Hawaii. Where we stayed, where we ate, and what I wore
Where we stay
I grew up going to Maui but since having little ones we have been going to the Big Island more often and we love it! It is so kid-friendly, more affordable, and their are much nicer accommodations at a lower price point (meaning the homes we stay in would cost twice a much if we were in Wailea, Maui). This was our fourth stay in Mauna Lani and if you have been considering a tropical vacation – I highly recommend it! There are so many places to stay within Mauna Lani, including the recently redone Mauna Lani Resort, Fairmont Orchid, and numerous homes and condos to rent. We have stayed in the KaMilo vacation rentals each trip (in both 3 and 4 bedroom separate homes and town houses) and I cannot recommend it enough. KaMilo has multiple pools, a great work out area and the accommodations are lovely. But the best perk of staying in Mauna Lani is the access to the Mauna Lani Beach Club. It is such a beautiful, kid-friendly beach with it’s own cabanas and amazing restaurant and bar – aka everything you could possible need for a fantastic day at the beach.
Where we eat & drink
Napua at Mauna Lani Beach Club – The amazing restaurant at the beach club that we order cocktails and fish tacos daily for lunch and then spent one lovely evening eating fresh fish on their twinkly lights. Gorgeous and delicious.
Lava Lava Beach Club – Eat amazing food and sip tasty Mai Tais with your toes in the sand all while listening to the best live Hawaiian music. Your kids may even get a hula lesson and get to see turtles too. It is an experience I look forward to every time we are in Hawaii. Don’t miss it.
Pua Hana Champagne and Popcorn Bar – Sip on signature cocktails featuring Veuve Clicquot champagne with a rotating daily selection of gourmet popcorn as you watch the sunset and listen to more live music. I mean….. it is heaven. (Side note: the Fairmont has tons of Coy fish that the boys love to look at)
Surf Shack at Mauna Lani Resort – Enjoy lawn games on the sprawling grass that leads to the beach while sipping amazing cocktails. We spent a few evenings and a few mornings here playing lawn games and sipping cocktails and it was wonderful and great entertainment for the boys. I also want to mention just how lovely this newly redone Auberge Collection resort is. We loved walking here in the morning for coffee and coming back in the evening for a cocktail.
Kona Brewing Co – if you want to make the minutes drive to Kona – don’t miss Kona’s amazing beer and delicious pizza.
Umekes Fish Market – also in Kona and right next to Kona Brewing – get the fish tacos and a Pine-Aperol Spritz. Yum.
Happy Hour at Tommy Bahamas – a $10 grapefruit basil martini paired with coconut shrimp always hits the spot.
What I wore
Amazon Sweater Sweatsuit Set and H&M hat
Amazon Swimsuit, Aerie Hat & Swim Scrunchie and Abercrombie Jean Shorts (the best)
(I love this face sunscreen for me and this one for the boys! Goes on so easy and clear!)
Free People One Piece/Jumpsuit (similar here)
Traveling during COVID
This was our first plane flight since the beginning of the pandemic! We originally had plans to go to Palm Springs but ended up changing our plans because we felt safer about all of the safety measures that were in place in order to be able to fly to Hawaii. Everyone (5 and older) is required to get a negative Covid test about 72 hours before your flight. We went to Carbon Health at Northgate. The testing process was simple but cost about $175 per person and there was quite a bit of work online that had to be done before and after getting the test (but thankfully my husband did it). As you know, masks are required on the flight and that part was fairly simple (except for flying with our 22 month old and there is no alcohol currently being served on flights). The biggest surprise was that you are (quickly) tested again when you arrive to the airport in Hawaii. Masks are required in Hawaii as they are here but everything was open and it was so nice to be able to spend so much time outside!
We (barely) survived our flight home with a very cranky toddler but truly had SUCH a wonderful time! The change of scenery was so refreshing! We are already planning our trip back next year. Let me know if you have any questions! XO
