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Aloha! I'm Marcie with Hawaii Travel with Kids

Hawaii: 5 True Gems vs. 5 Overhyped Duds!

Published 7 days ago • 1 min read

Aloha Reader

Let's talk about something nobody else will tell you straight:

Not every "must-do" Hawaii activity is worth your money.

After testing basically everything with my family, here's my honest take:

WORTH EVERY PENNY:

  1. Snorkel boat tours - Yes, even the pricey ones. The captains know where the sea turtles hang out.
  2. Luaus at smaller venues - Better food, less crowds, more authentic than the resort mega-shows.
  3. Sunrise at Haleakala - Cold? Yes. Early? Very. Worth it? Absolutely.
  4. Surf lessons with small class sizes - Your kids will actually stand up, not just flounder in the lineup.
  5. Helicopter tours - Splurge-worthy for a special trip. The views will blow your mind.

SKIP OR DIY:

  1. Hotel luaus - See above. You're paying for the resort name, not the experience.
  2. Overpriced snorkel gear rentals - Buy your own for $30 and use it for years.
  3. Tourist submarine tours - Cool concept, but you'll see more snorkeling for 1/4 the price.
  4. Guided beach walks - Beautiful beaches are free. Walk them yourself!
  5. Airport lei greetings - Sweet idea, but $40 for something that wilts in 2 days? Buy fresh ones at the farmers market instead.

Want the complete breakdown?

My Hawaii guidebooks have the full scoop on every activity - what's worth it, what to skip, and how to save money without sacrificing the experience. All from a parent's perspective, because I've done it all with my own kids.

​Check out the guidebooks here →​

Your wallet will thank you.

Aloha,

Marcie

Aloha! I'm Marcie with Hawaii Travel with Kids

I've visited Hawaii more than 40 times and I know ALL the tips and tricks for planning the ultimate Hawaii family vacation! I offer free Hawaii planning email courses. I also send weekly emails on Fridays where I share my top things to do in Hawaii with kids, the best family resorts in Hawaii, and my ultimate packing lists! Mahalo!

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