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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 with kids? → This comparison breaks down the real differences (not just the pretty pictures) so you can make a confident choice. I cover everything from which island has better kid-friendly beaches to where you'll find more activities for different ages. Once you pick your island, the next question is always: "How long should we stay?" Spoiler alert: most families stay too SHORT and spend half their trip exhausted and jet-lagged. Here's my honest take: These aren't "see everything" itineraries. They're realistic guides based on what actually works with kids who need downtime. Planning a 2025 or 2026 trip? Start with these questions. They'll save you from second-guessing yourself later. And if you want personalized help working through these decisions? My consultations are designed exactly for this – we'll figure out the perfect island, length, and approach for your specific family. Happy planning! Marcie |
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! 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! Tonight, while you're waiting for Santa (or waiting for your kids to finally fall asleep so YOU can be Santa), can I suggest something fun? These Christmas movies set in Hawaii → I put together this list because sometimes you need that tropical escape, even if it's just on your TV. Some are classic Christmas films, some are more family comedies that happen at Christmas, but all of them will make you smile and maybe start planning your next Hawaii trip. And speaking of bringing...
Aloha Reader! Whether you're in Hawaii right now, heading there tomorrow, or cozied up at home dreaming of tropical Christmases – I hope this week is filled with magic. If you ARE in the islands and wondering what to do over the next few days, here's my tried-and-true guide: How to spend Christmas in Hawaii with kids → It covers everything from Christmas Day activities to managing expectations (spoiler: your kids WILL want to be at the beach Christmas morning, and that's totally okay). One...