15 Best Restaurants with great views in Maui, Hawaii - with map! 2026 Update

Sheraton Maui Entrance

10 Best Restaurants in Maui, Hawaii (Local Favorites & Must-Try Spots) Map included for 2026

UPDATED: January 9, 2026

Maui isn’t just a paradise for surfers and sunset chasers — it’s a dream destination for food lovers, too. From casual beach-side breakfasts to elegant dinners with ocean views, this island’s dining scene is as diverse and delicious as its landscapes. Whether you’re craving fresh seafood plucked straight from Hawaiian waters, local twists on classic comfort food, or unforgettable fine dining experiences, Maui delivers unforgettable meals that are every bit as memorable as its beaches and sunsets. After years of visiting and eating our way around the island, we’ve rounded up the 15 best restaurants in Maui — the spots we always return to and that we think you’ll love too.

We’ve been to Maui every year since 2013, so we know a thing or two about the island. We try and find new restaurants but we have a handful that we keep going back to! Here is a great list of where to eat in Maui, Hawaii! See some of the best restaurants on the island, sorted by area, and noted by price.

There are a few restaurants that were lost due to the 2023 Maui fire but I’m going to keep them on this list in hopes they open a new location. I have made a note if their current status as of January 9, 2026.

Related Posts: How to Spend 4 Days in Maui - Complete Itinerary

Here is a map of the best restaurants in Maui made with the Wanderlog Travel Planner, so you can follow along, add to your Google Maps account, or create your own personal map! Wanderlog allows you to create great maps and guides for any vacation! 

Map courtesy of Wanderlog travel planner

 See our list of what to pack for your next Maui vacay here: Hawaii Packing Essentials

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Where to Eat in Kahului, Maui (Near airport)

Kahului is often seen as a quick stop for the airport or shopping, but it’s also home to some of Maui’s best local food spots. From casual counter-service restaurants to longtime local favorites, Kahului is where you’ll find authentic flavors, generous portions, and some of the island’s best value meals. If you’re looking to eat like a local—or want a great meal without the resort prices—Kahului is well worth a stop.

Tin Roof Maui ($)

Location: 360 PAPA PLACE STE Y, KAHULUI, HI, 96732

Closed on Sundays!

When landing in Maui, hunger hits. You've been on a plane forever. Pick up your rental car and drive 5 mins to Tin Roof! It's not a sit-down service restaurant (no liquor license) but excellent Hawaiian cuisine. 

Per their website: TIN ROOF is a new generation mom & pop shop, owned by Internationally recognized Chef Sheldon Simeon & his wife, Janice. Raised in Hilo, Hawaii rain is a part of everyday life. Farmers markets keep buzzing, errands roll along, and garage kani ka pila never ends.

I loved their steak bowl - chopped flat iron steak wok-fried with garlic & scallion bottoms & topped off with ginger scallion pesto, served over rice & with a side of our daily banchan. Josh ordered the Sheldon Stay Hungry Special with pork belly and garlic noodles. It was the perfect quick meal after our long flight. 

Don’t skip out on dessert! Try the Chocolate Birthday Bibingka Cake 🌈💗🎂 filled with ube, chocolate, peanut butter, sprinkles, and pop rocks!

There isn’t a place to sit, so pick it up and take it to enjoy on the beach!

• 🍽 Best for: Lunch or Dinner

• 🕒 Best time to go: Happy Hour

• 👶 Kid-friendly? Yes

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10 Best Restaurants Near Kaanapali, Lahaina, and Kapalua (North West Shore)

The North West Shore of Maui—home to Kaanapali, Lahaina, and Kapalua—offers some of the island’s most scenic and memorable dining experiences. From oceanfront restaurants perfect for sunset dinners to casual spots ideal for families staying near the resorts, this area is packed with must-try places to eat. Whether you’re visiting for a weeklong vacation or just looking for a great meal near your hotel, these are the best restaurants on Maui’s North West Shore worth adding to your itinerary.

We love to stay at Sheraton Maui Resort and Spa on Kaanapali beach! See our review here: Hotel Review: Sheraton Maui Resort and Spa

Monkeypod Kitchen ($$$)

Wailea Location: 10 Wailea Gateway Place B-201, Kihei, HI 96753

Kaanapali Location: 2435 Kaanapali Pkwy, Bldg I-1, Lahaina, HI 96761

See our full review: Best Restaurant in Maui: Monkeypod Kitchen

We first discovered Monkeypod in Wailea and were overjoyed when they opened a second location in Whalers Village, Kaanapali! We’ve found that it is the perfect spot for drinks and dinner. Get a Monkeypod Mai Tai with their fabulous honey foam! Loved the Bulgogi Pork Tacos - handcrafted kimchee, jalapeño, asian pear, sriracha aioli, locally-made corn tortilla. Jalapeño mashed potatoes ARE A MUST. They are green, but don’t let that scare you!

Dessert is a must here, we loved the rich Chocolate Cream Pie but they have other cream pies such as Banana available as well. Make a reservation in advance, we used Opentable (they might not be taking reservations at this time, but always triple check!).

See our full review here: Monkeypod Kitchen Restaurant

• 🍽 Best for: Lunch or Dinner

• 🕒 Best time to go: Happy Hour

• 👶 Kid-friendly? Yes

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Hula Grill & Barefoot Bar ($$$/$$)

Whalers Village, 2435 Kaanapali Pkwy, Lahaina, HI 96761

Located in Whalers Village with outstanding ocean views, these two restaurants, Hula Grill and Barefoot Bar are not only owned by the same company, they are connected to each other. 

Hula Grill is a little more pricey with delicious traditional Hawaiian entrees including many fish dishes (crab, snapper, shrimp) and land dishes (chicken, steak, short rib, emu).

Barefoot bar is more casual ($$) serving burgers, fish and chips, pizza. The fun part about the bar, your feet are in the sand. Usually, they have live music and entertainment. 

Regardless of which restaurant you try, I love their Mai Tai's which are served in tiki glasses topped with the umbrella! Also, you MUST try the Hula pie! It’s vanilla or macadamia nut ice cream with an Oreo crumble pie crust, with whipped cream and fudge on top (served at both restaurants)! Best part is - they are walking distance from the Kaanapali hotels! 

• 🍽 Best for: Lunch or Dinner

• 🕒 Best time to go: Happy Hour

• 👶 Kid-friendly? Yes

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Merriman's Kapalua ($$$$)

Location: 1 Bay Club Pl, Lahaina, HI 96761

The perfect spot for sunset drinks and dinner, and a fine dining restaurant right on the water overlooking Kapalua Bay. Their cocktails are superb, made with fresh ingredients. The farm to table menu has a variety of fresh fish like Mahi Mahi and savory steak. Make a reservation a month in advance to get in around sunset (you can google "sunset in Maui" and a time table will appear). Merriman's about a 15 min drive from the Kaanapali resorts.

• 🍽 Best for: Dinner

• 🕒 Best time to go: SUNSET FOR THE VIEW!

• 👶 Kid-friendly? Yes

Yes, the sky was PINK! Made my Mai Tai much more enjoyable with a view like this:

Call ahead and make reservations or use Resy.com

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Aloha Mixed Plate ($$) - BACK OPEN AGAIN!

Location: 1285 Front Street, Lahaina

Star Noodle had taken over their location but as of October 2024, Star Noodle moved next door and Aloha Mixed Plate moved back home to their original location. You get the most bang for your buck here! Good sized portions of traditional Hawaiian fare.

What to order: I went for the traditional Aloha Mixed Plate -most popular combination - shoyu chicken, thinly sliced teriyaki rib eye, fresh fish served with macaroni salad and steamed white rice. I also indulged in a Lava Flow which is half strawberry daiquiri and half Pina colada.

Dessert - You must get the Aloha Pie - Cookie crumble, coconut ice cream, fudge topped with coconut flakes. Calories don’t count on vacation.

• 🍽 Best for: Dinner

• 🕒 Best time to go: Sunset

• 👶 Kid-friendly? Yes

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Star Noodle ($$)

Location: 1287 Front Street, Lahaina **NEW LOCATION**

See our full review here: Star Noodle Restaurant Review

So many people highly recommended Star Noodle to us, but every time we tried to go on previous trips, there was always a long wait. We made a reservation ahead of time and we finally made it to Star Noodle! It’s right on the water with a great view of Lanai and the perfect spot to watch the sunset. I HIGHLY recommend you make reservation at least a month out to dine at the restaurant.

Star Noodle is known for Asian shared plates, noodle dishes & sake cocktails.

MUST TRY: The garlic noodles and pork buns were so great, they brought us back a second night when we picked up food to go to eat on our balcony! Pro tip: Order the garlic noodles with the udon noodles (they are bigger, thicker, delicious noodles).

We went 3 times in one trip and our staples were the Pork Buns and Chicken Wings for appetizers, along with the Pork Udon (ramen type dish with pork, pork broth, and udon noodles) and the garlic noodles.

For dessert, they did have some interesting ice cream flavors: Ube Oreo, Mint mango, and Pineapple lichee.

Star Noodle has a full bar, but I wasn’t impressed with the selection. Their food is definitely worth the wait.

See our full review here: Star Noodle Restaurant Review

• 🍽 Best for: Dinner

• 🕒 Best time to go: Sunset

• 👶 Kid-friendly? Yes

Star Noodle Pork Buns

Star Noodle Views

Star Noodle Ice Cream Flavors: Ube Oreo, Mint mango, and Pineapple lichee.

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Maui Brewing Company ($$)

Locations: 605 Lipoa Pkwy, Kihei, HI 96753 and NEW LOCATION in the Outrigger Kaanapali Beach Resort - 2525 Kaanapali Pkwy, Lahaina, HI 96761

Maui Brewing Company is great for a beer (variety of selections on tap both local and from the mainland) and appetizers, burgers, and sandwiches. Try the Black Rock dip and chicken wings, you won't be disappointed! 

One thing to note, the Honoapiilani Highway restaurant closed and is now walking distance within the Kaanapali resorts!

Fun Fact: The actual Maui Brew Co brewery is closer to the airport near Kihei. 

• 🍽 Best for: Lunch or Dinner

• 🕒 Best time to go: Happy Hour

• 👶 Kid-friendly? Yes

Maui Brew Co Beers on tap

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Sale Pepe ($$) - NOW OPEN

Address: 157 Kupuohi St STE J1, Lahaina, HI 96761

Sale Pepe has returned after their storefront being destroyed in the Lahaina fires!

An Italian and New Yorker opened an Italian joint in Hawaii and it is PERFECTION! We had a few of their pizzas and pasta and can’t wait to come back for more.

We ordered 2 pizzas and a pasta dish and got 3 meals out of it for the 2 of us. Our favorite pizza was the Tomato, Fior di Latte, Red Onion, Pecorino, Maui Cattle Co. Meatballs Pizza. They cut their slices in fourths, so if you want smaller pieces I suggest you make the request when you order! Indoor seating also available here.

• 🍽 Best for: Pizza

• 🕒 Best time to go: Dinner

• 👶 Kid-friendly? Yes

Sale Pepe Pizza

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Lunch at Aloha Braised Food Truck

Address: 58 Kupuohi St, Lahaina, HI 96761

We went here two days in a row we liked it so much. It’s a little off the beaten path but also conveniently located next to a grocery store and near our favorite dive shop, Extended Horizons! If you like spicy, you must try the Volcano Chicken (fried chicken with spicy mayo) served with rice and mac salad! Josh liked the pork belly! Get a side of crinkle-cut fries to share!

• 🍽 Best for: Lunch

• 🕒 Best time to go: Afternoon

• 👶 Kid-friendly? Yes

Aloha Braised Food Truck - Volcano Chicken

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Lahaina Coolers ($$) - PERMANENTLY CLOSED DUE TO FIRE

OLD Location: 180 Dickenson St #107, Lahaina, HI 96761

Amazing spot for breakfast (or lunch) just off Front Street! There was NO wait on a Saturday morning at 8:30a! We sat out on the patio and had great service right away! I indulged in the Local Benedict (served over Hawaiian sweet bread with Kalua pig) and did not leave hungry. Josh ordered the breakfast sandwich, which was good, but not as good as the benedict. Their potatoes are a perfect mix of french fries and tater tots! Also, try their homemade hot sauce, but caution, it’s SUPER SPICY if you overload!

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Gazebo Restaurant ($$)

Location: Napili Shores Maui by Outrigger, 5315 Lower Honoapiilani Rd, Lahaina, HI 96761

Great breakfast spot, however, it’s always crowded. Try and get there 30 minutes before they open to beat the line. We waited for about an hour after arriving a tad after 7:30a, but saw the most amazing rainbow while waiting (pictured below along with the pancakes that I was too excited to eat and forgot to take a picture of them whole).

Pro-tip: You can go around the back to place an order go (see where the lady is standing in the picture), then sit right on the beach and enjoy your meal with a view of Napili Bay!

The macadamia nut pancake combo with pineapple and banana pancakes made the wait worth it! Make sure you get coconut syrup and whipped cream on top. Their coffee was fresh and strong, definitely order the fresh POG juice (pineapple, orange, guava).

It's about a 15 minute drive from Kaanapali resorts. 

Pro tip #2: park in the free beach parking by Merriman’s then go to the beach/snorkeling after breakfast. Just wait those 30 minutes before you swim! ;-)

• 🍽 Best for: Breakfast

• 🕒 Best time to go: Early Morning

• 👶 Kid-friendly? Yes

Gazebo Restaurant for Breakfast in Lahaina

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Down the Hatch ($$) - TEMPORARILY CLOSED DUE TO FIRES - Hope they open a new location soon!

OLD Location: 658 Front St #102, Lahaina, HI 96761

Breakfast Burrito Maui

We went to Down the Hatch on our last day, in which we were heading to the airport. We decided to order breakfast to go to enjoy at a park along the beach! My breakfast burrito was amazing with a chipotle aioli sauce of some sort and the coffee was freshly brewed.

The downside, if I may, was that football games were on and the restaurant was super busy, taking about 30 mins for my food to go.

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Best Restaurants in Wailea

Wailea is known for its luxury resorts, beautiful beaches, and some of the best dining experiences on the island. From upscale oceanfront restaurants perfect for romantic dinners to laid-back spots ideal for families staying nearby, Wailea offers a wide range of memorable places to eat. If you’re looking for exceptional food, stunning sunset views, and convenient dining close to your resort, these are the best restaurants in Wailea to add to your Maui itinerary.

Ferraro’s Bar e Ristorante at the Four Seasons Wailea ($$$)

Location: Four Seasons - 3900 Wailea Alanui Dr, Kihei, HI 96753

After being in Maui for a few weeks, we hadn’t had much Italian food and were so excited about our reservation at Ferraro’s! We came hungry and ordered a lot of food for 2 people…

For an appetizer, we started with the Al Forno Fired Focaccia Bread (Nduja Butter, Roasted Garlic, Maui Olive Oil, Fried Rosemary), which was fantastic. The Nduja Butter was made with salami and was rather tasty.

For dinner, I ordered the Pappardelle A.O.C. Ragu Bolognese (Pork and Beef Ragu, Shaved Pecorino, Fiore Sardo) and there wasn’t a bite left. Josh ordered the Spaghetti Carbonara (Guanciale, Organic Egg, Pecorino Romano, Black Pepper) heavy white cream sauce with a pepper kick. Good, but not our favorite. Call us crazy, but we ordered a side of Gnocchi (Brown Butter, Rosemary, Black Truffle), yes, we ordered a side of pasta to go with our pasta and don’t regret it one bit. It was the best gnocchi we’ve ever had.

You’d think we’d stop there after all the carbs, but no, we went for dessert. So, we liked the options on the regular menu but saw there was an Apple Pie with Vanilla ice cream on the kids/teens menu, and that’s what we went with. It came out looking like a tart and was perfect.

This is one of our new favorite restaurants and we will definitely come back.

• 🍽 Best for: Italian

• 🕒 Best time to go: Early evening

• 👶 Kid-friendly? Yes

Pappardelle and Gnocchi at Ferraro’s Wailea

Apple Pie for dessert at Ferraro’s

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Lineage in Wailea ($$$)

Location: 3750 Wailea Alanui Dr, Wailea, HI 96753

cinnamon leaf and POG Sherbet at Lineage

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! His theme is eat, drink, and talk story - which is what we did at Lineage!

DRINKS: 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

FOOD: Josh and I split the Korean Fried Chicken and had both the Sweet Kochujang and Spicy Jalapeno Garlic - Crispy fried chicken, pickled kohlrabi, sesame seeds, peanuts and kochujang glaze. The chicken was tender and perfect with a light kick but not too spicy. Complimentary tea was served to cleanse our palettes and savor our dishes.

DESSERT: We were pretty full but had to try dessert! We had the sherbet flavors cinnamon leaf and POG (Pineapple, Orange, Guava juice). The pog was so tangy and refreshing while the cinnamon leaf had a spice to it. Very yin and yang!

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HUMUHUMUNUKUNUKUAPUA'A ($$$)

Location: Grand Wailea - 3850 Wailea Alanui Dr, Wailea, HI 96753

Easy for you to say! This was our favorite place to get a drink a fancy cocktail in the bar and watch the sunset. Humuhumnukunukuapua’a means triggerfish with a snout like a pig (it’s a reef triggerfish). Their recipe for The Grand has a lighter taste without the dark rum and topped off with a wonderfully sweet pineapple vanilla foam. 

Make reservations ahead of time for dinner here, the menu looks fantastic!

• 🍽 Best for: Cocktails and Appetizers

• 🕒 Best time to go: Sunset

• 👶 Kid-friendly? No

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Wolfgang Puck’s Spago at the Four Seasons Wailea ($$$$)

Location: Four Seasons - 3900 Wailea Alanui Dr, Kihei, HI 96753

DRINKS: 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 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

FOOD: We enjoyed a nice sunset dinner at Spago overlooking Wailea Beach. Adam Sandler was sitting at the table next to us! For dinner, I savored the Pan Roasted Puna Chicken with surfing goat cheese, chili, garlic, and roasted Aloun Farm's vegetables and Josh had the Wiener Schnitzel with marinated fingerling potatoes, watercress, and Styrian pumpkin seed oil.

Don’t forget dessert! Try the decadent Valrhona Chocolate Soufflé topped with Guanaja Valrhona chocolate sauce & vanilla ice cream! So rich and delish!

• 🍽 Best for: Dinner

• 🕒 Best time to go: Sunset

• 👶 Kid-friendly? No

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MONKEYPOD KITCHEN

Don’t forget, there is a Monkeypod Kitchen in Wailea too! See the Kaanapali section for more or see our full review here: Monkeypod Kitchen Restaurant

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Best Restaurant in Paia / Road to Hana

Mama’s Fish House  ($$$)

Location: 799 Poho Pl, Paia, HI 96779

Mama’s Fish House is one of Maui’s most iconic dining experiences, known for ultra-fresh seafood, locally sourced ingredients, and unforgettable oceanfront views. It’s a must-visit for special occasions and first-time visitors looking for a classic Hawaiian fine dining experience. Great for dinner and drinks on the North Shore. We went here on our way back from the Road to Hana adventure. See our guide here: ROAD TO HANA GUIDE

I'm not a fish person particularly, but I did try some and it was the best fish I’ve ever had. I enjoyed their short rib and a couple of Mai Tai's (love that it's served in a tiki glass)!

Make a reservation in advance, we used Opentable. Parking is valet only. 

• 🍽 Best for: Fish

• 🕒 Best time to go: Early evening

• 👶 Kid-friendly? Yes

Mama’s Fish House Mai tai

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BONUS: MAUI COFFEE AND ICE CREAM SUGGESTIONS!

 Island Cream Company ($)

Location: 305 Keawe St #511, Lahaina, HI 96761

I'm not sure Island Cream Company just tastes better because it's in Hawaii (everything is better in Hawaii) or if it's their original recipe with the perfect mix of gelato and ice cream. All ice creams are hand made as well as their cones, fudge and other fun toppings. Most ice creams are natural and products are bought locally.

My favorite was the Maui-Loco filled with Macadamia nuts, chocolate chips and caramel in a creamery coconut ice cream base. So refreshing and delicious!

See our full review here: Island Cream Co

Coffee and 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 with a Mac nut latte! They also have other croissant variations as well as other pastries (try the crumb cake). We went here twice, taking our breakfast to go to enjoy on the beach!

Island Press coffee and breakfast croissant

Grandma’s Coffee ($)

Location: 9232 Kula Hwy, Kula, HI 96790

Perfect place for coffee and breakfast if you're attempting the back way to Hana. Fresh coffees, espresso drinks and pastries will leave your tummy happy and full.

From central Maui, head up Haleakala Highway 37 from the Hana Highway. Following Highway 37 traverse Haleakala Crater while enjoying the spectacular upcountry Maui views. Continue on to the picturesque community of Keokea, home of Grandma's Coffee House. Grandma's is a short distance from the Kula botanical Gardens and on the way to Tedeschi Vineyards.

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MORE MAUI, HAWAII Travel Inspiration, Hacks, and Tips:

Valentine’s Day Sugar Cookie House (Easy, No Gingerbread Required)

Valentine’s Day sugar cookie house decorated with pink buttercream and heart candies

How to Make a Valentine’s Day Sugar Cookie House Without Gingerbread

This Valentine’s Day sugar cookie house is a fun, festive twist if you love making a gingerbread house at Christmas, you’re going to love this Valentine’s Day sugar cookie house with no Gingerbread required. It’s a fun, festive twist on a classic holiday activity—made with soft sugar cookies instead of gingerbread, pastel icing, and Valentine-themed decorations that kids (and adults) can’t get enough of. Oh and pink… lots of pink! 💗

This sugar cookie house is perfect for Valentine’s Day baking with kids, classroom parties, or a cozy weekend activity at home. There’s no waiting for stiff gingerbread to cool, no rock-hard pieces to wrestle with—just an easy sugar cookie dough that bakes up sturdy enough to build, but delicious enough to eat.

✨ Jump to a Section ✨

• What Is a Valentine’s Day Sugar Cookie House?
• Sugar Cookie House Shopping List
• Ingredients for a Sugar Cookie House
• Valentine’s Day Sugar Cookie House Recipe
• Step-by-Step Cookie House Assembly

What Is a Valentine’s Day Sugar Cookie House?

A Valentine’s Day sugar cookie house is a festive cookie house made from sturdy rolled sugar cookies instead of gingerbread. The cookies are baked flat, assembled with thick icing or buttercream, and decorated with Valentine-themed candies, sprinkles, and frosting. It’s easier to build, better tasting, and perfect for kids.

Why You’ll Love This Valentine Cookie House

• No gingerbread required – softer, tastier sugar cookies

• Kid-friendly – easy shapes, simple assembly

• Customizable – pink, red, hearts, sprinkles, candies

• Perfect Valentine activity – baking + decorating in one

Whether you’re looking for a unique Valentine’s Day tradition or just want a creative alternative to cupcakes and candy, this cookie house is guaranteed to be a hit.

What Is a Sugar Cookie House?

A sugar cookie house is built just like a traditional gingerbread house—but instead of gingerbread, you use rolled sugar cookie dough cut into house panels. Once baked and cooled, the pieces are assembled with icing and decorated with Valentine-themed candies, frosting, and sprinkles.

It’s easier for beginners, more forgiving for kids, and honestly… much better tasting. I love gingerbread houses- minus the gingerbread!

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Valentine’s Day sugar cookie house decorated with pink buttercream and heart candies

Valentine Sugar Cookie House Shopping List

These tools make building a Valentine’s Day sugar cookie house easier—especially with kids. Shop our Amazon Favorite Baking List!

Baking Essentials

• Rolling pin (use adjustable thickness rolling guides if you have one)

• Silicone baking mats or parchment paper

• Sharp knife or pizza cutter (for cutting house panels)

• Baking sheets

Decorating Tools

• Piping bags (reusable or disposable)

• Round piping tips (or cut the tip off the bag)

• Small offset spatula or butter knife

• Reusable squeeze bottles (great for little hands)

Valentine Decorations

• Valentine sprinkles (pink, red, white)

• Conversation hearts

• Mini marshmallows

• Heart-shaped candies or chocolates

Optional (But Helpful)

• Gel food coloring (pink, red, white)

• Small bowls for sorting candy

• Plastic knives or spoons for kids

• Apron or parchment for easy cleanup

💡 Tip: If you already make sugar cookies at Christmas, you likely already have most of these on hand—this project just uses them in a new, festive way. I’m using red M&M’s from a leftover bag of red and green Christmas M&M’s!

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Ingredients for a Sugar Cookie House

Ingredients for a Sugar Cookie House

This Valentine’s Day sugar cookie house uses the same sturdy sugar cookie dough I rely on for our Christmas cookie houses. It’s specifically designed to hold its shape while baking, making it perfect for building—without sacrificing flavor.

Sugar Cookie Dough

• Unsalted butter, softened

• Granulated sugar

• Vanilla extract

• All-purpose flour

• Milk

• Sprinkles

💡 This is not a soft drop-cookie dough. It’s a rolled sugar cookie dough that bakes flat and sturdy enough to support walls and a roof. It tastes similar to shortbread cookies.

Buttercream Icing (for Assembly & Decorating)

Instead of royal icing, I use a simple buttercream frosting to assemble and decorate my sugar cookie houses—and I’ve never had an issue with them falling apart. It’s easier to make, tastes better, and uses ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen.

Buttercream Ingredients

• Unsalted butter, softened

• Powdered sugar

• Vanilla extract

• Milk or cream (as needed)

That’s it. No specialty ingredients, no meringue powder.

Valentine Decorations (Optional but Fun!)

• Valentine sprinkles

• Pink, red, and white candies

• Conversation hearts

• Mini marshmallows

• Heart-shaped candies or chocolates

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Sugar Cookie House Template

Sugar Cookie Dough Tips (Important!)

These tips are key to making sure your Valentine cookie house actually stands up:

✔ Use the Same Recipe + Method

I use the exact same sugar cookie dough and steps from my Christmas sugar cookie house—no changes needed. The dough is intentionally:

• Firm

• Easy to roll

• Resistant to spreading

If you’ve made my gingerbread-style sugar cookie house before, you’ll feel right at home here.

✔ Chill the Dough

Chilling the dough before cutting helps:

• Keep edges sharp

• Prevent spreading

• Ensure straight walls and roof pieces

If the dough becomes soft while working, pop it back in the fridge for 10–15 minutes.

✔ Roll Dough Evenly

Roll the dough to an even thickness (about ¼ inch). Uneven dough can cause warped pieces, which makes assembly harder.

✔ Bake Until Just Set

You want the cookies:

• Fully baked

• Lightly golden on the edges

• Firm once cooled

Underbaked cookies will bend; overbaked cookies can crack.

✔ Cool Completely Before Building

Let all cookie pieces cool completely before assembling. Warm cookies are fragile and more likely to break when handled.

Buttercream Frosting Design for Valentine’s Day Sugar Cookie House

Buttercream Tips for Structure

To make sure your cookie house stays sturdy:

• Make the buttercream very thick — it should hold stiff peaks

• Use it generously where pieces connect

• Let assembled sections sit for a few minutes before adding the roof

• Decorate once the structure feels stable

If your frosting feels too soft, add more powdered sugar until it’s firm enough to act as glue.

Buttercream vs. Royal Icing for Cookie Houses (FAQ)

Can you really build a cookie house with buttercream?

Yes! A thick buttercream frosting works very well for sugar cookie houses. I’ve used buttercream for multiple cookie houses without any issues with them falling apart. As long as your cookies are fully cooled and your frosting is thick enough, buttercream provides plenty of structure.

Why do most recipes recommend royal icing?

Royal icing is often recommended because it dries rock-hard, which makes it ideal for gingerbread houses that need maximum stability or are meant to be displayed for long periods. However, it’s not the only option—especially for sugar cookie houses that are meant to be enjoyed and eaten.

Does buttercream taste better than royal icing?

In my opinion, yes. Buttercream has a richer, creamier flavor and is much more enjoyable to eat than royal icing, which can be very hard and dry once set. For cookie houses that double as dessert, buttercream is a big win.

Will buttercream hold up if kids are helping?

Absolutely. Buttercream is more forgiving than royal icing, which can crack or harden too quickly. It’s easier for kids to pipe, spread, and decorate with—making it ideal for family baking or classroom-style projects.

When is royal icing the better choice?

Royal icing may be a better option if:

• You want a house to sit out for many days

• You’re building a large or very tall structure

• The house is mostly decorative and not meant to be eaten

For most home bakers and kid-friendly projects, buttercream works beautifully.

Can I use buttercream for both assembly and decorating?

Yes! Buttercream works for both building and decorating your cookie house. You can tint it pink, red, or white for Valentine’s Day and use it to attach pieces, pipe details, and secure decorations all in one step.

Why Buttercream Frosting Works for Cookie Houses

While royal icing dries rock-hard, a thick buttercream icing works surprisingly well for sugar cookie houses when used correctly.

Here’s why I prefer it:

• Better flavor – everyone actually wants to eat it

• Easier to work with – no precise mixing ratios

• Pantry-friendly – no special ingredients required

• More forgiving – great for baking with kids

As long as the frosting is thick and your cookies are fully cooled, buttercream holds the house together just fine.

Frosting and decorating ideas for Valentine’s Sugar Cookie House

Kid-Friendly Valentine Cookie House Decorating Ideas

Decorating is the best part—and this Valentine’s Day sugar cookie house is meant to be fun, low-pressure, and kid-friendly. With soft sugar cookies and easy buttercream frosting, kids can help decorate without worrying about pieces breaking or icing hardening too fast.

Set Up a Decorating Station

Before you start, lay everything out so kids can decorate their Valentine Cookie House independently:

• Bowls of Valentine sprinkles

• Pink, red, and white buttercream

• Small candies and heart-shaped decorations

• Plastic knives or spoons for spreading frosting

This keeps things organized and lets kids focus on creativity instead of waiting for help.

Let Kids Decorate Flat Pieces First

For younger kids, it helps to:

• Decorate the cookie panels before assembling the house

• Keep designs simple—dots, hearts, stripes, and swirls

• Avoid heavy candy on roof pieces

Once the pieces are decorated, you can assemble the house for them or let older kids help. I always decorate the pieces before assembling!

Easy Decorating Ideas Kids Love

These simple ideas are perfect for little hands:

• Heart windows using conversation hearts

• Sprinkle roofs pressed gently into buttercream

• Polka dots made with candy melts or mini candies

• Frosting swirls piped along edges and seams

• See my Pinterest board for decoration inspiration

There’s no “right” way—every cookie house turns out different, and that’s part of the fun.

Decorating Tips for Success

• Use thick buttercream so decorations stay put

• Work slowly and take breaks if kids get overwhelmed

• If something falls off, just add more frosting and try again

Remember: this is about fun, not perfection.

Make It a Valentine Tradition

Turn decorating into a yearly tradition by:

• Letting kids choose the candy colors

• Writing names or hearts on the house with frosting

• Taking photos before it gets eaten

These cookie houses make sweet Valentine memories—and a dessert everyone actually wants to eat.

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Sugar Cookie House Template

Valentine’s Day Sugar Cookie House Recipe (Easy & Kid-Friendly)

Making a Valentine’s Day Sugar Cookie House, requires a little homework and preparation! I made my own template - Gingerbread House blueprint template.

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)

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 2 tablespoons milk and 2 teaspoon vanilla. Beat in as much of the flour as you can with the mixer. At first it may look dry but after adding the liquids it comes together. 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 (or 15-20 mins in the freezer if you run out of time). You can refrigerate the cookie dough for up to 2 days. On large sheets of parchment paper roll out dough portions to 1/8- to 1/4-inch thick. Lightly flour the top of the dough (put cling wrap between) 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 cutter) to cut around each pattern piece. Remove excess dough. Remove pattern pieces; set aside.

• Step 5 - Transfer cookie 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 different heart shapes, if desired.

  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.

Back of Valentine’s Day sugar cookie house decorated with pink buttercream and sprinkles

Best Frosting or Icing for Valentine’s Day House

The best frosting for Valentine’s Day Sugar Cookie House construction is buttercream frosting. Most use Royal icing but Buttercream frosting also works and tastes much better.

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 cup by cup 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.

Sugar Cookie House Assembly - use Sprinkle container to help construct

10 Easy Step by Step Instructions of Valentine’s Day Sugar Cookie House Construction

To build and construct a Valentine’s Day Sugar Cookie House, follow these easy step by step instructions:

1. Make the dough ahead of time - you need it to chill in the refrigerator at least an hour before making (or the freezer for 20 mins).

2. While you’re waiting, make a plan for the sizing of your pieces. Check out my Gingerbread House blueprint template if you need one!

3. Preheat your oven to 325F after your chill time is complete.

4. Roll the dough 1/4” thick, I use these rolling guides for my rolling pin so I know it’s the right size. Pro-tip: I roll on the baking mat so it doesn’t slip. To prevent the dough from sticking to the pin, put extra flour on the top and bottom of the dough and put a layer of cling wrap on top, then roll over the dough! Mess free!

5. Place your blueprint pieces on top of the dough and cut around them with a knife or pizza cutter!

6. Transfer dough cutouts to a cookie sheets and bake in the preheated oven for 12 to 15 minutes or until edges are lightly browned. Cool 2 minutes on pan then move to wire racks and cool completely. Use a knife (or pizza slicer) to cut edges evenly, if necessary.

7. While the cookies are cooling, make your frosting and check Pinterest for design inspiration, like my Valentine’s Day Treats and Baking Ideas board.

8. Decorate your heart away (pun intended) with buttercream icing (see recipe below), candies, and decorative sprinkles. Refrigerate for 20 mins.

9. Assemble cookie house using buttercream icing as glue. Start with the front and a side piece of the house, first. Pro-tip: Use a soup can or sprinkle jar to help support the house while the frosting firms up. Then apply the second side and back of the house.

10. Decorate around the house and take a few pictures before indulging!

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Valentine’s Day Sugar Cookie House dough

Valentine’s Day Sugar Cookie House FAQ

Can you make a sugar cookie house without gingerbread?

Yes! A sugar cookie house is built using sturdy rolled sugar cookie dough instead of gingerbread. The cookies bake flat, hold their shape well, and are much easier to work with—making them perfect for Valentine’s Day cookie houses.

Is a sugar cookie house easier than a gingerbread house?

Yes, sugar cookie houses are easier than gingerbread houses. The dough is softer to roll, doesn’t need long cooling times, and is more forgiving during assembly, especially when kids are helping.

What frosting works best for a sugar cookie house?

A thick buttercream frosting works very well for sugar cookie houses. When made stiff, buttercream acts as glue to hold the cookie pieces together while also tasting better than traditional royal icing.

Can you really build a cookie house with buttercream?

Yes, you can build a cookie house using buttercream frosting. As long as the cookies are fully cooled and the frosting is thick enough to hold stiff peaks, buttercream provides plenty of structure for assembling and decorating.

Does buttercream hold up when baking with kids?

Absolutely. Buttercream is easier for kids to pipe, spread, and decorate with compared to royal icing. It’s more forgiving, doesn’t harden too quickly, and allows kids to fix mistakes easily.

Do you need to chill sugar cookie dough for a cookie house?

Yes, chilling the dough is very important. Cold dough holds its shape better during baking, prevents spreading, and helps create straight, sturdy walls and roof pieces for your cookie house.

How thick should sugar cookies be for a cookie house?

Sugar cookies for a cookie house should be rolled to an even thickness of about ¼ inch. This thickness provides enough strength for building while still baking evenly.

Can you decorate a sugar cookie house before assembling it?

Yes! Decorating the cookie pieces before assembling the house is especially helpful when baking with kids. Flat pieces are easier to decorate, and you can assemble the structure once the frosting has set slightly.

How far in advance can you make a Valentine’s Day sugar cookie house?

You can bake the cookie pieces 1–2 days in advance and store them in an airtight container. The assembled cookie house is best enjoyed within 1–2 days for freshness.

Is a Valentine’s Day sugar cookie house good for classroom parties?

Yes, Valentine’s Day sugar cookie houses are great for classroom parties. You can pre-bake the pieces, provide buttercream and decorations, and let kids decorate without worrying about hard gingerbread or stiff icing.

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Whether you’re starting a new Valentine’s Day tradition or just looking for a fun baking project to do with kids, this Valentine’s Day sugar cookie house is a sweet way to celebrate. With soft, sturdy sugar cookies, easy buttercream frosting, and endless decorating options, it’s a festive activity that’s just as enjoyable to make as it is to eat. Save this recipe for later, pin it for Valentine’s Day inspiration, and come back to it year after year for a cozy, creative holiday treat everyone will love.

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More Posts:

Sugar Cookie House cutouts

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

Kahanu Garden - National Tropical Botanical Garden

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

UPDATED January 1, 2026

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

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

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

Road to Hana Quick Facts

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

Sale

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

Sale Price: $7.00 Original Price: $10.00

Add to Cart

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

Jump to:

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

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Before you Begin - Road to Hana Map

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

2. Lava Tubes (30 mins)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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FIRST STOP: HALFWAY TO HANA

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

RELATED POSTS:

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

Best Restaurants in Maui                Top 10 Things to do in Maui

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BEST SIGHTS TO SEE ON THE ROAD TO HANA:

Is the Road to Hana Worth It?

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

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

Mile Marker #2 Twin Falls

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

Twin Falls stop on Road to Hana

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

Twin Falls with rope swing on Road to Hana

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

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Rainbow Eucalyptus

Mile Marker #7 Rainbow Eucalyptus Trees

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

What is a rainbow eucalyptus?

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

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Mile Marker #19 Upper Waikani Falls - 3 Bear Falls

3 Bears Falls also known as Upper Waikani Falls

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

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

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

Coconut GLen’s Ice Cream

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

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

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

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

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Mile Marker #31 Lava Tubes or Ka'leleku Cave

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

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

Parking: There is a parking lot!

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Mile Marker #31 Kahanu Garden - National Tropical Botanical Garden

Address: 650 Ulaino Rd Hana, HI

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

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

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

• Tour Duration: 2 hours

• Check day and operating hours on their website

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

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

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

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

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#32 Waianapanapa State Wayside Park - Black Sand Beach

Black Sand Beach views

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

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

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

Entrance Fee

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

• Non-Residents = $5.00 Per Person

• Children 3 and Under = Free

Parking Fees

Non-Commercial Vehicles

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

• Non-Residents = $10 per vehicle

Commercial PUC Vehicles

• 1-7 passenger vehicles: $25

• 8-25 passenger vehicles: $50

• 26+ passenger vehicles:$90

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

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Hana Town

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

Mile Marker #50 Hamoa Beach 

Hamoa Beach

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

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

 

Lunch Spots in Hana

Shave ice at the Food Truck Stop

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

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

Address: 5260 Hana Hwy, Hana, HI 96713

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

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

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

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KAIHALULU RED SAND BEACH

Kaihalulu: Red Sand Beach

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

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

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

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Mile Marker #41 Haleakala National Park - Kipahulu 

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

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

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

PIPIWAI TRAIL - BAMBOO FOREST

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

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

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

WAIMOKU FALLS - HALEAKALA NATIONAL PARK

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Driving the Road to Hana With Kids

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

• Bathroom stop reality

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

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

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

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

• When to turn around

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

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

• Safety near waterfalls

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

• Black Sand Beach (Wainapanapa State Park)

• Coconut Glen’s Ice Cream

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

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Drive It Yourself vs a Road to Hana Tour

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

🚗 Driving the Road to Hana Yourself

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

Pros:

• Go at your own pace

• Stop (or skip) whenever you want

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

• More flexibility to turn around early if needed

Cons:

• The driver can’t fully enjoy the views

• Requires navigating narrow, winding roads

• Parking at popular stops can be competitive

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

🚌 Taking a Road to Hana Tour

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

Pros:

• No driving stress

• Local guides share history and hidden spots

• No worrying about directions or parking

• Often includes lunch and key stops

Cons:

• Fixed schedule and limited stop time

• Less flexibility with kids or nap schedules

• Can feel rushed at popular spots

• Long day sitting on a bus

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

⭐ Our Honest Take

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

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

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

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What to Avoid on the Road to Hana

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

🚫 Trying to Do Too Much

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

• Pick a handful of must-see stops

• Build in time for bathroom and snack breaks

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

🚫 Starting Too Late in the Day

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

• Aim to start before 7am

• Morning drives are quieter and more enjoyable

• You’ll have better lighting for photos

🚫 Driving Past Your Comfort Level

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

• Turn around if the drive becomes overwhelming

• Don’t feel pressured to complete the full loop

• There’s no “right” endpoint for everyone

🚫 Parking Illegally or on the Roadside

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

• Never block the road or bridges

• Avoid stopping where parking isn’t clearly allowed

• Fines are common and roads are too narrow for mistakes

🚫 Ignoring Weather and Water Conditions

Conditions can change quickly, even on sunny days.

• Skip waterfall swimming after heavy rain

• Avoid muddy, fast-moving water

• Respect all posted warnings and closures

🚫 Trespassing or Ignoring Signs

Many roadside areas are private property.

• “No Trespassing” signs are there for a reason

• Stick to clearly marked public stops

• Respect local communities and residents

🚫 Letting Kids Wander Near Water or Roads

This drive requires extra attention with children.

• Keep kids within arm’s reach near waterfalls

• Watch carefully near roadside pull-offs

• Use water shoes and avoid slippery rocks

🚫 Relying on Cell Service

Cell service is unreliable along much of the route.

• Download maps ahead of time

• Screenshot directions and stop lists

• Don’t assume GPS will work everywhere

⭐ Parent Tip

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

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

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Sale

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

Sale Price: $7.00 Original Price: $10.00

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Click photo for Top 10 Restaurants in Maui

Heading Back Before Dark

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

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

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

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

 TRY OUR FREE ROAD TO HANA GUIDE: CLICK HERE

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

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

Here are some more Maui posts:

Maui With Kids: The Ultimate Family Travel Guide 2026

Kids love RUnning on Airplane beach in Maui and in and out of waves

Is Maui Worth It With Kids? A Real Family-Friendly Travel Guide

Yes — Maui is absolutely worth visiting with kids. From calm beaches and stroller-friendly resort areas to kid-loving restaurants and flexible activities, Maui is one of the easiest Hawaiian islands to enjoy as a family — even with toddlers.

Our kids don’t understand how lucky they are for the amount of times they have gone to Hawaii! Maui is our favorite destination for traveling as a family. There is so much to do and the island has so much to offer for everyone. We have made some sweet memories together from having an infant to toddler and kid years.

We have learned to have a successful trip you need the balance of snacks, naps, and fun! therefore, we have recommendations for accommodations, restaurants, and things to do to entertain (and hopefully tire out) your tot!

Related Post: Don’t miss our ULTIMATE MAUI GUIDE

Honokōwai Beach Park

Quick Jump

• Best Places to Stay in Maui with Kids
• Best Beaches in Maui for Kids
• Best Restaurants in Maui with Kids
• Things to Do in Maui with Kids
• 5-Day Maui Itinerary with Kids
• What to Pack for Maui with Kids

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Best Places to Stay in Maui for Families

After many hotel and condo stays around Maui, let’s break up the island to compare which areas are best for your family!

🏝️ Best Areas to Stay in Maui With Kids

Area	Best For	Walkability	Beach Type
Kā‘anapali	First-timers, toddlers	⭐⭐⭐⭐	Sandy, swimmable
Wailea	Luxury, older kids	⭐⭐	Resort beaches
Napili / Kapalua	Quiet stays, babies	⭐	Calm coves

These are the best areas to stay in Maui with kids based on walkability, beach conditions, and family-friendly amenities.

Kaanapali vs Wailea vs Kapalua with Kids

• Kaanapali is much more kid friendly, as well as budget friendly, than Wailea. Both areas of the island have family friendly hotels but Kaanapali has a long stretch of them! There is a great beach and tons of hotels and shopping along Kaanapali with a long walk way to connect everything together.

• Wailea has more high end hotels that are more geared towards adults, such as the Four Seasons or the Andaz. The Grand Wailea has an awesome pool with lots of water slides but you can also get similar pools in Kaanapali.

• Napili and Kapalua are further North and rockier than the previous areas discussed. It’s not as walkable as the hotel resorts are more spread out, which makes it less crowded and quieter. Kapalua bay has a great beach that doesn’t have big waves but also has a coral reef that is great for snorkeling! The Kapalua coastal trail is great for strollers or walking with a carrier.

🏨 Condo Resorts vs Hotels

Depending on your length of stay, if it’s more than 5 days, you might be more comfortable trying a condo like Outrigger’s Honua Kai! You can pick your room layout (Studio, One Bedroom, Two Bedroom or Three Bedrooms) so that you have plenty of space especially when babies or toddlers are napping and you need another room to hang out in!

Condo Rental Wins:

• Pools are like resort pools! Honua Kai has one of our favorite pools complete with water slides, splash pad, and kiddie pool! You can even get food and drink poolside service from Duke’s restaurant!

• My favorite feature is having a full kitchen with the little ones so you can make pancakes or have fresh fruit and milk available in a full sized refrigerator as opposed to a mini fridge.

• We book through Maui Resort Rentals and they have cribs/pack n plays so you don’t have to bring a bed!

Taking first steps on a Little Beach bridges in front of Honua Kai

Best resorts for families

Don’t get me wrong, the resort hotels are wonderful too! If you have kids that are 4+, traveling is a bit easier since you don’t have to bring diapers, strollers, pack n play, etc!

Kaanapali has a few great hotel resorts:

• Westin Kā‘anapali Ocean Resort Villas

  • The Westin in Kaanapali has an amazing pool area with slides, fountains, and one especially parent-friendly feature: our 3-year-old could climb up to the slide on their own and land in a shallow pool (about 1.5 feet deep). This setup was a huge win for us—it gave our toddler independence while giving us a much-needed break from constant stair climbing.

  • The Westin also has great restaurants, a Starbucks, and an ARCADE!

  • Other activities include feeding the flamingos and birds in the morning. Ask the front desk about the times for daily feedings. We were even able to hold the birds too!

• Hyatt Regency Maui Resort and Spa

  • The pool at the Hyatt Regency Maui is a kid’s tropical playground that feels more like a mini-waterpark than a hotel pool. Between the sandy lagoons, waterslides, swinging rope bridge, hidden grottos tucked behind rushing waterfalls, and the legendary Ululani’s Shave Ice located right on the pool deck, it provides enough adventure to keep children entertained from sunrise to sunset.

  • The Hyatt Regency Maui resort has a resident colony of African Black-Footed Penguins. Located right in the atrium lobby, these charismatic birds are a must-see, especially during the daily 9:30 AM feedings where children can watch them waddle, swim, and dive for their breakfast while learning about conservation from the wildlife team. It’s essentially a mini-zoo experience without leaving the hotel, featuring not just the penguins but also flamingos, swans, and talking parrots scattered throughout the lush grounds.

  • Has a game room/arcade area geared toward kids and teens.

African Black-Footed Penguins at the Hyatt Regency Maui

Wailea also has a family friendly hotel:

• Grand Wailea

  • Though there isn’t an arcade, the Grand Wailea offers a kids club and teen lounge including video games and indoor activities— which is more structured and supervised than the Hyatt or Westin Arcades.

  • The Grand Wailea pool is widely considered the heavyweight champion for kids on Maui. The massive Wailea Canyon Activity Pool is a sprawling 25,700-square-foot playground that is actually nine individual pools connected by a network of lazy rivers and whitewater rapids.

  • Children can choose from five different waterslides, including the three-story Lava Tube for the brave and gentler interconnected slides for the younger ones. Between the Tarzan rope swing, the hidden caves behind waterfalls, and a dedicated Baby Beach with a sandy bottom and zero-entry slope, it essentially functions as a private, world-class waterpark that keeps kids engaged for days on end.

    See our full review of The Grand Wailea.

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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

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🌊 Things to Do in Maui With Kids

• Easy hikes

  • Iao Valley is great to wander around and has different hiking levels for all ages. There’s also a stream to swim in.

  • Kapalua’s Coastal Trail is even stroller friendly with stunning beach views.

    See our full breakdown in our Maui Hiking Trails Post!

• Farm visits

  Kula Ranch is a great place to visit especially in October! They have a full pumpkin patch as well as a few animals to look at and pet. Kula is above Wailea but you ave to drive around to get to it. Also, try the pumpkin bread sold in the little stand!

• Road to Hana Stops

  The Road to Hana is such a great way to see how gorgeous Maui is filled with waterfalls, beaches, banana bread stops and more! If you do go, it is an ALL day adventure, so plan and prepare ahead of time.

  You must stop at the Black Sand Beach and try to get to Haleakala National Park for a hike through the Pipiwai Trail (Bamboo Forest). See our full list of Road to Hana Stops for more!

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🍽️ Best Kid Friendly Restaurants in Maui

1. 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!

2. 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!”

3. 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!

We bring our Wagon instea of a Stroller

Traveling to Maui With Toddlers

1. 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.

2. 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!

3. 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.

4. 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.

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Walking along the kid and stroller friendly Kapalua Coastal Walk in Maui

5-Day Maui Itinerary with Kids

Day 1 Arrival

12p Arrival into OGG, pick up rental car

1p stop at Target, Costco, then pick up Tin Roof

3p Check into Honua Kai Condo

4p 🛍️ Head to Whalers Village for shopping and dinner at Monkeypod (get extra food for fridge). Must order: Chicken Wings, Kalua Pork Pizza, Free Butter Noodles for kids, pie slices to go to eat in room after kids go to bed. Don’t forget to order the best Mai Tai on the island! All of this is on the Happy Hour menu!

6p Back to hotel for bedtime

Day 2 Pool-time and Burgers

5a Kids wake up, make pancakes (and coffee) in room

7a Adult Breakfast pickup (or dine in) at Duke’s

8a Pool opens!

11a Back to room for lunch

12p Naptime

2:30p Drive to Ritz in Kapalua and have Linner at Burger Shack (it’s a big meal to fill up on). Must order: burger and milkshake

4p Explore Ritz and Kapalua or go to DT Fleming beach

6p Back to Hotel for Bedtime

Pipiwai Trail With Baby in Carrier

Day 3 Road to Hana Adventure

5:30a Kids wake up - make more pancakes for everyone (and another pot of coffee)

6:30a Drive the Road to Hana

8a Stretch legs at Banana Bread Stop

9a Arrive at Kīpahulu Visitor Center which is part of Haleakala National Park where you can explore the Oheo Gulch Pools, Pipiwai Trail (Bamboo Forest), and Waimoku Falls

11a Eat a packed lunch or drive to the Food Trucks in Hana

1p Stop at Wainapanapa Beach (Black Sand Beach) - make a reservation ahead of time.

3p Drive back to hotel

5p Dinner at hotel or pick up something on the way back

6p Bedtime

Day 4 - Pool and Luau

6a Kids wake up

7a Breakfast at Slappy Cakes or The Gazebo

8a Kapalua Bay for beach time, maybe try the coastal walk

11a Back to room for lunch

12p Naptime

2:30p Quick Pool Play

5p Luau at Hyatt or Sheraton

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)

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Sticker Tape Road and Travel Magnatiles keep them entertained in the hotel room

What to Pack for Maui With Kids

I think giving a list of what not to pack is a shorter list because we bring almost everything! One thing I will advise is there is a Costco and a Target by the airport so make your Target order for pickup before your flight takes off so it’s ready for you when you land. You can always Instacart Costco or just head in for free snacks.

Here is a copy paste of what I packed for my 2 and 4-year-old on our last trip.

Shop our Toddler Packing Amazon list.

Carry-on Plane

• Personal Carry-on:

  • Toys & some books

  • iPad

  • Headphones 🎧

  • Waterbottles

• Wagon - We bring a wagon instead of a stroller these days now that the kids are older. Though we loved our travel stroller for when we had babies!

• Snack Bag - Dedicated light weight backpack that folds up into a pouch

  • Pouches

  • That’s it bars

  • Pirate booty

  • Cereal Bars from Trader Joes

  • Bear Fruit Snacks

  • Teddy Grahams

Here is the full list of everything else that scatters into multiple bags:

Sleep 

• Inflatable bed x 2

• Sheets x 2

• Blanket x 2

• Small Toddler pillows x 2

• PJs

• White noise / Hatch

Food Things

• Food bag

• Bowls 🥣

• Baby Spoons 🥄

• Bibs

• Water cup/bottle

• Milk cup

• Sippy cup

• Safe dish soap 🧼

• Sandwich bags

• Snack bowl

Travel and Misc

• Car seat x 2

• Car seat bags x 2

• Swaddle

• Clothes pins

• Outlet covers

• Beach bag

• Beach blanket mat

Toiletries for Kids

• Baby shampoo

• Baby body wash

• Soft Wash Cloths

• Nail clippers

• Brush

• Kids Tylenol

• Kids Sunscreen

• Diaper rash cream

• Baby Aquaphor/neosporin

• Ear drops

Clothes and diapers

• Sweatshirt for plane & Mainland airport travel

• Socks

• Shorts

• Shirts

• Swimwear

• Swim diapers

• Size 4 diapers

• Pull ups

• Overnight Diapers

• Wipes

• Hat

• Multipurpose Sanitation wipes in ziplock bag

Toys and Entertainment - Shop our Toddler Packing Amazon list

• Bath Toys - Cars 🚗

• Books 📚

• Sand toys 🏖️

• Football 🏈

• Frisbee

• Trucks 🛻

• Cars 🚙

• Sticker Road

• Plane toys - coloring book, sticker book

• Cards 🃏

• Travel Magnatiles

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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.

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More Maui Posts:

Chilly Chic & Cabernet Ready: Your Ultimate Napa Winter Packing List (Mustard Season Edition!)

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.

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Christmas outfit for Wine Tasting in Winter in Napa

The Golden Rules of Napa Winter Packing (Before We Dive In!):

1. 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.

2. 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.

3. The Vibe: It’s not "red carpet" and it’s not "farmhand." It’s Wine Country Chic.

4. Comfortable Chic is Key: You'll be walking, standing, and potentially even getting a little muddy. No sacrificing comfort for style here!

5. 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.

Shop our Amazon Shopping list! https://amzn.to/3YiZ1yy

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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!

Shop our Amazon Shopping list! https://amzn.to/3YiZ1yy

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!

Shop our Amazon Shopping list! https://amzn.to/3YiZ1yy

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!

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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!

Shop our Amazon Shopping list! https://amzn.to/3YiZ1yy

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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.

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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.

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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!

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Pin this post for your next Napa adventure!

What are your favorite winter packing tips? Share them in the comments below!

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More Napa tips:

A Curated Christmas in Napa: A Luxury 3-Day Guide to St. Helena & Yountville

Vines, Lights, and Luxury: Our Hallmark Movie Escape to St. Helena

We recently celebrated my 40th birthday just north of Napa in St. Helena and Yountville, and it was truly magical! Since my birthday is in December, the entire region was decorated for the holidays—it felt like walking onto a Hallmark movie set.

While many people flock to Napa in the summer or for Harvest Season, I wouldn’t trade this cozy, festive vibe for the world. The crowds are thinner, the vines are dormant (making way for the yellow mustard flowers!), and it’s much easier to snag reservations at luxury hotels and Michelin-starred restaurants.

Three days is the perfect amount of time to soak it all in. Here is our tried-and-true winter itinerary.

The Alila main building - front desk and restaurant

Day 1: Arrival and Fireside Luxury

Where to Stay: Alila Napa Valley

I actually teared up a little saying goodbye to our room at checkout. The Alila Napa Valley is the ultimate luxury retreat. Our balcony featured a private fire pit and a giant outdoor soaking tub with relaxing bath salts. The hotel's main building is a stunning Victorian, but the rooms are sleek, high-tech, and modern.

• Pro-Tip: This is a fantastic use of Hyatt Points if you’re a member!

Bath tub and fire pit on the Balcony of our Alila Hotel Room

Bouchon front Entrance in Yountville

Dinner: Bouchon (Yountville)

This wasn't our first time at a Bouchon, but it was our first time at the Yountville location. Since Thomas Keller is a local, his restaurants operate with absolute perfection. Our waiter even offered to take photos of us by the Christmas decorations!

• Must-Haves: The roasted chicken, the Mac n Cheese (trust me), and the profiteroles.

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Model Bakery Breakfast: Latte and English Muffin

Day 2: Historic Vines & "The Brightest Town"

Breakfast: Model Bakery

This St. Helena staple has been around since 1908 and is world-famous for its English Muffins (Oprah’s favorite!).

• Insider Hack: We ordered via Uber Eats and had them delivered to our Alila balcony to eat by the fire pit. It’s the perfect way to skip the line at the shop or the even longer line at Bouchon Bakery.

The warm English muffin didn’t disappoint, especially after being smothered in butter and strawberry jam!

Christmas in the Beringer Wine Caves

Wine Tasting: Beringer Vineyards

Don’t let the grocery store labels fool you—Beringer’s estate wines are high-end, exclusive, and incredible. You can book a tasting in the Rhine House, which feels like a Victorian Christmas dream or the cozy caves are decorated with lights and Christmas trees. We opted for the cave tour where Corey was our tour guide and was fantastic!

• The Bridge: If you stay at the Alila, there is a private bridge that lets you walk right into the Beringer vineyards.

• Christmas tree made out of wine barrels: The Beringer wine barrel Christmas tree is not located on the Beringer property but it is setup off a side street in St. Helena. If you’re on 128 or Main Street you’ll see the setup on Hunt Avenue which is currently closed for the display. It’s across from Model Bakery which I recommend getting a peppermint latte and frosted sugar cookie to add even more Christmas spirit!

St. Helena Beringer Wine Barrel Christmas Tree near Napa - Main Street 128 and Hunt Ave

Brew Bus at Burgers and Half Bottles Pop-up in Napa

Lunch: Burgers and Half Bottles Pop-up

We were lucky to catch this seasonal Thomas Keller pop-up. The menu featured Wagyu burgers, lobster rolls, and fried chicken sandwiches paired with half-bottles of wine.

• The Vibe: Grab a "Pliney" from the VW Brew Bus and enjoy the casual, festive atmosphere.

Handwritten Wines Tasting Room in Yountville

The Afternoon Stroll & Tasting: Handwritten Wines

Walk off lunch by exploring the Yountville Art Walk, which is beautifully lit for the holidays. Then, head to Handwritten Wines for a boutique, intimate "Side by Side" tasting. It’s a wonderful contrast to the grand scale of Beringer.

Ciccio Pizza - pepperoni with Hot Honey

Dinner: Ciccio

This spot is a local favorite. It has a cozy, lively, and unpretentious vibe that is perfect for a festive winter night out.

The pepperoni pizza with hot honey cannot be missed. It’s even good cold by the fire.

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Day 3: The Grand Finale

Breakfast: Model Bakery (Part 2!)

We loved it so much we walked down St. Helena’s Main Street to visit in person. They have a much larger menu in-store.

• Must-Have: The Chipotle Breakfast Sandwich (egg, pepper jack, tomato, and chipotle aioli).

Model Bakery is decked out with Christmas Decorations in St Helena

Last Minute Shopping: Browse the festively decorated boutiques on Main Street in St. Helena.

In the middle of town you can find a festive 36-foot Wine Barrel Christmas Tree (a major photo op).

7 Wine Barrel Tree Fun Facts

• 109 Wine Barrels Stacked

• Recycled Barrels Donated by Beringer Vineyards

• 10,500 Pounds - 36 Feet Tall

• Earthquake Proof

• 800 Feet of Garland Used

• Nearly 2600 Ornaments

• St. Helena Chamber of Commerce Designed the Tree with JCD Atmospheric Studios

This Christmas tree made of Beringer wine barrels can be found in St. Helena on Hunt Ave off Main Street 128.

St. Helena Wine Barrel Christmas Tree near Napa Valley

Lunch: Auberge du Soleil

Even on a foggy day, the view of the valley is breathtaking. This Michelin Star Restaurant didn’t disappoint! It’s a 2 or 3 course menu, so naturally I picked a main and dessert.

• The Food: The short rib with Cabernet sauce is decadent, and the Valrhona Guanaja Chocolate Fondant with mint ice cream is a chocolate lover's dream.

Auberge du Soleil Desserts by the fire

Final Stop: Kollar Chocolates

Before heading out, stop here for some edible art. Their truffles take three days to make and are incredibly intricate.

• Seasonal Treats: We loved the Peppermint Bark and the Chocolate Cinnamon truffle with the snowflake pattern.

Kollar Chocolates in Napa Valley (Yountville)

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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.

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

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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)

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! :)

New Year’s Eve Lanterns in Chiang Mai – Quick Guide

📍 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

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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

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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

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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!

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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.

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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)

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.

For just $3 get our Budget and Itinerary Template to plan your own Maui trip! Sample and packing list included!

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💰 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!

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Travel and Lodging Expenses

Getting to Maui can be a challenge depending on where you live. Luckily we fly direct from LAX to OGG.

1. Airline Ticket - United LAX-OGG roundtrip: $350 each (average)

2. Extra Legroom: $150 each

3. Checked Baggage: $35 (average price)

Total for air travel for the 2 of us: $1035

How to Save on Flights:

1. 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.

2. 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

1. 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.

2. 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

For just $3 get our Budget and Itinerary Template to plan your own Maui trip! Sample and packing list included!

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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!

Sale

Maui Budget, Itinerary and Packing list - How much does it cost to spend 5 days in Hawaii?

Sale Price: $2.00 Original Price: $3.00

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!

Add to cart

Still too expensive? Here are a few ways to save while in Maui:

1. Buy food, coffee, and beverages at the supermarket to make your own meals. Having a full kitchen at a condo is a plus!

2. 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!

3. 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.

4. 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.

5. 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!

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

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More Maui Travel Tips and Advice:

How to Make a Sugar Cookie Gingerbread House (Recipe and Template 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 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 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!

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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

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Shop this Post:

Baking Essentials

• Stand Mixer

• Silicone Baking Mats

• Cooling Racks

• Rolling Pin

• Parchment Paper Sheets

• Cookie Cutter Set

Decorating Tools

• Piping Bags + Tips

• Edible Glitter Decorations

• Holiday Sprinkles

• Icing Scraper

• Food Coloring Gel Pack

Display & Extras

• Gingerbread House Display Board

• LED Fairylights (fun lights outside or inside!)

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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. 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 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.

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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!

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 supporting this little Christmas dream of mine!

Link here: https://amzn.to/48b4rBo

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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.

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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.

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 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

1. Plan ahead and figure out where your house is going to live (because it is hard to move it)

2. Put parchment paper down or directly on the plate

3. Make an Icing base for the front of the house and stick it down. Lean it against the soup can.

4. Add frosting to the bottom of sides of the house and along the side that will connect to the front.

5. Carefully and gently push the side into place, do the same with the other side.

6. Line the bottom and sides of your back with frosting and connect to the house.

7. Let it set for 10 mins or so before applying the roof.

8. 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.

9. 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!

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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.

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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.

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Let me know if you attempt to make this or if you like this post in the comments below!

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

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Cute Christmas Trucks, Free iPhone Wallpapers & a Holiday Book Your Kids Will Love

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:

1. Anything involving Christmas

2. 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.)

The Trucks that Saved Christmas

By Cregg, Kathleen

Buy on Amazon

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🚒 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).

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🎁 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

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🌈 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

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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.

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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. ❤️🎄🚒

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Like this post?! Share it with everyone you know!

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Must-Read Christmas Truck Stories for Toddlers & Preschoolers (Holiday Favorites 2025)

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.

The Trucks that Saved Christmas

By Cregg, Kathleen

Buy on Amazon

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

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Construction Site Merry and Bright: A Christmas Lift-the-Flap Book (Goodnight Construction Site)

By Rinker, Sherri Duskey

Buy on Amazon

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!

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Little Blue Truck's Christmas: Great for Holiday and Christmas Reading or Gifting

By Schertle, Alice

Buy on Amazon

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.

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Where Do Diggers Celebrate Christmas? (Where Do...Series)

By Sayres, Brianna Caplan

Buy on Amazon

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.

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Wreck the Halls

By Rathjen, Melinda Lee

Buy on Amazon

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.

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Santa's Christmas Train

By James, Helen Foster

Buy on Amazon

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.

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Bulldozer's Christmas Dig (The Bulldozer Books)

By Fleming, Candace

Buy on Amazon

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.

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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.

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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.

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If you like this list, please share this to Pinterest or your favorite social media outlet.

I Wrote a Children’s Christmas Book!

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.

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.

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. 🚒🎁🎄

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

Honua Kai Resort - The Maui Condo That Feels Like a Full Luxury Resort

Honua Kai Resort & Spa Review: The Maui Condo That Feels Like a Full Luxury Resort

With over 10 years of annual visits to Maui, Hawaii, and staying at a variety of places, Honua Kai Resort & Spa is our favorite place to stay! We’ve stayed there more than 5 times now, the first time was a month long stay before baby, the second stay was with baby and family (8 people in a 3 bedroom), in-laws and us with our 2 kiddos, and last few stays were just the 4 of us in a one bedroom. Looking for the best Airbnb or VRBO rental in Maui? Honua Kai is great for families, couples, or a friend-cation, it even accommodates large groups.

Honua Kai is a condominium resort complex on Ka'anapali Beach. The decision you need to make is whether to book a condo through the on-site property manager, Outrigger, or through an independent property management company or owner.

We typically like to book through Maui Resort Rentals: https://www.mauiresortrentals.com/rental/honua-kai-hokulani-538#gallery-1

We can find great prices, amazing units, and we love the amenities and service they provide!

Here are 10 excellent reasons why we would go back again and again…

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3-Bedroom Condo at Honua Kai - Ocean Decor

1. The resort feeling is real!

   The giant pool area, location next to the ocean, general store/smoothie/coffee shop, and spa on premises, makes a perfect vacation. Honestly, it felt like staying at a hotel except the room was a suite with a full kitchen, washer/dryer, but no housekeeping service. We don’t typically have our room made up anyway so it was perfect. If you want housekeeping daily you can book through Outrigger, you just won’t be able to pick which unit you want.

   Honua Kai Resort & Spa is my favorite option when traveling with babies, toddlers, and or kids! Having a full kitchen and a washer and dryer is so handy as you never know what mess they’ll make!

   Speaking of kids and toddlers, check out my top 10 things that I bring for every vacation with the kiddos! You won’t want to miss these toys or snacks: https://www.thesweetestescapes.com/blog/10-things-toddler-travel

More Coastal Decor at Honua Kai Condo

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2. Lots of room combos for any family size.

There are studios, 1 bedrooms, 2 bedrooms and 3 bedrooms. The 1 bedroom was perfect for us so I could work in one room and there was still somewhere for Josh to go watch TV or sit on the patio. We stayed in a 3 bedroom when Josh’s family met us in Maui, Room 351 is gorgeous with ocean views and has a cute coastal theme!

Book through Maui Resort Rentals for great service and a great price. Be sure to consider what pool you may be visiting the most or if you want to be near stairs or elevators for convenience. You can also check out the views of each room on the website so you know exactly what you’ll be looking at (mountain or ocean view).

Maui Resort Rentals: https://www.mauiresortrentals.com/rental/honua-kai-hokulani-538#gallery-1

Honua Kai Bedroom 1

Honua Kai Bedroom 2

Honua Kai Bedroom 3

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Room views from our Honua Kai 3 bedroom balcony

3. The patios at Honua Kai are amazing!

The patios are large and where we spent most of our time in our room when we weren’t sleeping! We had all meals out there and I even worked (WFH = Work From Hawaii) out there for most days. Depending on which side of the building you’re on, you might get a sunrise or sunset, or both! I enjoyed having coffee in the morning and watching the whales breach the surface. Whales are only seen late October-March.

October is also a relatively good month to book for less crowds and cheaper prices (compared to spring/summer)! See more great reasons to book in October: https://www.thesweetestescapes.com/blog/maui-october

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Outrigger Honua Kai Water Slide in Pool

4. The Pool!

The pool area at Honua Kai is like a resort, complete with water slide, lazy river type pool (it doesn’t really flow but you can walk/swim it), splash pad and 1/2 foot kiddie pools! Lots of chairs and areas to lounge poolside.

There are even servers that come by to bring drinks and food from Duke’s so you can have a Mai Tai and Hula Pie at the pool!

We rented a cabana that was big enough for our family party of 8 to hang out in. If you pick the right cabana, you can even have a private pool entrance!

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Honua Kai has an Adults Only Pool

5. Beach Access

The beach is also right in front of the hotel and because we booked our room with Maui Resort Rentals, we had Tommy Bahama chairs and an umbrella provided in the room and ready to use.

Note: not all rooms have umbrellas.

There is a paved walking path that is just before the sand so that you can walk along to the neighboring properties or even all the way to Black Rock and Kaanapali! It’s about a mile and a half to Whaler’s Village.

Maui Resort Rentals: https://www.mauiresortrentals.com/rental/honua-kai-hokulani-538#gallery-1

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Hoola Spa Closed at Outrigger Honua Kai in October 2025

6. The Spa!

It wouldn’t be called Honua Kai Resort & spa without the spa!

The Ho’ōla spa on premises was the perfect for my 90 minute massage! There aren’t a lot of bells and whistles to this place like Burke Williams, but you have a private room with an excellent massage therapist! They do have showers and lockers for your post relaxation needs.

UPDATE: the Hoola Spa closed October 2025! I do recommend the Sheraton’s Spa!

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7. Whaler’s General Store

Not only is there a convenience store but there are also baristas and smoothie-ologists. Ok, I made the smoothie-ologist word up, but they make good, fresh smoothies!

Their mac nut latte is the perfect start to any day (or afternoon)!

There was another coffee shop on the property but it closed about a year ago.

8. Gym

There’s also a really nice gym, though I prefer to go for a run out on the paved path along the beach!

9. Hotel Treatment

There is valet service, as well as bellhops, like a true resort. They are super helpful for guests or checking-in.

If you’re looking for adventure, there’s even a concierge to help you book excursions!

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Hula Pie at Duke’s is a MUST have!

10. Duke’s Beach House Maui

Between the pool and the ocean you will find a famous restaurant called Duke’s!

Why is Duke’s so special? Well, of course it has to do with ice cream! The Hula Pie is a must - Macadamia nut ice cream with a cookie crust topped with fudge, whipped cream and more macadamia nuts!

They are open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner!

May I recommend the breakfast burrito and pork Benedict for breakfast!

See all of our favorite restaurants here: https://www.thesweetestescapes.com/blog/10-best-restaurants-maui-hawaii

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Aloha and Until Next Time

After all these years and all those different stays—from a romantic month-long trip to fun family reunions—it’s clear why Honua Kai Resort & Spa holds the top spot on our list of Maui accommodations. It truly offers the best of both worlds: the spacious convenience of a fully-equipped vacation rental paired with the luxurious amenities of a high-end resort. Whether you’re sipping coffee on the expansive patio while watching whales breach, floating near the epic pool complex, or enjoying a slice of Hula Pie at Duke's, Honua Kai Resort & Spa creates the kind of effortless, relaxing vacation that keeps you coming back for more. So, if you’re looking for a perfect home base for your next West Maui adventure, stop scrolling through listings and book your suite. We'll probably see you there!

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

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10 Reasons the Best time of Year to Visit Maui is October

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

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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

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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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More posts!

10 Must-Have Road Trip Essentials for Happy Toddlers

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

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That's it. Mini Fruit Bars Gift Pouch (Variety 36 Count) No Sugar Added, Plant-Based, Vegan & Gluten Free, Paleo, Non GMO, Fiber (12 Banana, 12 Blueberry, 12 Mango)

That's it.

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.

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Munchkin Snack Catcher Toddler Snack Cups, No Spill, 2 Pack, Blue/Green

Munchkin

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!

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Horizon Group USA Bluey Sticker Playset, 2 Sticker Play Scenes, 35+ Reusable Puffy Bluey Repositionable Stickers for Kids, Perfect for Travel, Screen-Free Fun

Horizon Group USA

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.

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Lamicall Car Headrest Tablet Holder - [3 in 1 Extension Arm] Adjustable Tablet Car Mount for Back Seat, Road Trip Essentials for Kids, for 4.7-11" Device Like iPad Pro, Air, Mini, Galaxy, Fire, Black

Lamicall

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).

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Cartwheel Books Language Skills Vehicles 50 First Words Flashcards: Scholastic Early Learners (Flashcards)

By Scholastic

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.

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Disney Frozen, Cars, Dory, Nemo, and More! - Movie Adventures Look and Find Activity Book with Stickers - PI Kids

By Pi Kids

6. Books (The Timeless Tranquilizers)

Even in the age of screens, a good old-fashioned book is a lifesaver.

I pack touch-and-feel books for my younger adventurer (who mostly just touches every page anyway).

For my older tot, it's all about Spidey books, the Little Blue Truck, or anything Disney - the look and find series is great because there is a small story and a where’s Waldo type game to it!

See more book ideas HERE

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KINMAC Inflatable Toddler Travel Bed- Portable Travel Toddler Air Bed for Kids Camping Air Mattress Racecar Toddler Bed with Sides Blow Up Mattress Sleeping Pad for Camping Car Travel Sleeping(Green)

KINMAC

7. Inflatable Race Car Bed or Slumberpod (Your Mobile Sleep Sanctuary)

Okay, so this isn't for the car ride itself, but for your destination! If your crib-dweller can sleep in a pack-n-play, the Slumberpod is your new best friend. It’s a blackout tent that cocoons the pack-n-play, letting your littles sleep longer and allowing you to move around the room without becoming a giant, interesting distraction.

I borrowed an inflatable Race Car bed from my sister and have now used it more than she has, taking it all over the place. I thought my littles were going to pop it, but it’s surprisingly durable. It's compact and easy to inflate/deflate – a true throwback to my '90s blow-up furniture days! It even comes with a pump and plug for the wall or cigarette lighter!

Don't forget, you’ll also need:

• Toddler Bed Fitted Sheet (bring two just in case, toddlers are messy!)

• Toddler Pillow

• Toddler Pillowcase

• A Cozy Blanket

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PicassoTiles 80pc Mini Travel Size Magnetic Tiles Building Blocks Construction Build STEM Learning On The Go Vacation Toy Set Birthday Gifting Classroom Magnet Tile Kit Educational Ages 3 and up PTM80

Picassotiles

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.

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3 Rolls Roadway Tape, Race Cars Decorations for Kids Birthday Party, Race Track Tape Easy to Stick and Tear Without Leaving Any Traces, 2 Inch Wide 49 FT Long 2 Types of Road Tape

Quadafy

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).

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Hatch Rest Baby Sound Machine, Night Light | 2nd Gen | Registry Essential, Sleep Trainer, Routine Builder, Time-to-Rise Alarm Clock, White Noise Soother, Nursery Stories, Toddler Kids Bedroom (Wi-Fi)

Hatch Baby

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.

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Some extras goodies that we pack for EVERY trip:

For a family of 4 (including 2 toddlers at almost 2 and 3.5 years old), we packed:

Eddie Bauer Stowaway Packable Duffel Bag| Travel | Foldable | Lightweight | Durable | Ripstop Polyester | 23" Length | 45L Capacity - Onyx Black

5 Horizons Group, LLC

Cosco Onlook 2-in-1 Convertible Car Seat, Rear-Facing 5-40 pounds and Forward-Facing 22-40 pounds and up to 43 inches, Vibrant Blue

Dorel Juvenile Group

• 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 Cosco Car Seats - infant and toddler

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

• diaper bag

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

BEAU JARDIN Folding Push & Pull Beach Wagon 500 lbs Collapsible Foldable Wagons with Push Handle All Terrain Wheels Grocery Utility Camping Sports Garden Wagon Cart Black

BEAU JARDIN

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!

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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:

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Here are a few more toddler travel tips:

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

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

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!

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

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Download our Fun Ice Cream Holidays Calendar here

Fun Ice Cream and Holidays

Who knew there could be so many sweet holidays?! Download our FREE printable Fun Ice Cream Calendar

January

• National Chocolate Covered Cherry Day - January 3rd

• National Whipped Cream Day - January 5th

• National Milk Day - Jan 11th

• National Strawberry Ice Cream Day - January 15th

• National Blonde Brownie Day - January 22nd

• National Pie Day - January 23rd

• National Peanut Butter Day - January 24th 

February

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

• National Dark Chocolate Day - February 1st

• National Carrot Cake Day - February 3rd

• National Chocolate Fondue Day - February 5th 

• World Nutella Day - February 5th 

• National Frozen Yogurt Day - February 6th

• Chocolate Mint Day - February 19th

March

• National Peanut Butter Lovers Day - March 1st

• National Oreo Cookie Day - Mar 6th

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

• National Pi Day - Pie day! March 14th

April

• National Chocolate Mousse Day - April 3rd

• National Caramel Popcorn Day - April 7th

• National Peach Cobbler Day - April 13th

• National Pineapple Upside Down Cake Day - April 20th

• National Jelly Bean Day - April 22nd

• National Cherry Cheesecake Day - April 23rd

May

• National Apple Pie Day - May 13th

• National Chocolate Chip Day - May 15th

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

• National Taffy Day - May 23rd

June

• National Donut Day - first Friday in June

• National Chocolate Ice Cream Day - June 7th

• National Fudge Day - June 16th

• First Day of Summer - June 20th

July

• July is National Ice Cream Month!

• National Strawberry Sundae Day - July 7th

• National Sugar Cookie Day - July 9th

• National Free Slurpee Day - July 11th

• Cow Appreciation Day - July 14th

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

• National Vanilla Ice Cream Day - July 23rd

• National Hot Fudge Sundae Day - July 25th

• National Coffee Milkshake Day - July 26th

• National Cheesecake Day - July 30th

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

August

• National Ice Cream Sandwich Day - August 2nd

• National Chocolate Chip Cookie Day - August 4th

• National Sponge Cake Day - August 23rd

• National Waffle Day - August 24th 

• National Banana Split Day - August 25th

September

• National Chocolate Milkshake Day - September 12th

• National Ice Cream Cone Day - September 22nd 

• National White Chocolate Day - September 22nd

• National Cherries Jubilee Day - September 24th 

• National Coffee/Starbucks Day - September 29th

October 

• International Coffee Day - October 1st 

• National Homemade Cookies Day - October 1st 

• National Cinnamon Roll Day - October 4th

• National Frappe Day - October 7th 

• National Cake Decorating Day - October 10th 

• National M&M Day - October 13th 

• National Dessert Day - October 14th

• World Food Day - October 16th 

• Sweetest Day - October 17th

• National Chocolate Cupcake Day - October 18th

• National Boston Cream Pie Day - October 23rd 

• National Chocolate Day - October 28th

• National Candy Corn Day - October 30th 

• Halloween/ National Caramel Apple Day - October 31st

November

• National Candy Day - November 4th

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

• National Vanilla Cupcake Day - November 10th 

• National Sundae Day - November 11th 

• National Cake Day - November 25th

• National French Toast Day - November 28th 

• National Lemon Cream Pie Day - November 29th 

December

• National Cookie Day - December 4th

• Gingerbread House Day - December 12th 

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

• National Cupcake Day - December 15th

• National Chocolate Covered Anything Day - December 16th 

• National Cookie Exchange Day - December 22nd 

• National Candy Cane Day - December 26th 

• National Chocolate Candy Day - December 28th

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

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

By Press, JoKa

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Best Ice Cream Joke

Silly Ice Cream Jokes - Good for Kids!

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

• A: Sundae school!

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

• A: Because he was stuffed! 

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

• A: They have a soft serve.

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

• A: Ice Cream 

• Q: How did Reese eat her ice cream? 

• A: Witherspoon.

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

• A: Pi a'la mode.

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

• A: Because of the Rocky Road.

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

• “Sure Burt!”

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

• A: You scream

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

• A: Sundae!!

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

• A: In a woofle cone!

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

• A: It spent the day chill-axing!

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

• A: It went to a Rocky Road!
  
  

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

• A: It always got a scoop!

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

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Ice Cream Puns

• You Got Soft Served.

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

• You are the sprinkles to my ice cream.

• We are mint for each other. 

• Ice cream makes everything better.

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

• Go Shawty, It’s Sherbert Day.

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

• Life’s better with a cherry on top.

• I’m A Big Softie.

• If you believe, anything is popsicle.

• Game Of Cones.

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

• Peace, love, and ice cream.

• In-Cone-Ceivable!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Inspirational Ice Cream Quotes

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Ice Cream Movie Quotes and Memorable Television Scenes

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Ice Cream Songs and Lyrics

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Updated: 7/20/25

When is National Ice Cream Day?

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

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

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

Throw an Ice Cream Social

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

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

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

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

Try our favorite Ice Cream Word Search!

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

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

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

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

7-Eleven - Free Slurpee

The Scoop: Free Slurpee in any 7-eleven shop

When: 7-11

Wanderlust Creamery

16 Handles - Free Soft-serve!

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

When: Sunday, July 20

Baskin-Robbins - $5 off

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

When: July 20–26

BJ's Restaurant and Brewhouse - Free Pizookie

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

Blue Ribbon - Giveaway

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

Breyers - BOGO

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

Bubbies Ice Cream - BOGO

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

When: July 2 through July 15

Burger King - Free Soft Serve

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

When: Sunday, July 20

Carvel - Free Topping and $5 reward

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

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

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

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

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

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

Extra Scoop: AMAZING Giveaways!

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

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

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

Creamistry - 10% off

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

Dairy Queen - Free Dilly Bar

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

When: July 14 - 20

Dippin Dots - Free Mini Cups

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

When: July 20

Dunkin’ Donuts - Discount and Double Points

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

When: July 20

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

eCreamery Ice Cream - $15 off

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

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

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

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

Friendly’s - Free Cone!

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

When: July 18-20

Ghirardelli Chocolate Company - Discounted Sundae

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

When: Friday, July 25

Gopuff - deals!

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

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

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

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

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

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

Graeter’s - Free Cones!

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

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

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

Halo Top: Got An Ice Cream-Inspired Name?

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

When: July 14 to July 21

Handel’s Homemade Ice Cream - Free Ice Cream

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

When: July 20

Humphrey Slocombe - Giveaway and Buy Two Pints Get One Free

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

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

When: July 1-7

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

When: Hurry, offer ends July 16th!

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

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

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

Summer Flavors:

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

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

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

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

When: July 20

Kilwins - Sweepstakes

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

When: From July 20-31

Klondike Bar - Digital Coupons

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

Marble Slab Creamery - Free Scoop!

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

When: July 20

McDonald's

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

When: thru 8/11

Milk Bar

The Scoop: new Lemon Meringue Pie Soft Serve available!

 My/Mochi - Great giveaways!

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

Petco - Free pup cups!

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

When: July 20

Popsicle - BOGO

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

When: All July long

Salt and Straw - Free Scoop!

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

When: July 14-20

Smitten Ice Cream

Smitten Ice Cream - Free Ice Cream

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

When: July 10 4-6pm

Steak 'N Shake - 1/2 Price

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

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

Talenti - BOGO

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

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

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

TCBY

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

Van Leeuwen Kraft Macaroni and cheese ice cream

Van Leeuwen - Discount Scoops and Giveaways

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

This is your summer flavor itinerary:

• Strawberry Yuzu Cheesecake

• Sweet Corn & Blueberry Jam

• Mango Sorbet

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

• City Point, Brooklyn (NY) - July 10

• Ponce City Market, Atlanta (GA)

• Hoboken (NJ)

• Northshore Mall (MA)

• Brooklyn Heights, Brooklyn (NY)

Wendy’s - Free Frosty

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

Whole Foods/Instacart

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

When: July 2-16

Yogurtland - Double Points

The Scoop: Earn double points in store or online!

When: July 20

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

When: Through July 13

Your Pie Pizza - FREE Scoop!

The Scoop: Free Gelato scoop today!

When: July 20

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

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

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

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

Bruster’s Christmas in July Celebration

Bruster’s Real Ice Cream - Rancho Cucamunga

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

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

The Scoop: Loyalty members get double points

When: National Ice Cream Weekend July 18-20th

Carmela Ice Cream Co

Capri Gelato and Coffee

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

Fosselman’s Ice Cream

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

Frozen Fruit Co

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

When: Available until this Friday

McConnell’s Fine Ice Creams

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

Use code SMS5 for $5 off your first order

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

• Santa Barbara - both State Street locations

• Downtown Los Angeles

• Studio City

• Third Street Promenade

• San Luis Obispo

• San Juan Capistrano

• Carlsbad

Rori's Artisanal Creamery - Extra Scoop!

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

When: Sunday, July 20

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

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

• Montecito: 12 - 7p.m.

• Santa Barbara: 12 - 7p.m.

• Santa Monica: 12 - 7p.m.

• Carpinteria: 11a.m. - 7p.m.

• Camarillo: 12 - 5p.m.

• Arroyo Grande: 12 - 7p.m.

• Ventura: 12 - 7p.m.

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

SWEET ROSE CREAMERY

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

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

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

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

Locations: Brentwood, Hollywood, Santa Monica, Venice

Wanderlust Creamery

Wanderlust Creamery - BOGO

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

When: Sunday, July 20

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NATIONAL ICE CREAM DAY EVENTS

Sprinkle Pool - Museum of Ice Cream Los Angeles

MUSEUM OF ICE CREAM 

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

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

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

ICE CREAM ALLEY at Smorgasburg LA

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

Find a rotating crew of special popup vendors like:

• Jeni's Splendid Ice Creams

• Sweet Rose Creamery

• McConnell's Fine Ice Creams

• Blast Ice Cream

• Afters Ice Cream

• Madame Shugah (all vegan)

• And more!

Plus Smorgasburg LA regulars:

• Wanderlust Creamery

• Donut Friend (all vegan)

• Yellow Business - HK Egg Waffle

• Churro Boss

• Sweet n' Hollow

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

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

ICE CREAM DELIVERY ON NATIONAL ICE CREAM DAY

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

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

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MAKE YOUR OWN ICE CREAM OR THROW AN ICE CREAM SOCIAL

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

Every good scoop from home deserves a good scooper!

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

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Afters Ice Cream

Brief History of National Ice Cream Day

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

Now, let's EAT! 

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

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

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

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MORE ICE CREAM POSTS? Yes PLEASE!!!

Hotel Review: InterContinental the Clement Monterey by IHG

InterContinental the Clement Monterey by IHG Entrance and Valet

InterContinental Clement Monterey: Where Grown-Up Zen Meets Toddler-Friendly Fun!

Address: 750 Cannery Row, Monterey, CA 93940

Remember those glorious, kid-free days when you'd waltz into a swanky hotel, sip fancy cocktails, and just exist? Yeah, neither do I. But fear not, fellow parent warriors! We recently revisited the InterContinental the Clement Monterey by IHG – first as carefree adults, and then as a tag-team duo with two energetic toddlers in tow. And guess what? Both experiences were pure magic! (Well, as magical as it gets when you're traveling with tiny humans.)

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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).

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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

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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.

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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

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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

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There is also a full spa if you want to get your massage on. Mama didn’t have time this trip, but next time will be a different story. Hubs can play Pebble Beach as long as Mom gets a spa day!

So, whether you're looking for a peaceful escape or a fun-filled family adventure, the InterContinental the Clement Monterey manages to pull off both with quirky charm and undeniable comfort. Ready to book your next Bay Area escape?

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

The back of the hotel

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

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

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

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

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

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

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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.

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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.

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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

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Fun Things to do in Marina del Rey

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

• Hang out at the beach

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

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

• Walk or bike to Santa Monica Pier

• Bike the scenic paths around the Marina

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

1. The Ritz-Carlton, Marina del Rey

2. Marina del Rey Marriott

3. Marina del Rey Hotel

4. Jamaica Bay Inn

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

6. Hilton Garden Inn Los Angeles Marina Del Rey

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

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

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

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

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Hope you have a happy and safe 4th!

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