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

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

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

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

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

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

---

Download our Fun Ice Cream Holidays Calendar here

Fun Ice Cream and Sweet Related Holidays (Calendar Style)

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

January

• National Chocolate Covered Cherry Day - January 3rd

• National Whipped Cream Day - January 5th

• National Milk Day - Jan 11th

• National Strawberry Ice Cream Day - January 15th

• National Blonde Brownie Day - January 22nd

• National Pie Day - January 23rd

• National Peanut Butter Day - January 24th 

February

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

• National Dark Chocolate Day - February 1st

• National Carrot Cake Day - February 3rd

• National Chocolate Fondue Day - February 5th 

• World Nutella Day - February 5th 

• National Frozen Yogurt Day - February 6th

• Chocolate Mint Day - February 19th

March

• National Peanut Butter Lovers Day - March 1st

• National Oreo Cookie Day - Mar 6th

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

• National Pi Day - Pie day! March 14th

April

• National Chocolate Mousse Day - April 3rd

• National Caramel Popcorn Day - April 7th

• National Peach Cobbler Day - April 13th

• National Pineapple Upside Down Cake Day - April 20th

• National Jelly Bean Day - April 22nd

• National Cherry Cheesecake Day - April 23rd

May

• National Apple Pie Day - May 13th

• National Chocolate Chip Day - May 15th

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

• National Taffy Day - May 23rd

June

• National Donut Day - first Friday in June

• National Chocolate Ice Cream Day - June 7th

• National Fudge Day - June 16th

• First Day of Summer - June 20th

July

• July is National Ice Cream Month!

• National Strawberry Sundae Day - July 7th

• National Sugar Cookie Day - July 9th

• National Free Slurpee Day - July 11th

• Cow Appreciation Day - July 14th

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

• National Vanilla Ice Cream Day - July 23rd

• National Hot Fudge Sundae Day - July 25th

• National Coffee Milkshake Day - July 26th

• National Cheesecake Day - July 30th

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

August

• National Ice Cream Sandwich Day - August 2nd

• National Chocolate Chip Cookie Day - August 4th

• National Sponge Cake Day - August 23rd

• National Waffle Day - August 24th 

• National Banana Split Day - August 25th

September

• National Chocolate Milkshake Day - September 12th

• National Ice Cream Cone Day - September 22nd 

• National White Chocolate Day - September 22nd

• National Cherries Jubilee Day - September 24th 

• National Coffee/Starbucks Day - September 29th

October 

• International Coffee Day - October 1st 

• National Homemade Cookies Day - October 1st 

• National Cinnamon Roll Day - October 4th

• National Frappe Day - October 7th 

• National Cake Decorating Day - October 10th 

• National M&M Day - October 13th 

• National Dessert Day - October 14th

• World Food Day - October 16th 

• Sweetest Day - October 17th

• National Chocolate Cupcake Day - October 18th

• National Boston Cream Pie Day - October 23rd 

• National Chocolate Day - October 28th

• National Candy Corn Day - October 30th 

• Halloween/ National Caramel Apple Day - October 31st

November

• National Candy Day - November 4th

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

• National Vanilla Cupcake Day - November 10th 

• National Sundae Day - November 11th 

• National Cake Day - November 25th

• National French Toast Day - November 28th 

• National Lemon Cream Pie Day - November 29th 

December

• National Cookie Day - December 4th

• Gingerbread House Day - December 12th 

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

• National Cupcake Day - December 15th

• National Chocolate Covered Anything Day - December 16th 

• National Cookie Exchange Day - December 22nd 

• National Candy Cane Day - December 26th 

• National Chocolate Candy Day - December 28th

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

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

By Press, JoKa

---

Best Ice Cream Joke

Silly Ice Cream Jokes - Good for Kids!

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

• A: Sundae school!

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

• A: Because he was stuffed! 

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

• A: They have a soft serve.

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

• A: Ice Cream 

• Q: How did Reese eat her ice cream? 

• A: Witherspoon.

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

• A: Pi a'la mode.

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

• A: Because of the Rocky Road.

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

• “Sure Burt!”

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

• A: You scream

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

• A: Sundae!!

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

• A: In a woofle cone!

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

• A: It spent the day chill-axing!

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

• A: It went to a Rocky Road!
  
  

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

• A: It always got a scoop!

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

---

Ice Cream Puns

• You Got Soft Served.

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

• You are the sprinkles to my ice cream.

• We are mint for each other. 

• Ice cream makes everything better.

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

• Go Shawty, It’s Sherbert Day.

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

• Life’s better with a cherry on top.

• I’m A Big Softie.

• If you believe, anything is popsicle.

• Game Of Cones.

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

• Peace, love, and ice cream.

• In-Cone-Ceivable!

---

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Inspirational Ice Cream Quotes

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

---

Ice Cream Movie Quotes and Memorable Television Scenes

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

---

Famous Ice Cream Songs and Lyrics

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

---

If you liked this post please share it on your favorite social media site using the Share button below because we’d love to get the word out! Feel free to pin this to your favorite Pinterest board:

More ice cream related posts:

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

After’s Ice Cream - Venice

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

Updated: 7/20/25

When is National Ice Cream Day?

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

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

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

Throw an Ice Cream Social

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

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

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

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

Try our favorite Ice Cream Word Search!

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

---

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

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

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

7-Eleven - Free Slurpee

The Scoop: Free Slurpee in any 7-eleven shop

When: 7-11

Wanderlust Creamery

16 Handles - Free Soft-serve!

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

When: Sunday, July 20

Baskin-Robbins - $5 off

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

When: July 20–26

BJ's Restaurant and Brewhouse - Free Pizookie

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

Blue Ribbon - Giveaway

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

Breyers - BOGO

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

Bubbies Ice Cream - BOGO

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

When: July 2 through July 15

Burger King - Free Soft Serve

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

When: Sunday, July 20

Carvel - Free Topping and $5 reward

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

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

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

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

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

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

Extra Scoop: AMAZING Giveaways!

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

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

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

Creamistry - 10% off

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

Dairy Queen - Free Dilly Bar

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

When: July 14 - 20

Dippin Dots - Free Mini Cups

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

When: July 20

Dunkin’ Donuts - Discount and Double Points

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

When: July 20

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

eCreamery Ice Cream - $15 off

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

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

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

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

Friendly’s - Free Cone!

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

When: July 18-20

Ghirardelli Chocolate Company - Discounted Sundae

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

When: Friday, July 25

Gopuff - deals!

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

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

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

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

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

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

Graeter’s - Free Cones!

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

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

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

Halo Top: Got An Ice Cream-Inspired Name?

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

When: July 14 to July 21

Handel’s Homemade Ice Cream - Free Ice Cream

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

When: July 20

Humphrey Slocombe - Giveaway and Buy Two Pints Get One Free

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

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

When: July 1-7

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

When: Hurry, offer ends July 16th!

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

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

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

Summer Flavors:

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

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

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

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

When: July 20

Kilwins - Sweepstakes

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

When: From July 20-31

Klondike Bar - Digital Coupons

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

Marble Slab Creamery - Free Scoop!

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

When: July 20

McDonald's

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

When: thru 8/11

Milk Bar

The Scoop: new Lemon Meringue Pie Soft Serve available!

 My/Mochi - Great giveaways!

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

Petco - Free pup cups!

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

When: July 20

Popsicle - BOGO

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

When: All July long

Salt and Straw - Free Scoop!

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

When: July 14-20

Smitten Ice Cream

Smitten Ice Cream - Free Ice Cream

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

When: July 10 4-6pm

Steak 'N Shake - 1/2 Price

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

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

Talenti - BOGO

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

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

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

TCBY

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

Van Leeuwen Kraft Macaroni and cheese ice cream

Van Leeuwen - Discount Scoops and Giveaways

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

This is your summer flavor itinerary:

• Strawberry Yuzu Cheesecake

• Sweet Corn & Blueberry Jam

• Mango Sorbet

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

• City Point, Brooklyn (NY) - July 10

• Ponce City Market, Atlanta (GA)

• Hoboken (NJ)

• Northshore Mall (MA)

• Brooklyn Heights, Brooklyn (NY)

Wendy’s - Free Frosty

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

Whole Foods/Instacart

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

When: July 2-16

Yogurtland - Double Points

The Scoop: Earn double points in store or online!

When: July 20

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

When: Through July 13

Your Pie Pizza - FREE Scoop!

The Scoop: Free Gelato scoop today!

When: July 20

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

---

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

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

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

Bruster’s Christmas in July Celebration

Bruster’s Real Ice Cream - Rancho Cucamunga

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

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

The Scoop: Loyalty members get double points

When: National Ice Cream Weekend July 18-20th

Carmela Ice Cream Co

Capri Gelato and Coffee

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

Fosselman’s Ice Cream

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

Frozen Fruit Co

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

When: Available until this Friday

McConnell’s Fine Ice Creams

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

Use code SMS5 for $5 off your first order

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

• Santa Barbara - both State Street locations

• Downtown Los Angeles

• Studio City

• Third Street Promenade

• San Luis Obispo

• San Juan Capistrano

• Carlsbad

Rori's Artisanal Creamery - Extra Scoop!

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

When: Sunday, July 20

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

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

• Montecito: 12 - 7p.m.

• Santa Barbara: 12 - 7p.m.

• Santa Monica: 12 - 7p.m.

• Carpinteria: 11a.m. - 7p.m.

• Camarillo: 12 - 5p.m.

• Arroyo Grande: 12 - 7p.m.

• Ventura: 12 - 7p.m.

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

SWEET ROSE CREAMERY

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

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

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

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

Locations: Brentwood, Hollywood, Santa Monica, Venice

Wanderlust Creamery

Wanderlust Creamery - BOGO

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

When: Sunday, July 20

---

NATIONAL ICE CREAM DAY EVENTS

Sprinkle Pool - Museum of Ice Cream Los Angeles

MUSEUM OF ICE CREAM 

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

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

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

ICE CREAM ALLEY at Smorgasburg LA

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

Find a rotating crew of special popup vendors like:

• Jeni's Splendid Ice Creams

• Sweet Rose Creamery

• McConnell's Fine Ice Creams

• Blast Ice Cream

• Afters Ice Cream

• Madame Shugah (all vegan)

• And more!

Plus Smorgasburg LA regulars:

• Wanderlust Creamery

• Donut Friend (all vegan)

• Yellow Business - HK Egg Waffle

• Churro Boss

• Sweet n' Hollow

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

---

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

ICE CREAM DELIVERY ON NATIONAL ICE CREAM DAY

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

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

---

MAKE YOUR OWN ICE CREAM OR THROW AN ICE CREAM SOCIAL

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

Every good scoop from home deserves a good scooper!

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

---

Afters Ice Cream

Brief History of National Ice Cream Day

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

Now, let's EAT! 

---

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

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

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

---

MORE ICE CREAM POSTS? Yes PLEASE!!!

Hotel Review: InterContinental the Clement Monterey by IHG

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

---

See more Northern California posts:

Where to (and where not to) watch Fireworks on the 4th of July in Marina del Rey, California

Fireworks on the Fourth of July in Marina del Rey, CA

Crack the Code: Your Insider's Guide to Marina del Rey's 4th of July Fireworks!

Having spent over a decade living in Marina del Rey and celebrating every 4th of July there, I've got the inside scoop on how to make your Independence Day celebration a blast. From prime viewing spots to navigating the notorious traffic, here’s my best advice for a fun-filled Fourth in the Marina!

For more information, here is the city website http://marinadelrey.lacounty.gov

Keep in mind, they also shoot off fireworks on New Years Eve in the same spot. Typically a small show around 9p and the big show at midnight!

---

Ride a bike around the Marina!

Getting To and From Marina del Rey on the 4th

Be prepared for street closures! Typically, roads around Marina del Rey start shutting down to non-residents around noon. It's smart to check the Beaches and Harbors website beforehand for specific closure times and locations, depending on where you're headed.

Bring a bike or you can hop on a scooter (check out the apps Spin, Veo, or Wheels, to locate the closest scooter) or city bike to get from here to there!

See my Google Map for parking and viewing references.

---

Sunsets in Marina del Rey

Where to Park in Marina del Rey for Fireworks

Parking on the 4th of July in Marina del Rey is a competitive sport. If you don't snag a street spot by 10 AM, you're likely looking at paying for a lot, which usually runs $25-35 for the day. These paid lots also fill up quickly, often by noon. I've put together a Google Map with my best parking tips and viewing references to help you out.

Map of Marina Del Rey with Parking and Viewing Locations for the Fireworks on the 4th of July

Considering a shared ride? They're great, but hold off on ordering your Uber or Lyft until around 10:30 PM, once the post-fireworks traffic starts to die down. Otherwise, you could be waiting an hour or more. My pro tip: bring some cookies and a deck of cards (we love Monopoly Deal!) and enjoy a relaxed dessert while you wait.

---

Find your spot for the fourth of July befor the sunsets!

Where to Watch Marina del Rey Fireworks on the 4th of July

On 4th of July, Marina del Rey sets off quite a show! The 20 minute spectacular can be anywhere in Marina del Rey, Venice Pier, Playa Vista, and Dockweiler Beach.

The fireworks barge has moved in recent years from its former spot near Whiskey Red's to further down the jetty, closer to the ocean. If you have a chance earlier in the day to check out where it is, that’s your best bet to know where to watch the fireworks. This change significantly impacts visibility, making it challenging to see the show from the west side of the Marina. For the best views, you'll want to be on the east side, facing southwest.

Here are some top viewing spots:

• Burton Chace Park (13650 Mindanao Way, Marina Del Rey, CA 90292): This is a fantastic spot on the east side of the Marina. Expect a vibrant atmosphere with a DJ playing music, food trucks, and a festive crowd. We've brought a blanket, a picnic, and deck of cards and simply found a cozy spot on the grass.

• Charlie Beach: If you're looking for a beachside view, this is a great option, especially if you can get a spot along the jetty fence. It's perfect if you plan on spending the day partying on the beach and then just walking closer for the show.

• Whiskey Red's (13813 Fiji Way, Marina Del Rey, CA 90292): This remains a perfect spot for viewing from the west side, thanks to its direct line of sight. Be sure to make reservations well in advance, as it gets incredibly crowded.

• From a Boat: If you're lucky enough to have access to a boat, it's an awesome experience! Just be aware that the Marina gets packed with boats, which can be a bit stressful for the captain.

• You can enjoy synchronized music to the fireworks from the following locations:

  BURTON CHACE PARK - 13650 Mindanao Way

  FISHERMAN'S VILLAGE - 13755 Fiji Way

Where NOT to Watch the Fireworks in Marina del Rey

Avoid the west side of the Marina facing east. Areas like Bora Bora Way, Tahiti Way, Marquesas Way, and Panay Way will have obstructed views, if any at all. You might catch a glimpse of a few flares, but you'll miss the main show.

Fireworks view at the end of Bora Bora Way

---

Fun Things to do in Marina del Rey

If you decide to arrive early to beat the traffic, there's plenty to keep you entertained throughout the day:

• Hang out at the beach

• Take the Water Bus around the Marina. A one way ticket is only $1 https://marinawaterbus.com

• Book a tour on a yacht https://www.viator.com/tours/Santa-Monica/Marina-Del-Rey-Rentals/d32539-378698P6

• Walk or bike to Santa Monica Pier

• Bike the scenic paths around the Marina

• Kayak or Paddleboard - rentals be found at Mother’s Beach

• Enjoy the local restaurants. Our favorites include Uovo, Killer Shrimp, 26 Beach, and even The Cheesecake Factory (great views and drinks!).

• Grab some ice cream! Try Capri Gelato and Coffee Bar or Ginger’s Divine Ice Cream

• Spot some sea lions – they're always "lion" around (ha!).

• Keep an eye out for all the fun characters dressed head-to-toe in red, white, and blue!

After the fireworks spectacular, all the boats in the Marina honk their horns for a few minutes in a noisy "round of applause." Surprisingly, our babies slept through it every year!

Related Article: Best Ice Cream in Los Angeles https://www.thesweetestescapes.com/blog/best-ice-cream-los-angeles-2020

If you're planning to enjoy the dazzling fireworks display over the Marina del Rey harbor and want to avoid the post-show traffic and crowds, consider extending your visit with a stay at one of the area's excellent hotels. You can find great rates and a variety of options on booking.com, including:

1. The Ritz-Carlton, Marina del Rey

2. Marina del Rey Marriott

3. Marina del Rey Hotel

4. Jamaica Bay Inn

5. Hotel MdR Marina del Rey - a DoubleTree by Hilton

6. Hilton Garden Inn Los Angeles Marina Del Rey

Staying local means you can simply walk back to your room after the last rocket bursts, ensuring a relaxing end to your festive evening.

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!

Do you have any favorite 4th of July traditions in Marina del Rey? Share them in the comments below!

Boat horns blasting after the fireworks on the Fourth of July in Marina del Rey.

---

Hope you have a happy and safe 4th!

More things to do in LA:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

---

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

heavenly Gondolas from the Heavenly Village Center

Heavenly Gondolas

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

Heavenly Village Giant Chair made of Skiis

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

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

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

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

Thomas F. Regan Memorial City Beach Park

Parks and Recreation

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

Thomas F. Regan Memorial City Beach Park

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

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

Kahle Park

Location: 236 Kingsbury Grade Rd, Stateline, NV 89449

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

Glen Alpine Falls at Fallen Leaf Lake

See a Waterfall (without much of a hike!)

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

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

Shop our Amazon list for our favorite things to pack!

Kiva Beach Picnic

Go for a Picnic!

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

There are so many places to picnic around the lake:

• Kiva Beach

• Emerald Bay State Beach

• Kings Beach

• Zephyr Cove Park

• Pope Beach

Best things to do in North Lake Tahoe

Impossible trail - Tahoe East Shore Trail

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

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

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

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

Truckee

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

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

Where to Stay with Toddlers in South Lake Tahoe

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

Caesars Republic

Location: 18 Hwy 50, Stateline, NV 89449

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Holiday Inn Express Exterior

Budget friendly option - Holiday Inn Express Lake Tahoe

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

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

---

Where to Dine with Toddlers in Lake Tahoe

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

Riva Grill views

Riva Grill on the Lake

900 Ski Run Blvd, South Lake Tahoe, CA 96150

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

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

Edgewood’s Brook’s Bar and Deck

180 Lake Pkwy, Stateline, NV 89449

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

California Burger Co.

California Burger Co.

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

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

---

Itinerary for 4 days in Lake Tahoe during Spring or Summer

Day 1

5p - Arrive in Reno

5:30p - Pick up rental car

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

7:30p - Check into hotel

8p - Bedtime

Day 2

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

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

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

10a - head to the park on the lake

12p - lunch at Riva Grill

1:30p - naptime

3p - drive over to Kahle Park

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

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

7:15p - bedtime

Day 3

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

7a - Free breakfast at the hotel restaurant

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

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

10:40a - Arrive and explore

11:45a - drive to Kiva picnic area

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

12:40p - drive back to hotel

1:15p - naptime

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

5:45p - dinner

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

7:30p - bedtime

Day 4

6:20a Wake-up call from toddler

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

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

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

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

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

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

5p - Drive back towards the south shore

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

---

What to pack for Toddlers?!

Shop our Amazon list for our favorite things to pack!

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

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

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

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

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

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

• 2 car seats - infant and toddler

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

• diaper bag

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

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

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

See our full list on Amazon.com!

---

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

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

---

If you liked this post please share it on your favorite social media site using the Share button below because we’d love to get the word out! Feel free to pin this to your favorite Pinterest board:

Things to do in Summer in Lake Tahoe with a Toddler

---

Read more about Lake Tahoe in these posts:

Packing Checklist and Must Haves for Traveling with a Baby 2025

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

• Diaper rash cream

• Saline spray

• Baby lotion

• Baby Sunscreen

Some I have in travel size, others I fill a 3 oz travel bottle. Hotels might have a baby proofing amenity on request, but if you have a crawler or walker, I recommend bringing a handful of outlet covers.

Also, request a fridge ahead of time or when checking-in to your hotel.

In my diaper bag, I always have multipurpose wipes in a Ziploc bag, good to wipe down plane seat areas, table or high chairs at restaurant, toys, etc. I pack an extra baggie of them on trips.

Shop our Amazon list for all these things in one place!

---

Beach and Pool Travel Gear

If you’re heading to a beach destination, I recommend a few things:

• Shade tent - having fun in the sun is great but shade is even better! We liked the COMMOUDS Large Pop Up Beach Tent with UPF 50+ beach sun shade including a carry bag! It’s lightweight is great for 3 people with some room for baby to run around. It is a pop up tent with screen windows (that can also close up) which compacts into a small bag weighing only 2 pounds. There are stakes and bags for sand bags to anchor the tent.

• Beach blanket - this is great to have just in general. We like the HIHOHO Beach Blanket Sandproof, Lager 82" X79" and use it at the park or any lawn, really. It has pockets in the corner to fill with sand or rocks or even heavier toys and stakes to anchor. It’s machine washable too!

Related post: See all things need for baby from birth to 12 months in this Baby Must Haves List

---

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

If you liked this post please share it on your favorite social media site using the Share button below because we’d love to get the word out! Feel free to pin this to your favorite Pinterest board:

---

More travel inspiration:

5 Best Snorkel Spots (and swim with turtles) in Maui, Hawaii - Video included!

Hawaiian Sea Turtle swimming

5 Best Places to Snorkel in Maui, HI

My friends from Outside Pursuits help me put this article together, check out their site with great travel advice for the outdoors! The warm, crystal-clear ocean surrounding Maui provides perfect conditions for snorkeling all year round. If you enjoy slipping under the waves, Maui is an ideal destination for a snorkeling tour. The only decision you must make is which snorkel spots to visit.

Make sure you check the Maui snorkel report for water clarity: MAUI SNORKEL REPORT

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

Our favorite snorkel gear:

Cressi Scuba Mask

Cressi Scuba Mask - Great with antifog and comes in various colors. Pro-tip, bring baby shampoo to clean the inside lens if it fogs up!

CAPAS Travel Snorkel Fins

CAPAS Snorkel Fins, Swim Fins Travel Size Short Adjustable for Snorkeling Diving Adult Men Women Kids Open Heel Swimming Flippers - travel size and fit in your suitcase! We usually just put our snorkel gear in this snorkel travel bag and take it as a carry-on. It’s also great for carrying around your gear or sand toys.

Don’t forget to check out our video at the bottom of the post to see these reefs in action!

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

These are my 5 favorites!:

Black Rock on Kaanapali Beach

#1. Black Rock

Black Rock is a rocky outcrop to the north of Kaanapali Beach on the west coast. Like all the rock on Maui, Black Rock was formed by a lava flow. It is a popular place for cliff diving and sunset torch lighting. If you get there early, you can find free parking on the ground level at the Sheraton Maui Resort.

The locals call the outcrop Pu’u Keka’a. Hawaiian tradition holds this is where souls come to join their ancestors. If they cannot find their way, lost souls attach themselves to rocks. It is considered bad luck to take away rock from the beach.

The water near the beach is around 8 feet deep but deepens to around 25 feet around the point. The seabed is mostly sand, but you can follow an underwater basalt ledge. Where overhangs occur along the ledge, watch out for turtles. We have the best luck in the morning on the shelf opposite side of where you would jump in the water off the top of Black Rock.

The fish you can expect to see here include boxfish, butterflyfish, cardinalfish, chub, cornetfish, damselfish, goatfish, hawkfish, humuhumumukunukuapua’a (reef triggerfish), jacks, mackerel, Moorish idol, needlefish, parrotfish, perch, porcupine fish, snapper, surgeonfish, tang, triggerfish, and wrasse. You can also expect to see crustaceans, invertebrates, and, of course, turtles.

VIDEO: Scroll down to our video to see the octopus and other sea creatures we found at Black Rock!

---

Kapalua Bay at Sunset

#2. Kapalua Bay

A little north of Black Rock on the western coast you’ll find Kapalua Bay, a sheltered sandy beach. The two reefs that extend out from both ends of the bay form a C-shaped cove. The calm water and reefs make this a perfect destination for novice snorkelers. This is the best place in Maui to teach your kids how to snorkel.

Note that the water in the center of the bay can be a little cloudy from the soft sand. But if you set off from the north end of the beach and swim along the ledge, the visibility is better. The depth there is 10 feet.

Expect to see boxfish, butterfly fish, chub, cornet fish, damselfish, goatfish, hawk fish, humuhumumukunukuapua’a, jacks, Moorish idol, parrot fish, perch, porcupine fish, scorpion fish, surgeonfish, tang, triggerfish, and wrasse. You’ll also find invertebrates and crustaceans.

You’ll find parking for the beach near the public restrooms and showers. However, it’s a popular beach, so get there early.

See our favorite Maui Restaurants close by

---

Honolua Bay

#3. Honolua Bay

This is a more challenging snorkeling spot a little further north than Kapalua Bay on the north coast of West Maui. The best snorkeling locations are a half-mile swim from shore. Also, you must take a 700-feet or 1,500-feet hike to reach the ocean. Locals recommend you study the layout of the bay from the cliffs above before snorkeling.

If there has been a lot of rain in the past few days, don’t come. A stream flows into the bay, and silt can cloud the bay when its output increases. However, Honolua Bay can be calmer than other bays around Maui, making it a good place to come when the conditions are bad for snorkeling elsewhere. But check the swell forecast. If the surf is up, you’ll find the beach crowded with surfers. 

You can either enter the water from the sandy part of the beach to the left or over the boulders to the right. Head for the boulders to the right and pass the boat ramp before entering the water. The water is clearer there because the stream enters the bay to the left near the sand. Also, the coral and abundant marine life is focused toward the north end of the bay. You’ll need shoes to reach the water, and please be careful on the slippery rocks.

Honolua Bay is a Marine Life Conservation District and boasts vibrant and interesting corals that are fun to explore. Expect to see big eyes, boxfish, butterflyfish, cardinalfish, chub, damselfish, flag tails, goatfish, hawkfish, humuhumumukunukuapua’a, jacks, Moorish idol, mullet, parrotfish, peacock bass, snapper, soldierfish, squirrelfish, surgeonfish, tang, triggerfish, and wrasse. You might also encounter eels, turtles, and barracudas.

Scroll down for video footage of what we found under the sea at Honolua Bay!

So many fish

---

Hawaiian Sea Turtle swimming

#4. Turtle Town - Wailea area

Turtle Town is found near Makena on the southern shore of Maui, specifically near Maluaka Beach. You don’t need to be a genius to figure out that this is the best place in Maui to see Hawaiian green sea turtles. Maluaka Beach is also a popular destination for families with kids. The soft sand is great for relaxing and volleyball. And Makena is a popular destination for whale watching tours over the winter months.

When you come to Maluaka Beach, walk south until you reach the rocks. The coral reef stretches out from there, and that’s where you’ll find the vast majority of the turtles. Also watch out for angelfish, butterflyfish, triggerfish, and trumpetfish. You may also see octopuses and moray eels. Maluaka Beach is adjacent to the Makena Beach and Golf Resort. Note that there is no sign for Maluaka Beach. This keeps down the number of visitors. 

Bonus: Visit the Turtles on land in Wailea where you don’t even have to get wet! Great to bring kids and toddlers!

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

See more: Fun things to do in Wailea

---

Molokini Crater

#5. Molokini Crater

Molokini Island is located 3 miles southwest of Maui. It is the best snorkeling destination in Hawaii. The water inside the crater is a Marine Life Conservation District and the surrounding rim is a State Bird Sanctuary. If you love nature, this is the best snorkeling spot to visit.

One of Molokini’s biggest advantages over other snorkeling spots is that it suffers no silt from stream wash, so here you’ll find the clearest water in Maui. Underwater visibility can exceed 200 feet. Another feature of Molokini is that the crater rim protects the interior from ocean swells, meaning that it’s a safe place for snorkelers of all ages and abilities.

Expect to see big eye scad, butterflyfish, chub, cornetfish, damselfish, emperor fish, goatfish, hawkfish, humuhumumukunukuapua’a, jacks, Moorish idol, needlefish, perch parrotfish, snapper, soldierfish, squirrelfish, surgeonfish, tang, triggerfish, and wrasse. You might also encounter eels and reef sharks.

To get there, it’s about a 30-minute boat ride. We booked and boarded the Malolo. You can always rent a boat from our friends at GetMyBoat, it’s like Airbnb for boats!

Wanna take it up a notch, get certified and try scuba diving, here are our favorite spots: Maui Scuba Dive Locations

Watch our video of our snorkel trips!

---

We ALWAYS find THE BEST rates through Booking.com. See deals of up to 50% off! You can save a bunch of money if you book a bundle flight+room+rental car! They even have apartments, lodges, and houses you can rent, just like AirBnB or VRBO! By booking through this link, I receive a commission at no additional cost to you! PLEASE support our blog and bookmark this link!

You could also save money by using points or rewards with a travel credit card! Check out this helpful article from Money Magazine to see which card would be best for your needs.

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:

---

See all MAUI POSTS or our most recent:

8 Delicious Mai Tai's you must try in Maui, Hawaii!

Where to find the Best Mai Tai in Maui, Hawaii

Mai Tais are by far the most popular drink in Maui and most islands of Hawaii at that. Victor Jules Bergeron, famously known as Trader Vic, claimed to have invented the Mai Tai in 1944 at his popular restaurant, Trader Vic's, in Oakland, California. Recipes for Mai Tais today are based on Trader Vic's 1944 recipe include rum, lime juice, orgeat syrup, and orange liqueur or orange curaçao. Other ingredients may include almond, grenadine, orange and grapefruit juices, beer, etc. To make a perfect Mai Tai, you have to find solid ingredients and a great ratio of tropical flair to rum! 

We’ve been to Maui at least 8 times, so let's just say, we've had our fair share of Mai Tais. Some are basic, which don't stray far from the recipe, while other drinks have beautiful presentations and something different added to their Mai Tai to make it stand out from others. Let’s dive in!

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

Related Post: Best Restaurants in Maui

---

Merriman’s Mai Tai

Merriman's Maui in Kapalua 

Some of the best sunsets sinking into the Pacific have occurred while sitting on Merriman's patio! They are known for their signature recipe incorporating local rum and topped with exquisite sweet honey-liliko'i foam. 

Merriman's Mai Tai - Old Lahaina Rum, Triple Sec, Fresh Squeezed Lime Juice, honey-lilikoi foam

 Presentation: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Taste: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Price: $$

---

Monkeypod Mai Tai

Monkeypod in Kaanapali or Wailea 

Monkeypod is a sister restaurant to Merriman's also serving a similar recipe meaning you enjoy this cocktail in multiple locations!

Monkeypod Mai Tai - kula organic silver and dark rums, lime, house-made macadamia nut orgeat, bols orange curacao, honey-lilikoi foam

 Presentation: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Taste: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Price: $$

---

Having trouble packing for Hawaii? Don’t forget the most important thing!

Check out our Hawaii Packing Essentials complete with a checklist!

---

Mai'a Tai at Lineage

Lineage in Wailea

You might recognize Chef Sheldon as a finalist on the show Top Chef, and after trying his food and drinks you can see why he made to the finals! The Mai'a Tai is different from most Mai Tais but has a delicious spin to the tiki classic. 

Mai'a Tai - Banks 5 Rum, Banana Milk Punch, Walnut, Pecan, Giffard Apricot de Rousillon, Lime, Almond~Spice Liqueur

Presentation: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Taste: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Price: $$

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

---

The Grand at Humuhumunukunukuapua'a

Humuhumunukunukuapua'a at the Grand Wailea 

Yes, that is the name of a restaurant which is also a word for the Hawaiian Triggerfish or the little triggerfish with a snout like a pig (we learned this from their kids menu)! Their recipe for The Grand has a lighter taste without the dark rum and topped off with a wonderfully sweet pineapple vanilla foam. 

The Grand - Ron Zacapa 23yr Rum, Orange Curacao, Orgeat, Lime Juice, Pineapple Vanilla foam

Presentation: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Taste: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Price: $$$

---

The Stirred Mai Tai at SPago

Wolfgang Puck’s Spago at the Four Seasons Wailea

The mixologists at Spago have come up with some really inventive, and delicious, takes on the Mai Tai, giving that floating in the ocean without a care in the world feeling! The Stirred - Plantation Xaymaca Rum, Duquesne Aged Rhum Agricole, Plantation Pineapple Rum, Dry Curacao, Citrus Oils

The 1944 - Plantation Xaymaca Run, Duquesne Aged Rhum Agricole, Dry Curacao, Lime

The Spago Maui - Plantation Pineapple Rum, Koloa Dark Rum, 151 Proof Rum, Apricot Brandy, Almond, Lime, Pineapple

The Stirred - Plantation Xaymaca Rum, Duquesne Aged Rhum Agricole, Plantation Pineapple Rum, Dry Curacao, Citrus Oils

Presentation: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Taste: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Price: $$$

---

Fresh Squeezed Mai Tai at the Barefoot Bar

Hula Grill and Barefoot Bar in Kaanapali

I think the tiki glass presentation really makes a difference here! ;-) This Mai Tai is on the fruitier side with a great combo of juices integrated.

Fresh Squeezed Mai Tai - Tropical blend of fresh pineapple, guava, orange, and passion fruit Juices with orgeat, orange curaçao, gold rum and a dark rum float

Presentation: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Taste: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Price: $$

---

Maui Brew Co in Lahaina 

Maui Brew Co not only serves a good Mai Tai but they have made a unique beer cocktail called the Mana Mai Tai made with you guessed it, BEER! This will throw your taste buds in delightful loops, forgetting you have a beer in your hand.

Mana Mai Tai - Pineapple Mana Wheat, orgeat, Pineapple, Coconut Hiwa Porter float

Presentation: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Taste: ⭐️⭐️⭐️

Price: $$

---

Black Rock Mai Tai at the Cliff Dive Grill

Sheraton Maui Mai Tai at the Cliff Dive Grill

We often stay at the Maui Sheraton and the Cliff Dive Bar is usually our first stop for a Mai Tai! Not only is it refreshing but we love the beach views and watching jumpers dive off of black rock!

Black Rock Mai Tai - light & dark rum, pineapple & orange juice, orange orgeat

Presentation: ⭐️⭐️⭐️

Taste: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Price: $$

---

I’d like to thank my family for their help with my extensive research for this article! 😃

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:

---

See all Hawaii posts HERE and check out our latest and greatest:

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

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

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

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

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

---

Where to Stay in Oahu

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Hilton Hawaiian Village Entrance with traditional dancer statues

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

---

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

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

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

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

I bumped into my friends Chip and Dale at Aulani!

Day trip in Honolulu: Visit Disney’s Aulani

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

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

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

Why the Hula-Hoopla about Aulani?

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

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

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

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

Public Beach right next to Disney Aulani in Hawaii

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

---

Lappert’s has the best flavors in Hawaii!

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

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

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

Why the Hula-Baloo about Lappert's?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

---

Food and Restaurants on Oahu

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

See our full review: Monkeypod Kitchen

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Food trucks!

Monkeypod Honolulu

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

---

Top of Diamond Head views

View of Diamond head from our room

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

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

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

A Little History to Get You Geologically Pumped:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Views from the top of Diamond Head

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

THis navigational Lighthouse was built in 1917

---

Visit Pearl Harbor

The USS Bowfin Submarine was one of my faves!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

4. The USS Oklahoma Memorial: Honoring the Forgotten Ship

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

5. The Pearl Harbor Visitor Center: Setting the Stage

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

Pearl Harbor famous statue

A Few Extra Tips for Your Visit:

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

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

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

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

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

---

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

Honolulu Zoo and Aquarium

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

---

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

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

---

If you liked this post please share it on your favorite social media site using the Share button below because we’d love to get the word out! Feel free to pin this to your favorite Pinterest board:

---

More Hawaii? Here you go!

Paradise Found: The Best Hotels in Maui, Hawaii (with map)

Kaanapali Beach Views

Paradise Found: The Best Hotels in Maui, Hawaii

Happy 2025, have you booked your Hawaiian vacation yet? You bet we did!

Maui, the "Valley Isle," is a captivating destination that effortlessly blends natural beauty with vibrant culture. From the dramatic peaks of Haleakala volcano to the pristine beaches of Ka'anapali, Maui offers a diverse landscape of breathtaking scenery. Explore lush rainforests, witness the mesmerizing Road to Hana, and indulge in delicious Hawaiian cuisine. With its warm hospitality, vibrant arts scene, and endless opportunities for adventure, Maui is a truly unforgettable vacation spot.

Choosing where to stay can be overwhelming, so we've compiled a list of our top 6 hotels in Maui to help you find your perfect slice of paradise.

Here is a map made with the Wanderlog Travel Planner, so you can follow along, add to your Google maps account, or create your own personal map! Wanderlog allows you to create great maps and guides for any vacation! Check out the Kaanapali Beach hotels and how they compare to others. We’ve been to most, here are our top 6 places to stay in Maui!

Map courtesy of Wanderlog, the best trip planner app on iOS and Android

See the best hotels to stay at in Maui with a map of all Ka’aanapali Beach hotels.

See our full Guide to Kaanapali Beach including where to stay, things to do and best restaurants!

Find the best rate to visit these hotels by booking your room through Booking.com Not only will you find the best rate out there but by clicking this link and booking a night, I receive a commission at no additional cost to you! PLEASE support our blog and bookmark this link! :-) Thanks! 

If you’re still deciding where to stay, our Ultimate Maui Travel Guide breaks down the best areas and resorts across the island.

---

Charming Gardens with Ocean views at the Hyatt Regency

1. The Maui Hyatt Regency:

• Where to Stay: This iconic resort boasts a prime location on Ka'anapali Beach with breathtaking ocean views.

• Why it's Great:

  • Stunning Pools: Multiple pools, including a lazy river and a waterslide, offer endless fun for all ages.

  • Delicious Dining: From casual beachfront cafes to elegant fine dining, the Hyatt offers a variety of culinary experiences.

  • Live Entertainment: Enjoy nightly luaus and live music performances for a taste of authentic Hawaiian culture.

  • Pampering Spa: Relax and rejuvenate at the award-winning Napili Point Spa.

  • Shave Ice Heaven: Indulge in a refreshing shave ice treat at Ululani's Hawaiian Shave Ice, located just steps from the resort.

  • Animal Menagerie: Find parrots that say “Aloha”, swans, flamingoes, and penguins. Yes, I said penguins.

Budget hotel option: You can use Hyatt points here but free night rewards don’t typically work. I always check!

---

Sheraton Maui Resort with Black Rock!

2. Sheraton Maui Resort & Spa:

• Where to Stay: Nestled on the shores of Black Rock, this resort offers stunning ocean views along the Maui coast and easy access to snorkeling and diving.

• Why it's Great:

  • Legendary Cliffs of Kapalua: Witness the iconic cliff divers leaping into the ocean during the nightly cliff diving ceremony.

  • World-Class Golf: Play a round of golf at the renowned Kapalua Golf Courses.

  • Spacious Accommodations: Choose from a variety of rooms and suites, many with private lanais and ocean views.

  • Multiple Pools: Enjoy several pools, including a lagoon pool and a children's pool.

  • Delicious Dining: Savor fresh seafood and local flavors at the resort's diverse dining options.

See our full review here: SHERATON MAUI RESORT HOTEL REVIEW

---

View from Room in Westin Maui Resort and Spa

3. The Westin Maui Resort & Spa:

• Where to Stay: Located on Ka'anapali Beach, this luxurious resort offers a relaxing and rejuvenating experience.

• Why it's Great:

  • Heavenly Beds: Experience the signature Westin Heavenly Bed for ultimate comfort.

  • Award-Winning Spa: Indulge in a rejuvenating treatment at the Heavenly Spa.

  • Breathtaking Views: Enjoy panoramic ocean views from your private lanai or while lounging by the pool.

  • Exciting Activities: Participate in a variety of water sports, including snorkeling, kayaking, and stand-up paddleboarding.

  • Family Fun: The resort offers a variety of activities for children, including a kids' club and a playground.

Budget Travel Tip: Book with Marriott points! Get the credit card and save those points!

---

Grand Wailea Room views at Sunset

4. The Grand Wailea, a Waldorf Astoria Hotel:

• Where to Stay: This iconic resort boasts an unparalleled level of luxury and sophistication on Wailea Beach.

• Why it's Great:

  • Epic Pools: Explore the resort's nine interconnected pools, including a lazy river, waterfalls, and water slides. There’s even an elevator in the pool!

  • World-Class Dining: Indulge in a culinary journey with award-winning dining experiences.

  • Luxury Spa: Experience ultimate relaxation at the award-winning Spa Grande.

  • Impeccable Service: Enjoy personalized service from the dedicated staff.

  • Ice Cream Bliss: Cool down with a delicious scoop of ice cream from the resort's own ice cream parlor.

Luxury travel resort, if you want to be fancy.

See our full blog post review here: GRAND WAILEA HOTEL REVIEW

---

Pool views at the Andaz Maui

5. Andaz Maui at Wailea Resort:

• Where to Stay: This stylish and contemporary resort offers a unique blend of modern luxury and Hawaiian charm.

• Why it's Great:

  • Stunning Oceanfront Location: Enjoy breathtaking ocean views and easy access to Wailea Beach.

  • Stylish Design: Experience contemporary design with a touch of Hawaiian flair.

  • Exceptional Dining: Savor innovative cuisine at the resort's acclaimed restaurants.

  • Relaxing Atmosphere: Unwind by the infinity pool or on the private beach.

  • Unique Experiences: Participate in cultural activities such as lei making and ukulele lessons.

There’s a good snorkel spot close by! See the Best Snorkel Beaches in Maui

---

Honua Kai Resort

6. Honua Kai Resort & Spa (Airbnb-Style):

• Where to Stay: This luxurious resort offers spacious condominium-style accommodations with fully equipped kitchens and stunning ocean views. Great if you want to work from the hotel or if you have kids and need more space than a hotel.

• Why it's Great:

  • Home Away From Home: Enjoy the comforts of home with spacious living areas and private lanais.

  • Access to Resort Amenities: Guests have access to resort amenities such as pools, spas, and restaurants.

  • Prime Location: Located on the pristine beaches of North Ka'anapali, offering easy access to nearby attractions.

  • Self-Catering Options: Enjoy the flexibility of cooking your own meals in your fully equipped kitchen.

  • Relaxing Atmosphere: Enjoy a more laid-back and independent vacation experience.

My favorite so that you can sprawl out! There isn’t maid service but there is a Duke’s Beach House Maui that also has waiters stop by the pool lounge chairs! Mai tai, please!

See how to budget your next trip: Maui Budget, Itinerary, and Checklist

---

Choosing the best hotel in Maui depends on your individual preferences and budget. Whether you're seeking luxury, adventure, or relaxation, you're sure to find the perfect paradise on this magical island.

---

Looking for more about Maui?! We have all you need:

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

THE BEST ACTIVITIES AND THINGS TO DO IN MAUI

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

1. Black Sand Beach (60 mins)

2. Lava Tubes (30 mins)

3. Red Sand Beach (30 mins)

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

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

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

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

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

Think Sport Sunscreen

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

Hello Sunshine Sun Hat

On AMAZON.com

---

2. Go Snorkeling

The best part about the end of the Kaanapali beach is the Black Rock, which is located right in front of the Sheraton Maui Resort. Where it might seem like a hideous black lava rock, under the sea you can find gorgeous coral, tons of fish, and usually see a Hawaiian sea turtle or two!

Another great spot is Kapalua Bay. Even though the clarity isn't as great as around Black Rock, there are still plenty of fish to see. On one of our swims, we saw 6 turtles! We parked in a free beach parking lot next to Merriman's Kapalua, but make sure you get there early for a spot.

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

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

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

Snorkeling with green Hawaiian Sea turtles in Kapalua Bay

---

3. Nakalele Blowhole

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

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

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

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

---

4. Catch the Sunrise at the Top of Haleakala Crater

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

---

5. Go Scuba Diving

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

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

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

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

Please protect the reefs and get reef-safe sunscreen:

---

6. Get a Massage

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

Check out our Hotel Review: Sheraton Maui Resort and Spa

We ALWAYS find THE BEST rates through Booking.com. See deals of up to 50% off! You can save a bunch of money if you book a bundle flight+room+rental car! They even have apartments, lodges, and houses you can rent, just like AirBnB or VRBO! By booking through this link, I receive a commission at no additional cost to you! PLEASE support our blog and bookmark this link!

---

7. Go shopping and have some great food!

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

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

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

Whalers Village - Kaanapali - Maui, Hawaii

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

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

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

---

8. Get Some Hawaiian Shave Ice

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

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

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

HAWAIIAN SHAVE ICE MAUI HAWAII

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

---

9. Go Zip-lining

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

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

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

On AMAZON.com

---

10. Enjoy a Lu'au

DRUMS OF THE PACIFIC LU'AU HYATT

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

How about a festive outfit for the evening:

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

---

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:

---

Need more Hawaii? Here are our latest and greatest:

Maui Babymoon Guide (2026): Best Pregnancy-Safe Things to Do, Tips & 5-Day Itinerary

Updated January 3, 2026

Go on a coastal walk along Kapalua

Babymoon Tips and 10 Things to do in Maui while Pregnant - 5-Day Itinerary Included!

Planning a Maui babymoon and wondering what’s actually safe to do while pregnant? Maui is one of the best babymoon destinations thanks to its relaxing beaches, luxury resorts, gentle activities, and easy island pace. Whether you’re traveling during your second trimester or simply looking for a low-stress getaway before baby arrives, this Maui Babymoon Guide (2026) covers the best things to do while pregnant, where to stay, what to avoid, and a perfectly paced 5-day itinerary designed for rest, comfort, and unforgettable island moments.

We had a trip on the books to Maui, and found out we were pregnant a few weeks prior to take-off! We decided to keep our reservations (which were for a month-long trip) and baby-mooned far in advance!

Being pregnant limited our list of things to do (no zip-lining, scuba diving, or parasailing on this trip), but we still made the most of it! Here’s my best advice for you expecting mothers who need a tropical getaway!

Don’t miss: Must haves for baby - small spaces, budget and travel

Jump to:

• Pregnancy-Safe Things to Do on a Maui Babymoon
• Best Food on Maui for a Babymoon
• Where to Stay for Maui Babymoon
• What to Pack for a Maui Babymoon While Pregnant
• Pregnancy Travel Tips
• What NOT to Do While Pregnant in Maui
• 5-Day Maui Babymoon Itinerary
• Is It Safe to Travel to Maui While Pregnant? (FAQs)

---

10 Pregnancy-Safe Things to Do on a Maui Babymoon

Shopping for Baby in Maui

Saslax Lace Off Shoulder Doubly Split A-line Skirt Maternity Dress Soft Stretchy Pregnancy Prop Maxi Gown for Photoshoot Champagne Medium

ZESICA Women's 2025 Boho Sexy Off Shoulder Long Sleeve Smocked High Waist Side Split Flowy A Line Tiered Long Maxi Dress,Coffee,Medium

Sunrise at Haleakala

There is more than you think of things you can do in Maui while pregnant, though you might not want to do all of it! Don’t stress or overwhelm yourself, here is our list of best pregnancy safe things to do in Maui:

1. RELAX BY THE BEACH OR POOL

   We spent a lot of time on the beach! We stayed at Honua Kai and had Tommy Bahama chairs in our room that we loaded with sparkling waters and snacks to spend hours at the beach. Naps definitely happened. The pool is nice too, I do love that resort life! We went in February and I loved watching the whales breach the surface!

2. GO ON COASTAL WALKS

   Whether you’re in Wailea, Kaanapali, or Kapalua, there is a paved beach walk to enjoy! Good for any trimester. You can always walk in the sand but I found it was harder while sharing my oxygen supply!

3. GET A MOCKTAIL

   I love Mai Tais and Lava Flows, so getting my favorite cocktail concoctions in a non-alcoholic, virgin form lifted my spirits!

4. GO ON A (EASY) HIKE

   Depending on what trimester you are in, this one might not be as easy! We went on a few hikes but took them slow and easy! My doctor said the elevation in Maui was ok for hikes, but you may want to check with your doctor too before you go! I did a hike in Iao Valley in my first trimester where it is cooler, covered, and relatively flat unless you want to climb up to the lookout.

5. GO SHOPPING FOR BABY

   We wanted some cute things for the baby for his room and to remind us of this special trip. At the time, we didn’t know if it was a boy or girl but we found some gender-neutral items that we had to have! Goodnight Maui from the Blue Ginger’s Kids at Whaler’s Village was one of our favorite purchases! SoHa Keiki is another great place in Whaler’s Village for baby things!

6. GET A PRENATAL PREGNANCY MASSAGE

   I had a terrible knot in my back and needed a massage desperately! Unfortunately, it is not recommended to get a massage in the first trimester! I had to stretch it out, but for your second or third-trimester moms, get one of those fabulous pregnancy massages by the beach (we love the spa at the Sheraton Maui Resort and Spa)!

7. GO SNORKELING

   I was sad I couldn’t Scuba dive while pregnant, but could still see the Hawaiian Green Sea Turtles and plenty of tropical fish while snorkeling! BE CAUTIOUS! Do not go in rough waters and always go with a buddy. Our favorite place to snorkel is around Black Rock on Kaanapali Beach, but check out all of our Favorite Snorkel Spots.

8. GO TO A LUAU

   Live entertainment will have you and baby dancing! I love watching the Hawaiian traditional dances and cuisine (I’m looking at you, Kalua Pig). Just be cautious of the food you’re consuming and make sure it is safe for the baby! The Grand Wailea Luau is gorgeous!

9. GO FOR A DRIVE

   Depending on how you are feeling, the Road to Hana is amazing! However, the windy roads are not great if you are still in the nausea stage. I was super nauseous but I did enjoy the drive from Kaanapali to the Nakalele Blow Hole! We got out and explored a little, taking a quick hike down to the blowhole (it’s about 1/4 mile down from the road). You can see it from up high if you are not in a hiking phase. I also enjoyed the drive up to Haleakala for a walk and sunset! Bring warm clothes and some dinner to enjoy. Once it gets dark you can see the Milky Way depending on the time of year. OR catch the sunrise at Haleakala which is amazing as well, try a guided tour so you don’t have to worry about a thing!

   See more info on Haleakala and the Nakalele Blow Hole in our Things to do in Maui post.

10. TAKE STUNNING MATERNITY AND BABY BUMP PHOTOS

    I didn’t have a bump yet, but check out these gorgeous photos from Baby Hawaii Photography! They even do an underwater photoshoot! Tracy is PHENOMENAL! We had family photos taken and she was so great about getting the right light, pose, my good side 😉, and she is the nicest person. HIGHLY recommend Baby Hawaii Photography for photos!

Don’t miss: Must haves for baby - small spaces, budget and travel

Take Maternity photos in Maui with Baby Hawaii Photography

---

Mochiko Chicken Lunch from Tin Roof

Best Restaurants and Food in Maui to have on a Babymoon

While in my first-trimester food aversions and nausea were in high gear, so it was hard to make food choices until I was actually hungry! As much as I love chicken, for about 2 weeks I couldn’t look at, smell, or even think of eating chicken. We had Garlic Noodles at Star Noodle, but once we brought the leftovers back to eat the next day, I just couldn’t do it. I was so sad because they are AMAZING! Things that I actually craved while there:

• ICE CREAM (of course) from Island Cream Co

• Nachos with pulled pork from Maui Brew Co

• Burger and fries from Merriman’s or Duke’s

• Volcano Chicken from Aloha Braised (before the chicken incident)

• PIZZA - I had a fantastic Kalua Pork & Pineapple pizza at Monkeypod with kalua pork, macnut pesto, roasted pineapple, jalapeño, and green onion!

• Decaf Mac Nut Latte from Island Press Coffee

• Mac nut pancakes with coconut syrup from Gazebo

• Donuts from Lahaina Bakery

Check out all of our Favorite Restaurants in Maui with great food and spectacular views!

---

Where to Stay in Maui for a Babymoon: Best Hotels in Maui

You pretty much want to stay in Wailea or Kaanapali on your Maui Babymoon. We love Kaanapali because there are more restaurants, hotels, and things to do in the area, and Lahaina is a 10 min drive (if that)! Wailea is nice and relaxing and more upscale, so that might be more accommodating to your needs while growing a human! You can always drive to Kaanapali or Wailea, they are just about 45-60 mins from each other.

We love the Sheraton Maui and Grand Wailea or Honua Kai if you’re looking for a condo!

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!

Looking for a complete Maui resource? Our Ultimate Maui Travel Guide brings together hotels, activities, food, and travel tips in one place.

---

FAQs

Is Maui a Good Babymoon Destination?

Yes — Maui is one of the best babymoon destinations, especially for couples looking to relax before baby arrives. The island’s laid-back pace, warm weather, and beautiful beaches make it easy to unwind without overexertion. Maui also offers plenty of pregnancy-safe activities, luxury resorts with on-site dining and spas, and short drive times between attractions, which is ideal when energy levels fluctuate. With excellent healthcare facilities, clean beaches, and a strong focus on wellness, Maui is a stress-free and memorable choice for a babymoon.

Is Maui safe to visit while pregnant?

Yes, Maui is generally safe to visit while pregnant, especially for healthy pregnancies with your doctor’s approval. The island offers excellent medical care, pregnancy-safe activities, and a relaxed pace that makes it an ideal babymoon destination.

What trimester is best for a Maui babymoon?

The second trimester is the best trimester to have a babymoon in Maui! With the long flight, I highly recommend going after the nausea (hopefully) subsides from the first trimester and before you get into the fatigue and no fly zone of the third trimester.

Can you snorkel in Maui while pregnant?

Yes, always consult with your doctor and check the surf conditions before you enter the water. You don’t want rough waters and ALWAYS snorkel with a buddy, don’t snorkel alone.

Should you come back to Maui with kids?

YES, you should absolutely come back to Maui with kids. Start planning now with our Maui with Kids Travel Guide breaks down family-friendly hotels, beaches, and easy activities.

---

What to Pack for a Maui Babymoon While Pregnant

Pregnancy brain gets the best of us! Here is a list of what to pack for your perfect baby moon:

• Comfortable, breathable clothing (loose dresses, linen shorts, soft tops)

• Supportive walking shoes or sandals with arch support for beach walks and exploring

• Compression socks for flights to reduce swelling and improve circulation

• Pregnancy-safe sunscreen (reef-safe and mineral-based)

• Wide-brim hat and sunglasses for sun protection

• Reusable water bottle to stay hydrated in Maui’s warm climate

• Prenatal vitamins and any doctor-approved medications

• Snacks (protein bars, crackers, or nuts) for flights and day trips

• Swimsuit with bump-friendly support (consider high-waisted or maternity styles)

• Light cover-up or sarong for beaches and poolside lounging

• Travel pillow or lumbar support for flights and long drives

• Anti-nausea essentials (ginger chews, motion sickness bands, or prescribed remedies)

• Travel-sized toiletries including pregnancy-safe skincare

• Copy of your medical info and OB contact details, just in case

• Flip flops or water shoes for beach showers and rocky shorelines

• Light cardigan or wrap for evenings and air-conditioned spaces

Shop our Maui Babylon Pregnancy Packing list on Amazon

---

Pregnancy Travel Tips (Perfect for a Maui Babymoon)

Always consult your healthcare provider before traveling while pregnant. Activity recommendations may vary based on individual health and pregnancy stage.

• Travel during the second trimester (weeks 14–27) when energy levels are higher and morning sickness is usually gone

• Get your OB’s approval before flying, especially if you have any pregnancy complications

• Choose nonstop or short flights when possible to reduce fatigue and swelling

• Wear compression socks on flights to improve circulation and reduce leg swelling

• Stay hydrated and bring a refillable water bottle for flights and beach days

• Avoid overly strenuous activities like long hikes, cliff jumping, or rough ocean conditions

• Stick to pregnancy-safe activities such as snorkeling in calm water, prenatal massage, scenic drives, and beach walks

• Schedule frequent breaks and rest time—plan no more than one major activity per day

• Book resorts with easy beach access and on-site dining to minimize walking and driving

• Pack pregnancy-safe sunscreen, medications, and prenatal vitamins in your carry-on

• Listen to your body and slow down—a babymoon is about relaxation, not checking off a list

• Purchase travel insurance that covers pregnancy-related cancellations or changes

---

Flamingos at the Hyatt Maui

What NOT to Do While Pregnant in Maui

I’m not a medical professional, so always follow your provider’s guidance, but here are a few things that are not recommended to do while pregnant in Maui:

• Don’t over-schedule your days — heat, walking, and time changes can cause fatigue faster than expected

• Avoid strenuous hikes like steep sections of the Road to Hana or summit hikes without shade

• Don’t snorkel or swim in rough ocean conditions—always check surf reports and choose calm beaches

• Avoid cliff jumping or waterfall jumping, even if others are doing it

• Don’t sit in hot tubs or overheated spas; opt for warm pools or pregnancy-approved spa treatments

• Avoid long periods in direct sun—Maui’s sun is intense and can lead to dehydration or overheating

• Don’t skip meals or hydration—always carry water and snacks when exploring

• Avoid activities with high fall risk like horseback riding, ziplining, or ATV tours

• Don’t eat raw or undercooked foods such as sushi, poke, or runny eggs

• Avoid driving the Road to Hana without frequent stops—motion sickness and fatigue can sneak up quickly

• Don’t book boat tours without confirming pregnancy guidelines, especially for rough-water excursions

• Avoid alcohol-centric activities like wine or brewery tours

---

Kapalua Coastal walk views - Pregnancy Safe thing to do in Maui on babymoon

5-day Babymoon Itinerary in Maui, Hawaii

If you’re looking for an itinerary and staying in Kaanapali, I would do something like this:

DAY 1:

Morning/Early Afternoon: Arrival, rent car, pick-up lunch at Tin Roof near airport and enjoy at the beach, check into hotel

Afternoon: Relax in hotel room or by the pool

Dinner: Monkeypod - try the Kalua Pork & Pineapple pizza (make a reservation in advance)

Dessert: Pie at Monkeypod or Ono Gelato next door

Don’t miss: Must haves for baby - small spaces, budget and travel

DAY 2:

Morning: Breakfast at Gazebo - Get some mac nut pancakes with coconut syrup (get there early or go to the back and get it to go to enjoy on the beach!)

Late Morning/Early afternoon: Snorkel Kapalua Bay or take a coastal walk

Lunch: Maui Brew Co - get the Nachos with pulled pork or the chicken wings!

Afternoon: Go shopping in Lahaina for baby things!

Dinner: Try out a Luau or go to Kimo’s Maui - get a virgin lava flow and some prime rib!

Dessert: Hula Pie at Kimos or Cookie ice cream sandwich at Banyan Treats

Road to Hana - Waimoku Falls

DAY 3:

Breakfast: Stop at Island Press Coffee for a breakfast sandwich and decaf Mac Nut Latte and head towards the Road to Hana (full day trip) or Iao Valley (1/2 day trip)

Afternoon: Relax or sleep in the car

Dinner: Star Noodle - get the garlic noodles (if you don’t have any food aversions)

DAY 4:

EARLY Morning: Haleakala Sunrise - Guided tour

Afternoon: Rest and get a prenatal massage

Late afternoon/Sunset: Maternity photos with Tracy at Baby Hawaii

Dinner: Hula Grill/Barefoot Bar - Get an ice cream sandwich for dessert!

DAY 5:

Morning: Get another decaf Mac Nut Latte and croissant breakfast sandwich from Island Press Coffee and enjoy on Kaanapali Beach. Then walk over to the Hyatt and visit the penguins and flamingos (it’s free and they’re always out)!

Afternoon: Head to the airport and start planning your next trip back!

---

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:

5-Day Itinerary for Babymooning in Maui, Hawaii

5-Day Itinerary for Babymoon in Maui, Hawaii

---

More Maui Blog Posts:

Baby Must Haves for Small Spaces and Travel in 2026

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!

Ergobaby Metro+ Travel Stroller & Eddie Bauer backpack

---

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

Cosco Kids Finale DX 2-in-1 Booster Car Seat, Forward Facing Toddler Car Seat (30-65 lbs) and Belt Positioning High Back Booster Seat (40-100 lbs), Sport Blue

Cosco

Graco 4Ever DLX 4-in-1 Car Seat, Grey, Infant to Toddler Car Seat, with 10 Years of Use, Rear-facing, Forward-facing and Booster Modes, Safe, Comfortable and Convenient

Newell

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.

Infantino Flip Advanced 4-in-1 Carrier - Ergonomic, convertible, face-in and face-out front and back carry for newborns and older babies 8-32 lbs

Infantino

Boba Baby Wrap Carrier - Original Baby Carrier Wrap, Baby Sling for Newborns - Baby Wearing Essentials - Hands-Free Newborn Wrap Swaddle Holder, Newborn to Toddler Infant Baby Sling, 7-35 lbs (Grey)

Boba

---

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.

Babyletto Hudson 3-in-1 Convertible Crib with Toddler Bed Conversion Kit in Washed Natural, Greenguard Gold Certified

Babyletto

Hatch Rest+ Baby & Kids Sound Machine | 2nd Gen | Child’s Night Light, Alarm Clock, Toddler Sleep Trainer, Time-to-Rise, White Noise, Bedtime Stories, Portable, Backup Battery (with Charging Base)

Hatch Baby

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.

Like this post? Please share with your family and friends! Pin this to your favorite Pinterest Board:

---

More posts:

40 Things You Must Pack for Hawaii (Plus Printable List) Don't forget the...

A curated collage of Hawaii outfit ideas featuring summer dresses, neutral sandals, and travel-friendly accessories suitable for island days and evenings.

Packing Essentials for Maui or any Island in Hawaii, Plus a Pretty Printable Packing Checklist - 2026 Update

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

1. Dresses - Short and Maxi (Hawaiian themed is always fun). I usually wear dresses for dinner and wandering around. See more Hawaii Outfit ideas here

2. Light Sweater - for cooler nights

3. Workout Clothes - Hikes, Road to Hana, Runs on the beach, Zip-lining, golfing, etc.

4. 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!

5. Plane Outfit - I love a good oversized top and leggings since it is usually a long-haul

6. Basics - Socks, Underwear, Bras, Sports Bras, PAJAMAS!

7. Small Purse - to hold an ID, Credit card, cash, phone, lipstick, gum and maybe a car key

8. 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.

Lilly Pulitzer Women's Kailua Smocked Maxi, Resort White Just a Pinch Engineered Knit Dress

Lilly Pulitzer

ASICS Women's Gel-Venture 9 Running Shoes, 9, Indigo Blue/Papaya

Asics

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

1. Flip-flops - I love Havianas! They are the only flip flop brand I’ve bought for 15 years.

2. Sandals - To wear to restaurants and shopping, unless you want to wear your flip flops

3. Swimsuit - I bring a couple so one is always dry

4. 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

5. Sunglasses - Sojo Sunglasses on Amazon are budget-friendly, great quality, and trendy!

6. Towel - or use the resort towels

7. Beach or tote bag - to throw towels, sunscreen, magazine, clothes, etc.

8. Water Bottle - Stay hydrated! Collapsable bottles are great!

9. Snacks - We like to have granola bars, gummi bears, and M&M’s on hand for the plane or for the room

10. Crossword Puzzle - This is our FAVORITE puzzle! Travel terms and countries! https://amzn.to/4lVixuR

CATCHY & CRAFTY Swimsuit Coverup for Women Kimono Cardigan Beach Floral Boho Print Resort Wear Cruise Gift (Nude Pink Floral)

CATCHY & CRAFTY

Tempt Me Women Green Floral Ruched Slimming One Piece Swimsuits Tummy Control Vintage Bathing Suits L

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

1. 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!

2. Aloe Vera - I don’t know about you, but I always miss a spot.

3. Basics - Shampoo, Conditioner, Shower Gel (if you prefer your own, most hotels have these)

4. Deodorant

5. First Aid - I pack a few bandaids, Neosporin, aspirin… just in case!

6. Manicure Set - Manicure scissors (small TSA friendly ones), Nail clipper, tweezers, small nail file

7. Makeup! - I forgot my makeup bag once. It wasn’t pretty.

8. Hairbrush and Comb

9. Hairspray/Gel

10. Hair ties and Bobby pins - don’t forget, it gets windy on the beach!

11. Curling Iron or Flat Iron - Beachy waves are cool too!

12. Feminine Products

Sun Bum Original SPF 50 Sunscreen Body Lotion | Broad Spectrum Moisturizing Sunblock with Vitamin E | Hawaii 104 Act Compliant (Octinoxate & Oxybenzone Free) | 8 oz

Sun Bum

Fruit of the Earth Aloe Vera Gel, 2 oz (56 g) (Bundle of 3)

KT Travel

---

Maui Hawaii Beach

ELECTRONICS FOR HAWAII

1. GoPro - Get those adventure shots while swimming, snorkeling, zip-lining, surfing, waterfall hiking, or parasailing

2. Camera - We love our DSLR for a higher quality shot

3. 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.

4. 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!

5. Headphones/Airpods - don’t forget the little jack for Apple devices if you don’t use bluetooth

6. External battery - keep your electronics charged! We like the Mophie brand with built-in cables so you aren’t searching for them.

7. Cables - don’t forget your charging cables for your phone, headphones, tablet, watch…

GoPro HERO13 Black Accessory Bundle - Includes The Handler, 2 Enduro Batteries, 2 Curved Adhesive Mounts, 64GB SanDisk MicroSD Card, and Carrying Case

GoPro

Mophie Powerstation Plus 10,000mAh Power Bank - Has Integrated USB-C and Lightning Cables, Fast Charging for Smartphones, Tablets, and iPhones

mophie

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!

1. 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!

2. Fins

3. Baby Shampoo - use as defogging for the mask!

4. 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

5. Dive Book and PADI/Dive Certification - for divers

6. Diver Essentials - Dive Watch, BCD, Wetsuit, etc. We usually make sure the dive shop has the basic package.

7. Scuba Mesh Bag to carry all of the above! We carry this mesh bag on the plane with our gear.

Cressi Liberty Triside Spe Diving Mask, Black/Black/Pink

Cressi

IUGA Rash Guard for Women UPF 50+ SPF UV Protection Long Sleeve Workout Tops with Pockets Dry Fit Hiking Swim Shirt Green

IUGA

Want a FREE printable/downloadable list with everything in this post? Click here: Packing Essentials for Hawaii 

---

CARRY-ON LUGGAGE RECOMMENDATION

Travelpro Maxlite 5 Softside Expandable Carry on Luggage with 4 Spinner Wheels, Lightweight Suitcase, Men and Women, Orchid Pink Purple, Carry On 21-Inch

Travelpro

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.

---

If you liked this post please share it on your favorite social media site using the Share button below because we’d love to get the word out! Feel free to pin this to your favorite Pinterest board:

---

More MAUI posts:

Ice Cream Review: The Dolly Llama - Los Angeles

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

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

• ICE CREAM SPOT: DOLLY LLAMA

• LOCATIONS: Across the US

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

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

• Dietary Restrictions: Vegan option always available

• Take-out: Local delivery service available

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

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

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

---

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Dolly Llama Menu

More reasons…

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

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

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

Dolly Llama Ice Cream options

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

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

Ice Cream Artist at work!

AND TA DAAAAAAAA!

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

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

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

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

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

---

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:

---

Another scoop please!

Great Fall Travel Dresses (budget-friendly and good quality) from Amazon!

Fall in love with these Autumnal Dresses and Outfits from Amazon

Updated 2024 version!

I love dresses and wear them all year long! I have bought a ton of dresses from Amazon and get pretty good quality for a relatively cheap price (and prime members can get them the next day)!

Whether you are taking a road trip or seeing family during this autumn, see the gallery for great fall dress ideas that won’t break the bank! Many of these dresses come in various patterns! Take a closer look at them to find your favorite!

---

Amoretu Women Long Sleeve Casual V Neck Loose Swing Tunic Shift Dress Burgundy M

Amoretu

Buy on Amazon

Fall in love with RED

First up, my favorite fall color is maroon or burgundy, anything deep red!

---

QACOHU Simple Loose Ruffle Long Sleeve V Neck Mini Spring Autumn Dress Women Shift Dress Leopard M

QACOHU

Buy on Amazon

Animal Print Dresses on Amazon

Leopard print dresses are always welcome! Stand out in the crowd with these frisky numbers! Prrrrrrr

---

CUPSHE Women's Mini Dress Floral Print V Neck Chiffon A-Line Short Dress Long Peasant Sleeves Navy, XXL

Buy on Amazon

Autumn Floral Dresses

I have spring floral, summer floral, and fall floral dresses, trust me, there’s a difference!

---

BTFBM Women Long Sleeve Wrap Maxi Dress V Neck Boho Floral High Waist Flowy Ruffle 2024 Spring Summer Dresses with Belt(Floral Wine Red White, X-Large)

BTFBM

Buy on Amazon

Long Fall Dresses

Take that Instagram picture running through the leaves with your frock trailing behind you!

---

Fun Fall Style Dresses

Patterns and new cuts are always a great way to freshen up your wardrobe! Definitely a great dress to wear to Thanksgiving or Friendsgiving!

R.Vivimos Women's Summer Boho Button Up V Neck Floral Print Roll Up Causal Split Beach Midi Dresses (X-Large, Green)

Buy on Amazon

See all of these and more on AMAZON FALL TRAVEL DRESSES

---

If you liked this post please share it on your favorite social media site using the Share button below because we’d love to get the word out! Feel free to pin this to your favorite Pinterest board:

More Blog Posts:

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

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

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

---

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

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

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

Find your closest Coldstone Location

---

McDonald's Shamrock Shake and Oreo Shamrock McFlurry

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

McDonalds locations

---

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

Salt & Straw: Pots of Gold and Rainbows

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

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

---

Dairy Queen: Mint Brownie Blizzard and Under the Rainbow Shake

Dairy Queen: Mint Brownie Blizzard and Under the Rainbow Shake

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

---

Ben & Jerry’s: Dublin Mudslide

Ben & Jerry’s: Dublin Mudslide

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

---

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

Save this to your favorite Pinterest board:

---

How about another scoop?!

Guide: How to Spend 3 days in Kauai, Hawaii

Where to Stay, Restaurant Recommendations, and things to do in Kauai, Hawaii

Hi friends! It’s been awhile since I’ve done a blog post! I now have 2 little ones and a full time job which leaves little time to blog. A friend reached out about Kauai recommendations which I realized I didn’t have a post for! So here we go! Josh and I went to Kauai (just us) in January 2020 after ringing in the New Year in Maui.

Similar Post: HAWAIIAN ISLANDS: Oahu vs Maui vs Kauai - which island is best?

We liked Kauai but I think Maui is still our favorite! Here are some things that we did the I recommend and a few restaurant recommendations! I also included a mini review of the Sheraton Kauai.

---

Sheraton Kauai Room Views

Where to Stay: Sheraton Kauai

We stayed at the Sheraton Kauai because we had free nights and points to spare! The hotel was a little older but they recently renovated the rooms. Our room was a good size! Plenty of room for activities, the bathroom was really big too with a shower/tub combo.

My complaint: The air conditioner was really loud and obnoxious which when we called they said they would send maintenance to look at it and we never heard back from them, nor was the AC any quieter.

The pool was nice and we spent some time in the jacuzzi which was really hot! The beach is pretty rocky in front of some of the rooms, but there’s a good beach right in front of the pool if you want to go for a swim. The water was pretty rough from a storm so always beware of the conditions.

Sheraton Kauai Beach

I really liked their restaurant on site called RumFire Poipu Beach, where we had prime rib and a creme brûlée cheesecake. The sunset ocean views aren’t bad either!

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

---

Where to Eat / Great Restaurants

A short drive or walking distance there is a shopping center called The Shops at Kukui‘ula with lots of restaurants and shops!

Merriman’s Kauai (2829 Ala Kalanikaumaka St, Koloa, HI 96756)

Merriman’s Kauai is one of our faves! We love the Maui Kappalua location and Kauai did not disappoint! They have the BEST Mai Tais! I dream of that pineapple foam. Make reservations ahead of time or get there around 5p to walk in with no wait.

Bubba Burgers Poipu (2829 Ala Kalanikaumaka St Building L, Koloa, HI 96756) is great for a burger and fries!

Lappert’s Ice Cream (2829 Ala Kalanikaumaka St, Koloa, HI 96756) What would a Sweetest Escapes post be without ice cream! I LOVE Lappert’s ice cream! They have tons of amazing flavors with ingredients like coconut, macadamia nuts, ube, Lilikoi, pineapple, chocolate, fudge, and more! There’s always a line out the door but it’s worth the wait! My fave is Kauai Pie (Kona Coffee Cold Brew + coconut flakes + dark chocolate fudge + Hamakua macadamia nuts + Vanilla cake crunch)!

Lappert’s Ice Cream

Kalaheo Coffee and Cafe (2-2560 Kaumualii Hwy, Kalaheo, HI 96741)

This is a great stop on the way to Waimea Canyon. We grabbed a quick bite and got some treats for the road since there weren’t a lot of options. Macnut lattes are a must have!

---

Things to do:

Helicopter Ride

Go on a helicopter ride if you can! We tried to go a few times but it was too windy and unsafe to fly so we never got to go! 😟 Most of tours take you to areas where they filmed Jurassic Park and gorgeous views of Napali Coast. I would book your ride earlier in the trip so if they have to cancel you still have a chance to reschedule.

---

Hike Waimea Canyon

Waimea Canyon - mile Marker 10

A good day trip is Waimea Canyon. There are waterfalls, hikes, and gorgeous views.

What to pack for the day: Bring map or save to your phone offline (spotty cell service), drinking water, antibacterial (no soap in the bathrooms), jacket, towel, rain gear (optional). Make sure you pack warm clothes it was 60ish and I needed layers as I got warm while hiking. It rains a lot so there is mud, lots of mud. I may or may not have slipped and fallen in the mud.

Red Dirt Falls

See the Red dirt waterfall between mile marker 2-3. It was dried up when we went but still neat to see the red dirt.

Waimea Canyon Lookout has big vistas (see panoramic photo above) and located at mile marker 10. Parking was $5 in 2020 but good for all lookout spots. Note, it was credit card only. There were bathrooms but no soap at the sink so bring antibacterial.

Mile Marker 12 - Heart Shaped Waterfall

Right before mile marker 12 there was a perfect spot to get the heart shaped waterfall and is a great spot to have a sweet escape (brownie from Kalaheo Coffee and Cafe)!

Two lookouts, the Puu ka Pele and Puu hinahina, have parking and provide breathtaking views:

Waimea Canyon

Trails to note from research:

• Cliff Trail – A 40 minute, 2 mile return hike from the main road (the turnoff is just before the Kokeʻe State Park sign) to a viewpoint overlooking the canyon. You could also drive most of the way here if you have a 4WD or do the longer Canyon Trail to a waterfall. This was quieter than the more accessible viewpoints.

• Pu’u Hinahina Lookout – Another fantastic viewpoint just a short walk from the car park. Toilets available.

• Waimea Canyon Lookout – The busiest but best view of the canyon and waterfall. At midday we were able to shoot away from the sun so got better photos than at the other viewpoints. There are toilets and a fruit and drink stand.

---

Take a drive along the coast!

We drove to Princeville where there are some nice beaches, it felt more private the further north you drive! We made a lot of stops. Just take your time, the earlier you go the less crowded everything is!

We had a great lunch at Tropical Taco in Hanalei! I had a carne asada burrito and it was fantastic. Took awhile to get it but it was tasty. I’m sure the fish tacos are equally amazing but I don’t eat fish so I couldn’t say.

Tropical Taco in Hanalei

---

Shipwreck Beach Cliffs

Explore your backyard!

There are lots of places to just stop and enjoy the views! This was a short hike up, but great place to watch the sun start to set. The photo above was taken near our hotel at Shipwreck Beach. We drove over and parked on Ainakoa street then walked down to the beach.

---

Wailua Falls

Rainbows at Wailua Falls

We stopped at Wailua Falls on our way to the airport because it was less than 15 mins from the airport. This beautiful double waterfall is easily accessible (just drive up and park, you’ll see it from the road) and often features a rainbow.

---

Hawaiian Monk Seal on Poipu Beach

Keep your eyes open! Look out for turtles and seals on Poipu Beach! We saw a Hawaiian Monk seal on the beach, which was protected by the rangers who put a barricade around him to let him take a nap in peace.

---

We had a great trip to Kauai and would definitely go back!

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

If you liked this post please share it on your favorite social media site using the Share button below because we’d love to get the word out! Feel free to pin this to your favorite Pinterest board:

---

More Hawaii posts…

18 Fun or Romantic Things to do in Maui for Couples

18 Romantic Activities to do in Maui, Hawaii

Many couples come to Maui for their honeymoon. Well, we went and got engaged there, then married there the following year, and have visited for our anniversary every year since 2013!

Whether you are visiting for a honeymoon, engagement, wedding, anniversary, or just a romantic getaway, there are plenty of activities to do with the love of your life! There are many romantic things to do in Maui, see our favorites below with various activities, dining, and some free things to do!

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

See the most romantic hotels in Maui at the bottom of the post after #18!

This guide is part of our Ultimate Maui Travel Guide, which covers everything from family travel to honeymoons and first-time visits.

---

1. Watch the Sunrise above Haleakala

Sunrise at Haleakala

Picture being above the clouds at 10,000 feet. It’s a bit chilly but you have your love to cuddle and keep you warm. The sun starts to slowly rise up through the clouds with rays beaming across the sky. Picture perfect, right? That’s right when Josh asked me to marry him!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Star Gazing in Maui - Milky Way

2. Go Star Gazing

Not a morning person? That’s ok! Maui is perfect for catching a shooting star, seeing the Milky Way (at certain times of the year), or finding your favorite constellation. We like to grab sandwiches and drive up to the top of Haleakala for sunset and then some stargazing.

Black Sand Beach - Wainapanapa

3. Drive the Road to Hana

Pack your swimsuits and make a playlist for a gorgeous drive! The Road to Hana has plenty of activities for couples such as swimming, lying on the beach, finding waterfalls, and enjoying the scenic island! See our top 23 spots to stop along the Road to Hana.

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

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

4. Relax with a Couples Massage

Most resorts have a lovely spa attached where you can sign up for a couples massage at the spa or on the beach. We love the Sheraton Maui Resort and Spa usually get a basic full body massage for 50 mins ($130), but this last time we went for the 80 mins ($180) and it was worth every penny. The spa rooms are patio with natural sunlight peaking from the top, complete with soothing Hawaiian tunes. The spa offers a variety of massages and invites travelers to relax on the massage tables around the resort! There are a couple closer to the ocean for that soothing sound of waves crashing.

5. Have a Romantic Dinner

Our favorite anniversary dinner spot is Merriman’s in Kapalua. Located right on the bay, Merriman’s has a gorgeous view of the sunset and delicious food (and drinks) to indulge in. Looking for more restaurants? Check out our post with our FAVORITE MAUI RESTAURANTS.

6. Go on a Hike

View from Waihee Ridge Hiking Trail

There are many free things to do as a couple and hiking is a perfect example. Depending on where you go, you may have to pay for parking, but in most places, you’ll pull alongside a road and find a trail.

Check out our FAVORITE MAUI HIKING TRAILS.

7. Shake your hips together at a Lu’au

The Drums of the Pacific Lu'au encompasses Hawaiian traditions with fun! The Rhythms of the Polynesian ritual will have you and your sweetheart dancing along at the Hyatt on Kaanapali Beach. A traditional Hawaiian feast is served buffet style with an open bar with neverending Mai Tais (though I would limit to a couple 😉). Find a luau near you: Best Maui Luaus

8. Romantic Couple Photoshoot

If you’re on your honeymoon, grab your “Just Maui’d” sign and flip-flops, and consider taking photos for thank-you cards!

I highly recommend Baby Hawaii Photography! Tracy is PHENOMENAL! Not only does she do beautiful pregnancy shoots, but will also do a couples session, and an underwater photoshoot! We had family photos taken and she was so great about getting the right light, pose, my good side 😉, and she is the nicest person!

Baby Hawaii Photography - also specialize in couple photos as well!

Related Post: 10 Best Things to do in Maui, Hawaii

9. Zipline Together

Ziplining is a great time for bonding! You can race each other or hold hands while sailing along the treetops, depending on your type of relationship.

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

10. Share Some Shave Ice

Hawaiian Shave Ice

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

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

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

By sharing, I mean each get your own but give each other a bite!

11. Wine Tasting at MauiWine

MauiWine opened in 1974 and is located in Kula, Maui. They are known for estate-grown wines, traditional method sparkling wines, and get this, PINEAPPLE wines!

Make a reservation for your tasting at King's Cottage for wine flights, wines by the glass, and wine cocktails!

Even the sea Turtles kiss in Maui

12. Snorkel with Sea Turtles

The best part about the end of the Kaanapali beach is the Black Rock, which is located right in front of the Sheraton Maui Resort. Where it might seem like a hideous black lava rock, under the sea you can find gorgeous coral, tons of fish, and usually see a Hawaiian sea turtle or two! You might even see them kiss, click the photo above to see the video.

Another great spot is Kapalua Bay. Even though the clarity isn't as great as around Black Rock, there are still plenty of fish to see. On one of our swims, we saw 6 turtles! We parked in a free beach parking lot next to Merriman's Kapalua, but make sure you get there early for a spot.

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

See more in our Best Snorkel Spots in Maui post (video included)!

Pro-tip: Ship snorkel gear straight to the hotel! This snorkel mask is incredible for snorkeling! It comes in different colors and sizes

13. Share a Cabana

If you’re staying at a resort, take a day to relax with your sweetheart by the pool! Order lunch and drinks, bring a deck of cards, and enjoy each others company! Don’t forget the sunscreen.

Maui Sunset

14. Sunset Cruise

Take a romantic sunset cruise along the Maui waters with your love! Most cruises include open bar and live music, but there are also options for Luaus and dinner cruises, too! Book ahead of time as many adventures sell out!

15. Whale Watch

The Whales visit Maui from November to March

Catch a Whale Watch Tour as recommended by the locals! Maui charters will do sunset cruises, or day cruises. Look out for humpback whales!

16. Go Scuba Diving

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

17. Get Maui’d!

Are you wedding planning and can’t decide where to get married? I HIGHLY recommend a destination wedding! Whether you elope or invite 300 people, Maui is such a romantic setting and the perfect place to say, “I do!” We had about 70 people at our wedding and it was like vacationing with all your favorite people in the world!

18. Go on a Coastal Walk

Maybe you’re not the hiking type couple, but whether you’re in Wailea, Kaanapali, or Kapalua, there is a paved beach walk to enjoy and see Maui’s beauty! Lookout for turtles swimming along in the waves!

19. Have a Beach Day

Grab your sun tent and towels to cozy up on the beach with your love!

---

Romantic Places to Stay in Maui

The best hotels in Maui for couples include those along the beach where you can catch a romantic sunset, go to a “quiet” pool where children aren’t allowed (trust me, I love my kid, but Mama needs a break now and again), or where there is a spa for a coveted couples massage:

Wailea - The Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea or The Andaz Maui at Wailea Resort

Kaanapali - The Sheraton Maui Resort and Spa (stay in the deluxe oceanfront rooms for a quiet, peaceful getaway) or the Hyatt Regency Maui Resort and Spa

---

More Maui posts!

Hotel Review: Hyatt Regency Westlake

Hotel Review: Hyatt Regency Westlake

Address: 880 S Westlake Blvd, Westlake Village, CA 91361

We had a free night expiring and wanted to see how the baby would do away from home, so after a day trip to Santa Barbara, we stayed at the Hyatt Regency Westlake. It was weird staying in a hotel 15 minutes from where I grew up, but nice to break up the 2+ hour drive, and baby’s first hotel stay!

Main Entrance - Hyatt Westlake

There is valet or self park, we opted to self park because we knew we’d be in and out. Self parking was FREE!

The lobby was large and felt a little dated but had some charm to it.

---

Guest Rooms

The guest rooms are really nice and spacious! They have been recently renovated and have really nice wood floors, modern furniture, and are relatively quiet, though we were on the top floor and I don’t think anyone was in the room next to us.

The room had a very large TV and an empty mini fridge, perfect for leftovers and baby bottles! There was a nice Keurig with some pods and paper coffee cups. Not sure if it’s a new thing, but there weren’t any glasses or cups in the room. I like to take a glass and put my toothbrush in it in the bathroom. I improvised this trip.

The 4th and 5th floors have balconies but there isn’t a ton of room to do anything but stand and get fresh air. We were hoping to hang out there after the baby went to bed but there wasn’t any patio furniture or room to pull out a chair. There isn’t much of a view, just of the parking lot, which by the way, has plenty of self-parking and is free!

When the curtains and blackout curtains are drawn, the room is nice and dark. The hotel is really close to the freeway so you could occasionally hear freeway noise, but we brought our white noise machine and it really drowned it out.

One nerdy thing that got us excited was that the outlets by the bed had not only usb3 chargers but USB-C chargers for our iPhones! There was also a hole that you could slip the cord down and charge in the shelf below the drawer so you have more room on top of the nightstand.

There is a couch in the room with a pullout bed, or you can just use it as a couch to write blog posts and eat your Sprinkles cupcake. I do regret not taking a picture of said cupcake, I do not regret eating the cupcake. 😂

We asked for a crib and they brought us a Graco pack n play that is just like ours at home! It didn’t have a mattress but had a pad with a sheet tightly wrapped.

Balcony at Hyatt Westlake

The bathroom was a decent size, though it’s not huge, but had enough counter space for our toiletries and a shelf below for towels and storage. There wasn’t a tub, but a shower with a wand so we could give baby a bath. I did like the clock in the mirror as well as the dim automatic light while I was trying to be quiet and keep it dark to not wake the baby.

Bathroom Hyatt Westlake Guestrooms

---

Shower Hyatt Westlake Guestrooms

---

Restaurants

There’s a restaurant and bar called Harvest in the hotel, which has indoor and outdoor seating. There were also some grab and go items for breakfast.

There are a ton of restaurants nearby and shopping centers if you need anything! May I recommend Brent’s deli for breakfast or lunch, Paul Martins for dinner, and Sprinkles Cupcakes for dessert! I also love the wine bar, Stonehaus, which is about a mile away, they have tons of outdoor seating in a beautiful garden and great wine and food (mainly salads, sandwiches, and pizza). Perfect spot for lunch or cocktail hour!

Brent’s Deli Westlake

---

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

---

More to read: