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Aloha Reader! If you're planning your first Hawaii trip (or your first trip WITH kids), I have a confession: Oahu is probably your best bet. I know, I know. Everyone says Maui is more beautiful, Kauai is less crowded, the Big Island is more "authentic." And sure, they're not wrong. But Oahu – specifically Waikiki – is THE most forgiving place for first-timers and families. Here's why: Things to do in Waikiki with kids → Waikiki gives you everything within walking distance. Kid melts down? You're 5 minutes from your hotel. Want variety? You've got beaches, restaurants, shops, and activities all right there. Easy transportation? Check. Options for every age? Check. It's not the "undiscovered Hawaii" experience. But for your first trip – especially with kids – that's actually a feature, not a bug. The key is knowing which parts of Waikiki to embrace and which tourist traps to skip. That guide breaks it all down with activities I've actually done with my own kids (and their honest reactions). And if you're wondering how long to stay: How many days in Oahu do you need? → This takes the guesswork out of planning your trip length. Most people either stay too short (and regret it) or too long (and get bored). I'll help you find the sweet spot. Start here, nail your first trip, and then you can explore the other islands with confidence. Marcie P.S. Want a personalized Oahu itinerary built around your kids' ages and interests? That's exactly what I do in consultations – no more generic advice that doesn't quite fit your family. |
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!
Aloha Reader! Now that the holiday dust has settled and you're back into your routine, I'm betting one of two things is happening: Option 1: You just got back from an amazing Hawaii trip over Winter Break and you're already dreaming about your next visit (because once you experience Hawaii magic with the family, once is never enough!) Option 2: You watched everyone else's Hawaii vacation photos on social media over the holidays and thought, "We NEED to do this for Spring Break or this...
Aloha Reader! Can I tell you about the email I got last week? A mom wrote: "I've had 47 browser tabs open for THREE WEEKS trying to figure out where to stay in Maui. I'm losing my mind." Friend, I felt that in my soul. The "where to stay" question paralyzes more people than anything else. Because once you pick your accommodation, it feels locked in. What if you choose wrong? What if the other area was better? Let me help you close some tabs. If you're going to Maui: The Kaanapali vs Wailea...
Aloha Reader! Every single time someone reaches out about planning their first Hawaii trip, they ask me the same thing: "Which island should we choose?" And honestly? I get it. The pressure to pick the "right" island feels HUGE when you're investing time and money into a family vacation. Here's what I tell everyone: there's no universally "best" island. But there IS a best island for YOUR family, based on what you actually want to do and how old your kids are. Oahu or Kauai - which is best...