Take-out: Local delivery service available

NOTE: They are TEMPORARILY CLOSED! I’m spreading the word so you can come back when they reopen!

With a name like SuperCool, I wasn’t sure what to expect! I was pleasantly surprised when we walked in and the ice cream artists were dressed like performers and put on quite a show!

SUPERCOOL ICE CREAM MENU AND FLAVORS

STEP RIGHT UP! The best ice cream can be found within! With the magic of liquid nitrogen (which is -320 degrees), the cream base I chose, turned into ice cream before my eyes. They call it nitro-artisan ice cream made by hand - yeah, that’s accurate! They have great flavor options such as Key lime with dark rum, Coconut Chocolate Chip, Coffee Toffee, and Berry Sorbet (dairy-free). You can always get a float or a shake if you’re in the mood! It took me a while to figure out what I wanted, but I ended up with Coffee Toffee!

Supercool Menu - so many great flavors!

Here is a little video from my adventure:

THE ICE CREAM MAGICIAN

Once I had my selection, the ice cream magician went to work. Ok, I don’t know if that’s what they actually call themselves, but go with it… He was so animated and funny, it was definitely an experience and not just going into Baskin Robbins for a scoop. Even shops like Creamistry or Smitten will use a mixer of some sort, but Supercool does it by hand!

SUPERCOOL CREAMERY LOCATION AND CATERING

Located in Silver Lake, they are right next to the Vista Theater. I noticed the ice cream sign, otherwise, I would have thought it was part of the theater! They also cater events and parties which would probably be really fun as the ice cream magicians are so enthusiastic! They’ll even spike their ice cream for events, so keep that in mind for your next party! I know I will!

Ta DA!

Supercool is a win in my book! Check them out when you can!

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20 Best Ice Cream Scoop Shops in Los Angeles - Ranked and Map Included!

20 Best Ice Cream Scoop Shops open and delivery options in LA (with map)!

It’s that time of year again! July is National Ice Cream Month and I’m here to celebrate despite the state of the world at the moment! Ice cream is my happy place and I think we all need a little happiness these days!

NATIONAL ICE CREAM DAY is JULY 19, 2020!

See our post on where to find FREE scoops and deals: National Ice Cream Day 2020

I’ve ranked my favorite shops (best to last), and have even included a map for you to access anytime, anywhere in LA! I’m also adding in where you can get pints to go, as it is still very important to wear masks and social distance. Find the “best ice cream places open near me” by using the map below!

Looking for vegan and dairy-free ice cream options? I have those too! Now let’s get scoopin’!

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Strawberry Rhubarb and Blood Orange

GINGER’S DIVINE ICE CREAMS

• Location: West LA - 12550 W. Washington Boulevard, Los Angeles, CA 90066

• Website: gingersicecream.com

• Pricing: Great value for amazing homemade ice cream

• Dietary Restrictions: Vegan ice cream options available

• Take-out: Homemade cookies, pops, brownies, and pints to go are also available here as well!

I discovered the best-kept secret on the Westside called Ginger's Divine Ice Creams! Ginger herself creates all ice creams and is often found at farmer’s markets in the area for the best local ingredients that are California homegrown. So many fresh flavors such as Strawberry Rhubarb, Chocolate Covered Crack, Oaxaca Habanero, "The Dude" White Russian, Unicorn Cotton Candy, it’s hard to choose and you’ll want to return again and again! Her flavors are inventive and different from other scoop shops, see her latest mashups here: Gingers Divine Ice Cream Flavors.

I’m gonna call it the Best Ice Cream in Los Angeles and my favorite ice cream in LA!

See the full review here: Ice Cream Review: Ginger’s Divine Ice Creams

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Rainbow Buttermilk on top of Cream Puff

JENI’S ICE CREAMS

• LA Locations: Santa Monica, Larchmont, Calabasas, Los Feliz (see more on their site)

• Website: jenis.com

• Pricing: Great value for artisan ice cream flavors ($6 for a split scoop)

• Dietary Restrictions: Vegan and dairy-free ice cream options available

• Take-out: Pints are available to go or you can order online! NEW: You can even find some flavors in select stores!

Jeni’s flavors are out of this world! A true artisan ice cream confectionary that started in Ohio and has made its way to California! So many flavors to choose from including Blackout Chocolate Cake, Boston Cream Pie, Cream Puff, Frozé, Coffee with Cream and Sugar, and Salted Peanut Butter with Chocolate Flecks… literally, try them all!

New flavors are featured each month (Jeni’s Ice Cream Flavors) and get this, you can even have an ice cream subscription and have ice cream delivered to your house monthly! Happy to help you eat them.

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SALT AND STRAW

• LA Locations: Downtown LA, Mid-city (Beverly near Fairfax), WeHo, Studio City, Venice

• Website: saltandstraw.com

• Pricing: On the higher side, but the ingredients are more complex

• Dietary Restrictions: Vegan ice cream options available

• Take-out: Pints are available to go or you can order online

I LOVE Salt and Straw! So many interesting Classic Los Angeles Flavors including Roasted Strawberry & Toasted White Chocolate, Honey Lavender, Almond Brittle with Salted Ganache, Black Olive Brittle & Goat Cheese, Freckled Mint TCHO-colate Chip, and Dandelion Chocolate Hazelnut Cookies & Cream).

They also offer about 6 new rotating flavors every month! Don’t forget to come back for their Thanksgiving series in November - try the mashed potatoes with gravy or the stuffing! Weird but good!

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Sloan’s Ice Cream with snowcaps!

Sloan’s Ice Cream

• LA Locations: Santa Monica and Woodland Hills

• Website: sloansicecream.com

• Pricing: Moderate price for a scoop and topping!

• Dietary Restrictions: Vegan ice cream options available

• Take-out: Try UberEats, Postmates, Doordash!

SLOAN’S IS GOALS! This place is pink, pretty, and has all the goodies! Not only do they have tons of different flavors of ice cream like Almond Joy, Mom’s Apple Pie, and Chocolate Cookie Cheesecake, but they have baked goods, chocolates, and candy too!

Bring some friends, and I dare you to eat TRACY’S KITCHEN SINK - ultimate sundae with everything including the kitchen sink – 18 scoops of ice cream, all of the deluxe toppings, 4 cookies, 4 brownies, gobs of whipped cream & cherries – all served in a real sink! Best ice cream in Santa Monica!

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SWEET ROSE CREAMERY

• Locations: Mid-city (Beverly near Fairfax), Brentwood, Palisades, Santa Monica

• Pricing: The sundae is the best bang for your buck

• Dietary Restrictions: Dairy-free ice cream options available

• Take-out: Pints and ice cream cakes are available to go!

I’ve loved Sweet Rose Creamery for a long time! Not only do they make their own ice cream in house, they make all their cones and toppings as well! Favorites include: Peanut Butter Fudge, Fresh Mint Chip (so fresh and made from mint extract - also, it’s not green!), Toasted Coconut. Check out their current flavors here: Sweet Rose Creamery Flavors

Ice cream pints, homemade toppings, ice cream cakes, party packs and other frozen treats can be delivered straight to your door through Postmates, Uber Eats, Grubhub, Doordash and Caviar!

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Frozen Rose

WANDERLUST CREAMERY

• Locations: Tarzana, Atwater Village, Venice

• Website: Wanderlust Creamery

• Pricing: Great value for your ice cream!

• Dietary Restrictions: Vegan ice cream options available

• Take-out: Pints are available to go

Wanderlust Creamery is literally my dream ice cream shop, combining my favorite things, ice cream and travel! Their motto is A DESTINATION IN EVERY SCOOP and flavors are amazing concoctions using ingredients from around the world. To give you a taste, you can try flavors like Vegan Sticky Rice Mango inspired by Thailand, Abuelita Malted Crunch inspired by LA, Japanese Neapolitan, Violet Marshmallow inspired by France. Don’t miss out on their Ube cone (made from yams, another weird but good combo) and their monthly flavors: Wanderlust Creamery Monthly Flavors.

Don’t miss them at Smorgasburg LA over the weekends in Downtown LA (when they resume after social distance rules have lifted). Hopefully, they come back this summer in time for Ice Cream Alley!

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MAGPIES

• Locations: Silver Lake and Tarzana

• Website: magpiessoftserve.com

• Pricing: A cone with a topping is decently priced!

• Dietary Restrictions: Vegan soft serve options available

• Take-out: Soft serve in a cup or pints, pies and more! Use Postmates or UberEats!

The owners of Magpies went to a Dairy Queen one day and came up with the idea to make a chef-y soft serve. They hit the nail on the head! Instead of chocolate or vanilla, you can get exquisite flavors such as Malted Milk Chocolate, Sweet Cream, Corn Almond (Vegan - Almond Milk), Brown Sugar Vanilla (Vegan - Oat Milk), Blueberry Pie (Vegan - Oat Milk), or Apple Pie! They even make soft serve pies which were perfect for birthdays at work! All toppings are made in house, including Butterscotch Rice Krispies, Chocolate Covered Honeycomb (Vegan), Brownie Bites (Vegan), and Graham Cracker Streusel - to name a few!

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Brown Sugar Vanilla Bean & Fresh Mint CHip

CARMELA ICE CREAM

• Locations: Mid-city and Pasadena

• Website: carmelaicecream.com

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

• Dietary Restrictions: Vegan ice cream options available

• Take-out: Pints, Quarts, and ice cream sandwiches - Uber Eats and Doordash!

This shop is classy, pretty, and feels like an ice cream parlor. They make all their own flavors (favorites include Brown Sugar Vanilla Bean, Intelligentsia Espresso, Salted Caramel, White Peach Vanilla Bean), and you can smell the fresh waffle cones once you step in the door! See their seasonal flavors here: Carmela Flavors

Get a cone, an ice cream sandwich, or try their delicious coffee, something for everyone! You can even take an ice cream class and make your own ice cream!

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Wild Berry Chocolate Crisp and Malted Milk English Toffee

RORI’S ARTISANAL CREAMERY

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

• Website: rorisartisanalcreamery.com

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

• Dietary Restrictions: Vegan ice cream options available

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

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

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

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Peppermint Stick

VAN LEEUWEN ICE CREAM

• Locations: Hollywood, Silverlake, Downtown LA, Culver City, and a Food Truck!

• Website: vanleeuwenicecream.com

• Pricing: More on the expensive side but really creamy exquisite ice cream.

• Dietary Restrictions: LOTS of Vegan ice cream options available

• Take-out: Pints can be delivered nationwide with Goldbelly or locally by delivery service (Doordash, UberEats, etc.)

I first tried Van Leeuwen ice cream in New York many moons ago! I was so excited when they first had a food truck and then shops started to pop up! I love their fun flavors which are pretty classic but mighty tasty: Chocolate Fudge Brownie, Cookies & Cream, Honeycomb, PB Marshmallow Crunch, Pistachio, and Salted Carmel to name a few. There are a lot of vegan options here! Seasonal flavors are also offered here, I love the Peppermint Stick during Winter, right now, keep up with their seasonal flavors here: Van Leeuwen Flavors.

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MILK SHOP

• Locations: Beverly and Silverlake

  • Beverly - 7290 BEVERLY BLVD., LOS ANGELES, CA 90036

  • Silverlake - 1639 SILVER LAKE BLVD., LOS ANGELES, CA 90026

• Website: themilkshop.com

• Pricing: Get an ice cream sandwich!

• Take-out: See their website for their delivery menu which includes cookies, cakes, pints, scoops of ice cream, and ice cream sandwiches

All ice creams and sorbets are made from scratch in their kitchen in LA from locally sourced products! You have to try their ice cream sandwiches! See all the best combinations here: Ice Cream Sandwich Flavors

Best ice cream sandwich combo: Fruity Pebbles, Grasshopper (mint), and California Strawberry - YUM!

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Coffee caramel and red velvet cupcake with sprinkles on top

LITTLE DAMAGE

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

• Website: littledamage.com

• Pricing: Great price for soft serve. Take a free picture in the photo booth!

• Dietary Restrictions: Dairy-free ice cream options available

• Take-out: take-out is available

This family-owned soft-serve ice cream shop is located in the heart of DTLA, known for its signature charcoal cones with an impressive rotating list of unique flavors. My favorite combo: Coffee caramel and red velvet cupcake with sprinkles on top. The cookies and cream flavor is really good too!

Their trendy ice cream is prepared daily in small batches, using local ingredients supplied by organic dairy farmers. The signature black ice cream cones are naturally colored with activated charcoal, and hand-rolled minutes before you get one.

See our full review here: LITTLE DAMAGE ICE CREAM REVIEW

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McConnell’s Ice Cream - Silver Lake

McCONNELLS FINE ICE CREAMS

• Locations: Downtown LA, Silver Lake, Studio City

• Website: mcconnells.com

• Pricing: Fair pricing for good flavors! I’ll get a pint now and again!

• Dietary Restrictions: Dairy-free Ice Cream Options Available

• Take-out: Pints are available for take-out and delivery. You can also find them in select grocery stores! See their site for more info! Join their Pint of the Month Club! You can get 3 of their best-flavored pints 3 months a year delivered right to your door!

McConnell’s has been serving creative fun flavors to LA since 1949! To this day, it is still family-owned, as the third generation is still scooping divine ice cream. So many great options here: Chocolate Covered Strawberry, Double Peanut Butter Chip, Salted Caramel Chip, Sprinkle Cake, Sea Salt Cream and Cookies, and my absolute favorite: Whiskey Pralines and Cream!

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Supercool Creamery - Entertaining and delicious!

SUPERCOOL CREAMERY

• Location: 4469 Sunset Dr, Los Angeles, CA 90027 - CURRENTLY CLOSED!!!!!!!!

• Website: supercoolcreamery.com

• Dietary Restrictions: Dairy-free Options Available

• Take-out: Use a local delivery service or they deliver certain items nationwide!

With a name like SuperCool, I wasn’t sure what to expect! I was pleasantly surprised when we walked in and the ice cream artists were dressed like performers and put on quite a show! With the magic of liquid nitrogen, the cream I chose turned into ice cream. They have great flavor options such as Key lime with dark rum, Coconut Chocolate Chip, Coffee Toffee, and Berry Sorbet (dairy-free). I loved every moment of my visit here! They also cater events and spike their ice cream! Keep these cool scoops in mind for your next party!

See our full review here: SUPERCOOL CREAMERY REVIEW

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MANHATTAN BEACH CREAMERY

• Location: 1120 Manhattan Ave, Manhattan Beach, CA 90266

• Website: mbcreamery.com

• Pricing: Their Sundae has the best value!

• Dietary Restrictions: Gluten Free Options Available

• Take-out: Use a local delivery service or they deliver certain items nationwide!

Ice cream and ocean views? What could be better during summer in LA?! Check out why Manhattan Beach Creamery is one of the best places for ice cream in Los Angeles! Home of the artisan ice cream sandwich, the Cream'wich ice cream sandwich is a combination of artisan cookies from Katella Bakery, and their signature ice cream. Try the Super Sonic ice cream, a sweet cream taste, filled with lots of sprinkles!

See the full review here: Manhattan Beach Creamery

Manhattan Beach Creamery - Super Sonic Ice Cream

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Cookie Monster Ice Cream Sandwiches

THE BAKED BEAR

• Locations: Hermosa, Burbank, La Canada, USC

• Website: BakedBear.com

• Price and Value: Great price for 2 cookies and a LARGE scoop of ice cream!

• Take-out: Have your sweets delivered from a local delivery service, and make sure you get a dozen cookies!

Love cookies and ice cream? Get the best ice cream sandwiches at the Baked Bear, made fresh to your favorite combination! See my favorite concoction and where to pick up one of these bad boys!

Read the full review here: The Baked Bear

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MOTHERMOO CREAMERY

• Location: Sierra Madre - 17 Kersting Ct, Sierra Madre, CA 91024

• Website: mothermoo.com

• Value: Great value for a scoop!

• Dietary Restrictions: Dairy Free Ice Cream Options Available

• Take-out: Get pies, cookies, cakes, ice cream, and more, delivered to your door (through Postmates). Or you can do a contactless pickup in the alley behind them - it’s not as shady as it sounds!

MotherMoo’s ice cream is made in-store as small-batch, homemade ice cream using locally sourced ingredients, many grown within miles from the scoop shop. Favorite flavors include Salty Chocolate, Dutch Apple Pie Crumble, Pretzel and Caramel, Peppermint Stick, Fresh Coffee, House-made Peppermint Patty. Most interesting flavors: Roasted Fig Leaf, Organic Celery, Fresh Basil, Orange Peel & Szechuan Pepper. See all flavors here: Mothermoo Flavors

Not only do they have phenomenal ice cream, but they also have cookies, pies, and cakes!

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AFTERS ICE CREAM

• Locations: All over Southern California - find one near you!

• Website: aftersicecream.com

• Menu: Afters Flavors

• Value: Ice cream is priced a little higher than most shops (2 scoops for $6.50) however handcrafted ice cream usually is! They also have very pretty colored sprinkles! Worth every penny to me! 

• Take-out: Postmates delivers!

Afters is very trendy ice cream scoop shop with relatable quotes. Afters offers many unique flavors including Cookie Butter and Cookie Monster (it’s blue), also home of the Milky bun, which is a warm glazed bun (donut like) stuffed with ice cream! As they say, “Less talk, more ice cream!” My favorite location is the Venice creamery - ice cream on the beach, how cool is that?

Read the full review here: Afters Ice Cream

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Thanks Give Me a Cookie and Graham Central Station

HANDEL’S HOMEMADE ICE CREAM

• Locations: Northridge, Long Beach

• Website: handelsicecream.com

• Value: SO MANY SCOOPS IN ONE CONE!

• Take-out: Handel’s delivers ice cream anywhere (limited for now), but use Postmates for now!

Great options here - cones, pops, ice cream sandwiches, smoothies, and pints! They even have a Hurricane which is similar to a McFlurry, ice cream blended with mix-in candies!

Lots of fun flavors that differ from store to store and many seasonal options. Huge fan of their Graham Central Station and Thanksgiving flavors! Thanks Give Me a Cookie is basically ice cream with a ton of different kinds of cookies!

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Dark Chocolate and Cookies & Cream

SAFFRON AND ROSE

• Location: West LA - 1387 Westwood Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90024

• Website: saffronroseicecream.com

• Value: Great, a small comes with 2 scoops

• Dietary Restrictions: Vegan Ice Cream Options

• Take-out: Take out and contactless delivery available!

Saffron and Rose serve up Persian style ice cream in Westwood! It’s lower on my list because it has all of those weird flavors like lavender and rose... things that smell amazing but not fragrances I prefer in my ice cream. See all the florals, nutty, and chocolate flavors here: Saffron and Rose flavors

You get 2 scoops even for their smallest size, so I played it safe and went for the dark chocolate (that had brownie bites and walnuts in it) and cookies n cream! The guy at the register judged me for taking my picture and said “Nice picture” in a move out of the way tone. Judge away, I’m doing it for the gram, dude! Oh well, the ice cream was good, though!

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CREAMISTRY

• Locations: Downtown, Hollywood, Woodland Hills, Glendale

  There are many locations throughout California, Arizona, Louisiana, and Texas. Find one near you: Creamistry Locations

• Website/Menu: Creamistry Menu

• Price/Value: I thought it was a little pricy but you get a pretty good-sized serving!

• Dietary Restrictions: Non-dairy ice cream and Gluten-Free items

Creamistry ice cream makes you smarter! Well, you learn a little science lesson about liquid Nitrogen and how to make ice cream with it! Super creamy dense ice cream will fill you up and last a while! They have so many options, everyone will walk away happy!

See our full review here: Creamisty Ice Cream Review

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GO FORTH AND ENJOY NATIONAL ICE CREAM MONTH! TRY ALL THE ICE CREAMS!

Thanks for reading, please leave any thoughts in the comments section below!

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Need more ice cream?

Disneyland food you can't miss - where to find the best food and sweet treats!

See our top Disneyland dessert picks!

Gibson Girl Ice Cream Parlour

Two of my favorite things in the world make a perfect combo: Disneyland & ice cream!!! I am such a Disney nerd and have been to Disneyland (literally) hundreds of times since I was little. Josh and I have even ventured to Hong Kong Disneyland and Paris Disneyland. We still have Tokyo and Shanghai to visit!

We averaged going to Disneyland almost once a month for the past few years, checking out the treats the Food and Wine Festival offered in Spring, Summer specials, Halloweentime in the Fall, and Holiday specials during winter. I present to you my findings of delicious treats around the resort that you can find throughout the year and the seasonal specialties offered.

Note: Most seasonal treats come back each year, but not guaranteed.

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Mickey’s Cookies and Cream 90 Sprinkle Milkshake

Schmoozies!

Location: California Adventure - Hollywood Land

Let’s start with my favorite, the Mickey shakes at Schmoozies in California Adventure’s Hollywood Land are not only super cute to look at, but they taste DELICIOUS too! The shakes change with the seasons and are typically made cookies and cream style.

PRO-TIP: Order on the Disneyland mobile app. We’ve waited over 30 mins on a crowded day!

The Churro Shake (Brown Sugar-Cinnamon Ice Cream, Cinnamon Churro Cereal, Whipped Topping and Churro Toffee) can also be found here for you churro lovers!

If you don’t want a milkshake and want a more “healthy” option, there are also smoothies including our favorites Mango Madness and Strawberry Banana Sensation!

Minnie Witch Shake at Schmoozies Halloween

Sorcerer Mickey Shake at Schmoozies

Santa Mickey Shake at Christmas at Schmoozies

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Tropical Hideaway - Pineapple Raspberry Swirl

Tropical Hideaway

Location: Disneyland - Adventureland

Located directly behind the Tiki Room, the NEW Tropical Hideaway is open for ice cream business. Orange, Pineapple, or Raspberry are your options here.

Pro-tip: You can even add bacon bits as a topping, which is part of their Secret Menu!

You can even sit and watch the Jungle Cruisers come back from their journey.

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Dole Whip Soft Serve

Pineapple Dole Whip Soft Serve

Location: Adventureland Entrance - Disneyland Park

 So creamy and fruity, pineapple Dole Whip is the best soft serve around! Lines can be long for this sweet treat, but it is worth it. Makes me want to sing “in the tiki tiki tiki room…”

Pro-Tip: You can order via the Disneyland Mobile app! GENIUS!

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Funnel Cake Fries - Award Wieners

AWARD WIENERS

Location: California Adventure - Hollywood Land

Who doesn’t love a hot dog and fries? The key here is Funnel Cake Fries! From flavors like Apple Pie Fries (Coated with Cinnamon-Sugar, topped with Apple Pie Filling, Caramel Sauce, Whipped Cream, and Streusel) to standard funnel cake strips, the toppings are the game-changers.

Throughout the different seasons, toppings vary from Oogie Boogie themed with crushed Oreos and gummy worms at Halloween to cereal and condensed milk with whipped cream. No matter when you go, they’re always tasty!

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The CrazyShake

Location: Black Tap Craft Burgers and Beers Restaurant - Downtown Disney

Black Tap is known for their amazing hamburgers and their CrazyShake milkshakes! Dine in or hop in their shake window line to grab one to go!

I would enlist help taking these shakes down because yes, that is an ice cream sandwich hanging off the side of the shake in the picture (in case you were wondering)!

Pictured - The Cookie Shake: Vanilla cookie shake on steroids - vanilla frosted rim with cookie crumbles topped with a ‘cookiewich,’ crumbled cookies, chocolate chips, whipped cream & chocolate drizzle

Black Tap CrazyShake - The Cookie Shake Milkshake

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Blue Milk - Galaxy’s Edge

Blue Milk

Location: Galaxy’s Edge in Disneyland

Do you remember the scene from Star Wars Episode VIII: The Last Jedi when Luke squeezes gross milk from the udder of a female Thala-siren (basically an alien sea cow) and gulps it? Yeah, it was disgusting. Anyhoo, Galaxy’s Edge is now serving a Blue Milk and a Green Milk from a machine… not a creature.

Blue Milk: Plant-based Dairy blend of Coconut and Rice Milk with alluring fruity characteristics. 

Green Milk: Plant-based Dairy blend of Coconut and Rice Milk with zippy citrus and tropical characteristics.

The consistency is strange, it’s like a smoothie, or somewhere between a slushie and a milkshake! We preferred the Blue Milk, which had a sweet, dessert-like taste. The Green Milk tasted almost floral like as if it were lavender ice cream. These drinks are also one of the hottest commodities right now, so make sure you use the mobile order with the Disneyland app. It’s not worth waiting in line!

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Batuu-bon found in Galaxy’s Edge

Batuu-bon

Location: Docking Bay 7 Food and Cargo

If you’re traveling to a Galaxy Far Far Away… Batuu is the last stop before entering Wild Space. You must try the Batuu-bon, a decadent chocolate cake with white chocolate mousse and coffee custard. The green sponge-like cake tasted fruity and the coin was a piece of chocolate! You’ll need nourishment before your trip into space, light speed ahead!

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Ghiradelli - Lands End Salted Caramel Brownie Sundae with Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Ice Cream

Ghirardelli's Soda Fountain and Chocolate Shop

Location: California Adventure - Wharf

The Ghirardelli headquarters can be found in San Francisco, but I'm not opposed to having some chocolatey goodness in California Adventure. This scoop shop is next to cars land, just as you are entering the wharf (where the food court is).

Their menu will have you drooling. With 10+ sundaes to choose from and 10 of shakes or ice cream scoop combos, you can customize to your tastebuds content.

Our faves:

Lands End Salted Caramel Brownie Sundae - Vanilla Ice Cream, a full-size Ghirardelli® Chocolate Brownie, Caramel Sauce, Sea Salt and handmade Hot Fudge topped with Whipped Cream, Caramel Sauce, Ghirardelli® Chocolate Sauce and a Cherry

Nob Hill Chill - a sundae you can sip (vanilla ice cream, fudge and chocolate chips on top)! 

Clockwise from left: Cookie Bits Sundae, Nob Hill Chill, Ice cream cone

Ghirardelli Chocolate, Rocky Road and Cookie Dough cone

This rich, creamy ice cream his the spot! But make sure you eat it quickly! Don't let this happen to you!

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Huge Chocolate Chip Cookies

Location: Jack-Jack Cookie Num Nums on Pixar Pier at California Adventure

If you want a chocolate chip as big as your face, this is your place! Jack-Jack’s cookies are as super as he is! Choose from chocolate chip, shortbread and jam-filled, gluten-friendly cookies.

Pro-tip: Grab one of these to share with your friends and family while waiting for the Incredicoaster!

Jack-Jack and Edna on the Incredicoaster

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Pink Strawberry Ice cream!

Clarabelle's Ice Cream 

Location: Near Entrance of California Adventure

As you enter the park, Clarabelle's can be found at the end of the Buena Vista Street on your right (next to Starbucks). It isn't homemade but a nice selection of Dreyer's ice cream!

You can always get a chocolate-covered ice cream bar but at Christmastime, you can get a refreshing Peppermint Ice Cream Bar with your ice cream of choice!

Peppermint Ice Cream Bar from Clarabelle’s at Christmastime

At Halloweentime, they serve up a mean raspberry bat sundae, and by mean, I mean YUMMY! See more: Halloween Time at Disneyland

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Peppermint Soft Serve - Cozy Cone Motel

Cozy Cone Motel Ice Cream

Location: California Adventure - Cars Land

You can always get vanilla or chocolate soft serve at the Ice Cream Cozy Cone (HUGE PORTIONS) but at Christmas time, you can get also get the peppermint soft serve topped with holiday sprinkles and a star! It’s as pretty as a Christmas tree and VERY MINTY.

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Adorable Snowman Frosted Treats - Soft Serve

Location: California Adventure Boardwalk (Pixar Pier)

Formally known as the Paradise Pier Ice Cream stand, Pixar Pier took over and Abominable is serving up some sweet treats! Soft serve lemon flavored ice cream is the ticket here. You may have been warned not to eat yellow snow, but here, it’s perfectly acceptable. See the before and after:

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Señor Buzz Churros

Location: Pixar Pier and Carts

Buzz whips up some good churros over on Pixar Pier! Churros taste better while at the parks for whatever reason! Pick up some cinnamon sugary goodness with Buzz or any other cart in the parks.

Pro-Tip: Grab a churro while you wait in line for Midway Mania! It’s the BEST ride in the park!

Buzz’s Churros - Pixar Pier

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Cookies, Candies, and Sweet Confections

Locations: Candy Palace and Candy Kitchen on Main Street in Disneyland or Trolley Treats on Buena Vista Street in California Adventure

AP discounts offered

Fresh cookies and confections treats are made daily at the bakeries! Sink your teeth into a Cheshire Cat marshmallow tail or Mickey shaped candy apple. From cake pops to rice krispies, your sweet tooth will be more than satisfied.

If you go on the right day, maybe you’ll find a cookie that matches your manicure.

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Ice Cream Cones and Sundaes

Location: Gibson Girl Ice Cream Parlor on Main Street USA in Disneyland

AP discounts offered

Cones are made fresh daily and seasonal sprinkles along with select flavors of Dreyer's ice cream!

Our favorite is the Chocolate Chip Cookie Sundae with cookie dough ice cream! Comes in a Mickey shape, OF COURSE!

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Mickey Ice Cream Sandwiches

Location: Ice Cream Carts

Grab a Mickey-shaped ice cream sandwich to cool down at various ice cream carts and restaurants around the park.

A classic that I have loved since I was a kid! The ice cream sandwiches are so frozen at first, it is so hard to be patient to wait for it to soften! 

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Artisan Ice Cream

Location: Salt and Straw in Downtown Disney

I love Salt and Straw and I’m excited one has opened in Downtown Disney. Originally from Portland, Oregon, Salt and Straw has the best handmade ice cream made with local ingredients. Every month they feature a handful of unique original flavors.

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Experience World of Color from premium seats in Paradise Gardens Park!

After a day at the park, take a load off and enjoy some dessert with VIP waterfront views during World of Color! For $84 per guest (make sure you make reservations ahead of time - up to 60 days prior), make it a party and enjoy the following:

• A sweet and savory selection of desserts and appetizers

• Beverages

• Paradise Gardens Park reserved seating in the World of Color preferred viewing area.

Sounds like the perfect way to end your magical day doesn’t it?!

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I’m dying to get back to Disneyland now and craving sweets! Let me know if you get to try any of these!

Don’t forget these guys on your magical day:

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