Guide to the Conejo Valley Touch-a-Truck 2026 (Thousand Oaks)

Firetruck attended last year’s touch-a-truck event in Thousand Oaks, that children could climb in and explore the inside of a firetruck

We’re Rolling Out to Conejo Valley Touch-a-Truck! 🚛✨

Mark your calendars for Saturday, June 20, 2026! The Trucks that Saved team is packing up the gear, loading up the inventory, and heading to the highly anticipated Conejo Valley Recreation and Park District (CRPD) Touch-a-Truck event!

If you have a little one who is absolutely obsessed with big rigs, sirens, and things that go vroom, this is the ultimate family day out. The event runs from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM.

Touch-a-truck is coming soon to Thousand Oaks and the Conejo Valley

Come Say Hi at Our Booth! 👋

We had so much fun attending last year, we are honored to participate this year!

We will have a dedicated booth set up all day, and we would absolutely love for our friends, readers, and fellow truck lovers to stop by and hang out.

We’re bringing along the heartbeat of our family business—our children's book series! You'll be able to get your hands on physical copies of:

• The Trucks That Saved the Park Storybook: Meet the hard-working truck team and dive into a story all about teamwork, community, and helping others.

• The Trucks That Saved the ParkColoring Book: Perfect for keeping those little hands creative and engaged on the ride home!

Grab a Free Activity Sheet! 🧩

To make the day even more interactive for your mini "world-schoolers," we are giving away a Free Touch-a-Truck Scavenger Hunt Sheet right at our booth (The Trucks that Saved Series)!

Before you head out to climb inside the massive fire engines, construction trucks, and dump trucks, swing by our table to grab a sheet. It’s a great way to turn the event into an educational adventure, challenging your kids to spot different real-life community heroes as you explore the field.

Event Details at a Glance:

• What: CRPD Touch-a-Truck 2026

• When: Saturday, June 20, 2026 | 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM

• Where:Thousand Oaks Community Center, located at 2525 N. Moorpark Road, Thousand Oaks, CA 91360

• Admission: Free!

What types of trucks and vehicles can we expect to see?

Last year there was an incredible lineup of real-life community helpers at the event and this year is on par!

• The Road Crew: Concrete Mixer, Skip Loader, Excavator, and Tractor.

• The Emergency & Security Heroes: Firetruck, Police Motorcycle, and Security Truck.

• The High-Reach & Utility Helpers: Cherry Picker, Trash Truck, Forestry Truck, Hydro Truck, Tow Truck, Bobcat, and a School Bus.

⚠️ Important Note for Families: While these specific trucks may be scheduled to appear, the lineup is subject to change without notice. Real-life helper trucks occasionally get called away for community emergencies, maintenance, or unexpected scheduling shifts. We appreciate your understanding as we work to keep our community safe and our events moving smoothly!

You might even be able to operate a real construction truck

🔍 Frequently Asked Questions: CRPD Touch-a-Truck 2026

Before you pack up the diaper bag and head out to the Thousand Oaks Community Center field, here is everything you need to know to pace your day for success!

Q: Where is the Thousand Oaks Touch-a-Truck event located?

A: The 2026 event is held at the Thousand Oaks Community Center, located at 2525 N. Moorpark Road, Thousand Oaks, CA 91360. The trucks will be lined up on the soccer fields behind the center.

Q: Is there an admission fee for the Conejo Valley Touch-a-Truck event?

A: No! Admission to this CRPD event is completely free for all families and community members.

Q: What are the hours for the Touch-a-Truck event?

A: The event runs from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM on Saturday, June 20, 2026. Please note: There is no designated "quiet" or sensory hour listed for this event, so expect plenty of honking horns and sirens throughout the day!

Q: What types of vehicles will kids be able to explore?

A: Kids can get up close and personal with a massive variety of community vehicles, including construction equipment, emergency vehicles, and public service trucks.

Q: Are there free activities for kids at the event?

A: Yes! Stop by The Trucks that Saved Children’s Books booth to grab a Free Touch-a-Truck Scavenger Hunt Sheet. It’s a great educational adventure sheet that turns the event field into an interactive matching game for mini "world-schoolers". You can also enter to WIN a FREE Book set!

Q: When is the best time to arrive?

We played in the park before the event around 9:30a and some booths and trucks were ready early! There are less crowds at 10a than 11a.

We can't wait to see the big trucks, soak up some local sunshine, and chat with all of you. See you at the booth! 🚒🤙

Hyatt Place Santa Cruz Review: A Great Family Hotel Near the Boardwalk

We were looking for a family-friendly hotel in Santa Cruz and the Hyatt Place Santa Cruz ended up being a great fit for our trip.

Hyatt Place Santa Cruz

Location: 407 Broadway, Santa Cruz, CA 95060

We used our annual free night certificate from our Hyatt credit card, which honestly felt like a pretty great redemption.

The hotel had spacious rooms, free breakfast, a heated pool, and was close to so many toddler-friendly activities around Santa Cruz.

➡️ CHECK ROOM RATES HERE: HYATT PLACE SANTA CRUZ

Hyatt Place Santa Cruz had a very nice lobby to lounge in

Why We Chose Hyatt Place Santa Cruz for Our Family Trip

Traveling with toddlers means our hotel checklist looks a little different these days.

We wanted:

✔ Space for toddler beds
✔ Free breakfast
✔ Pool for downtime
✔ Close to the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk
✔ Easy access to family activities

The Hyatt Place Santa Cruz checked all of those boxes.

A fridge is always handy for leftovers or holding yogurts! The Hyatt Place Santa Cruz had a nice sized mini fridge.

My biggest complaint is the powdered milk for creamer in the room, but I just went downstairs and grabbed a freshly brewed coffee with cream in the morning.

Open mini fridge (empty) in Hyatt Place Santa Cruz

Hyatt Place Santa Cruz Amenities for Families

Free Breakfast that is included with Hyatt Santa Cruz room - eggs, French toast, sausage, potatoes

Free Breakfast Included

The hotel includes complimentary breakfast in the lobby area every morning.

When you have toddlers, quick food options are a lifesaver and while this wasn’t the best hotel breakfast we’ve ever had, it absolutely worked for busy mornings.

Breakfast options during our stay included:

• Fruit Loops and Cheerios for the kids

• Eggs

• Breakfast potatoes (hash browns or diced potatoes depending on the day)

• Sausage or bacon

• French toast, waffles, or pancakes

• Donut holes

• Bagels and toast

• Yogurt and granola

• Fresh fruit

Sometimes you just need food immediately with little ones and this definitely made mornings easier.

Pool at the Hyatt Place in Santa Cruz is perfect for kids

Heated Pool, Spa & Fire Pits

The pool area was another big hit for families.

Amenities included:

• Heated pool

• Spa / hot tub

• Outdoor rinse shower before heading back to your room

• Evening fire pits

• S’mores kits available for purchase

One note for families with little swimmers: the pool appeared to be under 5 feet deep, which felt very kid-friendly.

Large rooms at the Hyatt Place Santa Cruz - perfect for families

Spacious Rooms Make a Huge Difference with Toddlers

One thing we loved most was how spacious our room felt.

Our boys are in that awkward phase where they’re too big for cribs but we don’t trust them on tall hotel beds yet, so we travel with our Rigalo Toddler Inflatable beds.

Sometimes hotel rooms feel cramped once we set them up, but our room at Hyatt Place Santa Cruz felt huge.

We stayed in Room 331, which had a wider layout (some rooms appear longer and narrower).

The extra width gave us room for:

• Two toddler beds

• Walking space around them

• Storage space when not in use

• Enough open floor area that the boys could literally do cartwheels

We also had a slight view of the Santa Cruz Boardwalk and even a small peek of the ocean in the distance.

My favorite part of the room was the cozy couch nook! there is an “L” shaped pull out couch sofa with a lamp overhead creating a cute little nook where we sat and read bedtime stories. I had the boys snuggle up and we read a few of our favorite books we packed including The Trucks that Saved the Park!

Cozy nook at the Hyatt Place Santa Cruz - perfect for reading books to kids

Bathroom in hotel room at Hyatt Place Santa Cruz did not have a bath tub for kids

Hyatt Place Santa Cruz is a great central location

We loved the location of the Hyatt Place Santa Cruz because it was close to the boardwalk while also being within easy driving distance of several toddler activities.

Serpent Slide at San Lorenzo Park - walking distance from Hyatt Place Santa Cruz

Things to Do Near Hyatt Place Santa Cruz with Kids

San Lorenzo Park

Location: 137 Dakota Ave, Santa Cruz, CA 95060

We walked less than 10 mins to the San Lorenzo Park that had a cute playground! It had lots of structures to climb and burn out some kid afternoon energy. There was

Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk

Location: 400 Beach St, Santa Cruz, CA 95060

The hotel is about a 15-minute walk to the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk.

That said, personally I’m not sure I would choose to walk back after dark with little kids.

We drove and found parking by the boardwalk for $5 midweek in May 2026.

The valet mentioned nearby lots can reach around $30, especially on weekends.

Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park

Location: 101 N Big Trees Park Rd, Felton, CA 95018

One of our favorite stops was the flat Redwood Grove Loop Trail at Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park.

It was only about 15 minutes from the hotel and perfect for toddlers.

The loop is approximately one mile, mostly flat, and stroller friendly.

Roaring Camp Train in Santa Cruz - fun thing to do with toddlers

Ride the Roaring Camp Train Through the Redwoods

Location: 5401 Graham Hill Rd, Felton, CA 95018

Right next to the redwoods is Roaring Camp Railroads.

They offer train rides through the redwoods (we saw departures twice daily during our visit).

We were also told the Beach Train connecting the boardwalk and redwoods is beautiful, though it can be slower because it travels through town and stops frequently at crossings and intersections.

Final Thoughts: Is Hyatt Place Santa Cruz Worth It for Families?

For families traveling with toddlers and young kids, Hyatt Place Santa Cruz worked really well for us.

The highlights were definitely:

✔ Spacious rooms
✔ Free breakfast
✔ Heated pool and fire pits
✔ Close to the Boardwalk
✔ Easy access to toddler activities like Henry Cowell and Roaring Camp

If you travel with inflatable toddler beds like we do, the room size alone was a huge win.

➡️ CHECK ROOM RATES HERE: HYATT PLACE SANTA CRUZ

Hyatt House Anaheim Review: Our Favorite Family Hotel Near Disneyland

Sleeping Beauty’s Castle decorated for Disneyland’s 70th Anniversary

We love to stay at the Disneyland Resorts but if you’re looking for a budget family friendly hotel, the Hyatt House Anaheim Resort / Convention Center is one of our favorites!

Location: 1800 S Harbor Blvd, Anaheim, CA 92802

We have stayed here multiple times now and honestly… It is a closer to walk from the hotel than it is from the Disneyland parking structure.

It has become one of our favorite family hotels because it checks so many boxes when traveling with little kids:

✔ Walking distance to Disneyland
✔ Large family rooms
✔ Small kitchen area
✔ Sitting space to spread out
✔ Free breakfast
✔ Hyatt points and free night certificates can work here

As parents of little kids, having a hotel that gives us room to breathe after a long Disney day makes a HUGE difference.

➡️ CHECK ROOM RATES HERE: HYATT HOUSE ANAHEIM

Kitchen, desk, and sitting area in the kitchen suites of the Hyatt House Anahiem

Why We Keep Staying at Hyatt House Anaheim for Disneyland Trips

Disney trips with toddlers can be amazing… and also exhausting!

By the time we leave the parks our boys are usually tired, we are carrying snacks, souvenirs, maybe a stroller, and everyone just wants to get back quickly.

That is one reason we keep coming back to Hyatt House Anaheim.

The walk has always felt very manageable with kids, and once we get back we actually have room to spread out instead of all sitting on one hotel bed.

For us, it hits that sweet spot between close enough to Disneyland and comfortable enough for families. There is even an option to have a family suite with bunk beds! If you walk through Downtown Disney to the Disneyland Hotel, the distance to the Hyatt House is equivalent, if not closer!

Sitting area and couch sofa in kitchen suite at Hyatt House Anaheim

How Far Is Hyatt House Anaheim From Disneyland?

One of the biggest reasons we stay here is the location.

Hyatt House Anaheim Resort / Convention Center is within walking distance of Disneyland, and we have done the walk multiple times with kids. At half of a mile from the front door to the main entrance, that’s nothing on a Disney day!

Honestly, I have joked before that it almost feels closer than parking and walking from the structure.

After a full day at the most magical place on Earth, not needing another shuttle or long transfer is a win.

If you have little ones, strollers, or kids that suddenly “cannot walk anymore” after fireworks… being able to get back to the hotel fairly quickly is huge.

The Kitchen is equipped with everything you could possibly need - refrigerator, dish washer, coffee maker, microwave, and stove.

Hyatt House Anaheim Rooms: Why We Love Them for Families

This is probably my favorite part of staying here.

The rooms feel much more family-friendly than a standard hotel room. It’s called a kitchen suite and for good reason!

You get:

• Extra space to spread out

• Sitting area

• Small kitchen setup complete with dish washer and electric stove

• Refrigerator for snacks and drinks

• More room for all the Disney stuff that somehow multiplies during the trip

• We almost always stock the room with fruit, cereal, snacks, yogurt, and easy breakfast foods.

Not every meal needs to be a Disney meal.

Sometimes everyone is happier with strawberries and cereal before rope drop.

Hyatt House Anaheim rooms are perfect for families visiting Disneyland. Double beds or room for cribs and toddler beds.

Hyatt House Anaheim Free Breakfast: Is It Worth It?

I’ll be honest…

This is not the most amazing hotel breakfast we have ever had.

BUT.

Not paying for one extra Disney meal? That is a win in my book. Especially for families.

Breakfast usually works well enough for us to grab something quick before heading out, and then we supplement with our own snacks and fruit in the room.

Disney days add up fast, so saving even one meal for four people can make a difference.

Yogurt, granola, fruit, donut holes, eggs, breakfast potato option, bagels, bananas, cereal, milk, juice, COFFEE, and tea. There is something for everyone. We loved the donut holes which our little ones called bagels… 🤷🏻‍♀️

Our Toddler boy visiting Mater in Radiator Springs in California Adventure in the Disneyland Resort

PLANNING A DISNEYLAND TRIP WITH TODDLERS OR YOUNG KIDS?

→ Start here with our Disneyland with toddlers post

Using Hyatt Points at Hyatt House Anaheim

One of the extra reasons we love staying here is that Hyatt points and free night certificates can sometimes work here.

We have used Hyatt stays to help offset family travel costs before, and this hotel has become one of our favorite ways to use those benefits near Disneyland.

If you already collect Hyatt points, this one is worth checking.

Is Hyatt House Anaheim Good for Families?

For us? Absolutely.

Especially if you have:

• Toddlers

• Preschoolers

• Kids who still nap or need downtime

• Families wanting more space than a traditional room

• Parents trying to keep food costs down

Pros

✔ Walking distance to Disneyland
✔ Larger family-friendly rooms
✔ Kitchen area + fridge
✔ Sitting space
✔ Free breakfast
✔ Hyatt points eligible

Cons

✖ Breakfast is fine, not amazing
✖ Popular family hotel so it can feel busy, especially in the morning and at night
✖ Disneyland days still mean tired little legs on the walk back
kids walking to their hotel - where to stay with toddler boys near the Disneyland Resort
kids walking to their hotel - where to stay with toddler boys near the Disneyland Resort

Hyatt House Anaheim vs Staying at a Disneyland Hotel

We have stayed both on-property and off-property over the years, and honestly this has become one of our favorite Disneyland hotel choices.

You get more room.

You still have walkability.

You can keep snacks in the room.

And depending on your stay, it can be significantly less expensive.

For our family, that balance has made it our repeat choice.

Hyatt House Anaheim FAQ

Is Hyatt House Anaheim walking distance to Disneyland?

Yes! Hyatt House Anaheim is about half a mile from the Disneyland entrance, and we’ve walked it multiple times with little kids.

Does Hyatt House Anaheim have free breakfast?

Yes, breakfast is included. It’s not fancy, but it saves us from buying one extra Disney meal, which is a big win for families.

Is Hyatt House Anaheim good for families?

Yes. The larger rooms, kitchen suites, sitting space, fridge, and free breakfast make it a great option for families visiting Disneyland.

Can you use Hyatt points at Hyatt House Anaheim?

Yes, Hyatt points and free night certificates may work here depending on availability.

Does Hyatt House Anaheim have kitchen suites?

Yes. Some rooms have kitchen suites with a full sized refrigerator, microwave, dishwasher, coffee maker, and electric stove.

Final Thoughts: Would We Stay at Hyatt House Anaheim Again?

Yes. Without hesitation.

This has honestly become our go-to Disneyland hotel.

The combination of location, space, kitchen setup, breakfast, and family-friendly rooms keeps bringing us back.

And when you are traveling with little kids, finding a hotel that simply makes the trip easier is worth a lot.

➡️ Book now: HYATT HOUSE ANAHEIM

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Disneyland With Toddlers: 10 Tips We Learned Visiting With Two Little Boys

One of my favorite parts of Disneyland with toddlers isn’t even the rides — it’s watching them take it all in. ✨

Disneyland with toddlers is one of those trips that feels equally magical and slightly chaotic at the same time.

We’ve now visited Disneyland multiple times with our two boys and every trip we learn something new. We’ve learned where to start, which rides are actually worth it for little kids, when Rider Swap saves the day, and which waits are absolutely not worth it with toddlers. Don’t miss our Southern California ticket hack too!

If you’re heading to Disneyland with little ones, these are the tips that have worked best for our family.

Look closely - Mary Poppins and Bert are often found in Fantasyland!

1. Bring ALL the Snacks (and Don’t Feel Like You Have to Take the Tram)

My number one Disneyland tip for toddlers? Snacks. So many snacks. Don’t forget to bring some for you too.

We usually load up before heading into the parks because little kids seem to become hungry approximately every 17 minutes at Disneyland.

We always bring a stroller because it ends up carrying everything — snacks, water bottles, jackets, souvenirs, and occasionally tired children. Also, you might want to put an Airtag in the stroller in case you forget where it is!

One thing to know though: if you take the tram from the parking garage, you have to fold the stroller. Our stroller is a pain to fold so we usually skip the tram entirely and walk through Downtown Disney to the parks instead. It’s an easy walk and saves us the stroller fold-up process.

Sleeping Beauty's castle decorated for the 70th Anniversary celebration at Disneyland.

2. Get There Right When the Park Opens

If you only take one piece of advice from this post, let it be this:

Get there early!

The first few hours of the day are magic at Disneyland with toddlers.

Wait times are shorter, it’s cooler outside, kids still have energy, and you can knock out several rides before the crowds build.

Rope drop is absolutely worth it for families. Besides, aren’t you up at the crack of dawn anyway?!

3. Start in Toontown

If you have toddlers, Toontown is our favorite place to start.

Our boys love:

• Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway

• Gadget’s Go Coaster

• Exploring Toontown

• Meeting Mickey in his house

Meeting Mickey first thing in the morning has usually meant shorter waits for us too.

Toontown just feels made for little kids and is such a fun way to start the day.

There is a stationary Dumbo when you get off the ride so you can get that picture perfect shot!

4. Keep an Eye on Fantasyland Wait Times (or Head to Big Thunder!)

Fantasyland is obviously classic Disneyland toddler territory, but don’t forget to watch the wait times. Don’t wait more than 40 mins for anything. Dumbo is great but only when the line is 20 mins or less.

And if you happen to have a little thrill seeker…

Big Thunder Mountain might surprise you.

Our son LOVES Big Thunder.

A 20–30 minute wait for Big Thunder is pretty good in our book, and it has become one of his favorite rides. There is a 40 inches height requirement for this one! Check before you go!

We also LOVE Buzz Lightyear’s Astro Blasters.

5. Learn Rider Swap — It Is the Parent Hack Nobody Told Us About

Rider Swap is one of the best things Disneyland offers for families with little kids.

Here’s how it works:

If one child is too small (or doesn’t want to ride), one parent rides first while the other waits with the younger child.

Then the second parent gets to ride without waiting in the full line again.

You just need to talk to the Cast Member at the ride entrance before anyone gets in line.

We’ve used Rider Swap on so many attractions and it makes a huge difference.

It’s especially helpful if you have one toddler who loves bigger rides and one who isn’t ready yet.

Galaxy’s Edge ended up being way more toddler-friendly than we expected. Meeting Chewbacca was a huge hit for our little Star Wars fan. ✨

6. Don’t Skip Galaxy’s Edge if Your Kids Love Star Wars

Our boys are huge Star Wars fans and Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run was a massive hit.

Honestly, Galaxy’s Edge ended up being way more toddler-friendly than I expected.

Even walking around the land was fun for them. Give Chewbacca a high five and say hi to Han Solo!

If you have little Star Wars fans, definitely add this to your Disneyland day.

Mater’s Junkyard Jamboree is the best toddler ride and relatively short line!

7. California Adventure Has Some Great Toddler Rides Too

We love Disneyland, but California Adventure has become one of our boys’ favorites too.

Our must-do rides are:

• WEB SLINGERS: A Spider-Man Adventure

• Mater’s Junkyard Jamboree

• The Little Mermaid

Mater is always a hit.

And The Little Mermaid is such a nice break when you need air conditioning and a slower ride.

Eat at Flo’s and catch Lightning McQueen an Mater roll by!

8. Don’t Wait in the Radiator Springs Racers Line

This may be my slightly controversial Disneyland opinion…

Don’t wait in the regular Radiator Springs Racers line.

We have almost never seen it under an hour and it breaks down fairly often.

If it fits your budget, this is the ride I would consider buying Lightning Lane for.

And if you can combine it with Rider Swap? Even better.

Pro Tip: Our favorite place to eat is Flo’s Cafe. If you sit in the back patio area, Lightning and Mater drive by! Chicken nuggets and fries for the kiddos is one of our favorite meals there.

Meeting Mater and Lighting McQueen was DEFINITELY a highlight for our little Cars fan!

9. Pixar Pier Is Great for Toy Story Fans

If your kids love Toy Story, don’t miss Pixar Pier.

Toy Story Midway Mania is one of our family favorites and is always a hit.

There’s just something about competing for points that keeps everyone happy — kids and adults included. I will beat Josh one day… I swear!

10. Don’t Miss the Spider-Man Show in California Adventure

One thing that surprised us was how much our boys loved the Spider-Man training show near the entrance of California Adventure.

The show runs pretty frequently (about every 50 minutes or so) and lasts around 10 minutes.

You don’t need a huge strategy here.

We usually just walk over when it’s about to start.

Bonus: you can often meet Spider-Man nearby too.

Buzz Lightyear greeting our toddler at the beginning of the ride.

What We Pack for Disneyland With Toddlers

A few things we always bring:

✔ Snacks (LOTS!)
✔ Refillable water bottles
✔ Stroller
✔ Portable charger
✔ Change of clothes
✔ Hats + sunscreen
✔ Small toys for line waiting (always Hot Wheels cars - we have them everywhere)
✔ Extra wipes (always)

For quieter moments back at the hotel, we also usually pack a few screen-free activities.

Lately our boys have loved bringing books from The Trucks That Saved series and truck activities for downtime between park days.

Disney days are amazing, but having a little quiet hotel reset time has helped us a lot.

More Disneyland Posts You Might Like

Planning a holiday Disney trip?

→ Read our Disneyland at Halloween guide or Disneyland at Christmas guide

Need a sweet break between rides?

→ Check out our favorite Disneyland desserts

Disney fan?

→ Check out Walt Disney’s Office

Southern California Parent Hack: Use the 3-Day Resident Ticket

If you live in Southern California, this is one of our favorite Disneyland hacks.

Disneyland often offers a Southern California resident 3-day ticket between January and mid-May, and one of the best parts is that the days typically do not have to be consecutive.

We love this because it makes Disneyland feel so much more manageable with toddlers.

Instead of trying to squeeze everything into one long weekend, we can spread visits out and move at toddler pace.

Just make sure to check Disneyland’s current offers because they change year to year. Costco also sometimes offers a 3-day pass!

Our Favorite Family Hotel Near Disneyland

We almost always stay at Hyatt House Anaheim Resort / Convention Center and honestly… I think it might actually feel closer to walk from there than the parking structure.

It has become one of our favorite family hotel stays because it checks so many boxes for traveling with kids.

What we love:

✔ Walking distance to Disneyland
✔ Large rooms for families
✔ Small kitchen area
✔ Sitting space to spread out
✔ Free breakfast
✔ Hyatt free night certificates or points can work here

The breakfast isn’t the most amazing hotel breakfast we’ve ever had, but not paying for one extra Disney meal is a win in my book.

I’m planning a full review because this has honestly become our go-to Disneyland hotel.

Hyatt House Anahiem Resort Convention Center

1800 S Harbor Blvd., Anaheim, CA 92802, United States of America

+1 714 971 1800

Final Thoughts: Disneyland With Toddlers Is So Worth It

Disneyland with toddlers definitely looks different than pre-kid Disney trips.

There are more snack breaks, slower mornings, stroller parking, and bathroom stops…

But there’s also seeing Mickey through their eyes for the first time, watching them light up on their favorite ride, and hearing them talk about the trip for weeks afterward. 🥹

And honestly? That magic is pretty hard to beat.

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More Disneyland Posts:

Free Truck Scavenger Hunt for Kids (Galactic Theme!) | Screen-Free Activity

Free truck scavenger hunt - Galactic themed!

May the Fourth be with you! 🚧✨

Looking for a fun, screen-free activity for your truck-loving kids? We created this FREE Galactic Truck Mission to turn a simple walk into an adventure! My kids LOVE trucks and they love Star Wars, this was the perfect activity to play in the car together!

Kids can search for:
🔴 a red truck
🚧 a BIG truck
💡 a truck with lights
💨 a FAST truck

…and more!

It’s perfect for toddlers, preschoolers, and early elementary kids.

Make it extra fun for May the Fourth by calling it a “truck mission!” 🚀

Download your free printable HERE:

Free Truck Scavenger Hunt for Kids (Galactic Theme!) | Screen-Free Activity

🚧 How to use it:

Take it on a walk, in the car, or even around your neighborhood. Let your kids point, spot, and get excited when they find each truck!

💛 If your kids love trucks, they’ll also love our book:

The Trucks That Saved the Park‍ ‍

✨ Want more easy activities like this?

Grab more free printables here

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The Ultimate Guide to Ice Cream Trucks and Catering in Los Angeles (2026 Menu & Tracker)

Mister Softee is my favorite ice cream truck in Los Angeles

Best Ice Cream Trucks with menus you need to try in LA!

Updated: April 28, 2026 - Original Post: 2020

If you haven’t noticed by now, we love trucks and ice cream around here, and living in Los Angeles, there are a lot of ice cream truck and catering options. These aren’t your creepy vans that sell Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtle pops, these are exceptional artisan ice cream trucks that Angelino’s seek out!

Ice cream trucks are fun for parties and work functions, but also nice to enjoy when they are in your area.

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Sweet N Hollow Chimney Cake

Trucks for Kids!

If you’ve read the latest adventure in my children’s book series, The Trucks That Saved, you know that the ice cream truck is the ultimate hero that brings the whole park together!

Seeing these incredible trucks in Los Angeles reminds me so much of that spirit of community and joy.

Whether we're exploring the city for a travel guide or reading about our favorite truck friends, it’s all about those sweet moments.

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The Top Ice Cream Trucks in Los Angeles Neighborhood (2026 Edition)

The classic pre-packaged bar model has evolved into a world of artisanal scoops and Instagram-ready treats. Here are the most popular trucks currently dominating the LA food scene:

1. The Aesthetic & Artisanal Ice Cream Truck Menu Leaders

Recess Ice Cream Truck sundae with chocolate sauce served at a work event

• Creamy Boys Ice Cream Truck

  Arguably the most "Instagrammable" truck in LA right now. They specialize in New Zealand-style Real Fruit Ice Cream, blending fresh fruit into a vanilla base on the spot.

  Their custom-branded wraps make them a favorite for major brand activations and influencer events.

• Recess Ice Cream Truck

  Known for its "back-to-school" nostalgia, this truck focuses on ultra-premium, small-batch ice cream with high butterfat content. They are legendary for their "un-cone-ditional" hospitality and creative cookie sandwiches.

  The Menu: Recess offers fun options like french toast sliders, frozen hot chocolate, ice cream sandwiches, sundaes, and more!

  We ordered this truck a few times for work functions (located in Burbank) and the Recess Ice Cream Truck didn’t disappoint!

• Van Leeuwen Ice Cream Truck

  I often see the Van Leeuwen truck on Abbott Kinney on the Westside, but you can also rent for parties, weddings, baby showers, wedding showers, birthdays, and events!

  The Menu: Their artisan ice cream flavors will please any audience and they offer gluten-free and vegan flavors!

McConnell’s Fine Ice Creams Truck in Los Angeles

• McConnell’s Fine Ice Cream Truck

  “Have ice cream, will travel” is this Santa Barbara-based company’s motto! LA locals are familiar with McConnell’s scoop shops around town and their ice cream truck can often be found at street fairs.

  You can book them for parties, weddings, corporate events, and more!

  The Menu: Delicious creamy scoops of ice cream flavors that are irresistible.

Oat-ly Ice Cream Truck in Los Angeles

• Oat-ly Ice Cream Truck

  The Menu: Oat-ly is an original oat milk company from Sweden that turns nutritious liquid oat milk into ice cream! It’s plant-based, vegan, and gluten-free!

  Oat-ly also are earth-conscious, making their ice cream while reducing their carbon footprint as much as possible.

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Download a free truck scavenger hunt for kids - screen-free activity for toddlers

🚒 Want to make your Ice Cream Truck hunt even more fun?

Download my Free Truck Hero Scavenger Hunt Printable! It’s the perfect way to keep the little ones engaged while you track down the best scoops in LA. See if you can spot all 17 truck heroes—including the ice cream truck!

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2. The Niche & Unique Crowd-Pleasers

• Blaque Parlor Ice Cream Truck

  • Famous for its striking organic black ice cream, this truck fits the "edgy" LA aesthetic perfectly. It is a top choice for luxury brand events and stylish weddings.

• Ridges Churro Bar

  • This fan favorite serves Churro Sundaes—creamy soft serve topped with warm, artisanal churro loops. It consistently ranks as one of the most-liked dessert trucks on local food platforms.

• Saffron & Rose Ice Cream Truck

  Bringing their Westwood brick-and-mortar quality to the streets, their mobile truck serves Persian Ice Cream featuring flavors like rosewater, saffron, and pistachio.

SuperCool Creamery ice cream catering with a touch of magic

• SuperCool Creamery Catering - Ice Cream and a Magic Show

  Supercool combines ice cream and magic with a little liquid nitrogen! Fantastic flavors and a variety of toppings (including booze), they’ll add pizaazz to any party!

  The Menu: Nitro-artisan ice cream, nitro-artisan frozen cocktails, and a fabulous toppings bar. Gotta try the Dragon’s Breath - patrons chew frozen corn puffs with mouths closed and breath smoke out of their nose!

  Kosher and dairy free options are available, see the full menu here.

  They used to have a shop in Silver Lake but are currently only offering their catering service.

  🎩 See our full post: SuperCool Creamery Review

  Great for corporate function, red carpet premieres, kids parties, and more!

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Mister Softee Ice Cream Truck

3. The Cult Classics & Modernized Favorites

• CVT Soft Serve Truck

  CVT’s goal is to make the best soft serve around! Using local California dairy, they have perfected their soft serve and claim it is the best west of the Atlantic. As they say, “is it arrogant if it’s true?” Their comedic and transparent personality makes for a great follow on their Instagram! Whatever you do, don’t ask them for free things in exchange for social media posts, Influencers pay double! #welovemostofourcustomers

  The Menu: Simple Soft Serve choices of chocolate, vanilla, or twist. Their East Coast-style soft serve and vintage truck are iconic in the city.

• Mister Softee Southern CA

  My personal favorite!!! This isn't your average neighborhood truck; it’s a high-end, polished fleet. They recently expanded with "Surfside Softee’s Bikes & Carts," perfect for smaller event spaces.

The classic Mister Softee ice cream truck menu has received a polished, high-end makeover for the Southern California scene.. From traditional dipped cones to the new "Surfside" specialties, it’s a menu built for modern LA adventures.

• Goodies Truck

  A clean, professional take on the traditional model, serving classic pre-packaged bars from a bright, trusted truck.

• King Kone Ice Cream Truck

  The Menu: If you’re looking for soft serve and sprinkles, this truck’s got you covered! Their menu doesn’t end there, try an ice cream sandwich, milkshake, or banana split!

  No matter what, there is something for everyone!

• Happy Ice Truck

  You can spot this truck from miles away with the vibrant colors.

  The Menu: Happy Ice, per their website, is an “ultra-premium Water Ice product, made from a secret recipe from Philadelphia with an artistic LA twist. It has the smooth, rich, creamy texture of ice cream and the light, fruity refreshment of a sorbet, without egg or dairy products of any kind.”

  It is also black-owned business, show some support!

• Kona Shaved Ice Truck

  Have a luau or tropical island-themed party? Have some authentic shave Ice to go with your tiki decor!

  The Menu: Shaved ice, fruit smoothies, Tops - sour powder, Kandy spoons

  They even do fundraisers for functions like schools and sports teams!

  My favorite detail, they offer color changing cups! Great truck for kids birthday parties - colorful truck, cute characters, endless flavor combinations.

King Kone Ice Cream Truck Soft Serve cone with sprinkles in Los Angeles

The Sound of Summer: Iconic Ice Cream Truck Music

Nothing signals the start of summer in LA quite like the distant, tinkling jingle of an ice cream truck. Whether it's the classic "Turkey in the Straw" or the unmistakable Mister Softee theme, that music is the universal "bat-signal" for a sweet escape.

In my children’s book, The Trucks That Saved, the jingle is more than just a song—it's the signal that the hero has arrived to save the day at the park!

Looking for more sweet inspiration? If these jingles have you feeling nostalgic, check out my ultimate list of Ice Cream Quotes & Songs to find the perfect caption for your next sundae selfie.

Finding the Best Ice Cream Truck Near You in Los Angeles

While these trendy trucks travel all over the city, finding an ice cream truck near you in a place as big as LA requires a little bit of "insider" knowledge. Most of the trucks on this list don't just wander neighborhoods; they park at specific "sweet spots" like First Fridays in Venice, Smorgasburg LA, Marina del Rey’s Beach Eats, or popular parks like Lake Balboa and Griffith Park.

Pro-Explorer Tip: The best way to track down a specific truck "near me" in real-time is to check their Instagram Stories. Most LA favorites, like Creamy Boys and Ridges Churro Bar, post their daily "GPS" locations every morning.

Just like in my book, The Trucks That Saved, the best part of finding a truck hero is the community that gathers around it! Whether you find them at a local park or a city festival, it’s all about those shared sweet moments.

RIP Ice Cream Trucks

A few ice cream trucks that were amazing but have ceased operation and are deeply missed:

• Blast Ice Cream Truck

• Sweet n Hollow Ice Cream Truck

Blast Ice Cream Truck - no longer in service

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Love trucks as much as we do?

At The Sweetest Escapes, we believe every journey should be a little bit sweeter. If your little ones loved learning about these LA ice cream trucks, they’ll fall in love with the heroes in The Trucks That Saved book series.

📚🚚 Shop the Books & Travel Guides here: www.thesweetestescapes.com/trucks-that-saved

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Please note this is not a sponsored post and based on my own personal experience, all thoughts are my own.

If you liked this post please share it on your favorite social media site using the Share button below because we’d love to get the word out! Feel free to pin this to your favorite Pinterest board:

Best Ice Cream Trucks in Los Angeles

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More Los Angeles Posts:

Toddler Friendly Guide and Itinerary for Spring and Summer in Lake Tahoe

Pine trees, Lake Tahoe views from high above in Heavenly gondola ski lift

Last Updated: April 2026 | Originally Published: 2025

From Playgrounds to Pine Trees: Lake Tahoe Adventures for Tiny Feet

There were many summers that I went with my family to Lake Tahoe growing up and I couldn’t wait to take my little family! I did have to do some research as I was curious about what activities we could do with two toddlers!

Planning a Lake Tahoe family vacation with toddlers can seem daunting, but it's easier than you think! As a parent who's enjoyed countless Tahoe trips since childhood, I’ve compiled the ultimate toddler-friendly guide to Lake Tahoe, packed with things to do with toddlers in South Lake Tahoe and beyond. Discover the best parks for kids in Lake Tahoe, like the scenic Thomas F. Regan Memorial City Beach Park or the playground paradise of Kahle Park. Looking for easy hikes with toddlers in Lake Tahoe?

Glen Alpine Falls offers a stunning waterfall view with minimal effort, perfect for little legs. Don't miss out on enjoying a family picnic at Lake Tahoe at spots like Kiva Beach or Pope Beach. For North Lake Tahoe activities, the newly accessible Tahoe East Shore Trail (often called the 'Impossible Trail') is a paved, stroller-friendly wonder. Explore the charming town of Truckee, home to the fantastic KidZone Museum, a top pick for toddler fun near Lake Tahoe. When it comes to where to stay in South Lake Tahoe with toddlers, options range from VRBO cabin rentals to family-friendly hotels like the Holiday Inn Express. And for dining, I'll share toddler-friendly restaurants in Lake Tahoe like Riva Grill on the Lake and Edgewood's Brooks' Bar and Deck, where you can savor delicious meals with stunning views. Get ready for an unforgettable Lake Tahoe adventure with small children!

Shop our Amazon list for our favorite things to pack with toddlers!

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Best toddler-friendly activities and things to do in South Lake Tahoe

heavenly Gondolas from the Heavenly Village Center

Heavenly Gondolas

Location: 4080 Lake Tahoe Blvd, South Lake Tahoe, CA 96150

Heavenly Village Giant Chair made of Skiis

This was a great idea… kids under 5 ride free (adults are currently $124) and it’s unlimited rides for the day. It sounded perfect, however, they were closed the duration we were there and re-opening for summer just before Memorial Day.

Note: they aren’t open every day, so it’s a great idea but just check the website to make sure they are open!

All else fails, the shopping center around the Gondola base is fantastic. Tons of restaurants and stores to explore and some grassy areas to run around. In summer months, there is a mini golf course and a trampoline adventure in the center of the plaza.

Making it a road trip? See our Toddler Road Trip Essentials. You won’t want to miss our favorite toys for the car and hotel room!

Thomas F. Regan Memorial City Beach Park

Parks and Recreation

There are tons of parks in Lake Tahoe and we found some awesome playgrounds!

Thomas F. Regan Memorial City Beach Park

Location: 3199 Sacramento Ave, South Lake Tahoe, CA 96150

Located right on the water with perfect lake views, parking lot, and restrooms! The playground was small but there were a few slides and swings as well as a beach volleyball court and lots of grass to run around!

Kahle Park

Location: 236 Kingsbury Grade Rd, Stateline, NV 89449

Nestled higher up in the mountains, there’s a really fun park with partial lake views. There’s a playground for 2-5-year-olds and one for 5-12-year-olds. Our kids played on both playgrounds.

Speaking of PARK, get The Trucks that Saved the Park story book and coloring book for your trip!

Glen Alpine Falls at Fallen Leaf Lake

See a Waterfall (without much of a hike!)

Glen Alpine Falls - 1580 Glen Alpine Rd, South Lake Tahoe, CA 96150

My toddlers are over 30 pounds and I didn’t really want to hike with them as it would be fun for 5 minutes and then I’d be required to carry one for the rest of the duration. Luckily, Glen Alpine Falls is located just off of Fallen Leaf Lake and literally can be seen from the road! We went midweek around 11a and it wasn’t very crowded with front-row parking!

There’s a split rock with a little deck that my littles liked to climb on. Afterward, we drove down to the Kiva picnic area (follow the Tallac signs) and had lunch on a picnic table steps away from the lake. It was about a 5-minute walk to those tables by the lake but there were also some closer to the parking lot with bathrooms! The path was flat so we loaded up our wagon and were able to only carry one kid who didn’t want to ride in the wagon! Win! My only complaint is that the tables are wood and old so I would bring towels to sit on next time. Luckily no splinters incidents on this adventure!

Shop our Amazon list for our favorite things to pack!

Kiva Beach Picnic

Go for a Picnic!

Why is a picnic at Lake Tahoe so much fun? For starters, it's a chance to relish the crystal-clear waters and graze on delicious food with breathtaking mountain views as your backdrop. You get to enjoy the glorious Lake Tahoe sunshine (which is usually a breeze in June!), the crisp mountain air, and maybe even some antsy entertainment if a few uninvited guests try to join your feast, though the views will surely distract you. It’s a delightful escape from the usual routine, and let's be honest, everything just tastes better when you're eating on a blanket with the magnificent Big Blue just a stone's throw away. Plus, there's always the excitement of seeing what surprises are in the basket – it's truly a sand-witch of an adventure, especially when you're surrounded by one of nature's most stunning masterpieces!

There are so many places to picnic around the lake:

• Kiva Beach

• Emerald Bay State Beach

• Kings Beach

• Zephyr Cove Park

• Pope Beach

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Trucks that Saved the Park coloring and story book great story to bring when traveling with kids

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Blue Health: The "Alpine Water" Reset for the Whole Family

Lake Tahoe is more than just a beautiful destination; it is the ultimate Blue Health Escape. The lake’s legendary clarity and specific deep blue hues offer a science-backed "mental reset" that benefits every generation.

• For Kids: The calm, shallow waters at parks like Sand Harbor or Pope Beach provide restorative sensory play. Watching the ripple of the clear alpine water helps settle busy growing minds.

• For Grandparents: The quiet, expansive views of the lake offer a peaceful environment for relaxation and connection without the overstimulation of more crowded tourist spots.

• Multi-Gen Pro-Tip: The Alpine Reset Take a moment to sit together by the water’s edge. In 2026, travel is about "slowing down" to appreciate the science of nature’s calming effects on our mental well-being.

Multi-generational Logistics: Finding the "Middle Ground"

The key to a successful three-generation trip to Tahoe is balancing shared communal spaces with private retreats.

What are the best multi-generational resorts in Lake Tahoe?

Look for properties that offer "Accessibility with Dignity"—meaning everyone can enjoy the standout moments regardless of mobility.

• The Shared Space Strategy: Consider booking condos or lodges with ground-floor access and communal kitchens. This allows for slow, easy breakfasts together before heading out for the day's adventures.

• Caesars Republic Lake Tahoe (formerly Harveys) – Spacious rooms with incredible lake views make this a perfect multi-generational stay. We loved having connecting rooms so the kids had space to play, while parents and grandparents could easily sneak away for a drink or head up to the rooftop restaurant for dinner with a view. See more on this hotel below!

• Paved Exploration: We highly recommend the East Shore Trail. This 3-mile paved path is perfect for a stroller and a grandparent who prefers level ground, all while offering spectacular lake views.

Low-Impact, High-Reward: The Best Multi-Gen Hike in Tahoe

One of our favorite discoveries was a stunning waterfall hike that is perfect for toddlers and grandparents alike.

• The Waterfall & Stream: This particular spot is a "hidden gem" because the waterfall and the stream leading to it are very close to the road. This ensures that even those with limited mobility can experience the "Blue Health" benefits of rushing water without a strenuous trek.

  • As mentioned, see more details above - Glen Alpine Falls - 1580 Glen Alpine Rd, South Lake Tahoe, CA 96150

• Pacing for Success: This stop provides a high-visual impact moment with minimal effort, ensuring every generation feels included in the "standout moments" of the trip.

Planning a Tahoe trip with kids? These free printable games are an easy way to keep little ones engaged while you explore the lake.

The "Helper" Tour: A Lake Tahoe Truck Scavenger Hunt

To add an Educational Adventure to your trip, keep an eye out for the "Real-Life Heroes" that keep the Tahoe basin running.

Finding the Trucks That Saved the Lake

Living in Southern California, we don't often see the heavy-duty machinery required for mountain life. Our kids were fascinated by:

• Snowplows: Even in the warmer months, you can often find these massive "helpers" parked and ready for the next big winter storm.

• Lumber Trucks & Fire Stations: Tahoe is home to many specialized vehicles used for forest management and community safety.

• Vertical Helpers (Gondolas): While not exactly trucks, the gondolas heading up the mountains are incredible machines. Challenge your kids to spot the "wheels at the top" that keep everyone moving safely up the slopes!

Literary Travel Tip: As you spot these vehicles, it’s the perfect time to talk about teamwork and community helpers. We love reading The Trucks That Saved the Park while watching real-life versions of our favorite characters at work.

To make your 'Helper Tour' even more fun, we created a printable Bingo game!

📥 GIVEAWAY: "Want to keep the kids busy while you enjoy the lake views?

Click here to download our Free Tahoe Helper Bingo Game!

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Best things to do in North Lake Tahoe

Impossible trail - Tahoe East Shore Trail

Location: Tahoe East Shore Trail, 1924 Tahoe Blvd, Incline Village, NV 89451

It’s called the Impossible Trail by the locals because it took forever to build but if you look it up on google maps, it’s call the Tahoe East Shore Trail!

🥾 The "Impossible Trail" in Lake Tahoe, more formally known as the Tahoe East Shore Trail, earned its dramatic moniker because constructing a path along this rugged and incredibly scenic stretch of shoreline was once considered an almost insurmountable feat.

For decades, accessing the breathtaking beaches and coves along Lake Tahoe's East Shore was challenging and often dangerous, with vehicles and pedestrians sharing a narrow, winding highway. The idea of building a safe, dedicated pathway seemed "impossible" given the complex terrain, environmental concerns, and the need for collaboration among numerous agencies.

However, through extensive planning, funding, and engineering, this dream became a reality, transforming the "Impossible Trail" into "America's Most Beautiful Bikeway."

This paved, 3-mile trail is absolutely wonderful for toddlers and families. Its smooth, wide surface makes it perfect for strollers, trikes, and little wobbly walkers, eliminating concerns about uneven terrain or roots. The trail hugs the shoreline, offering continuous, stunning lake views that will captivate even the youngest adventurers. With numerous access points to secluded beaches and picnic spots, families can easily hop off the trail for a splash in the crystal-clear water, a snack break, or simply to marvel at the massive granite boulders.

The lack of significant inclines means little legs won't get too tired, ensuring a fun, accessible, and truly memorable outdoor experience for everyone, making it far from "impossible" to enjoy with your tiny explorers!

Truckee

Location: KidZone Museum, 11711 Donner Pass Rd, Truckee, CA 96161

While the glittering waters of Lake Tahoe are the main draw, the charming mountain town of Truckee, located about an hour's drive (approximately 44-45 miles) north of South Lake Tahoe, offers a fantastic change of pace and a wealth of toddler-friendly activities. Truckee's historic downtown is a delight to explore with its old-west charm, train tracks (a huge hit with train-loving tots!), and unique shops.

For active little ones, the KidZone Museum is a must-visit, providing interactive, hands-on exhibits designed specifically for young children, offering hours of engaging play.

You can also head to Donner Lake (just a short drive from downtown Truckee) for a different lakeside experience with sandy beaches and calm waters perfect for splashing and building sandcastles.

Many of the larger resorts in the Truckee/Northstar area also offer fantastic summer activities for families, including mini-golf, outdoor play areas, and even gentle scenic gondola rides that provide stunning views without strenuous hiking. Truckee truly rounds out a Lake Tahoe adventure by offering a blend of history, indoor fun, and easily accessible outdoor spaces for the little ones.

Speaking of TRUCKS…

Get your free printable now! Play in the car anytime, anywhere!

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Where to Stay with Toddlers in South Lake Tahoe

There are a lot of adorable cabin rentals that you can book through Booking.com - just turn on the search option for “Vacation Homes”.

Caesars Republic

Location: 18 Hwy 50, Stateline, NV 89449

We have stayed at Harvey’s a few times which is now called Caesars Republic and currently under major renovation.

However, the rooms are spacious with lots of lake view options! There is a casino which isn’t great for kids, but good if you want to take turns going down to gamble or go to a bar when the children are sleeping!

There’s an outdoor pool, spa, and fitness center too. Though I’ve never seen the fitness center, good for you if you make it!

The restaurants are great but not exactly kid friendly! Here’s what you need to know:

Hell’s Kitchen by Gordon Ramseydoes not have a dedicated kids' menu, but they are accommodating to families and can offer options for children. Yelp users report that servers can usually suggest items from the main menu or prepare something simple like chicken tenders or mac and cheese. 

Wolf by Vanderpump doesn’t have a kids menu either and is 21+ after 8p.

My favorite restaurant is the Sage Room which is located on the 19th floor with a perfect view of the lake! Try and get a reservation ahead of time around sunset. Again, they don’t have a kids menu but check ahead of time to see if there is something your tot might be into.

Holiday Inn Express Exterior

Budget friendly option - Holiday Inn Express Lake Tahoe

Location: 3961 Lake Tahoe Blvd, South Lake Tahoe, CA 96150

We had a free night through our IHG credit card that was expiring and we decided to give Holiday Inn Express a try. For a 3-star hotel, it was great. We got the double queen room with an extra floor space option, which was perfect for our two tots to run around or play with the knock-off magnatile set (Picasso Magnet Mini tile travel set). Our stay included free breakfast and was walkable to the Heavenly shops and restaurants as well as the state-line casinos!

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Where to Dine with Toddlers in Lake Tahoe

Chances are your toddler sits for 5-10 minutes and then is bored. No matter how many toys, coloring books, or crayons I pack, all I want is someone to serve me a nice meal to enjoy. Here are a few spots that we had good luck with:

Riva Grill views

Riva Grill on the Lake

900 Ski Run Blvd, South Lake Tahoe, CA 96150

I love this place! It’s right on the water and there is plenty to see if you’re sitting inside or outside! The tables outside on the patio were large so we could sprawl out with coloring books and food. There’s even a walkway just off to the side if you have to take a breather or wait for Dad to pay the check. Get a Woody drink!

Edgewood's Brooks Bar and Deck on the patio overlooking a golf course and Lake Tahoe

Edgewood’s Brook’s Bar and Deck

180 Lake Pkwy, Stateline, NV 89449

For a memorable dining experience that caters to both adults and toddlers, consider Edgewood Tahoe's Brooks' Bar and Deck. While Edgewood is known for its upscale golf course and lodge, Brooks' Bar and Deck strikes a perfect balance, offering a refined yet comfortable atmosphere that warmly welcomes families. Situated right off the picturesque 18th hole, the expansive deck boasts unparalleled views of Lake Tahoe and the surrounding Sierras – a constantly changing panorama that can keep even the most restless toddler entertained. Their "gastropub" menu features elevated comfort food, with options that are often appealing to a wider range of palates, and the casual-yet-classy ambiance means you won't feel out of place with a high chair and a few kid-friendly snacks. It's a wonderful spot to enjoy a delicious meal while soaking in the iconic Lake Tahoe scenery, creating a special memory for everyone in the family.

California Burger Co.

California Burger Co.

1001 Heavenly Village Way #2b, South Lake Tahoe, CA 96150

Located in Heavenly Village, this outdoor spot was great for toddlers. There was enough fake grass, a fire pit to run trucks over (when the fire was off and not hot), and live music. They also had frozen lemonade so the kids had a drink while Mommy and Daddy also had a fun drink. Wink, wink! The food was good - burgers were great but they didn’t have a kid’s burger, luckily there were chicken tenders and a grilled cheese to choose from.


🍔 See more of our FAVORITE LAKE TAHOE RESTAURANTS - don’t miss the one with my favorite view of the lake!

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Itinerary for 4 days in Lake Tahoe during Spring or Summer

Day 1

5p - Arrive in Reno

5:30p - Pick up rental car

6:30p - Grab Chick-fil-a by airport and drive to Tahoe (about an hour)

7:30p - Check into hotel

8p - Bedtime - Read our favorite story, The Trucks that Saved the Park

Day 2

5:45a wake-up call from excited 1.5 year old, 3.5 year old slept longer

6a walk around the neighborhood grab breakfast - we had free breakfast with our room but there are lots of coffee shops in the area if you need a destination. We also made muffins and brought them with us.

8a - eat breakfast together as a family - Social House was a good recommendation

10a - head to the park on the lake

12p - lunch at Riva Grill

1:30p - naptime

3p - drive over to Kahle Park

5p - drop car off, walk to California Burger Co. outdoor seating, live music

6:30p - walk back to hotel, get ready for bed

7:15p - bedtime

Day 3

6:15a Wake-up call from a happy toddler

7a - Free breakfast at the hotel restaurant

8a - walk over to the shopping center to entertain toddler

10a - 35 min Drive to the waterfall (Glen Alpine Falls)

10:40a - Arrive and explore

11:45a - drive to Kiva picnic area

12:05p - arrive Kiva picnic area, walk down, eat lunch

12:40p - drive back to hotel

1:15p - naptime

3:30p - walk over to Heavenly shopping center - shops, restaurants, mini golf (during summer)

5:45p - dinner

6:30p - walk back to room, get ready for bed

7:30p - bedtime

Day 4

6:20a Wake-up call from toddler

7a - Breakfast at Heaven’s Little Cafe (eat it there or take it to go!)

8a - drive to North Shore’s Tahoe East trail aka Impossible trail

8:40a - Hike Tahoe East trail aka Impossible trail

11:30a - Lunch at Inclined Burgers and Brews - kids menu includes hamburger, cheeseburger, grilled cheese and chicken strips

12:30p - take a drive for a car nap

3p - Arrive at KidZone in Truckee - 11711 Donner Pass Rd, Truckee, CA 96161

5p - Drive back towards the south shore

6p - Dinner at Edgewood’s Brook’s Bar and Deck and enjoy the sunset

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What to pack for Toddlers?!

Shop our Amazon list for our favorite things to pack!

What was in our suitcase? Pretty much everything! Being there mid-May, there was still snow on the mountains so it was mid 60’s during the day but 30’s at night!

For a family of 4 (including 2 toddlers), we packed:

• 3 duffles- we love the Eddie Bauer duffle that compacts into a small bag

  • Duffle #1 - toddlers’ clothes, diapers, shoes, toys, etc.

  • Duffle #2 - My clothes and hub’s clothes

  • Duffle #3 - toddler bumper for bed, you can use pillows but we had free bags we could check. Sometimes we bring the race car blow-up bed

• 2 car seats - infant and toddler

• 2 personal bags (however, mine was toy overflow) - Picasso Magnet Mini tile travel set, Go Dog Go board book, trucks, Pixar Cars bath toys, Reusable Sticker books, and Coloring Books.

• diaper bag

• Insulated Snack bag - filled with PB&J sandwiches, That’s It Bars,

• wagon (instead of our stroller, but we LOVE this travel stroller)

Don’t forget to grab a Crossword Puzzle for nap time! This is my FAVORITE puzzle! Travel terms and countries - what could be better! https://amzn.to/4lVixuR It keeps my mind working and gives me a list of places to add to our bucket list!

See our full list on Amazon.com!

Don’t forget to print these free coloring pages from The Trucks that Saved the Park

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So pack your bags, grab your little adventurers, and get ready for a Lake Tahoe trip that’s anything but ordinary. It’s an adventure waiting to be explored, even with the littlest legs leading the way!

Please note this is not a sponsored post and based on my own personal experience, all thoughts are my own.

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If you liked this post please share it on your favorite social media site using the Share button below because we’d love to get the word out! Feel free to pin this to your favorite Pinterest board:

Things to do in Summer in Lake Tahoe with a Toddler

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Read more about Lake Tahoe in these posts:

Free Kids Event in Thousand Oaks (Fun Activities, Crafts + Giveaways!)

Looking for a fun (and FREE!) thing to do with your kids in Thousand Oaks? 🎉

We’re so excited to be part of a FREE family-friendly kids event hosted by Childhood Matters called the Zones of Wellness: Mental Health Awarness Community Playdate at Conejo Creek North Park—and you’re invited!

Whether you have toddlers, preschoolers, or early elementary kids, this is the perfect way to get outside, enjoy the park, and let your little ones play, create, and explore.

📍 Event Details

Event: ZOW Mental Health Awareness Playdate
Location: Conejo Creek North Park, Thousand Oaks (behind the Library) 1379 E Janss Rd, Thousand Oaks, CA 91362
Date: Saturday, April 25
Time: 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM

ZOW Event Schedule - don’t miss this event in the Conejo Valley!

🎨 What to Expect

This event is packed with fun for kids of all ages:

• Hands-on crafts

• Fun kids activities

• Face Paint

• Magic Show

• Silent Auction

• Outdoor playtime in a beautiful park setting

It’s the kind of easy, no-pressure outing parents love—and kids get SO excited about 💛

🚧 Come Visit Us!

We’ll be there with The Trucks That Saved series, and we would LOVE to meet you in person!

Stop by our booth for:

• Truck-themed fun

• Coloring pages for kids

• A chance to see our books up close

👉 If your kids love trucks, construction vehicles, or anything with wheels—they’re going to LOVE this.

🧃 Make It a Full Family Day

Conejo Creek North Park is such a great spot to spend the day. You can:

• Pack a picnic (we like to sit at the picnic tables to watch the ducks and turtles by the water!)

• Let the kids run around the playgrounds (there are two!)

• Enjoy some fresh air and sunshine ☀️

• Go to the library (it’s our favorite!), grab a new book, and say hi to the fish!

It’s the perfect way to turn a simple event into a full family outing.

🖍️ Free Truck Coloring Pages (Grab Yours!)

Before you go, don’t forget to download your FREE truck coloring pages—perfect for keeping kids entertained at home or on the go.

👉 Download your free printables here

💛 Why We Love Events Like This

As a mom, I’m always looking for:

• Screen-free activities

• Easy weekend plans

• Things that don’t cost a fortune

This event checks all the boxes—and we’re so honored to be part of it.

📌 Save This for Later

Planning your weekend?
Be sure to save this post to Pinterest so you don’t forget!

✨ Final Tip

If you’re local to Thousand Oaks, definitely add this to your weekend plans—it’s one of those easy YES activities that kids remember.

And if you come… come say hi! 👋
We’d love to meet you 💛

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More Family Fun Posts:

🌎 Earth Day with Kids: Simple, Sweet & (Mostly) Mess-Free Ideas

Earth Day is coming up (April 22nd), and if you’re anything like me… you love the idea of doing something meaningful and engaging with your kids—but it also needs to be simple, doable, and not turn your house into a full construction zone! 😅

The good news? Celebrating Earth Day with little ones doesn’t have to be complicated. A few small activities can go a long way—and honestly, kids think it’s all pretty tree-mendous 🌳 (I had to, haha)

GRAB OUR FREE DOWNLOAD: Free Earth Day Activity Pack for Kids 🌿

Here are a few of our favorite easy ways to celebrate Earth Day with kids!

Earth Day is celebrated every year on April 22nd and is all about taking care of our planet. It’s a day to slow down, get outside, and teach kids simple ways to help—like picking up trash, planting something new, or just appreciating nature. Even the smallest actions can make a big difference!

Saving the yard one load at a time 🌱🚧 our tiny clean-up crew reporting for duty

🌱 1. Backyard “Clean-Up Crew” Mission

Turn your kids into an official clean-up crew for the day (bonus points if you bring out toy trucks 👷‍♂️).

Grab:

• A small bucket or bag

• Gloves (or just brave little hands)

• A “mission” mindset

Let them collect sticks, leaves, or any little bits around the yard or park.

👉 You can even say:

“Today we’re helping save the park!”

Suddenly it’s not cleaning… it’s a full-blown adventure. I need to apply this method inside too.

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🌼 2. Plant Something (Anything Counts!)

No garden? No problem.

• Plant flowers in a pot

• Start herbs on a windowsill

• Even tossing seeds in dirt = success

Let your kids water it and check on it each day. It’s a tiny reminder that big things grow from small beginnings 🌿

(Also a great lesson in patience… for all of us 😅)

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A little Earth Day quiet time 🌎🎨 (screen-free and yes… trucks are involved, obviously 🚧💛)

🎨 3. Earth Day Coloring + Activity Time

This is my go-to when I want something calm, screen-free, and actually engaging.

Think:

• Coloring pages

• Mazes

• Simple “look & find” activities

It’s the perfect mix of fun + learning—and a great reset moment in the day.

👉 If your kids love trucks, you already know how this goes…

suddenly the dump truck is helping clean the park and the ice cream truck shows up at the end 🍦 (as it should)

🌿 Free Earth Day Activity Pack for Kids

If you’re looking for a simple way to celebrate Earth Day with your kids (without overcomplicating it 🙃), I put together a free printable Earth Day activity pack that makes it easy and fun.

It includes a mix of screen-free activities that little kids actually enjoy:

• A cute Earth Day coloring page with our favorite truck friends

• A nature scavenger hunt you can take outside

• Easy Earth Day ideas you can do together

These are the kinds of activities we do with our boys — simple, hands-on, and just enough structure to keep them engaged without feeling like “work.”

👉 Perfect for toddlers, preschoolers, and early learners

💛 Why we love this

Earth Day doesn’t have to be a big production to be meaningful.
Even small things — like going on a nature walk, planting something tiny, or picking up a few pieces of trash — help kids start to understand how to care for the world around them.

And honestly… adding a fun printable just makes it feel a little more special ✨

📥 Download your free pack

👉 Grab your free Earth Day Activity Pack here

(Print it at home, bring it outside, or save it for a rainy day — it’s one of those easy wins you’ll come back to every year.)

🌼 Pro tip

If you want to stretch this into a full afternoon activity:

• Do the scavenger hunt first

• Come back and color

• Read The Trucks That Saved the Park together

• Then talk about one small way your family can help the Earth

Simple, meaningful, and zero stress 🤍

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The tiniest Earth Day discovery 🐞🌿 (and suddenly the walk became very important)

🚶‍♀️ 4. Take a “Nature Walk”… But Make It Fun

Instead of just walking, turn it into a game:

Can you find:

• Something green 🌿

• A flower 🌼

• A rock 🪨

• A bug 🐞

Little scavenger hunts = instant engagement.

And if snacks are involved? Even better.

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♻️ 5. Talk About “Helping the Earth” (Kid Version)

My kids love to help and always ask if we can recycle anything we throw away. For our talk, we kept it super simple:

• Throw trash away

• Reuse what you can

• Take care of nature

No big lectures needed—just small, everyday habits. The kids took it to heart, the hardest thing for us now is that our bath tub is full of reusable containers!

We love reading The Trucks That Saved the Park—

it follows Dump Truck, Crane Truck, Excavator, Cement Truck, and their hardworking friends as they come together to rebuild a park for everyone to enjoy.

From clearing debris and planting trees to building safe paths and playground spaces, the trucks show that even the biggest changes start with small acts of helping.

And along the way, they learn something really important— that caring for a community isn’t just about building… it’s about listening, helping, and making space for everyone!

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💛 The Sweetest Part

At the end of the day, Earth Day doesn’t have to be perfect.

If your kids:

• picked up a few sticks

• colored a page (maybe from our Earth Day Activity Pack)

• planted one tiny seed

…you’re doing it right!!

Because raising kind, curious little humans who care about the world around them?

That’s what really matters 🌎

✨ And if you’re looking for an easy, screen-free activity to add to your day, you can find our printable truck activity pack —perfect for quiet time, travel, or just a little break in between adventures.

Pin this for later 📌 so you have a few easy Earth Day ideas ready to go!

Earth Day Activities Kids Love - Easy and low prep

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More fun family posts!

🐣 Best Easter Basket Stuffers for Truck-Loving Kids (2026 Guide)

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Our truck-themed Easter basket this year — mini construction toys, colorful eggs, and a cozy bedtime story we’ll be reading together on Easter night.

If your child sleeps with a dump truck, insists on pointing out every excavator at a construction site, and corrects you when you call a bulldozer a “tractor”… this Easter basket guide is for you.

Instead of loading up on candy that disappears in a day (and leads to the inevitable sugar crash), this list is filled with fun, practical, and creative Easter basket stuffers for truck-loving kids. These are items they’ll actually use long after the chocolate bunny is gone.

Whether you're building an Easter basket for a toddler obsessed with construction vehicles or a preschooler who knows the difference between a crane and a cement mixer, these ideas work for ages 2–8 and fit a variety of budgets.

Let’s build the ultimate truck-themed Easter basket. 🚜🐣

Shop all truck Easter basket finds here → Amazon Easter List

Truck-Shaped Easter Baskets (So Cute & Reusable)

Truck-shaped Easter baskets for toddlers and preschoolers who love construction vehicles.

First things first, If you’re building an Easter basket for a truck-loving kid… why not make the basket itself a truck!?

Instead of a regular basket, we’re using a construction truck plush basket that doubles as part of the gift. It makes Easter morning feel extra themed — and it doesn’t just get packed away after.

What I love about it:

• It becomes toy storage after Easter (we store our Number Blocks and Hot Wheels in similar ones)

• It’s part of pretend play

• It actually gets used year-round

• It instantly makes the whole basket feel cohesive

There’s something so fun about seeing little trucks peeking out of a bigger truck basket.

If you already know your child is truck-obsessed, this is such an easy win.

The other option is to get a big dump truck and fill it up with Easter grass, eggs, and chocolate bunny! We’re adding a small truck toy, a few stickers, and a copy of The Trucks That Saved the Park inside ours this year.

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FREE Easter Truck Activity Page

Looking for a free printable to tuck inside your truck-themed Easter basket?

Download our FREE Easter Truck Activity Page and Easter Basket tags here → Easter Park Download

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Small & Affordable Easter Truck Basket Fillers (Under $15)

These are the little items that make the basket feel full — without blowing your budget.

Small construction truck sets that are perfect for Easter basket stuffers and egg hunt prizes.

1. Mini Construction Vehicle Sets

Why they’re perfect:

• Fit easily in baskets

• Great for sensory bins

• Easy outdoor play

We actually have multiple sets — a few for indoors, one for the bath, and one that lives in our park bag.

Pro tip: Through imaginative play, encourage the trucks to “work” on a construction site and use plastic Easter eggs as boulders. 🥚🚜🚧

This might buy you five whole minutes to run to the bathroom or take a sip of hot coffee. ☕️

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Truck-themed stickers and temporary tattoos are easy, non-candy Easter basket fillers that kids actually get excited about.

2. Construction-Themed Stickers

Perfect for:

• Water bottles

• Sticker collection books

• Easter egg stuffing

Pro tip: Grab a sticker collection book like this one to prevent stickers ending up on walls and furniture! We even color around the stickers to turn it into a full activity.

3. Truck Temporary Tattoos

• Cheap

• Fun

• Zero sugar crash

Need I say more?

Slip a few into plastic eggs and call it a win.

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Truck LEGO & Magnetic Tile Building Sets

Truck-themed LEGO sets and magnetic tile building kits are perfect for little builders who love construction vehicles.

These are played with EVERY. SINGLE. DAY. in our house.

Truck LEGO sets and magnetic tile building kits are the perfect combination of two things they already love: trucks and building.

These are perfect for:

• Rainy spring afternoons

• Quiet time activities

• STEM-style play

• Kids who love to build and rebuild

For younger toddlers, DUPLO-style truck sets are easier to assemble and great for developing fine motor skills. For older kids, construction-themed LEGO sets and magnetic tile building kits add more creativity and problem-solving.

My two-year-old loves building… but I think he actually loves destroying them even more.

I love including something like this in an Easter basket because it stretches the fun beyond Easter morning. Instead of candy that’s gone in a day, you’re giving something they’ll build with again and again.

Pro tip: I’ll help build a base structure and then let their creativity take over… or start dinner. 😉

Things we’ve built recently:

• Dog houses

• Spidey’s hideout

• Jurassic Park

• Costco 🤣

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Bigger “Wow” Easter Basket Add-Ons

This year’s Easter basket: a big yellow dump truck, a few mini construction toys, and a story we’ll be reading together that night.

Tonka-Style Dump Truck

Always a crowd pleaser and trust me, you can never have too many dump trucks.

You can even fill the bed of the truck with Easter grass and hide eggs!

Construction-Themed Clothes, Pajamas, and Socks!

We love wearing trucks any chance we get — and Easter morning is no exception.

A pair of truck pajamas or construction socks adds height to the basket and gets worn immediately.

Practical and exciting? Yes please.

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Easter-themed truck books that make the sweetest non-candy basket additions for little construction lovers.

Best Truck Books for Easter Baskets

If you’re trying to reduce candy and add something meaningful, a book is one of the best Easter basket additions.

Some of our favorites include:

• Popular truck board books

• Interactive lift-the-flap construction books

• And of course, The Trucks That Saved the Park

If your child loves construction vehicles working together, you might also love The Trucks That Saved the Park — a story about teamwork, problem-solving, and helping your community.

Also grab The Trucks that Saved the Park Coloring Book to pair an activity with it.

There’s something extra sweet about ending Easter night with a cozy story after a full day of egg hunts.

The Trucks that Saved the Park, a perfect story book to add to your toddler’s 2026 Spring library.

A construction-themed coloring book for kids who love dump trucks, excavators, and big machines. Based on the story, The Trucks that Saved the Park.

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Non-Candy Easter Basket Fillers That Still Feel Fun

Here are a few other fun truck themed ideas to stuff your Easter baskets with:

• Construction bath bombs

• Truck-shaped crayons

• Construction truck coloring books

• Play-Doh + mini trucks

• Chalk + toy dump truck

• Truck LIGHT UP Bath Toys <— OUR FAVORITE RIGHT NOW!!!

• Take Apart Construction Trucks

Shop all truck Easter basket finds here → Amazon Easter List

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Looking for a fun Easter activity and fun tradition to do with kids?

Try building a Sugar Cookie Easter house! See our Easter Cottage Sugar Cookie House post for a template, recipe, and step-by-step instructions!

Easter Bunny Cottage not made from Gingerbread but with Sugar cookie dough!

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Easter baskets don’t have to be complicated to feel special. A few mini trucks, a fun activity, and a cozy story can turn Easter morning into something kids remember long after the candy is gone.

If you’re planning an Easter basket for a truck-loving kid this year, I hope these ideas help you build something fun and meaningful.

📌 Save this post on Pinterest or share it with a friend so you can find these truck-themed Easter basket ideas again later!

Easter Basket ideas for kids that love trucks

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More Holiday posts:

Easter Sugar Cookie House (Easy Spring Bunny Cottage)

Easter Sugar Cookie House with piped grass, jelly bean eggs, and pastel buttercream details. A fun and easy spring baking project for kids.

Easter Sugar Cookie House (Easy Spring Bunny Cottage!)

If you’ve been around here for a while, you know I will take any excuse to build a sugar cookie house.

🎄 Christmas? Obviously.

💘 Valentine’s Day? Pink doors, yes please.

☘️ St. Patrick’s Day? Leprechaun trap activated.

At this point, building seasonal sugar cookie houses has basically become a tradition in our house — and I love finding new ways to decorate the same simple base.

And now… we have our Easter Bunny Cottage. 🐰💐

This sweet little spring house is decorated with jelly bean eggs, piped buttercream grass (which honestly MAKES the whole thing), tiny egg “tulips,” and a bunny surprise on the back. It’s cheerful, colorful, and surprisingly simple to make.

If you’ve already made one of our houses, this one will feel super easy. And if you haven’t — don’t worry, I’ll link everything you need.

Watch the full step-by-step video below before you start:

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Kathleen’s Sweetest Escapes (@thesweetestescapes)

Watch how this Easter cookie house comes to life step by step

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🐰 Make the Sweetest Easter Basket

If you’re putting together Easter baskets this year, I rounded up all my favorite ideas for truck-loving kids (including my book + coloring book 🤍).

👉 See my Easter Basket Ideas for Truck-Loving Kids here

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Simple pantry staples are all you need for a sugar cookie house — flour, sugar, butter, and a little vanilla magic.

Why I Make a Sugar Cookie House (Instead of Gingerbread)

I’ll be honest — I’m just not a huge fan of gingerbread.

It’s beautiful. It smells festive. But the taste? Not my favorite.

And if you’ve ever built a traditional gingerbread house, you know it can be:

• Hard to cut

• Hard to chew

• And sometimes hard to get kids excited about eating

That’s why I started making sugar cookie houses instead.

They’re:

✔️ Softer
✔️ Sweeter
✔️ Easier to work with
✔️ And honestly more fun to decorate

Plus — my sugar cookie dough does not include eggs, which gives it a sturdier structure than many “no eggs” gingerbread recipes that have been trending lately. My frosting recipe does not have eggs either as I worry about raw eggs in the icing since I actually consume it (after I admire it for a day or 2).

If you’ve searched for:

• no eggs gingerbread house

• gingerbread house alternative

• easy cookie house template

You’re in the right place.

My go-to sugar cookie house template — simple, sturdy, and way easier than gingerbread.

I use the same simple, sturdy template for all of my seasonal houses — Christmas, Valentine’s Day, St. Patrick’s Day, and now Easter.

You can grab the printable template here:

👉 Printable Sugar Cookie House Template

It’s designed to bake flat, assemble easily, and hold up to lots of buttercream and candy.

Why I Love This One

This house feels:

✔️ Bright

✔️ Happy

✔️ Kid-friendly

✔️ Totally customizable

The pastel jelly bean eggs give it that instant Easter vibe. But the real star? The piped buttercream grass.

That little textured border around the base pulls everything together and makes it feel polished — even if your walls aren’t perfectly straight (mine rarely are 😉).

And the back might be my favorite part…

Back view of the Easter sugar cookie house featuring a piped bunny silhouette, buttercream grass, and pastel candy tulips.

The Bunny + Tulip Details 🐰🌷

On the back of the house, I piped a simple white bunny silhouette.

Nothing complicated — just a basic shape. It doesn’t have to be perfect. In fact, a slightly imperfect bunny feels even more charming.

I’ve made enough sugar cookie houses over the years to know that “perfect” isn’t the goal — fun is. None of my houses are flawless, but every single one has been full of creativity (and a lot of buttercream).

Then I added little “tulips” made from tiny egg-shaped candies pressed into piped green stems.

It’s such an easy way to create dimension without complicated piping techniques.

If you can pipe:

• A line

• A blob

• And grass

You’ve got this. If I can make this house, you absolutely can too.

Watch How to Assemble a Sugar Cookie House (Timelapse)

Want to see how it all comes together?

Here’s a quick timelapse of assembling this Easter bunny cottage — from panels to piped grass to jelly bean eggs.

It always amazes me how a few flat cookie pieces turn into a full little spring house.

Watch how to assemble an Easter sugar cookie house step-by-step in this quick timelapse. See how the panels come together, how the buttercream holds everything in place, and how easy it is to decorate.

How to Pipe Grass, Bunnies & Easy Tulips

You don’t need fancy decorating skills for this house — just a few simple piping tricks and the right buttercream consistency.

Once you get the hang of it, decorating is the fun part.

🌱 Piping Buttercream Grass

The grass around the base is what really makes this house feel finished. It hides seams, frames the cottage, and instantly gives it that spring look.

What to use:

• A grass tip (I used the Wilton #233 grass tip or #29)

• Or snip tiny slits into the end of a piping bag

How to pipe it:

• Hold the bag straight up and down if you want the grass to stand upright

• Or hold it slightly sideways and squeeze around the house like I did here

• Squeeze, pull up slightly, release

• Repeat around the base

Short squeezes create fluffy texture. Don’t drag — just squeeze and lift.

That texture instantly makes the house feel complete.

🐰 How to Pipe a Simple Bunny

The bunny on the back looks detailed, but it’s really just a silhouette.

Keep it simple:

• Start with a small oval for the body

• Add a circle for the head

• Two long ears

• A tiny tail

That’s it.

You’re not drawing a realistic rabbit — just a sweet shape. Slightly imperfect actually makes it softer and cuter.

🌷 Easy Candy Tulips

These are my favorite little shortcut.

Instead of piping full flowers, I did this:

• Pipe a small green stem

• Press a tiny egg-shaped candy at the top or you can pipe an egg-shape with frosting

• Done

It’s the easiest “flower” trick ever and adds instant color and dimension.

Need more inspiration? Check out my favorite Sugar Cookie House Pinterest Board for design inspiration!

Buttercream Consistency Tip (Very Important!)

If your icing is too soft, everything will slump.

If it’s too stiff, your hand will hurt.

You want it thick enough to:

• Hold its shape

• Stand up when piped

• Not slide down the walls

When you dip a spoon into your frosting, it should hold a soft peak at the end.

That’s the sweet spot.

A Few Icing Tips I’ve Learned Over the Years

After making more sugar cookie houses than I can count, here are a few small tricks that make decorating easier:

• Save white icing for glue first.
  If you’re making colored frosting, set aside enough white buttercream to assemble your house. You can always turn white icing into another color — but you can’t turn green back into white without making more.

• Use a glass to fill your piping bags.
  After inserting your piping tip, place the bag inside a pint glass and fold the top of the bag over the rim. Spoon your icing in. It keeps everything clean and makes filling so much easier.

Decorating sugar cookie houses should feel fun — not stressful. A little prep goes a long way.

I always decorate the panels first — way easier than trying to pipe on a standing house.

What I Used to Decorate the Easter Cottage

I had a good time shopping the Easter candy aisle for this one! My design developed in my head as I selected my decorations.

• My classic sugar cookie house dough (same recipe from my original post)

• Buttercream icing for decorating

• Jelly bean eggs

• Tiny egg-shaped candies for tulips

• Spring sprinkle mix (optional but fun)

• A grass piping tip (or just snip your piping bag!)

If you need the base recipe + template, start here:

👉 How to Make a Sugar Cookie Gingerbread House (Recipe + Template Included)

👉 Or grab the printable in the shop here:

Printable Gingerbread House Kit

If you’re new to this series, you’ll also love:

• 💕 Valentine’s Day Sugar Cookie House

• 🍀 Leprechaun Trap Sugar Cookie House

• 🎄 Christmas Sugar Cookie House

• 📘 The Sugar Cookie House Guide

They all use the same easy base build.

How to Make It Feel “Easter”

You don’t need special cutters. Just change the decor:

• Pastel colors instead of bold Christmas tones

• Jelly bean eggs instead of gumdrops

• Grass around the base

• A bunny detail on the back

• Tiny candy flowers

That’s it.

Same structure. Totally different vibe.

Tips for Success

1. Let Your Walls Cool Completely

Spring sugar cookie dough can soften quickly. Fully cool walls before assembly.

2. Use Thicker Buttercream for Structure

You want your icing thick enough to hold shape — especially for the roof and grass.

3. Pipe the Grass Last

It’s the finishing touch. Once it goes on, the whole house looks complete.

Spring baking just got a whole lot cuter 🐰🌷

Make It a Family Tradition

I love how this series has evolved.

What started as a Christmas gingerbread alternative has turned into a year-round decorating tradition.

And I honestly think this Easter version might be one of the cutest yet.

It’s sweet without being complicated.

Colorful without being chaotic.

And festive without needing a single gingerbread spice!

If you make one, tag me @thesweetestescapes — I love seeing your houses come to life.

And if you want to build your own, grab the template and start here:

👉 Sugar Cookie House Guide

👉 Printable DIY Template

Spring baking just got a whole lot cuter. 🐣💕

The Trucks That Saved the Park — a colorful, rhyming picture book about teamwork, nature, and building something beautiful together.

NEW CHILDREN’S BOOK - THE TRUCKS THAT SAVED THE PARK

If you’re putting together Easter baskets this year, this little cookie house pairs perfectly with a spring book and a few colorful treats. We’ll actually be celebrating the release of The Trucks That Saved the Park on March 14 — and I can’t think of a sweeter way to welcome spring than books, baking, and a little creativity.

Frequently Asked Questions About Making an Easter Sugar Cookie House

Can I use store-bought cookie dough for a sugar cookie house?

You can, but I recommend a sturdier homemade dough if you want your house to hold up well. Store-bought dough tends to spread more, which can make assembly tricky. If you’re following my template, my sugar cookie house recipe is designed to bake flat and strong.

What kind of icing works best for assembling a cookie house?

Thick buttercream works beautifully for decorating, but you’ll want it sturdy enough to act as “glue.” The icing should hold a soft peak when you lift a spoon — not runny, and not stiff like cement. If it’s too soft, the walls may slide. If it’s too stiff, piping will be difficult.

How do you pipe grass with buttercream?

To pipe buttercream grass, use a grass tip like the Wilton #233 or #29, or snip tiny slits into a piping bag. Hold the bag straight up and down, squeeze gently, pull up slightly, and release. Short squeezes create fluffy texture that looks just like spring grass.

How far in advance can I make a sugar cookie house?

You can bake the panels 1–2 days in advance and store them in an airtight container. Once assembled and decorated, the house will stay fresh for several days at room temperature. Just keep it in a cool, dry place.

Do I need special tools to make an Easter sugar cookie house?

No special tools are required. A piping bag (or even a zip-top bag with the corner snipped), a basic piping tip, and simple Easter candies are all you need. The decorations are what make it feel seasonal — not fancy equipment.

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Love this Easter sugar cookie house?
📌 Don’t forget to pin it so you can come back and build your own bunny cottage later!

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More Sweet Posts:

Leprechaun Trap Sugar Cookie House 🍀

Leprechaun trap sugar cookie house with gold coins, and “Free Gold” front door for St. Patrick’s Day.

A Magical St. Patrick’s Day Treat for Kids

If you’re looking for a fun St. Patrick’s Day tradition that’s equal parts creative, festive, and delicious, this Leprechaun Trap Sugar Cookie House is it. Instead of a paper or shoebox trap, we’re turning a classic sugar cookie house into a playful leprechaun trap—complete with a rainbow path, shiny gold coins, and a tiny front door that’s just too tempting for a mischievous leprechaun to resist.

This is the kind of activity kids talk about all year long… and yes, the leprechaun always escapes. 😉

Why Make a Leprechaun Trap Sugar Cookie House?

Leprechaun traps are a beloved St. Patrick’s Day tradition in classrooms and homes, but most are made from cardboard or paper. Turning the idea into a fully edible sugar cookie house makes it feel extra special—and gives kids something they can help decorate and eat.

This sugar cookie trap works for:

• A St. Patrick’s Day family activity

• A festive dessert centerpiece

• A classroom-inspired tradition at home

• Kids who love holiday cookie houses (even outside of Christmas!)

If you already love making sugar cookie houses for the holidays, this Leprechaun Trap Sugar Cookie House is the perfect St. Patrick’s Day twist. It uses the same easy sugar cookie dough, simple assembly, and kid-friendly approach—but adds a playful purpose: catching a sneaky leprechaun!

Instead of cardboard or shoebox traps, this one is fully edible, totally festive, and becomes part of a tradition kids will remember year after year.

Start With a Sugar Cookie House (No Gingerbread Required)

If you’re new to cookie houses or want a refresher, you don’t need to reinvent anything here. This leprechaun trap uses the same base method I use for all of my sugar cookie houses.

👉 Start here: How to Make a Sugar Cookie Gingerbread House (Recipe & Template Included)

That post walks you through:

• My tried-and-true sugar cookie dough (sturdy, no spreading)

• Baking and cutting the panels

• Assembly using buttercream icing

• Tips to prevent cracking or collapsing

You can also grab the printable gingerbread house kit if you want to skip measuring entirely.

And if you’d rather download everything instantly, the full template is available in my shop here.

👉 https://www.thesweetestescapes.com/shop/gingerbread-house

How to Turn a Sugar Cookie House Into a Leprechaun Trap

The key is giving the house a purpose—you’re not just decorating, you’re trying to lure a leprechaun inside.

I was inspired by so many ideas on Pinterest, see my St. Patrick’s Day Leprechaun Trap Board

Here are the three must-have elements that make this work:

🍯 A Little Front Door with a “Free Gold” Sign

Every good trap needs bait—and leprechauns can’t resist gold.

Add a tiny cookie or fondant door to the front of your house and hang a playful “Free Gold” sign above it. This instantly tells the story and makes the house feel intentional instead of just decorative.

Tips:

• Write the sign with edible marker or royal icing

• Keep it slightly crooked for a mischievous look

• Add green frosting details around the door for a magical touch

This one detail alone transforms your cookie house into a true leprechaun trap.

This idea works beautifully if you’ve made other themed houses before—similar to how I style doors and details in my Valentine’s Day Sugar Cookie House

Same concept, different holiday magic.

🌈 A Rainbow Path Leading Inside

What’s more tempting than gold? A rainbow that leads straight to it.

Create a rainbow “path” that guides the leprechaun right to the front door:

• Use rainbow candies, sprinkles, or icing stripes

• Start the rainbow at the edge of the base and curve it toward the door

• Make it feel like the leprechaun can’t miss where to go

This is also one of the most kid-friendly parts—little hands LOVE placing the rainbow colors.

This is very similar to the playful, kid-friendly decorating style I share in my Sugar Cookie House Guide, which is perfect if kids are helping.

Sugar cookie house front door with a “Free Gold” sign for a leprechaun trap.

🪙 Gold Coins as Bait

This is the finishing touch that sells the entire idea.

Scatter chocolate gold coins along the rainbow path and pile a few right by the door as the ultimate temptation. You can even leave a few inside the house so it looks like the leprechaun almost fell for it.

Optional fun:

• Leave one coin tipped over like it was dropped

• Add green sprinkles or sanding sugar to make it sparkle

• Pretend the leprechaun stole some overnight

Carefully cutting the front door with a sharp steak knife into the sugar cookie panel before baking to create the leprechaun trap entrance.

Make It Interactive (and Extra Magical)

Just like with Christmas and Valentine’s Day cookie houses, the best part of a leprechaun trap isn’t building it—it’s the magic that happens after.

The next morning, kids can:

• Check to see if the gold is gone

• Look for tiny “leprechaun footprints” made from green sugar

• Discover a note from the leprechaun thanking them for the gold

It’s the same kind of imaginative storytelling that makes holiday cookie houses so special—just with a St. Patrick’s Day spin.

How to Build the Base Sugar Cookie House

This Leprechaun Trap Sugar Cookie House starts the same way all of my holiday cookie houses do—with easy sugar cookie dough, simple assembly, and no gingerbread required.

Rolling out sugar cookie dough using my printable house template before baking and assembling the leprechaun trap house.

If you’ve never made a sugar cookie house before, don’t worry. This method is sturdy, beginner-friendly, and perfect for decorating with kids.

👉 For the full recipe, exact measurements, baking times, and printable templates, start with my complete guide here:

How to Make a Sugar Cookie Gingerbread House (Recipe & Template Included)

👉 You can also grab the printable kit instantly from my shop if you want everything ready to go:

https://www.thesweetestescapes.com/shop/gingerbread-house

Baked sugar cookie house panels ready to assemble before turning this into a festive leprechaun trap.

Condensed Build Steps

1. Make the sugar cookie dough
   Use a no-spread sugar cookie dough designed for building houses. Chill the dough before rolling so the panels keep their shape.

2. Cut and bake the panels
   Roll the dough evenly and cut the house pieces using my printable template. Bake until just set—firm but not browned.

3. Let cookies cool completely
   This is important. Warm cookies are more likely to crack or slide during assembly.

4. Assemble the house
   Pipe buttercream icing along the edges to attach the walls, then add the roof. Let the structure set before decorating.

See the full sugar cookie house come together in this quick timelapse before we turn it into a leprechaun trap.

Watch this sugar cookie house come together in a quick timelapse before transforming it into a festive leprechaun trap for St. Patrick’s Day. Built with sturdy sugar cookie panels and buttercream icing, this easy holiday project is perfect for decorating with kids.

If you want more kid-friendly design ideas and holiday variations, my Sugar Cookie House Guide is a great next step.

Buttercream Icing for Assembly & Decorating

Buttercream icing is what holds everything together and makes decorating fun. It’s easier to work with than royal icing and sets up well for sugar cookie houses.

How I Use Buttercream:

• Thicker consistency for assembling walls and roof

• Slightly softer consistency for piping details and decorations

Tips:

• Use a large round piping tip or cut a small hole in a piping bag

• Let the assembled house sit for 15–20 minutes before adding heavy decorations

• If the icing feels too soft, chill it briefly before using

Once the base house is built, you’re ready for the fun part—turning it into a leprechaun trap with a rainbow path, gold coin bait, and a tiny “Free Gold” front door 🍀

The finished leprechaun trap sugar cookie house decorated with shamrocks, green buttercream, and festive St. Patrick’s Day details.

A New St. Patrick’s Day Tradition Worth Repeating

This Leprechaun Trap Sugar Cookie House is proof that cookie houses aren’t just for Christmas. It’s festive, playful, and just the right amount of silly—perfect for celebrating St. Patrick’s Day with kids.

Whether you make it once or turn it into a yearly tradition, it’s guaranteed to bring a little extra magic (and sugar) to March. 🍀💚

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If you make this leprechaun trap sugar cookie house, I’d love to see it! Save this idea to Pinterest so you can find it next March, and don’t forget to tag @TheSweetestEscapes if you share your creation on social media. 💚🍀

An easy St. Patrick’s Day leprechaun trap made from a sugar cookie house, complete with shamrock details and a playful “Free Gold” door.

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More Holiday Posts:

Where to Stay, Sip, and Savor in California’s Wine Country

Cave Tour at Beringer Vineyards

The Ultimate Napa Valley Travel Guide

Where to Stay, Sip, and Savor in California’s Most Iconic Wine Region

Napa Valley is one of those places that somehow lives up to the hype—and then exceeds it. Rolling vineyards, golden hills, architecturally stunning wineries, unforgettable meals, and that unmistakable feeling that time slows down the moment you arrive (especially when you go without the kids).

Whether you’re planning your very first wine country getaway, returning for a cozy Cabernet-season escape, or building the perfect girls’ trip or romantic weekend, this guide pulls together everything you need to plan a Napa Valley trip—from where to stay and sip to what to wear and when to go.

This is your starting point. From here, I’ll link you to detailed hotel reviews, winery guides, itineraries, and packing lists to help you plan the perfect trip! Cheers! 🥂

Jump to:

• Best Time to Visit Napa Valley
• Best Wineries in Napa Valley
• Where to Stay in Napa
• What to Pack for Napa
• Napa Travel Tips

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🗺️ Where Is Napa Valley & How to Get There

Napa Valley is located in Northern California, about one hour north of San Francisco. The valley stretches roughly 30 miles from the city of Napa in the south to Calistoga in the north, with charming towns like Yountville and St. Helenain between.

Getting there:

• Fly into: San Francisco (SFO), Oakland (OAK), or Sacramento (SMF)

• Drive time:

  • San Francisco → Napa: ~1–1.5 hours

  • Sonoma County → Napa: ~45 minutes

Once you’re there, having a car is helpful—though if wine tasting is the main event, booking a driver or joining curated tastings can make the experience far more relaxing.

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Best time of year to visit Napa is December! You must see the St Helena Downtown Christmas Display

Best Time to Visit Napa Valley

There truly isn’t a bad time to visit Napa, but each season has its own personality.

Spring (March–May)

Fresh, green vineyards, wildflowers, and fewer crowds make spring a beautiful and underrated time to visit.

Summer (June–August)

Long days, warm weather, and peak vineyard views—but also the busiest and most expensive season.

Fall (September–October)

Harvest season is buzzing, golden, and magical. Expect lively wineries and higher prices.

Winter (November–February)

Often called Cabernet Season, winter in Napa is cozy, romantic, and surprisingly luxurious—think fireplaces, mustard blooms, and misty mornings with fewer tourists. It’s my personal favorite!

👉 For a festive winter escape, see:
A Curated Christmas in Napa: A Luxury 3-Day Guide to St. Helena & Yountville

Don’t miss relaxing with a cup of coffee in a tub on the Alila guest room balcony by the fire pit!

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🍷 Best Wineries in Napa Valley (By Experience)

With hundreds of wineries, Napa can feel overwhelming—so instead of listing them all, here’s how to think about choosing the right ones for your trip.

Scenic & Elevated Experiences

If sweeping views and bold reds are your thing, wineries tucked into the hills deliver some of Napa’s most memorable tastings.

👉 Winery Review: Chappellet Winery
Perched atop Pritchard Hill, Chappellet combines breathtaking views with some of the best Cabernet Sauvignon in the valley.

Hidden Gems & Instagram-Worthy Stops

Some of Napa’s most charming wineries fly under the radar—with stunning grounds, intimate tastings, and beautiful backdrops.

👉 7 Best Kept Secret Wineries in Napa Valley
A curated list of beautiful and some lesser-known wineries that are as photogenic as they are delicious.

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Scribe Winery

Don’t Skip Sonoma County (Right Next Door)

While Napa often steals the spotlight, Sonoma County offers a more laid-back, equally beautiful wine-tasting experience—often with more generous pours and fewer crowds.

👉 Best Wineries to Visit in Sonoma County
👉 Winery Review: Scribe Winery – a must-visit for its food-forward tastings and vineyard views

Sonoma is an excellent option if you’re looking to balance your trip or extend your stay beyond Napa.

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Napa & Sonoma Wine Tasting Weekend Itinerary

If you’re visiting for the weekend and want a little bit of everything—wine, great food, charming towns—this itinerary is a great place to start.

👉 Wine Tasting Weekend Itinerary in Napa & Sonoma
This guide breaks down where to stay, which wineries to prioritize, and how to pace your tastings so you actually enjoy them.

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Cabernet House at Old World Inn - great bed and breakfast in Napa Valley

Where to Stay in Napa Valley

Where you stay can completely shape your Napa experience. These are some of my favorite options, depending on your style and budget.

Boutique & Walkable

👉 Cabernet House at Old World Inn
Affordable, charming, and centrally located—perfect if you want to walk to restaurants and tasting rooms.

👉 Andaz Napa
A stylish boutique hotel right in downtown Napa with spacious rooms and an unbeatable location.

Andaz Napa with a giant tub near the window - relaxation at it’s finest!

Nearby Alternatives

👉 Hyatt Regency Sonoma County
Located in Santa Rosa, this is a great home base if you’re splitting time between Napa and Sonoma. Sometimes we stay here for a night, then move to another hotel closer to Napa.

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What to Wear & Pack for Napa Valley

Napa style is all about effortless chic—comfortable enough for tastings, polished enough for long lunches and winery patios.

👉 Napa Packing Checklist (Free Download)
Everything you need for a Napa weekend, any season of the year—plus outfit ideas and wine-country essentials.

👉 Chilly Chic & Cabernet Ready: Napa Winter Packing List
From mustard season layers to cozy wine-tasting looks, this guide covers how to dress for Napa in winter without sacrificing style.

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Korbel Winery

Helpful Napa Valley Travel Tips

• Make tasting reservations in advance—especially on weekends

• Plan 2–3 wineries per day max

• Balance structured tastings with casual stops

• Eat a solid breakfast (trust me)

• Stay hydrated and pace yourself

Is Napa Valley Worth Visiting?

Absolutely—but it’s especially perfect if you love:

• Wine and food experiences

• Beautiful scenery

• Slower, intentional travel

• Boutique hotels and curated luxury

If you prefer something more casual or spontaneous, Sonoma may be a better fit—but for a polished, iconic wine country escape, Napa Valley is hard to beat.

Ready to Plan Your Napa Trip?

Start with the guides linked above, and build your trip from there. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or returning for another unforgettable stay, Napa always finds a way to surprise you.

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More Napa posts, please!

Printable Gingerbread House Kit (DIY Template for Kids)

Guessing dimensions without a Printable Gingerbread House Kit

Creating a gingerbread house is one of the most magical holiday traditions—but baking, cutting, and assembling can feel overwhelming, especially with kids. This printable gingerbread house kit makes it simple to enjoy the fun without the stress.

Designed for families, classrooms, and holiday parties, this DIY kit gives you everything you need to build a festive gingerbread house using easy-to-follow templates and instructions.

👉 Get the Printable Gingerbread House Kit
Instant digital download – perfect for kids and families

What Is a Printable Gingerbread House Kit?

A printable gingerbread house kit is a digital download that includes pre-sized templates and instructions you can print at home. Instead of guessing measurements or struggling with fragile baked pieces, you’ll have a clear plan that makes assembling a gingerbread house much easier—especially with kids helping.

This kit works whether you:

• Bake your own gingerbread

• Use graham crackers

• Want a practice run before making an edible version

What’s Included in the Gingerbread House Kit

✔ Printable gingerbread house templates (PDF)
✔ Step-by-step building instructions
✔ Decorating ideas that work for kids
✔ Tips to help prevent cracking and collapsing
✔ Instant digital download (no waiting!)

👉 Download the Gingerbread House Kit Here

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Why Families Love This Gingerbread House Kit

Why Families Love This Gingerbread House Kit

• Kid-friendly: Simple shapes and clear instructions

• Low stress: No guesswork or complicated measuring

• Reusable: Print and use year after year

• Flexible: Works with gingerbread, graham crackers, or cardboard

This makes it a great option for:

• Christmas Eve traditions

• Holiday baking with kids

• Classroom or homeschool activities

• Family holiday parties

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How to Use the Printable Gingerbread House Kit

1. Download and print the templates on standard 8.5×11 paper

2. Cut out the template pieces

3. Roll dough and using your template pieces, cut around dough creating panels (roof, side, front, and back)

4. Bake your house panels

5. Decorate with your favorite sprinkles or treats

6. Assemble using royal icing or buttercream frosting

7. Display and enjoy!

The instructions are written so kids can follow along with adult help.

Gingerbread House vs. Sugar Cookie House

If you love decorating but want an easier edible option, you might also enjoy making a sugar cookie house instead of a gingerbread house.

👉 See our Sugar Cookie House Tutorial for Kids
(Perfect if you want softer cookies and less breakage)

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is this a physical gingerbread house kit?

No. This is a digital download that you print at home. Ingredients and candy are not included.

Is this gingerbread house kit good for kids?

Yes! It’s designed to be kid-friendly and works best with adult supervision.

What paper size should I use?

Standard US Letter (8.5×11). No special printer needed.

Can I reuse this kit every year?

Yes. Once purchased, you can print and reuse it for personal use.

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Make Gingerbread Houses a Holiday Tradition

Creating a gingerbread house doesn’t have to be complicated to be special. With this printable gingerbread house kit, you can skip the stress and focus on what matters most—making memories, laughing through the decorating mess, and starting a holiday tradition your family will look forward to year after year. Whether you’re baking with kids, hosting a classroom activity, or planning a cozy Christmas afternoon at home, this easy DIY kit helps turn a simple idea into a meaningful experience.

This printable gingerbread house kit takes the pressure out of holiday baking and lets you focus on what matters—making memories together.

👉 Get the Printable Gingerbread House Kit – Instant Download

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More Baking Posts:

Sugar Cookie House Guide (Easy, No Gingerbread Required!)

Valentine Sugar Cookie House

How to Make a Sugar Cookie House without Gingerbread- Easy and Kid-Friendly

If you love making gingerbread houses like I do, but don’t love gingerbread, this sugar cookie house guide is for you! A sugar cookie house is a fun, festive alternative that works for Christmas, Valentine’s Day, and beyond—with soft cookies, easy dough, and decorations your whole family will actually enjoy eating.

Whether you’re building a classic holiday house or a pink-and-pastel Valentine’s Day version, this guide walks you through everything you need to know, with links to step-by-step seasonal tutorials.

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Sugar Cookie House with Trucks Design

Why Make a Sugar Cookie House Instead of Gingerbread?

Sugar cookie houses are easier, tastier, and more kid-friendly than traditional gingerbread houses.

And look — there is absolutely nothing wrong with classic gingerbread. It smells festive and looks beautiful. I’m just not the biggest fan of eating it!

Over the years, I started experimenting with a sugar cookie house as a gingerbread alternative — and I honestly haven’t looked back.

If you’ve ever searched for:

• gingerbread house alternative

• easy gingerbread house ideas

• best gingerbread house glue

• no eggs gingerbread house

You might actually be looking for something simpler.

That’s where sugar cookies shine.

Why families love a sugar cookie house:

✔️ Softer cookies that are actually edible (YUM 😋)
✔️ No molasses or heavy spices required — just pantry staples
✔️ Easier dough to roll and bake evenly
✔️ Sturdier structure with buttercream “glue”
✔️ Works for multiple holidays — not just Christmas

If you’ve ever struggled with rock-hard gingerbread, broken walls, or icing that won’t hold, sugar cookies are a total game changer.

I use the same simple template and base dough for Christmas, Valentine’s Day, St. Patrick’s Day, Easter, and beyond. Once you learn the method, you can decorate it any way you want.

It’s less stress.
More creativity.
And way more fun to eat..

Shop my list - These are the tools I use when building my sugar cookie houses.

These are the baking tools I use every time I make a sugar cookie house—from mixing the dough to piping the final details.

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What Is a Sugar Cookie House?

A sugar cookie house is built using sturdy sugar cookie panels instead of gingerbread. The cookies are baked slightly thicker to hold their shape, then assembled with frosting and decorated based on the season.

You can customize:

• Roof style

• Door and window shapes

• Icing colors

• Holiday-specific candy decorations

Check out my favorite Sugar Cookie Houses Pinterest board for design ideas!

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Sugar Cookie Dough with Sprinkles

Sugar Cookie House Dough Basics

A good sugar cookie house dough should be:

• Firm but not dry

• Rolled evenly

• Baked until set (not browned)

💡 Tip: Chill the dough before cutting shapes to prevent spreading.

You’ll find exact measurements and baking times inside each seasonal tutorial below.

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How to Assemble a Sugar Cookie House - Step by Step! Use containers to support the cookie walls while assembling

How to Assemble a Sugar Cookie House

Assembly is the same no matter the holiday.

Basic steps:

1. Bake and cool cookie panels completely

2. Decorate all pieces and refrigerate for 15 mins at least to let the frosting set

3. Pipe thick frosting along edges

4. Assemble walls first and let set

5. Add roof panels

You can use buttercream frosting (yes, really!) or royal icing depending on your preference.

See our Valentine’s Day post for more info about Buttercream Frosting do’s and don’t’s.

See the full sugar cookie house come together in this quick timelapse before we turn it into a leprechaun trap.

A quick timelapse of assembling the sugar cookie house before decorating it as a St. Patrick’s Day leprechaun trap.

Free Sugar Cookie House Template (Printable)

To make building a sugar cookie house even easier, we created a free printable sugar cookie house template you can use to cut consistent wall and roof pieces every time. This template works perfectly for sugar cookie dough and can be reused for different holidays and designs.

👉 Download the free sugar cookie house template here:
https://www.thesweetestescapes.com/shop/gingerbread-house

This template works for Christmas sugar cookie houses, Valentine’s Day houses, and any themed sugar cookie build.

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Sugar Cookie House Design Ideas - Side walls and back

Sugar Cookie House Design Ideas and Gingerbread Accessories

One of the best things about a sugar cookie house is how easy it is to customize for different holidays, themes, and skill levels. Whether you’re decorating with toddlers or creating a show-stopping centerpiece, these ideas work beautifully with sugar cookie dough.

Popular sugar cookie house designs and Gingerbread accessories include:

• Classic house with piped frosting and sprinkles

• Minimalist house with simple lines and powdered sugar

• Candy-covered house for kids who love decorating

• Pastel or themed houses for holidays like Valentine’s Day or Easter

💖 Lace-Inspired (Perfect for Valentine’s Day)

• Uses piped icing to mimic lace patterns

• Great for Valentine’s, weddings, baby showers

• Elegant look without extra baking steps

👉 For step-by-step decorating and recipes, explore our seasonal sugar cookie house tutorials below.

Save these sugar cookie house design ideas on Pinterest so you can come back when it’s time to bake.

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How to Make a Sugar Cookie House for Christmas, Easter, Valentine’s Day, or St. Patrick’s Day

Making a sugar cookie house for Christmas, Easter, Valentine’s Day or St. Patrick’s Day is simple when you use the same base template and decorate it for the season.

Christmas Sugar Cookie House Design - Cat in window

🎄 Christmas Sugar Cookie House

A Christmas sugar cookie house is perfect for family traditions and holiday parties. Think snowy roofs, festive sprinkles, and classic Christmas candy. And maybe a cat in a window? Why not?!

👉 Read the full tutorial here: Christmas Sugar Cookie House (Easy & Kid-Friendly)

Popular Christmas decorations:

• Mini gumdrops

• Peppermints

• White frosting “snow”

• Holiday sprinkles

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Valentine’s Day Sugar Cookie House with Lace Icing Details for Sugar Cookie Houses

💕 Valentine’s Day Sugar Cookie House

A Valentine’s Day sugar cookie house is a sweet winter activity that doesn’t feel like Christmas leftovers. Pink frosting, heart cookies, and pastel candy make this a fun February tradition. When you think there’s too much pink just add more! Never enough pink in my book.

👉 Read the full tutorial here:

Valentine’s Day Sugar Cookie House (No Gingerbread Required)

Valentine decorating ideas:

1. Conversation hearts

2. Pink and red icing

3. Heart-shaped cookies

4. Sprinkles and sanding sugar

💖 Lace-Inspired (Perfect for Valentine’s Day)

• Uses piped icing to mimic lace patterns

• Great for Valentine’s, weddings, baby showers

• Elegant look without extra baking steps

St. Patrick’s Day Leprechaun Trap Sugar Cookie House

🍀 St. Patrick’s Day Leprechaun Trap

Turn your cookie house into an edible leprechaun trap!

Decorating ideas:

• Rainbow path

• “Free Gold” door

• Gold coin bait.

See the full St. Patrick’s Day tutorial here.

🐰 Easter Sugar Cookie House Ideas

Spring is the perfect time to build a sugar cookie house. Instead of traditional gingerbread, decorate your cottage with:

• Piped buttercream grass

• Jelly bean eggs

• Pastel icing details

• A simple bunny silhouette

• Tiny candy “tulips”

The same base template works beautifully for Easter — just swap the decorations for soft spring colors and playful details.

👉 See the full Easter Sugar Cookie House tutorial here.

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Best Frosting for Sugar Cookie Houses

You have two great options:

Buttercream Frosting

• Tastes better

• Easy to make

• Great for decorating with kids

• No raw eggs

Royal Icing

• Dries hard

• Best for advanced builders

• Less forgiving (and less tasty)

👉 Tip: For family builds, buttercream works surprisingly well when cookies are fully cooled.

My Favorite gingerbread house icing without eggs can be found on our Sugar Cookie Recipe Post

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Kids Sugar Cookie Houses

Making Sugar Cookie Houses with Kids

Sugar cookie houses are much more forgiving for toddlers and young kids.

Kid-friendly tips:

• Pre-bake all pieces

• Let adults assemble the structure

• Kids decorate once stable

• Use squeeze bottles or zip-top bags for frosting

This makes it a fun, low-stress activity instead of a meltdown waiting to happen.

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Snoopy Dog House Design - Sugar Cookie House

Snoopy Dog house Sugar Cookie House

Fun Themed Sugar Cookie Houses for Kids

If your kids love themed projects, a cartoon-inspired dog house sugar cookie house is a huge hit. We made a black-and-white dog house design that kids immediately recognized and loved decorating. It’s a great alternative to a traditional house and perfect for little hands that just want to frost, sprinkle, and have fun.

👉 This is a fun example of how sugar cookie houses don’t have to look like houses at all.

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Sugar Cookie House and Truck - no gingerbread

Creative Sugar Cookie Builds for Kids

Sugar cookie houses don’t have to look like houses at all. One of our favorite kid-friendly builds was a sugar cookie truck, which was just as fun to decorate and even easier for little hands to work on. Flat shapes, bold outlines, and simple details make vehicle-style cookie builds a great option for younger kids who want to jump straight into decorating.

👉 This is a great example of how sugar cookie dough can be used for creative, kid-approved designs beyond traditional houses.

Also, add The Trucks that Saved Christmas to your collection!

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Sugar Cookie Prep Station

Can You Make Sugar Cookie Houses Ahead of Time?

Yes, in fact I HIGHLY recommend making the dough ahead of time.

• Cookies: Bake 2–3 days ahead

• Frosting: Make 1–2 days ahead and refrigerate

• Assembly: Same day is best

Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature.

More Sugar Cookie House Ideas Coming Soon!

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Chocolate gold coins placed outside a sugar cookie house leprechaun trap for St. Patrick’s Day.

Final Thoughts: The Best Sugar Cookie House for Any Season

A sugar cookie house is a fun, flexible tradition that doesn’t have to be limited to Christmas. With simple ingredients and endless decorating options, it’s an activity your family can enjoy all year long.

Start with one season—or build them all.

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More baking posts:

15 Best Restaurants in Maui With Amazing Views (By Area + Map) 2026 Update

Sheraton Maui Entrance

15 Best Restaurants in Maui, Hawaii with great views(Local Favorites & Must-Try Spots) Map included for 2026

UPDATED: January 9, 2026

Maui isn’t just a paradise for surfers and sunset chasers — it’s a dream destination for food lovers, too. From casual beach-side breakfasts to elegant dinners with ocean views, this island’s dining scene is as diverse and delicious as its landscapes. Whether you’re craving fresh seafood plucked straight from Hawaiian waters, local twists on classic comfort food, or unforgettable fine dining experiences, Maui delivers unforgettable meals that are every bit as memorable as its beaches and sunsets. After years of visiting and eating our way around the island, we’ve rounded up the 15 best restaurants in Maui — the spots we always return to and that we think you’ll love too.

We’ve been to Maui every year since 2013, so we know a thing or two about the island. We try and find new restaurants but we have a handful that we keep going back to! Here is a great list of where to eat in Maui, Hawaii! See some of the best restaurants on the island, sorted by area, and noted by price.

There are a few restaurants that were lost due to the 2023 Maui fire but I’m going to keep them on this list in hopes they open a new location. I have made a note if their current status as of January 9, 2026.

Related Posts:How to Spend 4 Days in Maui - Complete Itinerary

Here is a map of the best restaurants in Maui made with the Wanderlog Travel Planner, so you can follow along, add to your Google Maps account, or create your own personal map! Wanderlog allows you to create great maps and guides for any vacation! 

Map courtesy of Wanderlog travel planner

 See our list of what to pack for your next Maui vacay here: Hawaii Packing Essentials

Where to Eat in Maui by Area

Trying to decide where to eat in Maui? Here’s a quick guide to the best Maui restaurants by area, whether you’re staying in Wailea, Kaanapali, or near Lahaina.

Best Restaurants in Wailea

Wailea is a great choice if you’re looking for a more upscale, relaxing dining experience in Maui. This area is known for beautiful resorts, ocean views, and restaurants that are perfect for a special dinner, date night, or a slower-paced vacation evening. If you’re staying in South Maui, this is one of the easiest areas to find a memorable meal.

Some of our favorite Wailea restaurants on this list include Monkeypod Kitchen, Lineage, Spago, and Ferraro’s Bare Ristorante.

Best Restaurants in Kaanapali

Kaanapali is one of the most convenient areas to stay in Maui, especially for families. There are plenty of restaurants nearby, easy resort access, and a mix of casual spots and nicer sit-down options. If you want great food without driving all over the island, Kaanapali is a really easy home base.

Some of our favorite Kaanapali restaurants on this list include Maui Brew Co, Hula Grill, and Barefoot Bar.

Best Restaurants Near Lahaina and Where to Eat in West Maui

If you’re exploring West Maui, there are still great places to eat in the Lahaina area and nearby communities. This part of the island has long been known for some of Maui’s most popular dining spots, and it’s worth checking what’s currently open as you plan your trip. This area can be a good fit if you want dining options with character, scenery, and convenient access from West Maui.

Some of our favorite restaurants near Lahaina include Merriman’s in Kapalua, Star Noodle, Aloha Mixed Plate.

Jump to Restaurants in Maui

• Kahului Restaurants
• Kaanapali and Kapalua Restaurants
• Wailea Restaurants
• Paia Restaurants
• BONUS: MAUI COFFEE AND ICE CREAM SUGGESTIONS!

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Where to Eat in Kahului, Maui (Near airport)

Kahului is often seen as a quick stop for the airport or shopping, but it’s also home to some of Maui’s best local food spots. From casual counter-service restaurants to longtime local favorites, Kahului is where you’ll find authentic flavors, generous portions, and some of the island’s best value meals. If you’re looking to eat like a local—or want a great meal without the resort prices—Kahului is well worth a stop.

Tin Roof Maui ($)

Location: 360 PAPA PLACE STE Y, KAHULUI, HI, 96732

Closed on Sundays and Mondays!

When landing in Maui, hunger hits. You've been on a plane forever. Pick up your rental car and drive 5 mins to Tin Roof! It's not a sit-down service restaurant (no liquor license) but excellent Hawaiian cuisine. 

Per their website: TIN ROOF is a new generation mom & pop shop, owned by Internationally recognized Chef Sheldon Simeon & his wife, Janice. Raised in Hilo, Hawaii rain is a part of everyday life. Farmers markets keep buzzing, errands roll along, and garage kani ka pila never ends.

I loved their steak bowl - chopped flat iron steak wok-fried with garlic & scallion bottoms & topped off with ginger scallion pesto, served over rice & with a side of our daily banchan. Josh ordered the Sheldon Stay Hungry Special with pork belly and garlic noodles. It was the perfect quick meal after our long flight. 

Don’t skip out on dessert! Try the Chocolate Birthday Bibingka Cake 🌈💗🎂 filled with ube, chocolate, peanut butter, sprinkles, and pop rocks!

There isn’t a place to sit, so pick it up and take it to enjoy on the beach!

• 🍽 Best for: Lunch or Dinner

• 🕒 Best time to go: Happy Hour

• 👶 Kid-friendly? Yes

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10 Best Restaurants Near Kaanapali, Lahaina, and Kapalua (North West Shore)

The North West Shore of Maui—home to Kaanapali, Lahaina, and Kapalua—offers some of the island’s most scenic and memorable dining experiences. From oceanfront restaurants perfect for sunset dinners to casual spots ideal for families staying near the resorts, this area is packed with must-try places to eat. Whether you’re visiting for a weeklong vacation or just looking for a great meal near your hotel, these are the best restaurants on Maui’s North West Shore worth adding to your itinerary.

We love to stay at Sheraton Maui Resort and Spa on Kaanapali beach! See our review here: Hotel Review: Sheraton Maui Resort and Spa

Monkeypod Kitchen ($$$)

Wailea Location: 10 Wailea Gateway Place B-201, Kihei, HI 96753

Kaanapali Location: 2435 Kaanapali Pkwy, Bldg I-1, Lahaina, HI 96761

See our full review: Best Restaurant in Maui: Monkeypod Kitchen

We first discovered Monkeypod in Wailea and were overjoyed when they opened a second location in Whalers Village, Kaanapali! We’ve found that it is the perfect spot for drinks and dinner. Get a Monkeypod Mai Tai with their fabulous honey foam! Loved the Bulgogi Pork Tacos - handcrafted kimchee, jalapeño, asian pear, sriracha aioli, locally-made corn tortilla. Jalapeño mashed potatoes ARE A MUST. They are green, but don’t let that scare you!

Dessert is a must here, we loved the rich Chocolate Cream Pie but they have other cream pies such as Banana available as well. Make a reservation in advance, we used Opentable (they might not be taking reservations at this time, but always triple check!).

Monkeypod is great for kids! They offer FREE butter noodles.

Best time to go to Monkeypod is Happy Hour to enjoy a discount on appetizers, pizzas, beers, and (my fave) Mai Tais!

See our full review here: Monkeypod Kitchen Restaurant

• 🍽 Best for: Lunch or Dinner

• 🕒 Best time to go: Happy Hour

• 👶 Kid-friendly? Yes

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Hula Grill & Barefoot Bar ($$$/$$)

Whalers Village, 2435 Kaanapali Pkwy, Lahaina, HI 96761

Located in Whalers Village with outstanding ocean views, these two restaurants, Hula Grill and Barefoot Bar are not only owned by the same company, they are connected to each other. 

Hula Grill is a little more pricey with delicious traditional Hawaiian entrees including many fish dishes (crab, snapper, shrimp) and land dishes (chicken, steak, short rib, emu).

Barefoot bar is more casual ($$) serving burgers, fish and chips, pizza. The fun part about the bar, your feet are in the sand. Usually, they have live music and entertainment. 

Regardless of which restaurant you try, I love their Mai Tai's which are served in tiki glasses topped with the umbrella! Also, you MUST try the Hula pie! It’s vanilla or macadamia nut ice cream with an Oreo crumble pie crust, with whipped cream and fudge on top (served at both restaurants)! Best part is - they are walking distance from the Kaanapali hotels! 

• 🍽 Best for: Lunch or Dinner

• 🕒 Best time to go: Happy Hour

• 👶 Kid-friendly? Yes

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Merriman's Kapalua ($$$$)

Location: 1 Bay Club Pl, Lahaina, HI 96761

The perfect spot for sunset drinks and dinner, and a fine dining restaurant right on the water overlooking Kapalua Bay. Their cocktails are superb, made with fresh ingredients. The farm to table menu has a variety of fresh fish like Mahi Mahi and savory steak. Make a reservation a month in advance to get in around sunset (you can google "sunset in Maui" and a time table will appear). Merriman's about a 15 min drive from the Kaanapali resorts.

• 🍽 Best for: Dinner

• 🕒 Best time to go: SUNSET FOR THE VIEW!

• 👶 Kid-friendly? Yes

Yes, the sky was PINK! Made my Mai Tai much more enjoyable with a view like this:

Call ahead and make reservations or use Resy.com

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Aloha Mixed Plate ($$) - BACK OPEN AGAIN!

Location: 1285 Front Street, Lahaina

Star Noodle had taken over their location but as of October 2024, Star Noodle moved next door and Aloha Mixed Plate moved back home to their original location. You get the most bang for your buck here! Good sized portions of traditional Hawaiian fare.

What to order: I went for the traditional Aloha Mixed Plate -most popular combination - shoyu chicken, thinly sliced teriyaki rib eye, fresh fish served with macaroni salad and steamed white rice. I also indulged in a Lava Flow which is half strawberry daiquiri and half Pina colada.

Dessert - You must get the Aloha Pie - Cookie crumble, coconut ice cream, fudge topped with coconut flakes. Calories don’t count on vacation.

• 🍽 Best for: Dinner

• 🕒 Best time to go: Sunset

• 👶 Kid-friendly? Yes

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Star Noodle ($$)

Location: 1287 Front Street, Lahaina **NEW LOCATION**

See our full review here: Star Noodle Restaurant Review

So many people highly recommended Star Noodle to us, but every time we tried to go on previous trips, there was always a long wait. We made a reservation ahead of time and we finally made it to Star Noodle! It’s right on the water with a great view of Lanai and the perfect spot to watch the sunset. I HIGHLY recommend you make reservation at least a month out to dine at the restaurant.

Star Noodle is known for Asian shared plates, noodle dishes & sake cocktails.

MUST TRY: The garlic noodles and pork buns were so great, they brought us back a second night when we picked up food to go to eat on our balcony! Pro tip: Order the garlic noodles with the udon noodles (they are bigger, thicker, delicious noodles).

We went 3 times in one trip and our staples were the Pork Buns and Chicken Wings for appetizers, along with the Pork Udon (ramen type dish with pork, pork broth, and udon noodles) and the garlic noodles.

For dessert, they did have some interesting ice cream flavors: Ube Oreo, Mint mango, and Pineapple lichee.

Star Noodle has a full bar, but I wasn’t impressed with the selection. Their food is definitely worth the wait.

See our full review here: Star Noodle Restaurant Review

• 🍽 Best for: Dinner

• 🕒 Best time to go: Sunset

• 👶 Kid-friendly? Yes

Star Noodle Pork Buns

Star Noodle Views

Star Noodle Ice Cream Flavors: Ube Oreo, Mint mango, and Pineapple lichee.

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Maui Brewing Company ($$)

Locations: 605 Lipoa Pkwy, Kihei, HI 96753 and NEW LOCATION in the Outrigger Kaanapali Beach Resort - 2525 Kaanapali Pkwy, Lahaina, HI 96761

Maui Brewing Company is great for a beer (variety of selections on tap both local and from the mainland) and appetizers, burgers, and sandwiches. Try the Black Rock dip and chicken wings, you won't be disappointed! 

One thing to note, the Honoapiilani Highway restaurant closed and is now walking distance within the Kaanapali resorts!

Fun Fact: The actual Maui Brew Co brewery is closer to the airport near Kihei. 

• 🍽 Best for: Lunch or Dinner

• 🕒 Best time to go: Happy Hour

• 👶 Kid-friendly? Yes

Maui Brew Co Beers on tap

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Sale Pepe ($$) - NOW OPEN

Address: 157 Kupuohi St STE J1, Lahaina, HI 96761

Sale Pepe has returned after their storefront being destroyed in the Lahaina fires!

An Italian and New Yorker opened an Italian joint in Hawaii and it is PERFECTION! We had a few of their pizzas and pasta and can’t wait to come back for more.

We ordered 2 pizzas and a pasta dish and got 3 meals out of it for the 2 of us. Our favorite pizza was the Tomato, Fior di Latte, Red Onion, Pecorino, Maui Cattle Co. Meatballs Pizza. They cut their slices in fourths, so if you want smaller pieces I suggest you make the request when you order! Indoor seating also available here.

• 🍽 Best for: Pizza

• 🕒 Best time to go: Dinner

• 👶 Kid-friendly? Yes

Sale Pepe Pizza

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Lunch at Aloha Braised Food Truck

Address: 58 Kupuohi St, Lahaina, HI 96761

We went here two days in a row we liked it so much. It’s a little off the beaten path but also conveniently located next to a grocery store and near our favorite dive shop, Extended Horizons! If you like spicy, you must try the Volcano Chicken (fried chicken with spicy mayo) served with rice and mac salad! Josh liked the pork belly! Get a side of crinkle-cut fries to share!

• 🍽 Best for: Lunch

• 🕒 Best time to go: Afternoon

• 👶 Kid-friendly? Yes

Aloha Braised Food Truck - Volcano Chicken

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Lahaina Coolers ($$) - PERMANENTLY CLOSED DUE TO FIRE

OLD Location: 180 Dickenson St #107, Lahaina, HI 96761

Amazing spot for breakfast (or lunch) just off Front Street! There was NO wait on a Saturday morning at 8:30a! We sat out on the patio and had great service right away! I indulged in the Local Benedict (served over Hawaiian sweet bread with Kalua pig) and did not leave hungry. Josh ordered the breakfast sandwich, which was good, but not as good as the benedict. Their potatoes are a perfect mix of french fries and tater tots! Also, try their homemade hot sauce, but caution, it’s SUPER SPICY if you overload!

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Gazebo Restaurant ($$)

Location: Napili Shores Maui by Outrigger, 5315 Lower Honoapiilani Rd, Lahaina, HI 96761

Great breakfast spot, however, it’s always crowded. Try and get there 30 minutes before they open to beat the line. We waited for about an hour after arriving a tad after 7:30a, but saw the most amazing rainbow while waiting (pictured below along with the pancakes that I was too excited to eat and forgot to take a picture of them whole).

Pro-tip: You can go around the back to place an order go (see where the lady is standing in the picture), then sit right on the beach and enjoy your meal with a view of Napili Bay!

The macadamia nut pancake combo with pineapple and banana pancakes made the wait worth it! Make sure you get coconut syrup and whipped cream on top. Their coffee was fresh and strong, definitely order the fresh POG juice (pineapple, orange, guava).

It's about a 15 minute drive from Kaanapali resorts. 

Pro tip #2: park in the free beach parking by Merriman’s then go to the beach/snorkeling after breakfast. Just wait those 30 minutes before you swim! ;-)

• 🍽 Best for: Breakfast

• 🕒 Best time to go: Early Morning

• 👶 Kid-friendly? Yes

Gazebo Restaurant for Breakfast in Lahaina

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Down the Hatch ($$) - TEMPORARILY CLOSED DUE TO FIRES - Hope they open a new location soon!

OLD Location: 658 Front St #102, Lahaina, HI 96761

Breakfast Burrito Maui

We went to Down the Hatch on our last day, in which we were heading to the airport. We decided to order breakfast to go to enjoy at a park along the beach! My breakfast burrito was amazing with a chipotle aioli sauce of some sort and the coffee was freshly brewed.

The downside, if I may, was that football games were on and the restaurant was super busy, taking about 30 mins for my food to go.

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Best Restaurants in Wailea

Wailea is known for its luxury resorts, beautiful beaches, and some of the best dining experiences on the island. From upscale oceanfront restaurants perfect for romantic dinners to laid-back spots ideal for families staying nearby, Wailea offers a wide range of memorable places to eat. If you’re looking for exceptional food, stunning sunset views, and convenient dining close to your resort, these are the best restaurants in Wailea to add to your Maui itinerary.

Ferraro’s Bare Ristorante at the Four Seasons Wailea ($$$)

Location: Four Seasons - 3900 Wailea Alanui Dr, Kihei, HI 96753

After being in Maui for a few weeks, we hadn’t had much Italian food and were so excited about our reservation at Ferraro’s! We came hungry and ordered a lot of food for 2 people…

For an appetizer, we started with the Al Forno Fired Focaccia Bread (Nduja Butter, Roasted Garlic, Maui Olive Oil, Fried Rosemary), which was fantastic. The Nduja Butter was made with salami and was rather tasty.

For dinner, I ordered the Pappardelle A.O.C. Ragu Bolognese (Pork and Beef Ragu, Shaved Pecorino, Fiore Sardo) and there wasn’t a bite left. Josh ordered the Spaghetti Carbonara (Guanciale, Organic Egg, Pecorino Romano, Black Pepper) heavy white cream sauce with a pepper kick. Good, but not our favorite. Call us crazy, but we ordered a side of Gnocchi (Brown Butter, Rosemary, Black Truffle), yes, we ordered a side of pasta to go with our pasta and don’t regret it one bit. It was the best gnocchi we’ve ever had.

You’d think we’d stop there after all the carbs, but no, we went for dessert. So, we liked the options on the regular menu but saw there was an Apple Pie with Vanilla ice cream on the kids/teens menu, and that’s what we went with. It came out looking like a tart and was perfect.

This is one of our new favorite restaurants and we will definitely come back.

• 🍽 Best for: Italian

• 🕒 Best time to go: Early evening

• 👶 Kid-friendly? Yes

Pappardelle and Gnocchi at Ferraro’s Wailea

Apple Pie for dessert at Ferraro’s

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Lineage in Wailea ($$$)

Location: 3750 Wailea Alanui Dr, Wailea, HI 96753

cinnamon leaf and POG Sherbet at Lineage

You might recognize Chef Sheldon as a finalist on the show Top Chef, and after trying his food and drinks you can see why he made to the finals! His theme is eat, drink, and talk story - which is what we did at Lineage!

DRINKS: The Mai'a Tai is different from most Mai Tais but has a delicious spin to the tiki classic. Mai'a Tai - Banks 5 Rum, Banana Milk Punch, Walnut, Pecan, Giffard Apricot de Rousillon, Lime, Almond~Spice Liqueur

FOOD: Josh and I split the Korean Fried Chicken and had both the Sweet Kochujang and Spicy Jalapeno Garlic - Crispy fried chicken, pickled kohlrabi, sesame seeds, peanuts and kochujang glaze. The chicken was tender and perfect with a light kick but not too spicy. Complimentary tea was served to cleanse our palettes and savor our dishes.

DESSERT: We were pretty full but had to try dessert! We had the sherbet flavors cinnamon leaf and POG (Pineapple, Orange, Guava juice). The pog was so tangy and refreshing while the cinnamon leaf had a spice to it. Very yin and yang!

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HUMUHUMUNUKUNUKUAPUA'A ($$$)

Location: Grand Wailea - 3850 Wailea Alanui Dr, Wailea, HI 96753

Easy for you to say! This was our favorite place to get a drink a fancy cocktail in the bar and watch the sunset. Humuhumnukunukuapua’a means triggerfish with a snout like a pig (it’s a reef triggerfish). Their recipe for The Grand has a lighter taste without the dark rum and topped off with a wonderfully sweet pineapple vanilla foam. 

Make reservations ahead of time for dinner here, the menu looks fantastic!

• 🍽 Best for: Cocktails and Appetizers

• 🕒 Best time to go: Sunset

• 👶 Kid-friendly? No

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Spago Maui in Wailea offers oceanfront dining with incredible sunset views and a menu inspired by Hawaiian flavors.

Wolfgang Puck’s Spago Maui at the Four Seasons Wailea ($$$$)

Location: Four Seasons - 3900 Wailea Alanui Dr, Kihei, HI 96753

DRINKS: The mixologists at Spago have come up with some really inventive, and delicious, takes on the Mai Tai, giving that floating in the ocean without a care in the world feeling!

• The 1944 - Plantation Xaymaca Run, Duquesne Aged Rhum Agricole, Dry Curacao, Lime

• The Spago Maui - Plantation Pineapple Rum, Koloa Dark Rum, 151 Proof Rum, Apricot Brandy, Almond, Lime, Pineapple

• The Stirred - Plantation Xaymaca Rum, Duquesne Aged Rhum Agricole, Plantation Pineapple Rum, Dry Curacao, Citrus Oils

FOOD: We enjoyed a nice sunset dinner at Spago overlooking Wailea Beach. Adam Sandler was sitting at the table next to us! For dinner, I savored the Pan Roasted Puna Chicken with surfing goat cheese, chili, garlic, and roasted Aloun Farm's vegetables and Josh had the Wiener Schnitzel with marinated fingerling potatoes, watercress, and Styrian pumpkin seed oil.

Don’t forget dessert! Try the decadent Valrhona Chocolate Soufflé topped with Guanaja Valrhona chocolate sauce & vanilla ice cream! So rich and delish!

• 🍽 Best for: Dinner

• 🕒 Best time to go: Sunset

• 👶 Kid-friendly? No

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MONKEYPOD KITCHEN

Don’t forget, there is a Monkeypod Kitchen in Wailea too! See the Kaanapali section for more or see our full review here: Monkeypod Kitchen Restaurant

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Best Restaurant in Paia / Road to Hana

Mama’s Fish House ($$$)

Location: 799 Poho Pl, Paia, HI 96779

Mama’s Fish House is one of Maui’s most iconic dining experiences, known for ultra-fresh seafood, locally sourced ingredients, and unforgettable oceanfront views. It’s a must-visit for special occasions and first-time visitors looking for a classic Hawaiian fine dining experience. Great for dinner and drinks on the North Shore. We went here on our way back from the Road to Hana adventure. See our guide here: ROAD TO HANA GUIDE

I'm not a fish person particularly, but I did try some and it was the best fish I’ve ever had. I enjoyed their short rib and a couple of Mai Tai's (love that it's served in a tiki glass)!

Make a reservation in advance, we used Opentable. Parking is valet only. 

• 🍽 Best for: Fish

• 🕒 Best time to go: Early evening

• 👶 Kid-friendly? Yes

Mama’s Fish House Mai tai

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BONUS: MAUI COFFEE AND ICE CREAM SUGGESTIONS!

 Island Cream Company ($)

Location: 305 Keawe St #511, Lahaina, HI 96761

I'm not sure Island Cream Company just tastes better because it's in Hawaii (everything is better in Hawaii) or if it's their original recipe with the perfect mix of gelato and ice cream. All ice creams are hand made as well as their cones, fudge and other fun toppings. Most ice creams are natural and products are bought locally.

My favorite was the Maui-Loco filled with Macadamia nuts, chocolate chips and caramel in a creamery coconut ice cream base. So refreshing and delicious!

It was a real treat coming here with our kids! There was something for everyone.

See our full review here: Island Cream Co

Coffee and Breakfast at Island Press Coffee

Address: 2580 Kekaa Dr STE 104, Lahaina, HI 96761

You can’t go wrong with an egg, cheese, and bacon croissant with a Mac nut latte! They also have other croissant variations as well as other pastries (try the crumb cake). We went here twice, taking our breakfast to go to enjoy on the beach!

Island Press coffee and breakfast croissant

Grandma’s Coffee ($)

Location: 9232 Kula Hwy, Kula, HI 96790

Perfect place for coffee and breakfast if you're attempting the back way to Hana. Fresh coffees, espresso drinks and pastries will leave your tummy happy and full.

From central Maui, head up Haleakala Highway 37 from the Hana Highway. Following Highway 37 traverse Haleakala Crater while enjoying the spectacular upcountry Maui views. Continue on to the picturesque community of Keokea, home of Grandma's Coffee House. Grandma's is a short distance from the Kula botanical Gardens and on the way to Tedeschi Vineyards.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Restaurants in Maui

What are the best restaurants in Maui?

Some of the best restaurants in Maui include Mama’s Fish House, Monkeypod Kitchen, Merriman’s Kapalua, Tin Roof Maui, and Star Noodle, offering everything from casual local food to upscale oceanfront dining.

Do you need reservations at Maui restaurants?

Yes, reservations are strongly recommended for popular Maui restaurants, especially for dinner and oceanfront dining, and should often be booked weeks in advance during peak seasons.

Where should I eat in Maui by location?

Kahului is best for casual local food near the airport, Wailea is known for upscale resort dining, and Kaanapali, Lahaina, and Kapalua offer scenic oceanfront and resort-friendly restaurants.

Are there kid-friendly restaurants in Maui?

Yes, Maui has many kid-friendly restaurants, including casual eateries, food trucks, and restaurants with outdoor seating that are well-suited for families.

What is the best area to stay in Maui for food?

Wailea and the Kaanapali–Lahaina area are the best places to stay for food lovers, offering the widest variety of dining options from casual spots to fine dining with sunset views.

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MORE MAUI, HAWAII Travel Inspiration, Hacks, and Tips:

The Hawaiian Islands: Which One Is Right for Your Trip?

Sheraton Kauai Resort

Which island should you choose to travel to for your Hawaiian beach vacation? Oahu, Maui, or Kauai?

Planning a trip to Hawaii but not sure which island to visit? You’re not alone — each Hawaiian island offers a completely different experience, from lively city life and historic landmarks to secluded beaches and dramatic natural landscapes.

Whether you’re planning a family vacation, honeymoon, babymoon, or first-time trip to Hawaii, this guide breaks down the major Hawaiian islands so you can confidently choose the one that fits your travel style best.

I’ve been asked this question a few times, “where to travel in Hawaii, which island is your favorite?” I might be biased because we’ve been to Maui so many times but it all comes down to how you like to travel and what experiences you’re looking for. I broke this list into categories so you can see for yourself what Island matches your style and pace!

RELATED POST: How much does it cost to go to Maui? - Itinerary, budget, and more!

🔎 Jump to Section

• Oahu
• Maui
• Kauai
• Big Island
• Island Comparison
• Island Quiz
• FAQ

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HAWAIIAN ISLANDS: Oahu vs Maui vs Kauai vs The Big Island - which island is best?

🌴 Overview of the Main Hawaiian Islands

While Hawaii is made up of eight major islands, four are most commonly visited by travelers:

• Oahu – Best for first-timers, history, beaches, and nightlife

• Maui - Best Overall Island for Families, Couples & Babymoons

• Kauai – Best for nature lovers and laid-back escapes

• Big Island – Best for volcanoes and unique landscapes

Below, we’ll dive into what makes each island special — and who it’s best for.

Still deciding? Maui is the best all-around Hawaiian island for most travelers, while Oahu is ideal for first-time visitors who want beaches, history, and nightlife.

Not sure which island fits your travel style?
👉 Take the Island Quiz

Take the Quiz

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Oahu

Sunrise in Oahu

Why Visit Oahu?

• World-famous Waikiki Beach

• Pearl Harbor and historic landmarks

• Great restaurants, shopping, and nightlife

• Easy public transportation (no car required)

Best For:

✔ First-time Hawaii travelers
✔ City lovers who still want beaches
✔ History buffs
✔ Travelers without a rental car

Keep in mind: Oahu is busier and more fast-paced than other islands — perfect if you like energy, but not ideal if you’re craving solitude.

See our Oahu Guide - What to do and Where to go

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Maui

Maui - Sunrise at Haleakala

🌺 Maui: Best Overall Island (Families, Couples & Babymoons)

If you want the best mix of relaxation, adventure, and beautiful beaches, Maui consistently ranks as the top choice.

Why Visit Maui?

• Incredible beaches like Wailea and Kaanapali

• The iconic Road to Hana

• Snorkeling, whale watching, and waterfalls

• Luxury resorts and family-friendly hotels

Best For:

✔ Families with kids
✔ Couples & babymoons
✔ Travelers who want variety without island-hopping

Why Maui shines: It offers that classic “Hawaii vacation” feel without being overwhelming.

See our ULTIMATE Maui Travel Guide - Where to stay, what to do, and (most importantly) where to eat!

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Kauai

Kauai - Waimea Canyon

🌿 Kauai: Best for Nature & Relaxation

Known as the Garden Isle, Kauai is lush, dramatic, and incredibly peaceful.

Why Visit Kauai?

• The breathtaking Na Pali Coast

• Stunning hikes and waterfalls

• Fewer crowds and a slower pace

• Minimal nightlife — maximum nature

Best For:

✔ Nature lovers
✔ Honeymooners
✔ Travelers seeking quiet and scenery

Good to know: Kauai is less developed — great for unplugging, but not ideal if you want shopping or nightlife.

See our full Kauai Guide - Where to Stay, Restaurant Recommendations, and things to do in Kauai

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Big Island

Mauna Kea Volcano Eruption on the Big Island - you must see the lava glow at night

🌋 Big Island: Best for Adventure & Volcanoes

The Big Island of Hawaii offers the most diverse landscapes of any island — from black sand beaches to active volcanoes.

Why Visit the Big Island?

• Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

• Black, white, and green sand beaches

• Stargazing on Mauna Kea

• Less touristy feel

Best For:

✔ Adventurous travelers
✔ Repeat Hawaii visitors
✔ Those wanting something unique

Note: The island is large — driving distances are longer than on other islands.

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Are you looking for a fast-paced or relaxing kinda trip?

• More Relaxation - Kauai was like driving through a jungle most of the time! The island felt very spread out, and as it is the garden isle, it was so lush and green. We went in January which was very windy and wet, though I hear that’s often the weather pattern in Kauai. We stayed in Poipu and it wasn’t very crowded. No one felt like they were in a rush here, which was nice for a change.

• A little of both - Maui is great so that you can get to remote areas like staying in Hana to unplug for a few days. Or, you can stay in Wailea or Kaanapali at a resort with ocean views and beach access (and spas!). You’ll still have shopping areas and more options to zip around the island.

• Fast-Pace - Oahu is very city-like with lots of high-end retail stores, high-rise buildings, and traffic if you stay in Waikiki! If you’re looking for nightlife, this is your place! The North Shore is more laid back if you want to head up there to relax or catch a surf competition.

See our shopping list (with some great budget-friendly dresses and tons of Hawaiian outfit ideas) straight from Amazon: Hawaii Packing Essentials

Grand Wailea Resort

Outdoor Activities

Kauai - So many things to do outdoors!

• Hiking is available on all three islands, though we did more hikes in Kauai than the other 2 combined! There are many levels of difficulty and well, mud. You can also casually tube down the mountains via water tunnels and canals in some spots!

• Take a helicopter tour around Kauai. Ours was canceled 3 times due to weather so we were unable to go, but the pictures and sites we saw from the ground would have been even better from a birds-eye view.

• Go on a snorkel tour and see the island from the outside looking in.

Maui - Lots of water activities!

• Tour the Road to Hana for lava tubes, hiking, red and black sand beaches, waterfalls, and swimming! The gorgeous remote views will take your breath away!

• Check out what’s under the sea. Lots of great snorkeling and scuba sites all over the west side of Maui. If you don’t want to get wet, check out the aquarium to see the beautiful Hawaiian reef behind glass. During the winter months (November-May), humpback whales migrate through the sheltered ʻAuʻau Channel between the islands of Maui county!

Oahu - So much to explore!

• Visit Pearl Harbor! I was surprised by how much there was to see and do there, and most of it is free! There are ships, submarines, and planes you can walk on for an inexpensive price! Get there early before tickets sell out.

• Hike up the inactive volcano, Diamond Head, and take in Waikiki views from above.

• Surf gnarly waves! Some of the best waves in Hawaii can be found on Oahu beaches.

The Big Island - VOLCANO!

• Mauna Kea often erupts and you can see it! Pro-tip: stay until it gets dark to see the lava glow in the crater!

• Great coffee in Kona!

RELATED POST: Maui with Kids - Why Maui is perfect for families

Oahu - View of Waikiki Beach from Diamond Head

Are you a hotel resort or Airbnb type of person?

• Kauai has smaller resorts compared to Maui and Oahu, but they also have some Airbnb type options as well.

• Maui has bigger resorts and more Airbnb type options. Resort prices range from 3 stars to 5 stars along the sand beaches!

• Oahu has lots of skyscraping hotels in Waikiki with lively nightlife! If you have your window open in your room, it almost sounds like New York city with honking and traffic.

• The Big Island - Has great resorts if you’re a tourist. The Airbnb locations might not have as many walkable restaurant options.

No matter which island you choose, we ALWAYS find THE BEST rates through Booking.com. See deals of up to 50% off! You can save a bunch of money if you book a bundle flight+room+rental car! They even have apartments, lodges, and houses you can rent, just like AirBnB or VRBO! By booking through this link, I receive a commission at no additional cost to you! PLEASE support our blog and bookmark this link!

Sheraton Maui Deluxe Room Views

Beaches - Do you want to layout or participate in water activities?

• Kauai - We stopped at a few beaches driving along the coast and most were completely empty! Great sand to layout on or take a long walk.

• Maui - Lots of beaches to visit on the west side! If you drive further away from the resorts, you might have a beach to yourself! However, the resorts do have a lot of water activities available such as parasailing, jet ski, etc. If you’re into that!

• Oahu - Head towards the North Shore for less crowded beaches, although the Waikiki waves were pretty fun! Lots of water activities available here too.

• The Big Island - Has a few beaches perfect for kids with shallow entry and a reef barrier! You can also swim with Dolphins at the Hilton Waikoloa Village.

See our shopping list (with some great budget-friendly dresses and tons of Hawaiian outfit ideas) straight from Amazon: Hawaii Packing Essentials

Sheraton Kauai Resort

Restaurants - Do you prefer fine dining or more casual restaurants?

• Kauai - Some fine dining, but more local casual spots. Folks like to turn in early here. We enjoyed Merriman’s which wasn’t too far from our hotel in Poipu.

• Maui - It’s a bit of a mix and match of both fine dining near the bigger resorts as well as great local spots with loco moco! Our favorite restaurant is Monkeypod Kitchen and they have 2 locations (Wailea or Kaanapali)!

• Oahu - More chain-like restaurants here, but definitely some great fine dining options. My favorite restaurant was the Top of Waikiki, a revolving restaurant with 365 views! Sounds like it is permanently closed due to the lack of tourism in 2020!

How do you budget travel to Hawaii and how do you island-hop?

GREAT question! If you’re traveling on a budget, I recommend using points and miles. Plan at least a year in advance if you need to save up! Alaska Airlines offers a great deal if you have their credit card - you can have a companion fly for a discounted price upon booking! Sometimes my flight as a companion is only $150 and free checked bags (1 per person)! Make sure you book well in advance to take advantage of this opportunity. Chase credit card points are also good as they have a 1:1 ratio for points and miles. The Marriott Bonvoy credit card offers a free night a year! I’m happy to give you free pointers if you contact me!

RELATED POST: How much does it cost to go to Maui?- Itinerary, budget, and more!

Don’t want to mess with credit cards? We ALWAYS find THE BEST rates through Booking.com. See deals of up to 50% off! You can save a bunch of money if you book a bundle flight+room+rental car! They even have apartments, lodges, and houses you can rent, just like AirBnB or VRBO!

Most flights come into Honolulu (HNL) or Maui (OGG). From there you can travel to the other islands within an hour via plane.

No matter what, you’ll have a great time in Hawaii! Live aloha and relax! Feel free to contact us for a more in-depth conversation or leave a comment below. We’d be happy to help you plan your next trip!

✈️ Can You Visit More Than One Island?

Yes! Many travelers combine islands on longer trips.

Popular combos:

• Oahu + Maui → City + relaxation

• Maui + Kauai → Beaches + nature

✈️ Inter-island flights are short (30–45 minutes) and frequent.

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Maui - Merriman’s Restaurant at Sunset

💸 Is Hawaii Expensive?

Hawaii can be pricey, but planning helps.

Average costs (per night):

• Budget hotels: $200–$300

• Mid-range resorts: $350–$500

• Luxury resorts: $600+

Saving tips:

• Book early

• Travel shoulder season

• Use grocery stores for breakfasts & snacks

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📅 Best Time to Visit the Hawaiian Islands

• Best weather: April–June & September–October

• Whale season: December–April (best on Maui)

• Peak crowds: Summer, holidays, spring break

Hawaii is beautiful year-round — choosing when to go often depends on crowd tolerance and budget.

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Island Comparison

Island	Best For	Vibe	Top Experiences	Ideal Trip Length	Crowds	Rental Car
Oahu	First-time visitors, culture, nightlife	Lively, urban + beach	Waikiki Beach, Pearl Harbor, Diamond Head, North Shore	5–7 days	High	Optional
Maui	Families, couples, babymoons	Relaxed, scenic, upscale	Road to Hana, whale watching, Wailea/Kaanapali beaches, snorkeling	7–10 days	Medium	Recommended
Kauai	Nature lovers, honeymooners	Quiet, lush, laid-back	Na Pali Coast, Waimea Canyon, waterfalls, hiking	5–7 days	Low–Medium	Required
Big Island	Adventure seekers, repeat visitors	Wild, diverse, spacious	Volcanoes National Park, black sand beaches, Mauna Kea stargazing	7–10 days	Low	Required

New Dolphin Show at the Hilton Waikoloa Village on The Big Island

QUIZ: Which Hawaiian Island Should You Visit?

If you’ve read this far and still can’t decide, this quick quiz will point you in the right direction.

🌴 Which Hawaiian Island Should You Visit?

Answer these quick questions to find your perfect island match.

1️⃣ Your ideal vacation day looks like:

Shopping, sightseeing, and great food Beach time with a little adventure Hiking, waterfalls, and quiet beaches Exploring volcanoes and unique landscapes

2️⃣ Your travel style is:

Balanced — a little of everything Fast-paced and energetic Slow and peaceful Adventurous and off-the-beaten-path

3️⃣ Who are you traveling with?

Kids or extended family Friends or first-time visitors Partner or honeymoon Solo or repeat Hawaii trip

4️⃣ What matters most to you?

Nature and scenery Beaches and resorts Culture, food, and activities Unique experiences

See My Island Match 🌈

Quick Guide & Planning tips:

• 🌆 First time? → Oahu (Where to stay, what to do)

• 🌺 Best all-around? → Maui (Start planning here)

• 🌿 Love nature & quiet? → Kauai (Everything you need to know)

• 🌋 Want adventure? → Big Island

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Hawaiian Islands FAQ

Which Hawaiian island is best for first-time visitors?

Oahu is usually the best choice for first-time visitors thanks to iconic beaches like Waikiki, major attractions, historic sites such as Pearl Harbor, and the widest variety of restaurants and activities.

Which Hawaiian island is best all-around?

Maui is often considered the best all-around Hawaiian island because it offers a balance of beautiful beaches, resort areas, outdoor adventures, and easy day trips like the Road to Hana.

Which Hawaiian island is best for families?

Maui is very family-friendly with calm beaches, resorts with pools and kid amenities, and plenty of easy activities for all ages.

Which Hawaiian island is best for nature lovers?

Kauai is best for nature lovers who want lush scenery, waterfalls, hiking, and a slower, more peaceful pace.

Can you visit more than one Hawaiian island in one trip?

Yes. Many travelers visit multiple islands on longer trips, commonly pairing Oahu and Maui or Maui and Kauai using short inter-island flights.

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🌈 Final Thoughts

No matter which Hawaiian island you choose, you’ll find unforgettable beaches, warm aloha spirit, and incredible scenery. The key is picking the island that matches how you want to travel, not just what looks best on Instagram.

👉 For detailed itineraries, family-friendly tips, and hotel recommendations, explore the rest of my Hawaii travel guides here on The Sweetest Escapes.

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Please note this is not a sponsored post and based on my own personal experience, all thoughts are my own.

If you liked this post please share it on your favorite social media site using the Share button below because we’d love to get the word out! Feel free to pin this to your favorite Pinterest board:

MORE HAWAII POSTS:

Valentine’s Day Sugar Cookie House (Easy, No Gingerbread Required)

Valentine’s Day sugar cookie house decorated with pink buttercream and heart candies

How to Make a Valentine’s Day Sugar Cookie House Without Gingerbread

This Valentine’s Day sugar cookie house is a fun, festive twist if you love making a gingerbread house at Christmas, you’re going to love this Valentine’s Day sugar cookie house with no Gingerbread required. It’s a fun, festive twist on a classic holiday activity—made with soft sugar cookies instead of gingerbread, pastel icing, and Valentine-themed decorations that kids (and adults) can’t get enough of. Oh and pink… lots of pink! 💗

This sugar cookie house is perfect for Valentine’s Day baking with kids, classroom parties, or a cozy weekend activity at home. There’s no waiting for stiff gingerbread to cool, no rock-hard pieces to wrestle with—just an easy sugar cookie dough that bakes up sturdy enough to build, but delicious enough to eat.

Looking for more sugar cookie house ideas beyond Valentine’s Day?
See our complete Sugar Cookie House Guide for easy builds, kid-friendly designs, and creative ideas for every season.

✨ Jump to a Section ✨

• What Is a Valentine’s Day Sugar Cookie House?
• Sugar Cookie House Shopping List
• Ingredients for a Sugar Cookie House
• Valentine’s Day Sugar Cookie House Recipe
• Step-by-Step Cookie House Assembly

What Is a Valentine’s Day Sugar Cookie House?

A Valentine’s Day sugar cookie house is a festive cookie house made from sturdy rolled sugar cookies instead of gingerbread. The cookies are baked flat, assembled with thick icing or buttercream, and decorated with Valentine-themed candies, sprinkles, and frosting. It’s easier to build, better tasting, and perfect for kids.

Why You’ll Love This Valentine Cookie House

• No gingerbread required – softer, tastier sugar cookies

• Kid-friendly – easy shapes, simple assembly

• Customizable – pink, red, hearts, sprinkles, candies

• Perfect Valentine activity – baking + decorating in one

Whether you’re looking for a unique Valentine’s Day tradition or just want a creative alternative to cupcakes and candy, this cookie house is guaranteed to be a hit.

What Is a Sugar Cookie House?

A sugar cookie house is built just like a traditional gingerbread house—but instead of gingerbread, you use rolled sugar cookie dough cut into house panels. Once baked and cooled, the pieces are assembled with icing and decorated with Valentine-themed candies, frosting, and sprinkles.

It’s easier for beginners, more forgiving for kids, and honestly… much better tasting. I love gingerbread houses- minus the gingerbread!

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Valentine’s Day sugar cookie house decorated with pink buttercream and heart candies

Valentine Sugar Cookie House Shopping List

These tools make building a Valentine’s Day sugar cookie house easier—especially with kids. Shop our Amazon Favorite Baking List!

Baking Essentials

• Rolling pin (use adjustable thickness rolling guides if you have one)

• Silicone baking mats or parchment paper

• Sharp knife or pizza cutter (for cutting house panels)

• Baking sheets

Decorating Tools

• Piping bags (reusable or disposable)

• Round piping tips (or cut the tip off the bag)

• Small offset spatula or butter knife

• Reusable squeeze bottles (great for little hands)

Valentine Decorations

• Valentine sprinkles (pink, red, white)

• Conversation hearts

• Mini marshmallows

• Heart-shaped candies or chocolates

Optional (But Helpful)

• Gel food coloring (pink, red, white)

• Small bowls for sorting candy

• Plastic knives or spoons for kids

• Apron or parchment for easy cleanup

💡 Tip: If you already make sugar cookies at Christmas, you likely already have most of these on hand—this project just uses them in a new, festive way. I’m using red M&M’s from a leftover bag of red and green Christmas M&M’s!

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Ingredients for a Sugar Cookie House

Ingredients for a Sugar Cookie House

This Valentine’s Day sugar cookie house uses the same sturdy sugar cookie dough I rely on for our Christmas cookie houses. It’s specifically designed to hold its shape while baking, making it perfect for building—without sacrificing flavor.

Sugar Cookie Dough

• Unsalted butter, softened

• Granulated sugar

• Vanilla extract

• All-purpose flour

• Milk

• Sprinkles

💡 This is not a soft drop-cookie dough. It’s a rolled sugar cookie dough that bakes flat and sturdy enough to support walls and a roof. It tastes similar to shortbread cookies.

Buttercream Icing (for Assembly & Decorating)

Instead of royal icing, I use a simple buttercream frosting to assemble and decorate my sugar cookie houses—and I’ve never had an issue with them falling apart. It’s easier to make, tastes better, and uses ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen.

Buttercream Ingredients

• Unsalted butter, softened

• Powdered sugar

• Vanilla extract

• Milk or cream (as needed)

That’s it. No specialty ingredients, no meringue powder.

Valentine Decorations (Optional but Fun!)

• Valentine sprinkles

• Pink, red, and white candies

• Conversation hearts

• Mini marshmallows

• Heart-shaped candies or chocolates

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Sugar Cookie House Template

Sugar Cookie Dough Tips (Important!)

These tips are key to making sure your Valentine cookie house actually stands up:

✔ Use the Same Recipe + Method

I use the exact same sugar cookie dough and steps from my Christmas sugar cookie house—no changes needed. The dough is intentionally:

• Firm

• Easy to roll

• Resistant to spreading

If you’ve made my gingerbread-style sugar cookie house before, you’ll feel right at home here.

✔ Chill the Dough

Chilling the dough before cutting helps:

• Keep edges sharp

• Prevent spreading

• Ensure straight walls and roof pieces

If the dough becomes soft while working, pop it back in the fridge for 10–15 minutes.

✔ Roll Dough Evenly

Roll the dough to an even thickness (about ¼ inch). Uneven dough can cause warped pieces, which makes assembly harder.

✔ Bake Until Just Set

You want the cookies:

• Fully baked

• Lightly golden on the edges

• Firm once cooled

Underbaked cookies will bend; overbaked cookies can crack.

✔ Cool Completely Before Building

Let all cookie pieces cool completely before assembling. Warm cookies are fragile and more likely to break when handled.

Free Valentine’s Day Sugar Cookie House Template

If you want perfectly sized walls and roofs without guesswork, we created a free printable sugar cookie house template that makes Valentine’s Day cookie houses even easier. The template works beautifully with sugar cookie dough and helps keep every piece uniform so assembly is simple and stress-free.

This printable is perfect for:

• Valentine’s Day sugar cookie houses

• Heart-themed or pastel designs

• Decorating with kids

👉 Download the free sugar cookie house template here:
https://www.thesweetestescapes.com/shop/gingerbread-house

Tip: The same template can be reused for Christmas, Valentine’s Day, and any themed sugar cookie house you want to create.

Buttercream Frosting Design for Valentine’s Day Sugar Cookie House

Buttercream Tips for Structure

To make sure your cookie house stays sturdy:

• Make the buttercream very thick — it should hold stiff peaks

• Use it generously where pieces connect

• Let assembled sections sit for a few minutes before adding the roof

• Decorate once the structure feels stable

If your frosting feels too soft, add more powdered sugar until it’s firm enough to act as glue.

Buttercream vs. Royal Icing for Cookie Houses (FAQ)

Can you really build a cookie house with buttercream?

Yes! A thick buttercream frosting works very well for sugar cookie houses. I’ve used buttercream for multiple cookie houses without any issues with them falling apart. As long as your cookies are fully cooled and your frosting is thick enough, buttercream provides plenty of structure.

Why do most recipes recommend royal icing?

Royal icing is often recommended because it dries rock-hard, which makes it ideal for gingerbread houses that need maximum stability or are meant to be displayed for long periods. However, it’s not the only option—especially for sugar cookie houses that are meant to be enjoyed and eaten.

Does buttercream taste better than royal icing?

In my opinion, yes. Buttercream has a richer, creamier flavor and is much more enjoyable to eat than royal icing, which can be very hard and dry once set. For cookie houses that double as dessert, buttercream is a big win.

Will buttercream hold up if kids are helping?

Absolutely. Buttercream is more forgiving than royal icing, which can crack or harden too quickly. It’s easier for kids to pipe, spread, and decorate with—making it ideal for family baking or classroom-style projects.

When is royal icing the better choice?

Royal icing may be a better option if:

• You want a house to sit out for many days

• You’re building a large or very tall structure

• The house is mostly decorative and not meant to be eaten

For most home bakers and kid-friendly projects, buttercream works beautifully.

Can I use buttercream for both assembly and decorating?

Yes! Buttercream works for both building and decorating your cookie house. You can tint it pink, red, or white for Valentine’s Day and use it to attach pieces, pipe details, and secure decorations all in one step.

Why Buttercream Frosting Works for Cookie Houses

While royal icing dries rock-hard, a thick buttercream icing works surprisingly well for sugar cookie houses when used correctly.

Here’s why I prefer it:

• Better flavor – everyone actually wants to eat it

• Easier to work with – no precise mixing ratios

• Pantry-friendly – no special ingredients required

• More forgiving – great for baking with kids

As long as the frosting is thick and your cookies are fully cooled, buttercream holds the house together just fine.

Lace-Inspired Cookie Details (Valentine’s Day Touch)

Lace-style baking details are trending right now, and they’re a beautiful way to give your Valentine’s sugar cookie house a soft, romantic look. You don’t need special tools — simple royal icing techniques can create a lace-inspired effect that feels elegant without being fussy.

Ideas that work especially well on cookie houses:

• Piped “lace” trim along roof edges

• Heart-shaped windows with lace-style icing borders

• Delicate icing patterns on doors or balconies

• Light dusting of edible pearls or sanding sugar for texture

💡 Tip: Keep lace details minimal so the house still feels fun and kid-friendly.

Frosting and decorating ideas for Valentine’s Sugar Cookie House

Kid-Friendly Valentine Cookie House Decorating Ideas

Decorating is the best part—and this Valentine’s Day sugar cookie house is meant to be fun, low-pressure, and kid-friendly. With soft sugar cookies and easy buttercream frosting, kids can help decorate without worrying about pieces breaking or icing hardening too fast.

Set Up a Decorating Station

Before you start, lay everything out so kids can decorate their Valentine Cookie House independently:

• Bowls of Valentine sprinkles

• Pink, red, and white buttercream

• Small candies and heart-shaped decorations

• Plastic knives or spoons for spreading frosting

This keeps things organized and lets kids focus on creativity instead of waiting for help.

Let Kids Decorate Flat Pieces First

For younger kids, it helps to:

• Decorate the cookie panels before assembling the house

• Keep designs simple—dots, hearts, stripes, and swirls

• Avoid heavy candy on roof pieces

Once the pieces are decorated, you can assemble the house for them or let older kids help. I always decorate the pieces before assembling!

Easy Decorating Ideas Kids Love

These simple ideas are perfect for little hands:

• Heart windows using conversation hearts

• Sprinkle roofs pressed gently into buttercream

• Polka dots made with candy melts or mini candies

• Frosting swirls piped along edges and seams

• See my Pinterest board for decoration inspiration

There’s no “right” way—every cookie house turns out different, and that’s part of the fun.

Decorating Tips for Success

• Use thick buttercream so decorations stay put

• Work slowly and take breaks if kids get overwhelmed

• If something falls off, just add more frosting and try again

Remember: this is about fun, not perfection.

Make It a Valentine Tradition

Turn decorating into a yearly tradition by:

• Letting kids choose the candy colors

• Writing names or hearts on the house with frosting

• Taking photos before it gets eaten

These cookie houses make sweet Valentine memories—and a dessert everyone actually wants to eat.

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Sugar Cookie House Template

Valentine’s Day Sugar Cookie House Recipe (Easy & Kid-Friendly)

Making a Valentine’s Day Sugar Cookie House, requires a little homework and preparation! I made my own template - Gingerbread House blueprint template.

Prep Time: 30 minutes

Chill Time: 1 hour

Bake Time: 12–15 minutes

Total Time: ~2 hours

Yield: 1 Valentine’s Day sugar cookie house

Ingredients

• 2 cups butter, softened

• 1 1/4 cup sugar

• 2 tablespoons milk

• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract (I love Vanillas of the World)

• 4 ½ cups all-purpose flour

• 3/4 cup rainbow sprinkles

• 1 – 2 cup buttercream icing (see recipe in next section below)

Directions - Sugar Cookie Dough That Holds Its Shape

• Step 1 - Preheat oven to 325F.

• Step 2 - In a large mixing bowl beat butter with an electric mixer on medium to high speed for 30 seconds. Add sugar; beat until combined, scraping sides of bowl occasionally. Beat in 2 tablespoons milk and 2 teaspoon vanilla. Beat in as much of the flour as you can with the mixer. At first it may look dry but after adding the liquids it comes together. With a wooden spoon (or cute spatula), stir in sprinkles and any remaining flour.

• Step 3 - Divide dough in half. Cover and chill about 1 hour or until dough is easy to handle (or 15-20 mins in the freezer if you run out of time). You can refrigerate the cookie dough for up to 2 days. On large sheets of parchment paper roll out dough portions to 1/8- to 1/4-inch thick. Lightly flour the top of the dough (put cling wrap between) as necessary to keep it from sticking to the rolling pin. Pro Tip: I lined my cookie sheet with parchment paper so I could cut the excess dough and throw them in the oven!

• Step 4 - Using my gingerbread house template, set pattern pieces on the dough; use a sharp knife (or roll a pizza cutter) to cut around each pattern piece. Remove excess dough. Remove pattern pieces; set aside.

• Step 5 - Transfer cookie dough cutouts on parchment paper to a large cookie sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for 12 to 15 minutes or until edges are lightly browned. Cool 2 minutes on pan. Remove to wire racks and cool completely. Use a knife (or pizza slicer) to cut edges evenly, if necessary. Use excess to make different heart shapes, if desired.

  NOTE: Some of my pieces were pretty thick, so when I put them in the oven, I baked more on the 15-20 min side. It might have been too long because the edges were dry and would kinda crumble when I went to cut them evenly.

• Step 6 - Decorate as desired with buttercream icing (see recipe below), candies, and decorative sprinkles. Refrigerate for 20 mins. Assemble cookie house, using buttercream icing as glue. Let stand until firm.

Back of Valentine’s Day sugar cookie house decorated with pink buttercream and sprinkles

Best Frosting or Icing for Valentine’s Day House

The best frosting for Valentine’s Day Sugar Cookie House construction is buttercream frosting. Most use Royal icing but Buttercream frosting also works and tastes much better.

Ingredients

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened

• 3 teaspoons vanilla extract

• 4 cups confectioners' sugar, sifted if possible

• 1-2 tablespoons milk

• Divide and add food coloring

Directions

• Cream room temperature butter with a hand mixer, the paddle attachment of a stand mixer, or a wooden spoon until smooth and fluffy. Gradually beat in confectioners' sugar cup by cup until fully incorporated. Beat in vanilla extract.

• Pour in milk and beat for an additional 3-4 minutes. Add food coloring, if using, and beat for thirty seconds until smooth or until desired color is reached.

Sugar Cookie House Assembly - use Sprinkle container to help construct

10 Easy Step by Step Instructions of Valentine’s Day Sugar Cookie House Construction

To build and construct a Valentine’s Day Sugar Cookie House, follow these easy step by step instructions:

1. Make the dough ahead of time - you need it to chill in the refrigerator at least an hour before making (or the freezer for 20 mins).

2. While you’re waiting, make a plan for the sizing of your pieces. Check out my Gingerbread House blueprint template if you need one!

3. Preheat your oven to 325F after your chill time is complete.

4. Roll the dough 1/4” thick, I use these rolling guides for my rolling pin so I know it’s the right size. Pro-tip: I roll on the baking mat so it doesn’t slip. To prevent the dough from sticking to the pin, put extra flour on the top and bottom of the dough and put a layer of cling wrap on top, then roll over the dough! Mess free!

5. Place your blueprint pieces on top of the dough and cut around them with a knife or pizza cutter!

6. Transfer dough cutouts to a cookie sheets and bake in the preheated oven for 12 to 15 minutes or until edges are lightly browned. Cool 2 minutes on pan then move to wire racks and cool completely. Use a knife (or pizza slicer) to cut edges evenly, if necessary.

7. While the cookies are cooling, make your frosting and check Pinterest for design inspiration, like my Valentine’s Day Treats and Baking Ideas board.

8. Decorate your heart away (pun intended) with buttercream icing (see recipe below), candies, and decorative sprinkles. Refrigerate for 20 mins.

9. Assemble cookie house using buttercream icing as glue. Start with the front and a side piece of the house, first. Pro-tip: Use a soup can or sprinkle jar to help support the house while the frosting firms up. Then apply the second side and back of the house.

10. Decorate around the house and take a few pictures before indulging!

For more sugar cookie house ideas and holiday designs, visit our Sugar Cookie House Guide.

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Valentine’s Day Sugar Cookie House dough

Valentine’s Day Sugar Cookie House FAQ

Can you make a sugar cookie house without gingerbread?

Yes! A sugar cookie house is built using sturdy rolled sugar cookie dough instead of gingerbread. The cookies bake flat, hold their shape well, and are much easier to work with—making them perfect for Valentine’s Day cookie houses.

Is a sugar cookie house easier than a gingerbread house?

Yes, sugar cookie houses are easier than gingerbread houses. The dough is softer to roll, doesn’t need long cooling times, and is more forgiving during assembly, especially when kids are helping.

What frosting works best for a sugar cookie house?

A thick buttercream frosting works very well for sugar cookie houses. When made stiff, buttercream acts as glue to hold the cookie pieces together while also tasting better than traditional royal icing.

Can you really build a cookie house with buttercream?

Yes, you can build a cookie house using buttercream frosting. As long as the cookies are fully cooled and the frosting is thick enough to hold stiff peaks, buttercream provides plenty of structure for assembling and decorating.

Does buttercream hold up when baking with kids?

Absolutely. Buttercream is easier for kids to pipe, spread, and decorate with compared to royal icing. It’s more forgiving, doesn’t harden too quickly, and allows kids to fix mistakes easily.

Do you need to chill sugar cookie dough for a cookie house?

Yes, chilling the dough is very important. Cold dough holds its shape better during baking, prevents spreading, and helps create straight, sturdy walls and roof pieces for your cookie house.

How thick should sugar cookies be for a cookie house?

Sugar cookies for a cookie house should be rolled to an even thickness of about ¼ inch. This thickness provides enough strength for building while still baking evenly.

Can you decorate a sugar cookie house before assembling it?

Yes! Decorating the cookie pieces before assembling the house is especially helpful when baking with kids. Flat pieces are easier to decorate, and you can assemble the structure once the frosting has set slightly.

How far in advance can you make a Valentine’s Day sugar cookie house?

You can bake the cookie pieces 1–2 days in advance and store them in an airtight container. The assembled cookie house is best enjoyed within 1–2 days for freshness.

Is a Valentine’s Day sugar cookie house good for classroom parties?

Yes, Valentine’s Day sugar cookie houses are great for classroom parties. You can pre-bake the pieces, provide buttercream and decorations, and let kids decorate without worrying about hard gingerbread or stiff icing.

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Whether you’re starting a new Valentine’s Day tradition or just looking for a fun baking project to do with kids, this Valentine’s Day sugar cookie house is a sweet way to celebrate. With soft, sturdy sugar cookies, easy buttercream frosting, and endless decorating options, it’s a festive activity that’s just as enjoyable to make as it is to eat. Save this recipe for later, pin it for Valentine’s Day inspiration, and come back to it year after year for a cozy, creative holiday treat everyone will love.

Valentine’s Day Sugar Cookie House (Easy + no Gingerbread and no eggs)

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More Posts:

Sugar Cookie House cutouts

The Ultimate Maui Travel Guide (2026): Where to Stay, Eat, & Explore

Kaanapali Beach Views

The Ultimate Maui Travel Guide (2026 Edition)

Planning a trip to Maui and wondering where to stay, what to do, and the best time to visit? After more than a decade of traveling to Maui—and publishing over 20 in-depth Maui travel guides—this is our most complete and up-to-date resource yet.

This Ultimate Maui Travel Guide (2026) covers everything you need to plan the perfect trip, whether you’re visiting Maui for the first time, traveling with kids or toddlers, planning a honeymoon or babymoon, or returning to explore more of the island. If you're looking for the best Maui travel guide for families, this post covers where to stay, what to do, where to eat, and how to plan the perfect trip with kids. From choosing between Kāʻanapali vs. Wailea, to the best hotels in Maui, top things to do, and real travel tips you won’t find in brochures, we break it all down in one place.

We’ve stayed all over the island, explored Maui in every season, eaten at dozens of restaurants, road-tripped the Road to Hana, snorkeled with Green Hawaiian Sea Turtle, and experienced Maui both with and without kids—so everything here is based on real trips, not sponsored recommendations.

Inside this guide, you’ll find:

• The best time to visit Maui (and when to avoid crowds)

• Where to stay in Maui for families, luxury travelers, and first-timers

• Our top things to do in Maui, from beaches to waterfalls

• A 4-day Maui itinerary you can actually follow

• What to pack, how much a trip really costs, and reservations you need in advance

Whether you’re planning a short getaway or a full island adventure, this guide is designed to help you plan smarter, avoid common mistakes, and make the most of your time in Maui.

This Maui Guide Is Perfect For:

• ✔ First-time visitors
• ✔ Families with toddlers & kids
• ✔ Honeymoons & babymoons
• ✔ Travelers planning 4–10 day trips
• ✔ Visitors looking for 2026 updates

Honua Kai Sunset Views in Maui, Hawaii

Jump to a Section

• Best Time to Visit Maui
• Where to Stay: Kaanapali vs Wailea
• Top Things to Do in Maui
• What to Pack for Maui
• Best Restaurants in Maui
• Best Ice Cream in Maui
• 4-Day Maui Itinerary
• Maui With Kids
• First-Time Maui Tips
• Maui Travel FAQs

None of these recommendations are sponsored. Every hotel, restaurant, and activity is included purely because we love it—and because we believe in supporting local Maui businesses. This is one of the best Maui travel guides for families, covering where to stay, what to do, where to eat, and how to plan the perfect trip with kids.

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🌴 Is Maui Safe to Visit Right Now? (Updated March 25, 2026)

If you’ve been following recent weather in Maui, you might be wondering what to expect when planning your trip — I completely get it! 🤍

We were actually in Hawaii during the recent Kona Low storm, and one of the biggest takeaways was just how quickly the weather can change. Within a few hours, we saw everything from sunshine to heavy rain and wind — it was wild.

👉 See our weather post on Instagram to watch the island go from sunshine → storm → sunshine again in just a few hours.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Kathleen’s Sweetest Escapes (@thesweetestescapes)

The good news is that most areas of Maui — especially Wailea, Kaanapali, and resort areas — remain open and welcoming visitors. Situations like this are typically temporary, but it’s always a good idea to check current conditions before your trip and stay flexible with your plans.

🌤️ This is a great site to check current conditions and status of various areas of the Islands including Maui - https://www.gohawaii.com/kona-low-alert?utm_source=ig&utm_medium=social&utm_content=link_in_bio&fbclid=PAZnRzaAQxjYVleHRuA2FlbQIxMQBzcnRjBmFwcF9pZA8xMjQwMjQ1NzQyODc0MTQAAacBD_lfO0HJsq7Cs_vOkETDo3Ivgj4A4LkXgvs01aL29sPX9zfhuP7g9DIO-Q_aem_X0Bz3IF10O59nkMoN8jrxA

One thing we’ve learned from visiting Maui over the years is that having a flexible itinerary makes all the difference. Some of our favorite days have been the ones where we just stayed close to our hotel, enjoyed the pool or beach, and went with the flow.

As always, be mindful of ocean conditions, which can change quickly, and check local updates during your stay.

Maui is such a special place, and this guide is here to help you plan a trip that feels relaxed, memorable, and easy — no matter when you’re visiting!

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Quick Facts: Maui

• Best Time to Visit: October–Early December
• Best Area to Stay: Kaanapali (Families), Wailea (Luxury)
• Ideal Trip Length: 7–10 days
• Do You Need a Car?: Yes
• Good for Kids?: Very

Best Time to Visit Maui is in October - Kula Farm Pumpkin Patch Views

Best Time to Visit Maui

We got married in October and after trying a few other months, we think this is the best time of year! The weather isn’t as hot as the summer months but you still get plenty of sunshine, and if you book early, prices are cheaper than the high season of Spring/Summer. It’s also the beginning of whale season!

See what else makes October in Maui the best season to visit!

Quick Seasonal Summary

Here is a breakdown of each month:

• January–March (Whale season)

• April–May (Shoulder season sweet spot)

• June–August (Peak summer travel)

• September–October (Best value months)

• November–December (Holiday crowds)

When to Visit Maui

Maui is a year-round destination thanks to its warm temperatures and consistent sunshine, but the best time to visit depends on what you’re looking for — fewer crowds, better prices, whale sightings, or perfect beach weather. Understanding Maui’s seasons can help you plan a trip that matches your travel style and budget.

January–March: Whale Season & Winter Escape

Winter is one of the most popular times to visit Maui, especially for travelers escaping cold weather. From January through March, humpback whales migrate to the waters around Maui, making this the best time of year for whale watching.

What to expect:

• Peak whale season

• Slightly cooler temperatures (still warm by mainland standards)

• Larger winter swells on the north and west shores

• Higher prices and more crowds, especially in February

This is a great time for whale tours, scenic drives, and enjoying resort amenities, though some beaches may be less calm for swimming.

April–May: Shoulder Season Sweetie Spot

Spring is one of the best overall times to visit Maui. The weather remains excellent, crowds thin out after spring break, and prices begin to drop.

Why this is a favorite:

• Warm, sunny days

• Fewer crowds than winter

• Lower hotel rates compared to peak season

• Calm ocean conditions for snorkeling

April and May are ideal for first-time visitors who want a balanced experience without the peak-season rush.

June–August: Summer Travel & Family Season

Summer brings warmer temperatures and consistent sunshine, making it a popular time for families and school vacation travel.

Summer highlights:

• Excellent beach weather

• Calmer ocean conditions overall

• Great snorkeling and water visibility

• Busy resorts and higher demand

While crowds are higher, Maui handles summer tourism well thanks to its spread-out beaches and resorts.

September–October: Best Value Months

Early fall is often considered the best time to visit Maui for deals. After summer travel slows and before the holiday rush begins, prices drop and crowds are lighter.

Why fall is underrated (and our favorite!):

• Lower airfare and hotel prices

• Warm ocean temperatures

• Fewer visitors at major attractions

• Great conditions for beach days

September and October are especially appealing for travelers who want a relaxed, less crowded experience.

November–December: Holiday Travel & Seasonal Transition

Late fall brings a mix of quieter travel early in November and busy holiday periods in late December.

What to know:

• Early November can be calm and affordable

• Thanksgiving and Christmas are peak travel times

• Weather remains warm, though slightly more variable

• Holiday pricing applies in late December

If you’re visiting during the holidays, booking accommodations early is essential.

No matter when you visit, Maui offers beautiful scenery, warm weather, and unforgettable experiences year-round — it’s just a matter of choosing the timing that fits your travel priorities.

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Where to Stay in Maui: Best Resorts and Areas

Choosing the right area is the most important part of planning your Hawaii vacation. Having stayed all over the island, we’ve narrowed it down to the two most popular regions.

Kaanapali vs Wailea: Where to Stay in Maui

	Kaanapali	Wailea
Vibe	Lively, walkable, family-friendly	Upscale, quiet, romantic
Budget	$ – $$$	$$$ – $$$$
Best For	First-timers & families with kids	Honeymoons & luxury travelers

Grand Wailea Mermaid Fountain

Best Locations to Stay in Maui

Choosing where to stay in Maui can completely change your experience. Each area of the island has a different vibe, climate, and pace — and the “best” choice depends on whether you’re traveling with kids, as a couple, or for relaxation.

Kaanapali

Kaanapali offers a lively resort area with a long beachfront walkway, shopping, and restaurants all within walking distance. This is our preferred area to stay!**

Best for:

- Walkability

- Larger resorts

- Group trips and families

Wailea

Wailea is known for luxury resorts, calm beaches, and beautifully manicured grounds. It’s ideal for families, honeymooners, and travelers who want easy beach access without sacrificing comfort.

Best for:

- Families

- Couples

- First-time visitors

Lahaina

Lahaina has more local charm and historic appeal, with a mix of condos, boutique hotels, and oceanfront dining. There aren’t as many options to stay here after the fire in 2023.

Best for:

- Condos

- Budget-friendly stays

- Central access

Kihei

Kihei is one of the most affordable places to stay and offers sunny weather and easy access to beaches.

Best for:

- Budget travelers

- Condo stays

- Long-term visits

Hana

Hana is remote, quiet, and lush — perfect for travelers who want to disconnect. SIGN ME UP!

Best for:

- Adventure seekers

- Romantic stays

- Slower travel

Kaanapali vs. Wailea: Which is better?

• Kaanapali: Best for families, first-timers, and those who want a walkable "resort" feel. It is generally more budget-friendly.

• Wailea: Best for honeymoons, luxury travelers, and a quieter, more exclusive atmosphere.

• Guide to Kaanapali

  Kāʻanapali Beach is one of the most iconic beaches in Maui, known for its soft golden sand, calm clear water, and unbeatable resort location.

  Whether you’re traveling with kids, planning a romantic getaway, or visiting Maui for the first time, Kāʻanapali offers the perfect mix of relaxation, walkability, and activities—all with stunning ocean views. Read our full Kaanapali Guide for more!

  Important note about the 2023 Lahaina fires: While the Lahaina wildfires in August 2023 were devastating for the historic town of Lahaina, the Kāʻanapali resort area was not directly impacted. Most hotels, beaches, and resorts in Kāʻanapali remained intact and operational, and the area continues to welcome visitors. Travelers staying in Kāʻanapali can expect a normal resort experience, while also being mindful and respectful of the ongoing recovery efforts in West Maui.

• Guide to Wailea

  Exploring Wailea is a vibrant mix of adventure and relaxation, with some of our favorite activities including shopping, snorkeling, and hiking.

  The boutique-lined streets offer a perfect blend of high-end brands and charming local shops, ideal for leisurely browsing and finding unique treasures.

  When it’s time to dive into nature, snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters reveals an underwater paradise teeming with colorful reef fish and graceful sea turtles. For those craving a bit of sweat and stunning vistas, the nearby hiking trails wind through lush landscapes and volcanic formations, providing breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and beyond.

  Whether you’re eager to indulge in retail therapy, embrace marine wonders, or chase panoramic panoramas, Wailea effortlessly serves up unforgettable experiences. Read our full Wailea guide here. Wailea effortlessly serves up unforgettable experiences.

Honua Kai 3-bedroom Condo

Our Top Recommended Maui Hotels

• Honua Kai Resort & Spa: Our absolute favorite for stays of a week or more. Since these are condo-style suites with full kitchens, it’s the best place to stay in Maui for families. Read our full Honua Kai Review.

• Sheraton Maui Resort: Located right on Black Rock, this is a snorkeler’s paradise. We highly recommend booking a room overlooking the bluff for the best sunset views on the island. See our Sheraton Maui Review.

• Grand Wailea: If you are looking for the ultimate luxury experience in South Maui, this is it. The pools are legendary. Check out the Grand Wailea experience.

Pro Tip: Looking for more options? Check out our complete list of the Best Hotels in Maui.

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Favorite Top 10 Things to Do in Maui

There’s more to Maui than the beaches and pools! Get out and explore the beautiful island! Our top 10:

• Road to Hana

  The Road to Hana is a 64-mile stretch that runs around the northeast side of the island with rainforests, beaches, stunning coastal views, and waterfalls galore! It’s very different (and adventurous) than the rest of the island! Top Stops on the Road to Hana:

  • Lava Tubes

  • Twin Falls Waterfall

  • Black Sand Beach also known as Waiʻānapanapa State Park (you must have a reservation)

  • Pipiwai Trail (Bamboo Forest) → Waimoku Falls

  • Coconut Glen’s Ice Cream - obviously we got ice cream!

    See more stops and photos and a handy map in our Road to Hana post or our Road to Hana Guide.

• 🤿 Snorkeling Adventures

  We love finding Green Hawaiian Sea Turtles! See our favorite spots including Black Rock, to find our shell friends as well as amazing tropical fish!

• Scuba Dive

  We are scuba certified and LOVE seeing everything Maui has to offer under the sea! There are so many cool spots like a cave called the Cathedral that even has what looks like an alter and stain glass window! See more Scuba Adventures to be had!

  Pro-tip: Get out and snorkel Black Rock during the day and see what lies beneath at night with a guided night scuba dive!

• Hiking Trails

  There are some amazing hikes in Maui with stunning views for all levels of hikers. I’m more of an occasional hiker so if I can do these, you can do it too! See our favorite Maui Hiking Trail list, including the Kapalua Coastal Walking Trail or Pipiwai Trail (Bamboo Forest) that ends at Waimouku Falls (waterfall)!

  All this and more on our full Top 10 Things to do in Maui list.

Hiking with kids in Maui - Pipiwai Trail on the Road to Hana

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What to Pack for Maui

Just a swimsuit! Kidding! We used to travel to Maui for a few days with a carryon and snorkel gear before kids. It’s a little different now that we bring 10 pieces of luggage/carryons/diaper bags but I still pack the same things for me!

Packing for Maui is refreshingly simple thanks to the island’s warm weather and relaxed vibe, but a few smart additions can make your trip far more comfortable. Between beach days, scenic drives, and cooler evenings at higher elevations, having the right essentials ensures you’re prepared without overpacking.

Clothing & Footwear

Maui’s dress code is casual, breathable, and beach-friendly. Think dresses with pockets!

Bring lightweight clothing you can easily mix and match, including shorts, tanks, sundresses, and swimsuits. It’s a good idea to pack more than one swimsuit so you always have a dry option. Comfortable walking shoes are essential for exploring towns, short hikes, and sightseeing, while sandals or flip-flops are perfect for beach days.

Even though Maui is warm year-round, a light jacket or sweater is helpful for evenings, ocean breezes, or trips to higher elevations like Haleakalā.

Beach & Sun Protection Essentials

The Hawaiian sun is strong, so sun protection is one of the most important things to pack.

Reef-safe sunscreen is required in Hawaii and should be applied generously throughout the day. A wide-brim hat and UV-protective sunglasses provide extra protection, while a reusable water bottle helps you stay hydrated during long beach days or sightseeing.

If you plan to explore rocky beaches or snorkel directly from shore, water shoes can be very helpful.

Day Trips & Adventure Gear

Many Maui activities involve being out all day, so having a few practical items on hand makes exploring easier.

A small backpack or beach tote (my fave) is ideal for carrying sunscreen, water, snacks, and electronics. A portable phone charger is especially useful on longer drives like the Road to Hana. Motion sickness remedies are also worth packing if winding roads affect you.

For those planning outdoor adventures, a camera or action camera is a great way to capture Maui’s scenery, waterfalls, and underwater views.

Packing for Families & Kids

Traveling to Maui with kids means packing with sun protection and comfort in mind.

Rash guards or swim shirts help reduce sun exposure, and water shoes protect little feet on rocky beaches. Snacks, refillable containers, and favorite comfort items can make long days and travel transitions easier.

Many accommodations provide baby gear, but it’s always best to confirm ahead of time if you’re relying on items like cribs or high chairs.

Good news: there is a Target and Costco right by the airport if you forget anything!

Toiletries & Practical Items

Most hotels and vacation rentals provide basic toiletries, but it’s helpful to bring travel-size essentials you prefer. After-sun care like aloe vera can be a lifesaver after long days outdoors, and a small first-aid kit is useful for minor scrapes or blisters.

Bug spray is optional but recommended if you plan to visit lush or rainy areas. I always bring it because I often get bites no matter where I go!

What You Can Skip

To save luggage space, you can leave heavy jackets, formal clothing, and bulky beach gear at home. Maui is casual, and most items can be rented or purchased locally if needed.

Want a Full, Printable Packing List?

Don’t miss my favorite outfits for Hawaii as well as my FULL list of must haves- a detailed, printable checklist that covers every category — including electronics, toiletries, and family-specific items!

Download FREE construction truck coloring pages from The Trucks that Saved the Park Coloring Book for kids including favorite characters like dump truck, excavator, and crane truck!

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New Kaanapali Beach Location for Maui Brewing Company

Best Restaurants in Maui: Where to Eat

After a decade of visits, we’ve narrowed down the absolute best places to eat in Maui. From high-end dining to the best food trucks, these are our non-negotiable stops.

1. Monkeypod Kitchen (Kaanapali & Wailea)

Famous for its Lilikoi Foam Mai Tai, Monkeypod is a must-visit. It’s vibrant, family-friendly, and has a great happy hour. Read our Monkeypod Kitchen Review.

2. Merriman’s Maui (Kapalua)

For the best fine dining in Maui with a view, Merriman’s is unbeatable. It’s located right on the point in Kapalua and offers a true "farm-to-table" experience. It’s also our pick for the best Mai Tai on the island.

3. Star Noodle (Lahaina)

While it has moved locations over the years and after the Lahaina fires in 2023, Star Noodle is back home to Lahaina and remains a staple for Asian-fusion fans. Be sure to book your reservations weeks in advance—this is one of the hardest tables to get! See what to order at Star Noodle.

4. Local Favorites & Quick Bites

• Aloha Braised Food Truck: For an authentic, local taste of the islands.

• Burger Shack at the Ritz: The best casual lunch spot with a view of DT Fleming Beach. Don’t forget to save room for a milkshake!

• Island Cream Co: You cannot leave Maui without trying their chocolate macadamia nut ice cream!

Hungry for more? See our Full Guide to the 10 Best Restaurants in Maui.

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Best Ice Cream in Maui

We’ve enjoyed a whole lot of delicious ice cream and refreshing shave ice during our time in Maui! Over the course of our trip, we’ve discovered a few favorite spots that we find ourselves returning to again and again:

1. Island Cream Co - chocolate macadamia nut ice cream is a must!

2. Maui Gelato - options of gelato, Roselani ice cream, affogato, floats, shakes, mochi ice cream, shave ice, and waffles, you won’t be disappointed.

3. Burger Shack Shakes - Not only do they have amazing burgers, but fantastic milkshakes (and some boozy shake options too!). The view of the beach at Kapalua doesn’t hurt either!

4. Hula Pie at Duke’s Beach House Maui - A giant slice of Macadamia Nut ice cream pie and chocolate drizzled on top! Do you need more of an explanation?

Hula Pie at Duke’s Beach House

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Mai Tai at Merriman’s Restaurant

Best Mai Tai In Maui

Merriman’s makes the absolute best Mai Tais in all of Maui! But being the dedicated taste tester that I am, I’ve also tried Mai Tais from several other spots across the island, just to be sure there isn’t an even better one hiding somewhere. See where to get all the Best Mai Tai’s in Maui.

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Our Favorite 4 Day Maui Itinerary

How do you plan your days in Maui? It’s definitely not easy, but hey, someone’s got to take on the challenge! When traveling with toddlers, we tend to go with the flow and follow the mood of the day, since little ones can be unpredictable. However, back when it was just us adults, we’d carefully map out what we wanted to see and do ahead of time because some popular spots require permits or reservations well in advance. Don’t get me wrong, we still do some planning with the kids, but these days it’s mostly about balancing a bit of adventure with plenty of relaxing pool and beach time to keep everyone happy!

This detailed 4-day Maui itinerary is designed specifically for first-time visitors who want a balanced mix of adventure, relaxation, and family-friendly activities.

See our full 4-day Itinerary post.

How Many Days Do You Need in Maui?

You need at least 4 days in Maui! We’ve done extended weekend trips (Thursday to Sunday) and we’ve also stayed in Maui for a month (live like a local!), either way I was still crying all the way to the airport on our last day.

Here is a simple breakdown of how many days you need in Maui and what you should do:

• 3–4 days: Beaches + resort time only

• 5–6 days: Add Road to Hana or Haleakala

• 7–10 days: Ideal for first-timers

• 10+ days: Slow travel + repeat favorites

7-10 days is typically the best amount of time in Maui to get the most out of adventures and relaxation!

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Iao Needle Hike in Maui

How Much Does a Trip to Maui Cost?

Is Maui expensive? It doesn’t have to be! Here’s a real breakdown of how much our Maui trip cost, including flights, hotel, rental car, food, and activities.

See what a mid-range Maui vacation actually costs and plan with confidence.

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Babymoon in Maui

I’ve been pregnant twice in Maui and still managed to have an absolutely wonderful time! Even though I was super cautious during my pregnancies and preferred to spend a lot of time just relaxing and taking it easy, there were still so many amazing activities and beautiful spots to explore around the island.

Maui truly offers a great balance for anyone looking to enjoy themselves gently while soaking up the stunning scenery and island vibes! See more in our Babymoon in Maui post.

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Honeymoon and Romantic Things to do

For a truly romantic getaway, start your evenings with candlelit dinners at seaside restaurants where the ocean breeze pairs perfectly with gourmet cuisine.

Follow that with a sunset cruise, drifting gently on the water as the sky bursts into a palette of pinks and purples—a picture-perfect moment made for two.

After soaking in the sunset, indulge in a couple’s massage to melt away any lingering stress, leaving you both feeling blissfully connected and relaxed.

And for a splash of adventure, snorkeling hand-in-hand among vibrant coral reefs and colorful fish lets you explore a dreamy underwater world together, making memories as deep as the ocean itself.

Find more love on Maui.

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Maui with kids

Maui with Kids

Traveling to Maui with kids is absolutely worth it—and we say that after visiting the island with babies, toddlers, and young kids.

Maui is one of the easiest Hawaiian islands to do as a family, with calm beaches, stroller-friendly resort areas, kid-loving restaurants, and plenty of low-stress activities.

From choosing the best area to stay to planning nap-friendly days and finding beaches that feel more like shallow pools, our complete Maui With Kids guide breaks down everything you need to know to plan a smooth, memory-filled family trip.

🧃 Easy Snacks for Kids (That Don’t Melt in Hawaii)

The best snacks for kids in Hawaii are no-melt, mess-free, and easy to pack. Top options include:

• Gummies – Lightweight, individually wrapped, and won’t melt in the heat.

• Fruit snacks – Easy to portion and perfect for quick snack breaks.

• Pouches – Shelf-stable, refreshing, and ideal for on-the-go eating.

These snacks hold up well during beach days, road trips, and sightseeing in warm Hawaiian weather.

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Jeeps are the best Rental Cars in Maui, Hawaii

First-Time Maui Tips and FAQs

1. Do you need a rental car?

   • ABSOLUTELY! It is very hard to get around the island without one.

2. Is Maui expensive?

   • Yes, but there are many things you can do to cut some costs.

3. How many days is enough?

   • 4 days at least! I always cry on the way to the airport no matter how long we stay.

4. What not to skip on your first visit?

   • SNORKELING is a must! Find a turtle!

5. What part of Maui is best to stay?

   Wailea and Kaanapali are the most popular for first-time visitors.

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Kula Country Farms - Maui, Hawaii

Reservations You Need in Advance for Maui

• Road to Hana park reservations

• Haleakalā sunrise permits

• Popular restaurants

• Snorkel tours

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🌺 The History of Hawaii

Is Hawaii Part of the United States?

Yes — Hawaii is one of the 50 United States.

Hawaii became the 50th state on August 21, 1959, after residents voted overwhelmingly in favor of statehood.

But Hawaii’s history stretches back long before it joined the U.S.

Early Hawaiian Kingdom

Hawaii was originally settled by Polynesian voyagers around 1,500 years ago. Over time, independent chiefdoms developed across the islands.

In 1810, King Kamehameha I unified the Hawaiian Islands into a single kingdom — the Kingdom of Hawaii.

The islands remained an independent nation for nearly a century.

The Overthrow & U.S. Annexation

In 1893, the Hawaiian monarchy was overthrown by a group of American and European business interests. In 1898, Hawaii was formally annexed by the United States during the Spanish-American War, largely because of its strategic Pacific location.

Hawaii later became a U.S. territory in 1900.

When Did Hawaii Become a State?

After decades as a U.S. territory, Hawaii officially became the 50th state on August 21, 1959.

More than 90% of Hawaiian voters supported statehood at the time.

Why Hawaii Is Unique

Hawaii remains culturally distinct from the mainland United States. Native Hawaiian traditions, language, and culture continue to play an important role in daily life across the islands.

Visitors often notice:

• The Hawaiian language on street signs

• The spirit of “aloha”

• Strong local identity and community pride

Understanding Hawaii’s history adds meaningful context to your trip — from visiting ʻIolani Palace in Honolulu to exploring historic Lahaina (before the 2023 wildfires) or paying respects at Pearl Harbor.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is Maui worth visiting in 2026?

Yes, Maui is absolutely worth visiting in 2026. Maui offers world-class beaches, incredible snorkeling, lush rainforests, luxury resorts, and unforgettable scenery. The island has reopened many beloved restaurants and attractions, making it a wonderful time to visit.

2. What is the best time of year to visit Maui?

The best time to visit Maui is October through early December. You’ll enjoy warm weather, fewer crowds, better hotel prices, and the beginning of whale season—without the peak-season crowds of summer and spring.

3. How many days do you need in Maui?

A minimum of 4–5 days is recommended to experience Maui, but 7–10 days is ideal. This allows time for the Road to Hana, snorkeling, beach days, and relaxation without feeling rushed.

4. Where should you stay in Maui for the first time?

First-time visitors should stay in Kaanapali or Wailea.

• Kaanapali is best for families, walkability, and value.

• Wailea is ideal for luxury, romance, and quieter resorts.

5. Is Maui good for families with kids?

Yes, Maui is extremely family-friendly. Many resorts offer kids’ clubs, calm beaches are perfect for swimming, and activities like snorkeling, whale watching, and easy coastal walks are great for all ages.

6. Is Maui expensive?

Maui can be expensive, but it’s possible to plan a trip on a moderate budget. Staying in condo-style resorts, booking activities early, renting a car, and mixing restaurants with food trucks can significantly reduce costs.

7. Do you need a rental car in Maui?

Yes, renting a car is highly recommended in Maui. Public transportation is limited, and many of the island’s top attractions—like the Road to Hana, Haleakalā, and hidden beaches—require driving.

8. Do you need reservations for Maui attractions?

Yes, several popular Maui attractions require advance reservations, including:

• Road to Hana state parks

• Haleakalā sunrise

• Popular restaurants and snorkel tours

Booking early helps avoid disappointment.

9. Is the Road to Hana worth it?

Yes, the Road to Hana is absolutely worth it. It’s one of Maui’s most scenic experiences, featuring waterfalls, rainforests, black sand beaches, and dramatic coastal views. Planning your stops ahead of time makes the experience much more enjoyable.

10. Is Maui good for honeymoons and romantic trips?

Maui is one of the best honeymoon destinations in the world. With luxury resorts, sunset cruises, beachfront dining, couples’ massages, and breathtaking scenery, it’s perfect for romantic getaways.

Common Maui Planning Questions

Is Maui better than Oahu for a first trip?

Maui is better for travelers who want beaches, scenery, and a relaxed pace, while Oahu offers more city life and nightlife.

What is the cheapest month to visit Maui?

September and October typically offer the lowest prices for flights and accommodations.

Is Maui walkable?

Some resort areas like Kaanapali are walkable, but most visitors need a car to explore the island.

Are there free things to do in Maui?

Yes — many of Maui’s best experiences are free, including beaches, scenic drives, hiking trails, and sunrise or sunset viewpoints.

Can you visit Maui without doing the Road to Hana?

Absolutely. While it’s popular, many travelers prefer beaches, snorkeling, and resort time instead.

Is Maui good for a relaxing vacation?

Yes — Maui is ideal for slow travel, beach days, and unwinding, especially in Wailea and Hana.

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Black Rock at Kaanapali Beach - best for snorkeling

Planning Mistakes to Avoid

Maui trip planning can be overwhelming as there is so much to do and see! Here are a few mistakes to avoid when booking your Maui vacation:

• Not booking Haleakalā sunrise early - make sure you get your reservation well ahead of time!

• Skipping reef-safe sunscreen - let’s all do our part in preserving and protecting the reef!

• Underestimating drive times - Maui is bigger than you think!

• Overpacking activities with kids - don’t plan too much for little ones to prevent tired meltdowns!

• Not renting a car - you’ll definitely want a car, Uber and ride shares are available but limited.

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Whether this is your first time visiting Maui or you’re returning to experience it in a new way, we hope this guide helps you plan a trip filled with unforgettable moments, stress-free days, and plenty of sunshine. Maui has a way of slowing life down—in the best possible way—and with a little planning, it becomes the kind of trip you’ll talk about long after you’ve unpacked. If you found this Ultimate Maui Travel Guide helpful, we’d love for you to save it for later or share it with friends and family who are planning a trip too.

Pin this guide to Pinterest so it’s easy to find when you’re ready to start booking, and feel free to share it on social media to help other travelers plan their perfect Maui escape 🌴

Planning a trip to Maui? 🌺 This Ultimate Maui Travel Guide covers everything you need to know — best beaches, Road to Hana stops, where to stay, family tips, hidden gems, and honest advice to help you plan the perfect Hawaii vacation. Whether you're visiting Maui with kids, planning a romantic getaway, or going for the first time, this guide makes it simple.

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More Maui Posts:

Road to Hana Best Stops (2026): Must-See Mile Markers + Map & Honest Tips

Kahanu Garden - National Tropical Botanical Garden

Best Stops on the Road to Hana (2026 Guide + Map & Real Tips)

UPDATED May 4, 2026

The Road to Hana is one of Maui’s most iconic drives — and also one of the most overwhelming to plan. With over 600 curves, dozens of waterfalls, and endless pull-offs, it’s impossible to stop everywhere in one day.

This guide breaks down the best Road to Hana stops that are actually worth it, based on driving the route multiple times. We’ll cover must-see stops, how long the drive really takes, whether it’s worth it, tips for families, and include a map so you can plan without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.

Before you go, check out everything you need to pack for Hawaii here: Packing Checklist for Hawaii

Road to Hana Quick Facts

• ⏱ Time Needed: 8–12 hours round trip
• 🚗 Distance: ~64 miles round trip
• 🛣 Curves: 600+
• 🌉 Bridges: 50+
• 👶 Kid-Friendly? Yes (with planning)
• 🚙 Rental Car OK? Yes
• 🗓 Best Start Time: Before 7am

Sale

The Road to Hana: Complete Guide with Map and Directions 2023

Sale Price: $7.00 Original Price: $10.00

One of our favorite things to do in Maui is to drive the Road to Hana. The road, also known as Hana Highway, stretches around the north to the east coast of Maui, entering through the town of Paia. Stops vary from hiking to waterfalls to gorgeous breathtaking views. You'll even learn some Hawaiian history! Before you head out for your day of fun, this guide will help you map out your stops, provide some Pro Tips, and give you a sense of what to expect for the day. EVERYTHING you’ll need to know is right here!

See our detailed ROAD TO HANA post for more information as to how valuable this guide is!

Add to Cart

Don’t forget to download our ROAD TO HANA COMPLETE GUIDE with map for 23+ stops!

It is filled with more information on popular stops including pro tips on what to do while you’re there, parking tips, and awesome food stops! It’s your guide to a perfect day along the Road to Hana!

By purchasing, you’re helping support the blog with the time and effort put into these posts. 😉

Jump to:

• Best Stops on the Road to Hana
• Road to Hana Map
• Road to Hana With Kids
• Drive It Yourself vs a Tour
• What to Skip on the Road to Hana

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Before you Begin - Directions to Road to Hana Map

Download our ROAD TO HANA COMPLETE GUIDE or something you can access Road to Hana stops offline. Cell reception can be spotty, especially when you're looking for that waterfall you've been dying to see. Make sure you save the guide to an offline source like the "Books" app on your iPhone.

Here is a Road to Hana map that coincides with all stops listed below that you can turn on, and save to your Google Maps app:

Prior to your departure, map out about 6 stops for the day. We have more stops below as we’ve done this drive multiple times, but you can't do all of these in one day.

PRO TIP: On your flight to Hawaii is a GREAT time to make your Road to Hana plan! Download our ROAD TO HANA COMPLETE GUIDE PDF prior to your flight to your computer, tablet, or smartphone in an offline app!

How long does it take to drive the Road to Hana?

That’s a loaded question, it takes about 3 hours to drive the Road to Hana Highway get to Hana Town from Kaanapali or Wailea. It’s then up to you how long you want to spend at stops and how far you want to travel.

The Best Road to Hana Stops (If You Only Have One Day)

If this is your first time driving the Road to Hana, these are the stops that give you the best experience without rushing or burnout:

1. Coconut Glen's ice cream (15 mins)

2. Lava Tubes (30 mins)

3. Black Sand Beach (30-60 mins) - YOU MUST MAKE A RESERVATION

4. Red Sand Beach - Koki Beach (30 mins)

5. Haleakala National Park (2 hours - if you do the long hike)

Make sure you bring water (especially for the hike) and snacks for the car. Go for a swim! Don't forget to bring other necessities for the day - download our ROAD TO HANA COMPLETE GUIDE which includes a complete PACKING LIST.

Start early and come back before dark, the roads aren't well lit at night. Jeeps are the best for driving some of these trails. Get a great deal on rental cars with Booking.com.

To drive the Road to Hana you can go 2 ways:

• Normal Way - Take highway 365 to 360 and start clockwise on the Northside.

• Back Way - Head south on Highway 37 and come up counterclockwise to the Northside.

Total drive time is about 6 hours driving to the furthest point (Haleakala National Park) and back without stopping. Be careful on the turns, as some of them go down to one lane. Of course, with so many amazing stops and fabulous views, it doesn't seem that long!

We've driven around Hana both ways. The rental car companies advise you not to come "the back way" to prevent wear and tear on the unpaved, rocky, jagged roads. Here’s what the back way to Hana looks like (before it gets extremely bumpy for 20+ minutes):

Know Before You Go: 2026 Updates

• Make sure you make a reservation before going to the Black Sand Beach. I would hate for you to be turned away from Waianapanapa State Park

• It rains more often on Hana Highway, make sure you check the latest weather predictions and Road Closures - before you head out. 

• If you don't feel like driving (I don’t blame you), check out this amazing Road to Hana Tour with Activity Authority recommended by a local!

I also used these sites to guide us along the highway:

• Maui Guide - Beautiful photos and great info for all stops on the Road to Hana

• MAUI GUIDE BOOK - great info for Hana, and all things Maui

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FIRST STOP: HALFWAY TO HANA Best Banana Bread Road to Hana Maui

If you travel the traditional clockwise way, your first stop should be the Halfway to Hana stand and stop for the banana bread - it's amazing, and perfect for breakfast! Try their shave ice on your way back, but no judgment if you have it first thing In the morning!

RELATED MAUI POSTS:

Check out our ULTIMATE MAUI TRAVEL GUIDE including where to stay, what to do and best restaurants!

Best Restaurants in Maui

Top 10 Things to do in Maui

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BEST SIGHTS TO SEE ON THE ROAD TO HANA HIGHWAY TOUR:

Our favorite stops to visit on our Hana Highway tours involve fun, patience, adventure, and you might get a little wet!

Is the Road to Hana Worth It?

✔️ Yes, the Road to Hana is worth it if you enjoy waterfalls, lush scenery, and slow travel
❌ No, if you hate long drives or tight roads
✔️ Worth it for first-timers who start early
❌ Not ideal if you’re short on time or prone to motion sickness

The numbers and sights below are in order traveling clockwise representing the mile marker on the Road to Hana (there are markers you'll see along the side of the road). 

Mile Marker #2 Twin Falls

Park in the lot and you can hike down to the falls. If you keep to the left split you'll find Ho’olawa li’ili’i; if you head up to the top, there is another waterfall Ho’olawa nui.

Twin Falls stop on Road to Hana

The Twin Falls have split waterfalls that feed into a pool. Many people love to swim here during the day, but beware - the water is pretty cold! Although it does feel nice on a warm day!

Twin Falls with rope swing on Road to Hana

Parking: Lot available but fills up quickly with tour buses, or you can park along the road. Make sure you turn in your mirrors; those roads are narrow and we've seen them get knocked off! Don't let it happen to you. They also have a snack stand and porta-potties.

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Rainbow Eucalyptus

Mile Marker #7 Rainbow Eucalyptus Trees

The largest grove of rainbow eucalyptus trees can be found near mile marker 7. No need to stop as they can be seen along the highway. I just love these trees with streaks of beautiful colors are scattered throughout the drive, and prominent at the Ke’anae Arboretum as well as areas right before Hana town.  

What is a rainbow eucalyptus?

Per Wikipedia: Patches of outer bark are shed annually at different times, showing a bright green inner bark. This darkens and matures to give blue, purple, orange, and then maroon tones. The previous season’s bark peels off in strips to reveal a brightly colored new bark below. The peeling process results in vertical streaks of red, orange, green, blue, and gray.

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Mile Marker #19 Upper Waikani Falls AKA 3 Bear Falls

3 Bears Falls also known as Upper Waikani Falls at mile marker 19

You can see Upper Waikani Falls also known as 3 Bear Falls from driving along the road (pictured above). It looks like a papa bear, mama bear, and baby bear stream! HOWEVER, there are so many waterfalls, I don't think this one is worthy of an actual stop, just look out your window around mile marker 19!

Parking: If you do plan on stopping, there are spots to pull over on the side of the road.

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My favorite stop: Mile Marker #27 1/2 Coconut Glen’s Ice Cream

Coconut GLen’s Ice Cream

Organic, vegan ice cream made with coconut milk from coconuts found in the jungles of Maui. I was skeptical of the words "vegan" and "coconut milk," but it was quite delicious. Also, they serve their ice cream in coconut shells! We went there on our way back to the hotel; just note their hours when you go. 

Check out our full review here: ICE CREAM REVIEW: Coconut Glen’s Ice Cream

Parking: Has a parking lot with a turtle. Look closely under the shrubs.

Why we always stop at Mile Marker #29 Nahiku Marketplace

Nahiku Marketplace (located at 1546 HI-360, Hana, HI 96713) is also close by, and is a great place to stop for coconut shrimp, fresh fruit, smoothies, or Hawaiian mixed plates! We LOVE grabbing lunch (like a picnic) at the food trucks and taking it to a beach or waterfall to enjoy.

While waiting for your tacos at Da Fish Shack, it's the perfect time to pull out our Truck Hero Scavenger Hunt to keep the kids entertained!

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Literary Hawaiian Culture Stop: Mile Marker #31 Lava Tubes or Ka'leleku Cave

Just past mile marker 31, turn left onto Ulaino Road. Drive 0.4 miles to the “Hana Lava Tube” visitor center entrance. The entry fee was $12 a few years ago. It may have gone up (cash only), which provides a quick overview and history as well as a map and a flashlight to explore.

The Lava Tube is about 1/3 mile long and was formed when massive lava flows cooled off on the surface, creating an insulating conduit with lava flowing underneath. During eruptions, the cave served as a channel for the lava to travel along underground until it reached the ocean. In the tubes, you will find lavacicles, stalactites, and a few skylights along the way. We spent about 30 minutes getting to the end and back. Above ground, there is a maze full of ti plants (a maroon color). Good luck!

Parking: There is a parking lot!

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Beautiful Views: Mile Marker #31 Kahanu Garden - National Tropical Botanical Garden

Address: 650 Ulaino Rd Hana, HI

Just down the street from the Lava Tubes, lives a lush botanical garden with waterfalls & gorgeous coastal views.

Per their website: Plant collections from the Pacific Islands are the focus here, particularly plants of value to the Hawaiian people as well as other cultures of Polynesia, Micronesia, and Melanesia. Kahanu Garden is situated in the storied land of Honoma'ele and home to Pi'ilanihale Heiau, a massive lava-rock structure that is believed to be the largest ancient man-made structure in Polynesia.

You can take a guided tour or just wander around (which we did for about 30-45 minutes). Tour info per their website:

• Tour Duration: 2 hours

• Check day and operating hours on their website

• Ticket Prices for a guided tour: Adults (13 and older) - $30 | Children (12 and younger) - free*

• Ticket Prices for self-tour: Adults (18 and older) – $12 | Kamaaina – $7 |Teen (17-13) – $5 | Children (12 and younger) – free | Hana Residents – free*

  *ticket prices are subject to change. Make sure you check their website for the latest info!

Pro Tip: Just past the twin falls there is the Garden of Eden Arboretum (10600 Hana Hwy, Haiku, HI 96708), but the views are better at Kahanu Garden.

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#32 Waianapanapa State Wayside Park - Black Sand Beach (MY FAVORITE STOP and best stop for families!)

Black Sand Beach views

This is the main black sand beach with a few sea caves to explore. It’s really different to see the black sand between your toes! According to Skylinehawaii.com, a common way that black sand and black sand beaches are formed is when hot lava hits the cold ocean water and cools very quickly, causing it to shatter and break into pieces of basalt fragments of all sizes-- including grains of black sand.

There are a couple of paths that you can get a little hike and take a moment to stretch your legs! You can even bring food and eat at the picnic tables. Camping is available here if you’re into that!

This was the best stop that we took our toddler to! We were able to walk down to the beach and play in the waves.

NEW: All visitors and commercial operators will need to make reservations to enter the popular Waiʻānapana State Park on Maui, beginning on March 1, 2022. Make your reservation HERE. There are 2-3 hour blocks including an entrance fee per person and parking fee per vehicle:

Entrance Fee

• Hawaii Residents = Free w/ Drivers Lic. or ID

• Non-Residents = $5.00 Per Person

• Children 3 and Under = Free

Parking Fees

Non-Commercial Vehicles

• Residents = Free w/Hawaii ID or Drivers Lic.

• Non-Residents = $10 per vehicle

Commercial PUC Vehicles

• 1-7 passenger vehicles: $25

• 8-25 passenger vehicles: $50

• 26+ passenger vehicles:$90

Parking: There is a parking lot as well as public bathrooms!

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Hana Town

Hana Town stretches for a few miles and here are a few sites you can't miss!

Picture perfect beach we never miss: Mile Marker #50 Hamoa Beach

Hamoa Beach

One of Hawaii's most spectacular beaches hidden on the beautiful Koki Peninsula. Perfect for a refreshing swim or working on your tan on the shore.

Parking and Directions: Drive south on Hana Hwy, turn left on Haneoo Road, then continue driving through the neighborhood until you see the ocean and an area with cars parked along the road. Park on Haneoo and walk down the hill or steps to the beach.

 

Lunch Spots in Hana

Shave ice at the Food Truck Stop

See our COMPLETE ROAD TO HANA GUIDE for a detailed list of restaurant options in Hana (farm stand and even more stops!).

We love to stop at the food trucks - Da Fish Shack and I Lava Tacos!

Address: 5260 Hana Hwy, Hana, HI 96713

1. Da Fish Shack - Food truck along Hana Highway. Have fish any way you like it, tacos or burgers - they have it all. There was also a shave ice truck right next to It where you could get a sweet treat, ice cream, or coffee.

2. I Lava Tacos - AMAZING burritos and tacos can be found at this food truck! I dream of that burrito still.

Don’t forget to grab some shave ice or a sweet vanilla soft serve cone (my fave and delicious on a warm day)! Keep in mind, words from the wise, if it is hot outside these will melt fast!

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KAIHALULU RED SAND BEACH

Why we don’t stop at Kaihalulu: Red Sand Beach

A gorgeous private red sand cove. The sand is actually more deep red-black, which contrasts with the blue water. The cinder cone behind the beach erodes constantly, which enlarges the sand cove. The iron-rich hill makes the beach's sand deep red in color.

Many people have been hurt or have died over the years trying to get to this spot. A local has told me this is sacred ground and we need to respect the Hawaiian culture!

Instead, visit Koki Beach, another red sand beach that is easy to get to and find out more in our Road to Hana Guide!

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My HIGHEST Recommendation: Mile Marker #41 Haleakala National Park - Kipahulu 

Directions: Continuing clockwise past Hana Town, you will find the entrance for Haleakala National park near Mile Marker #41. Parking is $30 per vehicle, $25 per motorcycle, and $15 per pedestrian or bicyclist. Although it is probably the furthest stop on the Road to Hana, there is a lot to do here, so it is best to try and start your day here and work your way back. Pro-tip: For GPS directions, search Kīpahulu Visitor Center.

From this entrance, there are some great hikes in the park, including our favorite trail to Waimoku Falls. You can also follow another trail to take a dip in the Seven Sacred Pools. This is not the same entrance you would use to watch the sunrise at the top of Haleakala, which is located on the other side of the dormant volcano.

The Haleakala National Park site has all info regarding closures as well as hiking trail maps: Click Here

We love hiking with kids on PIPIWAI TRAIL - BAMBOO FOREST

Our favorite hike is to take the Pipiwai Trail, a 4-mile roundtrip hike through the lush bamboo forest, ending at the gorgeous waterfall known as Waimoku Falls.

The hike can be a little steep at times, but not a severe incline, filled with stunning sites and walking through a thick bamboo forest. I loved the sound of the bamboo stems hitting each other in the wind.

WARNING: On one of our trips, there was a "closed" sign due to the fallen trees blocking the trail ahead. Sometimes a ranger patrols the post to prevent people from passing. If violated, you can get a $100 fine, so I'd play by the rules for your safety.

WAIMOKU FALLS - HALEAKALA NATIONAL PARK

After following the Pipiwai Trail, there were signs to follow a trail to get to the waterfall. There were quite a few places where you had to cross streams and jump onto rocks, but that just adds to your "adventurous" life status.  

At the end of the trail, you'll be standing and gazing at a huge 400ft waterfall that is known as Waimoku Falls. The more rain, the bigger the stream!

This trail is family friendly! We put our toddler in a hiking carrier and made it all the way to touch their first waterfall! Kids can hike this trail too, there aren’t too many steep parts or cliffs. I like it because it has a lot of shade.

We must stop and swim at Mile Marker #42 'Ohe'o Gulch (Seven Sacred Pools) - in Haleakala National Park

Around mile marker 42, look real quick to catch a glimpse of ‘Ohe‘o Gulch, a cleft in the island that has layered pools and numerous waterfalls on the east end of Haleakala National Park. 'Ohe'o means "Something Special", which definitely suits these special pools. Also known as the Seven Sacred Pools, when water levels are safe, there are actually more than seven pools open to swimming.

Make sure you obey all signs; some areas are known for rock slides and have killed people. Also, be mindful when swimming directly below a fall, as natural debris may flow over.

We finally swam in the pool in October 2019, which was cold but felt refreshing after our long hike. There are tons of slippery rocks that didn’t work out well barefoot or with flip flops. I HIGHLY recommend water shoes with tread.

Haleakala National Park site has all info regarding closures as well as hiking trail maps: Click Here

You can hike here after Pipiwai trail! It’s not far from the parking lot.

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Driving the Road to Hana With Kids

Is the Road to Hana worth it for kids? Yes, but you MUST plan ahead! It is an all day adventure in the car so keep these in mind:

• Bathroom stop reality

  • There are a lot of stops that have restrooms, but not all do

  • Make sure you know where the closest restrooms are (state parks, general store, restaurant)

• Snack strategy - Pack snacks like you are leaving for 5 days

• Nap expectations - Hopefully if your toddlers are still napping, they can sleep in the car! If not, maybe a stroller walk around the Black Sand Beach.

• When to turn around

  • Try and make your last stop before lunch your furthest point.

  • Start making your way back after lunch, you can make more stops along the way as long as your little one(s) can handle it!

• Safety near waterfalls

  • Be Cautious of Freshwater Illness - Avoid swimming if there are posted warnings and don’t let kids swallow waterfall water.

  • Toddlers and young kids should stay within arm’s reach at all times.

  • Rocks near waterfalls are often slick with algae so wear water shoes with good grip are safer than flip-flops or bare feet.

Here are the most Toddler Friendly Stops and the order we recommend:

• Haleakala National Park for a hike through the Pipiwai Trail (Bamboo Forest) to Waimoku Falls (park near Kīpahulu Visitor Center)

• 'Ohe'o Gulch (Seven Sacred Pools) for a swim

• Lunch in Hana Town - Food trucks will give you the most options

• Black Sand Beach (Wainapanapa State Park)

• Coconut Glen’s Ice Cream

See more things to do in Maui and full guide for Maui with kids including a 5-day itinerary!

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Drive It Yourself vs a Road to Hana Tour

One of the biggest decisions when planning the Road to Hana is whether to drive yourself or book a guided tour. Both options have real pros and cons, and the right choice depends on your travel style.

🚗 Driving the Road to Hana Yourself

Best for: Independent travelers, families with kids, early risers, photographers

Pros:

• Go at your own pace

• Stop (or skip) whenever you want

• Easier with kids who need snack, bathroom, or nap breaks

• More flexibility to turn around early if needed

Cons:

• The driver can’t fully enjoy the views

• Requires navigating narrow, winding roads

• Parking at popular stops can be competitive

Good to know:
Starting early (before 7am) makes a huge difference if you’re driving yourself. Roads are quieter, parking is easier, and the experience feels far less rushed.

🚌 Taking a Road to Hana Tour

Best for: First-time visitors, couples, travelers who don’t want to drive

Pros:

• No driving stress

• Local guides share history and hidden spots

• No worrying about directions or parking

• Often includes lunch and key stops

Cons:

• Fixed schedule and limited stop time

• Less flexibility with kids or nap schedules

• Can feel rushed at popular spots

• Long day sitting on a bus

Good to know:
Tours are a great option if you’re nervous about the drive or want to relax and take in the scenery without navigating tight roads.

⭐ Our Honest Take

If you’re traveling with kids, we strongly recommend driving yourself. The flexibility to stop when you want, adjust the day as needed, and skip crowded spots makes the experience far more enjoyable.

If you’re visiting without kids and prefer a stress-free day where someone else handles the logistics, a guided tour can be a great choice.

There’s no wrong option — the best Road to Hana experience is the one that fits your travel style.

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What to Avoid on the Road to Hana

The Road to Hana can be an incredible experience — but a few common mistakes can turn it into a stressful or unsafe day. Here’s what to avoid to make the most of your drive.

🚫 Trying to Do Too Much

It’s tempting to stop at every waterfall and lookout, but that’s the fastest way to feel rushed and exhausted.

• Pick a handful of must-see stops

• Build in time for bathroom and snack breaks

• It’s okay to skip stops and enjoy the drive

🚫 Starting Too Late in the Day

Late starts lead to traffic, full parking areas, and pressure to rush back before dark.

• Aim to start before 7am

• Morning drives are quieter and more enjoyable

• You’ll have better lighting for photos

🚫 Driving Past Your Comfort Level

The road is narrow, winding, and not the place to push through stress.

• Turn around if the drive becomes overwhelming

• Don’t feel pressured to complete the full loop

• There’s no “right” endpoint for everyone

🚫 Parking Illegally or on the Roadside

Illegal parking is one of the biggest safety issues on the Road to Hana.

• Never block the road or bridges

• Avoid stopping where parking isn’t clearly allowed

• Fines are common and roads are too narrow for mistakes

🚫 Ignoring Weather and Water Conditions

Conditions can change quickly, even on sunny days.

• Skip waterfall swimming after heavy rain

• Avoid muddy, fast-moving water

• Respect all posted warnings and closures

🚫 Trespassing or Ignoring Signs

Many roadside areas are private property.

• “No Trespassing” signs are there for a reason

• Stick to clearly marked public stops

• Respect local communities and residents

🚫 Letting Kids Wander Near Water or Roads

This drive requires extra attention with children.

• Keep kids within arm’s reach near waterfalls

• Watch carefully near roadside pull-offs

• Use water shoes and avoid slippery rocks

🚫 Relying on Cell Service

Cell service is unreliable along much of the route.

• Download maps ahead of time

• Screenshot directions and stop lists

• Don’t assume GPS will work everywhere

⭐ Parent Tip

The best Road to Hana days are flexible ones. If kids are tired or conditions don’t feel right, it’s always okay to turn around early — you’ll still see plenty of beauty along the way.

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Sale

The Road to Hana: Complete Guide with Map and Directions 2023

Sale Price: $7.00 Original Price: $10.00

One of our favorite things to do in Maui is to drive the Road to Hana. The road, also known as Hana Highway, stretches around the north to the east coast of Maui, entering through the town of Paia. Stops vary from hiking to waterfalls to gorgeous breathtaking views. You'll even learn some Hawaiian history! Before you head out for your day of fun, this guide will help you map out your stops, provide some Pro Tips, and give you a sense of what to expect for the day. EVERYTHING you’ll need to know is right here!

See our detailed ROAD TO HANA post for more information as to how valuable this guide is!

Add to Cart

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Click photo for Top 10 Restaurants in Maui

Heading Back Before Dark

After our adventure in Haleakala National Park, we turned around and went back the way we came, stopping for ice cream halfway at Coconut Glen’s (see above - Mile Marker 27.5).

The roads are dangerous as they are narrow and harder to see at night. There aren’t many street lights. It can take up to 3 hours to get from Haleakala National Park back to Kaanapali Beach.

We stopped and had dinner at the infamous Mama's Fish House (make a reservation ahead of time on Opentable).

Pro Tip: You can continue on the Road to Hana from Haleakala National Park, but the roads are very bumpy, narrow (1 lane most of the time), and unkempt. It also breaks your terms with most rental car companies. The safest way is to go back the way you came, especially if it is your first time on the Road to Hana.

 TRY OUR FREE ROAD TO HANA GUIDE: CLICK HERE

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Before you go, check out everything you need to pack for Hawaii here: Packing Checklist for Hawaii  

Get your FREE Road to Hana guide by clicking here: FREE ROAD TO HANA GUIDE

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