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The Palm Beaches Travel Guide

April 25, 2023

We went back to The Palm Beaches for our kids spring break last week and this was our second time to the area! This time, the weather was rainy, but we were still able to enjoy the hotel and plenty of indoor activities. Below are all my recommendations for the area!

How to get there:

  • Palm Beach International Airport (PBI) is the closest airport. The other options are to fly into FLL or Miami Airport which are between 45-60 minutes away.
  • We flew from Wilmington NC and Avelo Airlines just started offering nonstop flights to West Palm & FLL!

Where to stay:

  • EAU Palm Beach: Forbes 5-star resort in Manalapan FL. This resort screams luxury and Palm Beach! It was our second time staying on property and they have updated so much in the last two years around the resort. Below is everything we loved about the hotel:
  • On site you can find a newly renovated kids camp with an entire teen area. The staff let me know you can also rent this space out for birthday parties. There is a gaming station, art drawing station, and 24 hour arcade area! Make sure to sign the kids up in advance before your stay as well!
  • Two pools and hot tubs
  • Ping pong table, and tennis court area
  • Amazing restaurants on site
  • Walk out balcony room options
  • Spa on site
  • Watersports on site, non-motorized and motorized.
  • Direct beach access and cabanas for booking.

    Family Activity Recommendations: 
  • Paddle & Snorkel – Complimentary watersport rentals are available to all guests, just inquire with the Our Pool & Beach team beforehand. 
  • Loggers Kids Club – Immersive experience that lets kids tap into their creativity featuring games, crafts, and other fun activities.  
  • April Resort Happenings – see more events and things to do
  • Instagram/Facebook: @PalmBeachesFL @EauPalmBeach 

    Click HERE for more suggestions to get the most out of your trip to The Palm Beaches

What to do:

Explore Palm Beach Island: Steps from the ocean, Palm Beach Island is a town of dreams. Discover the romance of Worth Avenue’s enchanting “Vias” located off the main street where you’ll find one of a kind luxury boutiques and fabulous outdoor dining. 
Most Instagrammable Spots:

  • The Lake Trail – This 5.5 mile long trail runs alongside the western edge of Palm Beach, with a dramatic view of Downtown West Palm Beach and the mansions along the Lake Worth Lagoon.  
  • Worth Avenue Clock Tower – The clock sits right at the entrance of Worth Avenue. It is facing both the avenue and the beautiful Atlantic Ocean that lies beneath. 
  • Via Amore – Second only to Via Mizner in name recognition, Via Amore sports three entrances and a plethora of eye candy. 
  • Via Mizner – Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, Via Mizner was once home to Addison Mizner, who designed the five‑story apartment that anchors the Via.
  • Via Parigi – The closest via to Coconut Row, Via Parigi welcomes passersby with a lush archway that leads to a Mediterranean-inspired oasis.  

    Useful Resources:
  • The Lake Trail Map
  • Worth Avenue Directory & Map
  • Full List of Vias
  • Instagram/Facebook: @PalmBeachesFL 

    Experience The Square in West Palm Beach: At The Square, visitors can unleash their own creativity, while interacting with international and local artists through large-scale installations, murals, pop-up galleries and more. 
    Activity Recommendations
  • The Wishing Tree – Take a selfie with the new 32-feet-tall LED banyan tree pushing the boundaries of art and technology. Located in the heart of The Square.
  • The Garden Shoppe – The Garden Shoppe is retail garden destination that offers locally grown produce, indoor & outdoor plants, herbs, and artwork.  
  • True Food Kitchen – This award-winning, seasonally-inspired restaurant features a variety of chef-driven dishes, hand-crafted cocktails, and natural refreshers including seasonal ingredients that are at their peak of freshness and flavor. 
  • Copper Blues – Copper Blues is a unique concept that has successfully combined three elements near and dear to their heart and soul: Beer, live music, and food!  

    Visit the Cox Science Center and Aquarium in West Palm Beach
  • Serving Palm Beach County since 1961, the Cox Science Center revolves around a simple premise: science is exciting! There is an outdoor playground interactive area for the kids and a planetarium exhibit. We enjoyed learning about the planets and stars during the 30 minute show.

    More Family-Friendly Activities in The Palm Beaches
  • Visit Rapids Waterpark.
  • Visit Lion Country Safari Drive thru Zoo!
  • Take the kids to Shark Wake Park!

Where to eat:

  • Polpo– Located at EAU Palm Beach Resort:
    Experience the tastes of Southern Italy at Polpo Palm Beach, the second outpost of the legendary Greenwich, Connecticut restaurant. Enjoy upscale fare inspired by regional dishes, an Italian-influenced wine selection, handcrafted cocktails, and classic aperitifs and digestives. Dine inside or outside, within sight of the ocean and their terrace firepit.  
  • City Cellar Wine & Bar:
    Executive Chef Rolando Anoceto leads the kitchen with his contemporary outlook on favored classics including dry-aged steaks, fish from the grill, hearth-baked pizzas and fresh pastas. House-cured charcuterie, cheese boards, artisanal breads, and desserts are all made in-house daily in City Cellar’s scratch kitchen.
lainsnow,travel

US Virgin Islands Travel Guide

February 2, 2023

We just got back from a week in the USVIs and I am already planning a trip back! (Which says a lot because we are bougee on where we go). We also spent the second half of our trip exploring the British Virgin Islands (but I will do a second post on that trip.) The main reason we headed down there was for my swimline’s LainSnow’s newest collab with Salt Deck! They are a local boat charter company that does half or full days on the water, and it is nothing but fun! We took the boat out a few days to shoot around the islands and even swam with dolphins. The family that owns the company is so sweet and you now can rock matching swimsuits with their boats starting tomorrow at noon est when the site launches here! Below is everything you need to know to help plan your next trip to the USVIS :). Also all of these amazing underwater shots and boat day pictures were taken by Sarah Swan, book her here!

How to get there:

  • Fly into STT (St Thomas Airport). This is the main hub with all the best flight options. You do not need a passport if just visiting the US Virgin Islands. If you decide to hop over to BVIS, bring it. Also I recommend bringing it because leaving the USVIs their is an expedited line for passport holders.
  • Take a Ferry to St John (Cruz Bay): Book your ferry tickets ahead of time! There are two options here. You can take a 5 minute taxi to Crown Bay Ferry, which then leaves a 45 minute boat ride over to St. John. Or you can take a 45 minute taxi from the airport to Red Hook Ferry, which leaves a 15 minute ferry ride over to St. John. We took the Crown Bay Ferry so we could be in the fresh air immediately following the travel day, but check times on site for both ferry schedules. Red Hook tends to leave every hour, while Crown Bay stops its last ferry around 3pm. If you are going to Lovango Resort, They are their own ferry schedule as well.
  • Rent a Jeep: Book these months in advance during high season! We started calling places a month our and almost everywhere was sold out of jeeps. You definitely need a jeep to cruise the island. We ended up renting with St John Jeeps and had a great experience! They are a short walk from the ferry once you arrive in Cruz Bay.

Where to stay:

  • Coral Bay: This is one of the more secluded sides of St John and we were lucky enough to stay in an amazing property Villa Circe that shows views of BVIS and the Bay! Villa Circe is a 6 bedroom, 4 bath house that has hot tub, pool, game areas, and the most amazing views! The owners were so nice and accommodating. Also, the property management team at Antares was in constant communication for our arrival and met us in a jeep to guide us to the property. It is a little tricky finding it the first time, but after a few drives solo you quickly remember how to get back to the house. It sits high up on the mountain and has wrap around decks!
  • Cruz Bay: This is where all the restaurants and action are if you choose to stay in this area. It is about 20 minutes from Coral Bay.

What to do:

  • Book a boat day with Salty Daze Charters! They have various options, half days and full days. The slides on the boats were game changers for kids and we loved going to Lime Out to grab tacos daily. Its only accessible by boat and have floats and tables in the water to dine!
  • Explore the Beaches: Our favorites were Cinnamon Bay & Trunk Bay. Only a few food truck options at both, so be prepared or pack a lunch!
  • Go on a hike to the national parks (We didnt have time to do this with young kids but everyone recommended it)
  • Go shopping in Cruz Bay! Loved Salt & Strand, it is owned by an NC gal :).

Where to Eat:
(Cruz Bay)

  • High Tide: This is another NC owned business by the sweetest couple. It is located right by the ferry dock and sits on the beach overlooking the water. Perfect place to drink/eat before or after getting on the ferry!
  • ZoZo’s: We dined here one night and got a babysitter, and it was breathtaking. It says a 3 course meal and 3 hours, but we let them know we preferred to eat faster and got out of there in 2 hours!
  • Extra Virgin Bistro: Highly recommended but didn’t have a chance to go.

(Coral Bay)

  • Salty Mongoose Pizza: Ordered from here a few times and kids loved it. The hours are on island time, so typically afternoon is when we found them open.
  • Personal Chef Service: I love doing this on vacations after a long beach or boat day, so you don’t have to worry about anything! We had food catered by Coral Bay Catering one afternoon buffet style. Another night we had Chef Vincent prepare an incredible sit-down meal! Both were amazing and catered to my GF/DF allergies easily.

    Follow us on Instagram & Tiktok to see the highlight videos of the trip as well! <3
travel

Disney World Travel Tips

October 20, 2021

We just got back from a long weekend in Disney World for their 50th anniversary and if you were following along on my instagram stories you know it was anything but smooth! Our direct flights from Raleigh/Durham Airport into Orlando on Southwest were canceled after being delayed for 6 hours, and then we scrambled to even find flights the next day. As you know Disney planning takes months to perfect with all the dining reservations and accommodations etc. I did not want to miss another full day of plans, so we luckily found a company to drive us through the night to Orlando. Shout out to Raleigh Taxi services, you made my kids Disney dreams a reality! We arrived at 4am on Saturday morning, and had 3 hours of sleep until our Character breakfast with Mickey. We did make it, two exhausted parents and two excited kids that didn’t even notice. Here is everything I know right now going to Disney World during these crazy world times. PS* I am cohosting a giveaway for a free 3 night stay to Disney + LainSnow swimsuits for an entire family over on instagram! It closes on 10/24, go tag friends!

Where to Stay:

Wyndham Grand Orlando Resort Bonnet Creek:
We have loved staying off Disney property resorts several years now. The Wyndham was in the perfect location to take a quick ride 10 minutes to the park. The resort also offers free shuttle rides for various times. They also have an amazing buffet breakfast on site which made it seamless to eat and hurry the kids to the parks. They have several pools to choose from, including a lazy river and beach front entry for the kids. One of my favorite meals of our trip was at their onsite restaurant Deep Blu Seafood and Grille. You can see all they have to offer on dining here as well. The giveaway I posted is for a free 3 night stay to this hotel + daily breakfast for two. Enter here on this post for instructions!


Tips for Planning a smooth Disney World Trip:

  • Sign up on Mouse Watcher app for all the dining reservations you need to make! It will send you an alert the second one becomes available. We were able to get all our desired dining this way.
  • Order Magic Bands to link all your hotel reservations, wallet and park tickets to your wrist for easy access.
  • Plan your days by the parks, there is no fast pass system in place right now so that might things a little hectic with young kids, but I heard they were releasing a new Disney Genie pass soon to replace it!
  • Reserve a stroller for the kids to be dropped off at your hotel for arrival. This was a game changer for us, we used Scooter Bug!
  • Order outfits and mickey ears ahead of time on Amazon. You can shop all our outfits here.
  • Have some downtown at the hotels for just lounging between parks.
  • Pack extra Masks, they are requiring them when waiting in indoor lines and all restaurants walking to tables.
travel

Cabo Bachelorette Guide

August 4, 2021

I had the pleasure of hosting my best friends bachelorette last week in CABO, so here is our entire itinerary below for easy planning! This was one of the smoothest and no drama trips I have ever taken with 11 girls. I believe it went so smooth by staying extremely organized and having a plan each day so everyone was on time! I downloaded this itinerary template from Etsy, and made all the girls little hangover kits for the weekend. Below are all the details!



Arrival:
You don’t need a Covid test to enter Mexico, so we all flew in around the same time to SJD airport. We had Vivolx Luxury transportation waiting for us with a sign for pick up! This was key to not be frantically trying to look for a taxi and a great welcoming for the bride on arrival with champagne! You can use code BECCAINGLE for a discount on your next trip with them!


Where we Stayed:
We started the trip at Waldorf Pedregal and got a 3 bedroom luxury suite. We stayed here last year with the kids and fell in love with the resort, you can see that blog post here. It was much more doable when split between 11 girls!


We ended the trip our last 3 nights at Hilton Los Cabos! I was blown away by the hotel when we arrived. Make sure to book a ground floor walk out pool room way ahead of time if staying there, the rooms go fast since limited availability. They have one of the only beachfront swimmable beaches in Cabo and we spend a few afternoons on the beach just floating in the waves! They also have options to ride horses on the beach, rent surfboards, and various cabanas. We spent one afternoon at Enclave Beach club in a Oceanfront Bungalow and it was my favorite day. They have several infinity pools, an entire kids area, slide, park, and beach entry by one side of the hotel too. You can book any Cabana rentals here and also use code SOCIAL for 25% off a stay of two nights or more!

Where to eat:

  • Brunch: Flora Farms or Malibu Cafe
  • Dinner: El Farallon, Cocina Del Mar, The Office ( for a laid back/fun night out), Acre Baja, Nobu Los Cabos, Nido at Viceroy.

What to do:

  • Boat Day: We booked Pelican Cabo and we all agreed it was our favorite day!! They had a chef on site, provided alcohol, and you can customize the trip to stop by the beaches and just float on the mat. 10/10 all around!
  • Day Excursions: Cabo Adventures has an entire list on site. We did the Camels & Atv tours!
  • Pool Party: Omnia Los Cabos, we booked a cabana and this was another epic day just partying from 1-5pm!
  • Themed Nights: We did a color theme night and a wig night, and both made our pictures pop! highly recommend to make the bride stand out! We also did matching swimsuits from LainSnow! Restocking this friday at noon est!
travel

Packing for Island Trips with Shopbop

February 28, 2021

We have been in Florida for a few days and are road tripping the coast with the kids to enjoy the warm weather right now! I wanted to go ahead and share everything I packed for this trip and link to shop.

First off, I live for some sun dresses that are quick to throw on. I am loving this brand Lost + Wonder here on the site! I have several of their dresses in various patterns and shades.

I also packed these tops to throw on with shorts or flowy pants!

Cover ups with Bikinis are key! I am loving all of these here.



I also have been living in this shirt dress cover up since we got on Vacay! Shop it here!



Comfy Sandals are key, I brought all these with me too! Shop Sandals here.

Follow along over on my instagram to see the rest of our road trip through the Florida Keys!

travel

Vail/Beaver Creek Travel Guide

February 16, 2021

We went to Vail for the first time last year with the kids (you can read that guide here) but loved it so much we decided to come again this year & bring our friends this time! When you travel with young kids its hard to experience all the town has to offer with dining and experiences most of the time. This year I took full experience in and made sure we at breakfast, lunch and dinner at new spots! Below is an updated guide on everything we loved this time around.



Things you need to know 2021:

  • Covid updates: The town does stop serving alcohol at 10pm and businesses shut down. The town of Vail Village is pretty quiet and masks required at all times. Regarding Ski reservations, you need to purchase your lift tickets in advance here and schedule your reservations. Boarding the chair lifts the employees will require you to have face masks for loading as well.
  • Getting there: Highly recommend flying into Eagle airport for the view and ease of being just 30 minutes from the town. Our plane actually got delayed so we had to fly into Denver, rent a car, and take the two hour drive into town which was a decent drive. Just don’t try leaving Vail to head back to Denver at peak times, there seemed to be a ton of traffic the other way around 4pm.

Where to Stay:

  • Four Seasons Vail: This is our second time staying at FS Vail and for good reason! The location is perfectly located in town, you can walk to vail village, the rooms have fireplaces, and the spa + pools are ideal! Make sure you get the famous hot chocolate from the Remedy Bar.
  • Westin Riverfront Resort & Spa Avon: We ventured over to check out Avon/Beaver Creek area our last two days and loved this area! The pools and hot tubs here have the most incredible views! The resort also has a gondola with direct access to the slopes which is perfect for families!


Where to Eat: (all these places are at 50% capacity and you need to reserve 2+weeks in advance!)

Vail Area:

  • Remedy Bar (FS Vail): Their grilled cheese, soup, and hot chocolate are my go-to here daily!
  • Flame FS Vail & (Out of Bounds room): Reserve the private dining area for an exclusive experience in the back room of Flame restaurant! We got to meet the chef and it was ideal for our small group!
  • Matsuhisa Vail: Sushi!
  • the 10th (Vail Mtn): My favorite spot on the mtn to stop!
  • Alpine Rose: Great for brunch/lunch! You can reserve a private gondola to dine in!
  • Mountain Standard/Sweet Basil: We did Mtn Standard this time, but heard Sweet Basil it’s sister restaurant is more fine dining.

Beaver Creek Area:




What to do:

  • Snowmobile: We did an entire group of 15 people with Vail Backcountry Tours and loved it!
  • Ski/Snowboard: Vail Mtn & Beaver Creek at the closest slopes.
  • Dog Sledding: We did this last year which you can see in my previous guide!
  • Ice Skating: One located right in Vail Village, you rent the skates on site!
  • Shop Vail Village: Tons of shops!

You can shop all my Snow outfits from this post or my entire feed here!

travel

Malibu Travel Guide with Mazda USA

January 25, 2021

Back in December we planned to split our month trip up by stopping in California to see our family and also take Covid Tests before traveling over to Hawaii. We partnered with Mazda USA on this trip to get one of their newest model cars (Mazda CX-5) to drive up the scenic route to Malibu. We have been to Malibu many times and this was the first time we actually were going to stay at Calamigos Guest Ranch! My best friend was supposed to get married at Calamigos almost a year ago, and then well you know that story. We decided to still stay at the resort and highlight the property while in town. I personally think there is no where better to stay in Malibu right now then Calamigos Guest Ranch. The entire area is a private 250 acre ranch with all types of animals and the perfect place to escape city life to feel safer. Below is everything you need to know!

How to get there:
We flew into LAX airport and picked up our Mazda rental. This car was perfect for a family with two car seats in the back and we were able to get 2 large checked bags, and two carry on, plus several backpacks into the trunk. From LAX, Malibu is about 40 minutes up the coast.


Where to stay:
Calamigos Guest Ranch: A luxury private resort in Malibu. We stayed in an Estate Suite, which has its own private pool area. I loved that these rooms fit two kings comfortably! I have never stayed in a room that had two king size beds side by side! I also loved how spread out the resort was and that you could walk to several different pool sections. As a Guest at Calamigos you also have access to their exclusive beach front club.


What to do:

  • Malibu Wine Hikes with Kurt: This is a family friendly easy 2 mile hike around the Malibu property. If your kids are older, look into the safari tour where you can be chauffeured on a vehicle!
  • Bliss Beach Picnic: This was one of my favorite days and set ups on the beach in Santa Monica. They have several locations.
  • Calamigos Beach Club: If you are staying on property at Calamigos Guest Ranch, the resort offers a free shuttle to this private beach area.
  • Malibu Pier: Take the kids down here to walk and explore the area. Make sure to grab breakfast at Malibu Farm Cafe!
  • Horse Back riding: We did this one year and It will always be my favorite a sunset. Several places nearby offer horse back riding!



Where to eat:

  • The Malibu Cafe– on property at Calamigos Guest Ranch. Due to Covid they are allowing you to order takeout and then dine in the grass, enjoy the cornhole and ping pong games with the kids.
  • Malibu Farm Cafe: On the Pier, enjoy the views and frose!
  • Nobu Malibu: Our favorite of all Nobus! Amazing food and views. Book 30 days in advance!

Malibu Cafe Naps
Mazda Rides down PCH

We loved having the Mazda car rental available at all times to scoot around town. My favorite feature of the car was the bluetooth radio and the fact the sunroof went all the way back for fresh air. The ride was so smooth. Thanks Mazda USA for the ride around town and Calamigos Guest Ranch for having us! We can’t wait to schedule another visit soon!

travel

Cabo Travel Guide

January 21, 2021

One place that is worth the hype is Cabo San Lucas! We had never traveled to that side of Mexico and I am so glad we finally did. It is a short flight from California, but from the east coast it does take a connection and roughly 8 hour travel time depending where you are coming from. With the new announcements from the CDC for international travel during Covid I am providing below the latest up to date info!

The view from El Farralon Restaurant at Waldorf Pedregal

Steps to Getting there:

The CDC just announced new guidelines for international travel, which you can read more here. I am happy to report most luxury accommodations are providing on site testing for Covid at the resort for your return travel to make it as smooth as possible if traveling with family or small children. This is from the CDC site for Mexico: “Before you travel, get tested with a viral test 1-3 days before your trip. Do not travel if you are waiting for test results, test positive, or are sick. Follow all entry requirements for your destination and provide any required or requested health information. Before traveling back to the United States, get tested with a viral test 1-3 days before travel. Follow all destination and airline recommendations or requirements.”

Where to Stay:

Waldorf Astoria Los Cabos Pedregal – Waldorf Astoria Los Cabos Pedregal offers guests access to COVID-19 testing through the resort’s medical partners which can be done onsite or at a partner medical facility. As guests have different needs and requirements, the resort’s Personal Concierge team can arrange for the appropriate test based on guest needs. The price of the test varies depending on timing and types of test required but currently an antigen (rapid) test is $158 USD with results expected within 24 hours. Details can be found on resort’s Health & Safety page. Additionally, the Los Cabos Tourism Board is working alongside the public and private sector to ensure all international travelers visiting Los Cabos are able to access and take the viral test ahead of their return to the USA. The Tourism Board is also working with the Los Cabos International Airport and several airlines to streamline this process and provide a pleasant travel experience to all tourists visiting the destination during this time.

  • 5 star Luxury Resort: From the moment we arrived we were whisked away by their drivers into an epic welcoming to something I can only describe as what felt like the Amalfi coast in Mexico. I was blown away by the architecture of the hotel and the fact we were on the side of a cliff. The rooms all have infinity pools and a private little beach area. The chips & Guac + spicy margaritas were the best I’ve ever had in my life!

    Here are some more bullet points straight from the resort I thought highlighted key things:
  • Work From Paradise: Boasting residential-style accommodations such as Multibedroom Casitas, Villas and Private Pedregal Homes, Waldorf Astoria Los Cabos Pedregal offers the perfect ‘home away from home’ for travelers seeking to get away will staying connected to work and remote learning for an extended period of time. Featuring every amenity found in a luxury residence (including private plunge pools, expansive terraces, separate living and dining rooms, etc.), travelers can “work from paradise” or take advantage of the resort’s new weekly Spanish Baja Cultural Immersion program (sample schedule here), Waldorf Astoria Los Cabos Pedregal makes it easy to relocate for a week-month with the Escape Longer package which also offers a week free for every month booked. Images of residential-style accommodations and property here.
  • Private Passport to Pedregal — Private Jet Partnership: As privacy continues to be the new luxury in 2021, Waldorf Astoria Los Cabos Pedregal is thrilled to partner with Schubach Aviation, a Southern California based private jet charter and aircraft management service, to offer an exclusive package that includes a roundtrip flight with Schubach Aviation into Cabo San Lucas’ International Airport (MMSL) from anywhere in the U.S., seven-night stay in a Two Bedroom Ocean View Villa, daily breakfast in-residence, and more. Rates starting from $25,896 USD++ taxes and service charge per stay. Images of jet and property here.
  • Beyond The Beach: Curated Exploration Itineraries: Those looking to be outdoors in the fresh air can enjoy any one of the resort’s “Beyond the Beach: Curated Exploration” itineraries which include everything from swimming with whale sharks, 4×4 adventures to Baja’s best kept secret of Xanadu, snorkeling with sea lions in Baja’s Sea of Cortez, hailed as the finest UNESCO conservation effort, and beyond. Custom itineraries here and images here.

Where to eat:

  • El Farralon: Located at the Waldorf Astoria Pedregal Los Cabos. This is one dining experience you don’t want to miss. The restaurant sits on the cliffs of the pacific ocean and the food is amazing.
  • Cocina Del Mar– Located at Esperanza Resort. Another amazing cliff side dining experience that is layered seating up the cliff. We did the new moon dining experience which was a 3 course meal.
  • Nobu Los Cabos- You can’t go wrong with any Nobu in my opinion. This is one of favorite luxury restaurant chains, the Nobu Los Cabos one did not disappoint and neither did the views at sunset!
  • Malibu Farm– also located at the Nobu Hotel, best to brunch here! Get the frose drink!
  • Flora Farms: This is a must before heading to the airport! It is a great brunch and lunch spot, they have a playground and ponds on site for the kids to run around as well. Loved stopping here!

What to do:

  • Go on a Boat Tour: Pelican Cabo does private luxury sailing around the island
  • Book multiple tours with Cabo Adventures here: The include swimming with whale sharks, Camel Safari rides, Outdoor ziplining, and luxury sailing tours.
  • Explore the bars and shopping downtown: There were so many areas we wanted to check out including the Office, and bar scene but we had the kids!
  • Relax on the beaches and pools: Cabo is one of those spots that is unsafe to go into the ocean from the beach due to the break of the waves and rocks.
travel

Maui Travel Guide

December 31, 2020

We just got back from spending the entire month of December in Maui Hawaii and all I can say is I am having withdrawals already :(! Traveling right now is your own independent choice, but we personally never felt safer than in Hawaii due to the fact anyone traveling to the island has to have a Negative Covid test. I work remote, and my kids are virtual learning so it just felt like the right time to make this trip. Also we live in North Carolina since everything is shut down I wanted the kids to be able to be active outside and learn by exploring new areas! Below is everything you need to know about planning a trip to the Island right now (Also giving away a free RT flight to hawaii over on my instagram here if you want to enter, closes Jan 5th!)


How to get there:

  • Fly into OGG airport for Maui. We chose to fly Hawaiian Airlines due to the fact they have their own Covid testing kits they mail to you, and they also just set up drive thru testing for their customers. You can read more on their site here. They also are still blocking middle seats. I did see American and other Airlines are starting to participate in Covid testing as well so just double check the airlines.
  • Hawaii Arrival Process: First step will be each adult needs to create a Safe Traveler profile on Hawaii Travel site here. On the site you will fill out all info on the trip, your info, and also upload your test results once complete. They will provide you with a QR Code that I suggest printing out as well or screenshotting in a folder on your phone for easy access. (Every airport/hotel will ask for this upon arrival).
  • Take a pre-travel test: forego the quarantine by taking a pre-travel test. The test must be from a state-approved testing provider. The test must be administered no more than 72 hours prior to the scheduled departure time of the final leg to Hawaii. For trans-pacific travel, test results must be received prior to flight departure.
  • Types of Tests: Since we flew Hawaiian we paid $90 per person (anyone under age 5 doesn’t have to take a test FYI) for their Vault Virtual testing. This test was a very simple saliva test and once complete you drop off at the nearest UPS. Because I was paranoid, I also opted to pay for the drive thru Nasal testing that was $119 per person with a 24 hour turnaround time on results. More info on both here.
  • Things to note: Best to do layover in a city that has these testing sites for ease of travel. We stopped in LAX. Also print out all documents and upload PDF into safe traveler site within 24 hours of departure. They didn’t check our paperwork till we got to Hawaii, so prepare to wait in the lines and have someone check all your documents upon arrival.

Now that you are in the clear, Where to stay:
Resorts VS Vacation Rentals:

  • Resorts: Wailea is mainly where all the luxury resorts are and this side of the island rarely rains! We had ONE rainy day the entire time, and it maybe lasted an hour? There are also resorts on the West side, Napili area, that are worth checking out if you are going to explore the island and prefer the hotel route. You can see all the ones we checked out and explored on my instagram highlights here & reels.

    Our all time favorite Resort was Four Seasons Maui, it was 5 star all around. Here is what I loved about it:
  • The rooms! We stayed in an Ocean View one bedroom suite. The rooms had two bathrooms, it felt bigger than normal apartments with a huge lanai. The doors also had cameras on them to see anyone knocking (that was a first).
  • The pools: 3 total, very spread out. An adults only with infinity, a family pool with TWO hottubs! and a kids pool with mini slide and waterfalls.
  • The Luxury feel: The service was top notch. The drinks were amazing, as well as all the restaurants and room service. We also saw several celebrities while on site so that is when you know its high class.
  • Kids Camp: It was daily and free! My kids lived there and it was such a relief for me to be able to work and enjoy the resort at the same time while they met other kids.
  • The beach/location: They have their own little beach area with SUP boards and snorkeling gear out front you can sign up to use.
  • Fitness: They have SUP work out classes and Beach Yoga I did one morning, so calming! (plus a gym and game room on site)

Vacation Rentals:

  • If you are staying long term I suggest looking into rentals that are more affordable and hoping around the island. I also loved being able to have a kitchen and do our laundry with small kids. We switched up airbnbs on the West side Napili Area and also rented a few in Paia. I only rent from superhosts because you know the reviews and guests don’t lie!

Where to eat (advanced ressys always, these were our favs!):

  • South Maui/ Wailea Area:
    (Four Seasons Maui)
    Ferraros Bar e Ristorante
    Spagos
    Duo Steak & Seafood
    (Andaz Resort)
    Ka’ana Kitchen
    The Feast at Mokapu Luau
    (Fairmont Kea Lani)
    Nicks Fishmarket
    Ko (sushi)
  • West Maui (Napili/Kanapali area):
    Merrimans- Drinks/sunset great
    AAroots- breakfast/Acai Bowls
    Cliff House at Montage
    Burger Shack-Lunch on the beach at the Ritz Kapalua
    (Lahaina Area)
    Honu Seafood & Pizza
    Leodas Pies
    Ululani’s Shaved Ice
    Oluwalu Juice Truck (fresh coconuts)
  • North Shore Maui (Paia/Haiku)
    Paia Fish Market
    Mamas Fish house
    Jaws- Road to Hana, good smoothies
    Garden of Eden- road to Hana, food truck!

What to do:

  • Sunrise Snorkel Tour: We booked this exact one here with Kai Kanani. I recommend doing this the first couple days of the trip since you are already adjusting to the time change anyways it will be easy to get up at 5am! The breakfast was amazing, you snorkel two spots and see turtles. We also were lucky enough to catch whales!
  • Nakalele Blowhole: West Maui, about 20 minutes from Napili area and a windy road. Hike down the mountain to see the rocks and water shoot through! Wear water shoes.
  • Northshore Zipline: This is in Haiku, North shore Maui. Family Oriented, ages 5+ and this was our kids favorite activity! Took about 2 hours and 7 courses.
  • Road to Hana: Start in Paia, this drive is windy and could take a full day if you make every stop. I paid $7 for this self guided app that was amazing since you loose service. It is called: Gypsy Guide in app store. We only made it to twin falls and Garden of Eden with small kids. I have a complete Road to Hana List Ill put together on another post someone sent to me as well!
  • Helicopter Tour: Book an epic experience with Hawaii VIP
  • The Feast at Mokapu (Andaz Maui)- The perfect luxury outdoor lu’au you can get in Wailea! They serve a 3 course meal and the kids are able to run around and play while you enjoy the show!
  • Haleakala National Park: Drive above the clouds at Sunrise by booking an appointment here or go at sunset no reservations needed!
  • IOA Valley National Park: A fun drive and day hike of exploring.
  • Rent a Cabana for a Pool day with the kids: We loved Fairmont Kea-Lani & The Ritz-Carlton, Kapalua for day passes!
  • Relax at the best beaches: For families I loved Baby Beach and Ho’okipa on the North Shore where you can also see turtles.

DM me on Instagram if you have anymore questions for your trip! Have so much fun!

travel

Key West Travel Guide

November 10, 2020

We just got back from a long weekend in the keys and we had just enough days to explore the tiny island off of Florida. We actually flew into Miami and took a yacht from there to key west (but if you’re sea sick I do not recommend, I was almost the entire time!). It takes about 7 hours via boat, but you can also drive an easy 3 hours to Key west from Miami as well. If you are not into either of those options, there is an airport in Key West you can fly directly into too. We were in town for a friends wedding, so it was a huge group of us that got to enjoy hanging out! Unfortunately Hurricane eta was headed our way on Sunday so we had to hightail it out of key west and fly home a day early. The weather the first couple of days was perfect in the mid 80s and sunny! Below is everything we loved about the island.

Where to Stay:

  • The Perry Key West Hotel: This hotel was the perfect spot right before you go into downtown key west on Stock Island. It is about 3 miles from Duval St (where all the restaurants/bars are) and it sits on a beautiful marina. We chose this location because this is also where all the wedding action was all weekend! You can see a map of the location here.
  • What we loved about the hotel: They have on site bikes, Vespas, and golf carts you can easily rent. There are two pools facing the Marina. The rooms have balconies, and we loved being on the ground floor to walk straight out to the pool. The food is amazing at their main restaurant Matt’s Stock Island!

Where to Eat:

  • Coffee/Croissants: Croissants de France, so good!
  • Breakfast/Brunch/Lunch: Banana Cafe, Blue Heaven (heard this place anytime actually), MoonDog Cafe, Two friends patio, Salute on the Beach, Thirsty Mermaid.
  • Snacks: Stop by the Raw Machine for Acai Bowl, or smoothies in coconuts!
  • Dinner: Santiagos, Cafe Sole, Latitudes
  • Dessert: Tip: Get Key lime Pie everywhere you go! Stop by Better than Sex, a dessert bar restaurant and I was told to not even have dinner before this the portions are huge and that good! We drove by it but didn’t have a night free to go. We also stopped by Wicked Lick Ice cream and loved it!
  • Bars: All of Duval St, they are all open till 4am.

What to do:

  • Water Activities: See all the ones the hotel has to offer here. I’d recommend renting a private sailing tour, going snorkeling, or renting jetskis! There are a few restaurants nearby that you can drink and also rent jetskis from as well.
  • Beach: There are several options but we heard Fort Zachary Taylor beach was the easiest to access, and Smathers Beach.
  • Shop/Day Drink: Head to Duval St and plan to walk/bar hop to all the spots!

Hopefully we make it back soon to Key West <3