1. Orlando, Florida

• Why Go: Home to Walt Disney World and Universal Studios, Orlando is a wonderland for kids and the young-at-heart.
• Highlight: The Wizarding World of Harry Potter for a magical experience.
• Itinerary: 6 Days in Orlando with Grandparents

Traveling to Orlando, Florida, with your grandchildren can be an enchanting experience, as this city is famously tailored for family adventures. Known as the theme park capital of the world, Orlando offers a magical blend of entertainment and wonder that delights both young and old.

Theme parks like Walt Disney World and Universal Studios are a must-visit for their array of attractions catering to all age groups, from thrilling roller coasters to enchanting character experiences.

Beyond the theme parks, explore Orlando’s other family-friendly offerings like the Orlando Science Center, Gatorland, or a relaxing day at Discovery Cove.

Remember to schedule downtime to enjoy Orlando’s sunny weather, perhaps with a day by the pool or a stroll through the beautiful Leu Gardens.

Accommodations in Orlando range from budget-friendly hotels to luxury resorts, many of which offer family suites and kid-friendly amenities.

Dining in Orlando is an adventure in itself, with a variety of options from themed restaurants to casual eateries.

2. Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming

3. Washington, D.C.

4. San Diego, California

5. New York City, New York

6. Grand Canyon, Arizona

7. Branson, Missouri

8. Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, Hawaii

9. Williamsburg, Virginia

10. Anchorage, Alaska

11. San Francisco, California

12. Colorado Springs, Colorado

13. Boston, Massachusetts

14. Savannah, Georgia

15. Chicago, Illinois

16. Asheville, North Carolina

17. New Orleans, Louisiana

18. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

19. Monterey, California

20. Mackinac Island, Michigan

21. Portland, Oregon

22. Oahu, Hawaii

23. Panama City Beach, Florida

24. Dallas, Texas

25. San Antonio, Texas

26. Bend, Oregon

Conclusion

The post 26 Best Places to Vacation with Grandkids in the United States appeared first on Mommy Travels.

At this point, I’ve traveled extensively with my teens and tween and unfortunately, I know firsthand how stressful things can suddenly become because they are not having a good time on the trip. There are few things worse than a moody teenager on vacation that does not want to participate in any of the activities.

For a while, I gave up and let my oldest kid sit in the hotel room while the rest of us had fun, but eventually, I realized I needed to change the type of trips we were taking. Our trips needed to be way more exciting and physically active, especially if they’ve been stuck in the car on a road trip. With these two things in mind, here are my picks for the top US vacation for teens and tweens.

Top 9 Destinations for Teens and Tweens in the United States

Oahu

Oahu is an epic place to take tweens and teens year-round. The weather is consistently good and there is much to do, especially if your family enjoys water sports. Some suggested activities in Oahu that teens will likely appreciate are:

• Para-sailing
• Visiting North Shore and learning to surf
• Paddle-boarding up the Anahulu River to watch the sea turtles
• Hiking to the top of Diamond Head
• Kayaking from Lanikai Beach out to Moku Nui Island and back. 
• Hike Maunawili Falls – This hike takes you deep into the jungle, where you cross a river twice, and at the end, you are rewarded with a waterfall, and if they are brave enough, cliff jumping.

If possible, I highly recommend staying at Disney’s Aulani Resort and Spa. This resort has a teen program that your kids will actually want to go to. They get to participate in physical challenges, take animation classes, learn to play the ukulele, have parties just for them, and more. While your kids are off doing their own thing, you have peace of mind knowing that they are safe and having fun.

See our Oahu Travel Guide to help you plan your entire trip! If you are staying in Waikiki check out our 4 Days in Waikiki itinerary.

Kauai, Hawaii is also fantastic if you want something less mainstream.

Vail

Whether you visit in the summer or in the winter, tweens and teens will love Vail, Colorado.

In the summer, teens can zip line and adventure through multiple ropes courses at Epic Discovery up on the mountain. Plus, there are other activities like horseback riding, white water rafting, and mountain biking.

During the winter, tweens and teens can spend their time skiing and snowboarding across the massive mountain. Vail has free public transportation that’s easy to use, allowing kids to have a little independence roaming around on their own.

See our Vail, Colorado Travel Guide to help you plan your trip or our 4-Day Vail Itinerary. Our favorite place to stay in Vail is Sonnenalp Hotel. 

Universal Orlando

Universal Orlando houses many of the best roller coasters in the United States and has two extensive Harry Potter areas. Teens and tweens will love riding all the intense roller coasters. If your kids are like mine and want to ride the same roller coaster over and over, consider purchasing an Express Pass. This line pass will allow you to bypass almost every line there is in all three of the parks, which means there will be plenty of time to ride everything at least twice.

Recently, Universal Orlando added a water park, Volcano Bay. There are rarely any lines and you do not have to cart around your own raft or tubes for the slides. They’ve made using the water park easy, and with teens and tweens, the easier the better!

A nice plus is the city of Orlando, because when you are done hanging out at Universal, Orlando has lots of other things to do. Kids of all ages will get a kick out of taking a Wild Florida airboat out on the swamps and seeing alligators. Oh, and there’s always Disney World.  

Las Vegas

Las Vegas is not somewhere most think to take teenagers, but it is one of the most visited tourist destinations in the United States and there’s lots to do for all ages. Give the kids a thrill at the indoor skydiving facility or zip lining off the Rio casino at VooDoo Zip.

Other fun things to do include Gameworks, the massive indoor gaming facility, rocking climbing out at the Red Rocks, ATVing, and hanging out at some of the incredible hotel pools. The Wet N’ Wild in Las Vegas also has some extreme water rides. Teens will also like most of the Cirque Du Soleil shows in town. You can currently get Cirque Du Soleil discount tickets up to 50% off one of their shows in Vegas.

For more recommendations on planning a trip to Vegas with kids, see my article: Tons of Activities for Teenagers in Las Vegas.  Here is a sample itinerary: Five Days in Las Vegas with Kids, our extensive Las Vegas Travel Guide, and our hotel recommendations 11 Best Kid-Friendly Las Vegas Hotels.

San Antonio

San Antonio, Texas is jammed packed with activities. They have two major theme parks, Six Flags and Sea World, not to mention one of the most extensive water parks in the world, Schlitterbahn. The nice thing is, teenagers can basically run off and do their own thing in all of these theme parks. Even along the River Walk, kids can go explore all on their own. While they shop around, parents can take a break over a drink and enjoy the River Walk in a slightly more grown-up way.

San Antonio also has a fantastic zoo, but you will want to skip it if the temperature is over 100 degrees outside. Instead, lather on the sunscreen and go float down the Comel River or Guadalupe River.

In San Antonio, I recommend staying at Hotel Emma.

Plan your entire trip with our San Antonio Travel Guide.

Panama City Beach

Another teen favorite in Florida is Panama City Beach. The beach has soft, powdery, white sand. It isn’t as big as many of the beach towns, but that doesn’t mean there isn’t a lot to do.

Go mini-golfing and go-carting, spend the day at the beach, or shop around at Pier Park. Spend one day bopping around Scenic 30A, where you will find tiny beach towns like Seaside or Rosemary. Renting some bicycles is a perfect way to explore this area. Another interesting spot worth venturing out to is Sandestin’s Baytowne Wharf. Here, families can indulge in boutique shopping, zip-lining, ropes courses, an arcade, and unique eateries.

Use our Panama City Beach travel guide to plan your entire vacation.

Bend, Oregon

Bend, Oregon is another destination that is fantastic in the summer and in the winter. Year-round they have some of the best off-roading in the state!

During the summer, families will get a charge out of kayaking, white water rafting, and hiking. If your kids have never white water rafted before, take them down the Big Eddy. They will get a small taste of major rapids without being tossed around too terribly. Nearby, in Sunriver, there is a small water park and a little village to shop in.

During the winter you can ski and snowboard on Mt. Bachelor, and there’s an outdoor ice skating rink in Sunriver.

Read our Bend, Oregon Travel Guide to help plan your family vacation. Tetherow Lodge is our favorite place to stay in Bend.

NYC

There are a lot of things to do for this age group in New York City year-round. During the winter season, everyone can ice skate for free in Bryant Park and shop at all the little shops that are set up temporarily. Plus, you can witness the acclaimed Rockettes performing and many other Christmas shows.

All year long, visitors can enjoy the major landmarks and attractions here, like seeing the Statue of Liberty or visiting Ground Zero. Once kids are age 10 and up they are old enough to go through the September 11th Memorial, and old enough to appreciate, or at least sit through, a Broadway show.

We’ve been to NYC more times than we can remember. Check out our New York City Travel Guide to help you plan your own epic NYC getaway! I’ve also put together a 3-Day NYC Itinerary with Teens and a Mother Daughter New York City Weekend Getaway guide.

Palm Springs, California

Take teens on an adventure trip in Palm Springs with activities like four-wheelers or Jeep tours. Despite it being almost 100 degrees outside all three of my kids loved going on a Jeep tour of the San Andreas fault. Families can hike out at Coachella Valley Preserve or take the Palm Springs Aerial Tram up to Mt. San Jacinto State Park to hike in cooler temperatures.

I recommend staying at Omni Rancho Las Palmas near Palm Springs. They have several swimming pools and a lazy river.

Use our Palm Springs Travel Guide to help you plan your family vacation.

Conclusion

This list could undoubtedly keep going with the abundance of diverse destinations found across the United States, but hopefully, these 9 are enough to get you started on planning a successful trip with your teens!

For more ideas on places in the United States on vacation see our 22 picks for a spring break trip, Best Lake Vacations in the United States or our post on 13 Insanely Affordable Vacations in the United States.

Read Next:

• 10 Best Places in Asia for Teens and Tweens
• Best Places in Mexico for Teens and Tweens
• Best Places in Europe for Teens and Tweens
• 23 Best All-Inclusive Resorts for Families
• 15 Cool Hotel Rooms for Kids

Get Travel Insurance

Unfortunately, there are a lot of things that can go wrong on any trip. Be prepared for the worst with travel insurance. We use Travelex or Safety Wing (often cheaper).

Book Flights

I use Skyscanner to find flights. I use it so much, I wrote an entire guide to finding cheap flights with Skyscanner! Another option for finding deals is FlightHub.

Book a Place to Stay

I recommend using Expedia.com or Hotels.com for most hotel bookings. I prefer to book directly with Marriott when I stay there because of their excellent military discount.

If you prefer staying in a vacation rental instead, I recommend VRBO. If you are looking for a hostel, I use HostelWorld.

Choose Activities and Tours

To find great activities in any area I use Viator. If we are visiting a city with lots of popular attractions I always check CityPass, PogoPass, and GoCard to see if they have discount cards available. Groupon also tends to have a lot of local travel deals.

When I want to book a full-on multi-day tour I use TourRadar. They’ve got fantastic weekly deals. If going somewhere in Mexico or the Caribbean, I use Apple Vacations.

Rent a Car or Get a Lyft

More often than not, Lyft is cheaper than Uber. Use my Lyft link for an $18 credit! For a car rental in any country, I recommend Hertz or Discover Cars.

Save Money on Gas

Upside a free app gets you cash back on gas! Use promo code RV2Q2 to get an extra 15¢/gal bonus on your first purchase.

Get a Visa

I use iVisa to get all of my Visas.

Travel Printables

If you found this information helpful consider buying me a cup of coffee aka helping me pay to put kids through college! Just scan the QR code or click the link. As always, thank you for your support!

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links, which means we may receive a commission if you click a link and purchase something that we have recommended but doesn’t cost you any extra. Please check out our disclosure policy for more details. Thank you for your support!

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. 

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Where We Stayed: Sheraton Waikiki

We stayed at the Sheraton Waikiki, and honestly, I might have to move in permanently. The location? Perfection. Right on the beach, walking distance to everything. We only had to grab an Uber to and from the airport — which means more time for the important stuff, like mai tais and beach lounging. The rooms are comfy. Each room has a coffee maker with Hawaiian coffee and a tea kettle, a Japanese toilet, and a balcony.

The hotel itself is everything you’d expect from a top-tier Hawaiian resort. We kicked things off with a free ukulele lesson (because when in Hawaii…), then hot tubbed like pros and even learned to make a flower bracelet — which, by the way, is easier than it looks.

One of the highlights? Renting a private cabana at the adults-only infinity pool. Floating in that pool with ocean views and drink service? That’s what vacation dreams are made of.

The cabanas are available to guests as well as people that just want to visit for the day. You can book a cabana here.

Sports Fishing

Turning 18 is a big deal, so we decided to go big with a deep-sea fishing trip with Aloha Charters LLC — and it was epic. Our guide, Jerry, was fantastic — the kind of guy who knows all the best spots and makes you feel like you’ve been friends forever. Jonah reeled in a mahi mahi (cue the proud mom moment), and I somehow managed to catch a marlin. Still not sure how that happened, but I’m taking the win.

If you’ve never been sport fishing in Hawaii, put it on your list. There’s nothing like the rush of hooking a big one while surrounded by that deep blue Pacific water. And the look on Jonah’s face when he pulled in his catch? Priceless.

Where We Ate (Because Food is Half the Fun)

We didn’t just eat well — we ate like royalty. Waikiki is a food lover’s paradise, and we did our best to taste it all:

🍽️ Dinners

• Duke’s – A classic spot, right on the beach. Fish tacos and mai tais while the sun sets? Yes, please. Plus, if it’s your birthday you get a free dessert.

• Rumfire – Trendy with a killer ocean view. Their cocktails alone are worth the visit. Happy hours starts at 4 PM with some good drink deals. I had steak and Jonah had a hamburger. We had the Japanese fried chicken for an appetizer and it was insanely good. 

• Tonkatsu Ginza Bairin – If you’re craving Japanese, this place nails it. The crispy pork cutlet was next-level.

• Wicked Maine Lobster – Because sometimes you just need a lobster roll (or two).

We also had dinner at Monkey Pod one night and I do not recommend it. That’s how we ended up at Wicked Maine Lobster in the food court next to our hotel. 

🍦 Desserts

• Baskin Robbins – Not your typical Baskin Robbins — they have shaved ice! Highly recommend the tropical flavors. We had one on-site at our hotel so we took it back to our cabana.
• Island Vintage Shaved Ice – Hands down the best shaved ice we had. The difference between theirs and many others is that it is served with soft serve vanilla ice cream, popping boba, and mochi. Get the lilikoi and thank me later.

🍤 Lunches

• Giovanni Shrimp – The garlic shrimp? Legendary, and now you do not have to venture all the way to the North Shore just to get some. They have a small location in Waikiki.
• High Tea at the Veranda at Moana Surfrider – This was such a treat! Fancy little sandwiches, scones, and tea overlooking the beach — very posh, very delicious. You can upgrade your tea to add a burger or a mimosa flight.

🍳 Breakfasts

• Sunrise Shack – The açai bowls were refreshing and perfect for starting a beach day. There is very little seating here. It’s basically grab and go.

• Kai Market – All the breakfast classics, plus tropical fruits galore and excellent views. Jonah had the steak and eggs which must have been good because he demolished them. I had the vegan eggs benedict which were delicious. We also tried the Portuguese sausage since we’d never had any before. 

Other Highlights

Between all the eating and fishing, we managed to soak up some good beach time. Waikiki Beach is exactly as beautiful as you’d expect — golden sand, turquoise water, and just enough waves to make things fun without scaring off the kids (or moms). We spent a lot of time walking along the beach and exploring the shops nearby. You could literally spend a whole day wandering around without ever getting bored.

Why Waikiki is the Perfect Spot

This trip had everything: a little adventure, a lot of relaxation, and some seriously good eats. The Sheraton Waikiki was the perfect home base, and the walkability made everything so easy. Jonah’s 18th birthday was one for the books — catching a mahi mahi, eating his weight in shrimp, and soaking up the Hawaiian sun.

If you’re planning a trip to Waikiki, take notes — sport fishing, infinity pools, and high tea might just be the winning combo you didn’t know you needed. Aloha! 🌺

Read Next:

Hiking Diamond Head in Oahu, Hawaii with Kids

Hale Koa a Military Resort on Waikiki Beach

The post 4 Days in Waikiki appeared first on Mommy Travels.

10 Free Things to do at Aulani the Disney Resort in Oahu, Hawaii

You’ve splurged on a hotel stay at Aulani Disney. So, now you need to make the most of the included activities because lets face it, you’ve paid for them. I’ve seen many refer to these as free activities, but considering how much you paid to stay here I’m just going to go with calling them included activities. We were able to do many of the activities, but we didn’t come close to doing them all. For example, they offered a wide range of fitness classes that were included in the price, but we didn’t go to any of them. Here were some of our favorite included activities.

1. Disney Family Fun Animation

Animation classes are available off and on throughout the week and they are always free. In this animation class your family will learn to draw one of the popular Disney characters step by step like Donald Duck or Goofy. You also have the chance to paint another character. You have to get to the family room early to sign up and do not be discouraged if you get wait-listed. We were on the waitlist and we got into the class.

The teen program offers late-night drawing classes that only teens can go to. My kids went one night and had a great time, even though we had already taken the family animation class. Noah enjoyed the teen class way more than the family class. Go figure!

2. Shake a Shaka Pool Party

Two or three times a week they have a full on pool party at the main pool. Much to my surprise the characters came out and participate almost the entire time. This is impressive because it is hot! They lead kids in dances and pool games. Characters would take turns leading and then stand off to the sides for pictures.

3. Ohana Ho’Okani Pila

That means family ukulele lessons. Sadly, we missed the family lessons, but my teens got to go to the one just for teens and they raved about it. They teach you 4 or 5 main notes and after that you can play all kinds of songs. After one lesson Noah and Eden can both play basic ukulele songs!

4. Fire Pit Story Telling

Every night of the week a guy everyone calls uncle tells stories while kids and parents sit around a fire pit. They do this four times a day. He doesn’t always tell the same stories so you can go more than once. If you have older kids like I do wait until one of the late night story times, because there’s no crowd.

5. Uncle’s Kahakai Canoe Racing

During this family activitym you and your family will learn about the different parts of a canoe and put one together and decorate it. Moana even shows up to help you finish it and take pictures with you. Then all the families Head out to the beach to race each other. You get to keep your family canoe as a keepsake. This was one of my favorite activities all week. They only offer it twice a week, so be sure and get to the family room early in the morning to sign up. This is another activity we got wait-listed on, but we got in.

How to Save Money at Aulani and turn it into an Affordable Family Vacation

6. Take Family Photos

This freebie made me so happy. I’m a single mom and I never have anyone around to take a family photo of us and I am not the best selfie taker. Around the resort are PhotoPass cast members. We took total advantage and ask them to take our photo down on the beach in front of the beach. They will take it with your camera or cell phone and with their nice camera. I ended up with quite a few great photos like this one. If you want to buy the photos they take it costs $99 and they put them on a CD for you. They put all the photos they take of you during your stay onto the CD.

7. Teen Program

The teen program at Aulani is fantastic and I can say this because both of my teenagers loved the program. They went to a handful of the events they offered the week we were there and enjoyed all of them. In fact, one of the days I was hustling to get back to the resort in time for their activity. When we got there they took off. I can assure you this has never happened before and I felt like that said all that was needed to say about the program. Teens rarely get excited to go do anything!

In the teen program, my teens learned how to play 4 or 5 notes on a ukulele, took an animation class, attended parties, participated in a physical challenge down on the beach, make leis, techniques for building sandcastles, and more.

8. Beach Fun

Boogie boards and sand toys are complimentary for guests. All you have to do is check them out for the day and turn them back in at the end of the day. My kids used the boogie boards as skim boards and they worked pretty well. Lucky for us it isn’t one board per family. You can check out as many as you need. They do have waiters that come down to the beach if you want to order food and drink. The chairs and umbrellas are first come.

10 Things You Need to Know Before Your Trip to Aulani

9. Board games and Disney Movies

There is a family room with an assortment of board games available for checkout. We checked out a couple of games and kept them all week. At night we sat around playing games together. You can sit and play the games in the family room as well.

Also in the family room is a movie library with every movie Disney has ever made! You can check these movies out and take them back to your room. The rooms are nice here, so you will definitely spend some time hanging out in them!

10. Kid’s Club

There is a kid’s club program for children ages 3 – 12 at Auntie’s Beach House. All kids must be potty trained in order to participate in the program. Many of their extra activities are included and a few cost an additional fee.

My son is 10.5 and didn’t love the kid’s program, granted he only went once to make slime. That’s him as a mad scientist during Stich’s Goo class! During Stitch’s Space goo workshop, kids make slime that they get to keep. Jonah had fun but thought they drug out the class a little too much.

Sadly, they only offer a few activities just for tweens. If your child is younger they will love this place. There is always something going on. They can even eat meals here for a fee while parents have a date!

Depending on how old your child is they can check themselves in at Auntie’s Beach House, but cannot check themselves in. The day Jonah went he checked himself in. I was so surprised when they called to let me know he arrived safely. How nice for my peace of mind. Granted, as I sat poolside, having a frozen cocktail I wasn’t really that worried. I could see him walk over from where I was sitting.

**Are you ready to book your Disney Aulani vacation? Check Rates Now!

Conclusion:

All in all, Aulani is the perfect getaway for families. With its variety of offerings and commitment to providing an amazing vacation experience, it’s no wonder why Aulani has become one of Disney’s most popular destinations. Whether you choose to lounge on the beach, explore local restaurants or explore the rich Hawaiian culture on a guided tour, you’re sure to find something that will make your vacation truly magical. So what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and book your stay today for the chance to enjoy these 10 free activities at Aulani! Who knows? Maybe a little Disney magic can help make this year’s vacation the best one yet.

Disney Aulani One Bedroom Villa Tour

Oahu Travel Guide

11 Things to do in Oahu with Kids

Hiking Diamond Head in Oahu, Hawaii with Kids

Cinnamon’s Restaurant the Best Breakfast in Oahu

The post 10 Free Things to do at Aulani Disney Resort in Oahu, Hawaii appeared first on Mommy Travels.

Oahu, Hawaii is quite simply paradise. Every time we visit I think why did we wait so long to come back. Many people will recommend the other islands, but they are all good and Oahu is awesome.

Here’s a packing list just for visiting Hawaii.

Things to do in Oahu

11 Things to do in Oahu with kids– I previously wrote up a list of things to do with kids in Oahu, so I am not including these here. You can check out the list for more ideas including the zoo, aquarium, and lots more.

Paddle board the Anahula River – Spend one day on North Shore paddle boarding up the Anahula River looking for sea turtles. Eden and I spotted at least 5 sea turtles. (You can rent paddle boards at nearby Surfnsea in Haleiwa for $20 an hour. They offer a military discount.)

Kayak Lanikai Beach – Rent kayaks at Lanikai Beach and paddle out to Mok Nui Island. Once you are on the island you can climb around it and depending on the water condition cliff jump. If it is windy this can quickly become an intense kayak trip out and back.

Fun Fact: Lanikai Beach is the 10th most Instagrammed beach in the world. Even on a cloudy day you can see why, just look at that turquoise water pictured below.

Parasailing – Take your kids parasailing with X-treme sail. I have tried another company, but I liked this one better. My youngest was 10 when we went and he was super scared, but they convinced him to give it a go and then dunked us during it.

Snorkel at Hanauma Bay – This is an amazing state park with an underwater park. You can see all kinds of fish here. There are a few extremely shallow sections. They are closed on Tuesdays.

Go Hiking

There are so many great hikes you can take on the island. So, if you are into hiking you must do at least one good one.

Diamond Head – Diamond Head is a must during any Oahu vacation! It’s a bit intense going up all the stairs, but there is a different way up with less stairs. 

Maunawili Falls – This is a beautiful hike, but be sure to read my post before you go. You do not want to end up lost, like we did. 

Pearl Harbor – Visit the site of the attack on Pearl Harbor. You can purchase a ticket at the site or take a tour of Pearl Harbor.

Polynesian Cultural Center – Learn all about the Polynesian people here. They also do a good luau here.

Experience a Luau – There are lots of places that offer a luau experience, including the Polynesian Cultural Center, Hale Koa resort, Aulani Disney Resort, Hilton Waikiki, and more. The cheapest one of military personnel is probably the one at the Hale Koa. We’ve only experienced the one at Aulani and it was phenomenal.

Go Shopping

Oahu has loads of shopping. You can find almost any store you are looking for somewhere on the island. Instead of mentioning the obvious places I am just going to list some of my favorite ones that are unique to Oahu.

• Honalua Surf Co. – Near the Hawaii Fire shop is a bathing suit shop that has more bathing suits than anyone could ever possibly need. We got Eden the cutest swimsuit here.
• Surfnsea – in Haleiwa on North Shore is a little shop jammed packed with Billabong, Roxy, Hurley, O’Neill, and more. I scored some amazing deals on clearance here.

Best Places for Shaved Ice in Oahu

Matsumoto – Up on the North Shore is one of the most popular places to get shaved ice on the island. Expect a line, because it’s really well known.

Located at: 66-111 KAMEHAMEHA HWY SUITE #605, HALEIWA, HI 96712.

Shimazu Shaved Ice – This is the perfect place to grab a shaved ice after hiking Diamond Head. The shaved ice here is gigantic. Eden is holding a small!

Located at: 3111 Castle St, Honolulu, HI 96815.

Uncle Clay’s House of Pure Aloha – Located in the Aina Haina Shopping Center, this is the perfect place to pick up a shaved ice in Waikiki. It’s served with fruit and ice cream.

Located at: 820 W Hind Dr #116, Honolulu, HI 96821

Where to Eat in Oahu

There are so many fantastic places to eat in Oahu. Having some Hawaiian food is obviously a must while you are here!

The Food Company – They have amazing Hawaiian food over in Kailua at The Food Company.

AMA Ama – AMA Ama is a restaurant over inside Aulani that is fantastic for lunch. The lobster roll and the steak sandwich were both excellent.

Cheese Burger in Paradise – They have multiple locations around Waikiki.

Cinnamon’s  – Hands down the best breakfast on the island. They have two locations, one in Kailua and one in Waikiki.

Giovanni’s Shrimp Truck – Their shrimp is worth standing in line for an hour for. Giovanni’s Shrimp truck easily lived up to all the hype. We stood in line forever and it was totally worth it. I had the shrimp scampi covered in lemon butter and garlic. It was so messy and so delicious.

The North Shore location is at 66-472 Kamehameha Hwy, Haleiwa, HI 96712.

Greek Marina – This is a fairly cheap place to eat and they have really good gyros. I suggest stopping in and getting some gyros to go and taking them with you to Hanauma Bay.

Kalapawai Cafe & Deli – They have two locations, one in Kailua and one in Kapolei. They use locally sourced and natural ingredients whenever possible.

Dukes

Dukes is super popular for a reason. Great food, good service, reasonable prices, and live music.

Tonkatsu Ginza Bairin

If you love Japanese, you will love Tonkatsu Ginza Bairin so much. The crispy pork cutlet was next-level.

Family Friendly Hotels in Oahu

Aulani by Disney

This is by far our favorite place to stay, because of all the activities that are included during your stay. If you can afford it definitely spring for a stay here. There are some ways to make staying at Aulani more affordable.

Marriott Waikiki 

Marriott Waikiki is not cheap, but the rooms are nice and the rooftop pool is fantastic. Try to get a rate that includes breakfast. One of the nights they had live music at the pool bar, which was super enjoyable. This hotel is on the far side of Waikiki, so closer to Diamond Head.

Sheraton Waikiki

Jonah and I stayed at this hotel the last time we were in Oahu and we had the best time. The location is phenomenal. It’s within walking distance of so many things that you don’t need a car if you are staying here. We loved the adults only infinity pool and the multiple hot tubs. I think all the rooms have an incredible view. We could see Diamond Head from our room. It had a few onsite restaurants which was also so convienant.

Military Lodging on Oahu

With so many bases in Hawaii there are tons of places for military members, veterans, and their family members to stay at. So far we have stayed at four of them.

Bellows AFB Cabins – These are so nice if you can score one.

Hale Koa  – Depending on your rank this might be a little overpriced.

Joint Base Pearl Harbor Hickam

Hickam TLF – We stayed in one of these before they remodeled the housing, so it’s hard to say exactly what it’s like now, but at the time it was 2 or 3 bedrooms for $55 a night.

How to Save Money in Hawaii

Oahu is not cheap. I know total shocker! But like any destination that are various ways to try and save some money. Here are a few.

Bring Your Own Snorkel

There are a handful of easy ways to save a few bucks in Hawaii and it mostly comes down to packing certain items like snorkel gear. If you have to rent snorkel gear each time you want to snorkel you can quickly end up spending quite a bit of money. Instead of spending $10 or $20 here and there buy yourself a set and take it with you anytime you are headed somewhere you might use it.

Eat a Cheap Breakfast in your Hotel Room

Another quick and easy way to save money is by bringing something to eat for breakfast. Anything you are going to buy in Hawaii is going to cost you double. Throwing in one or two boxes of pop tarts into your suitcase can end up saving you tons of money. Think about it. Every time a family of four needs to have breakfast in Hawaii it’s going to be at least $50. That box of pop tarts only costs $3 bucks! That’s a massive savings.

Watch for Deals

Groupon’s Daily Deals are available all around the island. I got a good deal on parasailing and a catamaran cruise through this.

Watch various websites for the best hotel deal. Use which ever site you need to. I use Expedia.com the most.

Have you been to Oahu? What was your favorite thing? I would love to hear any tips or advice you may have to share in the comments below.

Other Hawaiian Islands

• 5 Family Things to Do in Maui, Hawaii
• Kauai, Hawaii

The post Oahu Travel Guide appeared first on Mommy Travels.

Noah, Eden, and Jonah have been traveling with me their entire lives. So far the three of them have been to at least 22 countries, 4 continents, and almost every state in the United States. Needless to say, when I ask them what the best family vacations were, they had more than a few opinions! 

They quickly fired off an assortment of places we have been. It was interesting to hear what they picked, some of them I knew, but other ones were a complete surprise. After some serious conversation with them, we’ve narrowed it down to 17!

Top 17 Family Vacations You will Never Forget!

1. Singapore

Singapore is in all of our top ten picks. My oldest, Noah considers Singapore to be a utopia because of its cleanliness and orderliness. Oddly enough, we were only in Singapore for two days, making it one of the shortest stays we have done anywhere. It only took one day for us to fall in love with this city. We recommend walking around Marina Bay where the architecture is insane and definitely visit some parts of the Marina Bay Gardens. I can assure you that your kids have never seen anything else like this! The kid’s favorite hotel here is the Fairmont Singapore. For more ideas on what to do and where to find the best milkshake see my article: Singapore Travel Guide.

2. Cancun

Cancun has so much going on, and don’t worry, it’s safe. We spent a week there and basically had a non-stop adventure! The entire area is set up well to accommodate any kind of family and literally any type of budget. Families will appreciate luxurious, all-inclusive resorts with kid’s clubs and teen clubs. While the kids are off doing their own thing parents can head to a spa or the bar. There isn’t a bad beach anywhere in the area, so plan to spend at least two full days beach bumming.  While you are there, be sure to see Mayan Ruins, swim in a cenote, eat lots of Mexican food, and go ATVing. 

For a list fun family things to do in Cancun check out this post: 12 Adventurous Things to do in Cancun. I recommend staying at The Grand in Cancun or at another one of the  11 Best All-inclusive Resorts in Cancun for Families.

If at some point you head over to Cozumel (you totally should), check out my post: 13 Things to do in Cozumel. I recommend staying at Allegro Cozumel.

3. Thailand

Thailand is absolutely incredible and I wasn’t surprised it landed in my kids top three places. You can basically go anywhere in Thailand and have an interesting experience. I recommend visiting at least these three places when you go: Phuket, Bangkok, and Chiang Mai. Although they each have some similarities they are completely different experiences.

Phuket

Phuket is one of Thailand’s islands and it’s extremely kid friendly. My kids thought taking a Thai cooking class was cool and they loved going to the beaches and interacting with elephants and tigers. To find the elephants on the beach check out my post: Swimming with Elephants in Thailand. And for more help planning your trip to Phuket see my article: 5 Day Phuket Itinerary with Kids.

Bangkok

Bangkok is massive so there are loads and activities. The kids loved biking through the city despite the heavy traffic and they were thrilled when we stumbled across monstrous milkshakes. To read more about taking Bangkok to kids, check out my article: Two Days in Bangkok with Kids.

Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai is an easy city to get around and it has tons to see and do. The city has an incredible night market where you and your kids could shop for hours. Here you will find interesting things to purchase like leather journals, bracelets, and tuk-tuks made out of soda cans. There is an elephant sanctuary where families can care for elephants and of course the food is outstanding! I recommend staying at the Shangri-la and taking a food and city tour by bike. Learn more about visiting Chiang Mai with kids in my article: 4 Things to do in Chiang Mai with kids.

4. New York City

New York City is currently Noah’s #1 and in Eden’s top 3 and in my top 15. The kids love the many dessert experiences here like Serendipity and  Black Tap. Both places have outrageous over-the-top desserts. They all enjoy hanging out in Central Park and Bryant Park, both parks have lots of free activities. At Bryant Park, kids can play kubb, while parents grab a drink at the little outdoor bar there. In Central Park, there are multiple playgrounds.

Visiting the 9/11 memorial is a must and if the kids are 10 or older tour the museum. Kids enjoy touring the Statue of Liberty, but not necessarily Ellis Island. If you do, go to Ellis Island to look for your family’s name on the wall. If you want to do a bus tour I recommend The Ride, especially if your kids are teens or tweens. I think going to a Broadway show is a must, but this is expensive and not worth it if your kids hate musicals or might possibly sleep through it. Good plays for kids are Wicked, Lion King, and Phantom of the Opera.

Remember the further out you can plan a trip to New York the cheaper the trip will be. Here are 15 Ways to save money in NYC.

We’ve been to NYC more times than we can remember. Check out our New York City Travel Guide to help you plan your own epic NYC getaway!

5. Oahu, Hawaii

Hawaii is another place that all three kids agree on and Oahu is their top island followed by Kauai. On Oahu, their favorite thing to do is sit at the pool or sit on the beach.

The kids recommend hanging out at the beach on North Shore to check out the waves and do some shopping. While you are up there have shrimp from Giovani’s Shrimp truck and get shaved ice at Matsumoto Shave Ice. If you feel like getting active rent a paddleboard at Sea N Surf and paddle up the Anahulu River and look for sea turtles. The last time we went we saw five huge sea turtles.

Also, fun in Oahu is parasailing in Waikiki and hiking to the top of Diamond Head. When you get done hiking Diamond Head, stop by Shimazu Shave Ice for massive shaved ice.

For more help planning your family’s Oahu vacation read our Oahu Travel Guide. 

I highly recommend staying at Disney’s Aulani if possible. 

6. Orlando

Orlando would probably make any kid’s list. With it being home to Disney World, Sea World, Discovery Cove, and Universal Studios a family could spend a month and do something different every single day. Universal Orlando is a must once each kid is tall enough to ride all the roller coasters and the new water park, Volcano Bay is fantastic. Besides the theme parks, there are all sorts of other fun things to do like swamp tours through alligator-infested waters, knight tournaments at Medieval Times, and within a short drive lots of beaches.

7. London

London also made it high on the list of the kid’s favorite places. We visited during Thanksgiving a few years ago and everything we did was awesome. There is so much to see and do that you can easily spend a week or two here and never run out of activities. Some of their favorite things were seeing the play Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, eating at Borough Market, and doing the Tower of London tour. Both boy’s least favorite thing to do is the bus tours. I personally appreciated how many free things there were to do in London. For more London ideas and tips, see my article: London with Kids.

8. Negril, Jamaica

Negril, Jamaica is Jonah’s #1 pick, and if I was his age, I think this would possibly be my #1 too. We recommend staying at Beaches Negril. This is an all-inclusive resort geared specifically for families. Highlights of staying here include:

• Sesame Street parade and BBQ party where families can dance with the characters, DJs lead dances, flame throwers perform, and more.
• Ice Cream Machine – The kids loved the ice cream machine which they visited a minimum of three times a day. (Don’t judge me, it’s vacation!)
• Snuba – Even kids can snuba at Beaches Negril and they do not have to have any experience to do this. The instructors are fabulous and it’s an activity the kids will never forget.
• Multiple pools, a lazy river, a water playground, and hot tubs.
• Miniature golf
• Video game lounge
• Kid’s club

9. Vail, Colorado

Vail, Colorado is another destination that is enjoyable year-round. During the summer the kids enjoy biking around town, riding horses around the mountain, and visiting the Epic Discovery adventure park set up on the mountain. In the winter the skiing is excellent. My kids have skied since they were little and appreciate the extensive skiing found in Vail. If you do not ski, this is a great place to learn.  For more info, check out our Vail Travel Guide. 

10. Silvies Valley Ranch

Visiting a dude ranch is a completely unique vacation. You can have an experience as a family that just can’t be had unless you are on a working ranch. Here you can shoot guns, interact with baby goats, hit the spa, experience gourmet dining, participate in a cattle round-up, and much more. They even have four golf courses on the ranch. Golf lovers will flip out over the reversible golf course that’s right I said reversible! With a little bit of everything, your family is sure to have an incredible time. To get a feel of the overall ranch read about our Silvies Valley Ranch Experience.

11. Greece

Greece is an epic experience because let’s face it, there’s no other place on earth like it. It basically doesn’t matter what part of the country you visit, you will never have a bad meal, you will experience history and culture like never before. I can state this as a fact because we’ve traveled all over Greece and it’s all been wonderful. 

Athens

Chances are high that one way or another a Greek vacation is going to take you through Athens at some point. Plan to spend at least a day here so you can visit the Acropolis before heading out to the islands. At night during the sunset dine at Savvas, their rooftop overlooks the Acropolis. Hotels can be difficult to get for a family, you may want to stay in an Airbnb.

Mykonos

A one of a kind city and gorgeous beaches await you in Mykonos. Teens and parents alike will love Mykonos City full of white-washed buildings. Also, if you can get a sitter or if your kids are old enough to stay at the hotel alone plan to go out. Mykonos has one of the best nightlife experiences in the world.

• For more advice, check out my post: Mykonos with Kids

Santorini 

Here you will have the opportunity to see things you’ve never see before like Red Beach. Perissa, the black beach is also worth visiting if you’ve never seen one before. There are two towns built into the sides of the island, both of which are worth spending time in, Fira and Oia. In Oia, you will see one of the greatest sunsets in the world. 

• For more things to do and where to stay check out my post: Santorini on a Budget. 

Thessaloniki

Thessaloniki is from biblical times and many of their historical sights have withstood the test of time. (Okay, I know what you are thinking. Yes, all of Greece is from biblical times.) They basically have ruins or a gorgeous church around every corner. The food scene is excellent here. For a list of things to see and do check out my post: Thessaloniki on a Budget. 

Kassandra

Can’t afford to splurge on the islands? Head here instead. Here you will be greeted with that famous aqua water and glorious beaches. Go shopping in Pefkochori and grab lunch at Agora Beach Bar. I highly recommend staying at Alexander the Great Beach Resort in this area. 

12. Australia

If you can get yourself to Australia, do it! Australia is just as fabulous as everyone says it is. There are so many varied experiences to be had throughout the country.  Try to plan a minimum of 9 days in the country. More than two weeks would be better. 

Whitsunday Islands

If swimming the Great Barrier Reef is on your bucket list, then this should be your first stop. Whitehaven Beach should also be on your bucket list. It’s one of the most beautiful beaches in the world. 

Melbourne

If you’ve got a family of foodies, Melbourne is sure to delight. They have the most over-the-top, whimsical food creations you’ve likely ever seen. In between beautiful meals stop by the Brighton Beach Bathing Boxes and the graffiti alleys. The alleys in Melbourne are really cool. 

• Where to eat in Melbourne

Great Ocean Road 

One of the top road trips in the world is driving the Great Ocean Road. Along the way, you can stop at dozens of scenic overlooks and take in the magnificent rock formations like Loch Ard Gorge and the 12 Apostles. You can enjoy one of the many nice beaches where kids can swim and play in the sand. Plus, there are animal encounters. Pull over to look for koalas in the trees and feed the birds at Kafe Koala. Be sure to stop at the Great Ocean Road Wildlife Park, where you can hand-feed kangaroos. 

13. Texas

We are originally from Texas so it was no surprise that Texas made the list. The kids have been all over Texas and they recommend eating lots of Tex-Mex food and visiting the following cities: Dallas/Fort Worth, Austin, San Antonio, and Corpus Christi.

San Antonio

San Antonio has a ton of stuff for families to do. Here you will find a massive zoo, Fiesta Texas theme park, the famous San Antonio River Walk, and just outside of town is Schlitterbahn the #1 water park in the world. When visiting plan at least one full day at Schlitterbahn, half a day at the river walk, and float the Comal river. Our favorite restaurants in San Antonio currently are Ocho, Toro Kitchen + Bar, and Rita’s on the River. 

In San Antonio, I recommend staying at Hotel Emma.

Plan your entire trip with our San Antonio Travel Guide.

Dallas/Fort Worth

The Dallas, Fort Worth area is packed with stuff to do for families. Over in Fort Worth will love the rodeo at the stockyards. Be sure to go when they have bull riding. Also found in the stockyards is a fun maze and Texas-themed shopping. Plus, they do a daily cattle drive. Our favorite restaurants in Dallas include Meso Maya for dinner and El Jordan Cafe for breakfast. Just north of Dallas is Addison, TX which is jammed packed with great restaurants. 

14. Honduras

Honduras is easily one of our top vacations, according to me. Unfortunately, the kids remember very little of the trip. I recommend going to Roatan and Copan. These two places are no where near each other and two extremely different experiences. What they do have in common is affordability!

Roatan

Roatan is one of the Bay Islands and along the 2^nd best barrier reef in the world. The reef is near the shoreline making it extremely easy for kids to snorkel. Jonah was 4 when we visited and he was able to snorkel. Also fun here is zip lining and paddleboarding.

Copan

Copan is a Honduran city that borders Guatemala. Here you can go horseback riding up a mountain, go zip lining on one of the longest zip lines in the world, and visit an incredible hot spring.

15. Panama City Beach

Another family favorite in Florida is Panama City Beach. The beach has soft, powdery, white sand. It isn’t as big as many of the beach towns, but that doesn’t mean there isn’t a lot to do. Go mini-golfing and go-carting, spend the day at the beach, or shop around at Pier Park. Spend one day bopping around Scenic 30A, where you will find tiny beach towns like Seaside or Rosemary. Renting some bicycles is a perfect way to explore this area. Another interesting spot worth venturing out to is Sandestin’s Baytowne Wharf. Here, families can indulge in boutique shopping, zip-lining, ropes courses, an arcade, and unique eateries.

Use our Panama City Beach travel guide to plan your entire vacation.

16. Costa Rica

Costa Rica is super cool country with a wide variety of things to do. The food was consistently good, the activities were exciting and the people were so nice. Whether rafting down a volcano’s raging rivers in a tube near La Fortuna to chilling at a beautiful beach on the Pacific or the Atlantic everyone is going to enjoy the country. Costa Rica Travel Guide

17. La Paz

La Paz features miles of white sand beaches and endless opportunities for outdoor adventure including paddle boarding, kite surfing, kayaking, SCUBA diving, whale watching, swimming with whale sharks, sportfishing, hiking, mountain biking, and much more. If you want your kids off their devices and outside doing stuff you will love it here. Plus, the food is unbelievably good. 

Plan your own trip with our La Paz Travel Guide for Families. Plus, Best Places to Stay in La Paz, Mexico and Best Beaches in La Paz.

Conclusion:

So, there you have it, the best of the best family travel locations. There are hundreds of other places that could have made the list but didn’t. These were ones that just barely missed making our list: Las Vegas, Bavarian Alps in Germany, Paris, and house boating on Lake Shuswap in British Columbia. Like Honduras, my kids do not even remember house boating up in Canada, but if they did (well not Jonah, he had yet to be born), I am sure it would have made it onto the list.

Where are your favorite places to take your kids on vacation? We are always taking recommendations and planning our next family vacations. Yes, plural. Why take just one vacation? I think you should take as many as possible, big trips, weekend getaways, family reunions, you name it. These are all opportunities to have fun, spend time together and make the most memories possible. And don’t delay. Noah’s a high school senior and he’s about to move on with his life. (Oregon State University #Bragging) And y’all, I straight up ran out of time with him. You will run out of time, so make today count.

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16 Insanely Awesome Girl’s Trips

11 Best Places to Snorkel with Kids Around the World

The post 17 Incredible Family Vacations appeared first on Mommy Travels.

With so many great places to visit on both Maui and the Big Island, it’s hard to narrow it down.

This post will help guide you through a memory-packed 7-day itinerary at National Parks, beaches, and unique wildlife sightings.

Exploring Maui and the Big Island’s National Parks offers a fantastic way to see Hawaii’s unique landscapes while absorbing the culture and natural marvels of the islands.

One of the best things about Hawaii is its variety! No matter how many times you visit, there’s always something new and thrilling to experience.

So, if you’re thinking about your next vacation and want a break from busy Waikiki, let’s take an adventure across Maui and the Big Island’s National Parks!

A Note Before We Start…

Visiting Hawaii with your family can be amazing and filled with memories. However, some of the activities in this guide may be a bit tough for the little ones. So, you’ll want to think about that before booking anything.

Even though this guide is all about Maui and the Big Island’s National Park, there’ll be some downtime as well.

Day 1: Arrival and Kona Coast Exploration (Big Island)

You’ll begin your adventure by landing in Kailua-Kona, a major town on the west side of the Big Island. Rich with historical charm—think Hawaiian kings and safe havens due to its prime location—this town has transitioned into modern times while retaining its unique charm.

Located at the base of Hualalai Volcano, Kailua-Kona offers stunning views and is filled with important historical sites.

Be sure to visit Hulihe’e Palace on Ali’i Drive. Once a royal residence, now serves as a museum showcasing Victorian era relics and traditional wooden furnishings that illustrate the island’s past. Directly across the street stands Moku’aikaua, Hawaii’s oldest Christian church founded in 1820—a key site for history enthusiasts.

Take a walk down Ali’i Drive where shops, eateries, and cafes maintain the historic atmosphere of the town. Continuing south, you’ll reach Kealakekua Bay—the location where James Cook first landed in Hawaii in 1778—and where he was later killed. A monument commemorates this important historical location.

Also, be sure to visit Pu’uhonua o Honaunau National Historic Park—a well-preserved “Place of Refuge” that attracts many visitors with its crystal-clear waters and excellent diving spots.

And if history isn’t your interest? Travel up to Holualoa to sample some famous local Kona coffee before it’s time for the beach! One of our favorites is Mountain Thunder Coffee.

Day 2: Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

Today you’ll visit your first National Park—Hawaii Volcanoes National Park! Hosting one of the world’s most active volcanoes, Kilauea, and Mauna Loa, it features a landscape that varies from rugged lava fields to lush rainforests full of life.

Begin at Kilauea Visitor Center (open daily) to pick up maps and get updates on trails or ranger-led hike schedules.

Ready for volcanic action? The park includes steam vents and Thurston Lava Tube—an underground tunnel formed by flowing lava—providing a thrilling start to your national parks adventure.

Feeling adventurous? Finish today with a hike on the Kilauea Iki trail for incredible volcanic views!

One important thing to keep in mind when visiting Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, is that you’re not always guaranteed to see lava.

Day 3: North Kohala and Waimea

Day three brings a dramatic change of scenery to North Kohala’s rolling hills—a stark contrast with jet-black rocks and bursts of crimson landscape! It’s ideal for relaxation or enjoying luxurious resort amenities.

From stunning resorts and minimal rainfall—this makes it perfect for beach lounging—all set against green fields, North Kohala is pure bliss!

Next, visit Waimea or “paniolo” country—Hawaiian cowboy territory! Enjoy the rolling hills and expansive ranches ideal for horseback riding activities.

Here you can enjoy excellent dining options or catch a live performance at Kahilu Theatre that marks an end to your visit to the Big Island. Next up, Maui!

Day 4: Island Hopping To Maui

It’s time to switch islands, or ‘island hop’ over to Maui. Take an early flight from the Big Island to maximize your Maui exploration time! Like before, today is yours; soak in Maui’s relaxed atmosphere… a perfect laid-back day before tomorrow’s excitement!

Beaches await! Engage in fun water activities or enjoy leisurely beach time with drinks—you decide how today unfolds!

Take some time to explore some of Maui’s best beaches! Some of our favorites are:

Kaanapali Beach – Often topping lists of the best beaches in America, Kaanapoli Beach is known for its golden sands, clear waters, and excellent facilities. It’s perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and enjoying sunsets.

Napili Bay – A smaller, more secluded beach known for its calm, clear waters, making it ideal for swimming and snorkeling. The crescent-shaped bay offers stunning views and a peaceful atmosphere.

Baldwin Beach Park – Near Paia, this beach is favored by locals for its long sandy stretch perfect for beach walks and picnics. The protected “Baby Beach” area at the west end provides safe swimming conditions.

There are a ton of great beaches to enjoy on Maui. So, no matter which side of the island you’re staying on you’re sure to find a beautiful beach. Now, it’s time to get some rest.

Day 5: Haleakalā National Park

Above the clouds, Haleakalā National Park stands prominently, visible across the island, inviting you to experience breathtaking vistas well above sea level.

This park offers picturesque trails and is particularly noted for breathtaking sunrises and sunsets, locally known as the “House of Sun”—definitely worth experiencing. Make sure to book your reservations in advance.

At the park you can take horseback rides with the chance to see rare species like Silverswords flowers or native geese, Nene.

For the adventurous, early mornings offer rewards with pre-dawn options revealing Maui’s beauty. No wonder why many people say, “Maui Nō Ka ʻOi.” (The best).

Day 6: Road To Hana and Hana Town

Traveling the Road to Hana involves navigating more than 600 sharp curves and steep cliffs, each revealing spectacular views of lush forests and deep pools. Despite the distractions, drivers must stay alert due to the challenging road conditions.

Because of this, it may be recommended to take a certified tour rather than driving the road yourself.

Finally, once in Hana, you’re greeted by the tranquil St. Sophia Church, setting a peaceful tone. For relaxation, Hamoa Beach offers an idyllic setting, widely recognized for its stunning coastal scenery.

Further exploration at Wai’anapanapa State Park is recommended for its striking black sand beaches. Just make sure to make reservations. The park also offers an opportunity for beginners to explore the intriguing Lava Tubes, showcasing more of the area’s volcanic landscape.

Day 7: Iao Valley State Monument and Departure Preparation

The last day, takes us inside the awe-inspiring Iao Valley State Monument in central Maui near Wailuku.

From easy walks leading to scenic points such as the famous ‘Iao Needle providing panoramic views of the entire valley, visitors young and old find something enchanting about these paths surrounded by lush greenery.

Reflect on your last day on Maui and think about the entire journey amidst nature’s wonders.

Head back to the resort, relax on the beach, and soak in the Hawaii’s vibes until the very end. Every great experience must come to a close, leaving you with beautiful, lasting memories of your adventure.

Wrap-Up

And there you have it—a thrilling 7-day journey through the National Parks of Maui and the Big Island, filled with adventure and unforgettable sights. From the volcanic landscapes of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park to the serene shores of Hamoa Beach, each day brought us closer to the heart of Hawaii’s natural beauty and rich history.

As you plan your trip, remember to consider the physical demands of some activities, especially if traveling with younger adventurers.

Also, don’t forget to make reservations for popular spots like Haleakalā for sunrise views and Wai’anapanapa State Park to explore its famous black sand beach.

Finally, as you reflect on this itinerary, think about how each location might fit into your travel plans. Whether you seek tranquility, adventure, or a bit of both, Hawaii’s National Parks offer something for every traveler. Safe travels, and enjoy the breathtaking landscapes of Hawaii!

Get Travel Insurance

Unfortunately, there are a lot of things that can go wrong on any trip. Be prepared for the worst with travel insurance. We use Travelex or Safety Wing (often cheaper).

Book Flights

I use Skyscanner to find flights. I use it so much, I wrote an entire guide to finding cheap flights with Skyscanner! Another option for finding deals is FlightHub.

Book a Place to Stay

I recommend using Expedia.com or Hotels.com for most hotel bookings. I prefer to book directly with Marriott when I stay there because of their excellent military discount.

If you prefer staying in a vacation rental instead, I recommend VRBO. If you are looking for a hostel, I use HostelWorld.

Choose Activities and Tours

To find great activities in any area I use Viator. If we are visiting a city with lots of popular attractions I always check CityPass, PogoPass, and GoCard to see if they have discount cards available. Groupon also tends to have a lot of local travel deals.

When I want to book a full-on multi-day tour I use TourRadar. They’ve got fantastic weekly deals. If going somewhere in Mexico or the Caribbean, I use Apple Vacations.

Rent a Car or Get a Lyft

More often than not, Lyft is cheaper than Uber. Use my Lyft link for an $18 credit! For a car rental in any country, I recommend Hertz or Discover Cars.

Save Money on Gas

Upside a free app gets you cash back on gas! Use promo code RV2Q2 to get an extra 15¢/gal bonus on your first purchase.

Get a Visa

I use iVisa to get all of my Visas.

Travel Printables

If you found this information helpful consider buying me a cup of coffee aka helping me pay to put kids through college! Just scan the QR code or click the link. As always, thank you for your support!

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links, which means we may receive a commission if you click a link and purchase something that we have recommended but doesn’t cost you any extra. Please check out our disclosure policy for more details. Thank you for your support!

The post 7-Day Itinerary to Exploring Maui and Big Island’s National Parks appeared first on Mommy Travels.

Hale Koa a Military Resort Review

I’m standing on Waikiki Beach to take this picture of the hotel. All the hotel rooms are located in that tower.

Waikiki Beach – Check out the older people standing behind my daughter.  I guess they were taking a picture of Christmas cards or maybe they just love Santa hats.

The top balcony on the corner in this picture was ours. As you can see the balconies are a nice size.

The adults-only pool. We never got to enjoy this pool, but it looked very nice and was quiet.

View from our room.

Part of one of the big pools.

The resort is right on the beach. Here’s the public beach out in front of the hotel. They do not have any private beach but as far as I know all the beaches in Waikiki are public. So, this isn’t unusual. It’s never been crowded when I am here.

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The post Hale Koa a Military Resort on Waikiki Beach – Honolulu, Hawaii appeared first on Mommy Travels.

It’s the main town most visitors will pass through as it’s home to the International airport on this beautiful tropical island. Kona is also known for having amazing weather with more than 300 days of sunshine a year. It has a cute town with plenty of boutique shops and restaurants to eat at. Let’s jump into the best things to do in Kona!

Best Things to do in Kona, Hawaii

1. Kaloko-Honokōhau National Historical Park

• Location: Kailua-Kona
• Insider Tip: If you are driving, park at the small boat harbor.

This national park is a lesson in history & archeology, all set against the beautiful backdrop of blue skies and a bluer ocean. Not only do you get insight into early settlements that thrive along the rocky Kona coast (no small feat), you can hike the region and see sacred temples, petroglyphs, and Hawaiian fishponds. Keep your eyes peeled for spectacular local wildlife, like sea turtles or monk seals. 

Follow the sand toward the water to see it turn into lava rock! The impressive array of things to see – from a peek into ancient life to the wildlife that still thrives here – makes this a great family-friendly activity on the Big Island.

2. Hulihe’e Palace

• Location: 75-5718 Alii Dr
• Cost: $10 for adult entry

Hawaii isn’t really a place you’d think of as having a monarchy, but back in the mid-1800s, there was indeed a royal family ruling the tropical island region. And every king needs a palace, which is exactly what this landmark has to offer: the totally preserved summer vacation home of King Kalakaua and Queen Kapiolani. 

Built-in the Victorian style, the palace displays artifacts and original furniture from the days of the Hawaiian monarchy. There is also annual live music shows, one Sunday a month, free of charge, by local artists playing everything from traditional Hawaiian-style tunes to folk rock.

3. Mauna Kea Summit

• Location: Kona
• Insider Tip: Access to the Visitors Center and the trail is difficult due to the local political climate and an excess of protesting, so call ahead and find out what the situation is before going all the way there.

Thanks to one of the planet’s most beautiful and diverse landscapes, Hawaii has no problems in the ‘views’ department, which is probably why every photo you see on your friends’ Instagram feed looks like top-tier photography. At an altitude of nearly 14,000 feet, the Mauna Kea Summit is a beautiful viewpoint overlooking the valleys, volcanoes, and sunrise if you are an early riser. 

Fun fact: Mauna Kea is the tallest mountain in the world when measured from its actual base (much of which is underwater).

Mauna Loa is visible from the top (sometimes alight with magma cracks!), so even though you can expect a grueling hike to the summit, the views are worth it. Due to the altitude, the atmosphere gets thin up here! Those who are ill, in poor general health, or pregnant and/or breastfeeding should avoid this particular hike.

4. Old Kona Airport State Recreation Center

• Location: 75-5560 Kuakini Hwy
• Insider Tip: Watch out for mongoose and feral cats in the area!

This public park is unique because it developed on the site of an old World War II airline landing strip. While it used to run nonstop and direct flights to other major cities throughout Hawaii, today, it is a beautiful beach park surrounding bays of calm, warm waters – and a popular place on the list of things to do in Kona.

This region covers a lot of ground, with Pawai Bay offering unique and fascinating terrain like lava tunnels and subterranean caverns periodically hiss out hot steam. Pawai Bay is also the site of some of the best snorkeling (best suited to advanced divers only).

Go a little further down the coast to see the Keiki Ponds, which are large tidal pools perfect for swimming or just floating and watching the waves crash on the rocks safely away. 

5. Mountain Thunder Coffee Plantation

https://vimeo.com/323912493

• Location: 73-1942 Ha’o St
• Insider Tip: Don’t miss the chocolate-covered coffee beans!

If you can’t start your day without your morning cup of joe, then maybe taking a tour of a coffee plantation is something you might enjoy. The Mountain Thunder Coffee Plantation offers tours of its farm, free of charge to boot!

Every day of the week, every hour on the hour, and with no booking needed ahead of time, you can show up at the plantation and partake in a tour with a coffee tasting included! Plus, you will walk away with much more information about coffee you never knew.

The 30-minute tour will show you the day-to-day of the plantation’s operations, how the coffee is made, and the entire process from the bean in the ground to the hot brew in your morning cup. Plus, who can say no to free Kona coffee samples?

6. Kamakahonu Historic Landmark

• Location: Kaahumanu Pl, Kailua-Kona
• Insider Tip: The reconstruction of the king’s personal heiau (temple or place of worship) is still considered sacred and is not open to the public.

This unassuming structure may not look like much, but it has an imposing history: it was the last residence of King Kamehameha before his death. This king united all the islands of Hawaii into a single kingdom. 

The structure left standing today was once part of an impressive compound of buildings that included the king’s residence, his personal place of worship, thatched houses for the community subjects, and the king’s retreat house.

A mortuary was constructed after his death to house his remains. From the expansive community that once was, there is little left standing, though many of the buildings have been reconstructed to show what life may have been like at the time. 

7. Kona Farmers Markets

• Location: Kailua Bay & Kamakaeha Avenue, respectively
• Insider Tip: Prices are more reasonable than grocery stores for food items, so stock up on Macadamia nuts and pineapples!

If you stay at a condo in Kona, you may want some fresh produce. There are many farmers’ markets in Kona, but the two that pack the biggest punch are the Kona Farmers Market in central Kona (near Kailua Bay), and the Pure Kona Green Market in South Kona. At the Kona Farmers Market, you have the island’s best spread of fresh fruit & vegetables, beautiful floral arrangements, and handmade crafts & souvenirs. 

Meanwhile, the Pure Kona Green Market is dedicated to sustainability, ethical production, and practices that benefit the earth & community on a local scale. From handmade goods to freshly-made food, this is something you can feel good about supporting while still getting treated to a wonderful experience.

8. Kailua Pier

• Location: Kaahumanu Place
• Insider Tip: Take an evening dinner cruise from here if you want to make your evening plans a little more exciting.

This spot is the city’s capital of outdoor adventuring. If you’re an adrenaline junkie or water sports enthusiast, meet your next outing. Kailua Pier is the jumping-off point for all the local water activities, like snorkeling, scuba diving, party cruises, and fishing or whale watching tours. 

To the left of the pier is also the starting point for the Iron Man triathlon; when not used by race-goers, it is a beautiful spot for a swim, with a very vibrant sea life perfect for snorkeling or just observation. Whether you’re here to depart on an ocean adventure for the day or just plan to relax and enjoy your time on the shore, this is a landmark you’ll want to note. 

9. Kona Cloud Forest

• Location: 73-1865 Hao St #3
• Insider Tip: Don’t miss the painted trees!

The name of this attraction alone probably already has your interest peaked. The Kona Cloud Forest is pretty much as cool as it sounds, but it’s more than just a neat place to see—it’s an environmental conservation project.

The 70 square kilometer region is privately owned, with every inch bursting with native flora and even some imported plants and flowers to enhance the beauty. You can even spot several species of native birds!

The grounds are open for public botanical tours, where you can learn about reforestation, conservation, and a little about reducing your impact on the earth. 

10. Aiopio Fishtrap

W Nowicki, CC BY 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons 

• Location: Kailua-Kona
• Insider Tip: This is a great spot for spotting turtles, which will munch on the algae that line the shore. Don’t touch or get near them; they are a protected species.

The Aiopio Fishtrap is, quite simply, a fascinating insight into native Hawaiians’ relationship to the ocean and how it allowed early populations to thrive and flourish.

This nearly two-acre pond is constructed using remnants of lava rock to emulate a wall-like structure, where an opening into the open sea would allow fish to enter at high tide and be trapped once the sea level dropped.

Then, it was easy to net the fish and bring them ashore. The area also has the remnants of a longhouse, which could have been used to store boats and canoes. Nearby, a beautiful white sand beach is tucked away and generally very quiet and private—an excellent spot for an afternoon picnic and swim.

11. Living Stones Church/Hale Halawai O Holualoa

W Nowicki, CC BY 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons 

• Location: 76-6224 Alii Dr
• Insider Tip: There is still a Sunday mass service every week. 

Looking at this ancient structure, you can tell that this is a building steeped in tradition and history. While today the building is known as the Living Stones Church, this is a recent moniker; it used to be called Hale Halawaio Holualoa. Christian missionaries arrived in the region in 1820, and Hale Halawai O Holualoa was built in the 1850s.

During excavations from this building (made from coral lime and lava rock), game boards were found, proving that this was not just a place of worship for a new religion but also a place of community and togetherness.

With its sprawling lawn and position right near the water, this is a unique sight to see and a marker of the immense changes in culture that arrived with the colonizers.

12. Pawai Bay

• Location: Northern end of the Old Kona Airport
• Insider Tip: Since the water is so clear and the ecosystem here so healthy, visibility can extend hundreds of feet. If you’re really lucky, you might get up close and personal with a dolphin or two!

This is your one-stop shop for all things snorkeling. Pawai Bay is widely known as one of the best places on the big island for diving, thanks to being a younger island with less sand and silt and a rocky shore that leads to some of the planet’s clearest water—in other words, ideal conditions for underwater exploration. 

Taking a catamaran snorkeling tour will give you some inside info on the best dive spots. When you want to take a break, your boat has a trampoline-like netting that’s perfect for lounging in the sun before jumping back in the water.

Some wildlife you’ll be lucky enough to see include sea turtles, eagle rays, endless types of tropical fish, and vibrant, brightly-colored coral. Check out the divots and holes in the lava rock, which often hide even more underwater life. 

13. Mokuaikaua Church

• Location: 75-5713 Alii Dr
• Insider Tip: Admission to the church is free, whether for a tour or Sunday mass.

Want to see Hawaii’s oldest Christian church? Good, because it’s pretty cool and one of the best things to do in Kona! American Christian missionaries first arrived in Hawaii in the 1820s, and it didn’t take long for them to begin spreading their message (with the king’s permission) and building places of worship; the Mokuaikaua Church was completed in 1837.

The original structure was made of wood obtained from the upper area rainforests, but a series of fires resulted in the final structure, the one that still stands, being constructed from stone.

The church is open to the public for tours. There are artifacts and vestiges from this time in history on display, including a scale model of the Thaddeus, the ship that brought the missionaries to the Hawaiian islands.

14. Island Breeze Luau – He ‘Ohana Kakou

• Location: 75-5660 Palani Rd, in Courtyard by Marriott

Is it even a trip to Hawaii if you don’t see at least one luau while you’re here? The Island Breeze Luau is one of the better-known ones on the island. It’s operated through a Marriott Hotel, so you can be sure that the quality and production value are pretty high.

This is a social and very inclusive affair; you can meet the performers and even partake in craft-making. You’ll then get to see the uncovering of the traditional Hawaiian underground oven and indulge in the vast buffet of traditional Polynesian food that will be cooked on it—plus an open bar!

The show itself is a history lesson; the crew of dancers will arrive by canoe, heralded by conch shell calls, and perform the luau dance under the stars—an experience you are not likely to forget in a hurry. 

15. Ali’i Drive

Shopping in Kona

• Location: Ali’i Drive, Kona
• Insider Tip: If you didn’t manage to get a plantation tour, don’t miss out on another chance to get some fresh Kona coffee.

While much of this list of things to do on Hawaii’s Big Island is focused on nature exploration and immersing yourself in island culture, every now and then, you might just want some creature comforts and a more laid-back, slower-paced day.

Ali’i Drive is the Kona shopping district – the hot spot for restaurants, nightlife, clothes shopping, and more. This is the ‘it’ place to be and where you’ll find the hub of life in Kona.

There are also lots of family-friendly places to hang out on this street, so there is no need to avoid it if you’re traveling with kids. The location is also right on the shoreline, so you’re never too far away from a dip in the water.

16. St Benedict Catholic Church

• Location: 84-5140 Painted Church Rd, Captain Cook, HI
• Insider Tip: Make sure to bring a camera to photograph all the awesome murals!

Still wondering what to do in Kona. St Benedict Catholic Church, also called “The Painted Church,” is a church listed on the National Register of Historic Places near Kona built between 1899-1902, where artist Fr. Velghe depicted various biblical scenes on the ceilings and walls. It’s a beautiful place to go and admire the artwork.

This church is still in service and holds five masses per week but is open to the public seven days a week.

How to Get Around the Big Island?

You will 100% need a rental car to get around Big Island. This is the United States, after all. Car rental companies are located at Kona International Airport. We went with Avis and were upgraded to a brand-new Jeep for free while in Hawaii. The perfect car for driving around Hawaii! 

Where to Stay in Kona

Read Next:

Beach Packing List for Hawaii

Best Resorts in Hawaii for Families

The post 16 Best Things To Do In Kona, Big Island appeared first on Mommy Travels.

But Kauai’s East Coast, particularly the Kapa’a area, is seriously underrated. There are so many must-do things in Kapa’a to add to your Kauai itinerary. 

This area of Kauai offers lush jungle, towering palm trees, and some of the best restaurants on the island. Stop viewing Kapa’a as “that spot on Kauai with bad traffic” and get exploring! 

A Quick Introduction to Kapa’a, Kauai

Kapa’a sits in the middle of Kauai’s Royal Coconut Coast. It’s said that the area’s signature palm trees are courtesy of an unlucky investor planted thousands of coconut trees along the coast, hoping to strike it rich, but not factoring in the decades it would take for the trees to reach maturity. 

Located just 6 miles north of Lihue Airport, Kapa’a makes a convenient base for a Kauai vacation. Nearly 30% of the island’s population lives in the small area north of the Wailua River and east of Makaleha mountain range. You’ll find a high concentration of towns in this small geographical area of lush valleys and plentiful fresh water including Wailua, Wailua Homesteads, Waipouli, and Kapa’a. For the purposes of this post, we’re exploring things to do in this entire area. 

While all of Hawaii caters to tourists, Kapa’a feels very different from Kauai’s other more tourist-centric destinations like Poipu. In Kapa’a, tourists need to merge into everyday life with the locals. Many downtown Kapa’a stores are designed with residents, not visitors’ souvenir shopping, in mind. If you need a supermarket, pharmacy, or hardware store while you’re on Kauai, you’ve come to the right spot!

With so many people calling the Kapa’a area home, it shouldn’t be a surprise that the East Coast  is the epicenter of Kauai’s notoriously bad traffic. There’s stop and go traffic, especially in the southbound lane, almost all day long. You can avoid this (to a certain extent) by using the bypass road around Kapa’a. Just remember, there’s only one main road around the island and everyone’s trying to get somewhere. Practice patience and know you’ll get where you need to go in good time. 

Why Visit Kapa’a, Kauai 

In addition to those striking palm trees, the Kapa’a area offers vast sandy beaches, access to the thick Kauai jungle you known from Indiana Jones and Jurassic Park films, and numerous municipal paths and hikes, all with a dramatic mountain backdrop. You’ll also find the mouth of Wailua River here, which is one of the most sacred places in all of Hawaii. 

A base in Kapa’a puts you in the perfect position to explore all corners of Kauai. You can be in Princeville on the North Shore in about 30 minutes. Meanwhile, the furthest reaches of the island – Waimea Canyon State Park – is only an hour’s drive away. But with so many things to do right around Kapa’a, you might find you never need to venture beyond this lush area during your entire Kauai stay. 

13 Best Things To Do in and around Kapa’a Kauai 

Hike the Kuilau Ridge Trail

This popular jungle hike is located about a 20-minute drive inland from Kapa’a. An easy wide trail takes you uphill through lush foliage on 3.5 mile round-trip out and back hike. You can make it into an 8-mile loop hike if you prefer, but the trail narrows considerably when you reach the small waterfall at the 1.7 mile mark. Just be sure to wear shoes you don’t mind getting covered in Kauai’s infamous red clay! 

Visit Keahua Arboretum

After your time hiking the Kuilau Ridge Trail, the neighboring Keahua Arboretum is a great place for picnic among native Hawaiian plants and trees. A stream runs through the Arboretum and trails crisscross this rainforest oasis.  

Kayak the Wailua River to Secret Falls

One activity you’ll see on almost every Kauai itinerary whether you’re staying in Kapa’a or elsewhere is to kayak up the Wailua River and hike to Secret Falls. At this point, this waterfall is anything but secret! To reach Secret Falls, you’ll kayak two miles up the river from its mouth, then hike approximately a mile to the waterfall. There are several kayak rental shops in Wailua and Kapa’a who will either drop off your kayaks at the river or help you strap it to the top of your car. 

Smith Family Garden Luau 

If you’re looking for a luau experience in the Kapa’a area, the Smith Family Garden Luau is considered one of the best luaus on Kauai. Located in a beautiful, lush garden park, the experience includes a feast loaded with traditional Hawaiian foods followed by a show. Just be sure to make reservations in advance for this popular luau if this is going to be an integral part of your Kauai visit.  

Get hand pies at Passion Bakery Café 

This small bakery located in Wailua is a great place to pick up a breakfast sandwich or plate lunch. If you’re looking for some baked goods to take on a hike, they are especially known for their hand pies. (Try the haupia!) On Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays, they make fresh malasada donuts. 

Shop at the Coconut Marketplace /Thursday farmer’s market

This open-air market right off the Kuhio Highway in Wailua is a fun place to take care of all of your Hawaiian shopping needs. The market includes gift shops, restaurants, and the Island Country Market where you pick up souvenirs, groceries, alcohol, and other supplies. 

On Tuesdays and Thursday mornings from 9 a.m. – 1 p.m., there’s a farmer’s market in the parking lot where you can stock up on produce like tropical fruit, avocados, and coconuts. Be sure to check out their calendar of events as they often offer hula and lei making classes as well as free hula shows. 

Get breakfast at Java Kai

Be prepared for a line at this popular breakfast joint in downtown Kapa’a. Known for their smoothies, breakfast sandwiches, and, of course, coffee, this is the spot to grab breakfast and that required coconut latte in Kapa’a. Inside the café can get pretty cramped, but they also provide ample outdoor seating where you can enjoy your meal.  

Hike on the Ke Ala Hele Makalae path

Whether you’re looking to bike, scooter, or walk, the Ke Ala Hele Makalae multi-use path is a gentle, wide beach path that’s a great way to get out and enjoy the Coconut Coast. The 8-mile path uses an old train grade and is divided into two sections. The first section runs from Lydgate Beach Park to Waipouli. The northern part starts in Waipouli Park and continues to Ahini Point. 

A popular destination along the Ke Ala Hele Makalae Path is the old Pineapple Dump site. Here you’ll find a large concrete structure left behind from an old pineapple cannery. From Kealia Beach, it’s just over a mile walk to the old Pineapple Dump. There’s a nice Pacific Ocean lookout here, along with an informational plaque about the area’s agricultural history.  

Hike Sleeping Giant

The Sleeping Giant (or Nounou Mountain) watches over Kapa’a. (Or at least the giant would if he hadn’t fallen asleep on the job after eating too much at a feast, according to local legend.) You can hike up this mountain via a rewarding, but difficult 3.2 round-trip, out and back hike. Like all Kauai hiking trails, the trail can be quite muddy and slippery. At the top, you’ll enjoy panoramic views of the island, including a view of Mount Waialeale which is said the be the wettest place on earth with more than 400 inches of annual rainfall!

Ho’opi’i Falls

This out and back hike along Kapa’a Stream takes you past a series of waterfalls on a 2.2 mile out and back hike. You’ll recognize the second set of falls from Jurassic Park. If you want to, you can take a refreshing swim in the cool water at the base of the waterfalls. Since the trailhead is accessed in a residential neighborhood, local residents ask that hikers wait until at least 8 a.m. to start the hike, take care to park appropriately, and keep their voices down when accessing the trail.

Catch the sunrise over Waipouli beach and visit Kukui Heiau 

As you might expect, Kapa’a’s location on the island’s east coast means it’s not a great spot for sunsets. However, what it lacks in sunsets, it makes up for in sunrises. A beautiful spot to watch the sun rise out of the Pacific Ocean is Waipouli Beach. While there, you can stroll along the Ke Ala Hele Makalae Path and visit Kukui Heiau, a small temple used by early Hawaiians that’s now listed on the National Registry of Historic Places. Since this is a sacred spot, keep your visit brief and respect all the instructions on posted signs.  

Where To Stay in Kapa’a 

17 Palms 

This small vacation rental in Wailua has two small cottages: the one-bedroom Hale Iki cottage and a larger two-bedroom house. These fully equipped rentals offer a large supply of beach gear and are just a one-minute walk from Waipouli Beach. Check current rates. 

Waipouli Beach Resort

Another great lodging option in the Kapa’a area is Waipouli Beach Resort, which combines the best aspects of vacation rentals with resort amenities. The resort features suites equipped with full kitchens and multiple bedrooms and bathrooms. There’s a restaurant, pool, and spa on site. Check current rates. 

Pono Kai Resort 

Pono Kai Resort is another popular suite style resort in Kapa’a. The resort’s location right in downtown Kapa’a makes it easy to walk to shops and restaurants. You can also access Kapa’a Beach and hop on the Ke Ala Hele Makalae path. Check current rates. 

Best Kapa’a Restaurants

Lava Lava Beach Club

While no restaurant can’t actually operate on a Kauai beach, you can get a sandy, beachy dining experience at Lava Lava Beach Club where the outdoor tables are set up on a sandy expanse with an ocean view. This fun, casual restaurant has a great selection of both Hawaiian American fare and is a great spot to enjoy a mai tai.  

Hukilau Lanai 

One of the best restaurants on Kauai is tucked in the Kauai Coast Resort. They’re especially known for their fresh fish specials. Be sure to make your reservations well in advance. 

Sam’s Ocean View 

This favorite Kapa’a restaurant lives up to its name with a fantastic, unobstructed view of the Pacific Ocean. The menu features small plates and inspired entrées and cocktails. If you’re struggling with jetlag, they have a great happy hour if you need an early dinner. 

Conclusion: What to do in Kapa’a, Kauai 

Kapa’a and the East Coast makes a fantastic base for your Kauai adventures. Instead of blowing through this area on your way to the North Shore, take time to really explore Kapa’a. You’ll find ample amenities, excellent restaurants, and rewarding hikes. It’s a wonderful place to merge into Hawaiian culture and live your best island life.  

Bio: Ada Igoe is a Minnesota-based travel blogger who blogs at Beyond the Yellow Brick Road Follow along on her adventures on Instagram and Facebook.

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North side of Kauai Hawaii

Get Travel Insurance

Unfortunately, there are a lot of things that can go wrong on any trip. Be prepared for the worst with travel insurance. We use Travelex or Safety Wing (often cheaper).

Book Flights

I use Skyscanner to find flights. I use it so much, I wrote an entire guide to finding cheap flights with Skyscanner! Another option for finding deals is FlightHub.

Book a Place to Stay

I recommend using Expedia.com or Hotels.com for most hotel bookings. I prefer to book directly with Marriott when I stay there because of their excellent military discount.

If you prefer staying in a vacation rental instead, I recommend VRBO. If you are looking for a hostel, I use HostelWorld.

Choose Activities and Tours

To find great activities in any area I use Viator. If we are visiting a city with lots of popular attractions I always check CityPass, PogoPass, and GoCard to see if they have discount cards available. Groupon also tends to have a lot of local travel deals.

When I want to book a full-on multi-day tour I use TourRadar. They’ve got fantastic weekly deals. If going somewhere in Mexico or the Caribbean, I use Apple Vacations.

Rent a Car or Get a Lyft

More often than not, Lyft is cheaper than Uber. Use my Lyft link for an $18 credit! For a car rental in any country, I recommend Hertz or Discover Cars.

Save Money on Gas

Upside a free app gets you cash back on gas! Use promo code RV2Q2 to get an extra 15¢/gal bonus on your first purchase.

Get a Visa

I use iVisa to get all of my Visas.

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The post 11 Fun Things to do in Kapa’a, Kauai, Hawaii appeared first on Mommy Travels.