hawaii

Where to Stay in Hawaii

March 27, 2020 by caitylincoln

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If you’re planning a trip to the Big Island of Hawaii, you’re in for a great time. It’s not the island that most first time visitors to Hawaii choose to visit (most favor Oahu or Maui) and it’s usually because they’re intimidated by its size (you really can’t see the entire island from one central location). Actually, all of the other Hawaiian Islands could fit inside the Big Island TWO TIMES. This is of course why they call it the Big Island. So yes, it can be overwhelming but the Big Island is home to some of the most spectacular sites in the world (the world-not just Hawaii) so it’s a shame to skip it just because the logistics are tougher to figure out. So here’s what you need to know to figure out where to stay in Hawaii:

The island is divided into two sides: Kona side and Hilo side.
The vast majority of visitors stay on the Kona side even though some of the island’s best attractions are on the Hilo side.
It’s a Big Island so while it is possible to stay on one side and drive back and forth to the other, it means a LOT of time in the car so if you want to see the whole island, you should consider staying in at least two places.

Side note: After you read up on the lay of the is(land) and know which part you want to stay on, check out these posts for MORE recommendations:

Big Island condos under $100/night

7 Big Island budget hotels

10 Big Island beach resorts

6 best family friendly resorts on the Big Island

5 best Big Island honeymoon resorts

Top 10 luxury resorts in Hawaii

12 favorite boutique hotels in Hawaii

Here’s an overview of the island broken down by area:

Kona Side

Kona side refers to roughly the entire West side of the island, including the town of Kailua-Kona (often referred to just as “Kona.” This is the dryer side of the island (no lush jungles or rainforests here) and it’s mostly barren lava fields as far as the eye can see. But no rain also means the best beaches (the vast majority on the Big Island are found on the Kona side) and therefore all of the resorts and condos. This side of the island is mostly made up of:

Kailua-Kona

This is where the main airport is and it’s a good home base for exploring this side of the island. There aren’t many beaches in Kona but you will find a lot of budget accommodation options. You can easily drive to beaches located north and south of town and you’ll be close to most of the island’s cultural and historic sites. You can also easily daytrip to the Pololu and Waipo valleys from here. One of the downsides of staying in Kona is how touristy it is. This is where the cruise ships dock so you can imagine what that entails but on the upside there are a lot of shopping and dining options.

Courtyard by Marriott King Kamehameha’s Kona Beach Resort: This casual beachfront hotel next to the Kamakahonu National Historic Landmark has a nice picnic area, two restaurants, a coffee shop, and a beautiful outdoor pool. Click here to check rates and availability during your stay.

Where to Stay in Kauai

March 27, 2020 by caitylincoln

If you’re planning a vacation to Kauai then you’re one lucky dog! It’s one of my favorite Hawaiian islands and probably the prettiest one at that. If you’re very far into the planning process, you’ve probably realized that picking the right place to stay is likely the trickiest (and most important) things you’ll have to do. Where you stay on Kauai can make or break your vacation and there are soooo many options that it can be overwhelming. Not to worry! I’m going to break it down for you, give you an overview of the island.

Side note: After you read up on the lay of the is(land) and know which part you want to stay on, check out these posts for MORE specific recommendations:

7 Kauai budget hotels

12 Kauai beach resorts

Kauai condos under $100/night

5 Best Family Friendly Resorts on Kauai

5 best Kauai honeymoon resorts

Top 10 luxury resorts in Hawaii

12 Favorite boutique hotels in Hawaii

Here’s everything you need to know about where to stay in Kauai:

Lay of the Land

Kauai is divided into four major sections (North Shore, East Shore, South Shore, and West Shore). Each section has its pros and cons and own individual personality. Depending on what you’re looking for and what’s most important to you (budget, convenience, stellar views, beautiful beaches, luxury resorts, etc.) one area of the island may be more desirable. Here’s a breakdown of Kauai’s four main areas:

North Shore

In my opinion, the north shore of Kauai is the most gorgeous place on the planet. It has beautiful beaches and the lush green mountainous landscapes that most people’s Hawaiian dreams are made of. As you might guess, it’s so lush because it rains more here than other parts of the island (especially in the winter). The north shore is home to the charming little surf town of Hanalei and some pretty spectacular luxury accommodations. While it’s stunningly gorgeous, it’s also a bit remote if you’re planning on exploring sites on the south and west sides of the island.

Stay on the north shore if…

You want beautiful beaches with gorgeous backdrops.
You want luxury accommodations.
You’re a golfer.

My favorite properties on the north shore:

Princeville Resort: If you’re honeymooning on Kauai during the summer months (roughly April to October) there’s no place better than the Princeville Resort. It’s located on Kauai’s stunning north shore which is without a doubt the prettiest part of the island (although it rains a LOT in the winter months). The pool here boasts the BEST view of any resort in Hawaii hands down, and the luxe vibe is perfect for a honeymoon. Pricing starts at $405/night. Click here to check pricing and availability during your stay.

Hanalei Colony Resort: If you really want to get away from it all, this beachfront hideaway on Kauai’s lush north shore is the place to do it. You won’t find televisions or phones here but you will find plenty of natural beauty. Click here to check rates and availability during your stay.

Hanalei Bay Resort: This fabulous resort tucked away on Kauai’s secluded north shore, has a fabulous pool area, gorgeous beach, and even tennis facilities. It’s also a popular spot for destination weddings. Click here to check rates and availability during your stay.

East Shore

The east shore is often referred to as the “coconut coast” and is the most developed part of the island. This is where you’ll find the most reasonably priced accommodations and it central location makes it a convenient location from which to explore the north and south shores. There are of course lovely beaches on the coconut coast (hello, this is Hawaii!) but you won’t find any awe inspiring backdrops as you will on the north shore and the amenities are usually not as convenient as those on the south shore. You’ll find more “local” beaches on the east side.

Stay on the east shore if…

Budget is the deciding factor.
You want a convenient home base from which to explore the island.

My favorite properties on the east side:

Kauai Marriott Resort: I think the Kauai Marriott Resort is the best “bang for your buck” beach resort on the island. It has one of the largest pools in Hawaii, a golf course nearby, and a full service spa. Starting at $215/night, the Kauai Marriott Resort is definitely a bargain. Click here to check rates and availability during your stay.

Kauai Shores: I stayed at Kauai Shores on my last trip to Kauai and I LOVED it! It’s easy on the budget but the rooms and common spaces are bright and airy, the onsite restaurant is amazing, and it’s right on the beach! It’s location on the east side of the island makes it perfectly situated for exploring both the north and the south shores. Pricing starts at $109/night. Click here to check pricing and availability during your dates.

Courtyard Kauai at Coconut Beach: Located right on the beach on the east side of Kauai, the Courtyard Kauai is a good option for families who need more space to spread out. There are a variety of suites available. The pool area and grounds are beautifully landscaped and maintained and there’s a game room for families to enjoy together. Pricing starts at $230/night. Click here to check pricing and availability during your stay.

South Shore

Kauai’s south side is the driest and sunniest part of the island, which makes it very popular with tourists. There are plenty of big resorts so you’ll find plenty of shopping and dining options. You’ll also find a nice selection of beaches but expect them to be more crowded than beaches on other parts of the island. The south side is a convenient place from which to explore the west side (Waimea Canyon and Polihole beach) but not so convenient for seeing north shore sites.

Stay on the south shore if…

You want sunny and dry weather.
You like a resort feel.
You want a lot of dining options.

My favorite properties on the south shore:

Grand Hyatt Kauai: The Grand Hyatt Kauai is the flagship place to stay on the south shore and it’s perfect for families or anyone wanting a “big resort” experience. Click here to check rates and availability during your stay.

Ko’a Kea Hotel and Resort: Ko’a Kea is located on Kauai’s best beach (in my opinion) in sunny Poipu. If you’re visiting Kauai during the winter months, this is probably the best place on the island to stay. It’s luxurious and swanky and it’s well situated for day trips to Waimea Canyon and the north shore. You’re also likely to see turtle and Hawaiian monk seals basking in the sun just steps from the resort. Pricing starts at $449/night. Click here to check pricing and availability during your stay.

Sheraton Kauai Resort: Located on what I think is the best beach on Kauai (Poipu beach) where finding turtles or Hawaiian monk seals sunning themselves in the sand is a common sight, you can’t go wrong with staying at the Sheraton. The pool is just steps form the sand and there are cabanas available for rent if you want a break from the sun. The resort also has a daily activity schedule with things like lei making, hula and ukulele lessons, island crafts, and water sport demos. Pricing starts at $230/night. Click here to check pricing and availability during your stay.

West Shore: The west shore is definitely the least visited part of Kauai (except for visitors to Waimea Canyon) and not very many people stay here. It’s very barren, dry, and isolated, and not convenient to seeing the rest of the island. Really the only people who are going to be staying over here are hikers and backpackers and people wanting to get away from it all.

Stay on the west shore if…

You’re planning to do hikes on that part of the island.
You want to spend a lot of time at Polihale beach.

RELATED: 15 Things to Do on Kauai

How to See the Napali Coast

Where to Eat on Kauai

Where to Stay in Maui

December 15, 2019 by caitylincoln

If you’re planning a trip to Maui and wondering where to stay, this post is for you! If you’ve never been before, you might be overwhelmed…which part of the island should you stay on? Are some beaches better than others? Are those fancy resorts really worth the money? Will a condo save you big bucks? I’m going to let you in on everything you need to know!

Lay of the Land, Maui Style

Maui is kind of a big island (we’re talking 10-12 hours of solid driving to go all the way around, which is just a point of reference because NOBODY drives around the entire island in a day) so don’t underestimate its size when you’re planning your trip. It’s divided into four main regions (West Maui, South Maui, East Maui, and the North Shore/Upcountry area) but only has two resort areas (on the west and south shores).

You’ll fly into Kahului Airport (OGG), which is located on the north shore in the valley between the two mountains (Haleakala to the east and the West Maui Mountains to the west). This is where Wal-Mart, Target, Costco, and Whole Foods are located, but you likely won’t spend much time in Kahului once you pick up your rental car and groceries.

West Maui: West Maui was originally developed in the 1960s and remains the most popular place to stay and play on Maui. The old whaling village of Lahaina anchors this area and the Ka’anapali resort area is home to the majority of dining and accommodation options on this side of the island. Drive time from the Kahului airport (OGG) to the Lahaina area is about 45 minutes.

Most people stay in West Maui, if for no other reason than it’s where the majority of the resorts and condos are. West Maui is home to Maui’s original resort areas, and it’s still where most of the tourists flock today. West Maui is usually sunny and dry, making it perfect beach weather. Also, there’s a wide range of accommodation options so whether you’re looking to splurge on a beachfront resort or save on a condo, you can find it in West Maui.

There’s also a lot development, so if you’re the type that likes to be in the middle of the action, West Maui is where it’s going on. Lahaina (an old whaling village turned tourist hot spot) is where many choose to spend their evenings. Front Street is packed with shops and restaurants (many offering ocean views) and has a nice vibe that makes it a “hang out” spot for people in the evenings. The docks in Lahaina are also where a lot of the water excursions leave from (whale watching, glass bottomed boats, submarines, and ferries to Lanai) so if you’re planning to do much of that, it’s nice to be staying nearby.

Maui’s famous Ka’anapali Beach is also in West Maui (just north of Lahaina) and although it comes nowhere near it in terms of crowds, I would call it the Waikiki of Maui. Fronting it are the Sheraton, Westin, Marriot, and Hyatt to name a few. There’s also an outdoor mall with plenty of shopping and dining right on the beach. The three-mile beachfront promenade makes it easy to get around and it seems like there’s always something to do. Catamarans pull right up to the beach to take passengers out on snorkeling excursions and there’s good snorkeling at the far north end at Black Rock.

If you’re looking for something quieter, Napili Bay and Kapalua Bay to the north might float your boat. Napili Bay (a great beach) is surrounded by older condos and small inns or resorts that although they’re showing their age are still pretty charming (and you can’t beat the location)! For more of a luxury resort feel, try Kapalua (the name of a beach, but also a resort area). It’s centered around golfing, but the Montage and the Ritz Carlton are some of the swankiest places around and although you’re not far from Lahaina and Ka’anapali, you’ll feel a world away. There are also a bunch of fancy-schmancy condos in Kapalua.

West Maui is actually one of the prettiest parts of Maui, with the West Maui Mountains rising up in the background offering some amazing hiking trails, it has some of the best beaches on the island (if you don’t mind the crowds) and you’re close to the famous Honolua Bay and all that’s going on in Lahaina and Ka’anapali.

5 Maui Day Trips

November 21, 2019 by caitylincoln

If you’re planning a trip to Maui (maybe you’ve already been before and this is a repeat trip?), you’re likely looking forward to plenty of time beach bumming and doing your favorite things, but just in case you’re looking for even MORE things to do and fun to be had, consider one of these 5 day trips from Maui:

Guide to Upcountry Maui

October 1, 2019 by caitylincoln

Are you planning a trip to Maui? Yippee if you are! You’re probably thinking about swaying palm trees, golden sandy beaches, and exotic marine life and while the land of the hula certainly has all of that, it has much, much more. The vast majority of space on Maui isn’t the shoreline where so many visitors flock each year, but rather the “upcountry.”

Stretching to include the cowboy country of Makawao, the farmland of Kula, the eucalyptus forests of Ulupalakua, and the slopes of Haleakala, exploring upcountry Maui (including the lavender farm Maui) will give you a different perspective of life on the honeymooner’s isle. This is were the people live and if you spend a day or two here you’ll understand why.

The Best Tour Operators for Biking Down Haleakala (Maui’s Dormant Volcano)

July 2, 2019 by caitylincoln

One of the most popular tourist attractions on Maui is Haleakala, a large dormant volcano whose slopes are the heartland of Maui. While tons of people ascend to the summit each morning to watch the sunrise, the lucky ones get to follow it up with a downhill bike ride from summit to sea.

In my opinion, biking down Haleakala is one of the best ways to experience the crater and Upcountry Maui while getting a little dose of excitement (van tours can be sooooo boring!). You don’t even need to be in great shape to do the bike ride…it’s all downhill! When I’ve done it, I probably pedaled less than about 10 rotations the entire time (this might vary depending if you’re ending in Paia or Haiku).

There used to be dozens of companies that offered some version of a sunrise/bike tour down Haleakala, but in efforts to minimize the impact of visitors to the National Park, starting in 2018 only four companies where awarded permits to operate road tours within the park.

So while many companies used to take you up to the summit in a van so you could see sunrise, and then put you on your bike at the entrance to the National Park (no bike rides are available WITHIN the park), the options are now much fewer. There’s only one company that offers sunrise tours at the summit with the option to bike down. There’s another company that offers the same but it also includes ziplining. And there’s also the option of going with a company that will take you up midmorning (no sunrise), and put you on bikes just outside of the National Park entrance. Depending on what you’re looking for (and what your budget is), all three can be good options. I’ll detail the three companies I recommend below, but first I would caution to look out for companies who promise sunrise at Haleakala with a bike tour but don’t have a permit. If you go with them, you’ll be watching sunrise from about 6,700 feet (outside the National Park entrance), not the summit. And if you’re going to go through the trouble of getting up that early and trekking all the way up there, you really ought to see it from the top.

RELATED: Not very familiar with Maui? Read up on the lay of the is(land) and where to stay plus my favorite beach resorts, budget hotels, condos, honeymoon resorts, family friendly resorts, luxury resorts, and boutique hotels plus my area specific guides (including where to stay, eat, and things to do) for Wailea, Ka’anapali, the north shore, and upcountry plus my review of staying at the Four Seasons Maui.

Bike Maui: Bike Maui is the only company that has a permit to offer van tours to the summit for sunrise in conjunction with a bike ride down. They’re pretty much the easiest route if you want to see sunrise (as a tour) and bike down. They have options for either self-paced or group tours. For me, I knew I didn’t want to ride down the mountain with a pack of people and be confined to where the guide chose to stop and their time constraints. So I definitely prefer a self paced tour. Many people pick the group led tour because they think they’ll be on their own if something happens along the way on a self-paced ride. Don’t let that be a deciding factor. Bike Maui will provide you with DETAILED instructions for how to contact them if you need roadside assistance (this covers everything from a flat tire to being too tired to finish to having one too many margaritas at lunch). They’ll also provide you with everything you need (i.e. full-face helmets, rain suits, backpacks, locks, and maps). I would suggest bringing water, sunscreen, and a jacket (especially if you’re doing the sunrise tour, in which case you’ll want PLENTY of layers). The only thing I dislike about Bike Maui is that on the self guided tour you end your ride in Haiku instead of Paia. It’s a cute little town on the north shore (more inland), although not as walkable and appealing as Paia. Guests must be at least 12 years old for this tour. Pickup from resort areas in West and South Maui is included in guided tours and is an additional $25/person for self guided tours. Self guided sunrise tours can be booked starting at $160/person (with an online early booking discount). Guided tours (with stops at Kula Marketplace and Paia) can be booked starting at $200/person. Read more reviews and search for discounts here.

5 Best Spas on Oahu

July 1, 2019 by caitylincoln

Hawaii is home to some of the world’s best spas and resorts and while Oahu doesn’t do luxury and relaxing experiences quite as well as some of the other islands (mainly Maui), there are still quite a few noteworthy spas on the island. Whether you’re looking for a luxurious setting, a connection to ancient Hawaiian culture, lavish treatments, or convenience, you’ll find something that suits you at these Oahu spas:

Moana Lani Spa (Moana Surfrider): The best spa in Waikiki is located in the heart of the strip in the most historic hotel in Hawaii while still feeling a world away from the hustle and bustle of the city. There’s a huge menu of offerings available at lower prices than you’ll find at the spas in Ko’olina and Turtle Bay. You can also purchase a spa day pass to use the facilities (lockers, steam room, whirlpool, sauna, and lounge overlooking the ocean. Find more information here.

Nalu Kinetic Spa (Turtle Bay): If you’re staying on or near Oahu’s famed north shore, this is your best spa option. The oceanfront facility offers a wide range of treatment options including traditional Hawaiian practices. They offer the unique option of a sunset massage as well as weekly happy hour specials (Monday through Friday) which include special deals on treatments that all include a glass of bubbly. Find more information here.

23 Best Local Restaurants on Maui

June 19, 2019 by caitylincoln

Are you heading to Maui and looking for some off the beaten path local spots? I’ve rounded up some of the best places to eat in Maui including my favorite places for plate lunches, seafood, loco mocos, and more! They’re sorted by different parts of the island, and not only do these places have good grub, but they’re high on local charm as well.

West Maui

Aloha Mixed Plate: Located right on the water (and right next to the Old Lahaina Luau), this is the perfect spot to try local style food, but with an atmosphere that’s more appealing to tourists.

Star Noodle: Star Noodle is one of the most popular restaurants in Lahaina and gets consistently good ratings for the quality of the food. It’s also not located on Front Street (the touristy part of town) so the prices are decent. This is a great place to experience local food in a classy but low key environment. This place wins for best food in Lahaina.

Joey’s Kitchen at Whaler’s Village: Most of the best local food spots on Maui aren’t in touristy areas which means if you’re staying at a resort, it’s hard to find options nearby. Joey’s is the answer to that problem on Ka’anapali Beach. Find local favorites to go at this spot at Whaler’s Village.

Ono Kau Kau: One of the best spots for a quick plate lunch in West Maui. Hawaiian, Chinese, and seafood specials are all served at this counter service spot that’s open all day.

808 Grindz Café: If you’re looking for good, hearty food at a reasonable price, you’ll find it here in Lahaina. Think fluffy pancakes in a variety of flavors and plenty of local plates (like loco moco). It’s in a little strip mall and there’s no view, but it’s definitely one of Maui’s top breakfast spots (they’re also open for lunch).

Down the Hatch: It’s hard to find a restaurant on Front Street (Lahaina) that’s not a total tourist trap, but this spot combines great island inspired seafood specialties with a fun atmosphere. They’re open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner plus they have good happy hour and late night specials. Also check out Breakwall Shave Ice next door which is home to the first “adult” shave ice in Hawaii.

hawaii

Lay of the Land

Lay of the Land, Maui Style

West Maui

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