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Maui With Kids: The Ultimate Family Travel Guide 2026
Maui is one of the easiest and most rewarding Hawaiian islands to visit with kids. From calm, swimmable beaches and walkable resort areas to family-friendly hotels, restaurants, and activities, this guide shares everything you need to know to plan a smooth, memorable Maui vacation with toddlers and young kids—based on real family experience.
This is what "Blue Health" looks like! There is a scientific reason why our kids are so much happier by the ocean—the coastal air and water actually boost creativity and calm. We chose Honua Kai for its perfect balance of shared family space and easy beach access, making it the ideal home base for our latest world-schooling adventure.
Is Maui Worth It With Kids? A Real Family-Friendly Travel Guide
Yes — Maui is absolutely worth visiting with kids. From calm beaches and stroller-friendly resort areas to kid-loving restaurants and flexible activities, Maui is one of the easiest Hawaiian islands to enjoy as a family — even with toddlers.
Our kids don’t understand how lucky they are for the amount of times they have gone to Hawaii! Maui is our favorite destination for traveling as a family. There is so much to do and the island has so much to offer for everyone. We have made some sweet memories together from having an infant to toddler and kid years.
We have learned to have a successful trip you need the balance of snacks, naps, and fun! therefore, we have recommendations for accommodations, restaurants, and things to do to entertain (and hopefully tire out) your tot!
Related Post: Don’t miss our ULTIMATE MAUI GUIDE
Honokōwai Beach Park with a playground in Maui
🌴 Is Maui Safe to Visit Right Now? (Updated March 25, 2026)
If you’re planning a Maui trip with kids and wondering about recent weather updates, I completely understand — it’s something I would be thinking about too! 🤍 See our weather post on Instagram!
We were actually in Hawaii during the recent Kona Low storm, and it was a little scary at times (especially when even locals were saying they hadn’t seen weather like that before). That said, situations like this are temporary, and Maui continues to be a beautiful and welcoming place to visit.
Most family-friendly areas like Wailea and Kaanapali are open and operating as usual. Weather can always impact plans a little, so having a flexible itinerary (especially with kids!) can make everything feel much smoother.
When we travel with our boys, I always like to have a few backup options — whether that’s a relaxed beach day, a pool afternoon, or an easy activity nearby. We hung out in the pool and at the beach a lot because they were near the hotel and we were wet from the rain anyway. Please use caution and check reports, the ocean might not be safe to swim in due to run-offs or strong currents.
I also had books and coloring books for the room, stock up on our favorite: The Trucks that Saved Series for rainy days with kids!
As always, it’s a good idea to check current conditions during your stay and use caution, especially with ocean conditions, which can change quickly.
Maui is such a special place for families, and this guide is here to help you plan a trip that feels fun, easy, and low-stress no matter what!
Honua Kai is a great place to stay with kids - multiple room option configurations, water slides, and a full kitchen, what else do you need?!
Best Places to Stay in Maui for Families
After many hotel and condo stays around Maui, let’s break up the island to compare which areas are best for your family!
🏝️ Best Areas to Stay in Maui With Kids
| Area | Best For | Walkability | Beach Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kā‘anapali | First-timers, toddlers | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Sandy, swimmable |
| Wailea | Luxury, older kids | ⭐⭐ | Resort beaches |
| Napili / Kapalua | Quiet stays, babies | ⭐ | Calm coves |
These are the best areas to stay in Maui with kids based on walkability, beach conditions, and family-friendly amenities.
Kaanapali vs Wailea vs Kapalua with Kids
Kaanapali is much more kid friendly, as well as budget friendly, than Wailea. Both areas of the island have family friendly hotels but Kaanapali has a long stretch of them! There is a great beach and tons of hotels and shopping along Kaanapali with a long walk way to connect everything together.
Wailea has more high end hotels that are more geared towards adults, such as the Four Seasons or the Andaz. The Grand Wailea has an awesome pool with lots of water slides but you can also get similar pools in Kaanapali.
Napili and Kapalua are further North and rockier than the previous areas discussed. It’s not as walkable as the hotel resorts are more spread out, which makes it less crowded and quieter. Kapalua bay has a great beach that doesn’t have big waves but also has a coral reef that is great for snorkeling! The Kapalua coastal trail is great for strollers or walking with a carrier.
🏨 Condo Resorts vs Hotels
Depending on your length of stay, if it’s more than 5 days, you might be more comfortable trying a condo like Outrigger’s Honua Kai! You can pick your room layout (Studio, One Bedroom, Two Bedroom or Three Bedrooms) so that you have plenty of space especially when babies or toddlers are napping and you need another room to hang out in!
Condo Rental Wins:
Pools are like resort pools! Honua Kai has one of our favorite pools complete with water slides, splash pad, and kiddie pool! You can even get food and drink poolside service from Duke’s restaurant!
My favorite feature is having a full kitchen with the little ones so you can make pancakes or have fresh fruit and milk available in a full sized refrigerator as opposed to a mini fridge.
We book through Maui Resort Rentals and they have cribs/pack n plays so you don’t have to bring a bed!
The Trucks that Saved the Park story book and coloring book are NOW available!
🧳 Planning a Hawaii trip with kids?
I made a free family packing list with carry-on essentials, beach must-haves, snacks, sleep items, and toddler travel favorites.
Taking first steps on a Little Beach bridges in front of Honua Kai
Best Resorts for families
Don’t get me wrong, the resort hotels are wonderful too! If you have kids that are 4+, traveling is a bit easier since you don’t have to bring diapers, strollers, pack n play, etc!
Kaanapali has a few great hotel resorts:
Westin Kā‘anapali Ocean Resort Villas
The Westin in Kaanapali has an amazing pool area with slides, fountains, and one especially parent-friendly feature: our 3-year-old could climb up to the slide on their own and land in a shallow pool (about 1.5 feet deep). This setup was a huge win for us—it gave our toddler independence while giving us a much-needed break from constant stair climbing.
The Westin also has great restaurants, a Starbucks, and an ARCADE!
Other activities include feeding the flamingos and birds in the morning. Ask the front desk about the times for daily feedings. We were even able to hold the birds too!
Hyatt Regency Maui Resort and Spa
The pool at the Hyatt Regency Maui is a kid’s tropical playground that feels more like a mini-waterpark than a hotel pool. Between the sandy lagoons, waterslides, swinging rope bridge, hidden grottos tucked behind rushing waterfalls, and the legendary Ululani’s Shave Ice located right on the pool deck, it provides enough adventure to keep children entertained from sunrise to sunset.
The Hyatt Regency Maui resort has a resident colony of African Black-Footed Penguins. Located right in the atrium lobby, these charismatic birds are a must-see, especially during the daily 9:30 AM feedings where children can watch them waddle, swim, and dive for their breakfast while learning about conservation from the wildlife team. It’s essentially a mini-zoo experience without leaving the hotel, featuring not just the penguins but also flamingos, swans, and talking parrots scattered throughout the lush grounds.
Has a game room/arcade area geared toward kids and teens.
African Black-Footed Penguins at the Hyatt Regency Maui
Wailea also has a family friendly hotel:
Grand Wailea
Though there isn’t an arcade, the Grand Wailea offers a kids club and teen lounge including video games and indoor activities— which is more structured and supervised than the Hyatt or Westin Arcades.
The Grand Wailea pool is widely considered the heavyweight champion for kids on Maui. The massive Wailea Canyon Activity Pool is a sprawling 25,700-square-foot playground that is actually nine individual pools connected by a network of lazy rivers and whitewater rapids.
Children can choose from five different waterslides, including the three-story Lava Tube for the brave and gentler interconnected slides for the younger ones. Between the Tarzan rope swing, the hidden caves behind waterfalls, and a dedicated Baby Beach with a sandy bottom and zero-entry slope, it essentially functions as a private, world-class waterpark that keeps kids engaged for days on end.
See our full review of The Grand Wailea.
Multi-Gen Logistics: Finding the "Middle Ground"
What are the best multi-generational resorts in Maui for kids and seniors?
The Sheraton Maui Resort in Kaanapali is ideal for families because it offers multiple room types and towers, making it easy to request adjoining rooms or stay close together.
Accessibility with Dignity: Multiple elevators and card-access doors make the property easy to navigate for those with strollers or limited mobility.
The Shared Experience: Kaanapali Beach is a great stretch for walking, and the resort's location near Black Rock provides world-class snorkeling that every generation can enjoy together.
A "Helper" Moment: As the kids watch the tour boats and beach equipment being moved, it's a perfect time to talk about how different "helper machines" make vacation fun—just like in The Trucks That Saved. My littles are excellent at pointing out all trucks, even in Maui!
The Grand Wailea is another top pick, featuring a massive pool area that functions like a water park for the kids, while grandparents can enjoy the Wailea Beach Path. This 1.5-mile concrete paved trail is perfect for a morning stroll with a stroller and a grandparent who prefers level ground (or walking a sleeping baby in a stroller! 😉).
Maui 2-Bedroom Condos for Families: The "Shared Space" Strategy
For families looking for communal living with private retreats, Honua Kai is unbeatable.
The Condo Advantage: These 2- and 3-bedroom units include full kitchens for slow breakfasts together, but offer enough separate bedrooms for a "quiet escape" when the kids have their high-energy "bursts of excitement" or early bedtimes.
Skip-Gen Potential: Booking through Maui Resort Rentals often includes beach gear like coolers and chairs. Help set up a base camp for the grandparents and kids on the beach while you and your husband enjoy a solo lunch nearby (Duke’s Beach-house) —a classic "skip-gen" bonding moment.
Literary Travel Tip: Pack your favorite book from the series to read by the pool; the "helper" themes of cooperation are great for teaching kids how to be good travelers alongside their extended family.
Honokōwai Beach Park
🏝️ Best Beaches in Maui for Kids
The key to the best kid friendly beaches in Maui:
Calm water
Shallow entry
Easy parking
Nearby bathrooms
Here’s what we recommend:
Kaanapali Beach is great for kids who are strong swimmers or like to boogie board. There are a few free lots to park in but they fill up quickly. Otherwise it’s best to park at a resort or the Whalers Village Shopping parking lot. See more but
Airplane Beach just north of Kaanapali has a more shallow entry and calmer waves than Kaanapali. Our toddlers loved running up to the waves crashing on the shower then running from the water before it could catch them. Parking is harder to find or the free lot near the Sheraton is quite a distance and fills up quickly.
Kapalua Bay is also a great play for littles that want to play in the ocean that is more Shallow with softer waves. If you peak on the other side of the bay off the grassy knoll, you’ll find turtles sleeping. There’s a parking lot (fills up quick, get there early) with public bathrooms nearby too.
Honokōwai Beach Park has a playground AND a great beach that is protected by a rock reef so it’s more like a pool that even infants can sit and play in! There’s also a public bathroom and parking lot too!
Look Closely for the Sleeping Green Hawaiian Sea Turtles in Kapalua Bay
Best Things to Do in Maui With Kids
Some of the best things to do in Maui with kids include beach days in Wailea, snorkeling in calm coves, easy Road to Hana stops, shave ice tastings, scenic hikes, and sunset walks along the coast. Maui makes it easy to mix adventure with relaxation for the whole family.
🌊 Snorkeling
Snorkeling is one of the best family-friendly activities in Maui. Head to calm beaches like Kapalua Bay, Black Rock, or Ulua Beach in Wailea where the water is typically gentle and clear. Kids love spotting colorful fish right off the shore, and many beaches have lifeguards and easy entry points.
Pro tip: Go early in the morning for the calmest water conditions.
🍧 Shave Ice Tasting
You can’t visit Maui with kids and skip shave ice. It’s practically a family tradition. Try tasting your way through different spots across the island — from classic rainbow flavors to fresh fruit syrups with ice cream at the bottom. It’s the perfect cool-down treat after beach time or a hike.
(We have a full list of our favorite shave ice spots in Maui here!)
🥾 Easy Hikes
ʻIao Valley is great to wander around and has different hiking levels for all ages. There’s also a stream to swim in, which makes it extra fun for kids.
Kapalua’s Coastal Trail is even stroller-friendly with stunning beach views and plenty of spots to stop and explore.
See our full breakdown in our Maui Hiking Trails Post!
🚜 Farm Visits
Kula Ranch is a great place to visit — especially in October! They have a full pumpkin patch as well as animals to look at and pet. Kula is above Wailea, but you’ll need to drive around the island to reach it.
And don’t leave without grabbing pumpkin bread from the little roadside stand!
🚗 The Road to Hana for All Ages: A Slow-Burn Itinerary
The Road to Hana is one of the best ways to experience how gorgeous Maui truly is—filled with waterfalls, black sand beaches, and famous banana bread stops. To make this an "ALL-day" success for three generations, prioritize a strategy that balances quality over quantity.
The ultimate "helper truck!" Stopping at Coconut Glen’s for their famous vegan ice cream is a Road to Hana tradition. Our kids loved seeing this real-life version of the hard-working vehicles in our book series, The Trucks That Saved.
A Sweet "Helper" Stop: Coconut Glen’s Ice Cream Truck
Don't forget to look for the whimsical, colorful ice cream truck at Mile Marker 27.5. While the famous gong may be gone, the magic is now served straight from a real-life "helper vehicle!"
The Experience: This is the perfect "Middle Ground" stop to stretch your legs in a Woodstock-like jungle setting.The kids will be mesmerized by the vibrant truck, and even the grandparents will be shocked by how creamy the organic, vegan coconut milk ice cream is.
Literary Travel Tie-In: As your kids watch the ice cream truck "help" hungry travelers, it’s the ultimate real-world connection to the characters in The Trucks That Saved.
Book Sales Bridge: "If your kids love seeing 'helper trucks' like this in the wild, they’ll recognize the same spirit of teamwork in our book, The Trucks That Saved the Park. It’s a great story to read aloud during your next beach picnic!"
What are the best low-impact stops for seniors and kids?
Waiʻānapanapa Black Sand Beach: This iconic stop offers a high-visual impact for everyone.
Multi-Gen Pro-Tip: The overlook provides a stunning view for grandparents who prefer to avoid the steep stairs, while the kids can enjoy a "burst of excitement" exploring the black sand below. Note: Reservations are now required for out-of-state visitors!
Wailua Falls (Mile Marker 45): One of Maui's most photographed waterfalls, visible right from the parking area with zero hiking required.
The Ohe’o Gulch (Seven Sacred Pools) is a masterpiece of natural engineering. While the pools are often closed for swimming due to safety, the paved Kuloa Point Trail offers an easy, half-mile loop that is perfect for strollers and grandparents to see the waterfalls meeting the ocean. We loved watching the Park Rangers—the ultimate 'helpers'—working to keep this beautiful, sacred area safe for families to enjoy.
Road to Hana Educational Adventure: Hiking and "Helper" Machines
Driving to the Kipahulu District of Haleakalā National Park is the ultimate reward at the end of the road. Here is how to handle the two very different experiences found here:
Haleakalā National Park (Pipiwai Trail + Bamboo Forest): This 4-mile round-trip hike is a world-schooling highlight featuring a massive banyan tree and a "Zen-like" bamboo forest.
The Skip-Gen Strategy: This is a perfect "Skip-Generation" opportunity. The trail can be muddy and steep, so let the grandparents enjoy a slow lunch at a nearby lookout or the visitor center while the parents take the kids on the hike.
Ohe’o Gulch (The Seven Sacred Pools): If you are looking for high-visual impact with low effort, this is your stop (pictured above).
Accessibility with Dignity: Unlike the Pipiwai Trail, the Kuloa Point Trail is a short, 0.5-mile loop that is much flatter and manageable for strollers or grandparents. It leads you right to the edge of the ocean to see the dramatic tiered pools.
The "Helper" Connection: While you explore, keep an eye out for the Park Rangers. Just like the team in our book series, The Trucks That Saved, these real-life helpers work around the clock—monitoring water levels and maintaining the trails—to keep the land and the families visiting it safe.
Ke’anae Arboretum (Mile Marker 16): A must-visit for a short, flat walk to see the famous Rainbow Eucalyptus trees.
See our full list of Road to Hana Stops for more!
Planning to visit other islands? Check out our Multi-Gen Guide to Oahu to see more real-life helper trucks at Pearl Harbor!
📸 Professional Maui Family Photos
Maui provides the perfect backdrop for family photos — think Christmas card “Mele Kalikimaka” vibes.
Our favorite local photographer, Tracy Leboe at Baby Hawaii Photography, is incredibly talented. She captures gorgeous maternity and family sessions. Be sure to book ahead of time — sessions fill quickly!
Maui Family Portraits taken by Baby Hawaii Photography
Don’t forget to print our favorite Coloring Pages to take on the plane!
🍽️ Best Kid Friendly Restaurants in Maui
Monkeypod is a very toddler friendly restaurant with crayons and free butter noodles for kids 3 and under. It also has great happy hour and my favorite Mai Tai! There are two locations on Maui - Kaaanapali and Wailea!
Barefoot Bar is a fun restaurant where you can eat with your toes in the sand! It is part of Hula Grill but has a separate entrance on the South side of the restaurant. They also have crayons and some good kid food options. Our kid claimed, “it was the best restaurant ever!”
The Ritz’s Burger Shack is a toddler approved restaurant located outside with a big grassy area for kids to run around. It’s also parent approved if you want to hang out and have a boozy milkshake or just watch the waves crash on the shore for a few minutes!
🧃 Easy Snacks for Kids in Maui (That Don’t Melt)
When you’re exploring Maui with kids, having the right snacks on hand can make all the difference. Between beach days, car rides, and long sightseeing stops, you’ll want options that hold up in warm weather and are easy for kids to eat on the go.
These parent-approved snacks travel well around the island and won’t melt or turn messy in your bag:
Gummies
Gummies are lightweight, easy to portion, and a favorite with kids of all ages. They’re ideal for beach bags, stroller pockets, and plane rides since they don’t melt like chocolate snacks.Fruit Snacks
Fruit snacks are great for quick snack breaks while sightseeing or driving around the island. Look for resealable packaging so you can spread snacks out throughout the day without waste.Pouches
Fruit and veggie pouches are especially helpful in Maui’s heat. They’re refreshing, mess-free, and easy for kids to eat while walking or riding in the car. Many are shelf-stable, so refrigeration isn’t an issue until they’re opened.
Love this idea but don’t want to pack all of this? I don’t blame you! Good news is that you can get these as soon as you land at the Target or Costco by the Maui OGG Airport!
💡 Parent Tip: Pack snacks in a small insulated pouch or shaded backpack pocket to keep them out of direct sun, especially during beach days or long drives.
We bring our Wagon instea of a Stroller
Traveling to Maui With Toddlers
Nap-friendly days
With toddlers down to one nap, we would try and get out early, because they were up early anyway, and make it back before naptime or time it where we would be in the car so they could nap. See our packing checklist for our sleep setup!
Stroller walks
There were a lot of stroller walks up and down Kaanapali beach when we had infants and toddlers! We would bring our beach wagon and put both toddlers in for a walk!
Pool days vs adventure days
We would typically alternate pool days and adventure days but most days involved a splash in the pool regardless.
We would even use a night swim as an incentive to eat their dinner.
What to skip with toddlers
The Road to Hana is great but is a longggg day for little ones. It’s essentially a 5 hour (or more) drive so you must plan accordingly to be on the road ALL day. You can break it up with stops but getting to the furthest point is a three hour drive straight there. Even the first stop from Kaanapali or Wailea is about a two hour drive. If you’re only in Maui for a few days this might be a good one to skip unless your kids are a bit older. If you’re pregnant and have nausea, don’t attempt it. I speak from experience.
Haleakala sunrises and sunsets are breathtaking, but don’t go with toddlers or younger.
Sunset cruises are fun but stressful with younger kids that like to run around.
Walking along the kid and stroller friendly Kapalua Coastal Walk in Maui
5-Day Maui Itinerary with Kids
Day 1 Arrival
12p Arrival into OGG, pick up rental car
1p stop at Target, Costco, then pick up Tin Roof
3p Check into Honua Kai Condo
4p 🛍️ Head to Whalers Village for shopping and dinner at Monkeypod (get extra food for fridge). Must order: Chicken Wings, Kalua Pork Pizza, Free Butter Noodles for kids, pie slices to go to eat in room after kids go to bed. Don’t forget to order the best Mai Tai on the island! All of this is on the Happy Hour menu!
6p Back to hotel for bedtime - Read The Trucks that Saved the Park for a sweet bedtime story
Day 2 Pool-time and Burgers
5a Kids wake up, make pancakes (and coffee) in room
7a Adult Breakfast pickup (or dine in) at Duke’s
8a Pool opens!
11a Back to room for lunch
12p Naptime
2:30p Drive to Ritz in Kapalua and have Linner at Burger Shack (it’s a big meal to fill up on). Must order: burger and milkshake
4p Explore Ritz and Kapalua or go to DT Fleming beach
6p Back to Hotel for Bedtime
Pipiwai Trail With Baby in Carrier
Day 3 Road to Hana Adventure
5:30a Kids wake up - make more pancakes for everyone (and another pot of coffee)
6:30a Drive the Road to Hana
8a Stretch legs at Banana Bread Stop
9a Arrive at Kīpahulu Visitor Center which is part of Haleakala National Park where you can explore the Oheo Gulch Pools, Pipiwai Trail (Bamboo Forest), and Waimoku Falls
11a Eat a packed lunch or drive to the Food Trucks in Hana
1p Stop at Wainapanapa Beach (Black Sand Beach) - make a reservation ahead of time.
3p Drive back to hotel
5p Dinner at hotel or pick up something on the way back
6p Bedtime
Day 4 - Pool and Luau
6a Kids wake up
7a Breakfast at Slappy Cakes or The Gazebo
8a Kapalua Bay for beach time, maybe try the coastal walk
11a Back to room for lunch
12p Naptime
2:30p Quick Pool Play
7p Bedtime
Day 5 - Last Swim and Depart
6:30a Kids Wake Up
7:30a Breakfast at Duke’s
8:30a Take turns with your partner packing
10:30a Drive to Airport (and cry the whole way)
Sticker Tape Road and Travel Magnatiles keep them entertained in the hotel room
What to Pack for Maui With Kids
I think giving a list of what not to pack is a shorter list because we bring almost everything! One thing I will advise is there is a Costco and a Target by the airport so make your Target order for pickup before your flight takes off so it’s ready for you when you land. You can always Instacart Costco or just head in for free snacks.
🏖️ Download our FREE Packing Checklist and below is a copy paste of what I packed for my 2 and 4-year-old on our last trip.
➡️ Shop our Toddler Packing Amazon list.
✈️ Carry-on List for the Plane
Personal Carry-on:
Toys & some books 📚
iPad
Headphones 🎧
Waterbottles
Wagon - We bring a wagon instead of a stroller these days now that the kids are older. Though we loved our travel stroller for when we had babies!
Snack Bag - Dedicated light weight backpack that folds up into a pouch
Pouches
That’s it bars
Pirate booty
Cereal Bars from Trader Joes
Bear Fruit Snacks
Gummies
Teddy Grahams
Here is the full list of everything else that scatters into checked bags:
Sleep
Inflatable beds
Sheets x 2
Blanket x 2
Small Toddler pillow
PJs
White noise / Hatch
Food Things
Food bag
Bowls 🥣
Baby Spoons 🥄
Bibs
Water cup/bottle
Milk cup
Sippy cup
Safe dish soap 🧼
Sandwich bags
Snack bowl
Travel and Misc
Car seat x 2
Car seat bags x 2
Swaddle
Clothes pins
Outlet covers
Beach bag
Beach blanket mat
Toiletries for Kids
Baby shampoo
Baby body wash
Soft Wash Cloths
Nail clippers
Brush
Kids Tylenol
Kids Sunscreen
Diaper rash cream
Baby Aquaphor/neosporin
Ear drops
Clothes and diapers
Sweatshirt for plane & Mainland airport travel
Socks
Shorts
Shirts
Swimwear
Swim diapers
Size 4 diapers
Pull ups
Overnight Diapers
Wipes
Hat
Multipurpose Sanitation wipes in ziplock bag
Toys and Entertainment - Shop our Toddler Packing Amazon list
Bath Toys - Cars 🚗
Books 📚 - Especially The Trucks that Saved the Park book 😘
Sand toys 🏖️
Football 🏈 - Water safe recommended for the pool!
Frisbee
Trucks 🛻
Cars 🚙
Sticker Road Tape
Plane toys - coloring book, sticker book
Cards 🃏
Travel Magnatiles
🛏️ Toddler Travel Sleep Hack (Game-Changer for Maui Trips!)
If you’re traveling to Maui with a toddler, let’s talk about sleep… because it can make or break your trip 😅
One of our absolute must-haves now is a toddler travel bed for hotel rooms, and I can’t recommend this enough.
Instead of trying to figure out where your toddler will sleep (or dealing with rolling out of a big hotel bed 🙃), this creates a cozy, familiar space just for them—no matter where you’re staying.
We’ve used this on our trips, and it makes bedtime SO much easier, especially after long beach days.
This toddler travel bed makes hotel sleep so much easier when traveling with kids.
How to Set Up a Toddler Travel Bed in a Hotel Room
Setting up a toddler travel bed in your hotel room is quick and easy—and makes bedtime so much smoother when traveling with kids.
Here’s how we do it:
• Inflate the toddler travel bed using the included pump (it takes less than a minute!)
• Add a twin bed sheet over the top to make it feel soft and familiar
• Layer with a blanket + their favorite stuffy for comfort
• Pack a toddler pillow — standard hotel pillows are usually too big and can be uncomfortable for little necks
This simple setup helps create a cozy, familiar sleep space—so your toddler can settle in easier, even in a brand new place
👉 You can see the exact one we use here: https://amzn.to/4bHtOv3
Why we love it:
• Perfect size for hotel rooms and condos
• Helps toddlers feel comfortable in a new space
• Easy to set up and pack
• Makes travel routines feel more like home
It’s one of those things you don’t think you need… until you use it once and never travel without it again!
Is Maui Worth It With Kids?
Yes—Maui is absolutely worth it with kids, especially for families traveling with toddlers and young children. The island offers calm, swimmable beaches, family-friendly resorts, walkable areas like Kā‘anapali, and activities that don’t require long drives or packed schedules. With the right balance of pool days, beach time, and nap-friendly outings, Maui is one of the easiest Hawaii islands to enjoy as a family. If you plan intentionally—choosing the right area to stay and skipping overly long excursions—Maui can be both relaxing and unforgettable with kids.
More Maui Posts:
Chilly Chic & Cabernet Ready: Your Ultimate Napa Winter Packing List (Mustard Season Edition!)
Think Napa is only for sundresses and rosé? Think again! Winter in the Valley—or 'Cabernet Season'—is a hidden gem of misty vineyard mornings, cozy fireside tastings, and the vibrant yellow Mustard Bloom. As a native Californian who’s explored Napa in every season, I’m sharing my tried-and-true packing secrets to help you stay effortlessly chic (even in 40-degree weather). From the secret to wearing skirts in the cold to the $18 rain boots that saved my trip, here is exactly how to master the 'Wine Country Chic' look this winter.
Wine Country Winter: The Ultimate Packing List for a Luxury Napa Getaway
Napa Winter Outfit Idea: Sweater. Skirt, Tights, and Booties
Forget everything you thought you knew about what to wear in Napa Valley. While everyone else is picturing sundresses and rosé, you, my smart traveler, are about to discover the absolute magic of Napa in winter! Think cozy firesides, fewer crowds, rich Cabernet Sauvignons, and vineyards painted vibrant yellow by wild mustard flowers. It’s gorgeous!
But here’s the thing: "winter in California" isn't quite what most travelers might imagine, spoken from a native Californian. It’s mild, yes, but it can also be misty, muddy, and surprisingly chilly. So, if you're dreaming of a sophisticated winter escape to wine country, the biggest question isn't which Cabernet to sip, but what in the world to pack?!
Don’t fret, sweet escapist! They say fourth time is a charm, so I’m practically a local! After visiting Napa multiple times, I've bundled up all my secrets, tried-and-tested tips, and "oops, wish I'd brought that" moments into your ultimate Napa Winter Packing List. Get ready to be effortlessly chic, perfectly comfortable, and totally prepared for everything from a misty morning vineyard stroll to a cozy Michelin-starred dinner.
Related Post: If you’re heading to Napa, check out our ULTIMATE NAPA TRAVEL GUIDE with hotel, winery, and restaurant recommendations!
Christmas outfit for Wine Tasting in Winter in Napa
The Golden Rules of Napa Winter Packing (Before We Dive In!):
Layers, Layers, Layers: This isn't just a suggestion; it's the law in Napa winter. Morning fog can give way to afternoon sun, only to drop sharply as dusk settles.
The Winter Reality: Temps in St. Helena/Yountville usually hover around 55°F during the day but drop to the high 30s at night. * Pro Tip: wine caves and barrel rooms are naturally chilled (around 55-60°F year-round), so layers are non-negotiable even if it feels sunny outside.
The Vibe: It’s not "red carpet" and it’s not "farmhand." It’s Wine Country Chic.
Comfortable Chic is Key: You'll be walking, standing, and potentially even getting a little muddy. No sacrificing comfort for style here!
Weather App is Your BFF: Always check the forecast a few days before you go, but remember rule #1 – layers will save you from any surprises.
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What’s in my suitcase Napa Winter edition
Your Essential Napa Winter Wardrobe: Look Fab, Feel Warm! Outerwear that Works (and Wows!):
The "Statement Coat": Since it’s Christmas, a classic wool wrap coat or a tailored trench is the hero of your photos.
My coat has a hood and is waterproof (hello, mist!), effortlessly chic, and perfect for layering over everything. It instantly elevates any outfit.
A Cozy Wool or Cashmere Wrap/Pashmina:
Why it's a must: Essential for those chilly wine cave tours (they’re usually around 55 degrees all year, but feel colder in winter!) and for adding an extra layer of warmth over dinner. Plus, it’s super stylish!
Planning your route? Check out Where to Stay, Sip, and Snack: A Curated 3-Day Winter Guide to Yountville & St. Helena!
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Tops & Bottoms: Smart & Stylish Layers
Long-Sleeve Blouses/Tops (1):
Why it's a must: Think silk blouses, fine-gauge knit tops, or elegant merino wool. They layer beautifully under sweaters or jackets.
Cashmere or Fine Knit Sweaters (2-3):
Why it's a must: For that ultimate cozy-chic vibe. Perfect for tasting rooms or a relaxed dinner.
Dark Wash Jeans (1-2 pairs):
Why it's a must: A well-fitting pair of dark jeans can absolutely be dressed up for wine tasting. Stick to slim or straight-leg styles.
Stylish Trousers (1 pair):
Why it's a must: Think wool blend, tailored wide-leg, or even a chic black ponte knit. Great for a nicer dinner or when you want a break from denim.
Midi Skirt or Dress (1):
Why it's a must: For a more feminine look. Pair with fleece-lined tights (your secret weapon!) and knee-high boots.
Fleece-Lined Leggings/Tights (1 pair):
Why it's a must: Trust me on this one! Wear them under skirts, dresses, or even under trousers on super cold (40 degrees) days. You'll thank me.
Shoes: Where Function Meets Fashion (Crucial for Winter!)
Waterproof Fashion Booties: Why it's a must: THIS IS YOUR MOST IMPORTANT SHOE. Vineyard paths can get muddy after winter rains, and you don’t want to ruin your favorite suede. Choose a comfortable pair with a block heel or flat.
Brands to look for: Blondo, Aquatalia, Sorel, or even a chic pair of Dr. Martens. Don’t judge my $18 rain boots from Target!
Comfortable Flats or Loafers:
Why it's a must: For indoor tastings, gallery browsing, or just giving your feet a break from boots.
Dressier Heels (Optional, 1 pair):
Why it's a must: If you’re planning a fancy dinner (like The French Laundry or Auberge du Soleil), bring one pair of comfortable block heels or wedges. I brought block booties. Leave the stilettos at home—Napa sidewalks are not kind!
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Winter Napa Outfit Idea: Gold Crossbody Kate Spade Bag, White sequin Sweater, pink Trousers, and black rain boots
| Location | The Vibe | Suggested Outfit |
|---|---|---|
| Downtown Yountville | Elevated & Chic | Trench coat, silk blouse, dark denim, and waterproof booties. |
| St. Helena Vineyard | Cozy & Rustic | Fine knit sweater, pashmina wrap, and those $18 rain boots! |
| Michelin Dinner | Pure Luxury | Midi skirt, fleece-lined tights, and block-heel booties. |
| Wine Cave Tour | Subterranean Chill | A heavy wrap or statement coat—it's 55°F in there! |
Accessories: The Finishing Touches
Warm Scarf & Gloves:
Why it's a must: For those crisp morning walks or when sipping wine outdoors on a chilly patio.
Crossbody Bag:
Why it's a must: Hands-free is the way to be for carrying your essentials, tasting notes, and phone.
Sunglasses:
Why it's a must: Even in winter, the California sun can be bright!
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Cozy quarter Zip on Arrival Travel DAy - Napa Winter Outfit Idea
Beyond the Clothes: Napa Winter Essentials
Portable Power Bank: You’ll be taking so many photos of the mustard fields!
Lip Balm & Moisturizer: The dry indoor heat and crisp outdoor air can be tough on skin.
Electrolyte Packets: For staying hydrated (and recovering from all that delicious wine!).
Travel Umbrella: Just in case! Better safe than soggy.
Reusable Water Bottle: Stay hydrated between tastings!
Wine Stain Remover Wipes (Optional, but Smart!): Shout Wipes or Wine Away are lifesavers for unexpected spills.
Airtags/Tile: If you're checking a bag or plan to ship wine home, these are brilliant for peace of mind.
What to LEAVE at Home (Especially in Winter!):
Open-Toe Shoes/Sandals: Unless you're strictly staying indoors, your toes will freeze and get dirty.
Light-Colored Suede Shoes: Mud and wine are not their friends.
Anything "Too Casual": Think gym clothes (unless you're actually going to a gym!), ripped tees, or overly worn sneakers for tasting rooms.
Stilettos: Save them for Vegas. Napa's charm is its relaxed elegance.
Beanies, gloves, etc. most wine tours and tastings are inside. We would walk from the car to the winery or restaurant and back. I wouldn’t waste the packing space for those unless you really want to hang outside for long periods of time.
Suitcase: Winter outfit packing essentials for wine tasting in Napa
Ready to Rock Napa's Winter Wonderland?
Packing for Napa in winter doesn't have to be a puzzle. With this list, you'll be prepared for any weather, looking effortlessly stylish, and ready to dive into the unique charm of Cabernet Season and the vibrant Mustard Bloom.
So, grab your trench, pack those booties, and get ready for an unforgettable, cozy, and delicious escape. Napa’s winter magic is calling!
Pin this post for your next Napa adventure!
What are your favorite winter packing tips? Share them in the comments below!
More Napa tips:
A Curated Christmas in Napa: A Luxury 3-Day Guide to St. Helena & Yountville
Forget the summer crowds—there is a secret, sparkling magic to Napa Valley in December that feels like stepping directly into a Hallmark movie. From waking up to vineyard views by your private fire pit at the Alila, to standing in awe of the 36-foot wine barrel Christmas tree at Beringer, this is the 'cozy season' at its absolute finest. Whether you’re chasing the legendary English muffins at Model Bakery or sipping Cabernet at a Michelin-starred lunch at Auberge du Soleil, St. Helena and Yountville offer a sophisticated holiday escape that truly shines once the vines go dormant. If you’re looking for the ultimate 40th birthday itinerary or simply the brightest town in California, here is how to spend a curated, festive three days in the heart of wine country.
Vines, Lights, and Luxury: Our Hallmark Movie Escape to St. Helena
We recently celebrated my 40th birthday just north of Napa in St. Helena and Yountville, and it was truly magical! Since my birthday is in December, the entire region was decorated for the holidays—it felt like walking onto a Hallmark movie set.
While many people flock to Napa in the summer or for Harvest Season, I wouldn’t trade this cozy, festive vibe for the world. The crowds are thinner, the vines are dormant (making way for the yellow mustard flowers!), and it’s much easier to snag reservations at luxury hotels and Michelin-starred restaurants.
Three days is the perfect amount of time to soak it all in. Here is our tried-and-true winter itinerary.
The Alila main building - front desk and restaurant
Day 1: Arrival and Fireside Luxury
Where to Stay: Alila Napa Valley
Address: 1915 Main St, St Helena, CA 94574
I actually teared up a little saying goodbye to our room at checkout. The Alila Napa Valley is the ultimate luxury retreat. Our balcony featured a private fire pit and a giant outdoor soaking tub with relaxing bath salts. The hotel's main building is a stunning Victorian, but the rooms are sleek, high-tech, and modern.
• Pro-Tip: This is a fantastic use of Hyatt Points if you’re a member!
Bath tub and fire pit on the Balcony of our Alila Hotel Room
Bouchon front Entrance in Yountville
Dinner: Bouchon (Yountville)
Address: 6534 Washington St, Yountville, CA 94599
This wasn't our first time at a Bouchon, but it was our first time at the Yountville location. Since Thomas Keller is a local, his restaurants operate with absolute perfection. Our waiter even offered to take photos of us by the Christmas decorations!
• Must-Haves: The roasted chicken, the Mac n Cheese (trust me), and the profiteroles.
Looking for the current Bouchon Napa menu and prices? Here's a photo of the dinner menu from our visit.
Bouchon Napa dinner menu and prices during our visit. Menu offerings included Steak Frites, French Onion Soup, Salmon, Mussels, Seafood Platters, and other French bistro favorites.
Model Bakery Breakfast: Latte and English Muffin
Day 2: Historic Vines & "The Brightest Town"
Breakfast: Model Bakery
This St. Helena staple has been around since 1908 and is world-famous for its English Muffins (Oprah’s favorite!).
• Insider Hack: We ordered via Uber Eats and had them delivered to our Alila balcony to eat by the fire pit. It’s the perfect way to skip the line at the shop or the even longer line at Bouchon Bakery.
The warm English muffin didn’t disappoint, especially after being smothered in butter and strawberry jam!
Christmas in the Beringer Wine Caves
Wine Tasting: Beringer Vineyards
Address: 2000 Main St, St Helena, CA 94574
Don’t let the grocery store labels fool you—Beringer’s estate wines are high-end, exclusive, and incredible. You can book a tasting in the Rhine House, which feels like a Victorian Christmas dream or the cozy caves are decorated with lights and Christmas trees. We opted for the cave tour where Corey was our tour guide and was fantastic!
• The Bridge: If you stay at the Alila, there is a private bridge that lets you walk right into the Beringer vineyards.
• Christmas tree made out of wine barrels: The Beringer wine barrel Christmas tree is not located on the Beringer property but it is setup off a side street in St. Helena. If you’re on 128 or Main Street you’ll see the setup on Hunt Avenue which is currently closed for the display. It’s across from Model Bakery which I recommend getting a peppermint latte and frosted sugar cookie to add even more Christmas spirit!
St. Helena Beringer Wine Barrel Christmas Tree near Napa - Main Street 128 and Hunt Ave
Brew Bus at Burgers and Half Bottles Pop-up in Napa
Lunch: Burgers and Half Bottles Pop-up
We were lucky to catch this seasonal Thomas Keller pop-up. The menu featured Wagyu burgers, lobster rolls, and fried chicken sandwiches paired with half-bottles of wine.
• The Vibe: Grab a "Pliney" from the VW Brew Bus and enjoy the casual, festive atmosphere.
Handwritten Wines Tasting Room in Yountville
The Afternoon Stroll & Tasting: Handwritten Wines
Walk off lunch by exploring the Yountville Art Walk, which is beautifully lit for the holidays. Then, head to Handwritten Wines for a boutique, intimate "Side by Side" tasting. It’s a wonderful contrast to the grand scale of Beringer.
Ciccio Pizza - pepperoni with Hot Honey
Dinner: Ciccio
Address: 6770 Washington St, Yountville, CA 94599
This spot is a local favorite. It has a cozy, lively, and unpretentious vibe that is perfect for a festive winter night out.
The pepperoni pizza with hot honey cannot be missed. It’s even good cold by the fire.
Day 3: The Grand Finale
Breakfast: Model Bakery (Part 2!)
We loved it so much we walked down St. Helena’s Main Street to visit in person. They have a much larger menu in-store.
• Must-Have: The Chipotle Breakfast Sandwich (egg, pepper jack, tomato, and chipotle aioli).
Model Bakery is decked out with Christmas Decorations in St Helena
Last Minute Shopping: Browse the festively decorated boutiques on Main Street in St. Helena.
In the middle of town you can find a festive 36-foot Wine Barrel Christmas Tree (a major photo op).
7 Wine Barrel Tree Fun Facts
109 Wine Barrels Stacked
Recycled Barrels Donated by Beringer Vineyards
10,500 Pounds - 36 Feet Tall
Earthquake Proof
800 Feet of Garland Used
Nearly 2600 Ornaments
St. Helena Chamber of Commerce Designed the Tree with JCD Atmospheric Studios
This Christmas tree made of Beringer wine barrels can be found in St. Helena on Hunt Ave off Main Street 128.
St. Helena Wine Barrel Christmas Tree near Napa Valley
Lunch: Auberge du Soleil
Address: 180 Rutherford Hill Rd, Rutherford, CA 94573
Even on a foggy day, the view of the valley is breathtaking. This Michelin Star Restaurant didn’t disappoint! It’s a 2 or 3 course menu, so naturally I picked a main and dessert.
• The Food: The short rib with Cabernet sauce is decadent, and the Valrhona Guanaja Chocolate Fondant with mint ice cream is a chocolate lover's dream.
Auberge du Soleil Desserts by the fire
Final Stop: Kollar Chocolates
Address: 6525 Washington St, Yountville, CA 94599
Before heading out, stop here for some edible art. Their truffles take three days to make and are incredibly intricate.
• Seasonal Treats: We loved the Peppermint Bark and the Chocolate Cinnamon truffle with the snowflake pattern.
Kollar Chocolates in Napa Valley (Yountville)
Wine Tasting in Bering Vineyards - Cave tour
4 Reasons to Visit Napa in December
1. The Christmas Spirit: Every winery decks the halls with massive wreaths and garlands.
2. The Lights: Yountville is officially the "Brightest Town in the Valley." Don't miss Bunny Foo Foo (the giant bunny statue) dressed as Rudolph at Hall Winery!
3. The Cozy Factor: Nothing beats tasting world-class Cabernet by a massive stone fireplace.
4. The Seasonal Flavors: You get access to winter-only treats like Kollar’s holiday truffles and Model Bakery’s seasonal cookies.
Please note this is not a sponsored post and based on my own personal experience, all thoughts are my own.
How about another sip! See all Napa related posts or check these out:
New Year’s Eve Lanterns in Chiang Mai: How It Works & What to Expect (video included)
Releasing lanterns in Chiang Mai on New Year’s Eve is a magical experience that often gets confused with the Yi Peng Lantern Festival. While Yi Peng takes place in November, locals and travelers also release lanterns throughout the city to celebrate New Year’s Eve in Thailand. This guide explains how New Year’s lantern releases in Chiang Mai work, where to go, what to expect, and how this experience differs from the official Yi Peng festival. Where to go and how to spend New Years in Chiang Mai #newyears #thailand #chiangmai
New Years Eve in Chiang Mai, Thailand
How to Release Floating Lanterns on New Year’s Eve in Chiang Mai, Thailand
We went to the RISE festival outside of Vegas a few years ago, lighting lanterns then floating them into the night sky. However, in Chiang Mai on New Year’s Eve, they take it to another level!
Releasing lanterns into the night sky is one of the most magical ways to celebrate New Year’s Eve in Chiang Mai, Thailand — but it’s also one of the most misunderstood experiences. When I first researched this years ago, I kept running into information about the Yi Peng Lantern Festival, which actually takes place in November, not on New Year’s Eve. It made planning confusing, and I wasn’t sure what to expect when December 31 rolled around.
In reality, New Year’s Eve lantern releases in Chiang Mai are a separate, informal tradition. Locals and travelers gather throughout the city to release lanterns as a way to welcome the New Year, make wishes, and let go of the past year. There’s no official festival, no tickets, and no set schedule — just a beautiful, spontaneous celebration.
This guide walks you through what it’s really like to release lanterns on New Year’s Eve in Chiang Mai, where to go, what to expect, and how this experience differs from the Yi Peng Festival, so you can plan your night with confidence.
Don’t forget to check out our video towards the bottom of the post! :)
📍 Location: Chiang Mai, Thailand
🎆 When: December 31 (New Year’s Eve)
🏮 Festival: Not Yi Peng (informal lantern releases)
🎟 Tickets Needed: No
🌱 Eco Tip: Use biodegradable lanterns or release one as a group
Tha Phae Gate Ancient City
Yi Peng vs New Year’s Eve Lantern Releases in Chiang Mai
Many travelers assume all lantern releases in Chiang Mai are part of the Yi Peng Lantern Festival, but this isn’t the case.
Yi Peng is a traditional lantern festival held in November, aligned with the Loy Krathong festival and Thailand’s lunar calendar. It includes official events, ticketed lantern releases, and cultural ceremonies.
New Year’s Eve lantern releases, on the other hand, are informal and celebratory. On December 31, locals and visitors release lanterns throughout Chiang Mai to welcome the New Year. While not an official festival, it’s still a magical experience and requires far less planning than Yi Peng.
Quick Comparison:
Yi Peng: November · official festival · ticketed events
New Year’s Eve: December 31 · informal lantern releases · no tickets required
This guide focuses specifically on releasing lanterns on New Year’s Eve in Chiang Mai, not the Yi Peng Festival.
RELATED: Book our favorite Viator Tour to see Chiang Mai - Doi Suthep Temple & Wat Pha Lat Hike
WHERE TO GO FOR NEW YEARS IN CHIANG MAI
Not only is it a party in the streets of Chiang Mai, but lanterns are released everywhere ALL night long!
After our long day with the elephants at the Elephant Nature Park Sanctuary, we took a nap to gear up for NYE! As I woke up around 7p the sun had set and lanterns were floating in the air! We stayed at the De Chai The Colonial Hotel (blog post review) and could start to see some lanterns in the distance, but needed to get in the action!
We made our way from our hotel to the Tha Phae Ancient City gate where we found a mob of people. On the other side of the gate, there was a street fair full of vendors selling food and other merchant goodies. May I recommend you arrive around 10:30p if you want to grab a spot near the gate.
Filled with wall to wall people and completely overcrowded, Rachadamnoen Road was completely shut down, packed like a fish swimming upstream!
Rachadamnoen Road New Years
Rachadamnoen Road CHiang Mai Vendors Glass blowing
Vendors sold all sorts of things: shirts, wallets, tchotchkes, food, jewelry, wood carved animals, you name it - they had it!
I couldn't stomach the street food and we ended up going to another restaurant near-by where we could watch the lanterns sail by.
RELATED: If you’re a foodie, try this tour Northern Flavours Chiang Mai Food Tour with 15+ Tastings
Rachadamnoen Road Street Food
Marketplace Chiang Mai New Years Eve Lanterns Floating
LANTERNS IN CHIANG MAI ON NEW YEARS EVE
WHERE TO GET A LANTERN IN CHIANG MAI
Lanterns were typically found in packs at random vendor carts, but we found a truck parked in an alley (it wasn’t as creepy as it sounds), that was selling lanterns 3 for 100 Baht.
PRO-TIP: A lighter is key! We bought one at a nearby 7-Eleven and glad we did, everyone was asking to borrow ours!
The Tha Phae Gate (ancient city gate) has the largest gathering of people who are setting off lanterns all over the place! We found a spot around 11:30pm and did a test lantern to make sure we would be pros by midnight!
As beautiful as they are, these lanterns are fueled by fire and can be dangerous. Be aware of your surroundings as so many people released them too soon, like this one that we caught (Yes, I am wearing elephant pants that I bought for $2!). Many lanterns ended up in trees and I am so glad nothing caught on fire or anyone got hurt.
SAFETY TIP: Always wait for the lantern to feel ‘heavy’ with hot air before letting go. If it’s sagging, it’s not ready and will likely crash into a tree or a person.
2025 Update: The Thai government has increasingly restricted lantern releases to specific zones and times to protect air traffic. Releasing them randomly near Tha Phae Gate is technically becoming more restricted. Mention that travelers should check for "Designated Release Zones" to avoid fines.
Related Post: See our FAVORITE hotel in Thailand, Cape Kudu Hotel
Catching lanterns
Safety Hazard Lanterns in trees
New Years Countdown
By the time midnight rolled around, we were ready to go. After you ignite the fuel bar, it takes about 3-5 minutes for these things to fill with air to take flight, we advise lighting around 11:55p to be ready by midnight!
The New Year countdown began... 5... 4... 3... 2... 1...
Lanterns light up Chiang Mai
Chiang Mai New Year’s Eve VIDEO:
See more videos in our Chiang Mai Story on Instagram
Amongst these beautiful lanterns, fireworks started to shoot off. I was officially in a Disney movie and the lost princess was saved (that is a Tangled reference with Rapunzel if you didn't catch that)!
Chiang Mai New Years Eve Lanterns and Fireworks
This night was truly breathtaking and one I'll never forget!
Like I said in the beginning, it was really hard to find info for Chiang Mai on New Year’s Eve. Leave a comment below if you have ANY questions!
Eco-Friendly Tips for Releasing Lanterns in Chiang Mai
While releasing lanterns on New Year’s Eve in Chiang Mai can be a beautiful experience, it’s important to be mindful of the environmental impact. Floating lanterns can create litter and may harm wildlife, livestock, and local ecosystems once they fall back to the ground.
If you choose to participate, consider these responsible travel tips:
Choose biodegradable lanterns made from bamboo and paper, and avoid lanterns with wire or metal frames.
Release one lantern as a group rather than multiple lanterns per person to reduce waste.
Follow local rules and safety guidance, as restrictions are often in place to protect both people and the environment.
Avoid releasing lanterns near farmland, water sources, or animals, where debris could cause harm.
Being a responsible traveler helps preserve Chiang Mai’s beauty and ensures this New Year’s Eve tradition can be enjoyed thoughtfully and respectfully for years to come.
New Year’s Eve Lanterns in Chiang Mai: FAQ
Is New Year’s Eve the Yi Peng Lantern Festival?
No. Yi Peng is not held on New Year’s Eve. Yi Peng is a traditional lantern festival that takes place in November and is tied to Thailand’s lunar calendar. Lantern releases on New Year’s Eve in Chiang Mai are informal celebrations and are not part of the official Yi Peng Festival.
Why do people release lanterns on New Year’s Eve in Chiang Mai?
On December 31, locals and visitors release lanterns to welcome the New Year, make wishes, and celebrate fresh beginnings. While it isn’t a formal festival, lantern releases have become a popular and meaningful New Year’s Eve tradition in Chiang Mai.
Do you need tickets to release lanterns on New Year’s Eve?
No. New Year’s Eve lantern releases do not require tickets. Unlike Yi Peng, there are no official events or organized ceremonies. People gather in public areas and release lanterns on their own.
Where can you release lanterns on New Year’s Eve in Chiang Mai?
Lanterns are commonly released in open areas around the city, especially near rivers, bridges, and large outdoor spaces. Availability and rules can vary each year, so it’s important to follow local guidance and safety regulations.
Is New Year’s Eve lantern releasing as crowded as Yi Peng?
No. Yi Peng is significantly more crowded due to ticketed events and international visitors. New Year’s Eve lantern releases are more casual and spread throughout the city, creating a less structured but still magical atmosphere.
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How Much Our Maui Trip Cost (Real Prices + What We’d Do Again)
Is Maui expensive? Here’s a real breakdown of how much our Maui trip cost, including flights, hotel, rental car, food, and activities. See what a mid-range Maui vacation actually costs and plan with confidence.
Room views from Papakea Resort - Maui, Hawaii
Is Maui Expensive? Here’s What Our Trip Actually Cost
Maui has a reputation for being expensive — and honestly, that reputation isn’t totally wrong. But after traveling to Maui for over a decade, we’ve learned exactly where the money goes, what’s worth the splurge, and what we’d happily skip next time.
In this post, we’re sharing what our Maui trip actually cost, broken down by flights, hotel, rental car, food, and activities. This isn’t a shoestring “budget Maui” guide — it’s a realistic, mid-range trip cost breakdown based on our personal experience.
If you’re wondering how much a Maui vacation really costs, whether it’s “worth it,” or how to plan your trip without constant sticker shock, this guide will give you a clear, honest picture before you book.
Is $2000 enough for a week in Hawaii? Scroll down for a full cost breakdown, plus what we’d change to spend more — or less — on a future trip.
💰 How Much Our Maui Trip Cost
Trip length: 5 nights
Travelers: 2 adults
Style: Mid-range (not budget, not luxury)
| Category | Cost |
|---|---|
| ✈️ Flights | $1035 |
| 🏨 Hotel | $1020 |
| 🚗 Rental Car | $375 |
| 🍽 Food & Drinks | $680 |
| 🎟 Activities | $467.90 |
| 🛍 Miscellaneous | $252 |
| Total Trip Cost | ~$4000 |
Average cost per day: ~$1000
Total cost per person: ~$2000
This Maui trip cost breakdown reflects real prices we paid and gives a realistic picture of what a mid-range Hawaii vacation costs.
Related Post: We have the ULTIMATE MAUI TRAVEL GUIDE - where to stay, best things to do and more!
Travel and Lodging Expenses
Getting to Maui can be a challenge depending on where you live. Luckily we fly direct from LAX to OGG.
Airline Ticket - United LAX-OGG roundtrip: $350 each (average)
Extra Legroom: $150 each
Checked Baggage: $35 (average price)
Total for air travel for the 2 of us: $1035
How to Save on Flights:
Use points! Chase Sapphire Card offers 1 to 1 points for miles on most airlines. Alaska Airlines Credit Cards also has a good companion pass offer, to purchase one ticket and your companion flies for $150.
Pack light! We didn’t end up checking our bags and brought two carry-ons instead. Don’t forget these PACKING ESSENTIALS
Where to Stay and How to Get Around
Car Rental (Jeep Wrangler): $375 for 5 days (including travel days)
You pretty much need a rental car since the island is so spread out. Uber is available, but not ideal for stops and getting around.
Condo Rental (tax and cleaning fee included): $170 night plus taxes and cleaning fee - $1020 for a 1 bedroom for 4 nights. $17 resort fee includes parking and WiFi
There are a variety of places to stay in Maui from 3-star to 5-star hotels or some sort of Airbnb/VRBO/vacation rental.
Total Travel and Lodging for 2 adults for 4 nights: $2545
Itinerary, Activities, and Food for 4 Days in Maui
There are SOO many ways to spend your days in Maui! We stay on LA time, so we typically go to bed around 9p and are up by 6a! Here’s how we spent the first 4 full days safely and socially distant as much as possible in Maui:
Day 1
7:00am: Uber to the airport $35
8:00am: Water at the airport - 2 large Dasani $7.78
8:30am: United flight departs LAX for Maui (OGG)
11:30am: Arrive in Maui; Pick-up Rental Car
12:30pm: Pick-up lunch from Tin Roof and eat along the beach
Tin Roof: 360 Papa Pl Ste 116, Kahului, HI 96732 Order ahead on website
Pork belly plate, chicken plate, babinga cake = $40
Beach: Papalaua Wayside Park Beach: 22 Honoapiilani Hwy, Wailuku, HI 96793 - Free parking along the beach
3:00pm: Check-in to hotel/condo
4:00pm: Grab snacks at Times Market- prosciutto, cheese, crackers, drinks - $35.18
5:30pm: Scuba dive - twilight and night dive with Extended Horizons $189/person with taxes $427.90 + $40 tip
We did a twilight and night dive with Dave at Black Rock and saw a ton of fish, lobsters, turtles, nudibranchs, and even a shark!
8:00pm: Eat leftover Tinroof for dinner
Total Day 1: $ 585.86
Related Post: Best Restaurants in Maui, Hawaii
Merriman’s Mai Tai
Day 2
7:00am: Breakfast at Java Jazz breakfast to go and eat at Honolua Bay overlook
Address: 3350 Lower Honoapiilani Rd, Lahaina, HI 96761
Call ahead to order - (808) 667-0787
Omelette with potatoes and bread, pancakes and bacon, juice = $38.55 +tip $45
8:30am: Hike Waihee Ridge Hiking Trail
Address: Kahekili Hwy, Wailuku, HI 96793
Drive along north shore to the trailhead. Parking is free but get there early for a good spot. The view stays pretty much the same as you hike up, you just are higher in elevation. It was a nice sunny hike that took us about 2 hours round trip, over 2 miles, and almost 1500 ft in elevation per my Apple Watch. Lots of parking, easy in and out, and porta-potties.
PACK: Drinking water, snacks, towels, hiking shoes
1:00pm: Pick-up lunch from Aloha Braised Food Truck on the way back from the hike!
Address: 58 Kupuohi St, Lahaina, HI 96761 *Only open on weekdays.
Get Volcano chicken plate and fries to share (since we’re having an early dinner) = $35
1:45pm: RELAX - swim in ocean/pool, read a book
4:30pm: Merriman's Kapalua dinner at sunset (check times for sunset and arrive an hour before)
Address: 1 Bay Club Pl, Lahaina, HI 96761
First come, first served. Get in line at 4:30p to get a table to watch the sunset or book a reservation ahead of time for their pre-fix menu in the open-air dining room. GET A MAI TAI!
Drinks, steaks, and dessert for 2 adults = $250
Total Day 2: $ 330.00
For just $3 get our Budget and Itinerary Template to plan your own Maui trip! Sample and packing list included!
Day 3
7:00am: Pick-up breakfast at The Bakery Lahaina $25
Address: 991 Limahana Pl, Lahaina, HI 96761
Just opened! Grab some donuts and pastries!
7:15am: Stop and get gas! There aren’t a lot of gas stations along the Road to Hana so fill up before you go. $30
8:00am: Drive along the ROAD TO HANA!
This is a FULL day activity! There are many options to choose from! See our post and try our Complete Road to Hana Guide for tips on the best stops, parking, food, lodging, and more! COMPLETE ROAD TO HANA GUIDE $7
Free to drive, but parking and some activities have costs. For two people, I’d budget approx $60 for parking, snack stops, and activities.
1:00pm: Stop for lunch in Hana Town, we like the food trucks, especially the burrito and shave ice trucks = $35
2:00pm: Continue along the Road to Hana Head back before it gets dark as the road isn't lit well at night.
7:00pm: Pick-up Dinner from Maui Brew Co
Address: 4405 HI-30 Ste 217, Lahaina, HI 96761
After a long day, you might want to call and order some food and brews to go to eat back at the room!
Chicken wings, nachos with pulled pork, 3 32 oz beers $75 + tip
Total Day 3: $ 250.00
For just $3 get our Budget and Itinerary Template to plan your own Maui trip! Sample and packing list included!
Kaanapali Beach by the Hyatt - Maui, Hawaii
Day 4
8:00am: Pick-up breakfast at Island Press Coffee
Address: 2580 Kekaa Dr STE 104, Lahaina, HI 96761
You can’t go wrong with an egg, cheese, and bacon croissant along with a Mac nut latte! They also have other croissant variations as well as other pastries (try the crumb cake). Take to eat on Kaanapali Beach! = $40
9:00am: Snorkel Black Rock
Address: 2605 Kaanapali Pkwy, Lahaina, HI 96761
Located in front of the Sheraton Resort, you can find turtles, sharks, octopuses, beautiful tropical fish along the reef on Black Rock. To be safe these days, you might want to bring your own. Buy a snorkel set on Amazon and send it to the hotel! Approx $45 per snorkel set = $90
1:30pm: Freshen up and have prosciutto, cheese, and crackers purchased from the market
1:45pm: Relax - swim in ocean/pool, read a book
5:30pm: Dinner at Sale Pepe (Best Italian food and pizza on Maui)
Address: 878 Front St #7,8, Lahaina, HI 96761
Order ahead online. We ordered 2 pizzas and a pasta dish and got 3 meals out of it for the 2 of us. Our favorite pizza was the Tomato, Fior di Latte, Red Onion, Pecorino, Maui Cattle Co. Meatballs Pizza = $65 (tip included)
Total Day 4: $ 195.00
Kaanapali Beach at Sunset - Maui, Hawaii
Travel Day
Depending on what time your flight leaves, you might have time for ONE more activity! Here’s a suggestion:
8:00am: Hawaiian Village Coffee
Address: 4405 HI-30, Lahaina, HI 96761
Pick-up coffee and some to-go breakfast foods = $30
8:30am: Quick Hike or Snorkel around Kapalua Bay
Address: Kapalua Coastal Trail, Lahaina, HI 96761
We're always so sad to leave but try and get one last hurrah in before our flight!
11:30am: Pick-up tacos for lunch at TaquerEATa Food Truck
I had the chicken fajita which was amazing! We also made a few build your own breakfast tacos with a combination of egg, cheese, bacon, and pork! There are lots of salsa options from mild to hot to complete your perfect taco. Total for 4 hearty tacos = $30. We took them to eat at a park along the beach!
11:35am: Get gas in the rental car while waiting for your tacos! $30 to fill up the tank.
2:30pm United flight departs Maui (OGG) for LAX
Pick-up food or snacks for flight; Charge electronics; Download movies to iPad
Total Travel Day: $ 90.00
Total for Trip for 2 (4 nights, 5 days): $3,839.86
For just $3 get our Budget and Itinerary Template to plan your own Maui trip! Sample and packing list included!
Ready to travel again? Book a trip to Maui, Hawaii! Not sure how much to save or what to bring? Plug in numbers to our excel budget template and calculate your trip for up to 4 nights and 5 days! Start planning your trip by entering info into our itinerary template so you’re guaranteed to have the perfect trip!
See our samples for safe, socially distant activities and restaurant ideas!
As a bonus, we’ve thrown in a packing list with some of our favorite items!
Still too expensive? Here are a few ways to save while in Maui:
Buy food, coffee, and beverages at the supermarket to make your own meals. Having a full kitchen at a condo is a plus!
Don’t rent a Jeep Wrangler - we love it, but it’s on the higher end for rentals. You’ll probably save on gas too!
Don’t check bags and don’t pay for extra legroom. Airline credit cards might give you benefits such as free bags or use points for the extra legroom upgrade.
Check out what your condo rental has - boogie boards, surfboards, snorkel gear, beach chairs, etc. They might even offer tennis, shuffleboard, cornhole, and other free resort activities.
Go for 3 nights, take the first flight in the morning for arrival into Maui, and a red-eye home! This gives you about 4 days and 3 nights, but that all depends on your flights, of course!
Please note this is not a sponsored post and based on my own personal experience, all thoughts are my own.
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How to Make a Sugar Cookie Gingerbread House (Recipe and Template included)
Tips, ideas, looks, and templates for making the perfect Sugar Cookie Confetti Gingerbread House with buttercream icing! Level is relatively easy for those who have some baking experience. Pink doors and kitty cats included!
Sugar Cookie Pink Gingerbread House
Tips for making the perfect Sugar Cookie Gingerbread House - Level: Pretty Easy
Want a gingerbread house that’s cute, sweet, and actually easy to build? This sugar-cookie gingerbread house is one of my favorite holiday traditions — simple to make, sturdy enough for decorating, and perfect for kids or beginners. In this guide, I’ll share the full recipe, step-by-step instructions, the exact tools I use, my best decorating tips, and troubleshooting tricks so your house comes out picture-perfect every time.
Whether you're hosting a Christmas cookie party or creating a cozy holiday moment at home, this sugar cookie gingerbread house is a festive project that everyone will love.
I wouldn’t call myself a baker, though I love to make cookies and cupcakes. My best friend, and realtor: Holly Patterson, had her annual Christmas Gingerbread House Contest and when I saw her post, I thought, “I wish I liked Gingerbread.” To go through all the trouble to make something I didn’t like seemed silly. That’s when I started the research. I can’t be the only one, someone must’ve tried this before! I found fancy houses and then I found Studio DIY. First off, I follow Kelly on Instagram and was inspired after reading her post. I went down a long rabbit hole of research and I was pretty pleased with the results! I was looking at recipes and ways to avoid going out to buy cream of tartar or molasses, things I never use. The good news, I didn’t have to go anywhere and had everything I needed in my pantry (my huge sprinkle collection finally came in handy)!
I didn’t even know where to begin, and started asking things like: how do you make the house shapes? Do you put the frosting on before or after you construct the gingerbread house? What design should I do? I then did what I do best, I made a Pinterest Gingerbread House Ideas board to collect my thoughts and inspiration. After I had my gameplan, I was ready to start!
Note: I keep calling it a Gingerbread house because you can use the template for a Sugar Cookie House or a Gingerbread House.
Looking for more sugar cookie house ideas beyond Christmas?
See our complete Sugar Cookie House Guide for easy builds, kid-friendly designs, and creative ideas for more holidays including Valentine’s Day, a Leprechaun Trap, a Bunny Cottage, Snoopy’s Dog House and more.
Get your FREE Printable Gingerbread House Template - CLICK HERE
Gingerbread House Template and Plan
Checkout fun children gifts like this cute fire station!
CHeck out our toy wishlist!
Looking for great Toddler gifts? Check out what my kiddos have on their wishlist for Christmas this year! Amazon WISHLIST LINK
Shop this Post:
Shop our favorite sugar cookie decorating tools and supplies on Amazon → My Favorite Baking Supplies List
Stand Mixer
Silicone Baking Mats
Cooling Racks
Rolling Pin
Parchment Paper Sheets
Cookie Cutter Set
Piping Bags + Tips
Edible Glitter Decorations
Holiday Sprinkles
Icing Scraper
Food Coloring Gel Pack
Gingerbread House Display Board
LED Fairylights (fun lights outside or inside!)
Gingerbread Sugar Cookie House Recipe
Plan ahead! I did a sketch and made my own template based on other templates I saw. I was worried the sugar cookie would be a little crumbly, so I made a smaller house by taking an inch off of every measurement in this Gingerbread House blueprint template. I followed the recipe from Better Homes & Gardens but tweaked it a little:
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Chill Time: 1 hour
Bake Time: 12–15 minutes
Total Time: ~2 hours
Yield: 1 Valentine’s Day sugar cookie house
Ingredients
2 cups butter, softened
1 1/4 cup sugar
2 tablespoons milk
2 teaspoons vanilla extract (I love Vanillas of the World)
4 ½ cups all-purpose flour
3/4 cup rainbow sprinkles
1 – 2 cup buttercream icing (see recipe in next section below)
Use a pizza cutter for those edges!
Directions - Sugar Cookie Dough That Holds Its Shape
Step 1 - Preheat oven to 325F.
Step 2 - In a large mixing bowl beat butter with an electric mixer on medium to high speed for 30 seconds. Add sugar; beat until combined, scraping sides of bowl occasionally. Beat in 1 tablespoon milk and 1 teaspoon vanilla at a time (2x each total). Beat in as much of the flour as you can with the mixer. With a wooden spoon (or cute spatula), stir in sprinkles and any remaining flour.
Step 3 - Divide dough in half. Cover and chill about 1 hour or until dough is easy to handle. You can refrigerate the cookie dough for up to 2 days. On large sheets of parchment paper or Silpat mats (less slippery) roll out dough portions to 1/8- to 1/4-inch thick. Lightly flour the top of the dough as necessary to keep it from sticking to the rolling pin. Pro Tip: I lined my cookie sheet with parchment paper so I could cut the excess dough and throw them in the oven!
Step 4 - Using my gingerbread house template, set pattern pieces on the dough; use a sharp knife (or roll a pizza slicer) to cut around each pattern piece. Remove excess dough. Remove pattern pieces; set aside.
Step 5 - Transfer dough cutouts on parchment paper to a large cookie sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for 12 to 15 minutes or until edges are lightly browned. Cool 2 minutes on pan. Remove to wire racks and cool completely. Use a knife (or pizza slicer) to cut edges evenly, if necessary. Use excess to make trees, snowmen, or gingerbread men shapes.
NOTE: Some of my pieces were pretty thick, so when I put them in the oven, I baked more on the 15-20 min side. It might have been too long because the edges were dry and would kinda crumble when I went to cut them evenly.
Step 6 - Decorate as desired with buttercream icing (see recipe below), candies, and decorative sprinkles. Refrigerate for 20 mins. Assemble cookie house, using buttercream icing as glue. Let stand until firm.
Cut the pieces to the size of the template.
The Trucks that Saved Christmas written by yours truly! The Trucks that Saved Christmas
I wrote a children’s book! My favorite thing to do is read with my boys. I love watching their faces light up as they laugh at a funny moment or learn a good life lesson along the way.
We read a lot of truck books around here — and my favorites are always the Christmas ones, of course! 🚒🎄
This year, I felt inspired to create one of our own. I’m beyond excited to share that I’ve written and published The Trucks that Saved Christmas, now available on Amazon! Also available on Barnes and Noble, Walmart, IngramSpark, and other retailers!
It’s a rhyming, heartwarming story about teamwork, friendship, and helping Santa when he needs it most — perfect for little readers who love trucks and holiday magic.
If you have a truck-loving kid (or know someone who does), I’d be so grateful if you checked it out, shared it, or added it to your holiday reading list.
🎁✨ Thank you for being so sweet and supporting this little Christmas dream of mine!
See more about The Trucks that Saved Christmas and other books on our Bookshelf page!
Best Frosting or Icing for Gingerbread House Construction
Royal Icing vs Buttercream Icing… I read you have to use Royal Icing to make pieces stick together. I love the taste of buttercream frosting so I thought I’d give it a try and use toothpicks if it didn’t work. Guess what, I didn’t need those toothpicks! After a week… it’s still standing!
Ingredients
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
3 teaspoons vanilla extract
4 cups confectioners' sugar, sifted if possible
1-2 tablespoons milk
Divide and add food coloring
Directions
Cream room temperature butter with a hand mixer, the paddle attachment of a stand mixer, or a wooden spoon until smooth and fluffy. Gradually beat in confectioners' sugar until fully incorporated. Beat in vanilla extract.
Pour in milk and beat for an additional 3-4 minutes. Add food coloring, if using, and beat for thirty seconds until smooth or until desired color is reached.
How to Make a Sugar Cookie Gingerbread House
Here’s my advice:
I used my frosting tip kit to help make it look more professional, but you can also cut a small hole in the corner of a plastic bag.
Here are a few icing tips and tricks I have found over the years:
Make sure frosting is not too soft and not too hard. It should have a little peak at the end if you dip a spoon in.
If you are making colors, make sure you set enough aside to use as glue for your house. You can always make white a different color but you can’t go back to white without making more!
After inserting the tip into your piping bag, place it in a pint glass or similar, then open the top of the bag and fold over the top of the glass to get the icing in.
I have a huge sprinkle collection which came in handy! The ManvsSprinkles shop on Amazon has some great options! I found some good sprinkles (especially holiday themed ones) from stores like Target, Home Goods, Ross, or TJ Maxx.
I refrigerated the decorated pieces for 20 mins after I had my design so they were a little more solid and the frosting would set a bit. This gave me time to clean up some of my mess and switch my frosting to a new bag so I could use a different tip for the icing to use as glue for the house assembly.
Pro Tip: Put the decorated pieces in the fridge for 20 mins to help the frosting set
Tips for Making a Sturdy Gingerbread House
I used soup cans to lean the pieces against while frosting the edges of my next piece. Once I had two pieces together, it was pretty solid so I was able to put all the pieces together without a side falling over.
Hold the pieces up with soup cans
How to Assemble the House Step by Step
Plan ahead and figure out where your house is going to live (because it is hard to move it)
Put parchment paper down or directly on the plate
Make an Icing base for the front of the house and stick it down. Lean it against the soup can.
Add frosting to the bottom of sides of the house and along the side that will connect to the front.
Carefully and gently push the side into place, do the same with the other side.
Line the bottom and sides of your back with frosting and connect to the house.
Let it set for 10 mins or so before applying the roof.
Smother the top of your house with frosting add one side of the roof and then connect the other. I put frosting in between the peak of the roof too.
I added more frosting to the corners to make it looks more smooth. Pro tip: Don’t use too much frosting on the roof or it will collapse!
And voilà:
Gingerbread House design idea - cat in the window
Back of Sugar Cookie Gingerbread house
See every angle of the Sugar Cookie Gingerbread house!
FAQ
Why did my gingerbread house collapse?
Usually the icing wasn’t fully dried or the pieces weren’t cut evenly. Make sure edges are straight and let the icing harden for at least 10–15 minutes before adding the roof.
Can I make the dough ahead?
Yes! Refrigerate up to 2 days or freeze up to 1 week.
Does this recipe work with gingerbread instead of sugar cookie dough?
It can, but sugar cookie dough is sturdier and less likely to spread.
How do I make my sugar cookie dough hold its shape?
Chill the dough for 30 minutes before rolling, and freeze the cut pieces for 10 minutes before baking.
What icing works best for building a gingerbread house?
Royal icing or “edible glue” is strongest. Buttercream tends to softens at room temperature but I like it because it tastes better.
How long will a sugar cookie gingerbread house last?
About 5–7 days at room temp, or up to 2 weeks if you’re keeping it for decoration only.
Can I make the pieces ahead?
Yes! Bake the pieces up to 2–3 days in advance and store in an airtight container.
Troubleshooting Your Gingerbread House
My dough cracked while rolling.
It’s too cold—knead slightly until smooth.
The pieces puffed or spread in the oven.
Freeze cut shapes before baking and avoid overmixing.
The roof keeps sliding off.
Add more icing to the top edge and let it dry longer before adding decorations.
My icing is too runny.
Add more powdered sugar 1 tablespoon at a time.
Let me know if you attempt to make this or if you like this post in the comments below!
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Cute Christmas Trucks, Free iPhone Wallpapers & a Holiday Book Your Kids Will Love
Get free cute Christmas wallpapers NEW 2025 for your iPhone featuring bright, festive trucks from my children’s holiday book The Trucks That Saved Christmas. Download December wallpapers, explore playful Christmas phone backgrounds, and discover a fun Christmas story perfect for toddlers and families.
Free Cute Christmas Wallpapers for iPhone + A Festive Kids’ Book You’ll Love
If your kids are anything like mine, there are two things that absolutely light them up during the holiday season:
Anything involving Christmas
Anything involving trucks
So naturally… I combined the two.
Yes — I wrote and self-published a truck-themed Christmas children’s book, and honestly? It’s been one of the most joyful, chaotic, candy-cane-fueled creative projects of my life.
And to celebrate, I’m giving away FREE Christmas iPhone wallpapers based on the adorable truck characters from the book!
(You’re welcome. Your lock screen is about to get 10x more festive.)
🚒 Meet the Trucks That Saved Christmas
My book The Trucks That Saved Christmas is a bright, silly, heartwarming story about a group of hardworking trucks who step up to save Christmas when things go hilariously sideways.
We’ve got:
A dump truck who is 90% enthusiasm and 10% “Uh oh, what did I just knock over?”
A firetruck who tries very hard to be the sensible one
A crane truck who always believes he can lift “just one more thing!”
A snow plow who takes his job very seriously
And a few more cheerful vehicles who refuse to let holiday chaos win
It’s perfect for little truck lovers, Christmas fans, and kids who giggle at puns (which… is all of them).
🎁 Free Cute Christmas Wallpapers for Your iPhone
Because I’m extra (and because my kids demanded it), I turned the artwork from the book into cute Christmas wallpapers you can use on your phone.
They’re bright.
They’re festive.
They’re truck-tastic.
And they’re totally free.
You'll find a bunch of them below — just press, hold, and save from your phone, or right-click on desktop.
Use them as:
✨ Lock screens
🎄 Home screens
🚗 A way for your toddler to say “MOM LOOK IT’S THE DUMP TRUCK!” every time your phone lights up
(You’re welcome in advance.)
Christmas Santa Truck iPhone background
Crane truck in front of ice cream shop in snow iPhone background
Cute Christmas Firetruck iPhone wallpaper
Santa and Reindeer Christmas December iphone Background
🌈 Why Free Wallpapers?
Pinterest recently exploded with a trend for Cute Christmas Wallpapers, and I thought…
Well hey… my trucks are cute. My trucks are Christmasy. And I definitely want in on this.
So now you get a whole bundle of Bright + Playfully Christmas wallpapers — featuring your favorite trucks and colorful holiday text overlays.
Feel free to share them, pin them, or set them as wallpaper on every device you own. Dress up your iPad. Decorate your Apple Watch. Go wild.
Santa loading presents in a dump truck christmas iPhone background
Cute Christmas Snowplow in front of bakery
Cute Christmas iphone Wallpaper - Firetruck Snow
📚 Want Even More Christmas Magic? Grab the Book!
If you (or your little one) love the wallpapers, you’ll really love getting to know the full cast of trucks inside the book.
You can find The Trucks That Saved Christmas right here:
👉 Link here for Amazon: https://amzn.to/48b4rBo
Also available on Barnes and Noble, Walmart, IngramSpark, and other retailers
It’s a perfect stocking stuffer, bedtime story, or “I need 10 minutes of toddler peace” emergency tool.
Cute Santa Christmas iPhone Background
🎅 Creating this book has been one of my favorite projects ever, and seeing kids light up when they meet the trucks makes my heart grow at least three sizes (Grinch-style).
I hope the free wallpapers sprinkle a little extra Christmas cheer onto your phone — and if you grab the book, I hope it becomes one of your family’s holiday favorites.
If you do download or share a wallpaper, tag me!
I LOVE seeing them in the wild. ❤️🎄🚒
Like this post?! Share it with everyone you know!
Must-Read Christmas Truck Stories for Toddlers & Preschoolers (Holiday Favorites 2025)
Christmas truck books bring together two things kids can’t get enough of—big machines and holiday magic. From cheerful dump trucks to hardworking diggers and glowing firetrucks, these festive stories deliver excitement, teamwork, and cozy Christmas charm on every page. Whether you're building a holiday book basket or searching for the perfect gift for a little truck lover, these Christmas truck books are sure to become treasured favorites year after year.
A festive Christmas scene beneath a decorated tree featuring the children’s book The Trucks That Saved Christmasdisplayed among holiday gift bags, twinkling lights, toy trucks, and cozy decorations. The setup creates a warm, gift-ready holiday atmosphere.
The Best Christmas Truck Books for Kids: Holiday Favorites for Little Truck Lovers
If you have a truck-obsessed child in your home, you already know: nothing lights up their eyes quite like a big, bold, colorful truck—especially when Christmas is involved. Holiday truck books have become a beloved sub-genre of children’s Christmas stories, blending festive cheer with vehicle fun, teamwork, and heartwarming lessons. Whether you're building a Christmas book basket, looking for a perfect stocking stuffer, or searching for a new bedtime favorite, this guide rounds up the best Christmas truck books that kids will want to read again and again.
Below are some top picks—ranging from classic holiday tales to newer favorites—along with what makes each book special and perfect for the season.
1. The Trucks That Saved Christmas
A New Instant Holiday Classic by an AMAZING author
If your child loves big trucks — dump trucks, excavators, firetrucks, snowplows, and more — this heartwarming story delivers festive magic in every page. When Christmas Eve takes a surprising turn, a group of hardworking trucks must band together to save the holiday. Packed with colorful illustrations, glowing Christmas lights, teamwork, and heroic vehicles, this book is perfect for toddlers, preschoolers, and early readers who adore all things trucks and Christmas.
Why kids love it: Bright illustrations, exciting truck action, and a feel-good ending that brings the whole town together.
I WROTE IT! See more information here: THE TRUCKS THAT SAVED CHRISTMAS
2. Construction Site: Merry and Bright
By Sherri Duskey Rinker
Fans of the “Goodnight, Goodnight, Construction Site” series will love this holiday board book featuring the familiar crew of hardworking vehicles. Each truck gets a cozy Christmas moment illuminated by twinkling lights.
Why kids love it: Familiar characters, simple rhymes, and festive construction-themed fun ANDDDD Lift-the-flaps!
3. Little Blue Truck’s Christmas
By Alice Schertle
A toddler favorite! Little Blue Truck delivers Christmas trees to all his animal friends in this counting-and-rhyming tale. The finale includes (literal) light-up holiday surprises.
Why kids love it: Flashing lights, animals, counting, and the lovable Little Blue Truck.
4. Where Do Diggers Celebrate Christmas?
By Brianna Caplan Sayres
Part of the bestselling “Where Do Diggers…” series, this book imagines a fun Christmas Eve for diggers, cranes, mixers, and more.
Why kids love it: Energetic illustrations, familiar machines, and cheerful holiday traditions.
5. Wreck the Halls
By Melinda Lee Rathjen
This playful and pun-filled Christmas board book follows an enthusiastic tow truck whose holiday spirit is a little toostrong. Determined to help its friends decorate, tow truck jumps into wrapping, hanging lights, and decking the halls — but every attempt leads to a hilarious holiday disaster. Even with all the chaos, the story delivers a sweet message: Christmas cheer isn’t about perfect decorations or fancy presents, but about the heart behind it all.
Why kids love it: Silly mishaps, construction-vehicle fun, bright illustrations, and tons of festive energy make this a standout pick for little truck lovers.
6. Santa’s Christmas Train
Perfect for kids who love both trains and trucks, this festive train ride takes readers on a magical trip to deliver presents. Not exactly trucks, but shares the same vehicle-themed charm!
Why kids love it: Holiday trains, classic Christmas imagery, and a fun rhythmic flow.
7. Bulldozer’s Christmas Dig
By Candace Fleming
Bulldozer has one job: help decorate the construction site! This sweet story celebrates giving, kindness, and the little ways we brighten the holidays for others.
Why kids love it: Cute bulldozer character, colorful illustrations, and a message of generosity.
Why Truck-Themed Christmas Books Are So Popular
Kids who love trucks often connect deeply with stories that mix action with holiday magic. These books:
✔ Spark imagination
✔ Feature teamwork and problem-solving
✔ Use bright, engaging illustrations
✔ Make reading time exciting during the holidays
✔ Are perfect for vehicle-obsessed toddlers and preschoolers
They also make wonderful Christmas gifts — easy to wrap, fun to re-read, and perfect to stick under the tree or inside a stocking.
Whether your child, or one you know, is into dump trucks, firetrucks, diggers, trains, or anything with wheels, Christmas truck books combine two things kids adore: the magic of the holidays and the excitement of big machines. Adding even one of these to your holiday reading list will make bedtime a little cozier and Christmas a whole lot brighter.
If you like this list, please share this to Pinterest or your favorite social media outlet.
Top Christmas Books for kids
I Wrote a Children’s Christmas Book!
Inspired by countless bedtime truck stories with my boys, The Trucks that Saved Christmas brings big engines and big hearts to Christmas Eve. When a snowstorm slows Santa down and the reindeer need to rest, the Truck Team revs up to help deliver the joy of Christmas night.
Book Cover of The Trucks that Saved Christmas for toddlers
I Wrote a Children’s Christmas Book About Trucks Saving Christmas
Are you surprised?! If you follow me on social media then you know how much I love Christmas and that this dream of mine to write a children’s Christmas book wasn’t too far fetched!
One of my favorite things in the world is reading with my boys. Whether it’s before bedtime, during a lazy Sunday morning, or while snuggled up on the couch after dinner, those moments are pure magic. I love watching their faces light up as they follow along with the story — laughing at the funny parts, pointing at the illustrations, and asking a million curious questions (especially from the younger one these days!). Reading together has always been our way of slowing down and connecting.
And like so many parents of young kids, I can tell you this: we read a lot of truck books. Big trucks, small trucks, trucks that dig, trucks that dump, trucks that save the day — you name it, we’ve read it (probably five times in a row). But my absolute favorites have always been the Christmas stories. There’s just something about that combination of holiday magic, cozy family time, and the joy of giving that makes a story extra special.
Seeing The Trucks That Saved Christmas in print for the first time — a proud author moment.
One night last year, as we were reading yet another truck book before bed, I found myself imagining what might happen if Santa’s reindeer couldn’t finish their route. Who would help him deliver all the gifts? What if — just maybe — a team of brave, hardworking trucks rolled in to save Christmas Eve?
That idea became the spark for The Trucks that Saved Christmas.
In the story, a snowstorm hits on Christmas Eve, and Santa’s reindeer grow too tired to fly. That’s when the Truck Team steps up. Dump Truck, Firetruck, Snowplow, Crane Truck, Tank Truck, and Excavator work together to clear the snow, light the way, and help Santa finish delivering presents. Through teamwork, kindness, and determination, the trucks remind us all that even when plans change, there’s always a way to make the magic happen.
Writing this book was such a joyful process. I wanted it to feel playful and rhythmic — a story that’s as fun to read aloud as it is meaningful. Each truck has its own role to play, and the rhymes are designed to capture that sing-song bounce that kids love to repeat. And while it’s a story about Christmas, it’s really about something deeper: teamwork, helping others, and believing that even small acts of kindness can make a big difference.
A children’s bookshelf featuring the picture book The Trucks That Saved Christmas displayed front-facing among other kids’ books. The festive cover shows smiling trucks helping Santa in a snowy village with a glowing Christmas tree. Below the shelf are colorful toddler toys and instruments, creating a cozy family reading space.
As a parent, I’ve seen how stories shape the way children see the world. When they read about characters who work together, solve problems, and care for one another, those lessons stick. And when those lessons come wrapped in the sparkle of Christmas lights and the rumble of truck engines, kids connect with them in a way that feels exciting and familiar.
My hope is that The Trucks that Saved Christmas becomes a story families look forward to sharing year after year — one that brings a little warmth, laughter, and togetherness to the holiday season.
If you have a truck-loving kid (or know someone who does), I’d be honored if you added it to your holiday reading list. It’s now available on Amazon in both paperback and Kindle editions. Also available on Barnes and Noble, Walmart, IngramSpark, and other retailers.
From my family to yours — merry reading, happy holidays, and may your Christmas be full of teamwork, laughter, and just a little bit of truck magic. 🚒🎁🎄
FAQ
Was this book written by AI?
No. The Trucks That Saved Christmas was written by me. The story, characters, and rhymes were created by hand with young readers in mind.
How were the illustrations created?
The illustrations began as original sketches and designs. Digital tools, including AI-assisted enhancements, were used to refine color, lighting, and details—similar to how illustrators use modern software today.
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10 Reasons Why Outrigger Honua Kai Resort & Spa is the Ultimate Maui Family Vacation Rental
We’ve stayed at nearly every type of accommodation in Maui over the last 10 years, and Outrigger Honua Kai Resort & Spa remains our favorite! Discover why this North Kaanapali property is the perfect choice for your next trip, offering the spacious luxury of a full VRBO/Airbnb condo—complete with kitchens and large lanais—alongside all the best resort amenities, like a massive pool area, direct beach access, and Duke's Beach House. Whether you're planning a trip for a large family or a couple's getaway, our detailed review covers everything you need to know before you book your stay at this incredible Maui gem.
Honua Kai Resort - The Maui Condo That Feels Like a Full Luxury Resort
Honua Kai Resort & Spa Review: The Maui Condo That Feels Like a Full Luxury Resort
With over 10 years of annual visits to Maui, Hawaii, and staying at a variety of places, Honua Kai Resort & Spa is our favorite place to stay! We’ve stayed there more than 5 times now, the first time was a month long stay before baby, the second stay was with baby and family (8 people in a 3 bedroom), in-laws and us with our 2 kiddos, and last few stays were just the 4 of us in a one bedroom. Looking for the best Airbnb or VRBO rental in Maui? Honua Kai is great for families, couples, or a friend-cation, it even accommodates large groups.
Honua Kai is a condominium resort complex on Ka'anapali Beach. The decision you need to make is whether to book a condo through the on-site property manager, Outrigger, or through an independent property management company or owner.
Where We Booked Our Honua Kai Stay
We booked our stay through Maui Resort Rentals, which manages many of the privately owned Condos at Honua Kai.
✔ Larger condo-style units
✔ Full kitchens (huge with kids)
✔ Ocean view options
✔ Access to all Honua Kai amenities
👉 Check availability here for Honua Kai Maui Resort Rentals We can find great prices, amazing units, and we love the amenities and service they provide! More on that below.
If you’re still deciding where to stay, our Ultimate Maui Travel Guide breaks down the best areas and resorts across the island.
The courtyard at Honua Kai in the evening — one of our favorite times of day to relax before dinner or sunset walks along Ka’anapali Beach.
Here are 10 excellent reasons why we would go back again and again…
3-Bedroom Condo at Honua Kai - Ocean Decor
The resort feeling is real!
The giant pool area, location next to the ocean, general store/smoothie/coffee shop, and spa on premises, makes a perfect vacation. Honestly, it felt like staying at a hotel except the room was a suite with a full kitchen, washer/dryer, but no housekeeping service. We don’t typically have our room made up anyway so it was perfect. If you want housekeeping daily you can book through Outrigger, you just won’t be able to pick which unit you want.
Honua Kai Resort & Spa is my favorite option when traveling with babies, toddlers, and or kids! Having a full kitchen and a washer and dryer is so handy as you never know what mess they’ll make!
Speaking of kids and toddlers, check out my top 10 things that I bring for every vacation with the kiddos! You won’t want to miss these toys or snacks in our Toddler Travel Post.
More Coastal Decor at Honua Kai Condo
2. Lots of room combos for any family size.
There are studios, 1 bedrooms, 2 bedrooms and 3 bedrooms. The 1 bedroom was perfect for us so I could work in one room and there was still somewhere for Josh to go watch TV or sit on the patio. We stayed in a 3 bedroom when Josh’s family met us in Maui, Room 351 is gorgeous with ocean views and has a cute coastal theme!
🧳 We booked through Maui Resort Rentals — you can check availability here.
We love booking through Maui Resort Rentals for great service and a great price. Be sure to consider what pool you may be visiting the most or if you want to be near stairs or elevators for convenience. You can also check out the views of each room on the website so you know exactly what you’ll be looking at (mountain or ocean view). They provide everything you’ll need for your stay and if you run out of something or if you find something isn’t right with your room, they quickly fix and provide wonderful service.
Honua Kai Bedroom 1
Honua Kai Bedroom 2
Honua Kai Bedroom 3
Room views from our Honua Kai 3 bedroom balcony
3. The patios at Honua Kai are amazing!
The patios are large and where we spent most of our time in our room when we weren’t sleeping! We had all meals out there and I even worked (WFH = Work From Hawaii) out there for most days. Depending on which side of the building you’re on, you might get a sunrise or sunset, or both! I enjoyed having coffee in the morning and watching the whales breach the surface. Whales are only seen late October-March.
October is also a relatively good month to book for less crowds and cheaper prices (compared to spring/summer)!
🏖️ See more great reasons to Visit Maui in October.
Outrigger Honua Kai Water Slide in Pool
4. The Pool!
The pool area at Honua Kai is like a resort, complete with water slide, lazy river type pool (it doesn’t really flow but you can walk/swim it), splash pad and 1/2 foot kiddie pools! Lots of chairs and areas to lounge poolside.
There are even servers that come by to bring drinks and food from Duke’s so you can have a Mai Tai and Hula Pie at the pool!
We rented a cabana that was big enough for our family party of 8 to hang out in. If you pick the right cabana, you can even have a private pool entrance!
Honua Kai has an Adults Only Pool
5. Beach Access
The beach is also right in front of the hotel and because we booked our room with Maui Resort Rentals, we had Tommy Bahama chairs and an umbrella provided in the room and ready to use.
Note: not all rooms have umbrellas.
There is a paved walking path that is just before the sand so that you can walk along to the neighboring properties or even all the way to Black Rock and Kaanapali! It’s about a mile and a half to Whaler’s Village.
Hoola Spa Closed at Outrigger Honua Kai in October 2025
6. The Spa!
It wouldn’t be called Honua Kai Resort & spa without the spa!
The Ho’ōla spa on premises was the perfect for my 90 minute massage! There aren’t a lot of bells and whistles to this place like Burke Williams, but you have a private room with an excellent massage therapist! They do have showers and lockers for your post relaxation needs.
2026 UPDATE: the Hoola Spa closed October 2025! I do recommend the Sheraton’s Spa!
7. Whaler’s General Store
Not only is there a convenience store but there are also baristas and smoothie-ologists. Ok, I made the smoothie-ologist word up, but they make good, fresh smoothies!
Their mac nut latte is the perfect start to any day (or afternoon)!
There was another coffee shop on the property but it closed about a year ago.
8. Gym
There’s also a really nice gym, though I prefer to go for a run out on the paved path along the beach!
9. Hotel Treatment
There is valet service, as well as bellhops, like a true resort. They are super helpful for guests or checking-in.
If you’re looking for adventure, there’s even a concierge to help you book excursions!
Hula Pie at Duke’s is a MUST have!
10. Duke’s Beach House Maui
Between the pool and the ocean you will find a famous restaurant called Duke’s!
Why is Duke’s so special? Well, of course it has to do with ice cream! The Hula Pie is a must - Macadamia nut ice cream with a cookie crust topped with fudge, whipped cream and more macadamia nuts!
They are open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner!
May I recommend the breakfast burrito and pork Benedict for breakfast!
See all of our Favorite Maui Restaurants that you don’t want to miss!
Aloha and Until Next Time
After all these years and all those different stays—from a romantic month-long trip to fun family reunions—it’s clear why Honua Kai Resort & Spa holds the top spot on our list of Maui accommodations. It truly offers the best of both worlds: the spacious convenience of a fully-equipped vacation rental paired with the luxurious amenities of a high-end resort. Whether you’re sipping coffee on the expansive patio while watching whales breach, floating near the epic pool complex, or enjoying a slice of Hula Pie at Duke's, Honua Kai Resort & Spa creates the kind of effortless, relaxing vacation that keeps you coming back for more. So, if you’re looking for a perfect home base for your next West Maui adventure, stop scrolling through listings and book your suite. We'll probably see you there!
Is Honua Kai Worth It?
If you’re:
✔ Traveling with kids
✔ Want space over a hotel room
✔ Prefer kitchens + laundry
✔ Love Ka’anapali Beach
Then yes — we’d absolutely stay here again.
👉 Check current pricing & availability
This is not a sponsored post, I genuinely like Honua Kai and Maui Resort Rentals. For the record, I like ice cream more.
10 Reasons the Best time of Year to Visit Maui is October
Planning your dream vacation to Maui? Looking for the best month to visit Maui? We swear by the perfect weather of October! This less crowded time of year is when prices are cheaper for flights and hotels, making it the ideal time to visit Maui. Enjoy crystal-clear snorkeling and easy diving in the warm, low 80s ocean water. Drive the Road to Hana with fewer tourists, or head up to Kula for the charming pumpkin patch. Plus, Whale Season kicks off—you might spot the very first humpback! Maui in October offers all the magic without the madness.
No Tricks, Just Treats: Why October is our Favorite Month to Visit Maui
Maui is our happy place and our favorite island in Hawaii. We got married there in October and have gone every year since 2014.
After over a dozen trips—yes, we're basically part-time locals—we've discovered that while Maui is wonderful year-round, October is when she puts on her most charming outfit.
Here are all the adorable, quirky, and outright excellent reasons why you should book your next Hawaiian escape for the spooky, sunny season!
Related Post: Planning a Maui vacation right now? Save our Ultimate Maui Travel Guide (2026) for easy reference while booking flights and hotels.
Maui in October is the best month to visit Maui, Hawaii
Kapalua Bay and the weather is beautiful in October
1. Elbow Room for Your Aloha Spirit
Not as crowded. Think of Maui's high season as a packed escalator—lots of beautiful people, but you're constantly bumping into someone's camera bag. October? It's like the escalator is moving at a leisurely pace, and you can actually stop to admire the view!
While the island doesn't exactly roll up its sidewalks, the sheer volume of visitors drops significantly from the summer frenzy and spring break rush. This means shorter lines for shave ice, an easier time snagging that perfect sunset table, and feeling like you have a little more personal beach bubble at your favorite snorkel spot. Your inner introvert will thank you!
2. Your Wallet Gets a Vacation, Too!
Prices are relatively cheaper! Let’s be honest: a trip to Maui isn't exactly a spontaneous Target run. However, traveling in the shoulder season of October is like finding a really good coupon code for paradise.
Flights tend to breathe a sigh of relief, room rates dip a delightful amount, and those pesky rental car prices aren't quite as aggressively priced as they are in March or July. While you'll still be paying for premium tropical bliss, you'll feel better knowing you scored a savvy deal. That little bit you save? Hello, extra mai tai!
Pink Hawaiian Sunset in Maui In October at Honua Kai
3. The Ocean is an Absolute Gem
Snorkeling is great! We’re not going to lie; we’ve had a few trips where a rogue storm decided to stir up the waters like a giant ocean blender. But typically, October offers up some of the clearest, most dazzling water days of the year.
The water temperature is wonderfully warm (more on that later!), and the visibility for spotting those brilliant Humuhumunukunukuāpuaʻa (say that five times fast!) is usually spectacular. It’s like the ocean decides to polish its windows just for the October crowd. Grab your mask and prepare to hang out with some very colorful neighbors.
Kula Farms LOVE sign - Maui in October
4. Pumpkin Patch with a View!
The pumpkin patch! Hold on, pumpkins in paradise? YES! Head up the slopes of Haleakalā to Kula and prepare for a view that will make your jaw drop. You can pick out a pumpkin with a sweeping, breathtaking view of the island, which is easily the most photogenic pumpkin patch in the world.
But the real, must-get, life-changing prize is the pumpkin bread at their general store. It is dense, moist, and tastes like a fluffy slice of autumnal heaven. It's the perfect quirky, non-traditional October treat that reminds you that Maui truly has everything.
5. The Great Whale Tease (and Promise!)
Whale Season starts! This one is pure quirky tragedy, but we've held onto hope for a decade! Every. Single. Time. we go, someone enthusiastically tells us, "Oh, you just missed the first whale of the season!" It's like Maui enjoys giving us a marine high-five followed by a gentle, ocean-sized slap in the face.
The migratory season for the majestic Humpbacks begins in late fall, and October is when those first few adventurous pioneers show up. Hopefully, you will be the lucky one who spots that first beautiful breach and can then, naturally, text us the news! (We'll try not to cry.)
6. The Weather Temp in Maui is Perfection
The best time of year to visit Maui island in October is because the weather is perfect. Forget the sweltering heat of August. October in Maui is that glorious, just-right temperature that makes you realize you were born to wear shorts and a lightweight linen shirt. While Maui is generally 79°F–89°F year-round, October seems to settle comfortably into the low 80s/high 70s, which is our version of atmospheric bliss.
And remember that warm ocean we mentioned? It stays so toasty that you can leave the bulky dive gear at home. The water is your second skin, and that, my friends, is pure vacation luxury.
7. The Road to Hana is a Dream Drive
Road to Hana is a great drive! If you've been hesitant about this iconic, winding drive, October is your time. The weather is generally sunny, the slight dip in crowds makes it easier to pause at those waterfall-laden stops.
Fewer cars means less stress and more time to truly soak in the bamboo forests, the black sand beach, and the sheer, stunning lushness of the eastern coastline. (Want to tackle the drive? Check out our complete Road to Hana guide here: https://www.thesweetestescapes.com/blog/best-stops-on-the-road-to-hana-maui-hawaii-with-map
8. A Hint of Holiday Sparkle!
Some Christmas decorations come out! Okay, we know it's only October, but if you love that tiny, early dose of holiday cheer, you'll catch a glimpse of it here. In late October, some stores start to put out a few festive touches. Seeing a Christmas lei or a string of lights twinkling against a backdrop of palm trees is the sweetest, most charming kind of holiday collision.
Pumpkin Crunch Ice Cream at Island Cream Co in October in Maui
9. Pumpkin Crunch Ice Cream
Yup, couldn’t make it through a post without mentioning ice cream! At Island Cream Co, you must try their Pumpkin Crunch ice cream! It’s filled with pumpkin, cinnamon crumbles and roasted pecans! That says fall to me!
10. Maui Halloween Events
There are many Halloween events in Maui! Cannery Mall in Lahaina has activities and Trick or treating day of Halloween!
2025 events include Imua Keiki Halloween Festival at the Maui Arts & Cultural Center, a Halloween party at da Playground Maui, and the second edition of FUZZ FEST titled MUTATED MAYHEM!
The Hyatt Regency in Maui is hosting a Haunted House and Halloween movie night on Oct 30 and 31!
The Shops at Wailea -
Sunday, October 26 from 3-7pm at The Shops at Wailea Center-Wide Trick Or Treating | 3-7pm Participating merchants will be marked with balloons. Balloon Animals | 3-5pm Located in the Middle Valley in front of Rip Curl. Magic Show with Brenton Keith | 3:30 - 4:30pm A local favorite
Whaler’s Village in Kaanapali also has a movie night, activities, and trick or treating!
Speaking of kids and toddlers, check out my top 10 things that I bring for every vacation with the kiddos! You won’t want to miss these toys or snacks: https://www.thesweetestescapes.com/blog/10-things-toddler-travel
So there you have it! Maui in October is an absolute dream—a little less busy, a little more budget-friendly, and all the gorgeousness you expect from the Valley Isle. Trust us, it’s the Goldilocks month for Hawaiian travel: just right.
Best month to visit maui is in October
Have you ever visited Maui in the fall? Share your favorite memory in the comments below!
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10 Must-Have Road Trip Essentials for Happy Toddlers
Navigating the open road with a toddler can feel less like a scenic drive and more like a high-stakes, full-contact sport. Forget the tranquil hum of the engine; you're more likely to be serenaded by a chorus of "Are we there yet?" and the frantic search for a rest stop with a decent playground. But fear not, brave navigators! I've spent countless miles perfecting the art of the toddler-friendly road trip, and I'm here to share my quirky, tried-and-true survival guide.
My secret weapon? A pre-packed arsenal of sanity-saving essentials that never leave my car. First up, snacks, glorious snacks! This one's a no-brainer, but when you're hurtling down the highway, these morsels become more crucial than your GPS. My go-tos include That’s It bars, a brilliant way to sneak in some fruit; Go Go Squeeze Pouches for mess-free slurping joy; and, of course, the ever-reliable Goldfish crackers, which have the magical ability to avert a meltdown in seconds. To slow down the snack-gobbling process, I always pack snack pack containers—they're a sneaky way to work on those fine motor skills while keeping the crumb-pocalypse at bay.
But what about when the snacks run out? That's when I deploy my next secret weapon: reusable sticker books. I swear these are enchanted. I've found that each one buys me at least 15 minutes of blissful quiet—that's enough time to listen to an entire song without interruption! And for the inevitable screen time, a headrest-mounted iPad holder is a game-changer. It means less neck craning for your tiny passengers and more hands-free time for you to, you know, eat your own snacks in peace.
Toddler Road Trip Hacks: Keep Your Little Ones Happy on the Go
Traveling is an adventure, but hitting the open road with a toddler (or two!) can feel like a full-contact sport. Forget serene scenery – think snack negotiations, endless choruses of "Are we there yet?", and the frantic search for a rest stop. But fear not, brave navigators! I've mastered the art of the toddler-friendly road trip, and I'm sharing my top 10 quirky must-haves that never leave my car.
Shop our sanity-saving list on Amazon: https://amzn.to/446NDIp
Our real-life kids road trip packing setup before a family vacation — snacks, books, clothes, swim essentials, and toddler travel must-haves all organized and ready to go.
Our Real-Life Kids Road Trip Packing Setup
Before every family road trip, I lay everything out on the bed so I can quickly see what we still need before loading the car. It helps keep us organized, avoids overpacking, and makes travel days so much smoother with toddlers and young kids.
For longer vacations or beach destinations, I use our full Hawaii Kids Packing List to make sure we don’t forget the essentials.
In this setup, we packed:
extra outfits + pajamas
swim diapers and wipes
road trip snacks and pouches
favorite bedtime books
activity books and truck toys
portable toddler bed rails
beach towels and swimwear
easy grab-and-go zip bags for outfits
One of my favorite travel mom hacks? I pack full kid outfits into vacuum bags, then flatten them with my torso before sealing. It saves a surprising amount of suitcase space and keeps everything organized for busy vacation days. I may sound crazy but don’t knock it ‘til you’ve tried it! See the video at the bottom of the post!
1. Snacks, Glorious Snacks (The Fuel of Tiny Conquerors)
This one's a no-brainer, but when you're hurtling down the highway, snacks become more crucial than your GPS. Seriously.
Here are my favorite non-refrigerated, meltdown-averting morsels:
That’s It bars: Fruit in disguise! OUR FAVORITE!
Bear Fruit Snacks: Because bears are cute, and so are happy toddlers.
Go Go Squeeze Pouches: Less mess, more slurping joy.
Crackers: Teething crackers (for gnawing on), Ritz or Wheat Thins (for sophisticated crunching), Goldfish (for the inevitable "one more, please!").
Dried Fruit: Nature's candy, minus the sticky fingers (mostly).
Teddy Grahams: Tiny bears, big smiles.
2. No Spill Snack Pack Containers (The Anti-Hoarding Device)
These little wonders are game-changers. They slow down the snack-gobbling process, preventing your little ones from stuffing their faces like they haven't eaten in a week. Plus, it's a sneaky way to work on those fine motor skills. Score!
3. Reusable Sticker Books (The Quiet Time Whisperers)
I swear these sticker books are enchanted. I snagged a six-pack, and each one bought me at least 15 minutes of blissful quiet. That's like, an entire podcast episode, people!
We also have this cute Bluey Set.
We also have a Sticker Collection book so that stickers don’t end up on walls or furniture!
4. iPad Holder (Your Personal Entertainment Concierge)
Because sometimes, a screen is your best friend. An iPad holder that attaches to the headrest means less neck craning for your tiny passengers and more hands-free time for you (to, you know, eat your own snacks).
5. Flash Cards (The Interactive Distraction)
Forget just looking at pictures! These flashcards are your secret weapon for impromptu car games. Think "I Spy" with animals, "20 Questions" about colors, or a scavenger hunt for letters. If they get it right, a Teddy Graham or Goldfish awaits! It's educational bribery at its finest.
6. Books (The Timeless Tranquilizers)
Even in the age of screens, a good old-fashioned book is a lifesaver.
I pack touch-and-feel books for my younger adventurer (who mostly just touches every page anyway).
For my older tot, it's all about Spidey books, the Little Blue Truck, The Trucks that Saved series or anything Disney - the look and find series is great because there is a small story and a where’s Waldo type game to it!
See more book ideas HERE
7. Inflatable Race Car Bed or Slumberpod (Your Mobile Sleep Sanctuary)
Okay, so this isn't for the car ride itself, but for your destination! If your crib-dweller can sleep in a pack-n-play, the Slumberpod is your new best friend. It’s a blackout tent that cocoons the pack-n-play, letting your littles sleep longer and allowing you to move around the room without becoming a giant, interesting distraction.
I borrowed an inflatable Race Car bed from my sister and have now used it more than she has, taking it all over the place. I thought my littles were going to pop it, but it’s surprisingly durable. It's compact and easy to inflate/deflate – a true throwback to my '90s blow-up furniture days! It even comes with a pump and plug for the wall or cigarette lighter!
2026 Update: Since we now have 2 small children to travel with, we found more compact, smaller beds that take up less space in the suitcase! Try the Ragalo Inflatable Toddler Bed, see our video below!
Don't forget, you’ll also need:
Toddler Bed Fitted Sheet (bring two just in case, toddlers are messy!)
Best Toddler Travel Bed we don’t leave home without! Try the Regalo Toddler Inflatable bed
8. Magnetic Tile Travel Set (The Genius Builder)
I’ve yet to meet a toddler who isn't mesmerized by Magnatiles. I found a travel-friendly version from Picasso Tiles on sale, which only comes out for vacations. And for when they inevitably get bored, I introduce the little magnetic cars for a quick switch-up.
Good news is, they also work with most magnet tiles so you can slip extras in there or you can use the minis when not on vacation.
9. Cars and Road Tape (The Portable Highway)
This Road Tape is like painter's tape with a highway printed on it! It was perfect for rolling their smaller cars up and down.
We love the V-Tech Go Go Smart Wheels cars which are also great in the car because they light up, play short songs, and make noise (in a good way, not an annoying way… usually).
10. White Noise and Nightlight (The Dream Weavers)
Yes, our Hatch (our white noise machine/nightlight) isn't exactly "portable" in the traditional sense, but it’s a non-negotiable for our toddlers' sleep routine. I just swaddle it in clothes like a precious cargo to keep it safe. White noise is a lifesaver for drowning out new hotel sounds and creating a familiar sleep environment.
Some extras goodies that we pack for kids for EVERY trip:
For a family of 4 (including 2 toddlers at almost 2 and 3.5 years old), we packed:
3 duffles- we love the Eddie Bauer duffle that compacts into a small bag when you’re not using them
Duffle #1 - toddlers’ clothes, diapers, shoes, toys, etc.
Duffle #2 - My clothes and hub’s clothes
Duffle #3 - toddler bumper for bed, you can use pillows but we had free bags we could check. Sometimes we bring the race car blow-up bed
2 personal bags (however, mine was toy overflow) - Picasso Magnet Mini tile travel set, Go Dog Go board book, trucks, Pixar Cars bath toys, Reusable Sticker books, and Crayola Mess Free Coloring books.
Insulated Snack bag - filled with PB&J sandwiches, That’s It Bars, Bear Fruit Rolls
Wagon - We use a wagon instead of our stroller, since both tots are getting older, but we do LOVE this travel stroller
Favorite space saving hack! Try these Vacuum bags to save 40% more space!
Don’t forget to grab a Crossword Puzzle for nap time! This is our FAVORITE puzzle! Travel terms and countries! https://amzn.to/4lVixuR It keeps my mind working and gives me a list of places to add to our bucket list!
See our full list on Amazon.com!
So there you have it, fellow parents! With this arsenal of quirky essentials, you're not just driving; you're conquering the open road, one happy toddler moment at a time. What are your go-to road trip hacks for little ones?
Please note this is not a sponsored post and based on my own personal experience, all thoughts are my own.
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:
Here are a few more toddler travel tips:
100+ Ice Cream Quotes and Holidays, Fun Ice Cream Jokes and Silly Ice Cream Puns!
Find all ice cream and sweet related holidays and download our FREE printable ice cream calendar! I’ve also collected some great ice cream quotes, along with fun ice cream jokes, as well as silly ice cream puns! I HAD to include movie quotes and memorable ice cream scenes. As a bonus, I’m throwing in some great ice cream song and lyrics!
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 Ice Cream Amazon Shopping list!
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 on 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
See the full Ice Cream Playlist on Amazon.
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]
Fun Ice cream book stories for kids, toddlers, and babies
Best Kids Ice Cream Books
Exciting storybooks and plush toys about ice cream trucks and bunnies, perfect for little ones who love vehicles and sweet treats!
If I Drove an Ice Cream Truck--by the Cat in the Hat - OUR FAVORITE
Pete the Cat Screams for Ice Cream! - we love Pete the Cat
Curious George and the Ice Cream Surprise - we also love Curious George
The Little Ice Cream Truck - cute truck series
The Trucks that Saved the Park - ends with an Ice Cream celebration
Ice Cream Larry - cute book about a polar bear who likes ice cream
I Like You More Than Ice Cream - Finger Puppet Board Book (great for babies or baby showers!)
Coral Cuties Ice Cream Scoop - Counting Board book that comes with a stuffed bunny
🛍️ Shop these ice cream books on Amazon: Ice Cream Book List
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More ice cream related posts:
50+ Places to Celebrate and Get FREE Ice Cream or National Ice Cream Day Deals 2025
July is national ice cream month and National Ice Cream Day is Sunday, July 20th, 2025! See where you can celebrate with FREE ice cream and deals at a scoop shop near you or even free delivery! We’ll update this post all month, so keep coming back! Find deals for national ice cream day at your favorite places like Baskin-Robbins, Dairy Queen, Jeni’s, and Coldstone! Hooray for Ice cream deals on National Ice Cream Day!
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
Ready for a hotel stay that's equal parts grown-up zen and toddler-approved fun? We're spilling all the tea (and Nespresso!) on the InterContinental the Clement Monterey. From surprisingly spacious rooms with secret zen gardens to a jellyfish-inspired lobby staircase and a prime location next to the Monterey Bay Aquarium, find out why this hotel is a family favorite for all the quirky, comfy reasons. Get ready for gourmet breakfasts, gigantic bathrooms, and just enough space to stash your emergency juice boxes!
InterContinental the Clement Monterey by IHG Entrance and Valet
InterContinental Clement Monterey: Where Grown-Up Zen Meets Toddler-Friendly Fun!
Address: 750 Cannery Row, Monterey, CA 93940
Remember those glorious, kid-free days when you'd waltz into a swanky hotel, sip fancy cocktails, and just exist? Yeah, neither do I. But fear not, fellow parent warriors! We recently revisited the InterContinental the Clement Monterey by IHG – first as carefree adults, and then as a tag-team duo with two energetic toddlers in tow. And guess what? Both experiences were pure magic! (Well, as magical as it gets when you're traveling with tiny humans.)
The Clement Monterey Bridge over cannery row
Location, Location, Location: Where Everything's Practically at Your Fingertips!
If you're all about convenience (and who isn't when wrangling little ones?), the Clement Monterey's location is practically a superhero! Nestled right on the breathtaking Monterey Bay, this elegant hotel is literally a two-minute stroll from the bustling charm of Cannery Row, where you can find everything from quirky shops to delicious eateries. Feeling a bit more adventurous? Fisherman's Wharf, with its clam chowder delights and barking sea lions, is just a mile away.And for those who dream of pristine greens and ocean views, the iconic Pebble Beach Golf Links is a mere six miles down the road. But the real cherry on top for families? You're literally steps away from the magnificent Monterey Bay Aquarium! Prepare for your tiny marine biologists to lose their minds (in the best possible way, of course).
Fireplace and orchids in Lobby at the Clement Monterey
The Lobby: Where Grandeur Meets Giggle-Inducing Details
First impressions? The lobby at the Clement Monterey is a whole vibe. The check-in desk is conveniently tucked away with the elevators just across the hall (super handy for the hotel hosts, but also for you when your toddlers are doing their "let's push all the buttons" routine). But the real magic happens just around the corner.
There's this absolutely gorgeous area with a cozy fireplace and comfy couches. It's the perfect spot to sip your Nespresso (from your room, naturally) and watch the water, patiently wait for your significant other to finally emerge from the bathroom, or even, as we discovered, have an impromptu pizza party with your tiny humans!
Off the lobby was a patio with tables and chairs, some even had firepits, AND best of all…CORNHOLE! It was entertainment for at least 20 minutes and a place for the kiddos to run around. We even saw whales in the distance and otters below the deck.
Outdoor patio Monterey Bay view
But my absolute favorite part of the entire hotel? The staircase just off the back of the lobby. It's a total showstopper! Inspired by the nearby aquarium, there's this incredible fixture that looks like a giant jellyfish gracefully changing colors. And with the shimmering lights, you genuinely feel like you're underwater. It's quirky, it's mesmerizing, and it's definitely worth a photo op (or three!).
Undersea scape Light art staircase at the InterContinental Clement MONTerey Bay
Your Room: Where Spaciousness Meets Serenity (Seriously!)
Spacious Gust Rooms at the Intercontinental Monterey Bay
Prepare to have your mind (and your claustrophobia) blown! The guest rooms here are so ridiculously spacious, you could probably host a small-scale toddler dance party without anyone tripping over furniture. Those high ceilings and massive windows aren't just for show; they let in all the good vibes and keep those "walls closing in" feelings at bay. Some rooms even have fireplaces!
And then there's the zen corner. No, really. They've got a tiny bonsai tree and a little Zen sand garden to help you achieve peak relaxation. Because after a day of chasing toddlers, who doesn't need a moment of inner peace? Plus, the fridge/mini-bar is just big enough to stash a few emergency juice boxes or that leftover gourmet burrito you snuck from breakfast. Priorities, right?
Nespresso Machine in Monterey Bay IHG Hotel Room!
But my absolute favorite touch? The Nespresso machine! Look, I love my Keurig, but a Nespresso in a hotel room? That's next-level adulting. Say goodbye to sad, watery hotel coffee and hello to liquid gold that'll help you conquer another day of toddler adventures.
Ginormous Bathroom at the Clement Monterey Bay
Shower in Monterey Bay Intercontinental
Oh, and the bathroom? It's ginormous! We're talking separate shower and a tub big enough to actually soak in (if your kids ever let you). And the towels were large bath sheets and felt like brand-new, fluffy, warm hugs after a long day. Most hotel towels are stiff and small. The body products smell delightful without making you feel like you just bathed in a perfume factory.
Mini Bar and Fridge
Mini Bar & Fridge: A Treasure Chest (Mostly) for Your Tiny Treasures
Alright, let's talk mini bar. In a world full of sad, empty hotel fridges, the Clement Monterey decided to be different. They actually had snacks and drinks! (Gasp!) Now, don't get me wrong, it's not a full-blown grocery store, but there was enough wiggle room to stash a few of your own emergency juice boxes or, you know, that leftover gourmet burrito from breakfast. Because priorities.
The Outdoor Pool at the Monterey Bay InterContinental
Pool & Fitness: More Like a (Very Pretty) Pond and a Spa for Grown-Ups!
Okay, let's be honest, the "pool" is more like a charming, oversized fountain that could comfortably fit about four adults (or, let's be real, two adults and a handful of splashy toddlers). But hey, it's pretty AND WARM! It's located on the second floor, right across from the fitness center, which means you can pretend you're going to work out, then sneak over to the pool for a quick dip instead. The spa, however, is a different story – it's big enough for six adults to soak their worries away. Just imagine!
The Spa at the InterContinental Monterey Bay
The C Restaurant Dining Room
The C Restaurant + Bar: Where Tiny Hands Meet Gourmet Delights
This place is seriously cute and upscale, with stunning views overlooking the bay. We hit them up for both breakfast and dinner, and let me tell you, everything was delicious! Beyond the typical breakfast fare, they've got some intriguing seafood breakfast options and a gourmet breakfast burrito that'll make your taste buds sing.
And for the little ones? They have a kids' menu! My tiny food critics devoured their pancakes – four fluffy, palm-sized pancakes each. Because apparently, little hands need big pancake portions.
Now, for the main event: dessert. Because, of course, we had dessert. We indulged in the Milk & Honey Toast ($18), which was basically buttery brioche, dreamy milk ice cream, crunchy honeycomb candy, and a dollop of strawberry guava jam. And then there was The Chocolate Bar ($18), a decadent symphony of chocolate ganache, peanut butter crunch, salted caramel, sesame brittle, and a sprinkle of Maldon Salt. Did I take pictures of them in the bathroom because the tots were finally sleeping? You bet your sweet tooth I did!
The Chocolate Bar ($18), a decadent symphony of chocolate ganache, peanut butter crunch, salted caramel, sesame brittle, and a sprinkle of Maldon Salt
Milk & Honey Toast ($18), buttery brioche, dreamy milk ice cream, crunchy honeycomb candy, and a dollop of strawberry guava jam
There is also a full spa if you want to get your massage on. Mama didn’t have time this trip, but next time will be a different story. Hubs can play Pebble Beach as long as Mom gets a spa day!
So, whether you're looking for a peaceful escape or a fun-filled family adventure, the InterContinental the Clement Monterey manages to pull off both with quirky charm and undeniable comfort. Ready to book your next Bay Area escape?
We ALWAYS find THE BEST rates through Booking.com. See deals of up to 50% off! You can save a bunch of money if you book a bundle flight+room+rental car! They even have apartments, lodges, and houses you can rent, just like AirBnB or VRBO! By booking through this link, I receive a commission at no additional cost to you! PLEASE support our blog and bookmark this link!
The back of the hotel
See more Northern California posts:
Where to (and where not to) watch Fireworks on the 4th of July in Marina del Rey, California
Get the best tips for watching 4th of July fireworks in Marina del Rey, CA! Discover ideal viewing spots, where to park, and how to navigate street closures. Avoid the crowds and find hidden gems for a spectacular Independence Day celebration. Your guide to a fun and stress-free Fourth in Marina del Rey!
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:
The Ritz-Carlton, Marina del Rey
Marina del Rey Marriott
Marina del Rey Hotel
Jamaica Bay Inn
Hotel MdR Marina del Rey - a DoubleTree by Hilton
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:
Packing Checklist and Must Haves for Traveling with a Baby 2026
Traveling with a baby? What should I pack? What do I need? Here’s everything you need when traveling with a baby from strollers that fit in an overheard compartment to the best travel bed to get babies to sleep in hotel rooms!
Baby Travel Essentials
Make Traveling with a Baby Easier in 2026
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 you during nap time! This is our FAVORITE puzzle —> Travel terms and countries — 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.
Don’t forget to grab this sweet bedtime story about trucks working together to save a park and the animal community!
Related post: See all things need for baby from birth to 12 months in this Baby Must Haves List
Deuter Baby Carrier for hikes
Best Baby Carrier
We have several baby carriers that all have their own purposes. However, we have 2 specifically for travel:
For hikes and outdoorsy events, we like the Deuter Kid Comfort Active carrier. It weighs just over 5 pounds by itself and is perfect for carrying around your precious cargo. Baby’s first trip was when he was 9 months old and about 20 pounds and it holds up to 35 pounds which is the size of a 4 year old. Its an odd size so it’s a little harder to pack than our other carriers. The benefit is that it has pockets and space for your stuff, so you can carry other things in the carrier such as water bottles or snacks!
If you’re looking for something smaller and compact, we also have the Infantino Flip Advanced 4-in-1 Carrier which is convertible where you can have baby face-in and face-out or wear front and back for newborns and older babies 8-32 lbs. It’s super lightweight and very breathable.
Infantino Baby Carrier
Baby Toiletries and Amenities
I pack the following in a toiletry bag:
Baby shampoo and soap
Tylenol + syringe
Baby Comb
Vitamin D
Saline spray
Baby lotion
Baby Sunscreen
Some I have in travel size, others I fill a 3 oz travel bottle. Hotels might have a baby proofing amenity on request, but if you have a crawler or walker, I recommend bringing a handful of outlet covers.
Also, request a fridge ahead of time or when checking-in to your hotel.
In my diaper bag, I always have multipurpose wipes in a Ziploc bag, good to wipe down plane seat areas, table or high chairs at restaurant, toys, etc. I pack an extra baggie of them on trips.
Shop our Amazon list for all these things in one place!
Beach and Pool Travel Gear
If you’re heading to a beach destination, I recommend a few things:
Shade tent - having fun in the sun is great but shade is even better! We liked the COMMOUDS Large Pop Up Beach Tent with UPF 50+ beach sun shade including a carry bag! It’s lightweight is great for 3 people with some room for baby to run around. It is a pop up tent with screen windows (that can also close up) which compacts into a small bag weighing only 2 pounds. There are stakes and bags for sand bags to anchor the tent.
Beach blanket - this is great to have just in general. We like the HIHOHO Beach Blanket Sandproof, Lager 82" X79" and use it at the park or any lawn, really. It has pockets in the corner to fill with sand or rocks or even heavier toys and stakes to anchor. It’s machine washable too!
Related post: See all things need for baby from birth to 12 months in this Baby Must Haves List
Please note this is not a sponsored post and based on my own personal experience, all thoughts are my own.
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5 Best Snorkel Spots (and swim with turtles) in Maui, Hawaii - Video included!
Ready to discover the best of Maui's vibrant ocean? Our ultimate guide reveals the top 5 snorkel spots where you can glide alongside colorful fish and even swim with Hawaiian Green Sea Turtles! From the gentle waters of Kapalua Bay, perfect for beginners, to the thriving reefs of Molokini Crater with visibility up to 200 feet, we've got your underwater adventure covered.
We'll share insider tips on where to find the clearest water, what marine life to look for, and even how to check the Maui Snorkel Report for ideal conditions. Plus, don't miss our exclusive video that brings these incredible reefs to life right on your screen! Get ready to explore Black Rock, Honolua Bay, and the famous Turtle Town. Your unforgettable Maui snorkeling experience starts here!
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.
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8 Delicious Mai Tai's you must try in Maui, Hawaii!
We love Mai Tais, especially in Maui! Check out our favorite places to indulge this delightful Hawaiian tropical drink! What makes the best Mai Tai? Find out in our post!
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! 😃
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Guide: Honolulu, Hawaii - What to do and Where to go on Oahu
Oahu is great whether you’re traveling with your family, significant other, or friends! Want to hang with Mickey Mouse in a Hawaiian shirt? Aulani's your jam. Fancy a wild encounter? The Honolulu Zoo's got you covered. Prefer underwater adventures? Dive into the Waikiki Aquarium and say "Aloha" to the colorful reef fish. Feeling a bit more historical? Hike Diamond Head for panoramic views or take a poignant trip to Pearl Harbor. And because no Hawaiian adventure is complete without a sweet treat, we'll point you in the direction of some seriously epic ice cream spots (because calories don't count on vacation, right?). So, ditch the mainland worries, grab your flip-flops, and get ready for an Oahu adventure that’s as diverse as it is delightful!
Updated April 27, 2026
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.
Disney’s Aulani: The Ultimate Blue Health Hub
Ko Olina (where Aulani is located) is the "Blue Health" capital of Oahu because of its calm, man-made lagoons.
Why Ko Olina is the Best "Blue Health" Escape for Families
Accessibility with Dignity: The lagoons feature flat, paved walking paths that connect the resorts, perfect for a sunset stroll with a stroller and grandparents.
The Experience: Science shows that the calm, rhythmic sounds of these lagoons promote "Blue Health" by reducing sensory overload for kids—and stress for parents.
Multi-Gen Pro-Tip: Aulani’s "Aunty’s Beach House" is a perfect Skip-Gen tool. While the kids are engaged in supervised play, grandparents and parents can enjoy a quiet lunch at ’AMA’AMA overlooking the blue water.
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!
If you loved the Blue Health lagoons in Ko Olina, you won't want to miss the restorative Road to Hana stops on Maui!
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
World-Schooling at Pearl Harbor: An Educational Adventure Guide
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.
Finding the ultimate "helper machine!" The Curtiss P-40 Warhawk at the Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum is a massive world-schooling hit. While I look starstruck here, our kids loved seeing how this plane helped keep the island safe, which provided a natural connection to the themes of teamwork and cooperation in our children’s book series, The Trucks That Saved.
The "Helper" Machines: STEM and History at the Aviation Museum
As the kids see the original rescue vehicles, firetrucks, and transport planes at the Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum, it's the perfect time to read from the series, The Trucks That Saved. It helps them bridge the gap between historical heroes and the 'helpers' they see in their everyday lives."
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.
How to Experience Pearl Harbor with Kids and Seniors
The Shared Experience: The USS Missouri (Mighty Mo) is incredibly visual for kids and has elevator access for seniors, making it a high-impact "Middle Ground" stop.
The "Helper" Moment: As you tour the Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum, point out the rescue vehicles and transport trucks.
Just like in The Trucks That Saved, these massive machines worked together to help the community when they were needed most. It’s a great real-world example of the teamwork themes we explore in our stories.
Pearl Harbor famous statue
A Few Extra Tips for Your Visit:
Dress respectfully: This is a place of remembrance, so dress appropriately.
Arrive early: Especially if you don't have advance reservations for the Arizona Memorial.
Allow ample time: There's a lot to see and absorb, so don't rush your visit.
Be prepared for emotions: Pearl Harbor is a powerful and moving experience. It's okay to feel a range of emotions during your visit.
Visiting Pearl Harbor is more than just a sightseeing trip; it's a pilgrimage to a place of immense historical significance. It's a chance to honor the lives lost, learn from the past, and reflect on the importance of peace. Aloha!
Wild Times in Waikiki: 5 Reasons to Go Wild for the Honolulu Zoo & Dive into the Waikiki Aquarium
Honolulu Zoo and Aquarium
When you think of Honolulu, images of sun-kissed beaches, surfing, and maybe a Mai Tai or two probably spring to mind. But nestled amongst the vibrant energy of Waikiki are two fantastic attractions that offer a different kind of island adventure: the Honolulu Zoo and the Waikiki Aquarium. And guess what? I'm here to tell you why you should totally add them to your itinerary!
Honolulu Zoo: Where the Wild Things Roam (Just Steps from the Beach!)
Forget dusty old zoos; the Honolulu Zoo is a tropical oasis teeming with exotic animals and lush greenery, just a stone's throw from the famous Waikiki shoreline. Here are five reasons why it's worth a visit:
See Amazing Animals You Won't See at Home (Unless You Live in Africa): From majestic lions and playful orangutans to graceful giraffes and quirky Komodo dragons, the Honolulu Zoo is home to a diverse collection of animals from around the world. It's a fantastic opportunity to see these creatures up close and learn about their unique habitats and behaviors. Plus, they have a fantastic collection of native Hawaiian species!
It's a Lush Escape from the City Buzz: Waikiki can be a whirlwind of activity, but the zoo offers a tranquil escape. Stroll through beautifully landscaped gardens, listen to the sounds of nature, and enjoy a peaceful break from the hustle and bustle. It's like stepping into a mini-jungle in the heart of the city.
Perfect for Families (and Kids at Heart): Whether you're traveling with little ones or simply embrace your inner child, the Honolulu Zoo is a fun and engaging experience for all ages. There are interactive exhibits, educational programs, and plenty of opportunities to get up close with the animals.
Support Conservation Efforts: By visiting the Honolulu Zoo, you're contributing to their important conservation work. They're actively involved in breeding programs for endangered species and educating the public about the importance of protecting wildlife and their habitats.
It's Surprisingly Affordable: Compared to other attractions in Waikiki, the Honolulu Zoo offers a great value for your money. It's a fun and enriching experience that won't break the bank.
Bonus Dive: Waikiki Aquarium - Under the Sea, Darling, It's Better Down Where It's Wetter! (couldn’t resist, I love the Little Mermaid)
Just a short walk from the zoo, you can plunge into the underwater world at the Waikiki Aquarium, the second oldest public aquarium in the United States. Here's why you should make a splash:
Discover Hawaii's Unique Marine Life: The Waikiki Aquarium focuses on showcasing the incredible diversity of marine life found in Hawaiian waters. From colorful reef fish and majestic sea turtles to fascinating jellyfish and endangered Hawaiian monk seals, you'll get a glimpse into the vibrant underwater ecosystems that surround the islands.
Get Up Close and Personal with Coral Reefs: The aquarium has stunning coral reef exhibits that allow you to see these delicate ecosystems up close. Learn about the importance of coral reefs and the threats they face.
It's Educational and Engaging: The Waikiki Aquarium offers informative exhibits and programs that are both educational and entertaining. It's a great way to learn about marine conservation and the importance of protecting our oceans.
So, next time you're in Honolulu, don't just stick to the beach (though that's definitely a must-do too!). Take a walk on the wild side at the Honolulu Zoo and dive into the depths of the Waikiki Aquarium. You might just discover a whole new side to the island paradise.
Though we LOVE Maui, I have enjoyed Oahu, a magical island where you can hike volcanic craters, surf legendary waves, snorkel with sea turtles, stuff your face with plate lunch, and maybe even spot a celebrity or two (just try not to stare at Mickey at Aulani). From the bustling city vibes of Honolulu to the laid-back surf towns of the North Shore, Oahu has something for everyone. Whether you're a thrill-seeking adventurer, a beachMaui-bum extraordinaire, a history buff, or just someone who really, really likes pineapples, you're guaranteed to have a blast. Now go forth, explore, and remember to pack your sunscreen, your sense of adventure, and maybe an extra pair of stretchy pants for all that delicious Hawaiian food. Aloha and happy exploring!
See our shopping list (with some great budget-friendly dresses and tons of Hawaiian outfit ideas) straight from Amazon: Hawaii Packing Essentials
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