The Hawaii Edit

The Itinerary

Hawaii has always been such a hot spot for our family for vacations. This was our 5th time on the islands now… and honestly just become tradition at this point.

And how could I NOT get everyone to dress up in matching outfits and keep the tradition going! 😂 😂 

🌺 Kauai, slow mornings and BIG nature

We started our trip in Kauai, staying at the Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort & Spa and truly, it felt like we walked into some paradise.

The property is expansive with lush gardens, koi ponds, waterfalls, and a pool complex that the kids still talk about btw. I LOVE that you can go from a beautiful oceanfront dinner to wet hair and flip flops in a short five min walk… so obviously the kids had a blast at the beach too. 😂 

We booked a couple activities ahead of time, one of them being surf lessons! Sooo much fun watching the kids get better and better each time they try. They’re actually getting more confident on those boards.

But the highlight has to be our second activity… a ride over the beautiful island of Kauai. 💫

This experience was AMAZING! A helicopter tour over the green mountaintops, and lush forests. We flew over lot’s of waterfalls including the world famous “Jurassic falls”. The views were just absolutely stunning… so surreal! It was a little nerve wrecking getting on a helicopter at first, especially because it was all our first time, but our pilot gave us the smoothest ride with all the info and history of the island. 100% recommend this as an outing!

🌼 Oahu, energy + history & NYE fun

2nd stop… Oahu. 🌴 

We and stayed at the iconic Moana Surfrider, also known as the “First Lady of Waikiki.” You know a place is going to be good, when they have their own nickname 🤣. And it lived up to it’s expectations!

Built in 1901 this property is ✨elegant✨ to say the least. Once inside, there’s this massive Banyan tree in the courtyard that feels like it’s seen a hundred years of stories. Our room overlooked the ocean, best way to wake up every morning. ☀️ 

What I loved most about Oahu, especially after the calming pace of Kauai, was how alive and walkable everything felt. Waikiki isn’t just a beach… rather its actually a hub. The International Marketplace is full of boutiques, buzzing cafés, and restaurants! You can stroll down to breakfast, browse shops with the kids, pop into some galleries, and still make it back in time for sunset on the sand… all by walking.

Theres sooo many beautiful trails in this island. We hiked Diamond Head, which is such a good family hike. Challenging enough to feel accomplished, but totally doable with kids. Oh and a lunch spot we really liked was Diamond Head Grill, so highly recommend. ☺️ 

We spent NYE at our hotel and it was sooo special✨. There was so much happening… live music, little booths set up around the property, fun activities for the kids. Honestly felt like its own little village celebration. Kai was literally awake the entire time 😂. I kept waiting for him to crash (especially with the time difference), but he is a party animal, I am convinced… and secretly impressed.

Such a different energy from our usual New Year’s, and honestly the most beautiful way to welcome a fresh start. Grateful for moments like that.

We didn’t make it to Lanikai Beach this trip (adding it to the list for next time 🤍), but if your kids are a little older, Pearl Harbor and the Polynesian Cultural Center are truly incredible experiences.

Both are such meaningful ways to learn about the history and culture of the islands, and I always love when we can weave in a little education while we travel. Makes it feel a bit more intentional, yenno?

Beauty Faves

These were my absolute staples the entire trip… not exaggerating, I used these every single day! 😅 

• Saie Cityset Ultra-Fine Setting Mist is a lightweight, alcohol-free mist that sets makeup for up to 16 hours while helping protect skin from environmental stressors like pollution and blue light. The ultra-fine spray practically melts into the skin, leaving a fresh, natural, skin-like finish without ever feeling tight or drying.

• Kopari Sun Shield On-The-Glow SPF 40 is a broad-spectrum mineral sunscreen in an easy glide stick format, making reapplication effortless throughout the day. Gives a subtle, non-sticky glow while protecting against UVA and UVB rays.

• Milani Color Fetish Matte Lipstick is a creamy, pigment-rich formula that gives full coverage in one swipe. Infused with nourishing ingredients, it gives a soft matte finish that doesn’t feel dry or heavy… perfect for all-day wear!

Fits of the Week

1. This is one of those outfits I reach for when comfort is top of mind! I’m wearing a super soft, fitted tank from Amazon that hugs in all the right places without feeling tight, and I paired it with my favorite Alo high-waisted pants. Love the elastic waistband, and the fabric has that luxe, structured feel that makes it look more elevated than your typical leggings. Linked here!

2. This swim look is one of my favorites! The swimsuit has a beautiful, supportive fit that smooths through the waist and gives you structure without feeling overly tight. Found this on amazon! And a lightweight cover-up that moves beautifully and gives just enough coverage to go from pool to lunch without needing a full outfit change. Add some oversized sunglasses, some simple jewelry and it feels very resort-ready! Outfit linked.

3. Okay this is one of my go-to summer formulas. I’m wearing a buttery soft Aerie bodysuit, it’s fitted and flattering, which makes it perfect for tucking into denim shorts or layering under anything. Topped it off with a baseball cap and aviators (from target for only $17) for that sporty look. This is such an easy outfit for travel days, running around with the kids, beach walks, or even a casual lunch. Everything is linked!