Aloha Reader! "Which island should we visit?" This is THE question I get asked most often, and I totally get why it's so confusing. Each Hawaiian island has its own personality, and what works for one family might be a disaster for another. The good news? Once you know what to look for, the choice becomes much clearer. 🌺 Let me help you find YOUR perfect island match: If this is your first Hawaii trip: Oahu might be your sweet spot. It has the most kid-friendly infrastructure, shortest travel times between attractions, and the most "backup plan" options when things go sideways (and with kids, they always do). 👉 Read my complete Oahu family guide here​ If you want adventure + relaxation: Maui offers the perfect blend. The Road to Hana is a kid-approved adventure, but you'll also find plenty of calm beaches for downtime. 👉 Check out the best areas to stay on Maui (this post will save you from booking in the wrong spot!) If you prefer fewer crowds: Kauai is your paradise. It's Hawaii's most relaxed island, perfect for families who want to slow down and connect. 👉 Essential Kauai tips every parent needs to know​ Still not sure? Here's my shortcut: Think about your family's travel style. Do you like packed itineraries or slow mornings? City conveniences or nature escapes? Answer those questions, and your perfect island will reveal itself. Happy island hunting! Aloha, Marcie P.S. Want the complete breakdown for each island? I've got detailed planning guides for Maui, Kauai, and Oahu that dive deep into what makes each one special for families. |
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! October is the perfect time to start getting your kids excited about your upcoming Hawaii adventure – even if you haven't booked yet! While you're busy comparing hotel prices and flight times, your little ones are probably asking, "Are we there yet?" before you've even left the driveway. Here's how to turn that pre-trip energy into excitement: 🧩 Hawaii Activity Printables That Actually Work Smart parents know the secret: engaged kids = easier travel planning. These printables...
Aloha Reader! Hey there! Everyone asks me: "When should I book my Hawaii flights?" And honestly? The answer surprises most parents. The common wisdom says "book 6-8 weeks out" or "Tuesday at 3pm is the magic time" (spoiler: it's not). Here's what I've learned after 40+ Hawaii trips: The best time to book is when YOU find a good price. I know, I know. Not the hack you were hoping for. But here's the thing - flight prices are wild right now. They can swing $200+ per ticket in a single day. What...
Aloha Reader! Here's something that might surprise you: anyone can call themselves a "Hawaii expert" online. Seriously. One sunset photo on Instagram and suddenly someone's giving advice to families planning $5,000+ dream vacations. There's no regulation, no oversight, and no requirement to actually know what you're talking about. That's exactly why official credentials matter – and why I became a Certified Hawaii Destination Expert through the Hawaii Tourism Authority, even though I'm not a...