Hawaii
Secret Beach in Kauai: A Hidden Gem Worth the Journey
I’ve been to Kauai several times now, and just when I think I’ve seen all the best beaches, this island surprises me again. Secret Beach in Kauai — also known as Kauapea Beach — is one of those places that makes you feel like you’ve stumbled onto one of the most beautiful stretches of coastline in all of Hawaii. When I first heard of Secret Beach, I immediately thought the person was talking about Hideaway Beach. It wasn’t until that person mentioned seeing views of the Kilauea Lighthouse that I realized she was talking about another beach entirely. Apparently confusing the two beaches is very common, but they are in…
Welcome to 1 Hotel Hanalei Bay — Paradise on Kauaʻi’s North Shore
When we visited Kauai in late 2022, the 1 Hotel Hanalei Bay Resort was in the final stages of being transformed. Prior to that, it had been the St. Regis Princeville Resort. We stayed at the Hanalei Bay Resort just next door, so I loved walking by the 1 Hotel Hanalei Bay and watching the transformation take place. I could tell it was going to be an absolutely beautiful resort, and I couldn’t wait for the day that I could give the 1 Hotel Hanalei Bay Resort a review myself. Tucked into the lush, tropical landscape of Kauaʻi’s North Shore, 1 Hotel Hanalei Bay is a resort that seems to…
Hideaway Beach in Princeville, Kauai
I’m almost embarrassed to admit this… we’ve stayed on the north shore of Kauai multiple times now, and somehow totally missed Hideaway Beach every single visit. It wasn’t until a few nights into this last trip—while chatting with a handful of people in the hot tub—when we heard it mentioned over and over. Everyone kept saying, “Oh, you haven’t been yet? You have to go.” So of course, we had to go. And wow—why did no one grab us by the shoulders and make us go sooner? It was literally just steps away from our resort, and yet it felt like a completely different island. A Beach That Looks Straight…
Explore Kihei, Maui: Activities You Can’t Miss
The Best Things to Do in Kihei, Maui Before visiting Maui, I kept hearing that Kihei had this easygoing vibe—like the kind of place where you can spend the whole day barefoot, eat incredible food from roadside stands, and watch sea turtles snooze on the beach. And honestly? That’s exactly what it feels like. For those looking for a more lively, tourist feel, you won’t find that here. But Kihei is a great city to consider staying in, or at least to visit when in Maui. Kihei isn’t flashy or overly polished, but that’s what makes it so perfect. The beaches are beautiful and super accessible, the sunsets somehow look…
Kayaking to Secret Falls in Kauai: What to Know
Last time we went to Kauai, we had so much fun chasing waterfalls. We hiked to Ho’opi’i Falls (which we loved so much, we did it again on this most recent trip) and Makaleha Falls. This time, I wanted to see something new, so we did the kayak and hike to the Secret Falls in Kauai. If you’re looking for one of the most memorable things to do in Kauai—something that blends adventure, jaw-dropping scenery, and just the right amount of chaos that comes with traveling with kids—then a trip to Secret Falls (Uluwehi Falls) needs to be on your Kauai itinerary. Why Secret Falls in Kauai Is Worth the…
Hoopii Falls Trail in Kauai: A Hike for the Whole Family
Two waterfalls, cliffs to jump from, a rope swing… what more could you ask for? Oh, how about also being a location from a famous scene in Jurassic Park? It’s no wonder the Hoopii Falls trail in Kauai was one of my family’s favorite things we did on our family vacation in Kauai. And it definitely makes my list of the 6 most kid-friendly hikes in Kauai. The Hoopii Falls trail in Kauai is a pretty flat 1.8-mile out-and-back hike that takes you to two different waterfalls. Knowing this would be a pretty short hike, we set out to do it between breakfast and lunch, only bringing some snacks. But…
Kauai Backcountry Adventures: Tubing in Kauai
A few months ago, we took a Kauai family vacation where we enjoyed various hiking adventures, beautiful waterfalls and simply lounging around on the beach. But one experience we did that stood out was the Kauai Backcountry Adventures where we got to go mountain tubing in Kauai. The Kauai tubing experience consists of tubing through open canals of an old sugar plantation. While on this Kauai mountain tubing adventure, you pass through seven dark tunnels and down one very small cute. The current is calm enough for kids 5 and up to get to partake in the fun. What to Expect While Mountain Tubing on Kauai Backcountry Adventures The Kauai Backcountry…
The Best Vacation Destinations in January
January isn’t typically the month that comes to mind when you think about taking vacation. Most people’s minds go straight to the warmer summer months, spring break or the holidays for some extra family time. But January is actually a great time to travel. Some of the best vacation destinations tend to be less busy in January, after the hustle and bustle of the holiday season. Plus, you could probably use the extra rest after the past two busy months. Whether you’re craving a winter wonderland or a warm, sunny escape, there’s something extra special about kicking off the year with a trip that helps you reset, recharge, and start…
Top Family Resorts in Kauai for Memorable Vacations
Kauai is a great family destination, and it’s one of my family’s favorite islands to visit. When planning a Kauai family vacation, you’ll need to know what hotels are the best family resorts in Kauai. That’s why I’ve compiled this list of Kauai family resorts that have awesome pools, a great location, and activities the kids will love. When we visited Kauai, we stayed on the north side of the island, in Princeville and Hanalei Bay, however we ventured all over. No matter where you stay, you’ll be missing out if you only stay put in that one spot. Kauai has so much to offer. Some of the best hikes…
The Best Things to Do in Poipu, Kauai
My friend and I have been having an ongoing debate for years when it comes to Kauai. I personally love the North side of the island because of the lush green backdrops that are absolutely beautiful. But she loves Poipu because it’s on the sunny side of the island and because there are so many things to do in Poipu, which makes it easy. I have to admit, sometimes ease and convenience trumps views. Especially when traveling with kids, which we often are. No matter where you end up staying, Poipu needs to be on at least one day of your Kauai itinerary. This little slice of paradise is famous…
