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The Hawaiian Islands: Which One Is Right for Your Trip?
See which island suits your vacation by relaxation, crowds, outdoor activities, beaches, restaurants, and hotels! See our comparison post to help choose which island for your next Hawaiian beach vacation - Oahu, Maui, The Big Island, or Kauai?
Sheraton Kauai Resort
Which island should you choose to travel to for your Hawaiian beach vacation? Oahu, Maui, or Kauai?
Planning a trip to Hawaii but not sure which island to visit? You’re not alone — each Hawaiian island offers a completely different experience, from lively city life and historic landmarks to secluded beaches and dramatic natural landscapes.
Whether you’re planning a family vacation, honeymoon, babymoon, or first-time trip to Hawaii, this guide breaks down the major Hawaiian islands so you can confidently choose the one that fits your travel style best.
I’ve been asked this question a few times, “where to travel in Hawaii, which island is your favorite?” I might be biased because we’ve been to Maui so many times but it all comes down to how you like to travel and what experiences you’re looking for. I broke this list into categories so you can see for yourself what Island matches your style and pace!
RELATED POST: How much does it cost to go to Maui? - Itinerary, budget, and more!
🔎 Jump to Section
HAWAIIAN ISLANDS: Oahu vs Maui vs Kauai vs The Big Island - which island is best?
🌴 Overview of the Main Hawaiian Islands
While Hawaii is made up of eight major islands, four are most commonly visited by travelers:
Oahu – Best for first-timers, history, beaches, and nightlife
Maui - Best Overall Island for Families, Couples & Babymoons
Kauai – Best for nature lovers and laid-back escapes
Big Island – Best for volcanoes and unique landscapes
Below, we’ll dive into what makes each island special — and who it’s best for.
Still deciding? Maui is the best all-around Hawaiian island for most travelers, while Oahu is ideal for first-time visitors who want beaches, history, and nightlife.
Not sure which island fits your travel style?
👉 Take the Island Quiz
Oahu
Sunrise in Oahu
Why Visit Oahu?
World-famous Waikiki Beach
Pearl Harbor and historic landmarks
Great restaurants, shopping, and nightlife
Easy public transportation (no car required)
Best For:
✔ First-time Hawaii travelers
✔ City lovers who still want beaches
✔ History buffs
✔ Travelers without a rental car
Keep in mind: Oahu is busier and more fast-paced than other islands — perfect if you like energy, but not ideal if you’re craving solitude.
Maui
Maui - Sunrise at Haleakala
🌺 Maui: Best Overall Island (Families, Couples & Babymoons)
If you want the best mix of relaxation, adventure, and beautiful beaches, Maui consistently ranks as the top choice.
Why Visit Maui?
Incredible beaches like Wailea and Kaanapali
The iconic Road to Hana
Snorkeling, whale watching, and waterfalls
Luxury resorts and family-friendly hotels
Best For:
✔ Families with kids
✔ Couples & babymoons
✔ Travelers who want variety without island-hopping
Why Maui shines: It offers that classic “Hawaii vacation” feel without being overwhelming.
See our ULTIMATE Maui Travel Guide - Where to stay, what to do, and (most importantly) where to eat!
Kauai
Kauai - Waimea Canyon
🌿 Kauai: Best for Nature & Relaxation
Known as the Garden Isle, Kauai is lush, dramatic, and incredibly peaceful.
Why Visit Kauai?
The breathtaking Na Pali Coast
Stunning hikes and waterfalls
Fewer crowds and a slower pace
Minimal nightlife — maximum nature
Best For:
✔ Nature lovers
✔ Honeymooners
✔ Travelers seeking quiet and scenery
Good to know: Kauai is less developed — great for unplugging, but not ideal if you want shopping or nightlife.
See our full Kauai Guide - Where to Stay, Restaurant Recommendations, and things to do in Kauai
Big Island
Mauna Kea Volcano Eruption on the Big Island - you must see the lava glow at night
🌋 Big Island: Best for Adventure & Volcanoes
The Big Island of Hawaii offers the most diverse landscapes of any island — from black sand beaches to active volcanoes.
Why Visit the Big Island?
Hawaii Volcanoes National Park
Black, white, and green sand beaches
Stargazing on Mauna Kea
Less touristy feel
Best For:
✔ Adventurous travelers
✔ Repeat Hawaii visitors
✔ Those wanting something unique
Note: The island is large — driving distances are longer than on other islands.
Are you looking for a fast-paced or relaxing kinda trip?
More Relaxation - Kauai was like driving through a jungle most of the time! The island felt very spread out, and as it is the garden isle, it was so lush and green. We went in January which was very windy and wet, though I hear that’s often the weather pattern in Kauai. We stayed in Poipu and it wasn’t very crowded. No one felt like they were in a rush here, which was nice for a change.
A little of both - Maui is great so that you can get to remote areas like staying in Hana to unplug for a few days. Or, you can stay in Wailea or Kaanapali at a resort with ocean views and beach access (and spas!). You’ll still have shopping areas and more options to zip around the island.
Fast-Pace - Oahu is very city-like with lots of high-end retail stores, high-rise buildings, and traffic if you stay in Waikiki! If you’re looking for nightlife, this is your place! The North Shore is more laid back if you want to head up there to relax or catch a surf competition.
See our shopping list (with some great budget-friendly dresses and tons of Hawaiian outfit ideas) straight from Amazon: Hawaii Packing Essentials
Grand Wailea Resort
Outdoor Activities
Kauai - So many things to do outdoors!
Hiking is available on all three islands, though we did more hikes in Kauai than the other 2 combined! There are many levels of difficulty and well, mud. You can also casually tube down the mountains via water tunnels and canals in some spots!
Take a helicopter tour around Kauai. Ours was canceled 3 times due to weather so we were unable to go, but the pictures and sites we saw from the ground would have been even better from a birds-eye view.
Go on a snorkel tour and see the island from the outside looking in.
Maui - Lots of water activities!
Tour the Road to Hana for lava tubes, hiking, red and black sand beaches, waterfalls, and swimming! The gorgeous remote views will take your breath away!
Check out what’s under the sea. Lots of great snorkeling and scuba sites all over the west side of Maui. If you don’t want to get wet, check out the aquarium to see the beautiful Hawaiian reef behind glass. During the winter months (November-May), humpback whales migrate through the sheltered ʻAuʻau Channel between the islands of Maui county!
Oahu - So much to explore!
Visit Pearl Harbor! I was surprised by how much there was to see and do there, and most of it is free! There are ships, submarines, and planes you can walk on for an inexpensive price! Get there early before tickets sell out.
Hike up the inactive volcano, Diamond Head, and take in Waikiki views from above.
Surf gnarly waves! Some of the best waves in Hawaii can be found on Oahu beaches.
The Big Island - VOLCANO!
Mauna Kea often erupts and you can see it! Pro-tip: stay until it gets dark to see the lava glow in the crater!
Great coffee in Kona!
RELATED POST: Maui with Kids - Why Maui is perfect for families
Oahu - View of Waikiki Beach from Diamond Head
Are you a hotel resort or Airbnb type of person?
Kauai has smaller resorts compared to Maui and Oahu, but they also have some Airbnb type options as well.
Maui has bigger resorts and more Airbnb type options. Resort prices range from 3 stars to 5 stars along the sand beaches!
Oahu has lots of skyscraping hotels in Waikiki with lively nightlife! If you have your window open in your room, it almost sounds like New York city with honking and traffic.
The Big Island - Has great resorts if you’re a tourist. The Airbnb locations might not have as many walkable restaurant options.
No matter which island you choose, 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!
Sheraton Maui Deluxe Room Views
Beaches - Do you want to layout or participate in water activities?
Kauai - We stopped at a few beaches driving along the coast and most were completely empty! Great sand to layout on or take a long walk.
Maui - Lots of beaches to visit on the west side! If you drive further away from the resorts, you might have a beach to yourself! However, the resorts do have a lot of water activities available such as parasailing, jet ski, etc. If you’re into that!
Oahu - Head towards the North Shore for less crowded beaches, although the Waikiki waves were pretty fun! Lots of water activities available here too.
The Big Island - Has a few beaches perfect for kids with shallow entry and a reef barrier! You can also swim with Dolphins at the Hilton Waikoloa Village.
See our shopping list (with some great budget-friendly dresses and tons of Hawaiian outfit ideas) straight from Amazon: Hawaii Packing Essentials
Sheraton Kauai Resort
Restaurants - Do you prefer fine dining or more casual restaurants?
Kauai - Some fine dining, but more local casual spots. Folks like to turn in early here. We enjoyed Merriman’s which wasn’t too far from our hotel in Poipu.
Maui - It’s a bit of a mix and match of both fine dining near the bigger resorts as well as great local spots with loco moco! Our favorite restaurant is Monkeypod Kitchen and they have 2 locations (Wailea or Kaanapali)!
Oahu - More chain-like restaurants here, but definitely some great fine dining options. My favorite restaurant was the Top of Waikiki, a revolving restaurant with 365 views! Sounds like it is permanently closed due to the lack of tourism in 2020!
How do you budget travel to Hawaii and how do you island-hop?
GREAT question! If you’re traveling on a budget, I recommend using points and miles. Plan at least a year in advance if you need to save up! Alaska Airlines offers a great deal if you have their credit card - you can have a companion fly for a discounted price upon booking! Sometimes my flight as a companion is only $150 and free checked bags (1 per person)! Make sure you book well in advance to take advantage of this opportunity. Chase credit card points are also good as they have a 1:1 ratio for points and miles. The Marriott Bonvoy credit card offers a free night a year! I’m happy to give you free pointers if you contact me!
RELATED POST: How much does it cost to go to Maui?- Itinerary, budget, and more!
Don’t want to mess with credit cards? 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!
Most flights come into Honolulu (HNL) or Maui (OGG). From there you can travel to the other islands within an hour via plane.
No matter what, you’ll have a great time in Hawaii! Live aloha and relax! Feel free to contact us for a more in-depth conversation or leave a comment below. We’d be happy to help you plan your next trip!
✈️ Can You Visit More Than One Island?
Yes! Many travelers combine islands on longer trips.
Popular combos:
Oahu + Maui → City + relaxation
Maui + Kauai → Beaches + nature
✈️ Inter-island flights are short (30–45 minutes) and frequent.
Maui - Merriman’s Restaurant at Sunset
💸 Is Hawaii Expensive?
Hawaii can be pricey, but planning helps.
Average costs (per night):
Budget hotels: $200–$300
Mid-range resorts: $350–$500
Luxury resorts: $600+
Saving tips:
Book early
Travel shoulder season
Use grocery stores for breakfasts & snacks
📅 Best Time to Visit the Hawaiian Islands
Best weather: April–June & September–October
Whale season: December–April (best on Maui)
Peak crowds: Summer, holidays, spring break
Hawaii is beautiful year-round — choosing when to go often depends on crowd tolerance and budget.
Island Comparison
| Island | Best For | Vibe | Top Experiences | Ideal Trip Length | Crowds | Rental Car |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Oahu | First-time visitors, culture, nightlife | Lively, urban + beach | Waikiki Beach, Pearl Harbor, Diamond Head, North Shore | 5–7 days | High | Optional |
| Maui | Families, couples, babymoons | Relaxed, scenic, upscale | Road to Hana, whale watching, Wailea/Kaanapali beaches, snorkeling | 7–10 days | Medium | Recommended |
| Kauai | Nature lovers, honeymooners | Quiet, lush, laid-back | Na Pali Coast, Waimea Canyon, waterfalls, hiking | 5–7 days | Low–Medium | Required |
| Big Island | Adventure seekers, repeat visitors | Wild, diverse, spacious | Volcanoes National Park, black sand beaches, Mauna Kea stargazing | 7–10 days | Low | Required |
New Dolphin Show at the Hilton Waikoloa Village on The Big Island
QUIZ: Which Hawaiian Island Should You Visit?
If you’ve read this far and still can’t decide, this quick quiz will point you in the right direction.
🌴 Which Hawaiian Island Should You Visit?
Answer these quick questions to find your perfect island match.
1️⃣ Your ideal vacation day looks like:
2️⃣ Your travel style is:
3️⃣ Who are you traveling with?
4️⃣ What matters most to you?
Quick Guide & Planning tips:
🌆 First time? → Oahu (Where to stay, what to do)
🌺 Best all-around? → Maui (Start planning here)
🌿 Love nature & quiet? → Kauai (Everything you need to know)
🌋 Want adventure? → Big Island
Hawaiian Islands FAQ
Which Hawaiian island is best for first-time visitors?
Oahu is usually the best choice for first-time visitors thanks to iconic beaches like Waikiki, major attractions, historic sites such as Pearl Harbor, and the widest variety of restaurants and activities.
Which Hawaiian island is best all-around?
Maui is often considered the best all-around Hawaiian island because it offers a balance of beautiful beaches, resort areas, outdoor adventures, and easy day trips like the Road to Hana.
Which Hawaiian island is best for families?
Maui is very family-friendly with calm beaches, resorts with pools and kid amenities, and plenty of easy activities for all ages.
Which Hawaiian island is best for nature lovers?
Kauai is best for nature lovers who want lush scenery, waterfalls, hiking, and a slower, more peaceful pace.
Can you visit more than one Hawaiian island in one trip?
Yes. Many travelers visit multiple islands on longer trips, commonly pairing Oahu and Maui or Maui and Kauai using short inter-island flights.
🌈 Final Thoughts
No matter which Hawaiian island you choose, you’ll find unforgettable beaches, warm aloha spirit, and incredible scenery. The key is picking the island that matches how you want to travel, not just what looks best on Instagram.
👉 For detailed itineraries, family-friendly tips, and hotel recommendations, explore the rest of my Hawaii travel guides here on The Sweetest Escapes.
Please note this is not a sponsored post and based on my own personal experience, all thoughts are my own.
If you liked this post please share it on your favorite social media site using the Share button below because we’d love to get the word out! Feel free to pin this to your favorite Pinterest board:
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Road to Hana Best Stops (2026): Must-See Stops + Map & Honest Tips
Planning the Road to Hana? 🌴 This 2026 guide shares the best stops on the Road to Hana, a helpful map, how long the drive really takes, safety tips, what to avoid, and advice for visiting with kids. Perfect for first-time Maui visitors planning a stress-free day trip. Save this for your Hawaii trip planning!
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
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. 😉
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:
Coconut Glen's ice cream (15 mins)
Lava Tubes (30 mins)
Black Sand Beach (30-60 mins) - YOU MUST MAKE A RESERVATION
Red Sand Beach - Koki Beach (30 mins)
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!
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 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.
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.
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.
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!
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!
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.
#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!
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
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.
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!
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!
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
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!
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.
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.
Watch our video that has a collection of a few trips along the Road to Hana:
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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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:
Maui With Kids: The Ultimate Family Travel Guide 2026
Maui is one of the easiest and most rewarding Hawaiian islands to visit with kids. From calm, swimmable beaches and walkable resort areas to family-friendly hotels, restaurants, and activities, this guide shares everything you need to know to plan a smooth, memorable Maui vacation with toddlers and young kids—based on real family experience.
Kids love RUnning on Airplane beach in Maui and in and out of waves
Is Maui Worth It With Kids? A Real Family-Friendly Travel Guide
Yes — Maui is absolutely worth visiting with kids. From calm beaches and stroller-friendly resort areas to kid-loving restaurants and flexible activities, Maui is one of the easiest Hawaiian islands to enjoy as a family — even with toddlers.
Our kids don’t understand how lucky they are for the amount of times they have gone to Hawaii! Maui is our favorite destination for traveling as a family. There is so much to do and the island has so much to offer for everyone. We have made some sweet memories together from having an infant to toddler and kid years.
We have learned to have a successful trip you need the balance of snacks, naps, and fun! therefore, we have recommendations for accommodations, restaurants, and things to do to entertain (and hopefully tire out) your tot!
Related Post: Don’t miss our ULTIMATE MAUI GUIDE
Honokōwai Beach Park
Best Places to Stay in Maui for Families
After many hotel and condo stays around Maui, let’s break up the island to compare which areas are best for your family!
🏝️ Best Areas to Stay in Maui With Kids
| Area | Best For | Walkability | Beach Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kā‘anapali | First-timers, toddlers | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Sandy, swimmable |
| Wailea | Luxury, older kids | ⭐⭐ | Resort beaches |
| Napili / Kapalua | Quiet stays, babies | ⭐ | Calm coves |
These are the best areas to stay in Maui with kids based on walkability, beach conditions, and family-friendly amenities.
Kaanapali vs Wailea vs Kapalua with Kids
Kaanapali is much more kid friendly, as well as budget friendly, than Wailea. Both areas of the island have family friendly hotels but Kaanapali has a long stretch of them! There is a great beach and tons of hotels and shopping along Kaanapali with a long walk way to connect everything together.
Wailea has more high end hotels that are more geared towards adults, such as the Four Seasons or the Andaz. The Grand Wailea has an awesome pool with lots of water slides but you can also get similar pools in Kaanapali.
Napili and Kapalua are further North and rockier than the previous areas discussed. It’s not as walkable as the hotel resorts are more spread out, which makes it less crowded and quieter. Kapalua bay has a great beach that doesn’t have big waves but also has a coral reef that is great for snorkeling! The Kapalua coastal trail is great for strollers or walking with a carrier.
🏨 Condo Resorts vs Hotels
Depending on your length of stay, if it’s more than 5 days, you might be more comfortable trying a condo like Outrigger’s Honua Kai! You can pick your room layout (Studio, One Bedroom, Two Bedroom or Three Bedrooms) so that you have plenty of space especially when babies or toddlers are napping and you need another room to hang out in!
Condo Rental Wins:
Pools are like resort pools! Honua Kai has one of our favorite pools complete with water slides, splash pad, and kiddie pool! You can even get food and drink poolside service from Duke’s restaurant!
My favorite feature is having a full kitchen with the little ones so you can make pancakes or have fresh fruit and milk available in a full sized refrigerator as opposed to a mini fridge.
We book through Maui Resort Rentals and they have cribs/pack n plays so you don’t have to bring a bed!
Taking first steps on a Little Beach bridges in front of Honua Kai
Best resorts for families
Don’t get me wrong, the resort hotels are wonderful too! If you have kids that are 4+, traveling is a bit easier since you don’t have to bring diapers, strollers, pack n play, etc!
Kaanapali has a few great hotel resorts:
Westin Kā‘anapali Ocean Resort Villas
The Westin in Kaanapali has an amazing pool area with slides, fountains, and one especially parent-friendly feature: our 3-year-old could climb up to the slide on their own and land in a shallow pool (about 1.5 feet deep). This setup was a huge win for us—it gave our toddler independence while giving us a much-needed break from constant stair climbing.
The Westin also has great restaurants, a Starbucks, and an ARCADE!
Other activities include feeding the flamingos and birds in the morning. Ask the front desk about the times for daily feedings. We were even able to hold the birds too!
Hyatt Regency Maui Resort and Spa
The pool at the Hyatt Regency Maui is a kid’s tropical playground that feels more like a mini-waterpark than a hotel pool. Between the sandy lagoons, waterslides, swinging rope bridge, hidden grottos tucked behind rushing waterfalls, and the legendary Ululani’s Shave Ice located right on the pool deck, it provides enough adventure to keep children entertained from sunrise to sunset.
The Hyatt Regency Maui resort has a resident colony of African Black-Footed Penguins. Located right in the atrium lobby, these charismatic birds are a must-see, especially during the daily 9:30 AM feedings where children can watch them waddle, swim, and dive for their breakfast while learning about conservation from the wildlife team. It’s essentially a mini-zoo experience without leaving the hotel, featuring not just the penguins but also flamingos, swans, and talking parrots scattered throughout the lush grounds.
Has a game room/arcade area geared toward kids and teens.
African Black-Footed Penguins at the Hyatt Regency Maui
Wailea also has a family friendly hotel:
Grand Wailea
Though there isn’t an arcade, the Grand Wailea offers a kids club and teen lounge including video games and indoor activities— which is more structured and supervised than the Hyatt or Westin Arcades.
The Grand Wailea pool is widely considered the heavyweight champion for kids on Maui. The massive Wailea Canyon Activity Pool is a sprawling 25,700-square-foot playground that is actually nine individual pools connected by a network of lazy rivers and whitewater rapids.
Children can choose from five different waterslides, including the three-story Lava Tube for the brave and gentler interconnected slides for the younger ones. Between the Tarzan rope swing, the hidden caves behind waterfalls, and a dedicated Baby Beach with a sandy bottom and zero-entry slope, it essentially functions as a private, world-class waterpark that keeps kids engaged for days on end.
See our full review of The Grand Wailea.
Honokōwai Beach Park
🏝️ Best Beaches in Maui for Kids
The key to the best kid friendly beaches in Maui:
Calm water
Shallow entry
Easy parking
Nearby bathrooms
Here’s what we recommend:
Kaanapali Beach is great for kids who are strong swimmers or like to boogie board. There are a few free lots to park in but they fill up quickly. Otherwise it’s best to park at a resort or the Whalers Village Shopping parking lot. See more but
Airplane Beach just north of Kaanapali has a more shallow entry and calmer waves than Kaanapali. Our toddlers loved running up to the waves crashing on the shower then running from the water before it could catch them. Parking is harder to find or the free lot near the Sheraton is quite a distance and fills up quickly.
Kapalua Bay is also a great play for littles that want to play in the ocean that is more Shallow with softer waves. If you peak on the other side of the bay off the grassy knoll, you’ll find turtles sleeping. There’s a parking lot (fills up quick, get there early) with public bathrooms nearby too.
Honokōwai Beach Park has a playground AND a great beach that is protected by a rock reef so it’s more like a pool that even infants can sit and play in! There’s also a public bathroom and parking lot too!
Look Closely for the Sleeping Green Hawaiian Sea Turtles in Kapalua Bay
🌊 Things to Do in Maui With Kids
Easy hikes
Iao Valley is great to wander around and has different hiking levels for all ages. There’s also a stream to swim in.
Kapalua’s Coastal Trail is even stroller friendly with stunning beach views.
See our full breakdown in our Maui Hiking Trails Post!
Farm visits
Kula Ranch is a great place to visit especially in October! They have a full pumpkin patch as well as a few animals to look at and pet. Kula is above Wailea but you ave to drive around to get to it. Also, try the pumpkin bread sold in the little stand!
Road to Hana Stops
The Road to Hana is such a great way to see how gorgeous Maui is filled with waterfalls, beaches, banana bread stops and more! If you do go, it is an ALL day adventure, so plan and prepare ahead of time.
You must stop at the Black Sand Beach and try to get to Haleakala National Park for a hike through the Pipiwai Trail (Bamboo Forest). See our full list of Road to Hana Stops for more!
Professional Maui Family Photos
Maui provides the perfect background for any photo, so take your professional family portraits on the island! Think Christmas card photos - Male Kalikimaka! Our favorite local, Tracy Leboe at Baby Hawaii Photography, is super talented taking maternity photos but also captures gorgeous family moments! Book your session ahead of time.
Family Portraits taken by Baby Hawaii Photography
🍽️ Best Kid Friendly Restaurants in Maui
Monkeypod is a very toddler friendly restaurant with crayons and free butter noodles for kids 3 and under. It also has great happy hour and my favorite Mai Tai! There are two locations on Maui - Kaaanapali and Wailea!
Barefoot Bar is a fun restaurant where you can eat with your toes in the sand! It is part of Hula Grill but has a separate entrance on the South side of the restaurant. They also have crayons and some good kid food options. Our kid claimed, “it was the best restaurant ever!”
The Ritz’s Burger Shack is a toddler approved restaurant located outside with a big grassy area for kids to run around. It’s also parent approved if you want to hang out and have a boozy milkshake or just watch the waves crash on the shore for a few minutes!
🧃 Easy Snacks for Kids in Maui (That Don’t Melt)
When you’re exploring Maui with kids, having the right snacks on hand can make all the difference. Between beach days, car rides, and long sightseeing stops, you’ll want options that hold up in warm weather and are easy for kids to eat on the go.
These parent-approved snacks travel well around the island and won’t melt or turn messy in your bag:
Gummies
Gummies are lightweight, easy to portion, and a favorite with kids of all ages. They’re ideal for beach bags, stroller pockets, and plane rides since they don’t melt like chocolate snacks.Fruit Snacks
Fruit snacks are great for quick snack breaks while sightseeing or driving around the island. Look for resealable packaging so you can spread snacks out throughout the day without waste.Pouches
Fruit and veggie pouches are especially helpful in Maui’s heat. They’re refreshing, mess-free, and easy for kids to eat while walking or riding in the car. Many are shelf-stable, so refrigeration isn’t an issue until they’re opened.
Love this idea but don’t want to pack all of this? I don’t blame you! Good news is that you can get these as soon as you land at the Target or Costco by the Maui OGG Airport!
💡 Parent Tip: Pack snacks in a small insulated pouch or shaded backpack pocket to keep them out of direct sun, especially during beach days or long drives.
We bring our Wagon instea of a Stroller
Traveling to Maui With Toddlers
Nap-friendly days
With toddlers down to one nap, we would try and get out early, because they were up early anyway, and make it back before naptime or time it where we would be in the car so they could nap.
Stroller walks
There were a lot of stroller walks up and down Kaanapali beach when we had infants and toddlers! We would bring our beach wagon and put both toddlers in for a walk!
Pool days vs adventure days
We would typically alternate pool days and adventure days but most days involved a splash in the pool regardless.
We would even use a night swim as an incentive to eat their dinner.
What to skip with toddlers
The Road to Hana is great but is a longggg day for little ones. It’s essentially a 5 hour (or more) drive so you must plan accordingly to be on the road ALL day. You can break it up with stops but getting to the furthest point is a three hour drive straight there. Even the first stop from Kaanapali or Wailea is about a two hour drive. If you’re only in Maui for a few days this might be a good one to skip unless your kids are a bit older. If you’re pregnant and have nausea, don’t attempt it. I speak from experience.
Haleakala sunrises and sunsets are breathtaking, but don’t go with toddlers or younger.
Sunset cruises are fun but stressful with younger kids that like to run around.
Walking along the kid and stroller friendly Kapalua Coastal Walk in Maui
5-Day Maui Itinerary with Kids
Day 1 Arrival
12p Arrival into OGG, pick up rental car
1p stop at Target, Costco, then pick up Tin Roof
3p Check into Honua Kai Condo
4p 🛍️ Head to Whalers Village for shopping and dinner at Monkeypod (get extra food for fridge). Must order: Chicken Wings, Kalua Pork Pizza, Free Butter Noodles for kids, pie slices to go to eat in room after kids go to bed. Don’t forget to order the best Mai Tai on the island! All of this is on the Happy Hour menu!
6p Back to hotel for bedtime
Day 2 Pool-time and Burgers
5a Kids wake up, make pancakes (and coffee) in room
7a Adult Breakfast pickup (or dine in) at Duke’s
8a Pool opens!
11a Back to room for lunch
12p Naptime
2:30p Drive to Ritz in Kapalua and have Linner at Burger Shack (it’s a big meal to fill up on). Must order: burger and milkshake
4p Explore Ritz and Kapalua or go to DT Fleming beach
6p Back to Hotel for Bedtime
Pipiwai Trail With Baby in Carrier
Day 3 Road to Hana Adventure
5:30a Kids wake up - make more pancakes for everyone (and another pot of coffee)
6:30a Drive the Road to Hana
8a Stretch legs at Banana Bread Stop
9a Arrive at Kīpahulu Visitor Center which is part of Haleakala National Park where you can explore the Oheo Gulch Pools, Pipiwai Trail (Bamboo Forest), and Waimoku Falls
11a Eat a packed lunch or drive to the Food Trucks in Hana
1p Stop at Wainapanapa Beach (Black Sand Beach) - make a reservation ahead of time.
3p Drive back to hotel
5p Dinner at hotel or pick up something on the way back
6p Bedtime
Day 4 - Pool and Luau
6a Kids wake up
7a Breakfast at Slappy Cakes or The Gazebo
8a Kapalua Bay for beach time, maybe try the coastal walk
11a Back to room for lunch
12p Naptime
2:30p Quick Pool Play
7p Bedtime
Day 5 - Last Swim and Depart
6:30a Kids Wake Up
7:30a Breakfast at Duke’s
8:30a Take turns with your partner packing
10:30a Drive to Airport (and cry the whole way)
Sticker Tape Road and Travel Magnatiles keep them entertained in the hotel room
What to Pack for Maui With Kids
I think giving a list of what not to pack is a shorter list because we bring almost everything! One thing I will advise is there is a Costco and a Target by the airport so make your Target order for pickup before your flight takes off so it’s ready for you when you land. You can always Instacart Costco or just head in for free snacks.
Here is a copy paste of what I packed for my 2 and 4-year-old on our last trip.
Shop our Toddler Packing Amazon list.
Carry-on Plane
Personal Carry-on:
Toys & some books
iPad
Headphones 🎧
Waterbottles
Wagon - We bring a wagon instead of a stroller these days now that the kids are older. Though we loved our travel stroller for when we had babies!
Snack Bag - Dedicated light weight backpack that folds up into a pouch
Pouches
That’s it bars
Pirate booty
Cereal Bars from Trader Joes
Bear Fruit Snacks
Gummies
Teddy Grahams
Here is the full list of everything else that scatters into multiple bags:
Sleep
Inflatable bed x 2
Sheets x 2
Blanket x 2
Small Toddler pillows x 2
PJs
White noise / Hatch
Food Things
Food bag
Bowls 🥣
Baby Spoons 🥄
Bibs
Water cup/bottle
Milk cup
Sippy cup
Safe dish soap 🧼
Sandwich bags
Snack bowl
Travel and Misc
Car seat x 2
Car seat bags x 2
Swaddle
Clothes pins
Outlet covers
Beach bag
Beach blanket mat
Toiletries for Kids
Baby shampoo
Baby body wash
Soft Wash Cloths
Nail clippers
Brush
Kids Tylenol
Kids Sunscreen
Diaper rash cream
Baby Aquaphor/neosporin
Ear drops
Clothes and diapers
Sweatshirt for plane & Mainland airport travel
Socks
Shorts
Shirts
Swimwear
Swim diapers
Size 4 diapers
Pull ups
Overnight Diapers
Wipes
Hat
Multipurpose Sanitation wipes in ziplock bag
Toys and Entertainment - Shop our Toddler Packing Amazon list
Bath Toys - Cars 🚗
Books 📚
Sand toys 🏖️
Football 🏈
Frisbee
Trucks 🛻
Cars 🚙
Sticker Road
Plane toys - coloring book, sticker book
Cards 🃏
Travel Magnatiles
Is Maui Worth It With Kids?
Yes—Maui is absolutely worth it with kids, especially for families traveling with toddlers and young children. The island offers calm, swimmable beaches, family-friendly resorts, walkable areas like Kā‘anapali, and activities that don’t require long drives or packed schedules. With the right balance of pool days, beach time, and nap-friendly outings, Maui is one of the easiest Hawaii islands to enjoy as a family. If you plan intentionally—choosing the right area to stay and skipping overly long excursions—Maui can be both relaxing and unforgettable with kids.
More Maui Posts:
10 Must-Have Road Trip Essentials for Happy Toddlers
Navigating the open road with a toddler can feel less like a scenic drive and more like a high-stakes, full-contact sport. Forget the tranquil hum of the engine; you're more likely to be serenaded by a chorus of "Are we there yet?" and the frantic search for a rest stop with a decent playground. But fear not, brave navigators! I've spent countless miles perfecting the art of the toddler-friendly road trip, and I'm here to share my quirky, tried-and-true survival guide.
My secret weapon? A pre-packed arsenal of sanity-saving essentials that never leave my car. First up, snacks, glorious snacks! This one's a no-brainer, but when you're hurtling down the highway, these morsels become more crucial than your GPS. My go-tos include That’s It bars, a brilliant way to sneak in some fruit; Go Go Squeeze Pouches for mess-free slurping joy; and, of course, the ever-reliable Goldfish crackers, which have the magical ability to avert a meltdown in seconds. To slow down the snack-gobbling process, I always pack snack pack containers—they're a sneaky way to work on those fine motor skills while keeping the crumb-pocalypse at bay.
But what about when the snacks run out? That's when I deploy my next secret weapon: reusable sticker books. I swear these are enchanted. I've found that each one buys me at least 15 minutes of blissful quiet—that's enough time to listen to an entire song without interruption! And for the inevitable screen time, a headrest-mounted iPad holder is a game-changer. It means less neck craning for your tiny passengers and more hands-free time for you to, you know, eat your own snacks in peace.
Toddler Road Trip Hacks: Keep Your Little Ones Happy on the Go
Traveling is an adventure, but hitting the open road with a toddler (or two!) can feel like a full-contact sport. Forget serene scenery – think snack negotiations, endless choruses of "Are we there yet?", and the frantic search for a rest stop. But fear not, brave navigators! I've mastered the art of the toddler-friendly road trip, and I'm sharing my top 10 quirky must-haves that never leave my car.
Shop our sanity-saving list on Amazon: https://amzn.to/446NDIp
1. Snacks, Glorious Snacks (The Fuel of Tiny Conquerors)
This one's a no-brainer, but when you're hurtling down the highway, snacks become more crucial than your GPS. Seriously.
Here are my favorite non-refrigerated, meltdown-averting morsels:
That’s It bars: Fruit in disguise! OUR FAVORITE!
Bear Fruit Snacks: Because bears are cute, and so are happy toddlers.
Go Go Squeeze Pouches: Less mess, more slurping joy.
Crackers: Teething crackers (for gnawing on), Ritz or Wheat Thins (for sophisticated crunching), Goldfish (for the inevitable "one more, please!").
Dried Fruit: Nature's candy, minus the sticky fingers (mostly).
Teddy Grahams: Tiny bears, big smiles.
2. No Spill Snack Pack Containers (The Anti-Hoarding Device)
These little wonders are game-changers. They slow down the snack-gobbling process, preventing your little ones from stuffing their faces like they haven't eaten in a week. Plus, it's a sneaky way to work on those fine motor skills. Score!
3. Reusable Sticker Books (The Quiet Time Whisperers)
I swear these sticker books are enchanted. I snagged a six-pack, and each one bought me at least 15 minutes of blissful quiet. That's like, an entire podcast episode, people!
We also have this cute Bluey Set.
4. iPad Holder (Your Personal Entertainment Concierge)
Because sometimes, a screen is your best friend. An iPad holder that attaches to the headrest means less neck craning for your tiny passengers and more hands-free time for you (to, you know, eat your own snacks).
5. Flash Cards (The Interactive Distraction)
Forget just looking at pictures! These flashcards are your secret weapon for impromptu car games. Think "I Spy" with animals, "20 Questions" about colors, or a scavenger hunt for letters. If they get it right, a Teddy Graham or Goldfish awaits! It's educational bribery at its finest.
6. Books (The Timeless Tranquilizers)
Even in the age of screens, a good old-fashioned book is a lifesaver.
I pack touch-and-feel books for my younger adventurer (who mostly just touches every page anyway).
For my older tot, it's all about Spidey books, the Little Blue Truck, or anything Disney - the look and find series is great because there is a small story and a where’s Waldo type game to it!
See more book ideas HERE
7. Inflatable Race Car Bed or Slumberpod (Your Mobile Sleep Sanctuary)
Okay, so this isn't for the car ride itself, but for your destination! If your crib-dweller can sleep in a pack-n-play, the Slumberpod is your new best friend. It’s a blackout tent that cocoons the pack-n-play, letting your littles sleep longer and allowing you to move around the room without becoming a giant, interesting distraction.
I borrowed an inflatable Race Car bed from my sister and have now used it more than she has, taking it all over the place. I thought my littles were going to pop it, but it’s surprisingly durable. It's compact and easy to inflate/deflate – a true throwback to my '90s blow-up furniture days! It even comes with a pump and plug for the wall or cigarette lighter!
Don't forget, you’ll also need:
Toddler Bed Fitted Sheet (bring two just in case, toddlers are messy!)
8. Magnetic Tile Travel Set (The Genius Builder)
I’ve yet to meet a toddler who isn't mesmerized by Magnatiles. I found a travel-friendly version from Picasso Tiles on sale, which only comes out for vacations. And for when they inevitably get bored, I introduce the little magnetic cars for a quick switch-up.
Good news is, they also work with most magnet tiles so you can slip extras in there or you can use the minis when not on vacation.
9. Cars and Road Tape (The Portable Highway)
This Road Tape is like painter's tape with a highway printed on it! It was perfect for rolling their smaller cars up and down.
We love the V-Tech Go Go Smart Wheels cars which are also great in the car because they light up, play short songs, and make noise (in a good way, not an annoying way… usually).
10. White Noise and Nightlight (The Dream Weavers)
Yes, our Hatch (our white noise machine/nightlight) isn't exactly "portable" in the traditional sense, but it’s a non-negotiable for our toddlers' sleep routine. I just swaddle it in clothes like a precious cargo to keep it safe. White noise is a lifesaver for drowning out new hotel sounds and creating a familiar sleep environment.
Some extras goodies that we pack for EVERY trip:
For a family of 4 (including 2 toddlers at almost 2 and 3.5 years old), we packed:
3 duffles- we love the Eddie Bauer duffle that compacts into a small bag when you’re not using them
Duffle #1 - toddlers’ clothes, diapers, shoes, toys, etc.
Duffle #2 - My clothes and hub’s clothes
Duffle #3 - toddler bumper for bed, you can use pillows but we had free bags we could check. Sometimes we bring the race car blow-up bed
2 personal bags (however, mine was toy overflow) - Picasso Magnet Mini tile travel set, Go Dog Go board book, trucks, Pixar Cars bath toys, Reusable Sticker books, and Crayola Mess Free Coloring books.
Insulated Snack bag - filled with PB&J sandwiches, That’s It Bars, Bear Fruit Rolls
Wagon - We use a wagon instead of our stroller, since both tots are getting older, but we do LOVE this travel stroller
Don’t forget to grab a Crossword Puzzle for nap time! This is our FAVORITE puzzle! Travel terms and countries! https://amzn.to/4lVixuR It keeps my mind working and gives me a list of places to add to our bucket list!
See our full list on Amazon.com!
So there you have it, fellow parents! With this arsenal of quirky essentials, you're not just driving; you're conquering the open road, one happy toddler moment at a time. What are your go-to road trip hacks for little ones?
Please note this is not a sponsored post and based on my own personal experience, all thoughts are my own.
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Here are a few more toddler travel tips:
Hotel Review: InterContinental the Clement Monterey by IHG
Ready for a hotel stay that's equal parts grown-up zen and toddler-approved fun? We're spilling all the tea (and Nespresso!) on the InterContinental the Clement Monterey. From surprisingly spacious rooms with secret zen gardens to a jellyfish-inspired lobby staircase and a prime location next to the Monterey Bay Aquarium, find out why this hotel is a family favorite for all the quirky, comfy reasons. Get ready for gourmet breakfasts, gigantic bathrooms, and just enough space to stash your emergency juice boxes!
InterContinental the Clement Monterey by IHG Entrance and Valet
InterContinental Clement Monterey: Where Grown-Up Zen Meets Toddler-Friendly Fun!
Address: 750 Cannery Row, Monterey, CA 93940
Remember those glorious, kid-free days when you'd waltz into a swanky hotel, sip fancy cocktails, and just exist? Yeah, neither do I. But fear not, fellow parent warriors! We recently revisited the InterContinental the Clement Monterey by IHG – first as carefree adults, and then as a tag-team duo with two energetic toddlers in tow. And guess what? Both experiences were pure magic! (Well, as magical as it gets when you're traveling with tiny humans.)
The Clement Monterey Bridge over cannery row
Location, Location, Location: Where Everything's Practically at Your Fingertips!
If you're all about convenience (and who isn't when wrangling little ones?), the Clement Monterey's location is practically a superhero! Nestled right on the breathtaking Monterey Bay, this elegant hotel is literally a two-minute stroll from the bustling charm of Cannery Row, where you can find everything from quirky shops to delicious eateries. Feeling a bit more adventurous? Fisherman's Wharf, with its clam chowder delights and barking sea lions, is just a mile away.And for those who dream of pristine greens and ocean views, the iconic Pebble Beach Golf Links is a mere six miles down the road. But the real cherry on top for families? You're literally steps away from the magnificent Monterey Bay Aquarium! Prepare for your tiny marine biologists to lose their minds (in the best possible way, of course).
Fireplace and orchids in Lobby at the Clement Monterey
The Lobby: Where Grandeur Meets Giggle-Inducing Details
First impressions? The lobby at the Clement Monterey is a whole vibe. The check-in desk is conveniently tucked away with the elevators just across the hall (super handy for the hotel hosts, but also for you when your toddlers are doing their "let's push all the buttons" routine). But the real magic happens just around the corner.
There's this absolutely gorgeous area with a cozy fireplace and comfy couches. It's the perfect spot to sip your Nespresso (from your room, naturally) and watch the water, patiently wait for your significant other to finally emerge from the bathroom, or even, as we discovered, have an impromptu pizza party with your tiny humans!
Off the lobby was a patio with tables and chairs, some even had firepits, AND best of all…CORNHOLE! It was entertainment for at least 20 minutes and a place for the kiddos to run around. We even saw whales in the distance and otters below the deck.
Outdoor patio Monterey Bay view
But my absolute favorite part of the entire hotel? The staircase just off the back of the lobby. It's a total showstopper! Inspired by the nearby aquarium, there's this incredible fixture that looks like a giant jellyfish gracefully changing colors. And with the shimmering lights, you genuinely feel like you're underwater. It's quirky, it's mesmerizing, and it's definitely worth a photo op (or three!).
Undersea scape Light art staircase at the InterContinental Clement MONTerey Bay
Your Room: Where Spaciousness Meets Serenity (Seriously!)
Spacious Gust Rooms at the Intercontinental Monterey Bay
Prepare to have your mind (and your claustrophobia) blown! The guest rooms here are so ridiculously spacious, you could probably host a small-scale toddler dance party without anyone tripping over furniture. Those high ceilings and massive windows aren't just for show; they let in all the good vibes and keep those "walls closing in" feelings at bay. Some rooms even have fireplaces!
And then there's the zen corner. No, really. They've got a tiny bonsai tree and a little Zen sand garden to help you achieve peak relaxation. Because after a day of chasing toddlers, who doesn't need a moment of inner peace? Plus, the fridge/mini-bar is just big enough to stash a few emergency juice boxes or that leftover gourmet burrito you snuck from breakfast. Priorities, right?
Nespresso Machine in Monterey Bay IHG Hotel Room!
But my absolute favorite touch? The Nespresso machine! Look, I love my Keurig, but a Nespresso in a hotel room? That's next-level adulting. Say goodbye to sad, watery hotel coffee and hello to liquid gold that'll help you conquer another day of toddler adventures.
Ginormous Bathroom at the Clement Monterey Bay
Shower in Monterey Bay Intercontinental
Oh, and the bathroom? It's ginormous! We're talking separate shower and a tub big enough to actually soak in (if your kids ever let you). And the towels were large bath sheets and felt like brand-new, fluffy, warm hugs after a long day. Most hotel towels are stiff and small. The body products smell delightful without making you feel like you just bathed in a perfume factory.
Mini Bar and Fridge
Mini Bar & Fridge: A Treasure Chest (Mostly) for Your Tiny Treasures
Alright, let's talk mini bar. In a world full of sad, empty hotel fridges, the Clement Monterey decided to be different. They actually had snacks and drinks! (Gasp!) Now, don't get me wrong, it's not a full-blown grocery store, but there was enough wiggle room to stash a few of your own emergency juice boxes or, you know, that leftover gourmet burrito from breakfast. Because priorities.
The Outdoor Pool at the Monterey Bay InterContinental
Pool & Fitness: More Like a (Very Pretty) Pond and a Spa for Grown-Ups!
Okay, let's be honest, the "pool" is more like a charming, oversized fountain that could comfortably fit about four adults (or, let's be real, two adults and a handful of splashy toddlers). But hey, it's pretty AND WARM! It's located on the second floor, right across from the fitness center, which means you can pretend you're going to work out, then sneak over to the pool for a quick dip instead. The spa, however, is a different story – it's big enough for six adults to soak their worries away. Just imagine!
The Spa at the InterContinental Monterey Bay
The C Restaurant Dining Room
The C Restaurant + Bar: Where Tiny Hands Meet Gourmet Delights
This place is seriously cute and upscale, with stunning views overlooking the bay. We hit them up for both breakfast and dinner, and let me tell you, everything was delicious! Beyond the typical breakfast fare, they've got some intriguing seafood breakfast options and a gourmet breakfast burrito that'll make your taste buds sing.
And for the little ones? They have a kids' menu! My tiny food critics devoured their pancakes – four fluffy, palm-sized pancakes each. Because apparently, little hands need big pancake portions.
Now, for the main event: dessert. Because, of course, we had dessert. We indulged in the Milk & Honey Toast ($18), which was basically buttery brioche, dreamy milk ice cream, crunchy honeycomb candy, and a dollop of strawberry guava jam. And then there was The Chocolate Bar ($18), a decadent symphony of chocolate ganache, peanut butter crunch, salted caramel, sesame brittle, and a sprinkle of Maldon Salt. Did I take pictures of them in the bathroom because the tots were finally sleeping? You bet your sweet tooth I did!
The Chocolate Bar ($18), a decadent symphony of chocolate ganache, peanut butter crunch, salted caramel, sesame brittle, and a sprinkle of Maldon Salt
Milk & Honey Toast ($18), buttery brioche, dreamy milk ice cream, crunchy honeycomb candy, and a dollop of strawberry guava jam
There is also a full spa if you want to get your massage on. Mama didn’t have time this trip, but next time will be a different story. Hubs can play Pebble Beach as long as Mom gets a spa day!
So, whether you're looking for a peaceful escape or a fun-filled family adventure, the InterContinental the Clement Monterey manages to pull off both with quirky charm and undeniable comfort. Ready to book your next Bay Area escape?
We ALWAYS find THE BEST rates through Booking.com. See deals of up to 50% off! You can save a bunch of money if you book a bundle flight+room+rental car! They even have apartments, lodges, and houses you can rent, just like AirBnB or VRBO! By booking through this link, I receive a commission at no additional cost to you! PLEASE support our blog and bookmark this link!
The back of the hotel
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Packing Checklist and Must Haves for Traveling with a Baby 2025
Traveling with a baby? What should I pack? What do I need? Here’s everything you need when traveling with a baby from strollers that fit in an overheard compartment to the best travel bed to get babies to sleep in hotel rooms!
Baby Travel Essentials
Make Traveling with a Baby Easier in 2025
Babies are so small yet need so many things! Traveling isn’t as easy as just packing a small bag for the weekend when bringing a little one. Whether you’re flying or driving, here are some handy tips and a packing list for what to pack and travel hacks for infants 6 months+!
Don’t forget to grab a Crossword Puzzle for nap time! This is our FAVORITE puzzle! Travel terms and countries! https://amzn.to/4lVixuR It keeps my mind working and gives me a list of places to add to our bucket list!
Shop our Amazon list for all things listed below!
Related post: See all things need for baby from birth to 12 months in this Baby Must Haves List
Ergobaby Metro+ Stroller - best travel stroller
Car Seats and Strollers
If you are driving, you’ll already have your car seat (we love our Graco 4Ever DLX car seat).
If you’re flying I recommend a much lighter car seat like the Graco SnugRide 35 Lite LX Infant Car Seat that doesn’t need a base and can still be strapped in by the seat belt. It only weighs about 7 pounds and helps protect rear-facing infants 4-35 lb and up to 32". You might not need the car seat on the plane which you can gate check it, but you may need a car seat once you land to get to your hotel or Grandma’s house. If you are gate checking, just make sure to grab a tag from the gate host before you board and I recommend this Gorilla Grip car seat gate check cover for it that can also be worn as a backpack! It also packs into a small handy pouch!
We absolutely love our Uppababy Vista stroller but it is a monster to travel with! We bought the Ergobaby Metro+ stroller which compacts nicely into the overhead compartment of an airplane or the trunk of a car. The stroller weigh 16.9 pounds, holding up to 50 pounds or 50” (ages 0-4 typically) in the seat and up to 20 pounds in the carriage below. We also hang the diaper bag on the handles and if it’s not too heavy, the stroller won’t tip over. The wheel suspension is great and work well on a variety of surfaces, pretty impressive for being so lightweight.
We liked the Ergobaby stroller compared to the Baby jogger.
Food and Breastfeeding
Baby’s first flight was when he was 8 months old, so he was starting to eat solids but more solely relying on breast milk than food. We packed a thermal lunch box that had reusable ice packs and packed extra ziplock bags to get ice at a restaurant or on the plane when the packs melted.
When going through TSA, tell them you have breast milk and they may have you put in a separate bin along with baby wipes, so have that ready. In Syracuse, they scanned the milk and opened the bottles and didn’t properly secure one so it slowly leaked everywhere. 😩 Always triple check the bottles and flip them upside down to make sure they aren’t leaking.
During take-off and landing, it’s recommended to feed the baby a bottle or breastfeed. The sucking helps with the pressure in altitude change. I sat in the window seat so there was a little more privacy.
We also packed teething crackers which was entertainment for 20 mins and a snack. Also, your water cup could be the best new toy your baby has ever played with. 😂
If baby is 9 months or over one year old, you’ll want to pack either baby food that doesn’t have to be refrigerated or a thermal lunchbox full of food (and maybe even a sandwich for Mom and Dad). Don’t forget to pack a bib, spoon, bowls, or plates!
We are into baby led weaning and so when baby was 10 months old, I packed a steak knife, spoon, foldable measuring cup, paper towels, small trash bags, baby safe soap, and small cutting board. The steak knife would need to be checked and I would prep as much food as possible so you can check all of these items. I put Mrs Meyers soap in a travel bottle to wash breast pump parts and baby food containers.
If you’re driving, same situation as above, only we packed a small cooler.
Shop our Amazon list for all these things in one place!
SlumberPod is a must have for traveling with a baby!
Sleeping and Travel Crib
Most hotels will have a pack n play but it’s not always guaranteed, so make sure you call ahead. We typically bring ours as it’s the best travel crib if we’re driving and must bring the SlumberPod!
The SlumberPod is a blackout tent that goes over the pack-n-play to help keep the light out and allows you to sneak around the hotel room without baby seeing you. We always bring the Hatch too for white noise but you can always use an iPhone or iPad for that.
Related post: See all things need for baby from birth to 12 months in this Baby Must Haves List
Deuter Baby Carrier for hikes
Best Baby Carrier
We have several baby carriers that all have their own purposes. However, we have 2 specifically for travel:
For hikes and outdoorsy events, we like the Deuter Kid Comfort Active carrier. It weighs just over 5 pounds by itself and is perfect for carrying around your precious cargo. Baby’s first trip was when he was 9 months old and about 20 pounds and it holds up to 35 pounds which is the size of a 4 year old. Its an odd size so it’s a little harder to pack than our other carriers. The benefit is that it has pockets and space for your stuff, so you can carry other things in the carrier such as water bottles or snacks!
If you’re looking for something smaller and compact, we also have the Infantino Flip Advanced 4-in-1 Carrier which is convertible where you can have baby face-in and face-out or wear front and back for newborns and older babies 8-32 lbs. It’s super lightweight and very breathable.
Infantino Baby Carrier
Baby Toiletries and Amenities
I pack the following in a toiletry bag:
Baby shampoo and soap
Tylenol + syringe
Baby Comb
Vitamin D
Saline spray
Baby lotion
Baby Sunscreen
Some I have in travel size, others I fill a 3 oz travel bottle. Hotels might have a baby proofing amenity on request, but if you have a crawler or walker, I recommend bringing a handful of outlet covers.
Also, request a fridge ahead of time or when checking-in to your hotel.
In my diaper bag, I always have multipurpose wipes in a Ziploc bag, good to wipe down plane seat areas, table or high chairs at restaurant, toys, etc. I pack an extra baggie of them on trips.
Shop our Amazon list for all these things in one place!
Beach and Pool Travel Gear
If you’re heading to a beach destination, I recommend a few things:
Shade tent - having fun in the sun is great but shade is even better! We liked the COMMOUDS Large Pop Up Beach Tent with UPF 50+ beach sun shade including a carry bag! It’s lightweight is great for 3 people with some room for baby to run around. It is a pop up tent with screen windows (that can also close up) which compacts into a small bag weighing only 2 pounds. There are stakes and bags for sand bags to anchor the tent.
Beach blanket - this is great to have just in general. We like the HIHOHO Beach Blanket Sandproof, Lager 82" X79" and use it at the park or any lawn, really. It has pockets in the corner to fill with sand or rocks or even heavier toys and stakes to anchor. It’s machine washable too!
Related post: See all things need for baby from birth to 12 months in this Baby Must Haves List
Please note this is not a sponsored post and based on my own personal experience, all thoughts are my own.
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Baby Must Haves for Small Spaces and Travel in 2026
I made this list as I needed all the help I could get when preparing for baby. At first, we were living in a one bedroom apartment so I wanted only the essentials as we didn’t have much room to spare. My list below outlines my must haves and what was nice to have or not necessary! See our TRAVELING WITH BABY TIPS!
Last updated: January 2026 — tested and loved by real parents
Baby Must Haves 2026: What’s Worth Buying vs Skipping
If you’re reading this, congratulations! Building a baby registry or preparing for a newborn is extremely OVERWHELMING! There are so many options and lots of research to do for everything! This list covers the baby must haves you’ll actually use — not the trendy stuff that collects dust.
I made a similar post in 2022, but now that I’m 2 kids deep, I feel like I have more to share! For my friends expecting, I can’t wait for you to enter parenthood! It’s a journey but I wouldn’t trade it for the world.
I didn’t completely know what to expect and what I’d actually use or need. I made this list as I needed all the help I could get when preparing for baby in a small space. At first, we were living in a one bedroom apartment so I wanted only the essentials as we didn’t have much room to spare. My list below outlines my must haves and what was nice to have or what you can skip purchasing!
Scroll down to the bottom for TRAVELING WITH A BABY TIPS!
Shop the list below on AMAZON
Let’s Stroll! Stroller and Car Seat Essentials
Must Haves:
Stroller – Worth investing in a good stroller. You’ll have it for a while and quality is important.
UPPAbaby Vista - has rumble seat (infant/toddler) and bassinet attachment (newborn/infant)
Pro tip: get it on sale at Nordstrom sale in July! If you’re having 2 kids, this stroller is amazing!
Add ons: I recommend the snack trays, but not necessary until baby is 8-9 months. We also have the piggy back that is like a kick board which is fun at first, but not really worth it.
Backup Options:
Graco Ready2Grow LX 2.0 Double Stroller (around $270) – it’s VERY similar to the UPPAbaby and half the price.
The Doona Infant Car seat $550 is great too but pretty much only good for a year. The convenience of being a car seat and having wheels is pretty great, especially for traveling.
Stroller Organizer and Cup Holder – I use this to hold my phone, keys and water bottle when I go for walks around the neighborhood. This is a must have for me!
Ergobaby Metro+ Travel Stroller - We LOVE our UppaBaby, but it’s not the best for traveling with. The Ergobaby Metro+ stroller is lightweight, compact and fits in the overhead bin on a plane. You can open it with one hand, which helped tremendously when I was holding the baby and trying to open the stroller. Perfect for newborns to toddler with the adjustable seat and holds up to 50 pounds.
Car seat - We were only going to get the Graco car seat but ended up borrowing and were handed down the Nuna.
UPPAbaby Mesa V2 – I borrowed this infant car seat from my sister for a couple of months, only fits newborns or infants. It’s nice if they fall asleep in the car then you can bring them in without disturbing baby but they tend to wake up anyway. Also, easy to carry them around to places like doctor appointments. This one worked with our stroller, but we never actually used it that way, Josh just carried him in the car seat everywhere.
GRACO 4Ever DLX SnugLock 4 in 1 Car Seat Infant to Toddler Car Seat – We got this one since it is a 10 year convertible car seat, works from newborn to 10 years old! It’s already budget friendly and the color I liked was on sale for under $200. 4 years later - still a solid purchase!
Nuna Rava Car Seat - 10 position headrest with Ride rear-facing from 5–50 lbs. Ride forward-facing at least 2 years old or 25–65 lbs. We were given this as a hand me down. Buy new for $499
Cosco Car Seats - No, not COSTCO! We have 2 of these Cosco Car seat for travel and they are the set I have in my car now that the little one is out of the infant car seat. Easy to install and the car seat itself is lightweight weighing in around 10lbs. Cosco Finale Dx 2-in-1 is great for kids 30-100lbs (about a 2 year old) and the Cosco Scenera is great for infant to 40lbs. They don’t have bells and whistles but machine washable seats and did well on the safety tests.
See all items on our AMAZON list
Nice to Have:
Car seat protector in car seat – they pee, spit-up, etc. Easier to wash this!
Car seat mat – Protects your car seats
Car mirror – to see what baby is doing while driving
Baby Carrier – I have 3 different ones that we used for the 4 months:
Infantino Flip Advanced 4-in-1 Carrier – light weight and comfortable! Josh and I both use this one. Josh likes it best because of the airflow and light weight. For around $20, it’s perfect! I would wear this in the house and make dinner while baby slept in it.
Sleepy Wrap Carrier – I don’t use this one as often but good for around the house, especially when he’s sleeping in the first few months.
Lillebaby Carrier – This was a hand me down from a friend and I love that it has a pocket and you are able to have baby face you or face out once they have more head control.
Babyletto Hudson Crib and Baby Einstein Activity mat
Sleepy Time
Must haves for Baby Bedtime:
Pack n Play – I’ve mentioned it a few times, it’s perfect to use as a crib at first if you don’t have space or want to move it around. We used the bassinet in the bedroom and the Pack n Play in the living room before baby had his own room.
Graco Pack n Play – we have this one
Mattress – we have the Hiccapop Dual Sided for Infants and Toddlers
Sheets – tons of pack n play fitted sheet options on Amazon
Crib – We didn’t buy the crib until our first born was about 3 months because we were giving up the bassinet for my sister to use. You could totally use a pack n play too, which was our plan until we moved into the 2 bedroom and had more space. Our second born was supposed to inherit the crib but we moved and by the time we did, he figured out how to climb out of it around 1.5 years old. We then opted for Montessori beds that are pretty much on the ground.
Babyletto Hudson Crib – love the look of this crib and it was fairly easy for Josh to put together. I bought on sale on Black Friday and used the completion discount (as well as gift cards from friends)!
Sealy baby flex cool 2stage airy dual firm mattress – good mattress for crib, also bought on sale on Black Friday.
Sheets – have 2 or 3 fitted sheets that fit your mattress, nothing else should go in the crib until baby is one.
Waterproof Mattress pad – make sure it fits your mattress, this one is standard size so it should fit! You’ll definitely need it!
Sound Machine – we use the Hatch for EVERY nap and every night’s sleep! It plays white noise and has a light. There’s an app and a variety of options of noise and colors for the light. We made it part of our sleep routine and I think it helps him fall asleep as well as drown out noise.
Nice to have:
Bassinet – Baby slept in the bassinet in our room for the first 3 months. We borrowed a friend’s bassinet, but the Pack and Play also works if you’re minimizing your space. When we were in the one bedroom apt, we would move the bassinet into the living room during the day and the bedroom at night. In the 2-bedroom we had the Pack n Play in the living room and bassinet in the bedroom.
This Graco one is like my Pack n Play but has a bassinet and changing station! Being able to see the baby through the net while sleeping is really helpful.
Halo Bassinest – newer version of the one I borrowed.
Sheets – have 2 or 3 at least
Baby Monitor – we got security type cameras that you can see on your iPhone, iPad, or even Apple TV! We figure we can use them after we don’t need them as baby monitors. Didn’t start using until 3 months when noise would wake baby up and we put him to nap in his own room.
Eufy Security Camera – we have one in his room and one in the living room
Vtech Audio Monitor – we use this and look on our phone when we hear him
My sister has the Vava 720P (thermometer, 2 way talk, night vision)
Get if and when needed:
Sleep swaddler/Sleepsuit – Neither one of my babies liked to be swaddled tightly so we wrapped them from the chest down in Muslin blanket swaddles like these. We have about 6 or 7 of them and swaddled him for about 4 months until the day we found him sucking on it after a nap.
Zip up swaddles – My sister used Love to dream. If you live someplace cold, you might want these as an extra layer. We have the heater run if it gets to cold so his long sleeved footed onesies did the trick!
Velcro swaddles – My sister also loves the SwaddleMe
Magic Merlin Sleep Suit – my friend swore by this and got us one! It’s to help their startle reflexes to sleep longer.
Feed ME!
Must haves:
Bottles – we’ve been using the Avent bottles since day one (and to this day). Just make sure whatever brand you choose that their bottles work with your breast pump. Between the Avent Starter set and 2 bottles that came with my pump, that’s all we really need. Everything else goes in a Kiinde bag and is stored in the freezer.
Avent Bottle Starter Set – Love this set and it comes with a brush. It has three 4 oz bottles (which can be 6 oz if you fill to the top) and two 8 oz bottles.
Nipples – Make sure you follow the nipple size as baby grows. The kit comes with different sizes but you may need to buy more eventually. I bought size 4 for the Avent bottles for baby and started using them at 4 months.
Nuliee Breastmilk Storage bags - Best value, BPA free and some have a temperature sensor so you know when the milk is ready!
Drying rack – Munchkin Fold Rack – there’s one with just the rack or one with brushes if you don’t get the brush in the Avent kit. We use this daily and it folds for easy storage!
Burp cloths and bib- Aden and anais - multipurpose!! You can use as a burp cloth for the first 6 months then as a bib 6 months+. You can get any kind of burp cloths really. We have 7 or 8 and keep one out in each room, to easily grab when there’s a mess!
Don’t need right away:
Booster seat - Bumbo 3 in 1 – My sister has one and loves it. We got one and ended up wanting a highchair instead once we had more room. Won’t need this until 6 months.
High Chair - We got the Graco 6 in 1 Convertible High Chair which was highly rated on all lists for 2022 High Chairs. It’s easy to clean and grows with the baby into a toddle booster seat! Best bang for your buck!
Sippy cups
Munchkin Trainer Cup - use at 6 months transitioning from baby bottles to sip cups.
Munchkin Straw Cups - use around 9 months after they have mastered the trainer cup.
Fresh food feed – Everyone recommended the to me! You put fruit in the mesh and they suck on it - great to introduce food and helps with teething! Baby loves sucking on watermelon with this! Didn’t really use until 7 months.
Bibs
For the first few months, we used bibs when we fed him bottles as milk leaks out of his mouth. We have some of these Carter Bibs and ones that look like bandanas.
At 6 months, when we started solids, and you have to get the PandaEar Silicone bibs to catch food and easily wash after eating.
Food storage containers - don’t need until 7+ months
Munchkin Love-a-bowls 10 piece set - comes with 4 bowls with lids and 2 spoons! They go in the microwave and dishwasher too! I use these all the time for oatmeal, fruit, etc.
Babie B Suction Cups - Baby likes to try and pull the bowl, creating spillage! With these bowls, the suction keeps the bowl in place!
Baby Nutribullet – Great food storage system, but I honestly just used my food processor or Ninja blender. And I made both boys most of their purees. There are even all-in-one appliances that steam, cook, and puree like Grownsy!
Utensils – We started our first foods with Olababy utensils as they are soft, flexible, and make it easy to get in jars or use like a spatula in any bowl. Needed at 6 months.
Plates - we have suction plates with lids so you can prep ahead of time of save for later!
Pottery Barn Kids - Wingback Manual Swivel Glider Recliner
Nursing and Boobies
Breastfeeding Must haves:
Breast feeding pillow - my breast friend - I have used daily for every breast feed since day 1!
Breast pump - You should get a free pump through your insurance. I got the Spectra 9 Plus pump because it is portable and small. I was worried at first that it wasn’t strong enough but after my milk came in between 6-8 weeks, I’m really glad I got this one. It comes with 2 bottles but also works with the kiinde bags and Avent bottles. Order this at 32 weeks pregnant to make the most out of the warranty!
Breast pads - change at least once a day or if they are soaked. I like Baby Bliss because it came with a bag to store them and a bag to wash them! I’m a bra Size C and got the large size.
Nipple cream - Earth mama organic nipple butter - I used it after every feed the first few months or my nipples would crack and hurt! Now I use it every once and a while.
Nursing bras - Amazon Hofish - I have 6 bras - leaks, spit up are bound to happen. I started to wear them around 32 weeks, because they come with extenders and were so much more comfortable. Also, here is away to adjust your bra so you can pump hands free - this will come in handy! https://youtu.be/spPwcPeQQ5I
Nice to Have:
Rocking Chair - I didn’t think I needed this, but I use it EVERY SINGLE DAY! I wanted one that swiveled and reclined, because the nights that baby wouldn’t fall asleep, I needed a place to rock the baby and then recline to sleep. We splurge on the Wingback Manual & Power Swivel Glider Recliner from Pottery Barn Kids, but it was worth every penny. I got the manual recline to the powered recline wouldn’t wake a sleeping baby.
Bottle Warmer - would be nice to have but we just put hot water in a big cup and stick the bottle in it for about 5 mins, saves money and room.
Sterilizer - same as above, nice to have but you can just boil all bottles for 5 mins. We throw ours in the dishwasher too.
Milk catcher - Haakaa - I used in the beginning or if my boobs feel really full and are leaking. You can also use as a hand pump like when you forget your pump at work!
Nursing cover - use when company is over or in a public place. Baby didn’t like the cover after he was about 2 months 😔 You can also use swaddles or large flowy tops to cover!
Nursing tops - not needed and ugly 😂 I just have comfy flowy tops!
Diaper Dirty Work
Diaper Must haves:
Diapers – We’ve used Pampers Pure, Honest, HelloBello, and Huggies. How many diapers will you need? Great question! Sizes depend on weight, so we went through 50 NB (newborn) diapers a week the first 3-4 weeks, then he went up to a size 1 for a month with an average of 45 diapers a week. He went to size 2 at 2 months with an average of 40 diapers per week and then size 3 at about 3.5 months with an average of 35-40 diapers per week. I track his diapers in the app Baby+ because it is SO easy to forget when you last changed a diaper when you do it 8 times a day every day! At 9 months, he’s still in size 3.
Skip Hop Changing Pad – I like the plastic changing table as it is easy to clean up messes (which happen a lot). We took off the mobile part because it got in the way. My sister has this one - Keekaroo – same thing just more expensive.
Baby Wipes - Honest water wipes – We went through a pack per week at first. Now it’s almost 2 weeks. I didn’t like the HelloBello wipes as they were thin and smelled funny.
Diaper Rash cream – Honest - use anytime you see redness down there.
Diaper bag – we got a Eddie Bauer backpack that has lots of pockets and either one of us can carry. It also has straps to hang on the stroller and has a thermal pocket for milk!
Nice to have:
Diaper Genie - we didn’t have a diaper genie for the first weeks and threw diapers in our kitchen trash can that has a top. Now we have the changing station in the bathroom and a friend was getting rid of her genie so we took it. It’s handy to have right next to the changing table. I didn’t understand how the bags worked at first but it’s actually genius how it works: https://youtu.be/OJCHr-oe8H0 For refills, we’ve been buying the Amazon brand and they work just fine. The bag is thinner and the only time you can smell the dirty diapers is when you open it to throw something in. My sister has a Ubbi diaper pail which is nice as well and metal to mask the smell.
Diaper genie bags – we’ve been using the amazon brand and they’re fine.
Diaper caddy – I have this basket right next to the changing table to hold diaper rash cream, diapers, wipes, and lotions.
Splashy Bath Time
Baby Bath Must Haves:
Towels - Hooded towels are the best. There are tons to choose from, we have 2.
Wash cloths - soft terry cloth 6-8. I use 1-2 at bath time, and sometimes used 3 when sponge bathing at first.
Baby Shampoo/Soap – I use Mustela products, my boss highly recommended and gifted them to me. Mustela has a cradle cap shampoo that helps! My sister uses Cerave baby.
Brush – love this Frida baby brush and so does baby!
Frida Baby Basics - Includes NoseFrida, NailFrida, Windi, DermaFrida + Silicone Carry Case
Bath thermometer - I liked the rubber duck one and baby does too!
Nice to have:
Spout cover – Skip Hop – to protect them from hitting their head on it.
Bath kneeler - cushy and saves my knees, so glad I have one.
Baby Bathtub
Frida Bathtub - this is similar to the one I borrowed from my sister. I like this one because it has the insert to hold the baby. Bathing a newborn/infant is hard, they are fragile and slippery when wet. You really need 2 people to bathe the baby if you don’t have an insert.
Relaxing Baby – Inflatable bathtub - we got this after we had to return my sister’s tub when baby was 3 months. It’s slanted, so they can lean on it and it is much easier to use once baby can hold his head up! At about 3 months, I threw toys in there for baby to play with.
More Room for Activities
Must haves:
Baby lounger - Baby Bjorn or Baby Support Pillow which is great for putting baby in it while on the couch or the bed. We’ve used it daily since day one! There are tons of options on Amazon! Still using at 9 months, we just have to keep a close eye on him as he can roll out of it now.
Blankets - we do tummy time on a blanket on the bed. We started doing it when he was about 3 weeks but the doctor might say you can try it sooner. At about 3 months we got a nice play mat for the living room or we use the activity mat on the carpet. We also use the blanket in the stroller. We have 3 blankets and use them constantly.
Need but not right away:
MamaRoo or Ingenuity Swing – The MamaRoo is a splurge and was gifted to us, but baby can sit in it anywhere from 20-60 mins! The swing is good too, but he doesn’t like it as much. It’s a good place to put them in while you quickly go to the bathroom or put in the kitchen while you cook. We first used the swing when he was 1 month. Always keep an eye on them and buckle baby in!
Activity Mat – Baby LOVES his Baby Einstein Activity mat and will entertain him for a while. Started using at 3 months.
Baby Play Mat – we got a Baby Care play mat for the living room on our hardwood floors at 3 months. After tons of research, it was the best for quality and safety. We also got a play yard for it after he was really rolling around and almost crawling at 6.5 months.
Teether - 3-pack target has all stages Nuby don’t need until 5 months. Baby loved these, we stored them in the fridge so he liked the cold on his gums.
Pacifier – got some from the hospital and in the Avent bottle kit. Baby decided he didn’t like the pacifier after 1 month but at 3 months he liked to play with the ones with animals attached.
Dress Me Up
Baby wore newborn size for the first month, then size 0-3 from 1-3.5 months. At 8 months baby can still fit in some 3-6 months, but generally in 6+ months. Like women’s clothing, baby clothes run smaller or larger depending on the brand.
Onsies – have 8-10 on hand at least - pee, blowouts and spit up happen!
PJs – zip up are best, especially the double zipper for changing diapers! Lots of options out there. Again, have 8-10 depending on how often you want to do laundry. Baby went through 3 in one night, but for the most part you’ll only need 1 a night. I’d say once every 2 weeks we’d have an accident.
Socks – I have a 10 pack and its plenty.
Hats – I have 3 or 4, we use them on walks.
Hangers – Amazon brand (doesn’t fit newborn or some 0-3), I fold a lot of baby’s clothes but the bulkier ones, I hang.
Sleep swaddler/Sleepsuit - zip up swaddles; Love to dream; velcro ones (see more in the Sleepy time section)
Mama Style
Things you’ll need for the hospital and after birth:
Clothes - flowy and comfy
Pads/diapers - give you some at hospital. I wore pads for at least a month after birth. I did heavy the first 2 weeks, then a lighter flow after. You might want panty liners until your pelvic floor is strong again.
Ice packs – I didn’t like the cold down there but did use them on my boobs when my nipples were sore from breastfeeding
Witch-hazel pads – get from hospital
Squirt bottle - get a peri bottle from hospital
Stool softener – buy ahead to have when you get home from the hospital. I took daily for about 3 weeks.
Granny panties - hospital will give you some
Light weight robe – the hospital gowns are backless so it was nice to have a robe when walking around, especially when we weren’t planning on him going to the NICU and we went over there every 3 hours.
Massager – Best $6 you’ll ever spend
Hygiene and Organization
Thermometer - digital quick reading, we only used less than a handful of times in the first 9 months.
Bulb syringes – Catches boogers and blows small hair out of eyes – got one from the hospital
Dish Soap - we use Mrs. Meyers or there is Babyganics. The pediatrician said Mrs. Meyers is fine.
Make sure all bottles and pacifiers are sterilized in sterilizer or boiling water for 5-10 mins.
Wash everything – We used Tide at first and we were gifted babyganics detergent. My sister’s baby had a strong reaction to detergent, breaking out in a rash so they needed to use an unscented baby detergent. I usually wash baby’s clothes separately and do a light and dark load if they are first wash especially. After they’ve been washed a few times, the colors don’t really bleed when you wash on cold and delicate settings, so I just do one load with everything. Make sure you zip up any zippers and unfold the mits on the footed onsies as lint gets trapped in there sometimes.
Babyganics Toy and Highchair cleaner – use this to clean all toys, highchair, and the changing table.
Little Remedies Kit – Gifted from a friend and our Pediatrician recommended. We use the gas drops all the time and the Saline spray really came in handy. The Gripe water is good for hiccups.
Travel
We didn’t really travel until after baby was 6 months, but here are some helpful tips (see our Amazon travel list too):
Crib/Pack n Play - If you’re staying in a hotel, most will have a pack n play, just request ahead of time.
Slumberpod - This blackout tent fits over the pack n play and blocks out all light so baby can sleep! Great for naps and sleep, also gives you the freedom to walk around the hotel room. It worked SO well! It folds up in a fairly small pouch to making it easy to travel with.
Hatch or HomePod Mini - to play white noise while baby is sleeping to drown out hotel noises and so you can walk around the hotel room. We also brought the baby audio monitors so we could sit and talk on the patio, while baby sleeps inside. Book a hotel with a patio/balcony so you have somewhere to go!
Ergobaby Metro+ Travel Stroller - We LOVE our UppaBaby, but it’s not the best for traveling with. The Ergobaby Metro+ stroller is perf lightweight, compact and fits in the overhead bin on a plane. You can open it with one hand, which helped tremendously when I was holding the baby and trying to open the stroller. Perfect for newborns to toddler with the adjustable seat and holds up to 50 pounds.
Car seat - Cosco Car Seats - No, not COSTCO! We have 2 of these for travel and they are the set I have in my car now that the little one is out of the infant car seat. Easy to install and around 10lbs in weight. Cosco Finale Dx 2-in-1 is great for kids 30-100lbs (about a 2 year old) and the Cosco Scenera is great for infant to 40lbs. They don’t have bells and whistles but machine washable seats and did well on the safety tests. I got the Gorilla Grip cover for it when checking the seat at the gate. The cover folds up into a small pouch, which is really convenient!
See our full list: Packing Checklist and Must Haves for Traveling with a Baby
Baby Packing Checklists
To Pack for Hospital
For Mom
Flip flops and socks (not to wear together)
Nightdress or flowy sweats and t-shirt
Nursing bra (pack 2)
Breast pads (pack 3-4 sets)
Nipple cream
Robe
Comfy clothes
Going home outfit
Toiletries - your shampoo, body wash, etc.
Brush
Make-up - eye liner
Phone/Apple watch/tablet charger
Snacks
Water bottle (reusable)
Breast feeding pillow
Bed Pillows (use pillowcases other than white so the hospital doesn’t think its theirs if they make up your room)
Massager
Cord Blood kit
For Dad
iPad (charger too)
Change of clothes
Toiletries
Snacks
AirPods
Ear plugs and sleep mask
Vaccination card
For Baby
Going home outfit
Blanket
Car seat
Empty duffle bag
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I really need all of these baby items?
No. You can start with fewer items and add as you go. This list focuses on baby must haves that were used regularly and helped simplify daily life, especially in small spaces or when getting out of the house.
What baby gear is best for small spaces?
The best baby gear for small spaces is compact, foldable, or multi-use. Items that store easily, replace bulkier alternatives, and work both at home and on the go tend to get the most consistent use.
Which baby items do parents use the most?
Parents tend to use items that make everyday routines easier, like a dependable stroller, an organized diaper bag, and simple feeding and sleep essentials. Gear that requires extra setup or storage is often used less.
Are these baby must haves good for travel?
Yes. These baby must haves were chosen with portability in mind, making them easy to use at home, in the car, or while traveling. Lightweight, compact items are especially helpful during the newborn stage.
What baby items are often unnecessary?
Baby items that take up a lot of space or serve only one purpose are often unnecessary. Many parents find that practical, versatile gear gets far more use than trendy or oversized baby products. Anything that says “2 in 1” can be beneficial!
Is this baby must haves list still relevant after 2025?
Yes. While the URL includes 2025, this list is updated regularly to reflect baby products that continue to be useful and practical beyond trends, making it relevant for new parents year-round.
Is this list helpful for first-time parents?
Yes. This list is especially helpful for first-time parents who want to avoid overbuying and focus on baby essentials that are actually used during the newborn and early baby stages.
Hard fast truths:
What baby items do you actually need?
If your baby is coming tomorrow and you need just the essentials: Car seat, stroller, bottles, clothes, pack n play, diapers, wipes
What baby products are a waste of money?
These baby products were a waste of money for us: Wipe warmer, Snoo, expensive baby swings, expensive diapers
How many baby clothes do you really need?
I would have a weeks worth of baby clothes handy at all times. Our record was 3 outfit changes within an hour!
Are expensive baby items worth it?
Expensive baby items that you will use for a long time like car seats and strollers are absolutely worth 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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A curated collage of Hawaii outfit ideas featuring summer dresses, neutral sandals, and travel-friendly accessories suitable for island days and evenings.
Packing Essentials for Maui or any Island in Hawaii, Plus a Pretty Printable Packing Checklist - 2026 Update
Update: January 9, 2026
We’ve gone to Hawaii so many times I’ve become an expert on packing! We’ve been to almost all of the islands and they are relatively the same when packing. If I don’t have my list, I will forget things, so I always keep it handy since we venture to Hawaii at least once a year!
Related Post: How to Spend 4 Days in Maui - Complete Itinerary
Maui Sunrise looking over Lanai
Download our Hawaii Packing Essentials Checklist
Since I love to organize things, I sorted my list by category so it is foolproof not to leave something behind. Granted Hawaii does have shops and anything can be bought there, but I’d rather save my money to come back!
Great Budget-friendly finds on Amazon for Hawaii Packing!
Want a FREE downloadable pretty Hawaii travel packing essentials printable checklist with everything in this post? Click here: Packing Essentials for Hawaii
See our shopping list (with some great budget-friendly dresses and tons of Hawaiian outfit ideas) straight from Amazon: Hawaii Packing Essentials
RELATED POST: How much does it cost to go to Maui in 2026? - Itinerary, budget, and more!
Here we go…
My favorite Hawaii Outfit - dress with pockets!
CLOTHING FOR HAWAII AND HAWAII OUTFIT IDEAS - What to Pack for Hawaii Vacation
Dresses - Short and Maxi (Hawaiian themed is always fun). I usually wear dresses for dinner and wandering around. See more Hawaii Outfit ideas here
Light Sweater - for cooler nights
Workout Clothes - Hikes, Road to Hana, Runs on the beach, Zip-lining, golfing, etc.
Sneakers - great to have if you’re walking around or going on adventures - I LOVE Asics Gel Venture shoes! The gel is so squishy and comfortable. Must HAVE!
Plane Outfit - I love a good oversized top and leggings since it is usually a long-haul
Basics - Socks, Underwear, Bras, Sports Bras, PAJAMAS!
Small Purse - to hold an ID, Credit card, cash, phone, lipstick, gum and maybe a car key
Accessories/Jewelry - Earrings, Necklace, Bracelet, Watch
Looking for a complete Maui resource? Our Ultimate Travel Guide for Maui 2026 brings together hotels, activities, food, and travel tips in one place.
Hawaii outfit ideas with comfortable, breathable clothing and simple accessories designed for warm weather travel.
BEACH ITEMS FOR HAWAII - Hawaii Packing List for 5 Days
Flip-flops - I love Havianas! They are the only flip flop brand I’ve bought for 15 years.
Sandals - To wear to restaurants and shopping, unless you want to wear your flip flops
Swimsuit - I bring a couple so one is always dry
Swimsuit Cover Up - Great to wear around the resort or to get a drink at the pool bar! Hat - Sun hat and baseball hat for hikes/outdoor activities
Sunglasses - Sojo Sunglasses on Amazon are budget-friendly, great quality, and trendy!
Towel - or use the resort towels
Beach or tote bag - to throw towels, sunscreen, magazine, clothes, etc.
Water Bottle - Stay hydrated! Collapsable bottles are great!
Snacks - We like to have granola bars, gummi bears, and M&M’s on hand for the plane or for the room
Crossword Puzzle - This is our FAVORITE puzzle! Travel terms and countries! https://amzn.to/4lVixuR
Want a FREE printable/downloadable list with everything in this post? Click here: Packing Essentials for Hawaii or see our list of things to buy straight from Amazon: Hawaii Packing Essentials
Swimsuit coverup and hat perfect for Hawaii Travel
TOILETRIES FOR HAWAII
Reefsafe Sunblock - Save the reef! Buy reef safe! I noticed the Sheraton Maui had dispensers around the resort - check with your hotel ahead of time or bring your own!
Aloe Vera - I don’t know about you, but I always miss a spot.
Basics - Shampoo, Conditioner, Shower Gel (if you prefer your own, most hotels have these)
Deodorant
First Aid - I pack a few bandaids, Neosporin, aspirin… just in case!
Manicure Set - Manicure scissors (small TSA friendly ones), Nail clipper, tweezers, small nail file
Makeup! - I forgot my makeup bag once. It wasn’t pretty.
Hairbrush and Comb
Hairspray/Gel
Hair ties and Bobby pins - don’t forget, it gets windy on the beach!
Curling Iron or Flat Iron - Beachy waves are cool too!
Feminine Products
Maui Hawaii Beach
ELECTRONICS FOR HAWAII
GoPro - Get those adventure shots while swimming, snorkeling, zip-lining, surfing, waterfall hiking, or parasailing
Camera - We love our DSLR for a higher quality shot
iPad - load it up with shows and movies for the plane before you go and refresh the apps the day before you leave Hawaii as some downloads won’t work after 24 hours.
Mobile Phone - I mean I can’t go 10 minutes without mine. I also bring an old iPhone in a waterproof case for snorkeling and swimming!
Headphones/Airpods - don’t forget the little jack for Apple devices if you don’t use bluetooth
External battery - keep your electronics charged! We like the Mophie brand with built-in cables so you aren’t searching for them.
Cables - don’t forget your charging cables for your phone, headphones, tablet, watch…
See more plane tips here: Flying in 2019: Tips and Trick for the Airport and Airplane
Dive the Cathedral
Snorkel with Turtles
SCUBA DIVERS OR SNORKELERS PACKING LIST
We bring our own fins and masks so we can not only scuba dive but also snorkel whenever! Pro tip - buy a set and carry them on in a mesh bag!
Masks - I’ve tried so many masks and the Cressi Pano 3 is my personal favorite. At a budget-friendly price, it has one big window, fits well, and does not leak!
Fins
Baby Shampoo - use as defogging for the mask!
Rash Guards! Great for protecting your skin in the water! We forgot ours one year, so we bought new ones at our favorite store in Hawaii, Honolua Surf Shop
Dive Book and PADI/Dive Certification - for divers
Diver Essentials - Dive Watch, BCD, Wetsuit, etc. We usually make sure the dive shop has the basic package.
Scuba Mesh Bag to carry all of the above! We carry this mesh bag on the plane with our gear.
Want a FREE printable/downloadable list with everything in this post? Click here: Packing Essentials for Hawaii
CARRY-ON LUGGAGE RECOMMENDATION
Would you believe me if I said I fit everything on my list for a 4-5 day trip in a carry-on and personal bag? We have the best carry-on that is spacious and seriously compacts all of our clothes - Travel Pro. Most pilots and plane attendants carry this Travel Pro model as well. Although I love the ease of steering my suitcase with 4 wheels, having 2 wheels you get an extra couple of inches!
What NOT to Pack for Hawaii
Skip these items to pack lighter and enjoy Hawaii’s relaxed island lifestyle:
Heavy jackets or bulky layers – Hawaii is warm year-round; a light sweater is enough for evenings. ONLY pack these if you are going to a higher elevation early in the morning or late at night.
High heels or dressy shoes – Most places are casual; sandals and sneakers are best.
Too many outfits – You’ll live in swimsuits, shorts, and casual dresses.
Full-size toiletries – Easily available at Target, Walmart, and local stores.
Non-reef-safe sunscreen – Hawaii restricts certain chemicals to protect coral reefs.
Expensive jewelry – Swimming and beach days increase the risk of loss.
Hair styling tools – Humidity and beach days make them unnecessary.
Large beach gear – Chairs, umbrellas, and snorkel gear are often provided or rentable.
Pro tip: If you won’t use it more than once, leave it at home.
Doing my dance in my Hawaiian Lilly Pulitzer dress with a mai tai at the Grand Wailea.
FREEBIES AND DISCOUNTS! Free Hawaii Packing Essentials Printable Checklist Download
Want a FREE printable/downloadable list with everything in this post? Click here: Packing Essentials for Hawaii or see our list of things to buy straight from Amazon: Hawaii Packing Essentials
Find the best rate to visit paradise by booking your room through Booking.com Not only will you find the best rate out there but by clicking this link and booking a night, I receive a commission at no additional cost to you! PLEASE support our blog and bookmark this link! :-) Thanks!
Hawaii Packing Checklist FAQs
What should you definitely pack for Hawaii?
Pack lightweight clothing, swimsuits, sandals, comfortable walking shoes, reef-safe sunscreen, a reusable water bottle, and a light jacket for evenings or higher elevations.
What should you NOT pack for Hawaii?
Avoid heavy jackets, high heels, too many outfits, non-reef-safe sunscreen, bulky beach gear, and full-size toiletries. Hawaii’s climate and casual style make most of these unnecessary.
Do you need a jacket in Hawaii?
Usually no. A light sweater or windbreaker is enough for cooler evenings or breezy areas. The only exception is visiting higher elevations like Haleakalā or Mauna Kea.
Can you buy essentials in Hawaii instead of packing them?
Yes. Stores like Target, Walmart, CVS, and local markets are widely available, making it easy to buy sunscreen, toiletries, and beach items after you arrive.
Is reef-safe sunscreen required in Hawaii?
Yes. Hawaii restricts sunscreens containing oxybenzone and octinoxate to help protect coral reefs. Always bring or buy reef-safe sunscreen.
What shoes are best to pack for Hawaii?
Sandals, flip-flops, and comfortable walking shoes are ideal. Most travelers don’t need dress shoes or heels due to Hawaii’s relaxed dress code.
How many outfits should I pack for Hawaii?
Fewer than you think. Plan to rewear casual outfits and focus on swimsuits, cover-ups, and breathable clothing rather than packing a new outfit for each day.
Do hotels in Hawaii provide beach gear?
Many hotels and resorts provide beach towels, chairs, umbrellas, and sometimes snorkel gear. Check your hotel amenities before packing large items.
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Ideas for Winter Family Travel 2022
Looking for a change of scenery, or want to get away from the cold winter weather? Why not book a family holiday this winter. There are many great places to choose between – from sunny escapes to snowy mountain towns. We’ve put together a list of things to do and places to go that families will love, so pack your bags and get ready for some fun.
Northern Lights in Tromso, Norway
Family holiday inspiration for winter
Check out this amazing guest post written by Mike Sheer!
Looking for a change of scenery, or want to get away from the cold winter weather? Why not book a family holiday this winter. There are many great places to choose between – from sunny escapes to snowy mountain towns. We’ve put together a list of things to do and places to go that families will love, so pack your bags and get ready for some fun.
Hobbiton in Auckland, New Zealand
1. New Zealand
27% of parents say travel helps their children to be more brave and adventurous. And where better to be adventurous than in New Zealand? The country is renowned for its natural beauty. Families can explore stunning landscapes, from towering mountains to verdant rainforests, and encounter unique wildlife, such as kiwis and tuataras.
It’s also home to a vibrant culture, with a rich Maori heritage and a growing food scene. Families can learn about the country's history and customs while enjoying delicious local produce. And with plenty of activities on offer, from hiking and biking to kayaking and surfing, there's something for everyone to enjoy.
New Zealand has four seasons per year but because it’s located in the southern hemisphere, these come at different times, with their summer falling at the same time as the northern hemisphere’s winter. So it’s a great opportunity to escape the cold too!
Side note: Josh and I went here on our honeymoon and went to visit Hobbiton! Anyone watching the new Lord of the Rings series?!
Visiting Reindeer in Tromso, Norway
2. Lapland
Lapland is a truly magical place, and there is no better time to visit than during the winter months. Families can enjoy all the festive activities that the region has to offer, from meeting Santa Claus and his reindeer to going on a sleigh ride through the snow-covered forests, and curling up in front of the fire with a delicious hot cocoa.
In addition, Lapland is home to some of the best ski resorts in Europe, making it the perfect destination for a winter sports holiday if you’re looking for something more active.
With so much to see and do, it's no wonder that families flock to Lapland every year. So if you're looking for a truly unforgettable Christmas experience, be sure to add Lapland to your list of must-visit destinations.
Check out how we found the Northern Lights in Norway!
Disneyland Paris
3. Disneyland Paris
Disneyland Paris is the perfect destination for families who are looking for an unforgettable vacation. The park offers a wide range of activities that will appeal to people of all ages, from thrilling rides to enchanting shows, and extra festive events throughout the winter season to get everyone in the Christmas spirit.
There is also a variety of dining options available, so everyone can find something to their taste. Best of all, Disneyland Paris is home to some of the most iconic characters in the world, making it the perfect place to create lifelong memories. So why not take the whole family on a magical journey to Disneyland Paris?
Winter is a great time to take a family vacation. We’ve shared some of our favourite winter destinations, but we want to hear from you. Where do you like to go on winter vacations? Let us know in the comments below and don’t forget to share this post with your friends and family.
Wanna read s’more? Did someone say s’mores?
Family Vacation Ideas for School Holidays (Pandemic Friendly)
Guest post featuring inspiring ideas on where to travel during school holidays! Don’t knock a staycation until you’ve tried it! #traveltips
Image from Unsplash
Best Family Vacation Getaways for School Holidays (Pandemic Friendly)
Written by Emma Grace Brown
School holidays are a welcome respite from the ongoing burden of everyday life and routine. But while your kids may be thrilled by the idea of days off from school, the prospect of summer break or winter holidays isn’t quite as appealing to parents. There are activities to book, laziness to nip in the bud, and vacations to plan. And as we emerge from the pandemic, travel options may be more restricted than before.
But it’s nothing a little planning and foresight can’t fix! According to Travel Agent Central, 85% of Americans plan to travel this upcoming year. There are lots of options - and contrary to popular belief, vacations can be pandemic-friendly. Here, we share some ideas and activities for the whole family.
Get Out of the House
Embarking on a new adventure after years of being stuck at home will be a special memory for your children. Pandemic guidelines are constantly changing, so your best bet is to remain within the country rather than exploring other worldwide destinations. An all-inclusive resort in a beach town may be the move for you and your family to experience the healing benefits of water. Or else, book a unique and exciting property near you for a more intimate, peaceful stay. You’d be surprised at how much fun you can have exploring the woods with your kids or setting off on daily hikes by foregoing the typical amusement park staples.
Home Is Where the Fun Is
In our opinion, you don’t even need to step outside your home to enjoy the calming and relaxing benefits of vacationing. Opt for fun activities that get the whole family involved if you’re not quite ready to venture out into the world. The sky is the limit here: you could do family movie night with all the snack fixings or go camping - in your backyard. Pick a hobby for the whole family to work on together - be it painting, sewing, or pottery, and stay comfortable in some new clothing like a pair of leggings or a loose but flattering T-shirt. According to Zapier, learning a new skill together is one of the best ways to create unique bonding moments.
Just be sure to put up a boundary between fun time and chore time, as kids may find it difficult to differentiate different activities taking place in the same environment. Setting up a physical limit around your property will also be beneficial to ensure safety when the kids are out and about. If your property needs a fence, it’s best to get that sorted prior to embarking on your home vacation. Before meeting with a fencing contractor, evaluate companies by reading online testimonials, recommendations, and reviews. The average homeowner spends around $4,500 to install a new fence, but the total cost will depend on your area, materials, and size. When looking up “fence contractors near me,” be sure to check your contractor is licensed, insured, and updated on underground utility lines.
A Happy Medium
Are you looking for the perfect balance between staying in and going out? A staycation is the ideal solution for your family! Book in at a hotel or Airbnb in your city, and take the struggle out of traveling and commuting. Remember to pack some games, lots of snacks and enjoy luxuriating in a new setting that’s not too far from home. It will be a welcome treat for your kids, but without the commitment of planning travel in these changing times.
We’ve all been stuck in an endless cycle of work from home, virtual school, zoom workouts, and online shopping. All that digital presence may have you (and your kids) craving some good old-fashioned vacation time. While it may not yet be safe to take off on a far-flung, exotic vacation, there are many options closer to home that are pandemic-friendly. Whether you opt for that staycation or book a stay in secluded woods or a ski slope, we hope this time is a memorable bonding experience for your family. Happy vacationing!
More from the Sweetest Escapes:
How to Plan an Affordable and Stress-Free Vacation
Traveling is a great way to expand your horizons and gain a fresh perspective on life. But it can also be stressful and expensive. Whether you're leaving for the weekend or heading on a months' long excursion around the world, good research and planning will ensure your trip is both enjoyable and affordable. Let’s explore some budget-friendly resources to help you plan the perfect getaway.
Photo via Pexels
How to Plan an Affordable and Stress-Free Vacation
Traveling is a great way to expand your horizons and gain a fresh perspective on life. But it can also be stressful and expensive. Whether you're leaving for the weekend or heading on a months' long excursion around the world, good research and planning will ensure your trip is both enjoyable and affordable. Let’s explore some budget-friendly resources to help you plan the perfect getaway.
We teamed up with Travel Travesty and check out their website to find more great stress-free travel tips like these!
Know When to Splurge
To skimp or splurge is a common debate among travelers. Traveling on a budget doesn’t have to mean skipping out on every luxury. Here are some purchases that are worth the cost.
● Consider buying good travel insurance that covers everything from canceled flights to illness and injury.
● If you're planning a road trip, you'll need some essentials for your vehicle. Check out maintenance tips and reviews for products that will help you get your car ready for the ride and keep it in good shape.
● It can be worth investing in a once-in-a-lifetime experience in a destination you are unlikely to visit again.
● As a way of fully immersing yourself in local culture, order plate after plate of authentic local food!
Leave the Beaten Path
More often than not, you will experience a cheaper and more authentic travel experience when you veer off the beaten path and talk to the locals.
● Instead of relying on guidebooks, ask the locals for advice.
● Slow down and take your time getting to each destination, enjoying the sights along the way.
● Walk, bike, or drive around without a destination in mind. Wander aimlessly and don’t be afraid to get lost!
Learn to Be Flexible
Flexibility is one of the most valuable traveler traits. Travel rarely goes as planned, so be ready to adapt and go with the flow!
● If you’re flexible with your travel dates and destinations, you can find incredible deals on flights.
● Travel during the off-season to beat the crowds and peak-season prices.
● Be ready to break your itinerary and do something spontaneous when the opportunity arises — this is how the best memories are made!
While there’s no wrong way to travel, some forms of travel are more enjoyable than others. If you’re rushing from attraction to attraction, fighting crowds, and splurging on overpriced souvenirs just for the sake of it, you’re going to experience travel fatigue before you know it. Take it slow, make your own path, and embrace the unexpected!
Check out our recent posts:
Planning and Packing for Travel in 2021
2020 was the year for canceled travel plans, but 2021 has made it possible for plans to start being made again. We teamed up with our friends at Soulful Travel to create a travel planning guide to get you back in the swing of travel and ready for the new norm.
Image via Unsplash
Planning and Packing for Pandemic Travel
The virus canceled countless travel plans over the course of 2020, but progress has made it possible for plans to start being made again. That said, it’s important to plan responsibly so that your travel during the pandemic is as problem-free as possible. We teamed up with our friends at Soulful Travel to create a guide to get you back in the swing of travel and ready for the new norm.
Choosing a Destination
Consider potential destinations in terms of how they have handled the coronavirus crisis. For instance, Everyday Health suggests looking for places that have an established trend of cases decreasing, allow free movement into and out of the area, and have easy access to treatment.
Whenever possible, always plan different outdoor activities. The virus is highly unlikely to transmit when people are outside, so choose fun activities like going to the beach or hiking that allow you to keep a comfortable and safe distance in the open air. It’s a wonderful time to visit any natural wonders you've been dreaming of visiting, as they are the perfect excuse to stay in the sunshine and under the stars.
International Travel
With vaccination efforts fully underway in many places and infections on the decline, countries are beginning to open back up their borders to international guests. While many aspects of transcontinental travel remain the same, some countries are requiring international travelers to provide proof of vaccination before they can enter, while others have changed their stances on dual citizenship passports. Always do research before planning your trip.
Consider this list of questions before deciding on a destination:
● Do I need to be vaccinated?
● What kind of proof is required?
● Will my passport still work?
● If not, can I get a new one in time for travel?
● Do they have a mandatory quarantine period upon entrance?
● What are the country’s restrictions for moving about within and outside of its borders?
If you do travel outside the United States, make sure to bring a universal plug adapter and smart suitcase to make your trip as seamless as possible.
Domestic Travel
If you’d prefer to travel closer to home, state and national parks are excellent options for outdoor activities, the features of which can have a powerful impact on those who visit. Ask anyone who has hiked the Grand Canyon about it, and they will reply with an almost mystical look in their eyes, remembering the breadth and beauty of it. The same could be said for many of the stunningly gorgeous sites of the natural world these parks host. National parks have made a move toward integrating Wi-Fi and establishing cell towers nearby, so it is easier than ever to stay connected even when in the wild.
What to Pack
Pandemic traveling calls for a few extras in your travel bags. Sanitizing wipes, face masks and a digital thermometer are all good investments. Packing food and drinks can help keep you from having to enter too many places, and bringing your own toilet paper and wipes can save you if travel stops along the way have their bathrooms closed to the public due to the pandemic.
Selfie sticks are a great way to get the photos you want of you and your travel companions without having to ask strangers to touch your camera or phone. Solar chargers are perfect for time spent in the great outdoors, and with a mobile hotspot, you can get service wherever you may be. Also, if you plan to use your smartphone for navigation during your road trips, purchase a reliable mount for your car that will allow you to use your device hands-free.
The virus doesn't have to keep you from making memories of exploring new places. Choose your destination wisely, research extensively to make smart plans, and pack with safety and connectivity in mind. Your sweet escape is waiting for you.
Traveling to Maui in 2021: How to prepare, have fun, or even WFH (Work From Hawaii)
We went to Maui, Hawaii, in October 2020 after they lifted the mandatory 14-day quarantine as long as you arrive with a negative test from a trusted partner. See everything you need to know and what Hawaii is like during the pandemic.
Updated Dec 26th, 2020
WFH - Work from Hawaii
How to Travel to Maui after October 2020, what it’s like, and WFH - Work from Hawaii!
We go to Hawaii every year and not even 2020 can stop us. We had booked our trip back in February before the shutdown and even in March, we figured we’d have no problem taking our annual trip in October. Boy were we wrong! Luckily our timing was perfect, the 2-week quarantine requirement was lifted (as long as you come with a negative test) for Hawaii on Oct 15, 2020, and our trip was booked for the following week.
RELATED POST: How much does it cost to go to Maui in 2021? - Itinerary, budget, and more!
The vibe was different, as it was less crowded than usual and we were on high alert taking all precautions. It was still relaxing and fun as we tried new adventures, a new place to stay, and a couple of different restaurants. Less worrisome than running around Los Angeles.
Here is everything you need to know about getting to Maui and what it’s like there during the pandemic…
PLEASE check the Hawaiian Government Health site for the latest protocols and procedures.
What you need to do to get into Hawaii
The hardest (and most stressful) part of our trip was getting tested to go to Maui.
Per the Hawaiian government site:
The pre-travel testing program for COVID-19 began Oct. 15, 2020. Pre-travel testing enables travelers to avoid a mandatory 10-day quarantine if they are tested within 72 hours before their flight to Hawaii departs with an FDA-approved nucleic acid amplification test (NAAT).
Passengers must receive and have proof of their negative test result prior to the flight’s departure. The State of Hawaii will ONLY accept test results from TRUSTED TESTING AND TRAVEL PARTNERS. Please see the list of partners at https://hawaiicovid19.com/travel-partners/ Upon arrival in Hawaii travelers will have their temperature checked as the exit their aircraft. Passengers unable to provide proof of an approved negative test from a trusted testing and travel partner will be required to quarantine for 10 days or the duration of their trip, whichever is shorter. For more information and an FAQ please visit https://hawaiicovid19.com/travel/
Passengers must receive and have proof of their negative test result prior to the flight’s departure. The State of Hawaii will ONLY accept test results from TRUSTED TESTING AND TRAVEL PARTNERS. We looked at all the options and were nervous about the self-administered test as we hadn’t had any COVID tests at all, this was not the time to botch a test. We had 72 hours to get tested and get our results. None of the tests were covered by insurance and were all in the $140 range.
We went with CVS since there was a location close to us in Santa Monica. We booked at midnight 3 days prior to get the designated time and day we wanted. It’s tricky since you need need to be within 72 hours prior to departure and most places say they’ll have results between 2-5 days. We tested on a Monday at 10a at CVS and got our negative results on Weds around 8pm, which was less than 12 hours until we had to be at the airport.
Again, PLEASE check the Hawaiian Government Health site for the latest protocols and procedures.
Stopped and had lunch
Air Travel October 2020
LAX was a breeze! We’ve never seen it so empty, except for the line at the Hudson News for bottled water.
We had extra legroom seats booked so we thought we’d board first. Nope. United was boarding back to front to eliminate less exposure to people walking by. I guess that makes sense. We were worried about overhead bin space since we had 2 carry-ons and the snorkel gear in a mesh bag but flight attendants were keeping them clear.
As soon as we stepped on the plane, the United flight attendant handed us a sanitizing wipe for your tray, seat, armrest, seatbelt, window, etc. After takeoff, the flight attendants came through handing out a baggie with another sanitizing wipe, water bottle, and snacks. Don’t worry there was still a beverage service.
During the flight, masks were required unless you were eating or drinking. May I suggest getting a comfortable adjustable mask like the Travleisure Adjustable Reusable Mask.
Once we landed in Maui, we were required to show our QR code from the mandatory State of Hawaii Travel and Health form. Make sure you fill everything out ahead of time and take the questionnaire. Our status said “manual approval was required,” but that was because we didn’t complete all the steps! We answered the questions, and voila, QR code appeared. After we showed we had the QR code we had to hop in a line to check-in with an agent who needed our ID and the QR code. After a few questions, they handed us a piece of paper and said ALOHA!
We picked up our Jeep from Alamo (where there was NO line) and proceeded on our merry way. Also, Alamo has a fleet of BRAND NEW Jeeps! Pro tip: We got a padlock to attach to the door handle (or undercarriage) for the electronic car key so if we both got in the water the key wouldn’t break or get stolen if unattended.
RELATED POST: How much does it cost to go to Maui in 2021? - Itinerary, budget, and more!
Sunset views from our Airbnb condo at the Papakea Resort
Where to Airbnb Stay in Maui
We typically stay at the Sheraton Maui, but it wasn’t opening until November and they canceled our reservation! We booked the Hyatt Regency Maui (that’s where the penguins and flamingos are), but thought we’d try something different and stay in an Airbnb condo in Kaanapali.
The condo at the Papakea Resort had EVERYTHING we needed - from boogie boards to any pot or pan or kitchen utensil you can think of to laundry, this place was like being at home. We loved spending time on the patio with the gorgeous waterfront views! We had a few questions and the host responded right away. The bed is a little firm, but definitely not a deal-breaker. There is a grocery store, food trucks, and a few restaurants are within walking distance. Kaanapali Beach and Lahaina are just a quick drive down the road. There's a little bit of beach to hop in the ocean and wasn't too crowded during the day.
The wifi was great, good enough for us both to work, so we decided to extend our stay a week and WFH - Worked From Hawaii!
Hawaii is even offering a remote work program called Movers and Shakas which includes free flights and discounted hotels or lodging, as well as restaurant discounts. This is a great way to stimulate the economy in Hawaii and help their community! Currently, it looks like Oahu is the only option for this offer.
Things to Do in Maui Right Now
With fewer people on the island, take advantage of the following:
Snorkel Black Rock - there were more fish than usual and fewer people than any trip. Some of the hotels are still closed or at a lower capacity so the beach is pretty empty!
Go Diving! We did a shore dive with Extended Horizons and had our very own guide! Normally we go out on a boat and there are a ton of people but it was so nice to have our own guide and feel safe from exposure. We did a twilight and night dive with Dave at Black Rock and saw a ton of fish, lobsters, turtles, nudibranchs, and even a shark!
Road to Hana - Not all stops are open, but there are fewer tourists and tour buses! Take advantage of some Hana beach stops!
Go for a hike! Some trails are closed, but we hiked the Waihee Ridge trail and it wasn’t too bad. The view stays pretty much the same, you just are higher in elevation. It was a nice sunny hike that took us about 2 hours round trip, over 2 miles, and almost 1500 ft in elevation per my Apple Watch. Lots of parking, easy in and out, and porta-potties.
Waihee Ridge Trail - Kahekili Hwy, Wailuku, HI 96793
Waihee Ridge Trail
Duke’s Beach House Hula Pie
Where to Eat in Maui
Some of our favorite restaurants weren’t open or tough to get in. A lot of them offered to-go options so we often picked up food and ate it on our balcony with ocean views. See ALL of our favorite restaurants here:
Best Food Trucks and Restaurant Take-out Options in Lahaina/Kaanapali
Lunch at Tin Roof - We ALWAYS stop at Tinroof after we land and pick-up a pork and chicken plate to take to the beach to enjoy! Don’t forget to order the babinga cake for dessert!
Address: 360 Papa Pl Ste 116, Kahului, HI 96732
Breakfast at Island Press Coffee - You can’t go wrong with an egg, cheese, and bacon croissant with a Mac nut latte! They also have other croissant variations as well as other pastries (try the crumb cake). We went here twice, taking our breakfast to go to enjoy on the beach!
Address: 2580 Kekaa Dr STE 104, Lahaina, HI 96761
Breakfast at Java Jazz - Within walking distance of the Papakea resort, we picked up breakfast to go a few times here. Our favorites were Coconut Mac Nut lattes, Hawaiian Omelette (ham, pineapple, onion, cheese) with potatoes, and pancakes with apple cinnamon topping. Indoor seating also available.
Address: 3350 Lower Honoapiilani Rd, Lahaina, HI 96761
Breakfast or Lunch at TaquerEATa Food Truck - Gina serves up some mean tacos Texan style so they are jam-packed tacos, perfect for any appetite! I had the chicken fajita which was amazing! We also made a few build your own breakfast tacos with a combination of egg, cheese, bacon, and pork! There are lots of salsa options from mild to hot to complete your perfect taco.
Address: 737 Waine'e St, Lahaina, HI 96761
Lunch at Aloha Braised Food Truck - We went here two days in a row we liked it so much. It’s a little off the beaten path but also conveniently located next to a grocery store and near our favorite dive shop, Extended Horizons! If you like spicy, you must try the Volcano Chicken (fried chicken with spicy mayo) served with rice and mac salad! Josh liked the pork belly! Get a side of fries to share!
Address: 58 Kupuohi St, Lahaina, HI 96761
Dinner from Sale Pepe - Best pizza in Maui! An Italian and New Yorker teamed up to create the perfect menu of Italian food in Lahaina. We liked the pasta, but we loved the PIZZA! We ordered 2 pizzas and a pasta dish and got 3 meals out of it for the 2 of us. Our favorite pizza was the Tomato, Fior di Latte, Red Onion, Pecorino, Maui Cattle Co. Meatballs Pizza. They cut their slices in 4ths, so if you want smaller pieces I suggest you request it when you order! Indoor seating also available here.
Address: 878 Front St #7,8, Lahaina, HI 96761
Lunch or Dinner at Maui Brew Company - We picked up some brews for the condo and took food to go, but you could sit and enjoy a meal at a table or at the bar.
Address: 4405 HI-30 Ste 217, Lahaina, HI 96761
Sunset at Merriman’s October 2020
Restaurants to eat at with open-air seating
Dinner at Merriman’s Grill - Merriman’s is offering dinner service on the patio and it is the perfect place to go for a sunset dinner and Mai Tais! The tables are all outdoors and spread apart. Try and get there an hour and a half before sunset if you want a table to see the sun go down! Check their website for their daily specials but I have to say the perfect dinner was the house burger, garlic truffle fries, and homemade Klondike bar!
Address: 1 Bay Club Pl, Lahaina, HI 96761
Lunch or Dinner at Duke’s Beach House Maui - The iconic Duke’s is now open and we enjoyed a lovely sunset dinner here complete with Mai Tais and Hula Pie!
Address: 130 Kai Malina Pkwy, Lahaina, HI 96761
Lunch or Dinner at Kimo’s Maui in Lahaina - After a long WFH day, I needed a Mai Tai! We ended up at Kimo’s and I had a delicious prime rib, while Josh had the fish and chips. We completed the meal with a huge slice of Hula Pie!
Address: 845 Front St a, Lahaina, HI 96761
Overall, our trip was fantastic! The test was the hardest part, but once we got there, it was nice to spend 10 days and live like a local!
RELATED POST: How much does it cost to go to Maui in 2021? - Itinerary, budget, and more!
Please note this is not a sponsored post and based on my own personal experience, all thoughts are my own.
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HOW TO SPEND 4 DAYS ON YOUR MAUI VACATION - COMPLETE ITINERARY WITH MAP
How do you spend 4 days in paradise?! Come check out our 4-day vacation itinerary in Maui with our favorite things to do! Where to go and what to do when traveling to Maui, our favorite island to visit in Hawaii #maui #hawaii #itinerary
Kaanapali Beach - Black Rock
Updated: January 12, 2026
What to do for 4 days in Maui, Hawaii - FULL ITINERARY AND MAP
Maui is our absolute favorite place in the world! We got engaged, then married there a year later. Now, we return EVERY year to celebrate our anniversary and relive our favorite memories.
This itinerary is part of our Ultimate Maui Travel Guide, where we cover hotels, food, activities, and travel tips.
Hawaii is calling and I must go sign in our apt!
Do as our sign in our apartment says, "Hawaii is calling and I must go!" We got this sign at Sand People in Maui, my favorite shop!
There are so many different things to do in Maui, but here is our favorite itinerary! Whether this is your first trip to Maui, or tenth, we hope you love our suggestions.
This post may contain affiliate links of services that we love! If you book anything through these links, we get a commission at no cost to you! Help support the blog by saving and using these links.
Before you go, check out everything you need to pack for Hawaii here: Packing Checklist for Hawaii - includes a helpful list of items you can buy straight from Amazon!
Here is a map made with the Wanderlog Travel Planner, so you can follow along, add to your Google maps account, or create your own personal map! Wanderlog allows you to create great maps and guides for any vacation!
DAY 1
FLIGHT & CAR RENTAL
Front Street - Lahaina
We take the 8:30a American flight from LAX and the airport to fly into Maui is known as OGG. It's about 5 hours to get there and with the time difference, we arrive at the hotel around noon and have almost a whole day to do something fun on the island.
It's hard to get around the island without a car. We always rent a Jeep through Costco Travel to save money and get the best car to tour the island. We love the ones with the removable roof!
Don't have a Costco membership? That's ok, Booking.com also has great deals on car rentals or you can get a fairly decent rate on an airport transfer (if you don’t want to drive)!
What does Maui mean? Fun fact: This name belongs to a trickster god in Polynesian mythology!
RELATED POST: How much does it cost to go to Maui? - Itinerary, budget, and more!
Maui Rainbows are everywhere!
BEST MAUI RESORT HOTELS
We like to stick the Kaanapali stretch of hotels mainly because there is a lot to do and you can walk (or swim) everywhere. We love the Sheraton Maui Resort, which is located at the end of the Ka’anapali hotel stretch, against the black rock. We ALWAYS find THE BEST rates through Booking.com. See deals of up to 50% off! You can save a bunch of money if you book a bundle flight+room+rental car! If you are looking for a place to stay with more people, they even have offers for apartments and houses you can rent, just like AirBnB or VRBO!
Before you go, check out everything you need to pack for Hawaii here: Packing Checklist for Hawaii
Sheraton Maui Resort Pool - Lagoon
Check out our entry for more on the Sheraton: Hotel Review: Sheraton Maui Resort and Spa
Check-in is normally 3p, so we try and check-in to see if our room is ready early, and if not we head to get lunch at one the pool bars (Cliff Dive Bar or Mai Tai Bar) and a Mai Tai! YUM!
Usually, our room is ready right after lunch, giving us time to move in and get ready for our first adventure.
AFTERNOON: SNORKELING
The best part about the end of the Kaanapali beach is the Black Rock, in front of the Sheraton Resort. Where it might seem like a hideous black lava rock, under the sea you can find gorgeous coral, tons of fish, and usually see a turtle or two. We’ve even seen a few octopuses but you have to look hard for them! Also, try a different spin on snorkeling and take sailing and snorkel trip to Honolua! Their catamaran is a BEAUTY!
Snorkeling in Maui - Turtle sighting
Another great spot is Kapalua Bay. Even though the clarity isn't as great as around Black Rock, there are still plenty of fish to see. On one of our swims, we saw 6 turtles! We parked in a free beach parking lot (or there is street parking) next to Merriman's, and walked through the tunnel near the valet for beach access.
RELATED POST: See more in our 5 Best Snorkel Spots in Maui
Kapalua Bay
Don’t forget to pack a hat!
EVENING: DINNER AT MAUI BREW CO BREWPUB
NEW Location: 2525 Kaanapali Pkwy, Lahaina, HI 96761
Note: the Maui Brewing Company Kahana Gateway Shopping Center location permanently closed in 2025.
This is a perfect place for good brews and bar food especially if you are coming back from a swim in Kapalua! The Maui onion dip and buffalo chicken wings are our favorite items on the menu! They put all of their beers on menu chalkboards in the restaurant and switch them out occasionally. You can also purchase beers there and take them home! We had them package up a few cans of beers we couldn’t buy on the mainland - all beers made it home just fine in our checked bag. There are also TV's throughout the restaurant if you are looking to root for your favorite sports team.
Fun fact: Did you know Maui Brew Co is independently owned? Garrett Marrero is a Poway native and the owner and found of the Maui Brewing Company, with local production on Maui itself! You can even tour the brewery for $20 in Kehei.
RELATED POST: Want more dinner options? Check out our post for our Top 10 Restaurants in Maui, Hawaii
DAY 2
ROAD TO HANA - FULL DAY TRIP
We’ve done the Road to Hana a few times since there are so many different things to do and see along the way. Some of our favorite stops include:
Black Sand Beach
Lava Tubes
Red Sand Beach
Coconut Glen's ice cream
Haleakala National Park (2 hours - if you do the long hike)
Don’t want to drive the windy roads? I don’t blame you! Book a seat with this Road to Hana Tour as recommended by a local!
Pro Tip: Check out our complete guide with a map of our favorite stops: Guide to the Road to Hana
Don't forget to stop to try some of Coconut Glen's homemade ice cream! They serve organic, vegan, dairy free ice cream, using coconuts from the jungles of Maui. Don't let "organic, vegan, dairy free ice cream" scare you. TRUST ME, you won’t regret it.
See my full review here: Coconut Glen's Homemade Ice Cream
Mai Tai at Mama’s Fish House
EVENING: MAMA'S FISH HOUSE
799 Poho Pl, Paia, HI 96779
On our way back from the road to Hana adventure, we stopped at Mama's Fish House for dinner. Make sure you make a reservation in advance, we used Opentable. Parking is valet only.
I'm not a fish person particularly, but I did try some of our friends Mahi Mahi dish and it was the best fish I’ve ever had. I enjoyed their short rib and a couple of Mai Tai's (love that it's served in a tiki glass)!
DAY 3
MORNING: SCUBA DIVING
Since we are scuba certified, we love to go diving at different locations in Maui.
We loved the company, Extended Horizons in Lahaina, they go to the best spots and have amazing diving instructors. The dive site, Cathedral II, was one of my favorite dives! We went through a lava tube which was basically a cave with holes in the back, creating a fun place to explore! Check out the weird-looking slipper lobsters we found on the dive in our video! Some other great spots include Molokini Crater, the Carthaginian shipwreck, and Olowalu Reef, also known as turtle reef!
Extended Horizons trips depart from Lahaina, which is very convenient for staying on Kaanapali beach! Whale season runs from November to May, which you can often see the humpback whales breach above water and you can often hear them while diving underwater.
They lost their shop and their boat in the Lahaina fire but still offer dives!
Want to set sail but not scuba? You can always rent a boat from our friends at Get My Boat, which is like Airbnb for boats!
Related Post: BEST SCUBA DIVE SITES IN MAUI
AFTERNOON: MASSAGES
We book our massages at the hotel typically the day we check-in, and look forward to them every day.
We love getting our annual couples massage at the resort, especially after a few scuba dives or doing a trip to Hana. We usually get a basic full body massage for 50 mins, but this last time we went for the 80 mins and it was worth every penny. The rooms are patio like with natural sunlight peaking from the top, complete with soothing Hawaiian tunes. Ahhh.. relaxing just thinking about it.
POOL SIDE
Grab your flip flops! We like to bring a book, a magazine, cards, or scroll through Instagram by the pool. This is where I started my research to start a travel blog! I may have ordered a few drinks to think it was a GREAT idea!
Various colors and prints available on Amazon.com
Before you go, check out everything you need to pack for Hawaii here: Packing Checklist for Hawaii
EVENING: SHOPPING & DINNER
We walked down to Whaler's Village for some shopping and grab dinner at the Barefoot Bar.
The Barefoot Bar is more casual ($$) serving burgers, fish and chips, pizza. The fun part about the bar, your feet are in the sand. Usually, they have live music and entertainment.
I love their Mai Tai's which are served in tiki glasses topped with the umbrella! Presentation is everything to me. You MUST try the Hula pie! It’s vanilla or macadamia nut ice cream with an Oreo crumble pie crust, with whipped cream and fudge on top! OR try their enormous brownie ice cream sandwich. It’s a hard choice… just get both!
Need more options? There is also the Monkeypod Kitchen Restaurant in Whaler's Village that opened from the owners of Merriman's. We’ve literally tried everything on the menu and can’t recommend it enough - don’t skip out on the chicken wings or the mai tai with the honey foam! Check out our full review for more on Monkeypod: Restaurant Review: Monkeypod Restaurant
DAY 4
MORNING: HALEAKALA SUNRISE
Sunrise at Haleakala
Parking: Haleakala Summit Parking, Kula, HI 96790 - You MUST make a reservation in advance as parking is limited! Reservations can be secured two months in advance and up until 6pm the day before your visit. See more information and tips on visiting Haleakala here: HALEAKALA CRATER
We got up at 2am and hit the road by 3am to drive about 2 hours to the top of Haleakala Summit. Check the sunrise times and try to arrive about an hour beforehand for a spot in the lot.
It gets pretty chilly at almost 10,000 feet. I wore layers including exercise clothes with sweatpants and sweatshirt on top. Bring snacks and water (and coffee) too!
If you don't want to drive (the roads are very windy up and down the mountain at very early hours), take this guided tour with Roberts Hawaii where they will pick up, take you to the top, feed you 2 meals, and bring you back. You can rest easy and even take a nap!
Since the sunrise viewing in atop of a mountain, there are many spots to watch the sunrise from and not a bad view. As the sky starts to change cameras come out, and the sun rises through the clouds. It's one of the best sunrises I've ever seen in my life. Fun Fact: Josh proposed to me here!
Mauimosas at Kula Lodge
BREAKFAST @ KULA LODGE
15200 Haleakala Hwy, Kula, HI 96790
On the way down from Haleakala, we stopped at Kula Lodge for spectacular views, a delicious breakfast (eggs benedict was my fave), and a Maui-mosa - they use pineapple instead of orange juice.
AFTERNOON: NAP AND POOL-TIME
By the time we got back to the hotel, it was time for a nap and relaxation. We took a quick nap, then went to hang out by the pool and snorkel in the ocean.
Black Rock Jumpers
EVENING: DINNER AT MERRIMAN'S KAPALUA
Address: 1 Bay Club Pl, Lahaina, HI 96761
We made a reservation about a month in advance to make sure we could get there for some cocktails and sunset.
This fine-dining restaurant ($$$$) is the perfect spot in west Maui for sunset drinks and dinner. Located right on the water, you’ll overlook the waters of Kapalua Bay. Their cocktails are superb, made with fresh ingredients. The farm to table menu has a variety of Hawaiian fish and my favorite is the chimichurri savory steak.
Don’t forget about ordering some dessert! I enjoyed their homemade ice cream and cones (of course). It's about a 15 min drive from the Kaanapali resorts.
Wwoof, what a trip. But how amazing did it look?! :) Let us know what you think or if you have any suggestions in the comments below!
We ALWAYS find THE BEST rates through Booking.com. See deals of up to 50% off! You can save a bunch of money if you book a bundle flight+room+rental car! They even have apartments, lodges, and houses you can rent, just like AirBnB or VRBO! By booking through this link, I receive a commission at no additional cost to you! PLEASE support our blog and bookmark this link!
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Hobbiton really exists and I want to live there! See the movie set in New Zealand!
Hobbiton really exists and I want to live there! See why you must visit this movie set in New Zealand! Take the Hobbiton Village Tour from Auckland, NZ. Travel tips and Things to do in New Zealand #hobbiton #newzealand
Hobbiton really exists and I want to live there! See why you must visit this movie set in New Zealand!
We work in television, so being on set is something we're used to, but the Lord of the Rings HOBBITON movie set was awesome! I read the first Lord of the Rings books in high school and have seen a couple of the movies but I wouldn't call myself an expert or super fan by any means. This place was so picturesque and perfect, I enjoyed it way more than I thought I was going to!
Hobbiton, New Zealand
How to Get to Hobbiton from Auckland
We were staying in Auckland and booked our tour through Viator.
Click here for the Small-Group Tour: The Lord of the Rings Hobbiton Movie Set Tour from Auckland
It's around $220 USD but includes:
Transportation to and from Hobbiton
Tour of the Shire
Lunch at the Dragon Inn
A cider, ale or ginger beer inside the Green Dragon Inn
$10 Voucher for the Giftshop
It's an 8-hour tour which starts bright and early with a pickup from your hotel around 7am. We stopped at a coffee shop along the way for a little snack and stretch since it was a 2.5 hour bus ride. Sounds like a long ride, but the sites along the way were picturesque and gorgeous. The ride also allowed us to catch up on a little sleep!
Welcome to Hobbiton
Arriving at Hobbiton
When searching New Zealand for the perfect location, Jackson sought out for a tall tree near a lake that could live up to the "Party Tree" as described in the books. The perfect location for the Shire was finally found in Matamata on a working sheep farm in the heart of Waikato.
Hobbiton Map - Movie Set Tour
Sheep Farm - Hobbiton
Apparently the location scout for the movie landed his helicopter and went up to the Alexander house to inquire about using the land in an upcoming movie. Mr. Alexander's reaction was the best, he told the scout that the rugby was on, and he should come back later. He did.
To get to bag end, you must drive through the 1250 acre sheep farm owned by the Alexander family to make it up to the world’s biggest outdoor movie set.
Fun fact: with over 13,500 sheep on the farm, not one of them was shown in the film. Director, writer and producer, Peter Jackson, preferred the look of Suffolk sheep with dark faces and legs, which were brought in for filming.
Read more about Small-Group Tour: The Lord of the Rings Hobbiton Movie Set Tour from Auckland - Auckland | Viator at: Small Group Hobbiton Movie Set Tour
The Shire was built twice since it was torn down after the Lord of the Rings trilogy wrapped, then rebuilt for the Hobbit movies. The set covers 12 acres, featuring 44 hobbit holes.
Hobbit Holes!
Hobbit Holes
We started venturing into the Shire, seeing all the hobbit holes including Bilbo Baggins’s house. Between 30 and 200 plants surround each hobbit hole, employing seven to eight gardeners to maintain the beautiful agricultural grounds.
Bilbo Baggins Hobbit Hole
The holes are based on different sizes to feed to the illusion of their actual size. The holes used by actors playing hobbits were built at a 90 percent scale, while the holes used by Gandalf were built at a 60 percent scale to make him look much larger.
Most of the scenes filmed inside the holes were on a set, leaving the Hobbit holes as facades but there are some you can walk into. The inside is only about 5 feet, but still, fun to walk in!
Visiting Hobbit Holes at 60% scale
Hobbit holes ay 90% scale and a 5 foot inside
Click here for the Small-Group Tour: The Lord of the Rings Hobbiton Movie Set Tour from Auckland
This hobbit hole was my favorite! Just look at how pretty it is! We spent a lot of time here!
My favorite hobbit hole with pretty flowers!
Hobbiton was allowed to stay in New Zealand as long as they kept the grounds just as it looked in the movie.
Hobbiton Party Tree
The Party Tree
The "Party Tree" can be found on the top of the hill of Hobbiton above Bilbo's house. This 70-80 meter tall oak tree's color is greener than most because it is made of fiberglass and hand painted silk leaves that were individually wired on to each branch.
The Pond at Hobbiton
The Pond
While shooting the movies, the frogs in the pond were too noisy affecting dialogue among the characters and causing an inability to hear each other. Peter Jackson actually paid someone to move ALL of the frogs relocating them to a different pond on the sheep farm. They were put back after production wrapped.
The Green Dragon
The Green Dragon
The Green Dragon was a later edition to the farm in 2012. Southfarthing beverages can be found exclusively at the Green Dragon Inn: an apple cider, non-alcoholic ginger beer and two ales, all brewed at the Good George Brewery in Hamilton. They are served at the bar in the Green Dragon Inn. Our tour came with one, but we bought another round.
Totally worth checking out! Click here for the Small-Group Tour: The Lord of the Rings Hobbiton Movie Set Tour from Auckland
Please note this is not a sponsored post and based on my own personal experience, all thoughts are my own.
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Do You NEED Travel Insurance?
For the crazy and unprecedented events of 2020, travel insurance might be more important now more than ever for future trips! Make sure you’re protected for delays, illness, lost luggage, and even natural disasters. How do you get travel insurance? How does travel insurance work? How much does travel insurance cost? See our post for more!
For the crazy and unprecedented events of 2020, travel insurance might be more important now more than ever for future trips! Make sure you’re protected for delays, illness, lost luggage, and even natural disasters—the best travel insurance can soften the impact of unforeseen events.
How do you get travel insurance? How does travel insurance work? How much does travel insurance cost? ALL great questions that can be answered in this ultimate Travel Insurance Guide from Consumer’s Advocate.
PRO TIP: We typically book travel on our credit cards that offer travel insurance, just make sure you read the fine print!
You never know who’s watching you. Look out for pickpockets! ;-)
5 Interesting Facts About Travel Insurance
Buzzkills - Standard in most travel insurance policies is a drug and alcohol exclusion that won’t payout if you’re intoxicated. So… don’t get hurt after that mai tai in the fun tiki glass with the tiny umbrella.
How much does travel insurance cost? It depends on what type of coverage you end up getting. Typically costs range about 4-10% of the trip price. However, premium coverage or Cancel For Any Reason (CFAR) policies can be a bit more expensive. But if you can cancel a $3000 trip for $100, isn’t that worth it?
Event Cancellations - Allows for the cancellation of the trip if the specific reason for the trip--an event such as a concert or festival--is canceled.
Medical Coverage - If you are injured on your trip, some policies will fly a relative to take care of you or even emergency transport to your hospital of choice around the world. However, if you are being adventurous, check out extreme sports (bull riding, cave diving, and mixed martial arts) in the Explorer Plan vs Standard Plan activities (kite surfing, ice hockey) coverage here.
Loopholes--as they’re commonly understood--do not exist in insurance policies. While coverage can be denied for a number of reasons (drug or excessive alcohol use, for instance), those reasons are clearly laid out in the policy contract.
Zip-lining in Maui, Hawaii
5 Different Types of Travel Insurance Coverage
Basic cancellation coverage: Covers you for pre-paid, non-refundable expenses under a fixed set of circumstances outlined in your policy. You can make a claim when have to cancel a trip due to:
A health emergency or illness, for example. Depending on the policy you choose, you may also be able to make a claim
If you’re laid off from work or you’re called for jury duty (depending on the policy chosen).
If your travel provider has to cancel your trip due to a natural disaster in the destination city.
Trip delay insurance: You’ll be reimbursed for any expenses you incur as a result of your trip being delayed
Usually included with cancellation coverage.
Meals, hotel charges, and taxi fees are among the expenses covered.
Short departure delays are not covered; policies set a minimum number of hours for covered delays.
Trip interruption coverage: protects you in the event you have to return home due to an emergency once you’ve already started your trip.
It will likely pay for the cost of getting you home and getting you back to your destination once you’re able to travel again.
Cancel For Any Reason (CFAR): Offers the fullest coverage but may only make sense for you if your calendar is subject to change at a moment’s notice.
Specialized Event Coverage: covers special events for most cancellations (i.e. outdoor game gets rained out)
Have high-value items (phone, laptop, camera, etc.)? Make sure your items are within the limits of your policy; and if not, consider increasing your policy coverage!
So do you NEED travel insurance? Probably a good idea if you’re planning in 2020!
Please note this is not a sponsored post and based on my own personal experience, all thoughts are my own.
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How to Spend 3 Relaxing Days in Moorea - Complete Itinerary
How to spend 3 days in Moorea, French Polynesia! Check out our full itinerary listing about how we spent our days on our Moorea Honeymoon Trip! What to do in Moorea, where to go in Moorea, and how to get to Moorea!
What to do for 3 Days in Moorea, French Polynesia - Complete Itinerary
On our Honeymoon, we stopped in French Polynesia on our way back to the States. We were ready for some relaxation after going nonstop for over a week in Australia & New Zealand. We spent 3 nights in Moorea in an overwater bungalow and it was fabulous! Here’s everything you need to know about Moorea!
How to get to Moorea
Getting to Moorea requires a few transfers. We booked our Moorea portion through Tahiti Legends, who booked everything including our transfers from airports and hotels (we booked our own flights). We stayed at the Sofitel Moorea, in an overwater bungalow, which is something everyone must do in their lifetime! We flew via Air Tahiti Nui in business class (from New Zealand) using our miles, which was a comfortable flight with big seats and great amenities. Air Tahiti flies from Paris to LA to Tahiti to New Zealand and back. We didn’t go to Paris on this trip!
We had to stay in Tahiti overnight because our flight got in so late from New Zealand, there wasn't an option to get to Moorea after 8pm. We used our points to stay at the InterContinental. This was the view from an “average” room:
InterContinental Tahiti Room with Garden Views
Day 1
Morning in Tahiti
We had a car pick us up bright and early from the InterContinental in Tahiti to take us to the ferry. Driving around in the daylight unmasked the island and certain areas were definitely not paradise.
Aboard the Ferry from Tahiti to Moorea
We boarded the ferry around 8 am and the ride was about 20 minutes to Moorea. On the other side, a car picked us up (previously arranged) and took us about 10 minutes down the road to our hotel, the Sofitel Moorea.
We were too early for check-in when we arrived in Moorea, so we wandered around the resort to get our bearings. We walked over to the spa to check it out and made reservations for a couples massage for the late afternoon.
Entrance to our Overwater Bungalow Room
After about an hour, our room was available and we were so excited to check out our overwater bungalow. The room was spectacular and unlike any hotel we had ever stayed in!
Sofitel Moorea Overwater Bungalow Bed
The room felt like a suite. Walking in, you first notice the giant windows leading out to the water, then the high ceilings making the room feel enormous and spacious. The bed was perfectly placed in the middle of the room facing the water with a fantastic view. It had mosquito netting to which Josh said, "It's like a fort!"
Once you step in front of the bed, there is a part of the floor that has a glass square, where you could see the fish swimming under the bungalow.
Floor to see fish under our room!
Afternoon - Swim and Snorkel
Although we REALLY wanted to, you can't really jump off the deck of the bungalow, since it's pretty shallow and there is a lot of coral below. BUT you can go for a swim and there is a ton of marine life to see if you snorkel.
Just a small fish in a big pond
After a leisurely snorkel, we decided to switch it up and go over to the main pool to do more swimming (more like wading) and grab a bite to eat at the bar-restaurant.
Fish in Moorea in front of our Overwater Bungalow
In the late afternoon, we had our couples massage appointment. The spa room was huge, complete with a shower and bathtub. We only signed up for a massage but realized we could have spent an entire day at the spa. The massage was soothing and relaxing. After being in the sun all day, there was a slight burn to which aloe vera was offered. I was soothed and comforted, I could have laid face down on that table for the rest of the evening.
Day 2
WAKING UP IN MOOREA!
Sunrise in Moorea - View from Sofitel Moorea
Here's how to properly wake up in Moorea:
Not a bad way to start the day! Am I right?! From the Sofitel Moorea, we could see sunrises but the us would set on the other side of the island.
Morning - Drive around the Island of Moorea
We rented a little 2 seater buggy through Moorea Fun Roadster, which was like a small go-kart that went faster than you would expect, zooming around the island in about 4 hours. The road was bumpy at parts, but overall it was a blast! Since the island is so small it was nice to take the time to experience it on our own, checking out all there is to do!
See our post all about our buggy ride here: How to Rent a Buggy in Moorea
Afternoon in Moorea
After returning from our island tour, we were ready for some relaxation. We jumped in the water from our patio, and cooled off.
Patio stairs to the water
We spent the rest of the day on the patio of our deck playing cards with some fun drinks!
Pro tip: Buy alcohol at duty-free store at the airport and mixers if available. On our buggy ride, we stopped and bought concentrate (which we thought was juice) at the grocery store on Moorea. The concentrate was an ok way to go since you can get TONS of drinks out of it, but they get old after awhile.
Once we got too hot, we'd jump in the water, swim around, and come right back to our card game. I don't think I changed out of my swimsuit that day.
Sofitel Moorea - Overwater Bungalows
Once we needed a break from the cards, we decided to feed the fish under our bungalow which was great entertainment for at LEAST 20 minutes.
Evening in Moorea
We grabbed dinner at the bar restaurant and took it back to our room so we could do some star gazing. Since it is so quiet and so dark, there were thousands of stars to see. I don't think I've seen that many before in my life!
Stargazing in Moorea
On average, we seemed to go to bed when the sun went down (around 9-10 pm) and woke up as soon as it came back up (around 6:30-7 am). We weren't on any time zone in particular as we had been bouncing around so many places the previous week (we were in Australia and New Zealand).
Day 3
Morning in Moorea
We got up early to catch the sunrise! Since we didn’t get many sunsets here, it was nice to catch the sun coming up!
Sunrise in Moorea - Sofitel Moorea
We might have gone back to bed and then got up just in time to catch the end of breakfast at the main restaurant. The food was delicious, they offered a large spread of almost anything you could think of - eggs, omelets, french toast, pancakes, juices, coffee... and the view wasn't half bad. The only problem was the birds would try to snatch your food if you looked the other way!
Breakfast at the Sofitel Moorea
Afternoon
We packed up and checked out. Although we weren't hanging our heads quite yet, it was time to head to our next destination, Bora Bora!
Don’t forget to pack some of our favorite things:
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10 Travel Bloggers & Influencers you should be following on Instagram 2021
Looking for travel bloggers or influencers to follow that have vibrant colors to brighten up your feed? See 10 unique female travel Instagram accounts you should be following in this post! CAUTION: these accounts inspire wanderlust, getting a new wardrobe, and may make you drool over desserts. You have been warned! ;-)
I tried a few of those follow for follow groups and now I have a bunch of people I don’t know on my feed! I was looking for those amazing accounts with phenomenal travel photos to help add places to my bucket list. I lean towards accounts with bright colors, with influencers wearing clothes that I want in my wardrobe! That’s the point of being an influencer, right? I’ll give them some fun superlatives too!
@spiritedpursuit
Followers: 226k
Lee Litumbe started her lifestyle travel blog, Spirited Pursuit, which is filled with guides and information on travel as well as creating content. She’ll teach you her secrets to influencer success!
Follow @Spiritedpursuit to find her on a giant swing in Bali or swimming with turtles in Tanzania!
Superlative: Most Authentic!
@TheBlondeAbroad
Followers: 557k
Kiki is a beautiful blonde who travels the world managing to find fabulous seaside scapes! She left her corporate job for a life of travel and now has a successful travel blog with travel tips, or even advice on how to be a travel blogger.
Follow @TheBlondeAbroad for far off places and her pup, @goodbaileyboy!
Superlative: Most Popular!
@thesweetwanderlust
Followers: 13.2k
Brittany is my spirit animal! Her wanderlust is inspiring and her desserts are drool-worthy! Her captions are hilarious and have the best puns!
Follow @thesweetwanderlust for pops of color and sweet treats in your feed!
Superlative: The Sweetest!
@ticija
Followers: 69k
“That Ginger in a Dress” is her motto and she has a knack for finding the most colorful places in London!
Follow @ticija for her red hair, gorgeous floral dresses, and bright spots in London - It was so gloomy when I went!
Superlative: Best dressed!
@TravelwithKwen
Followers: 11.8k
Kwen travels the world, but we share the same love for Disney Parks! Most of her destinations are tropical and warm!
Follow @travelwithkwen for dreamy vacations and for a Disney geek out here and there!
Superlative: Most likely to be found with Mickey
@walltraveled
Followers: 36K+
This is a collection of travelers against - you guessed it - WALLS! Beautiful creative, colorful, street art walls can be seen from around the world on this feed.
Superlative: Best Sense of Street Art
@icecreamsaroundtheworld_
Followers: 4400
I post ice cream almost every third post, but you can find ice cream from around the world in almost every single post! Sharing is caring, you might even have a chance to be featured using the hashtag #IceCreamAroundTheWorld.
Superlative: Most Likely to have Ice Cream
@splendid_rags
HOLY BRIGHT COLORS, BATMAN! Leslie only posts the most vibrant backdrops and outfits from around the globe!
Superlative: Most likely to wear bright colors!
@thecarryonchronicles
Followers: 13.4k
I LOVE Elena’s beautiful dresses and photos! Her preset is beautiful and the pops of color add instant joy to my feed! Her bio literally sums up her feed: Endlessly in search of storybook villages & fairytale moments
Superlative: Most like to find Prince Charming
@emilyincolors
Followers: 10.8k
Emily is always traveling fabulous places and finding great eats! She has gorgeous clothes and an amazing appetite, sharing just the right amount of sweets! How do you stay so tiny!?
Superlative: Most likely to be a foodie!
I have a lot to live up to following these ladies! I hope my posts bring light and color into your feed!
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Hotel Review: Andaz Napa - Our favorite hotel in Downtown Napa!
We found our new favorite place to stay in Napa! We fell in love with the Andaz Napa, charming us with their boutique-style hotel and large guest rooms! Located in Downtown Napa, it was close to plenty of shops and restaurants. See our ratings and why we loved it so much!
Andaz Napa is our favorite hotel to stay, located in the heart of Downtown Napa!
We typically head to Napa for my birthday and when we last went with my family, we stayed at the Andaz located in downtown Napa, the perfect location for shopping, dining, and WINE.
Evaluation (out of 5)*:
Hotel: Andaz Napa (Hyatt Family)
Address: 1450 1st St, Napa, CA 94559
Location: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Price: $$$$ (always check Booking.com first!)
Average Room Size: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️(HUGE)
Cleanliness: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Staff: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Dining Options: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Quietness in Room: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Bed Comfort Level: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️(soft pillowtop but firm enough)
*It’s always hard to judge other people’s opinions when you don’t know them, right? I like nice, clean hotels that are close to public transpo or an area close to main restaurants and attractions. I’m a fairly light sleeper and like softer beds. We typically like to use points for one or two nights and pay for more if we need to.
Looking for something more budget-friendly? We also liked this Bed and Breakfast: The Cabernet House
Lobby and Staff at the Andaz Napa
Andaz Napa Lobby
The lobby was really cute and had great living room setups. We spent some time here since there were 6 of us. As we were checking-in, we were offered a complimentary glass of wine from a local winery! What a way to welcome! The staff was very accommodating and the valet took our luggage to our rooms. As it rains often in Northern California, there were large umbrellas by the door to borrow for the day. That was one less thing to pack… or forget to pack!
Right off the lobby, there was a lovely bar, Mercantile Social, which we would visit nightly. They also offer farm-fresh seasonal foods, from salads and smoothies to grass-fed beef burgers. Yum.
Napa Andaz Lobby Bar - Mercantile Social
Check out our favorite wineries to visit: 7 Best Kept Secret Wineries
Inside the Guest Rooms at the Andaz Napa
I fell in love with the room! We didn’t have an upgrade but we felt like we did! Our boutique type room was large and had a living room/seating area with a fireplace diving the room with the bedroom on the other side. The fireplace could be seen from both sides. The furniture was modern and I felt like I was in a West Elm catalog. Also, notice the wood floors!? I worried we’d hear people above us, but it was pretty quiet!
The beds were very comfortable and cosy by the fireplace. I guarantee a great sleep after a day of drinking. ;-) I thought it was a little strange for the bath tub to be next to the bed, but it was nice that you could see the fireplace or even watch TV while enjoying a warm bath. Other rooms have the tub near the window.
Guest Rooms at the Andaz Napa have large tubs
Or the bathtub is located by the window
Guest Room Bathrooms
My fave, the Bathroom Selfie
The bathroom was an ideal size for 2 people! 2 sinks with long counters gave me plenty of space to do my hair and make-up while Josh brushed his teeth. I liked the marble rain shower and the wood bench/seat to dry off on. I found it odd to put wood in a shower but the aesthetic was pretty!
Mercantile Terrace
I thoroughly enjoyed our drinks on the second-floor terrace. We sat outside under some lovely warm heat lamps (it was December after all) and enjoyed some specially crafted cocktails. There are also cozy fire-pits or cabanas to sit and enjoy selections from a farm-to-table menu of locally sourced light bites. Even the cocktails had locally sourced ingredients!
Mercantile Terrace
Final Evaluation
Overall, this 4-star hotel checks all the boxes. I appreciated their use of locally sourced ingredients at their bars and restaurants. Although it is a little pricey, the downtown location and room size make it worth it! We’d definitely come back!
We ALWAYS find THE BEST rates through Booking.com. See deals of up to 50% off! You can save a bunch of money if you book a bundle flight+room+rental car! They even have apartments, lodges, and houses you can rent, just like AirBnB or VRBO! By booking through this link, I receive a commission at no additional cost to you! PLEASE support our blog and bookmark this link!
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15 Things to do when you're bored or stuck at home!
It’s been 2 weeks of staying at home! Here are 15 things to do when you’re bored or stuck at home. Everything from cleaning to virtual tours, plenty of ideas to keep you entertained. Stay safe. Stay healthy. Stay home!
First off, I hope you and your loved ones are safe and well during this crazy time. I’ve heard the good, bad, and the ugly, I’m doing my part and staying home. That said, it’s been a full 2 weeks now since I’ve been at home, I need forms of entertainment and things to read and do!
I’m making the most of my time at home and after I’m done working for the day for my full-time job, I start new projects! Some are cleaning and organizing, others are blog related like making videos, new itinerary products and setting up posts for when the boom of travel comes back. It’s hard having a travel blog during this time.
Make Quarantine Cocoa
Here are 15 things that will keep you busy right now, which I divided into 3 categories:
5 Things to Clean and Organize
Clean out your closet. Shoes, sweaters, t-shirts, gym clothes are now in donation bags and my closet has never looked better. Let’s be real though, my main motivation is to get rid of things I don’t wear so I can go shopping online. 🤣
Go through your kitchen cabinets and cupboards. I got rid of some pint glasses, some vases that came with flowers delivered, jars that I had been holding onto and I now have so much more room!
Go through your cleaning supplies. Especially with the virus, I’ve been cleaning more than ever. I had some supplies in the kitchen and bathroom finding 6 bottles of certain products. I combined some that I could and made sure they were spread evenly under both sinks.
Clean off your patio or make a new space. Josh and I are both working in a one-bedroom apartment right now and space is limited at times. We cleaned off the patio, which also meant cleaning the barbeque, but now I have my own space where I am sitting in the sun typing to you.
Clean out your electronics and computer files. We have quite a few drives and some are so old we couldn’t remember what was on them. After that, going through old camera equipment and walkman, we decided we didn’t need some of these things anymore.
5 Catching-up type things to do:
Set FaceTime/Zoom/ Video Conference calls with friends and family! It’s been a lifesaver and something to look forward to! Download the Houseparty app and you can play games like Pictionary!
Make a new recipe! There are MILLIONS of recipes online, find something new to try. I’ve also started to organize my recipes. My Dad suggested using Recipe Keeper. Make quarantine cocoa, just try not to make a mess like I did.
Plan your next vacation! We have our annual Maui trip in October and I’m already checking out new things to do and restaurants to try! Make a bucket list Pinterest Board, it will give you something to look forward to.
Play a game! Cooped up with others? Make it fun and play a card game or board game.
Workout at home or go for a walk in your neighborhood! Just keep 6 feet away from others. I love the 7 Minute Workout app on my Apple Watch or any Fitness Blender workout on YouTube.
5 Things to Read and Watch
Netflix, Hulu, Disney+ - lots to watch! I hear Tiger King on Netflix is amazing. According to Vulture, here are The 40 Best Movies on Netflix You Probably Haven’t Seen. Try the Netflix party feature so you can watch with a friend.
Go on a Virtual Tour. Can’t go outside? Take a virtual tour to a far off place or an art exhibit, like somewhere in Paris. Check out this Lonely Planet article for great links! OR go on a Disney Ride!
WATCH MY NEW VIDEOS! Yup, putting in a selfish plug right here. I have had time to make videos from our travels so I started with Africa and I think I’ll move under the sea next! Check them out on our YouTube Channel
Learn a new language. Apps like Babbel or Duo lingo, or try the Learning Language with Netflix (LLN) tool. Yeah, I didn’t know that was a thing! Again, prepare for that next trip!
Read a book. I’m still working on Where the Crawdads Sing, but also try these great travel book suggestions from Lonely Planet or anything that Reese Witherspoon’s Book Club recommends.
If you want to spend time at home and get paid for it, then check online work-from-home vacancies on Jooble: https://jooble.org/jobs-online-work-from-home
^ Here’s one of the videos I’ve done in the past 2 weeks! :)
What have you been doing this time? Any suggestions for me?! Let me know in the comments below!
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